Weekend in Ravenna

Ravenna's main square, flanked by two Venetian-style palaces and a clock tower. It's the social hub, with benches under arcades and a central fountain.

Tip: Grab a coffee from Caffè del Popolo (€1.50 at the counter) and people-watch. Free Wi-Fi is available in the square from the municipal network.

Ravenna's main square, lined with Venetian-style arcades and two stone lions. The 16th-century clock tower and the Palazzo del Municipio dominate the space.

Tip: Sit on a bench by the fountain with a takeaway coffee from Caffè Letterario on the corner. The square comes alive at aperitivo hour (around 6pm) when locals gather.

A self-guided walk through the historic centre to spot modern mosaic murals on buildings, walls and pavements – a legacy of the city's Mosaic school.

Tip: Start at Piazza del Popolo, head north along Via Cavour. Many pieces are on private walls – just look up. Maps at tourist office or download a free PDF from Ravenna Turismo.

A small neoclassical monument holding the bones of the poet. In a quiet churchyard next to the basilica where he was excommunicated.

Tip: Free and open-air. Visit in early evening when the light hits the marble. Pair with the Dante Museum (€3) across the street for context.

Housed in a former Benedictine monastery, this museum displays Roman and Byzantine artefacts, mosaics, and medieval armour. Free entry on the first Sunday of each month.

Tip: The cloister garden is a peaceful spot to rest—few tourists find it. Check their website for free day dates if you're on a tight budget.

6th-century Byzantine church with world-famous mosaics depicting Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora. Entry to the church is free; the attached museum and mausoleum require a combined ticket.

Tip: Arrive before 9am to avoid crowds. The mosaics are best seen in morning light filtering through the apse windows.

A large, peaceful park on the edge of the historic centre with walking paths, a lake, and playgrounds. Perfect for a picnic break from sightseeing.

Tip: Bring your own lunch – there are few cafes nearby. The park is quiet on weekday afternoons.

Ravenna's main square, surrounded by Venetian-style palaces and cafes. It's free to walk through and the best spot to watch local life go by.

Tip: Stop at Caffè del Popolo for the best espresso in town – cheap and proper Italian. Arrive around 6pm for the evening passeggiata.

The oldest surviving monument in Ravenna, built in the late 4th century. The ceiling mosaic depicts Christ's baptism with the River Jordan personified as a man pouring water from a

Tip: The baptistery is small – you can see the entire ceiling mosaic in under 15 minutes. Best to visit late afternoon when the sunlight hits the dome directly.

A small cross-shaped chapel with the oldest and finest mosaics in Ravenna. The deep blue starry ceiling is breathtaking. Part of the same site as San Vitale.

Tip: It's included in the combined ticket with San Vitale. Stand in the centre to see how the mosaics change colour as natural light filters through alabaster windows.