Ravenna, the capital of the Province of Ravenna in Italy's Emilia-Romagna region, served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century and later the Byzantine Exarchate. Though an inland city, it connects to the Adriatic Sea via the Candiano Canal. Ravenna is globally renowned for its exceptionally preserved late Roman and Byzantine architecture, particularly its intricate mosaics, earning it the title 'Capital of Mosaics.' The city hosts eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Early Christian Monuments. With a population of approximately 156,000, it offers a compact, walkable historic center ideal for travelers seeking deep cultural immersion without the crowds of larger Italian cities.
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Stay in the historic city center to be within walking distance of the eight UNESCO-listed monuments, such as the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. This central location allows for easy access to the mosaic sites and the local culinary scene, minimizing transit time and maximizing exploration efficiency.
The compact nature of Ravenna makes it highly walkable, especially between the major monument clusters. While inland, the Candiano Canal provides scenic links to the sea. Local public transport is sufficient for reaching outlying areas, but the primary value lies in exploring the dense concentration of heritage sites on foot.
Spring and autumn offer mild weather ideal for walking between sites and appreciating the fine details of the mosaics. Summer brings more visitors but vibrant local energy. Winter is quieter, providing a serene atmosphere for those focused primarily on the architectural and historical significance of the monuments.
minor basilica in Ravenna, Italy
Byzantine-style minor basilica in Ravenna, Italy
mausoleum in Ravenna, Italy
church building in Ravenna, Italy
mausoleum
baptistery in Ravenna, Italy
church
minor basilica
church building in Ravenna, Italy
basilica in Ravenna
mausoleum in Ravenna, Italy
Italian amusement park
Situated in a village inland, this restaurant serves some of the best fish dishes in Romagna. The focus here is on classic recipes from the Adriatic with no unnecessary frills or innovations, all prepared using the freshest fish and including raw fish dishes, fried options, spaghetti with clams and fish barbecued over a wood fire.
WebsiteFish and seafood take centre stage at this restaurant facing the beach and its moored boats, with a menu that showcases classic specialities from the Adriatic, including fried options and daily specials in line with what’s available at Cesenatico fish market. The restaurant does not take reservations.
WebsiteChoose a table on the outdoor summer terrace (right over the water!) at this restaurant in order to best appreciate its location overlooking the picturesque canal port and its period houses. The indoor dining room is also attractive, with its open-view kitchen and modern and elegant feel, while the menu focuses almost exclusively on fish, often served with vegetables, some of which are organic. Enjoy a wide selection of raw antipasti to start (some simple in their preparation, while others are more elaborate), then choose from an array of beautifully presented, modern dishes, such as stuffed m
WebsiteSituated in a hidden corner of the historic centre, this small bistro-style restaurant has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with photos alternating with books, wine bottles and glasses on the walls (the wine list includes a few labels from elsewhere in Europe). Small tables set close together, warm, subtle lighting and an almost Parisian ambience make this a perfect choice for a romantic dinner or a meal with friends. There’s also a small outdoor space for fine weather but seats are limited, so it’s best to book ahead!
🕐 Su 12:30-14:30, Mo-Su 19:00-22:30
WebsiteA new adventure for skilful chef Agostino Iacobucci (his original restaurant of the same name is in Castel Maggiore), housed within a villa that food-enthusiasts will remember as the former home of the two-Michelin-star Magnolia. In this elegant and welcoming setting, resident chef Marco Garattoni demonstrates the precise culinary techniques acquired during his many years working in top-quality restaurants. His dishes are contemporary, always colourful, beautifully presented, pleasing and attractive, even mouthwatering at times, and mostly based on fish, with the addition of a few vegetarian a
WebsiteA reliable city destination for seafood, the venue welcomes guests in nautical-themed surroundings that evoke the interiors of vintage ships. The ingredients are fresh and fragrant, interpreted through tradition and then elevated in personal recipes: raw scallops with cannellini beans, onion, and rosemary; anchovy spaghetti with crispy bread and lemon; monkfish ossobuco. The wine list is complemented by a playful selection of cocktails and kombucha offered at the Bar counter. A maritime atmosphere and warm Romagnolo hospitality round out an experience that delivers on every front.
WebsiteIt is an unavoidable reference point in the gastronomic panorama of Ravenna and, as a matter of fact, it is almost always full! An "Historical Establishment of Italy", and rightly so considering that it has been run by the same family for over 100 years, this restaurant is a trattoria only in its name, given the blaze of art nouveau decorations inside. As regards the cuisine, you can expect regional dishes: truffles, succulent meats and local fish. In the dining room everyone is involved, while the young owner will illustrate the wine selection with the typically delightful congeniality of Rom
WebsiteThe sister restaurant of the Bologna and Milano Marittima restaurants of the same name, this osteria serves fresh fish with an excellent choice of delicious and generously portioned dishes. As the restaurant doesn’t take bookings, make sure you get here early in high season or during busy periods.
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