Ravenna: Mosaics and Food Guided Walking Tour with Tastings

Explore the captivating city of Ravenna through this 3-hour guided walking tour that combines breathtaking mosaic sites with a delicious taste of local cuisine. Led by a local licensed guide, this experience offers an engaging mix of history and gastronomy, making it ideal for travelers eager to see UNESCO World Heritage Sites and sample Emilia-Romagna’s regional flavors. With a price of $61.75 per person, the tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into Ravenna’s artistic and culinary heritage.

While the tour includes entrance tickets at $12.50, it emphasizes street food tastings and regional specialties, making the experience both cultural and flavorful. Its accessible design and flexible booking options are appealing for visitors seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of Ravenna.

This tour suits those interested in art, history, and authentic Italian food, and is especially recommended for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a balance of sightseeing with tasting. The tour takes place rain or shine, ensuring a reliable way to enjoy Ravenna regardless of weather conditions.

Key Points

• Includes visits to iconic mosaics sites like San Vitale, Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, and Sant’Apollinare Nuovo.
• Guided by a local, licensed expert who explains the history and stories behind each site.
• Food tastings feature regional specialties such as piadina, pasta dishes like cappelletti al ragù, and Ravenna’s famous gelato.
• The tour lasts 3 hours with a carefully curated itinerary on foot, starting and ending at Sant’Apollinare Nuovo.
• Tickets and tastings are included in the price, with admission tickets paid separately at $12.50.
• Accessible and suitable for most travelers, with rain or shine scheduling.

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Starting at Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo

The tour kicks off outside Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, where the guide waits near a column with palm trees. This historic basilica marks the beginning of a rich exploration of Ravenna’s artistic treasures. The guide provides context about the basilica’s importance and sets the tone for the day’s focus on mosaics and regional culture.

Visiting Ravenna’s UNESCO Mosaics: San Vitale and Galla Placidia

One of the key highlights is the opportunity to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Basilica of San Vitale greets visitors with its impressive mosaics and Byzantine art, while the Mausoleo di Galla Placidia offers a serene atmosphere filled with stunning, centuries-old mosaics. The guided tours inside these sites reveal details about their history and the craftsmanship behind the mosaics.

Walking Between the Historic Gems

Between the major sites, the tour includes short walking segments—7 and 8 minutes—allowing guests to appreciate Ravenna’s charming streets and hidden corners. These brief strolls keep the pace lively and give a chance to see some of the city’s lesser-known spots loved by locals.

Tasting Traditional Ravenna Street Food

Along With sightseeing, the tour features food stops that showcase regional specialties. A local bakery serves street food such as piadina topped with locally cured salami and rich cheeses. These tastings give a genuine flavor of Emilia-Romagna’s culinary traditions.

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Exploring Local Culinary Specialties

Later, the group visits a local restaurant for more regional dishes, including pasta options like cappelletti al ragù and lighter vegetable-based sauces. Each bite highlights the authentic flavors that define Ravenna’s culinary scene. The gelato at SBRINO® Gelateria provides a sweet finale, perfectly capturing Ravenna’s famous dessert culture.

The Art of Mosaic Making and Repair

An added highlight is the opportunity to visit an artist studio where mosaics are made and repaired. This behind-the-scenes glimpse reveals the craftsmanship and dedication that go into preserving Ravenna’s mosaics, enriching the overall experience.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour begins at the column outside Sant’Apollinare Nuovo and ends at the same location. It is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a variety of travelers. The live English-speaking guide ensures clear explanations and engaging storytelling throughout the tour.

Booking Flexibility and Weather Considerations

Booking options include reserve now and pay later with full flexibility—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour takes place rain or shine, so travelers can count on a dependable schedule regardless of weather.

Why This Tour Is a Strong Choice for Travelers

What truly sets this tour apart is the seamless blend of history and food in a manageable 3-hour format. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the sites more meaningful. The inclusion of food tastings adds a fun, informal element without overshadowing the main focus on Ravenna’s mosaics and historic landmarks.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience

This tour best suits art lovers, history enthusiasts, and foodies who want a well-rounded taste of Ravenna’s cultural and culinary landscape. It appeals especially to those who prefer guided explanations and appreciate local insights into lesser-known spots.

Final Thoughts on the Ravenna Mosaics and Food Tour

With stellar reviews and a perfect 5/5 rating from 22 reviews, this tour offers remarkable value for its price of $61.75. It balances art, history, and culinary delights, providing an engaging way to experience Ravenna in a short time.

While it emphasizes street food and mosaic sites, visitors interested in full access to all sites will need to purchase tickets separately. The guided approach ensures clarity and context, enhancing the enjoyment of Ravenna’s artistic masterpieces.

This tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a rundown that doesn’t skimp on local flavor or cultural depth. It’s a practical, enjoyable way to see Ravenna’s top sights while tasting some of the best food the region has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance tickets included in the tour price?
Entrance tickets cost $12.50 per person and are paid separately. The tour includes guiding and tastings.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with dietary restrictions?
Travelers should inform the guide in advance about any food allergies or dietary restrictions. The tour is not suitable for vegans or those with gluten intolerance.

What is the tour duration and starting time?
The tour lasts about 3 hours. Availability varies, so it’s best to check specific starting times when booking.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.

What makes this tour stand out from others in Ravenna?
The focus on both mosaics and local cuisine, combined with a knowledgeable guide and local artist studio visit, offers a rich, well-balanced experience that many other tours don’t provide.

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