Ravenna, Italy

Ravenna is world-renowned for its collection of late Roman and Byzantine mosaics, which are protected as UNESCO World Heritage sites. The most breathtaking examples are found within the Basilica of San Vitale, an octagonal church celebrated for its stunning depictions of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora.

Just steps away is the small but mesmerizing Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, famous for its deep blue ceiling mosaics that create a celestial, starry sky effect. Another must-see is the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, which features two long mosaic-covered walls depicting processions of martyrs. All these sites are located in Ravenna's compact city center, about a 20-30 minute drive from the cruise port.

You can also visit the tomb of the famous poet, Dante Alighieri, who spent his final years in Ravenna.

Beyond Ravenna's immediate sights, several fascinating destinations are accessible for a day trip. The city of Bologna, a culinary capital famous for its historic university and extensive porticoes, is about an hour to 90 minutes away by train or car.

Another popular excursion is to the Republic of San Marino, one of the world's oldest and smallest republics. Perched on a mountaintop, it offers stunning views and a unique medieval atmosphere, located approximately a 75-minute drive from the port.

The Renaissance city of Ferrara, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its imposing Este Castle and well-preserved city walls, is also about a 75-minute drive and offers a captivating journey into Italy's rich history.

The Ravenna cruise port, known as Porto Corsini, is not located in the historic center of Ravenna but rather on the Adriatic coast. It is situated approximately 12-15 kilometers (about 8-9 miles) from the city's main attractions. Due to this distance, walking to the city center is not feasible for cruise passengers.

Transportation from the terminal to the city is required. Cruise lines nearly always arrange for shuttle buses (either complimentary or for a fee) to transport passengers to a central point in Ravenna. Taxis are also available at the pier. The cruise terminal itself is a modern facility primarily designed for processing passengers, with limited amenities such as shops or restaurants directly at the pier.

The official currency in Ravenna is the Euro (€). US dollars are not accepted for transactions, so it is necessary to obtain Euros. ATMs, known locally as 'Bancomat', are widely available throughout the city center and offer the best exchange rates.

Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are commonly accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases at cafes, markets, or for paying for public transport.

Ravenna is considered a very safe city for tourists, with low rates of violent crime. Visitors can comfortably explore the historic center independently. The primary safety concerns are petty crimes like pickpocketing, which can occur in crowded tourist areas, particularly around major mosaic sites and on public transportation.

It is advisable to remain aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure and out of sight, and be cautious of unsolicited offers. There are no specific areas to avoid within the main tourist zones. General travel precautions are sufficient for a safe and enjoyable visit.

Ravenna experiences a humid subtropical climate, with the main cruise season from spring to autumn offering pleasant weather. Spring (April-June) is mild and comfortable, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (60°F to 77°F). Summer (July-August) is typically hot and humid, with temperatures often rising above 30°C (86°F), making sun protection essential.

Autumn (September-October) remains warm and is an ideal time to visit, though rainfall can become more frequent as the season progresses. Passengers visiting in the summer should pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat. For spring and autumn sailings, it is wise to bring layers and a light jacket or umbrella for cooler evenings or potential rain showers.

The cruise port is located in Porto Corsini, approximately 12-15 km from Ravenna's city center, making transportation necessary. Cruise lines typically provide shuttle buses to a central drop-off point in the city, which is the most convenient option for most passengers.

Public transportation is also an option. The local bus company, Start Romagna, operates bus line 90, which connects Porto Corsini with Ravenna's train station and downtown area. Taxis are available at the port terminal, but they are more expensive than the bus or shuttle. Once in Ravenna's historic center, all the main attractions are within easy walking distance of each other.

The best shopping in Ravenna is concentrated in its pedestrian-friendly historic center, especially along streets like Via Cavour, Via Diaz, and around the main square, Piazza del Popolo. These areas are filled with a mix of high-end boutiques, well-known Italian brands, and charming local shops.

A unique souvenir to look for is mosaic art, with many workshops and galleries selling pieces inspired by the city's famous Byzantine masterpieces. Other local specialties include gastronomic delights from the Emilia-Romagna region, such as regional wines, prosciutto, and the local flatbread known as piadina. Prices in shops are generally fixed, and bargaining is not a common practice.