Tours & tickets

Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

Marvel at the world-famous mosaics of Ravenna on a guided tour and learn all about their rich history. Enjoy tickets to 4 outstanding local landmarks and explore them in the company of an expert. Experience the best of the city in just one day with this insightful adventure. Starting from the convenient meeting point in Piazza San Francesco, journey through the streets of the city center with your guide to experience four incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the Basilica of San Vitale, the Neonian Baptistery. You will have the opportunity to visit: The Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo: originally used as a Palatine Church of Arianism, today it allows us to reconstruct the evolution of Byzantine wall mosaics from the age of Theodoric to that of Justinian. The Basilica of San Vitale: one of the most important monuments of early Christian art in Italy. When you enter the basilica, your gaze is captured by the high spaces, the wonderful mosaic decorations of the apse and the extraordinary representation of the imperial couple of Byzantium: Justinian and Theodora, with their procession. The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia: it was built around the middle of the 5th century, at the behest of Galla Placidia, who ruled the Western Roman Empire. The innumerable stars of the dome have struck the imagination and sensitivity of visitors over the centuries, and of outstanding personalities such as the great poet Dante Alighieri, who drew inspiration from them for the writing of some verses of the Divine Comedy. The Neonian Baptistery: one of the oldest monuments of the city, made of simple brick on the outside but rich in marble, stucco, and mosaics of clear Hellenistic-Roman influence inside. At the end of the tour the guide will accompany you to the entrance of the Archbishop’s Museum, so that you can visit it independently, each according to their interests and timing. Inside, in addition to many archaeological finds and works of art, is kept the last of the 5 UNESCO monuments included in the ticket, the Chapel of Saint Andrew, which with its depiction of the glorification of Christ is the only example of early Christian archiepiscopal chapel still intact to this day.

See more of Ravenna with a combo ticket for San Vitale and Sant Apollinare Nuovo, with an included visit to St. Andrew's Chapel inside the Archiepiscopal Museum. Check out the San Vitale, an octagonal 6th-century wonder that combines classic Roman and Byzantine architectural elements. Along its walls, stories from the Old Testament are depicted using thousands of tiny tiles to create intricate mosaics. Adjacent mosaics pay loyal tribute to Roman royalty – Emporer Justinian I and Empress Theodora. You can also visit the mausoleum of Galla Placidia (if option selected), dating from the first half of the 5th century which is not far from the Basilica of San Vitale. Visit the Sant Apollinare Nuovo, and in credible architectural feat erected by Ostrogoth king Theodoric the Great in the 6th century. The discreet Sant Apollinare Nuovo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with hidden treasures. Venture inside and discover floor-to-ceiling mosaics from the Byzantine era, once painted black by Pope Gregory the Great to keep parishioners focused on prayer, and reconstructed after damage from WWI. Find the oldest mosaic cycle related to the life of Christ. Witness the famous St. Andrew's Chapel. Discover evidence of the religious divide during the early Byzantine era that can be seen clearly at St. Andrew's Chapel, where more mosaics tell the story of important people and places of Ravenna. Learn why this site is dubbed the "hidden pearl" of the Archbishop Museum. As the private chapel for the bishops of Ravenna, it contains epigraphs, the Cathedral treasure, and an ivory throne of bishop Maximian. Witness the Neonian Baptistery, named after Bishop Neon, who continued its construction after his predecessor, Ursus. Inside, it stands out for the decoration of the entire mosaic dome dating back to the time of Bishop Neone.

Discover the world-famous mosaics of Ravenna on a small group tour led by an expert local guide. Visit UNESCO World Heritage monuments and learn about their rich history. All tickets are included to explore the stunning Christian and Byzantine mosaics. Meet your guide and small group to start your journey with a visit to Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, a stunning basilica known for its colorful mosaics and impressive architecture. See the mosaic panels in the nave of biblical stories from both the Old and New Testaments. Marvel at the craftsmanship and vibrant colors that bring these stories to life. Visit the Tomb of Dante, a national monument built in 1781 to honor the famous poet Dante Alighieri. Located next to the Basilica of San Francesco in central Ravenna, this site is full of history. Then, explore the Basilica of San Francesco's underwater mosaics, which reveal more of Ravenna's cultural treasures. Continue to the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a magnificent monument featuring early Christian art. This UNESCO World Heritage Site will enchant you with its mosaics on the walls and ceiling. The deep blue tones and intricate designs take you back to the 5th century. Admire the beautiful mosaic of the Good Shepherd, a symbol of the Christian faith. Next, visit the Basilica of San Vitale, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. The intricate mosaics covering the walls and ceilings will captivate you. Look for the apse mosaic of Emperor Justinian and his court and the stunning mosaic of Empress Theodora. The basilica's octagonal shape and tall dome showcase the architectural skill of the time. Conclude your tour with free time to discover the beauty and charm of Ravenna's city center. Your combined ticket also includes entry to the Neonian Baptistery and the Archiepiscopal Museum and Chapel, which you can explore on your own.

Our first stop is Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, a basilica that leaves visitors in awe with its vibrant mosaics and striking architecture. Originally built as a Palatine Chapel, it later became a place of worship. The mosaic panels lining the nave depict biblical scenes, showcasing stories from both the Old and New Testaments. Marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship and vivid colors that bring these narratives to life. One of the most iconic mosaics here is the Procession of the Magi, a stunning portrayal of the three wise men on their journey to meet the baby Jesus. Next, we make our way to the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a small yet breathtaking monument that showcases the beauty of Ravenna's early Christian art. Step inside this UNESCO World Heritage Site and be mesmerized by the shimmering mosaics that adorn the walls and ceiling. The deep blue hues and intricate designs create an ethereal atmosphere, transporting you back to the 5th century. As you explore the mausoleum, don't miss the remarkable mosaic depicting the Good Shepherd—a powerful symbol of the Christian faith. We then visit the Basilica of San Vitale, considered a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. As you step inside, you'll be captivated by the intricate mosaic designs covering the walls and vaulted ceilings. The apse mosaic, featuring Emperor Justinian and his court, is a sight to behold. It is matched in grandeur by the mosaic depicting Empress Theodora, which is equally breathtaking. The basilica's design, with its octagonal shape and towering dome, showcases the architectural prowess of the time. Finally, we will explore the Battistero Neoniano, known for its stunning early Christian mosaics. Admire the intricate design of the baptismal font and the magnificent ceiling mosaic, which illustrates the baptism of Christ—a vital Christian symbol. As we conclude our tour of Galla Placidia, Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, San Vitale, and the Battistero Neoniano, you will leave with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and cultural significance of these remarkable sites. Ravenna's mosaics are truly a feast for the eyes and stand as a testament to the city's rich history and enduring beauty. (The tour will also take place in case of rain). - Admission tickets (12,50€) not included, our guide will assist you with the purchase -

The main attractions, the most important monuments, the curiosities, the legends, the places frequented by the locals, the best restaurants, the typical dishes, and the anecdotes of people who have always lived in the city. These are the elements I would like to find in a tour when I travel and that is exactly what you will find inside this digital tour! What will you need for this tour: - Smartphone - Internet connection - Some energy! You will walk about 4 km but it is feasible regardless of athletic training (so the tour must be done moving through the streets of Ravenna and not just by phone). You can start the tour at any time: once purchased you will receive link and password to start your experience! Everything is going to be into GetYourGuide Voucher so read all the info!  Once purchased, the tour can be used for the duration of the booked day + 2 extra days so: no rush at all! During the tour, you can freely enter the monuments (entrance fees are not included) and spend as much time as you like on the various visits! Unlike standard tours where you have to run after a guide, the beauty of this experience is that you can decide whether to relax, read historical insights, or spend more time on food or views! The experience is totally in your hands!

A private Early-Christian and byzantine mosaics' raw beauty tour: Ravenna has eight Unesco monuments. During this two-hour tour we'll see the perfectly preserved mosaics from the 5th and 6th centuries when Ravenna became the capital of Holy Roman Western Empire. Later it became ruled by the barbarian king Teodorico and then it finally became the seat of the Byzantine prefecture in Italy. We will discover remarkable sarcophagi, learn the myth and reality of Ravenna's origins and Placidia: a prototype of faith and patronage of the arts. We'll find out the history and the munificence, intelligence and significance of Galla Placidia through a visit to the magnificent Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. We will also see the Basilica of San Vitale and the surprising and also surreal underwater mosaics of San Francesco church. In the afternoon l can organise a mosaic workshop for you if you want a longer customisable tour. Itinerary: (all the monuments are close together) -Sant'Appolinare Nuovo San Francesco church and Dante's tomb San Vitale Galla Placidia mausoleum (The private tour is customisable)

Embark on a journey through the heart of Ravenna, where history and flavor intertwine in the most unforgettable way. Begin your exploration with visits to the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the stunning Cappella di San Vitale, the serene Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, and the majestic Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, each a testament to Ravenna's rich cultural legacy. Then, let your taste buds take center stage as we dive into the city's culinary treasures, starting with the irresistible piadina served with locally cured salami and rich, creamy cheeses. Next, indulge in the region's iconic pasta dishes like cappelletti al ragù or the lighter vegetable-based sauce, each bite a celebration of Emilia-Romagna’s authentic flavors. And to cap it all off, treat yourself to Ravenna’s famous gelato at one of the city’s renowned gelaterias, an irresistible finale to a perfect day. This guided tour is more than just a walk through the past—it’s a chance to savor the best of Ravenna's history, culture, and cuisine. Join us for a truly delicious and memorable experience! Tickets are not included and cost €11.50 per person. We will assist you with the purchase when we meet at the meeting point. (The tour will also take place in case of rain)

The site is of outstanding universal value being of remarkable significance by virtue of the supreme artistry of the mosaic art that the monuments contain, and also because of the crucial evidence that they provide of artistic and religious relationships and contacts at an important period of European cultural history. In this way the Unesco World Heritage motivated why eight monuments of Ravenna had been added to the World Heritage List. The eternal beauty of the mosaics guarded inside some of the most famous Ravenna Unesco monuments, Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, Basilica of San Vitale, Battistero Neoniano and Chapel of Sant'Andrea. The visit that starts from Piazza San Francesco, into the city centre, and leads you to several Unesco monuments.

Discover Ravenna and visit the most significant monuments of the city on a walking tour. Join your private guide on a gentle stroll through ancient streets and learn about their rich history. Admire the early Christian and Byzantine mosaics, with tickets included. Meet your guide to explore what was the capital of the Western Roman Empire between the 5th and 8th centuries. Travel through local history, from the days of the Roman Empire to the Kingdom of the Ostrogoths, and finally, to the Byzantine Exarchate. Come across the traces of this intricate past, gathered in the splendid early Christian buildings and UNESCO monuments. Access the world-famous mosaics and marvel at their incredible designs. Gaze at the majestic Basilica of San Apollinare.

Ravenna was the capital city of the Western Roman Empire during the 5th century AD. It then served as the capital of the Kingdom of the Ostrogoths until it was re-conquered in 540 AD by the Byzantine Empire. Subsequently, the city formed the center of the Byzantine Exarchate of Ravenna until the invasion by the Lombards in 751 AD, after which it became the seat of the Kingdom of the Lombards. Although an inland city, Ravenna is connected to the Adriatic Sea by the Candiano Canal. It is known for its well-preserved late Roman and Byzantine architecture and features 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. On this 3-hour private guided tour of Ravenna, your expert guide will show you the most important treasures of the city. You'll explore some of its most famous sites and admire the stunning mosaics all around you. Marvel at the early Christian and Byzantine mosaics in the Basilica of San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the Battistero Neoniano, and the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo. Walk along the streets of the old town and stop to explore the picturesque Piazza del Popolo and the Dante area, or 'Area of Silence'. In fact, the exiled Florentine Dante died in Ravenna on 13 September 1321.