Find and book ferry tickets to and from Ravenna
An iconic view of Ravenna
Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.
Reaching Ravenna's Shores
Ravenna is well-connected to major Italian cities, with regular train services from Bologna (about 1 hour), Venice (2.5 hours), and Florence (2 hours). If driving, the A14 motorway provides direct access to the city, with ample parking available near the ferry terminal. For international travelers, the nearest major airports are Bologna's Guglielmo Marconi Airport and Venice's Marco Polo Airport, both offering shuttle connections to Ravenna. Local bus services connect the city center with the ferry terminal, running frequently especially during summer months. For those with vehicles, secure long-term parking is available at the port area, though booking ahead is recommended during peak season.
Ravenna: Italy's Byzantine Jewel by the Sea
Ravenna stands as a testament to Italy's rich historical tapestry, boasting the finest collection of Byzantine mosaics outside of Constantinople. This enchanting coastal city in Emilia-Romagna combines artistic splendor with seaside charm, making it an ideal ferry destination for travelers seeking cultural depth. As you wander through Ravenna's historic center, the glittering gold of ancient mosaics contrasts with the laid-back atmosphere of this surprisingly uncrowded Italian treasure.
When to Experience Ravenna at Its Finest
Ravenna enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. May to June and September to October offer ideal conditions with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, perfect for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage sites without crowds. Summer months (July-August) bring warmer weather ideal for combining cultural visits with trips to the nearby beaches of the Adriatic coast. Winter visits have their own charm, with the Byzantine mosaics glowing warmly in the soft winter light. Ferry services operate most frequently from April through October, with reduced schedules during winter months, though main routes maintain regular service.
Maritime Connections from Ravenna
Ravenna serves as an excellent gateway to several captivating Adriatic destinations. Regular ferry services connect to Split, Croatia (approximately 8 hours), offering access to Dalmatia's stunning coastline and historic cities. Ferries to Greece reach Igoumenitsa (about 15 hours) and Patras (20 hours), opening doors to the Greek mainland and island-hopping adventures. The route to Durres, Albania (about 10 hours) reveals a less-traveled but increasingly popular Mediterranean gem with pristine beaches and mountain landscapes. The Ravenna-Venice maritime route provides a unique perspective on Italy's northeastern coastline, with opportunities to witness the famous lagoon from the water.
Unforgettable Experiences in Ravenna
Ravenna's UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches house the world's finest mosaics, with the Basilica of San Vitale and Mausoleum of Galla Placidia offering transcendent artistic experiences that have inspired visitors for centuries. Just minutes from the historic center, Marina di Ravenna provides golden sand beaches perfect for relaxation before or after your ferry journey. The city's culinary scene celebrates Emilia-Romagna's gastronomic heritage – try the local piadina (flatbread) filled with squacquerone cheese and arugula, or indulge in seafood pasta at restaurants near the port area. The charming pedestrian zone around Via Cavour invites leisurely exploration, with artisan workshops selling mosaic souvenirs crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
Ravenna's Hidden Stories
Ravenna holds the distinction of being the capital of the Western Roman Empire during its final years, and later served as the capital of the Ostrogothic Kingdom and Byzantine Italy. The tomb of Dante Alighieri, Italy's greatest poet, lies in Ravenna where he spent his final years in exile from his beloved Florence. Remarkably, Ravenna's famous mosaics have survived for over 1,500 years with their original colors intact, thanks to the unique glass-making techniques that produced the millions of tesserae (small tiles) that compose them. The city's unusual inland port connects to the Adriatic via the Candiano Canal, a vital maritime link since Roman times when Augustus established a naval fleet here.
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