How to reach Ravenna
Flight time:
Flights to Ravenna involve landing at Bologna, the nearest major airport situated roughly 80km away.
From London, flights to Bologna take just over 2 hours, whereas it’s between 2.5 and 3 hours from other UK cities.
Transfer time:
Taking the train from Bologna Airport to Ravenna is easy. The speedy Marconi Express monorail service delivers passengers directly from the airport to Bologna’s central train station in around 12 minutes.
From there, it’s around 1.5 hours to reach Ravenna by train.
Alternatively, you can hire a car, with the drive taking just over an hour.
Price:
The Marconi Express to Bologna Centrale costs around €13 one-way, or €26 for a family ticket (up to two adults and three children).
Train fares to Ravenna start at €8, depending on the service.
A taxi directly from the airport to Ravenna could set you back as much as €200.
Best time to visit Ravenna
Ravenna holidays are a delightful experience, whatever the season. Embrace the hustle and bustle of this historic city on sun-soaked summer days, or head there during its cool, crisp winters for some quiet exploration.
April to June is peak tourist season in Ravenna. The weather is pleasantly warm, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 24°C. Rainfall is moderate, and you can expect up to nine hours of daily sunshine. This period is perfect for sightseeing without breaking a sweat.
July to August sees temperatures soaring to 30°C and beyond, making it a great time to enjoy the nearby Adriatic coast, or explore Ravenna’s cooler indoor attractions. Rainfall is rare, and there are about 10–11 hours of sunshine each day. These are the months when locals tend to take their own holidays, however, so you may find that a few businesses close during August.
September to November sees temperatures cool right down, ranging from 23°C to a mild 13°C by November. These months have a more relaxed feel, with fewer crowds and the odd rainy day. However, you’ll still get around 6–8 hours of sunshine.
December to March can be chilly, with temperatures dipping to around 5°C–10°C. This quiet period is great if you prefer to explore at a calmer pace. Rainfall is moderate, and sunshine is limited to about 4–5 hours, but it’s a cosy time to discover Ravenna’s wonders.
Practical information
Spoken languages: Italian is the primary language spoken in Ravenna. English is generally understood, but knowing a few Italian phrases will certainly be appreciated by the locals.
Local habits and customs: Italians in this part of the country are warm, but respect and politeness go a long way. Remember that lunch is often a leisurely affair, and that many shops and restaurants tend to close in the afternoon (typically between 1 pm and 4 pm). Dinner also starts later than in the UK, so don’t expect restaurants to fill up before 8 pm.
Currency: Italy uses the Euro. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, having some cash is useful for smaller businesses. You’ll also find ATMs throughout the city.
Getting around: Ravenna is ideal for walking or cycling, but you’ll find that the city also has a reliable bus service for longer trips. You can purchase a 60-minute pass for around €1.50 or a 3-hour pass for €7.50. Bikes can be hired for about €10 a day, and taxis are also available. Trains to nearby cities like Rimini and Bologna run regularly, with tickets starting from €5.
Electricity and plug types: Italy uses European two-pin plugs (220 volts), so remember to bring a travel adaptor for your UK devices.
Time zone: Ravenna is on Central European Time, which is one hour ahead of GMT.
