Ravenna is a wonderful base for exploring northern Italy. It sits between Venice and Bologna, on the coast, and close to some of the country's best food and art. Here are the day trips that work, and how to choose.
Venice
The lagoon city is the obvious choice, and the cities complement each other: both share an Adriatic past and a love of mosaic. Saint Mark's basilica in Venice drew on Byzantine models, and visiting it after Ravenna is a revelation. The journey takes about two to three hours each way, either by train with changes or on a coach excursion. A tour from Ravenna handles transport and a canal ride, but it is a long day. If you can, stay overnight in Venice.
Bologna
About an hour or more by train, Bologna is the capital of Emilia-Romagna, known for its porticoes, medieval towers, university and food. Tortellini, mortadella and ragu all have their roots here. It is an easy and rewarding day trip, and many visitors do it the other way round, visiting Ravenna from Bologna.
Ferrara
A Renaissance city with a moated castle, wide streets and a calm atmosphere. It is great for cycling along the old walls. Travel from Ravenna typically involves a change, so allow enough time. Combine it with the nearby Comacchio lagoon town for a different feel.
The Po Delta
North of Ravenna, the Po Delta regional park is a vast wetland of lagoons, reedbeds and sandbanks, a paradise for birdwatchers. Flamingos and herons are common in season. Guided boat trips and cycling routes are available. It is best with a car or a tour.
Adriatic beaches
The lidos of Marina di Ravenna and its neighbours are a short ride away, and in summer they are an easy afternoon trip. Combine a morning of mosaics with a swim and a seafood dinner.
Classe and the pine forest
Closer to home, the southern side of the city rewards a half-day: the Classis Ravenna museum, the basilica with its green apse mosaic, the Mausoleum of Theodoric and the Pineta di Classe. Cycling is ideal.
Hill towns and the interior
Romagna's hills hold towns such as Brisighella and Dozza, both known for medieval centres and wine. Dozza has painted walls and an mural festival. They are best reached by car or a private day tour, which often include a tasting.
By train
Regional trains connect Ravenna to Bologna, Ferrara and the Adriatic coast, though many routes involve a change at an intermediate station. Check timetables in advance and note the last return service. Buy tickets at the station or from machines and validate them if required.
By car
A car helps for the Po Delta, the hill towns and San Marino, but the centre of Ravenna is restricted. Pick up a hire car at the edge of town. Parking in Venice is expensive and impractical, so use a train or tour for that destination.
With children
The beaches, the wildlife park and the pine forest are easy options. Venice is a long day for small children. Bologna and Ferrara work better if you keep the walking short and plan gelato stops.
Which one first?
If this is your first Italian trip, Venice or Bologna gives the most famous payoff. If you have been before, Ferrara and the Po Delta feel quieter and more local. Pick the day with the best weather for the outdoor options and keep the museum days for rain.
San Marino and the Marche
Further south, the tiny republic of San Marino and the cliff-top fortress of San Leo are dramatic stops, though they make for a long day. A guided trip or a rental car is the practical way.
Choosing and planning
Match the trip to your time. With one day, choose Venice or Bologna. With two, add Ferrara. For nature, the delta. For beaches, the coast. Check train timetables, since regional services have changes, and book coach tours in advance during peak season. Start early, bring water and keep a buffer for your return.