Piazza Maggiore with big clock and blue sky in Bologna, Italy
ADVENTURE RAGÚ

Cruise to Bologna (Ravenna), Italy

The off-the-path Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy offers adventure for every taste. Explore the ancient town of Ravenna, best known for the seemingly endless Byzantine mosaics adorning its churches and monuments. Plus a powerhouse collection of eight UNESCO sites. Or venture to nearby Bologna to wander its portico-lined streets teeming with medieval relics— not to mention some of Italy’s most delectable cuisine. In this part of Italy, you can do a bit of it all. From sunning along the beaches of Punta Marina to engine revving at the Lamborghini Museum, and catching cutting-edge modern art at the MAMbo to taking a hands-on lesson in Bolognese cooking.

Things To Do in Bologna (Ravenna)

Le Due Torri, two famous leaning towers Garisenda and Asinelli in Bologna, Italy

DYNAMIC DUO

Le Due Torri, two famous leaning towers Garisenda and Asinelli in Bologna, Italy

Le Due Torri, two famous leaning towers Garisenda and Asinelli in Bologna, Italy

DYNAMIC DUO

Stand in awe before the twin leaning towers of Le Due Torri. One stands shorter than the other, and both were featured in Dante’s famous Inferno poem. If you dare, climb 500 tapered, wooden steps to the tower’s top for sweeping views of Bologna’s red-roofed skyline.

View of San Petronio Basilica in Bologna, Italy, the largest church built of bricks

MIDDLE OF EVERYWHERE

View of San Petronio Basilica in Bologna, Italy, the largest church built of bricks

View of San Petronio Basilica in Bologna, Italy, the largest church built of bricks

MIDDLE OF EVERYWHERE

The heart of Bologna lies in Piazza Maggiore, where you can explore centuries-old Renaissance palazzi. Enter gigantic San Petronio Basilica, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. Visit Neptune’s statue before setting out on foot around town— most of the best sights are within walking distance of the piazza.

Ancient mosaics on a ceiling in the mausoleum of Galla Placidia near Bologna, Italy
Ancient mosaics on a ceiling in the mausoleum of Galla Placidia near Bologna, Italy

HISTORY PIECED TOGETHER

Discover one of the world’s most impressive collections of 5th and 6th-century mosaic artwork in Ravenna. Many buildings sprawled across the city are decked out in colorful mosaics, from the Basilica of San Vitale and Mausoleum of Galla Placidia to Battistero Neoniano and the Domus of the Stone Carpets.

Delicious spaghetti bolognese served on a black plate in Bologna, Italy
Delicious spaghetti bolognese served on a black plate in Bologna, Italy

LOCAL CUISINE

Bologna is foodie heaven, nicknamed La Grassa (The Fat One) after its rich culinary legacy. For a quick bite grab a piadina, classic Romagna flatbread. The city is widely known for its spaghetti Bolognese (meat sauce) and tortellini en brodo (stuffed pasta in broth). Afterward, treat your sweet tooth to organic gelato— and be sure to fill your glass with sparking red Lambrusco wine.

Different traditional and cheeses and ham at a shop in Bologna, Italy
Different traditional and cheeses and ham at a shop in Bologna, Italy

SHOPPING

The most popular souvenirs in Ravenna are replicas of its famous mosaics, which can easily be shipped home. Stop by Eataly for olive oil, vinegar and artisanal pasta. In Bologna you’ll find hundreds of small shops selling cheese, chocolates and other locally made foodstuffs. Via San Felice’s stores are best for clothing and artwork.

Insider's Tips
Insider's Tips
1 Buy a combo ticket package for entry into five of Ravenna’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
2 Cars are banned in Bologna’s city center during daytime hours, but scooter and motorcycle traffic is heavy, so be careful when crossing roads on foot.
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