Ravenna: Private Tour of Mosaics & Byzantine Art
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Overview
Ravenna Private Walking Tour. Discover the dazzling heart of early Christian and Byzantine art. This private tour takes you through Ravenna's stunning mosaics and historical sites with an expert guide.
Explore the Basilica di San Vitale, a masterpiece of Byzantine art. See the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, famous for its beautiful mosaics. Visit the Battistero Neoniano (Neonian Baptistery) and the Arian Baptistery to witness the evolution of early Christian art. The tour also includes the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, showcasing remarkable Byzantine mosaics.
This private guided tour ensures a personal experience. It excludes entrance fees, private transportation, and food and drinks. Enjoy a deep dive into Ravenna's rich history and culture with a licensed guide.




Highlights
Exclusive Private Experience: Enjoy a personalized tour with just your group and a dedicated guide.
Expert Local Guide: Learn about the history and art of Ravenna from a licensed professional.
Iconic Byzantine Sites: Visit the Basilica di San Vitale and other UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Breathtaking Mosaics: Witness the stunning beauty of Ravenna's world-famous mosaics.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers highly appreciate the in-depth knowledge and personalized experience provided by the guides, particularly regarding Ravenna's historical mosaics, while some suggest improvements regarding tour length and fee inclusivity.

Customers loved the guides' knowledge and passion for Ravenna's history.
Many reviewers highlighted the beauty and detail of the mosaics.
Several customers mentioned the tour was a great way to see the key sights of Ravenna.
Guests appreciated the personalized attention of a private tour.
Some reviewers found the tour duration a bit long for their preferences.
A few guests wished entrance fees were included in the tour price.
The Journey
Basilica di San Vitale
Step into the Basilica di San Vitale, a jewel of Byzantine art and architecture in Ravenna. Marvel at its octagonal design and the breathtaking mosaics that adorn its walls and dome, depicting biblical scenes, Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora, and intricate geometric patterns. Completed in 547 AD, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning testament to the splendor of early Christian art and the enduring power of faith. Its luminous mosaics, crafted from millions of tiny colored glass tesserae, create an otherworldly atmosphere that transports visitors back to the golden age of the Byzantine Empire.
Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
Discover the serene beauty of the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Ravenna, Italy. Built in the 5th century for the Roman Empress Galla Placidia, this small but exquisite structure is renowned for its stunning mosaic decoration. Step inside to be enveloped by a deep cobalt blue dome studded with golden stars, creating a celestial atmosphere. The mosaics depict Christian symbols and scenes with remarkable artistry, offering a glimpse into the early days of Christian faith and the imperial patronage that shaped Ravenna's artistic heritage. This intimate space offers a profoundly moving and unforgettable experience.
Battistero Neoniano (Neonian Baptistery)
Immerse yourself in the sacred light of the Neonian Baptistery, one of Ravenna's oldest and most dazzling monuments. Constructed in the 5th century, this octagonal baptistery is a jewel of early Christian art. Its magnificent mosaic dome depicts the baptism of Christ by John the Baptist, surrounded by the twelve apostles. The lower levels are adorned with intricate stucco work and marble decorations. Located near Ravenna's cathedral, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a profound glimpse into the rituals and beliefs of early Christianity. Be transported by the beauty and spirituality that permeate this ancient sanctuary.
Arian Baptistery
Experience the Arian Baptistery, a small but spiritually resonant sanctuary in Ravenna. Though modest in size, it possesses a remarkable mosaic ceiling depicting the baptism of Christ by John the Baptist, surrounded by the twelve apostles. Constructed in the late 5th or early 6th century by the Arian Ostrogoths, it reflects their distinct theological interpretations. Its intimate atmosphere and the artistry of its mosaics offer a captivating glimpse into the religious and cultural landscape of Ravenna during the early medieval period. This UNESCO World Heritage site provides a unique perspective on the diverse expressions of Christian faith.
Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo
Enter the majestic Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, where a shimmering river of saints, prophets, palaces, and miracles unfolds before your eyes. This 6th-century church, originally built by the Ostrogothic King Theodoric, is adorned with an extensive and enchanting mosaic narrative that stretches across time and eternity. Witness the stunning processions of male and female saints, depictions of Christ's miracles, and vibrant scenes from the Old and New Testaments. These mosaics, among the best-preserved examples of Byzantine art, offer a visual storybook of the Christian faith, inviting you to contemplate the enduring power of belief and the artistic legacy of Ravenna.
Know Before You Go
This private guided tour includes a licensed guide who will lead you through Ravenna's historical sites. Entrance fees to the sites, private transportation, and any food or drinks are not included. Please arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. The tour does not include any pickup or drop-off services.
Hot Tip
Many visitors suggest wearing comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Consider bringing water, especially during the warmer months, to stay hydrated throughout the tour.