Nestled in the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy, Ravenna is a historical gem known for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and rich cultural tapestry. Despite its relative quiet compared to Italian powerhouses like Rome or Florence, Ravenna is a must-visit for travellers interested in history, art, and authentic Italian life.
But many first-time visitors ask: How do you get to Ravenna, Italy? While Ravenna doesn’t have its own commercial airport, it’s surprisingly accessible thanks to Italy’s well-connected transportation system. Whether you’re coming by air, train, car, or cruise, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best way to get to Ravenna, Italy efficiently and affordably.
Getting to Ravenna by Air
Does Ravenna Have an Airport?
Ravenna itself does not have a major international airport, but it is well-served by several nearby airports. The most convenient ones include:
Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ)85 km (53 miles) from Ravenna | Rimini Federico Fellini Airport (RMI)60 km (37 miles) from Ravenna | Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)150 km (93 miles) from Ravenna | Florence Airport (FLR)160 km (99 miles) from Ravenna |
Bologna Airport is the most popular and practical option for international travellers heading to Ravenna. It offers direct flights from major cities in Europe and has regular shuttle services, buses, and trains connecting to Ravenna—making it arguably one of the best ways to get to Ravenna, Italy.
Getting to Ravenna by Train
Travelling by train in Italy is efficient, scenic, and cost-effective. Ravenna has a well-connected train station (Stazione di Ravenna) served by Trenitalia, the national railway company—often considered the best way to get to Ravenna Italy for convenience and comfort.
Major Cities with Train Routes to Ravenna
| From | Duration | Transfers | Notes |
| Bologna | 1.5 hours | Direct | Most common route |
| Florence | 2.5 to 3 hours | 1 transfer | Scenic route through Tuscany |
| Venice | 3 to 4 hours | 1 to 2 transfers | Can connect via Ferrara or Bologna |
| Milan | 3 to 4 hours | 1 to 2 transfers | Fast trains to Bologna, then regional |
| Rome | 4.5 to 5.5 hours | 1 to 2 transfers | Long, but doable in a day trip |
Booking Tickets
Use the Trenitalia or Italo websites or apps to book tickets in advance. Prices vary based on time, date, and train type. Regional trains are cheaper but slower, while Frecciarossa and Frecciargento high-speed trains cost more but save time.
Driving to Ravenna
For those who prefer flexibility and a road trip through Italy, driving to Ravenna can be a great option especially if you’re exploring nearby regions.
Key Highways and Routes
- From Bologna: Take the A14 motorway (Autostrada Adriatica) south to Ravenna (1 hour 15 minutes)
- From Florence: Drive northeast via A1 and E45 (about 2 hours 30 minutes)
- From Venice: Follow SS309 Romea along the coast (2.5 hours)
Parking in Ravenna
Ravenna’s city centre is largely pedestrian-only, but there are many parking lots around the perimeter. Look for:
| Parcheggio Piazza della Resistenza | Parcheggio Largo Firenze | Parcheggio Giustiniano |
Arriving by Cruise or Ferry
Ravenna is becoming a popular cruise stop, particularly for Mediterranean itineraries.
Porto Corsini – Ravenna Cruise Port
Cruise ships dock at Porto Corsini, about 10 km (6 miles) from central Ravenna.
Transport from the Cruise Port to the City
- Shuttle Bus: Many cruise lines offer free or paid shuttles into the city.
- Taxi: Around €20–€30 one-way
- Public Bus: Bus line 90 or 60 (less convenient for those with luggage)
If arriving by cruise, give yourself a full day to explore the city’s artistic and historic offerings.
Best Time to Travel to Ravenna
Ravenna can be visited year-round, but your experience will vary depending on the season.
- Spring (April–June): Ideal weather, fewer crowds
- Summer (July–August): Hot and busy, especially with beachgoers
- Autumn (September–October): Pleasant temperatures, fall festivals
- Winter (November–March): Quieter, good for museum visits
If you’re combining Ravenna with a beach holiday, summer might be your pick. For history and art lovers, spring and autumn offer the best balance.
If you need further information on our must-see guide on when is the best time to visit Ravenna, click here!
Conclusion
Now that you are on this part of our guide, you can now make informed decisions on how you can get to Ravenna, Italy. Although Ravenna may seem tucked away, it’s easy to reach thanks to Italy’s extensive train network and proximity to major airports like Bologna. Whether you fly into northern Italy, take a scenic train ride, or arrive by cruise ship, you’ll find that the best way to get to a destination is often part of the adventure itself.
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