2-Hour Private Mosaic Tour

2-Hour Private Mosaic Tour, rated 5 across 16 traveller reviews.

Overview

Two hours with a professional guide, walking between three of Ravenna's mosaic monuments, is the shape of this private tour. You meet at the Basilica San Vitale ticket office on Via Giuliano Argentario and set off on foot, with the guide leading the group through the Byzantine mosaics inside San Vitale, the Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, and the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo. Along the way the tour also touches on the tomb of Dante and the private chapel of the Ostrogothic King Theoderic as part of the wider story of the city.

Reviewers describe a guide who knows the historical and geographic background of the mosaics and brings them to life, and one reviewer said their guide had studied art history and lived her life in Ravenna, which added a great deal to the visit. Another reviewer reported being given plenty of time to enjoy the mosaics and take photos, with all questions answered along the way. Comments about the city's schools, architecture, restaurants and even the local market also appear in one review, so the tour is not only about the monuments.

The tour suits travellers who want a focused visit rather than a full day, and departure timings are available across the day. Admission tickets to the monuments are not included and are bought separately, so factor that in when planning.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at San VitaleMeet the guide at the Basilica San Vitale ticket office, Via Giuliano Argentario 22, in central Ravenna.
2. Basilica di San VitaleTwenty minutes inside the basilica to study its mosaics. Admission ticket not included.
3. Mausoleo di Galla PlacidiaA five minute stop at the mausoleum. Admission ticket not included.
4. Basilica di Sant'Apollinare NuovoThirty minutes at this basilica to study its mosaics. Admission ticket not included.
5. End in the city centreThe tour ends in the city centre of Ravenna.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will help you get the most from this walk.

• Tickets are separate. Admission fees to the monuments are not included in the tour price. Budget for them in addition to the tour itself.
• Bring questions. One reviewer said the guide took time to answer all their questions, and several describe a guide who knew the historical and geographic background well. This is a tour where asking pays off.
• Photo time. One reviewer said they were given plenty of time at each site to enjoy the mosaics and take photos.
• Moderate fitness. The listing asks for a moderate level of physical fitness. It is a walking tour through the city centre, so comfortable shoes make sense.
• Timing and pace. One reviewer called the length of time perfect for a short visit. Choose from departure timings across the day when booking.
• Children welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult, according to the listing. The private format means only your own group takes part.

Common issues. Admission tickets to the three monuments are extra. One reviewer reported that another couple joined what was booked as a private tour, so there is some inconsistency on that point. The route is on foot and a moderate fitness level is required. Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund, with no refunds or changes accepted inside that window.

Common Questions