Ravenna (For Bologna) Cruises, Italy
The city of Ravenna serves up historical sights and ancient artwork in droves. It’s the gateway to Bologna – one of Italy’s prettiest cities. Bologna gets its good looks from red-brick buildings, medieval towers and arcaded streets. Plus, it’s known for its top-notch food scene, which is no mean feat in a country that’s famed for its tasty cuisine. You can take trips to San Remo from here, too – this place packs in everything from a 150-year-old casino to a postcard-perfect harbour.
- Tuck in to a bowl of spaghetti bolognese in Bologna – this popular dish was invented here. And, you can wash it down with a glass of local sparkling red wine.
- Climb the 498 steps to the top of the Asinelli Tower. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over Bologna’s terracotta rooftops.
- Get lost in the twisty, narrow lanes of San Remo’s old town. It sits on a hilltop, so the cobblestone paths lead to some of the best views around.
SHORE EXCURSIONS View all excursions
Bologna and Ravenna
You get two cities for one on this excursion, which takes you on walking tours of Bologna and Ravenna. Things start off in Bologna, where you’ll stroll from piazza to palazzo in the terracotta-topped city centre. Gothic Italian architecture is on show at the Basilica of San Petronio, and you’ll have time to grab a bowl of signature Bolognese ragu from a restaurant. Next, you’ll head back towards the coast to the city of Ravenna. There’s more old-school architecture on the cards here, as you embark on a walking tour past the Basilica of San Vitale and the Church of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo – famous for its Byzantine mosaics. You’re close to the port here, so the drive back to the ship won’t take long.