Getting Around Ravenna. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

Ravenna's public transport system is a local bus network operated by Start Romagna. This bus system connects the city center to residential areas, the train station, and the popular seaside resorts (lidos) like Lido di Ravenna and Marina di Ravenna.

The historic center’s main attractions are generally within walking distance of each other, making extensive bus use within the very core less needed for sightseeing.

Hubs & Ticketing

Main bus hub: Conveniently near the Ravenna train station (Piazzale Carlo Luigi Battisti). Many routes begin or pass through here.
Route maps are available at the bus station, tourist information offices, and sometimes at major bus stops. Digital maps like Google Maps integrate public transport schedules and routes.
Single-ride bus tickets are available from tabaccherie (tobacco shops), newsstands, or larger supermarkets Before boarding.
A single urban ticket costs around €1.30 - €1.50 if purchased in advance. On-bus purchase costs slightly more (€2.00-€2.50) and may need exact change.

Ticket Validation

It is imperative to validate your ticket immediately upon boarding the bus using the small electronic machine near the doors. Failure to validate your ticket can result in a fine, even if you bought it.

Hours & Frequency

Buses generally operate from early morning (around 5:30-6:00 AM) until late evening (around 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM). Service frequency varies by route and time of day. On Sundays and public holidays, service is often reduced.

Accessibility

Newer buses in Ravenna are generally accessible, featuring ramps for wheelchairs. However, older buses might still be in service and may not offer the same level of accessibility. The historic center’s uneven cobblestones can present challenges for mobility impairments.

Efficiency Tips & Fare Options

Navigating Efficiently

Purchase tickets in advance from a tabaccheria before you board. This is cheaper and faster.
Always remember to validate your ticket immediately upon boarding to avoid fines.
Use digital maps: Google Maps provides useful real-time bus schedules and route planning.

Fare Options

Single Ticket: Typically costs around €1.30 - €1.50 if purchased in advance.
On-Bus Ticket: Can sometimes be purchased directly on the bus, but they often cost slightly more (€2.00-€2.50).
Multi-ride tickets/passes: Daily or multi-day passes may be available for longer stays or frequent bus use. Inquire at the bus station.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Identification

White with "TAXI" sign on roof, meter inside.

Hailing

Cannot be hailed on street. Find at taxi stands (train station, Piazza del Popolo) or call.

Calling a Taxi

Radio Taxi Ravenna: +39 0544 33888. Hotel/restaurant staff can help.

Uber

Does not operate as traditional ride-sharing in Ravenna. Often Uber Black (licensed taxis) in major cities only.

Rental Options

Renting a car, scooter, or bicycle offers different levels of freedom to explore Ravenna and its surroundings.

Car Rental

Requirements: Minimum 18-21 years old (varies by company; surcharge under 25). Valid national driving license + International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU citizens. Major credit card needed for deposit.
Companies: Major international rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise) have offices at Bologna Airport (BLQ), Rimini Airport (RMI), and smaller branches in Ravenna.
Booking: Booking online in advance, especially during peak seasons, helps secure better rates and vehicle availability. DiscoverCars.com.
ZTL Reminder: Be aware of Limited Traffic Zones (ZTLs) in city centers. Driving into a ZTL during restricted hours without authorization results in a fine. Park outside the ZTL.

Bicycle & Scooter Rentals

Scooter Rentals: Available from specialized shops, notably in coastal areas (Marina di Ravenna) during warmer months. Valid motorcycle license (A) for larger, standard B (car) license for smaller (up to 125cc). Helmets are legally needed.
Bicycle Rentals: Ravenna is a very bicycle-friendly city due to its flat terrain. Several shops in the city center offer bicycle rentals for daily or multi-day use. Prices typically range from €10-€20 per day.
Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Seatbelts mandatory. No mobile phone use while driving (unless hands-free). Speed limits apply.
Parking: Restricted in ZTLs. Look for blue-lined paid spaces or underground garages. Always check parking signs carefully.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-friendly areas: Ravenna’s historic center is largely pedestrian-friendly. Many streets are reserved for pedestrians or have limited traffic, making it pleasant and safe for walking.
All major mosaic sites are within easy walking distance of each other.
Walking tour options: Numerous guided walking tours are available, often focusing on UNESCO sites or Dante’s connection. Self-guided tours are easy with maps/audio guides.

Bicycle infrastructure and safety: Ravenna is recognized as one of Italy's most cycle-friendly cities due to its flat landscape and good network of cycling paths.
While generally safe for cyclists, be aware of pedestrians in crowded areas and traffic outside dedicated bike lanes. Always lock your bicycle securely.
No-go areas for pedestrians and cyclists: No specific unsafe "no-go" areas. Exercise caution on busy roads where dedicated lanes may not exist.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Ravenna typically does not have hop-on-hop-off services due to its compact size and walkability. Main attractions are close enough to explore on foot.

Water Transport

Not applicable within Ravenna city center. Some boat excursions are available from the nearby coast (Marina di Ravenna, Porto Corsini) for trips along canals or into the Po Delta lagoons for nature viewing.

Other Transport

Cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport like tuk-tuks are not applicable to Ravenna, given its flat topography. Accessibility services are available for mobility needs at newer sites.

Walking & Cycling Advantages

Ravenna's compact size and flat terrain make walking and cycling ideal ways to experience the city.

Explore by Foot

Pedestrian-friendly streets and squares are common throughout the historic center, making it a joy to wander.
All major mosaic sites are located close to each other, allowing for easy walking between them.
Numerous self-guided walking tours are available with maps from tourist offices or via mobile apps.
Experience the city's charming atmosphere and discover hidden gems at a relaxed pace.

Cycling Through Ravenna

Ravenna is renowned for its flat landscape, making it a cycle-friendly city with minimal effort needed.
A good network of cycling paths and dedicated bike lanes provides safe and pleasant routes.
Cycle to nearby areas or even into parts of the Po Delta Regional Park for a natural escape.
Bicycle rentals are easily available from local shops for daily or multi-day use at reasonable prices.

Safety and Practical Tips

Pedestrian Safety

While generally safe, be aware of occasional scooter traffic on pedestrianized streets.

Use designated crossings.

Cycling Safety

Always use bike lanes where available. Be cautious in areas with mixed traffic and pedestrians.

Consider wearing a helmet.

No-Go Areas

No specific "no-go" areas are unsafe for pedestrians or cyclists in Ravenna.

Exercise common sense in all areas.

Navigating Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services

Licensed taxis are white and display a "TAXI" sign. They cannot be hailed on the street.
Find taxis at designated stands near the train station (Piazzale Carlo Luigi Battisti) and major squares like Piazza del Popolo.
Call Radio Taxi Ravenna at +39 0544 33888, or ask your hotel staff to call one for you.

Fares and Ride-Sharing

Taxi fares are metered, starting with a base fare. Surcharges apply for night service, Sundays, public holidays, or luggage.
Cash is always accepted and often preferred. Many taxis now accept credit or debit cards, but confirm with the driver beforehand.
Uber does not operate as a traditional ride-sharing service in Ravenna. Local apps for taxis may exist but calling or finding a stand is reliable.

Rental Vehicle Safety & Rules

Driving Laws & Conditions

Drive on the right-hand side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you use a hands-free system.
Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on main roads, and 110-130 km/h on motorways.

Parking & ZTL Awareness

Parking in Ravenna's historic center is highly restricted due to ZTLs (Limited Traffic Zones).
Driving into a ZTL during restricted hours without authorization results in a fine. It is better to park outside the ZTL.
Look for blue-lined parking spaces (paid) or utilize underground garages located just outside the ZTL.

General Transportation Tips

Ravenna's transportation options are varied, giving both convenience and opportunities for local immersion.

Optimal City Movement

Walking is the simplest and most enjoyable way to explore the historic center.
Cycling is a fantastic option for longer distances within the city or for exploring the surrounding flat areas.
The local bus network connects areas, including the train station and coastal resorts.
Trains are efficient for day trips to nearby cities like Bologna or Rimini.

Practical Considerations

Always validate bus tickets upon boarding to avoid fines.
If renting a car, familiarize yourself with ZTLs to avoid unexpected fines.
Taxis are readily available at designated stands or by calling a local service.
Utilize digital map applications for real-time navigation and public transport schedules.

Explore Countryside

Car rentals are ideal for exploring the Emilia-Romagna countryside, small villages, and areas not served by public transport.

Digital Navigation

Mobile apps simplify movement, helping with directions, public transport schedules, and finding local services.

Airport Transfers

Efficient connections from Bologna Airport to Ravenna by monorail and train. Taxis are available for direct service.

Accessibility & Specialized Transport

Mobility Needs

Newer public buses offer some accessibility features, including ramps for wheelchairs.
Some hotels and B&Bs provide accessible rooms; inquire directly when booking.
Ravenna's historic core, with cobblestone streets, can present challenges. Newer attractions and museums have accessible standards.

Unique Transport

Ravenna typically does not have hop-on-hop-off bus services due to its compact size and walkability.
Boat excursions are available from the nearby coast into the Po Delta lagoons for nature viewing, for recreational purposes.
Cable cars, funiculars, or other specialized local transport are not applicable to Ravenna's flat topography.

Navigating Ravenna

Ravenna's compact size and flat terrain make walking and cycling ideal for exploring the historic center and nearby attractions. Embrace the pedestrian-friendly streets.

For longer distances or coastal visits, the bus network is reliable. Taxis are available for convenience, and car rentals give flexibility for regional exploration, mindful of city center restrictions.

Getting Around Ravenna