MileHacker Logo
Where to Stay in Ravenna

Where to Stay in Ravenna

Ravenna Emilia Romagna And San Marino, Italy Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Urban & Traditional Stays

  • Hostels

    Ravenna has hostels, limited compared to larger cities. They suit budget travelers, often with dormitories and private rooms. They offer a social atmosphere.

  • B&Bs (Bed & Breakfasts)

    Bed & Breakfasts are popular. They deliver a personal and charming experience, frequently in renovated historic buildings. Many are family-run.

  • Guesthouses (Affittacamere)

    Similar to B&Bs, guesthouses are usually smaller, often family-run establishments. They deliver comfortable and authentic stays.

  • Hotels

    Ravenna has a range of hotels, from budget-friendly to upscale. Most are in the city center or near the train station.

Unique & Specialty Lodging

  • Agriturismi (Farm Stays)

    Located in the surrounding countryside, agriturismi deliver a rural experience. They often feature traditional architecture and local food.

  • Relais & Châteaux

    High-end properties in the surrounding Emilia-Romagna region belong to this prestigious collection, delivering luxurious and unique stays.

  • Palazzo/Residenza d'Epoca

    Some historic residences convert into upscale boutique lodging. These properties deliver a grand setting with period furnishings.

  • Vacation Rentals & Apartments

    Widely available through platforms like Vrbo, these options feature self-catering facilities. They suit families or groups.

Neighborhood Guide

Ravenna’s various neighborhoods present different advantages for visitors. Choose an area that aligns with your travel style and priorities.

Historic Center

Pros: Walkable & Immersive
  • Charming pedestrian streets, ancient buildings, picturesque squares.
  • Lively atmosphere with cafes, restaurants, and shops.
  • Walk to all major mosaic sites.
  • Good bus access within the city.
Cons: Parking & Noise
  • Can be noisy, especially in main squares.
  • Parking is difficult and expensive.
  • Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) restrictions apply.
  • Accommodation prices are generally higher.

Near Train Station

Pros: Transport Hub
  • Excellent transport links for arrivals, departures, and day trips.
  • Often has more budget-friendly lodging options.
  • Still a short, walkable distance to the historic center.
  • Practical base for travel.
Cons: Transit Zone Feel
  • Less charming or picturesque than the historic core.
  • Can feel more like a transit zone than a destination.
  • Traffic noise possible.
  • Fewer traditional cafes.

Coastal Lidos

Pros: Beach & Relaxation
  • Beach resorts with a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Lively nightlife during summer months.
  • Ideal for visitors prioritizing sea and sun.
  • Good for families looking for beach activities.
Cons: Commute to City
  • Requires daily commute to Ravenna's historic center for sightseeing.
  • Commute takes approximately 20-30 minutes by bus or car.
  • Can be very quiet or have limited activity during the off-season.
  • Parking challenges during peak beach season.

Safety and Proximity

Safety Guidelines

All areas mentioned (Historic Center, Train Station area, Coastal Lidos) are generally safe for tourists. The historic center and train station area are well-lit and active at night. Observe standard precautions against petty theft.

Noise Levels & Ambiance

Historic Center: Can be lively with cafes and evening strolls. Quieter side streets are available. Train Station Area: Moderate noise from traffic and trains. Coastal Lidos: Lively in summer with beach clubs, very quiet in off-season.

Booking Strategies

Plan your accommodation booking with these tips for Ravenna to find suitable options.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (June-August): Book 3-6 months ahead. Prices are highest.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Book 1-3 months ahead. Good selection, competitive prices.
  • Low Season (November-March): Booking a few weeks ahead is sufficient. Most flexibility and lowest prices.
  • Popular properties or vacation rentals should be secured early.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Utilize major online travel agencies (OTAs) for wide selections of hotels, B&Bs, and apartment rentals. Booking.com and Agoda are popular.
  • For hostels, Hostelworld specializes in budget options.
  • Checking direct websites of unique B&Bs or agriturismi might yield better rates.
  • Direct booking directly supports the local business.

Policies & Fluctuations

Deposit and Cancellation Policies
  • Policies vary significantly by property and the booking platform.
  • Always carefully review deposit and cancellation policies before confirming.
  • Many properties provide free cancellation up to a certain point.
  • This flexibility helps with trip planning.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Accommodation prices are higher during summer (high season).
  • Prices are also higher around major Italian holidays (e.g., Easter, Christmas).
  • Prices drop considerably in the winter low season.
  • This period delivers better value for budget-conscious travelers.

Negotiation Insights

Walk-in Rates

Negotiation for walk-in rates is generally not common in Italy, especially at established hotels.

Cash Discounts

Small, independent B&Bs might offer a slight discount if paying cash in the low season and booking directly, but this is not guaranteed.

Expectation Management

Do not expect negotiation as a guaranteed practice. It is not a common custom.

Accommodation Recommendations

Find suitable lodging for your budget and travel preferences in Ravenna.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Budget Options

Ostello Dante: Near train station, offers dorms and private rooms. It is clean, basic, and budget-friendly. Hostelworld is a good resource. B&B Via Dante: Often centrally located, good value, clean rooms, family-run.

  • Look for deals on Booking.com for B&Bs.
  • Consider Agoda for Asian-focused options.
  • Prioritize cost and convenience.
  • Experience a family-run establishment.
Mid-Range Comfort

Hotel Centrale Byron: Excellent central location, comfortable rooms, classic Italian style. Provides a base for exploring. Palazzo Galletti Abbiosi: Beautifully restored historic palace close to attractions. Comfortable lodging with elegance.

  • Centrally located for easy access.
  • Enjoy classic Italian design.
  • Lodging with a touch of elegance.
  • Suitable for balanced budgets.

Luxury & Family-Friendly

Luxury Stays

NH Ravenna: Modern hotel close to the train station and a short walk to the historic center. Comfortable rooms, good amenities, reliable service. Palazzo Bezzi Hotel: Upscale boutique hotel in a historic building, centrally located. It blends comfort with a refined atmosphere. Consider IHG Hotels for certain luxury brands.

  • Modern comfort with city access.
  • Historic ambiance with refined service.
  • High-end amenities for a premium experience.
  • Centrally located options.
Family-Friendly Picks

Apartment Rentals: Often the best choice for families. They have more space, separate bedrooms, and kitchen facilities. This Vrbo options allow for self-catering. Hotels with Connecting Rooms: Inquire directly with mid-range or higher-end hotels for connecting rooms.

  • More space than a standard hotel room.
  • Kitchen facilities for self-catering.
  • Privacy for families.
  • Suitable for longer stays.

Solo & Long Stays

  • Solo Traveler Choice

    B&Bs deliver a personal and welcoming atmosphere compared to larger, anonymous hotels. Hosts often share useful local advice.

  • Long-Stay Rentals

    Apartment Rentals: The best choice for stays exceeding a week or for those planning a month or more. They provide kitchen facilities, laundry access, and a more "home-like" feel. Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique long-term arrangements.

  • Residences/Aparthotels

    These properties deliver serviced apartments with kitchenettes and sometimes hotel-like amenities, suitable for extended stays.

  • Exploration Freedom

    Longer stays in apartment or residence settings offer freedom to explore Ravenna at a leisurely pace.

Culturally Rich Lodging

  • Historic Significance

    Many B&Bs and boutique hotels are in renovated historic buildings within the city center. These accommodations create an unique ambiance.

  • Palazzo Style

    Look for properties in former noble palaces. These places create an unique ambiance and sense of grandeur.

  • Ancient Structures

    Accommodations in ancient structures close to main mosaic sites deliver a distinct sense of history and an immersive stay.

  • Central Locations

    Seek lodging near Piazza del Popolo or the main mosaic sites, often housed in former noble palaces or ancient structures.

Agriturismi for Families

Rural Getaway

If traveling with a car, an agriturismo in the surrounding countryside offers an excellent experience for families. They feature open spaces and often have seasonal pools. Children enjoy outdoor activities and farm experiences.

  • Open spaces for children to play.
  • Seasonal pools for summer fun.
  • Outdoor activities for all ages.
  • Farm experiences for learning.
Local Food & Peace

Agriturismi often feature traditional architecture and local food, sometimes produced on-site. They deliver a peaceful environment away from the city bustle. This creates a chance to explore the region’s agricultural heritage.

  • Traditional architecture ambiance.
  • Enjoy local, sometimes on-site, food.
  • Peaceful environment for relaxation.
  • Explore agricultural heritage.

Camping & Outdoor Options

Coastal Locations

Several campsites are located along the coast near Ravenna (Lido di Ravenna, Marina di Ravenna). These sites suit outdoor or beach-focused holidays.

Accommodation Types

Campsites offer pitches for tents and RVs, as well as bungalows or mobile homes. They provide diverse options for outdoor enthusiasts.

Seasonal Availability

These sites are mainly open during the warmer months, typically from spring to early autumn, catering to peak season visitors.