Ravenna with Kids
A Journey into History and Art
If you are traveling parents accustomed to exploring the world with your little adventurers, you might find the prospect of visiting Ravenna fascinating. This city is rich in history and culture, but it is important to note that it may not be the most suitable for very young kids. In this article, we will explore Ravenna with kids, through the eyes of traveling parents, focusing on the pace and needs of kids, and offering tips on how to make your trip to Ravenna a memorable experience for the whole family.
Ravenna with kids : A Family-Friendly Historical Adventure
Ravenna, located in the beautiful region of Emilia-Romagna in Italy, remains a captivating destination for families looking to share a cultural and historical experience with their kids.
This city, rich in history, art, and architecture, offers many opportunities for an educational and fun trip with little explorers.
Plan Your Itinerary in Ravenna with Kids
Ravenna offers a myriad of historical treasures, but many of these are archaeological sites or museums that may not be very interesting for young kids. Before you leave, plan your visit carefully, selecting attractions that might pique your kids’ interest and avoiding long periods in places unsuitable for kids or endless queues.
Ravenna can be very hot during the summer, so be sure to plan regular breaks to rest and cool down. Bring water and snacks for the kids and arrange to eat in a cool place during the hottest hours.
Despite its historical focus, Ravenna has some kid-friendly attractions. For example, you might visit the Via di Roma Park or take a walk in the city squares, where kids can play and run around. Visiting the mosaic monuments, such as the Basilica of San Vitale or the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, could intrigue kids with their vibrant colors and intricate designs.
Engaging Kids in Your Ravenna Adventure
Involve the kids in your historical adventure. Organize a treasure hunt to look for interesting details in the mosaics or the city itself. Ask them to draw or write in their travel diaries. At the info points, get a city map to make the kids feel part of the journey; seeing the route on the map can greatly reassure them.
Prepare a bag with games, books, or coloring notebooks where they can write down what they are observing.
Another important aspect is to explain to the kids exactly what they are observing and why you are there. Answer their questions and try to make Ravenna as kid-friendly as possible. Explain to your kids what to expect during the visit. Tell them that Ravenna is famous for its history and mosaics, and perhaps, once at home, organize an afternoon to recreate a mosaic with scrap materials.
If possible, plan your visit to Ravenna during the less crowded season to avoid long lines and make the experience more enjoyable for the kids.
Must-See Attractions in Ravenna with Kids
Depending on the age of your kids, needs may vary, but in any case, the points of interest are truly endless.
The Magic of Mosaics:
One of Ravenna’s most famous treasures is its extraordinary collection of mosaics, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These mosaics are found in ancient basilicas and mausoleums and are a major attraction for families visiting the city.
Basilica of San Vitale:
The Basilica of San Vitale is renowned for its mosaics that narrate religious and historical stories. Kids will be fascinated by the beauty and details of these artworks. Organize a treasure hunt to find interesting details in the mosaics.
Arian Baptistery:
The Arian Baptistery is another place to admire spectacular mosaics. Its circular shape and dome make it an intriguing site for a visit with kids. Have them look for animals and figures in the mosaic representations.
Mausoleum of Galla Placidia:
The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia is a small gem with mosaics covering the walls, ceiling, and floor. The vibrant colors and intricate designs will capture the kids’ attention as they explore this historical site.
National Museum of Ravenna:
This museum houses a vast collection of archaeological artifacts, including Roman, Etruscan, and Byzantine objects. The interactive exhibits and surprising artifacts will make learning about history fun for kids.
Visit the Squares and Gardens:
Ravenna is a pleasant city to explore on foot. Take a walk in squares like Piazza del Popolo and Piazza San Francesco, where kids can run and play. Public gardens like Via di Roma Park are great for picnics and relaxation.
Tastes of Emilia-Romagna:
Don’t forget to let the kids taste the culinary delights of Emilia-Romagna, such as homemade pasta and artisanal gelato. Encourage them to try local delicacies and explore the world of Italian flavors.
An Unforgettable Trip to Ravenna with Kids
Ravenna offers a unique experience for families looking for a cultural and historical vacation. Kids will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of breathtaking mosaics, discover ancient history, and enjoy the beauty of this Emilian city. Ravenna is the perfect place to share with kids the passion for culture and art while creating lasting memories of an unforgettable trip.
This city also has its own space in our famous “Free Things to Do in” series, so if you plan a visit, don’t forget to read the article on what to see for free in Ravenna with kids.
For more detailed information on museums and temporary exhibitions, visit the official Ravenna Tourism website.
In conclusion, while Ravenna may present a challenge for traveling parents with young kids due to its emphasis on history and culture, it is still possible to benefit from this experience. With the right precautions, you can make your trip to Ravenna a memorable family adventure. Your kids might not remember all the historical details, but they will surely appreciate the family time spent in such a fascinating city.
If you are in the area, you definitely shouldn’t miss a visit to Cervia and especially its nature reserve; I talk about it in detail here: the Saline di Cervia after the flood.
Have a great trip! ☀️🗺️
