Hi everyone, I’m TomFromRavenna! I live in Ravenna, a beautiful city full of history and culture, famous for its stunning mosaics and historical sites. Working in the hospitality industry, I’ve gained a lot of insight into the needs of cruise passengers coming to and from our port. After giving it some thought, I’ve decided to share what I believe are the best solutions for cruises embarking and disembarking from Ravenna’s port. I’ve helped many travelers enjoy their stay here, and I’m happy to answer any questions or provide advice—feel free to reach out!
 

Airports: Easy Access to Ravenna

There are several airports you can consider when planning your trip to Ravenna. Here’s a breakdown of the most accessible ones, ranked by ease of travel from each airport to Ravenna:

 

1) Bologna Airport (BLQ)

• Distance from Ravenna: About 87.8 km, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.
• International destinations arriving: Bologna Airport offers many international connections, especially within Europe.

2) Venice Airport (VCE)

• Distance from Ravenna: About 239 km, approximately 3 hours by car.
• International destinations arriving: Venice Marco Polo Airport serves numerous international destinations, mainly in Europe, and is a major gateway for international travelers arriving in Italy.

3) Milan Airport (MXP)

• Distance from Ravenna: About 300 km, approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes by car.
• International destinations arriving: Milan Malpensa Airport is one of the busiest in Italy, offering a wide range of international flights arriving from around the world.

Reaching Ravenna: Transport Options

Once you’ve chosen your arrival airport, it’s time to decide how to reach Ravenna. Whether you prefer to travel by car, train, or private transfer, there are several convenient options available depending on the airport you’re flying into.
 

By Train:

Traveling by train is a popular and scenic way to reach Ravenna from different airports. Here’s how you can travel from the major airports:

From Bologna Airport:

• Take the Marconi Express from the airport to Bologna Centrale train station.
• Once at Bologna Centrale, take a regional train to Ravenna. The train ride typically takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.

From Venice Airport:

• Take the Mestre Express bus from the airport to Mestre station.
• From Mestre, take a train to Ravenna. There are multiple train options, but all require at least one transfer as there are no direct trains to Ravenna.

From Milan Malpensa Airport:

• Take the Malpensa Express from the airport to Milan Centrale station.
• From Milan Centrale, take a train to Ravenna. There are no direct trains, so you will need to change trains at least once.
   by Car:Renting a car at the airport is a great way to get to Ravenna, as all major airports offer car rental services on-site. This option gives you the freedom to explore and enjoy the Italian countryside at your own pace. Driving in Italy can be an authentic experience, and navigating through the charming roads and landscapes is a true adventure. However, it’s important to note that driving in Italian traffic can be a challenge, especially during peak periods.Be mindful of the time of day and the season, as certain routes and highways can get quite congested. What may seem like a one-hour drive could easily turn into a three- or four-hour journey due to heavy traffic, particularly during holidays or rush hours. So, while renting a car offers flexibility, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and be prepared for potential delays.

Reaching Ravenna by Private Transfer

If you’re looking for the most comfortable and stress-free way to reach Ravenna, booking a private transfer (Noleggio con Conducente – NCC) is a great choice. This is undoubtedly the safest option, offering door-to-door service directly from the airport to your accommodation. With a private driver, you won’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with traffic.

However, this convenience comes at a higher price. For Bologna Airport, prices for a private transfer typically start at around €180 per vehicle. For airports further away, such as Venice or Milan, the cost can rise significantly, with prices ranging from €300 to €400 or more, depending on the distance and the level of service.

For those staying in hotels, it’s possible to ask the hotel to assist with booking a private transfer. While the hotel can facilitate the reservation, the service is provided by external companies specializing in private transfers.

While it may not be the most economical option, the peace of mind and comfort it offers can be well worth the investment, especially for those seeking a hassle-free journey.

 

Reaching the Cruise Terminal from Ravenna

Once you’ve arrived in Ravenna, the next step is to make your way to the cruise terminal. Here are the most common options to get there:

1) Tourism Office-Organized Transfers

The Ravenna Tourism Office offers a convenient transfer service to the cruise terminal for about €20 per person. This is an excellent option for those looking for a budget-friendly and reliable way to reach the terminal. Pickup points are distributed throughout the city, including major hotels, popular squares, and even the train station, ensuring easy access no matter where you’re staying.

2) Private Transfers

For a more comfortable and flexible option, private transfers are available. The details are similar to those mentioned earlier: expect door-to-door service with prices starting at €60 per vehicle for the short trip to the cruise terminal. While this option is less economical, it offers convenience and peace of mind, especially for those traveling with larger groups or lots of luggage.

3) Taxis

While taxis are an option, they often struggle to meet the high demand on busy cruise days. This can result in long waiting times—either for a taxi to arrive at your location or to find one available at a taxi stand. If you plan to use this option, it’s advisable to plan ahead and allow extra time to avoid unnecessary stress.

4) Public Bus

Ravenna’s public bus service also connects to the area near the cruise terminal. However, the nearest bus stop is approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) from the terminal itself. While this is the most economical option, walking under the intense Italian summer sun with all your luggage in tow might not be the most pleasant experience. That said, for the adventurous traveler, it could be a unique and memorable way to kick off your cruise!

Tips for Cruise Travelers

To make the most of your cruise experience from Ravenna, here are a few tips that can help you enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable journey:

1) Explore Ravenna

The top recommendation is to take some time to discover Ravenna and its incredible monuments. Often overlooked, this city is a true hidden gem full of history and stunning art that will leave you pleasantly surprised. From UNESCO World Heritage mosaics to charming streets, Ravenna has so much to offer before or after your cruise.

2) Seek Assistance from Your Accommodation

Don’t hesitate to reach out to the place where you’re staying and ask for help or advice. Hotels and accommodations in Ravenna are experienced in assisting cruise travelers and will gladly work with you to find the best solutions for your needs, from transportation to local tips.

3) Be Prepared for Terminal Construction

Until the end of 2026, the cruise terminal will remain an active construction site, which may cause delays and logistical challenges during embarkation and disembarkation. If you’re cruising during the warmer months, it’s a good idea to bring cold water and anything else you might need in case of prolonged waiting times. A little preparation can go a long way toward staying comfortable in the summer heat.

4) Stay Overnight in Ravenna

Spending at least one night in Ravenna is highly recommended. It allows you to reach the cruise terminal well-rested and stress-free, rather than arriving exhausted after long hours—or even days—of travel. An overnight stay also gives you the chance to explore the city and start your cruise on the right foot.

In Conclusion

I truly hope this guide has been helpful in planning your journey to and from Ravenna for your cruise. As someone who lives and works in this beautiful city, sharing its wonders and assisting travelers like you is not just part of my job—it’s my passion.

Ravenna is a city that never fails to surprise those who take the time to discover it, and I’m confident it will leave a lasting impression on you too. Whether it’s the shimmering mosaics, the welcoming atmosphere, or the unique charm of its streets, Ravenna has so much to offer beyond just being a gateway to your cruise.

If you have any questions, need more advice, or simply want to learn more about Ravenna and the options available to you, I’m here for you! Don’t hesitate to reach out—nothing makes me happier than helping others fall in love with this incredible city and making their journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Wishing you safe travels, unforgettable experiences, and a fantastic cruise adventure!
TomFromRavenna