A Travel Price Comparison for Italy Ventimiglia vs. Ravenna for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Ventimiglia or Ravenna?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Ravenna? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a classic, authentic, and elegant seaside town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food.

Ravenna

Ravenna is a charming, authentic, and historic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ventimiglia and Ravenna: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm


Is there more to do in Ventimiglia or Ravenna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ventimiglia. Although Ventimiglia and Ravenna are both popular with visitors, Ventimiglia has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ventimiglia is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Ravenna is known for its museums and nightlife. Ravenna is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its many stunning mosaics which date back to the early Christian and Byzantine empires. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches. It is also home to The Friday Market.

How is Ventimiglia different from Ravenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ravenna and Ventimiglia. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ventimiglia or Ravenna?

Ventimiglia
Ravenna

Ravenna is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

Ravenna offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most sights in town are centered around the the beautiful mosaics. Neonian Baptistery is a good place to begin your visit. Other highlights include San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Ventimiglia or Ravenna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ventimiglia
Ravenna

Foodies will find both Ventimiglia and Ravenna both to be superb destinations.

Dining out in Ventimiglia is an experience not to be missed. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Ravenna. The region is most known for its first course dishes, so pasta lovers will enjoy dining on homemade egg pasta dishes that are served with meat or cheese sauces. You'll also find lots of grilled meats and many great desserts.

Is Ventimiglia or Ravenna Better for Nightlife?

Ventimiglia
Ravenna

Ravenna is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

Ravenna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find most of the pubs and clubs in town around Marina di Ravenna. There are a couple of places that attract a crowd, but many are open only during the summer months.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Ventimiglia or Ravenna Better for Beaches?

Ventimiglia
Ravenna

Ventimiglia is a good destination for the beache. However, Ravenna is not a beach destination.

Ventimiglia offers a nice beach destination. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Ravenna is not a beach destination.


Is Ventimiglia or Ravenna Better for its Old Town?

Ventimiglia
Ravenna

Ventimiglia is a very popular place for its old town. However, Ravenna does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Ravenna does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ventimiglia or Ravenna?

Ventimiglia
Ravenna

Ventimiglia is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Ventimiglia is well-known for its shopping. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Many visitors go to Ravenna to go shopping. There are some nice shopping streets in town where you can buy locally made mosaics. You'll also find art studios and artisan shops, as well as your typical souvenir shops and clothing stores. Via Cavour, via Diaz, and via Cairoli are some of the most popular shopping streets.

Is Ventimiglia or Ravenna Better for Families?

Ventimiglia
Ravenna

Ravenna is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Ravenna is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. In town you'll find mosaics, museums, and a charming town, and ten kilometers outside of town you'll find Italy's largest amusement park - Mirabilandia. The city is also filled with parks where kids can explore and learn, and the food, like any Italian city, is very kid-friendly.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.


Is Ventimiglia or Ravenna Better for Couples?

Ventimiglia
Ravenna

With fun activities for couples, both Ventimiglia and Ravenna make for a superb place to visit.

Couples visit Ventimiglia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Ravenna is a great seaside town if you're traveling as a couple. Many visitors to Italy don't add this charming town to their itinerary, but for couples who want to experience a small town setting with beautiful art and architecture, then Ravenna is a great option. There are parks to explore and great restaurants to experience as well.

Is Ventimiglia or Ravenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ventimiglia
Ravenna

Ravenna is a popular place for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ravenna. It's a bit off-the-beaten path, so you won't find a large number of hostels or a lot of backpackers to hang out with. That doesn't mean it won't make a great addition to your itinerary though.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Ravenna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ventimiglia
Ravenna

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ventimiglia and Ravenna.

You'll find some public transit in Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

While Ravenna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses in and around town are managed by START ROMAGNA and offer access to many nearby towns.


Is Ventimiglia or Ravenna a more walkable city?

Ventimiglia
Ravenna

Ventimiglia and Ravenna both are superb when exploring on foot.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable destination. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

Ravenna is very walkable. There are care-free areas to the town that can only be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Ventimiglia Worth Visiting? and Is Ravenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ravenna or Ventimiglia?

How long in Ventimiglia or Ravenna?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ventimiglia or Ravenna to fill your time. In our opinion, Ravenna has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Ravenna than Ventimiglia. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Ravenna than Ventimiglia. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Ravenna, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Ventimiglia than Ravenna. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Ventimiglia that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ravenna than Ventimiglia if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Ravenna.


  • How many days in Ventimiglia or Ravenna? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ventimiglia 1-2 
    Ravenna 1-2

One day in Ventimiglia or Ravenna?

Ventimiglia is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This seaside town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the off-the-beaten-path town of Ravenna. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Ventimiglia or Ravenna?

Ventimiglia might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ventimiglia has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming small town of Ravenna. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Ventimiglia or Ravenna?

Ventimiglia is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The authentic town of Ravenna offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ventimiglia or Ravenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ventimiglia. Since Ventimiglia is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ravenna. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Ravenna or Ventimiglia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Ventimiglia is €121, while the average daily cost in Ravenna is €84. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ventimiglia and Ravenna in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ventimiglia 51
    Ravenna 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ventimiglia 102
    Ravenna 108
Compare Hotels in Ventimiglia and Ravenna

Looking for a hotel in Ventimiglia or Ravenna? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ventimiglia


Hotels in Ravenna


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ventimiglia Hotel Prices and Ravenna Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ventimiglia 49
    Ravenna 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ravenna

Also for Ravenna, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Ravenna Cruise Port: One Way Transfer to Bologna Airport: $533
  • Ravenna, Day Trip from Bologna including private transfer: $1,758
  • Ravenna, Day Trip from Venice including private transfer: $2,238
  • Treviso Airport: One Way Transfer to Venice, Piazzale Roma: $256
  • Venice Airport (VCE): 1-Way Transfer to Chioggia Cruise Port: $298

Is it cheaper to fly into Ventimiglia or Ravenna?

Prices for flights to both Ravenna and Ventimiglia change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Ventimiglia 38
    Ravenna 26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ventimiglia.

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $95
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ventimiglia 27
    Ravenna 4.29

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Tours and Activities in Ravenna

For Ravenna, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Bologna: BLQ airport to Ravenna cruise terminal: $389
  • Cruise Terminal From/to Venice: $938

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ventimiglia 7.19
    Ravenna 16


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ventimiglia and Ravenna, we can see that Ventimiglia is more expensive. And not only is Ravenna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ravenna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ravenna and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Ventimiglia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ventimiglia than you might in Ravenna.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ventimiglia Expensive? and Is Ravenna Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ventimiglia or Ravenna?

Ravenna has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Ventimiglia and Ravenna, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Ventimiglia or Ravenna?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Ravenna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ventimiglia as well as Ravenna. Most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Ravenna because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Ventimiglia is generally around the same temperature as Ravenna. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 23°C (73°F), and Ravenna fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Ventimiglia usually gets less rain in July than Ravenna. Ventimiglia gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ventimiglia 23°C (73°F) 
    Ravenna 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Ravenna in the Autumn?

Both Ravenna and Ventimiglia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Ravenna this time of year.

Ventimiglia is a little warmer than Ravenna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ventimiglia averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Ravenna fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Ventimiglia. In October, Ventimiglia usually receives more rain than Ravenna. Ventimiglia gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F) 
    Ravenna 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Ravenna in the Winter?

Both Ravenna and Ventimiglia during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ravenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ravenna. In the winter, Ventimiglia is much warmer than Ravenna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ventimiglia in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Ravenna averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Ventimiglia usually gets more rain in January than Ravenna. Ventimiglia gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F) 
    Ravenna 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Ravenna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ventimiglia and Ravenna. Many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ravenna in the spring for the small town charm.

In April, Ventimiglia is generally a little warmer than Ravenna. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 13°C (56°F), and Ravenna fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In April, Ventimiglia usually receives more rain than Ravenna. Ventimiglia gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Ravenna receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F) 
    Ravenna 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Ravenna and Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia Ravenna
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 5°C (41°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (53°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)


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