
Ravenne
156,300 residents · 226,000 within 5 km · 3 m above sea level
What Ravenna is actually like
Ravenna, located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, emerges as a city rich in history and culture, making it an intriguing choice for expats and retirees. Renowned for its stunning UNESCO-listed Byzantine mosaics, Ravenna serves as a cultural hub with 13 museums and a vibrant arts scene, including the celebrated Ravenna Festival. The city’s compact size boasts a walkable landscape and excellent air quality, though public transport options are limited, and traffic congestion can be an issue. Ravenna's heritage as a historical bridge between Europe and the East contributes to its unique atmosphere. However, expats may face challenges such as a high cost of living and crime rates that exceed the national average. While the local community is regarded as friendly and welcoming, the limited availability of English-speaking services can pose some difficulties. Outdoor activities abound nearby, particularly at the Delta of the Po Park, and the local seafood industry enhances its culinary pleasures.
How Ravenna is built
Post-war expanded comune
Building age, condition and occupancy from the ISTAT census (2011), by census section. Occupancy is shown as one honest split — the 2011 census does not reliably separate holiday homes from vacant ones.
Towns like Ravenna
Closest matches in Emilia-Romagna on quality of life, infrastructure and economy.
- Vignola — Modena · 26,200 residents
- Carpi — Modena · 73,300 residents
- Reggio nell'Emilia — Reggio nell'Emilia · 172,300 residents
- Cesena — Forlì-Cesena · 95,700 residents
- Spilamberto — Modena · 13,000 residents
- Molinella — Bologna · 15,800 residents
The rest of the Ravenna profile — cost of living, healthcare, climate, broadband, schools and the full pros & cons — is behind a free account.

