What to Buy in Ravenna

Tucked along Italy’s Adriatic coast, Ravenna is a city of quiet grandeur and artistic brilliance. Famous for its glittering Byzantine mosaics, charming piazzas and UNESCO-listed basilicas, it’s also a wonderful place to shop for unique, meaningful souvenirs. Whether you’re strolling past mosaic-covered churches, browsing artisan workshops or enjoying a shore excursion with time to explore, Ravenna offers treasures you won’t find anywhere else.

Wondering what to buy in Ravenna? From intricate mosaics to local food and handmade crafts, here are 10 perfect Ravenna souvenirs to bring home a piece of this historic city.

1. Handmade Mosaic Art

Mosaics are Ravenna’s signature art form — and arguably its most iconic souvenir. The city has preserved this intricate technique for over 1,500 years, and you’ll find stunning handmade mosaics crafted in studios throughout the historic center.

Pieces range from coasters and jewelry to wall art and reproductions of famous Ravenna mosaic panels. Visit artisan studios near the Basilica di San Vitale or in Via Argentario to watch the artists at work and select a piece with a story behind it.

2. Ceramics From Faenza

Just a short drive from Ravenna lies Faenza, a town world-renowned for its ceramics. Many shops in Ravenna carry Faenza-style pottery, known for its detailed patterns and vibrant colors, often inspired by Renaissance designs.

Look for hand-painted plates, vases and tiles, each piece made using centuries-old techniques. These ceramics are both functional and decorative — ideal for adding a touch of Italy to your table or walls.

3. Romagna Wines

The Emilia-Romagna region is home to a variety of excellent local wines, and Ravenna is the perfect place to pick up a bottle (or two). Sangiovese di Romagna is the standout red, while Albana and Trebbiano are light, refreshing whites perfect for summer sipping.

Wine shops around the city offer tastings and can help you find travel-friendly packaging. Many also carry wine gift boxes with regional cheeses or cured meats — a true taste of Romagna.

4. Liqueurs & Herbal Spirits

In addition to wine, Ravenna is known for its herbal liqueurs and digestifs. Nocino (a sweet walnut liqueur), amaro and limoncello are all popular choices, often made by small local producers using family recipes.

These liqueurs are typically packaged in charming bottles with hand-labeled details, making them great for gifting or bringing home a sip of Italian tradition.

5. Local Olive Oil

The surrounding countryside of Emilia-Romagna is rich with olive groves, and the extra-virgin olive oil produced here is golden, peppery and full of character. Many gourmet shops and markets in Ravenna sell locally-pressed oils in decorative bottles or gift sets.

For a culinary souvenir that truly captures the region’s flavors, pair the olive oil with balsamic vinegar or artisan pasta for an Italian kitchen starter kit.

6. Leather Goods

While Florence may be the leather capital of Italy, Ravenna holds its own with a growing number of small workshops offering handmade leather bags, belts, wallets and accessories. Crafted using traditional Italian techniques, these pieces often reflect the earthy tones and coastal inspiration of the region.

Look for local artisans near Piazza del Popolo or tucked away on quieter side streets for something stylish, practical and made to last.

7. Mosaic-Inspired Jewelry

If you want a wearable piece of Ravenna’s artistry, mosaic-inspired jewelry is the perfect find. Local designers create earrings, pendants and brooches using tiny glass tesserae — just like the mosaics in the city’s famous churches.

These pieces make beautiful gifts and conversation starters. You can find them in museum shops, artisan studios and boutiques throughout the city.

8. Romagna Textiles & Embroidery

Ravenna is part of a region known for its fine linen and embroidered textiles, often made using traditional Romagnolo techniques. Tea towels, aprons, table runners and pillowcases are commonly available in local markets and homeware shops.

Look for classic patterns in red, blue or green — many inspired by nature or rural life. They’re easy to pack and add rustic Italian charm to any home.

9. Balsamic Vinegar From Modena

Though not made in Ravenna itself, traditional balsamic vinegar from nearby Modena is one of the best gourmet souvenirs you can buy while visiting Emilia-Romagna. Aged in wooden barrels for years, this rich, syrupy vinegar is perfect for drizzling over cheeses, fruits or salads.

Many gourmet shops in Ravenna carry aged balsamic in elegant bottles, sometimes boxed with tasting notes or pairing suggestions.

10. Handbound Journals & Paper Goods

Ravenna’s peaceful, artistic atmosphere inspires creativity, and you’ll find beautiful handbound journals and stationery in local bookshops and artisan paper stores. Some are wrapped in leather, while others feature mosaic motifs or antique-style bindings.

They make thoughtful gifts — or the perfect place to record your own memories from the trip.

What To Buy in Ravenna?

If you’re wondering what to buy in Ravenna, start with a piece of handmade mosaic art, local ceramics or bottles of regional wine. Other popular Ravenna souvenirs include mosaic jewelry, olive oil, leather goods and herbal liqueurs. For something homey, opt for embroidered linens or a bottle of aged balsamic vinegar — or pick up a handbound journal to reflect on your journey.