Spotlight: internationals in… Ravenna

Ravenna is often known for its mosaics and UNESCO heritage, but for those who live here it is also a city made of everyday connections, small communities and a strong sense of belonging. For international students and talents, settling in Ravenna means discovering a place where it is easy to get involved, meet people and build routines.

Below you can find some local organisations, courses and opportunities that can help you connect with the international community, learn Italian and stay active.

International and social communities

One of the main reference points for international students is ESN Ravenna (You can find them also on Instagram) part of the Erasmus Student Network. The association regularly organises social events, trips and cultural activities and is open not only to Erasmus students but also to other internationals living in the city.

Another active local network is Ravenna Welcomes Talents, a community created to support and connect international talents living and working in the area. The group is mainly active through WhatsApp and works as an informal space to share information, opportunities and events.

The University of Bologna – Campus di Ravenna also plays an important role in the city’s international life. Even for non-students, the campus often hosts public lectures, cultural initiatives and events that are open to the wider community.

Italian language courses and language exchange

For students of the University of Bologna, the CLA – Centro Linguistico di Ateneo is a key resource. The CLA offers Italian language courses for international students at different levels, designed to support both academic and everyday communication, with specific offers linked to the Ravenna campus.

Another important institution is CPIA Ravenna (Centro Provinciale per l’Istruzione degli Adulti), which provides public Italian language courses for adults, including foreign residents. These courses are generally accessible and well integrated into the local context.

In addition, Ravenna has several private language schools and freelance teachers offering individual or small-group Italian courses. Informal language exchange opportunities are also available, often organised through social media, libraries and cultural associations.

Sports and outdoor activities

Ravenna offers a wide range of sports and physical activities, thanks to a strong network of local associations and facilities spread across the city and the surrounding area.

For university students, CUS Ravenna is the main reference point, offering access to different sports activities and facilities, often at reduced rates and in an international-friendly environment.

Beyond the university context, there are many opportunities to practise sport at all levels, from team sports and fitness to outdoor and water activities, especially along the coast. A comprehensive overview of sports activities available in Ravenna and nearby areas can be found on the local information portal.

For those looking for more adrenaline-filled experiences, the Ravenna area also offers extreme and outdoor sports, including water sports, adventure activities and nature-based experiences. An overview of these opportunities is available on the dedicated portal.

Volunteering opportunities

Volunteering is another meaningful way to connect with the local community, practise Italian and contribute to the city. In Ravenna, many associations are active in social support, culture, environment and events, and often welcome international volunteers.

A dedicated volunteering guide is available on the Informagiovani Ravenna website, where it is possible to explore the main organisations and opportunities active in the area.

Work and networking spaces

For internationals looking for places to work, study, or connect with professionals, Ravenna offers several coworking spaces and hubs. One of the main coworking spaces in the city is Cre.S.Co Coworking, managed by a social cooperative and supported by the municipality. It provides shared workstations, meeting rooms, and hosts training events and networking opportunities.

In the heart of the Darsena area, Darsena Multi Spazio offers a flexible environment for workshops, meetings and professional gatherings, while Laboratorio Aperto Ravenna provides modern coworking facilities, creative spaces and opportunities for collaboration among freelancers, startups and international professionals.

For those interested in innovation and sustainability, Ravenna InnovationLAB combines coworking spaces with incubation programs linked to research in environment, energy and marine sectors. Mercato Coperto di Ravenna adds another central option with shared desks, meeting rooms, and networking opportunities in a vibrant setting.

These spaces are ideal not only for working or studying, but also for meeting local professionals, participating in events, and connecting with the wider community.

These spaces are useful not only for working or studying, but also for meeting local professionals, participating in events, and getting involved in networking opportunities.

Additional information

For further information about opportunities in the city — including education, work, volunteering, culture and leisure — Informagiovani Ravenna is an important local service. It provides guidance and updated information and can be a useful starting point to explore what the city has to offer. In addiction, on the Europe Direct Romagna IG page, you can find a lot of different opportunities at local level, go check it out!

Stay connected with it-ER: Ambassador Lab

To stay up to date on upcoming initiatives, we recommend following the it-ER website and communication channels. In the coming months, it-ER will launch the Ambassador Lab, a series of meetings bringing together it-ER territorial communities across Emilia-Romagna.

The Ambassador Lab will offer opportunities to exchange experiences, connect with other internationals living in the region and strengthen local networks.

A final tip

In Ravenna, many opportunities circulate through personal networks and messaging groups rather than official channels. Asking at a language course, a sports centre or a university event is often the easiest way to find your place in the community.

Stay tuned as the Spotlight tour moves to its next destination