Ravenna has a lively evening scene centred on Piazza del Popolo and the surrounding streets, which fill with students and residents for the passeggiata from around 6pm. The bars on and around the piazza are good for aperitivo — Emilia-Romagna's version runs from spritz to Lambrusco (fizzy red wine, better than its reputation suggests) with complimentary snacks. Later in the evening, the streets around the university buildings have the highest concentration of bars.
The city's cafe culture is typical Emilia-Romagna: strong espresso at a counter, a brioche, and a quick conversation. Afternoon drinking means wine, often the local Sangiovese or a pignoletto. There is no shortage of places to sit outdoors in the warmer months.