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A world of sophistication, yet warm and kind.

With every step, a tale of history unfolds on the charming alleys.

Lush gardens, scenic views, and stories yet untold around its corners.  

Table of Contents

• What to See in Ravello?
• Where to Eat and Drink?
• What to Do in Ravello?
• Where to Stay in Ravello?
• Hiking Trails nearby
• Why Choose Ravello?
• Off the Beaten Path
• How much time do you need in Ravello?
• How to get to Ravello?
• Where to Park in Ravello?

What to See and Do in Ravello?

There are plenty of sightseeing activities to do in Ravello. But a short visit usually includes the famous gardens with the Infinity Terrace. A moment to break to sit in one of the cafes on the main square. A walk between the tight alleyways between historical palaces.
In my post, I will show you landmarks, gardens, and some lesser-known attractions to visit too.

Ravello is a fantastic place to walk around, do some sightseeing, eat gelato (Italian ice cream), and enjoy some of the best views of the Amalfi Coast. If you stay longer, you can also do scenic hikes around the area or join a cooking class.

1. The Cathedral Of Ravello

In Ravello, like many Italian cities, the cathedral stands as one of the most significant monuments. It’s well worth a visit when in Ravello.

From the outside, the Duomo has a minimalistic and bit plain appearance. And the impression continues as we step in. But only at the first glance. Because as soon you start observing the details, you will see some great richness. Firstly, take a look at the ornaments, stunning mosaics, and colorful marbles at the altar.

Then, look up, at the top part of the columns (called capitello). Each capitello displays unique designs because they were recovered from other ancient buildings and ruins. These so-called spolia capitals add an interesting historical touch to the cathedral.

Now, let’s check out some of the highlights inside. Three things you can’t miss when you visit The Doumo: the bronze doors, the pulpit, and the ambo.

• The Ambo: Facing the altar, on your left is the Ambo. Ambo is a raised platform from which readings, sermons, and announcements are delivered during Mass. It features a mosaic with the legendary animal. If you came to Ravello from Amalfi Drive, you might have seen a big sign with the same Strange Animal. Near Atrani, right where is the crossroad for Ravello.
• The Pulpit: is another elevated platform within the Ravello Cathedral. You will find it on your left side (while facing the altar). It’s decorated with fabulous mosaics. The structure is supported by six marble lions. On the top of the lions are the spiral columns. All the columns are decorated with intricate mosaics. Made by Nicola Bartolomeo da Foggia in 1272. Similar pulpits can be found in the Cathedral of Salerno and The Abbey of Cava. Both are located in the Campania region too.
• The Bronze Door: This impressive structure dates back to 1179. The gate was created through fusion. It features 45 panels depicting scenes from the life of Christ on its two wings.

The central altar is a seventeenth-century polychrome marble altar and is typical of southern Italian regions. Colorful marble intarsias are often in baroque style. Usually, green marble is from Prato, red from Verona, and white is associated with Carrara.

Above the altar is a large and rectangular altarpiece: Archangel Michael defeating the devil (1583, Giovan Angelo D’Amato of Maiori).

The church is dedicated to San Pantaleone, the patron saint of Ravello, and even houses the Saint’s relic.

Open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. (even till 9 p.m. during summer). There is an afternoon break, when it’s closed. During this time you can still visit it from the Museum: Museo dell’Opera.
Address: Piazza Vescovado

Gardens of Ravello

The main attractions of a visit to Ravello are the two well-known gardens. The Garden of Villa Rufolo and the Garden of Villa Cimbrone are must-visit spots. Not only when in Ravello but often the highlights of Amalfi Coast itineraries.

2. Villa Cimbrone:

Entry fee: 10 Euro (as of 2024)

Visit the gardens, and the famous panoramic terrace in it. The Infinity Terrace is one of the most iconic spots on the Amalfi Coast.

Opening hours: 9:00am to 8:00pm (last entrance at 7:30pm).

3. Villa Rufolo:

Visit these magnificent gardens where Wagner was lodged. There is a panoramic tower with a view of the sea and the coastline. Here, you can also take iconic pictures with the one tree above the little church towers.

Entry fee: 10 Euro

Opening hours: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm (last entrance at 7:30 pm). Opening times may vary during the Ravello Festival (from July until 3 September).

4.Belvedere Principessa di Piemonte

Via S. Giovanni del Toro.

A charming little panoramic garden.
A lovely spot with a scenic view. Adorned with historical arches and flowers. It is a public garden with no entry fee. The viewpoint is a popular location for wedding photography. Definitely Instagram-worthy!

History of the Belvedere: In 1932, the Ravello Tourist Board purchased a lovely garden owned by Duke Confalone for its enchanting view. The following year, Princess Maria Josè of Savoy and her husband Umberto visited Ravello to attend concerts at Villa Rufolo. The town dedicated a panoramic terrace to the princess, as she charmed the locals with her youthful presence. The encounter left a lasting, almost fairy-tale-like impression on the people of Ravello.

Source: unescoamalficoast.it

5.Gardens of the Municipality of Ravello (Giardini del Monsignore)

Public Gardens, just behind the Cathedral and town hall. They got a makeover in 2018. and are now a green spot perfect fo relaxing.  In summer, you’ll find cool cultural events and music here.

Grab a seat on a bench or sip a coffee at the nearby bars. It’s the perfect spot to have a break from exploring.

6. The Cave Church of St. Angelo dell’Ospedale

Not many know this hidden treasure: the Cave Chapel. This little chapel was cut out from the rock. A site often overlooked by tourists. It is worth a visit, for the atmosphere. It dates back to 1039. The church occupies a natural cavity.

Architecture: The outside entrance is framed with columns. Inside, two rooms separated by an altar. The church was extended in the 1100s. There are some small but decorated columns. The structure layout suggests that first, it was a cave worship place. Later on, as it expanded, it became a resting spot for pilgrims.

Signed on Google Maps as: Archway Altar to Mary on Via Ospendale. Uncertain opening times.

Source: CAFFARO A., Insediamenti rupestri del Ducato di Amalfi, Salerno 1986.

7. Church of San Francesco

Saint Francis of Assisi stopped here on his way to Amalfi.

The cloister near the church is home of the Art Gallery Petit Prince. The arched cloister hosts a changing exhibition. Mostly contemporary art. Free entry.

8. The Moorish Fountain

A public fountain in the middle of the square with the same name. Dates back to 1700s. The fountain is decorated with statues of an ox and a lion, representing the evangelists. The 2 statues were stolen in 1970. Now they are replaced with copies of the original. Address: Piazza Fontana Moresca

Where to Eat?

Bars on the main square are great for an aperitif or cappuccino, to get into the mood. But if you are looking for something different or more special, I selected some places for you. On a shorter visit to Ravello, you can still grab a gelato. If you stay in the town for a full day or longer, you may want to try some good restaurants.

Baffone Ice Cream Shop.

They make one of the best gelato of the Amalfi Coast.

I must admit, after I tried it the first time I was not impressed. I even said something like: good but nothing special. Then, I started to think about it. The particular richness of the flavours and the textures of their ice cream.  Eventually, I felt the urge to go back and have some more.

So, I am warning you: it’s addictive. Maybe the crispy rice in my yogurt with pistachio cream? But other flavours were fabulous too. Since then I went back for round two and round three too. You know, for research purposes, of course! Now they are my first stop, whenever I go to Ravello, (if not the reason).

Restaurant Sigilgaida:

In Ravello, you’ll find some great places with stunning views, but there’s something truly special about Sigilgaida. The terrace overlooks not only to the sea  but also to  the famous gardens of Villa Rufolo. They have gluten-free menu and gluten-free bread too. Friendly service.

Rossellinis Restaurant at Palazzo Avino

The summer terrace has a scenic view of the Coastline. The restaurant proudly holds a Michelin star, promising an exceptional dining experience.

The summer terrace and the gardens, Palazzo Avino, Ravello, Italy

Other restaurants with great views: Hotel Villa Maria – Giordano – Villa Eva and Ristorante Vittoria

Where to Stay in Ravello?

Ravello is filled with historical villas. Many have been transformed into luxurious hotels. Among these, the most renowned ones are Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo. Fortunately, both of these gardens are open to the public. Yet, hidden away are some other villas. The visit them is a privilege, reserved for those who choose to stay within their walls.

To mention a few Palazzo Avone, Palazzo Confalcone, Palazzo Caruso. But the most curious one is Villa Rondinaia.

High End:

Villa Rondinaia in Ravello

Palazzo Avino

Palazzo Confalone

Villa Rondinaia

Among them, this one stands out, as It is literally nestled into the cliff face of Ravello.

You can easily spot it when coming from Minori. The white palace appears to hang against the cliff like a suspended nest. Hence the name that means swallow’s nest. Villa Rondinaia in Ravello is famous as the former home of Gore Vidal. Today, it functions as a luxury hotel.

offering stunning views and featuring a swimming pool, sauna and pool house, and elegant rooms with balconies and terraces.

Construction and history:

E. W. Becket, the owner of Villa Cimbrone, decides to make the villa, for the wish of her daughter, Lucylle.

The project began in 1927. He chose Nicola Mansi to supervise the project, who was a villager and had already worked on the construction of Cimbrone. Together with Francesco Amato, a skilled local craftsman and stonemason, they took charge of building La Rondinaia, an impressive undertaking. The villa’s construction stories still circulate in the village, with workers secured to ropes while working high above the steep cliff.

The villa became the residence of her daughter Lucylle. With her, La Rondinaia is a vibrant cultural hub for English visitors and her exclusive “inner circle,”. In 1972 Gore Vidal the American writer purchased it. He cherished it as his personal home and a writers’ retreat for over 33 years.

Palazzo Avino

Another luxurious retreat in Ravello is Palazzo Avino. The villa is splendid and the restaurant has fantastic views. This place is the spot to be seen. You’ll feel like a celebrity dining in this dreamy place! It’s the ultimate glamorous experience!

Mid-range

Hotel Bonadies offers a 4-star experience. In the center of Ravello. The hotel has a swimming pool. This place is rated 8.4 on booking.

Hotel Giordano Mid-range hotel with a swimming pool.
Private parking is available on site (reservation is required) and it costs EUR 20 per day.

Budget:

Casa Vacanze Vittoria

Casa di Pissi

Nonna Carmelina with a very high 9.7 rating on Booking

Nicola E Magda A hotel with a great location between the main square and Villa Cimbrone. The accommodation has a Mediterranean-style garden, where you can have your breakfast.

Pinguino B&B (in Scala). Homemade Italian-style breakfast that includes a variety of pastries and sweets. Walking distance from Ravello. It takes around 20 minutes to reach the main square of Ravello on foot from the accommodation.

Villa San Lorenzo rooms (Scala)

I’ve got something super cool for you in Ravello if you are on a budget:

Casa Vacanze Vittoria This place is a real gem, right in the middle of Ravello. You can book a room for under 100 bucks! Can you believe it?  This accommodation has a rating of 9.0 and They serve you a yummy breakfast too!

For the best price, you probably have to book it in advance. But this is a fantastic place to stay in Ravello without spending a fortune.

The nearby localities, especially Scala offer some budget options. Generally, Scala is cheaper than Ravello. Many of the accommodations in Scala are within walking distance from Ravello.

I recommend Villa San Lorenzo rooms in Scala. There pool is just fabulous. You can enjoy scenic views of Ravello directly from the pool. Must be magical at sunset.

Other things to do in Ravello:

Shopping in Ravello

For shopping, go to The alleyway (Via Roma) near the central square. This passage is bustling with souvenir shops. Many shop has beautiful ceramics. Hand-painted ceramics are famous on the Amalfi Coast.

Visit the Market

Don’t miss the open-air market held every Tuesday. the parking lot terrace. It’s like a farmers’ market with local producers selling cheeses and salamis. The lower part of the market has clothes and other goodies too. It’s a perfect spot to mix with the locals. You can discover some gourmet Italian treats directly from the farmers.

When is the market in Ravello?

Every Tuesday, weekly. From early morning until one / two o’clock.

Where is the market in Ravello?

In the parking area below Piazza Vescovado. The parking lot is open-air and has three levels. The market is located on the two lowest levels. Signed on Google Maps as: Parcheggio Piazza Duomo

Attend a cooking class

If you stay in Ravello for multiple days, you may want to do some fun activities. Try Cooking classes. They are a great way to learn about Italian culture, as food holds immense significance in Italy. The Amalfi Coast has many regional dishes too, nowhere else to be found. Like the famous pasta of Minori that originates back to Roman times (N’dunderi).

My pick is in the nearby village of Minori.

During this class, you’ll prepare a full menu that reflects the rich history of the area and family traditions. It starts with making the classic eggplant parmigiana, followed by Neapolitan ragù to season the local fresh pasta called N’dunderi.

N’dunderi is a pasta similar to gnocchi and features ricotta cheese as its main ingredient.

And many other things await you in this cooking class. So, book your unforgettable gastronomic experience in the heart of Minori.

Join a walking tour from Ravello to Amalfi

One of the most interesting is this 3-hour private walking tour. In the footsteps of the legendary artist Escher, exploring the places that inspired his work.

Private Walking tour from Ravello to Amalfi following Escher works.

Go for a Hike

There are many stunning hikes around Ravello and the surrounding area of Scala.

The Reserva Satale Valle delle Ferriere offers a variety of paths and hikes with different levels of difficulty. One lesser-known point of the National Park is Fic’o Noce, accessible from Scala, where you’ll discover multiple waterfalls.

The hike to Punto Aglio is quite easy (start from Sacla). When you reach the Punta Aglio, walk along the path for another 20 minutes. Here the trail offers some incredible views. You can see the town of Amalfi from above, and The Mountains of the Ferriere Valley on the side. If you continue further you will reach the waterfall at Fic’o Noce. The trail difficulty is moderate and the path is easy to follow. I recommend you use the application called “Maps Me”. It is an offline map that would work without internet coverage too. All the mentioned trails and points are visible on Maps Me.

Why Choose Ravello?

Ravello’s atmosphere is different from the other towns on the Amalfi Coast. It is very laid back, yet elegant. Peaceful and relaxing.

Bit reminds me of the slogan of the latest fashion trend “quiet luxury”: Ravello whispers among the other Amalfi towns. Nothing flashy or showy. Ravello is a very sophisticated little town.

The Ravello Music Festival

If you happen to be in Ravello between July and August, consider yourself lucky! This is the time of the famous Ravello Festival. One of the most enchanting events is the concert at dawn.

Melodies at Sunrise – Experience the Unique Dawn Atmosphere (the tile in 2023).

The concerts are held in the garden of Villa Rufolo. The music at daybreak and the shimmering sea, are crowned with a panorama all around you. It’s multi-sensory experience that will stay with you forever.

Ravello is an ideal base to stay on the Amalfi Coast.

Ravello is an excellent starting point to explore nearby towns. Amalfi and Minori are in walking distance (at least downwards). You can walk down along the steps. The area has a net of ancient trails (mostly stairs) that connect the villages. And don’t worry about getting lost – the main paths are well-marked.  You can follow the little ceramic signs, showing you the right directions.

Now, when it comes to heading back up? The ascent can be quite a steep one. So, you might want to consider taking the bus on the way back.

Off The Beaten Path

A Hidden corner under the Rocks and net of ancient pathways

As you walk down along the Via della Republica, you’ll reach a point where the road takes a turn (the peak of the hairpin turn). Right there, you’ll spot a little side street, where cars are not allowed past the designated point.

The structure of the convent and church is set into the rock.

But it’s only open for visits during liturgical events, which are held every Sunday morning (As the girl in the nearby bar informed me).

During September, after the celebration of the saints (Sept. 26), the church becomes the destination of many pilgrimages.

The bar under the rocks ( Look for “La Giuliana Di Mansi Marco” on Google Maps)

This curious little bar near the convent is a favourite among the locals. Its outside tables are nestled in a charming semi-cave, sheltered by the rocky cliffs. The hand-painted mosaic wall that stands behind the tables. The setting makes it a cozy spot with an artistic touch.

The little road beneath the cliffs is a circuit under the rock. If you walk on it you walk directly under Villa Rondinaia and the Infinity terrace. The path leads you to the other side of Ravello (near Villa Cimbrone). Along the way, you’ll pass gardens, BnBs, and houses. Keep an eye out for the “secret” steps to Atrani, Amalfi, and The Castiglione Beach.

Around Ravello

The town of Scala

Ravello is known for its stunning views and vistas. But where you can find the best panoramas of Ravello?

It’s Scala. Scala is  a village next to Ravello on the nearby hillside.  Scala is a slightly higher spot and offers a fantastic view of Ravello, and not only.  Visit the main square of Scala and venture uphill to explore the villages.  Head towards Punta D’Aglio for even more fantastic vistas.

The village of Minuta

Visit the little village of Minuta.  Don’t miss the Ruins of the Basilica of Sant’Eustachio. The garden around  the ruins also has a fabulous view.

How Much Time to Visit Ravello?

If you’re based elsewhere on the Amalfi Coast, you probably visit Ravello for a day trip. In a few hours, you can see the highlights. A full-day visit is enough time for the gardens of Villa Rufolo and Cimbrone too, and walk around to discover the city.

So how much time do you need in Ravello?

However, if you choose to base yourself here (which is highly recommended!), 3 days are ideal. This gives time to see the nearby Amalfi and Minori too. With a 5-day stay, you can easily take day trips to other beautiful places along the Amalfi Coast, such as Positano. You can also hike in places like Valle delle Ferriere, Path of the Gods, or even take a trip to Pompeii.

Well, it could be as short as 3 hours or as long as 3 days. You might end up staying for 33 years as Gore Vidal did, captivated by this paradise!

How to Get to Ravello?

• From Rome
• From Sorrento
• From Naples Airport
• Other Option
• From Naples
• From Salerno
• From Amalfi
• By Car

Public transport:

Ravello is connected only by bus.

The closest train station that serves high-speed trains is in Salerno. So If you are already in Italy,  the best is getting to Salerno by train. Otherwise, the closest airport is Napoli Capodichino (Nap). From 2024 the airport in Salerno also opened with limited connections.

From Rome

• Take a train from Rome to Salerno.

[Continued in the Salerno section]

From Sorrento

Option 1: BUS + BUS

• Take the Sita bus line: Sorrento – Amalfi.
• In Amalfi, change for the Sita bus line: Amalfi – Ravello.

Option 2: FERRY + BUS (April to October)

• Take the ferry from Sorrento to Amalfi.
• Then catch the Sita bus line: Amalfi – Ravello.

From Naples Airport

Option 1: AIRPORT BUS + TRAIN + BUS + BUS

• Take the Airport bus (Alibus) to Napoli Centrale (Naples Central Station).
• Take a train to Salerno.
• From Salerno, board a bus to Amalfi (SITA bus Salerno – Amalfi), and then transfer to another bus for Ravello (SITA BUS Amalfi – Ravello).

Option 3: DIRECT SHUTTLE BUS + BUS

• There is a direct shuttle bus to Amalfi operated by Pintour company. The Ticket price is 20 Euro (as of 2023)
• Once you arrive in Amalfi, you still have to change for the local bus heading to Ravello.

From Naples City Center

Option 1: BUS + BUS

• Take the Sita bus from Naples directly to Amalfi.
• At Amalfi, transfer to the Sita bus bound for Ravello.

Option 2: TRAIN + BUS + BUS

Option 1: BUS+BUS: You can take the Sita bus from Naples directly to Amalfi. At Amalfi, transfer to the Sita bus bound for Ravello.

Option 2: TRAIN+BUS+BUS

From Salerno

Option 1: BUS + BUS

• Board the Sita bus from Salerno to Amalfi.
• In Amalfi, change for the Sita bus heading to Ravello.

Option 2: FERRY + BUS (April to October)

• Take the ferry to Amalfi.
• From Amalfi, it’s easy to transfer to a bus heading towards Ravello. The distance between the ferry terminal and the bus stop is only a couple of hundred meters. Buses leave from Flavio Gioia Square in Amalfi.

From Amalfi

• The bus company SITA operates the bus between Amalfi and Ravello.
• The ticket costs 2.2 Euro (as of 2023).
• In Amalfi, you can also consider taking a taxi or a shared taxi. Shared taxi services are common, allowing you to split the fare with strangers. The typical cost is around 20 euros per person. Look for the six-seater, van-type cars.

From Positano

FERRY + BUS or BUS + BUS (change in Amalfi in both cases)

By Car

You have three driving options: via Sorrento, via Salerno, or via the mountain road.

The latter is known as “Valico d’Chiunzi.”

Where to Park in Ravello?

Practical info on parking:

Duomo Parking: The daily price is 30€. It’s a convenient area very close to the center. The rates are 3€ from 8 AM to 12 PM, 4€ per hour between 12 PM and 5 PM, and 3€ from 5 PM to 12 AM. You can pay in cash or by card. From midnight to 8 AM, it’s 1€ per hour or (fraction thereof).

It’s a good parking option. The city center is just up the stairs. During our last visit (June 2023), there were plenty of free spaces available. But some years ago, in August I remember we almost got the last spot. 

The parking lot is open-air and divided into 2 floors, like terraces. During high season, it might be a bit crowded and challenging to maneuver in.

This is the largest parking lot available in Ravello. However, if you’re looking for an alternative, there are private car parks nearby, just a short distance from Ravello. Some of them also offer a shuttle service for customers to be picked up and brought back to Ravello.

Parking “Al Ponte”: Between Ravello and Scala. A great parking option in Ravello is just a little outside the town, they offer  shuttle service to Ravello for free. A full day is from 20€ to 30€ depending on the time of the year.

IMPORTANT: You can’t drive inside the center of Ravello because it’s a ZTL, which stands for “Zona a Traffico Limitato” or Restricted Traffic Zone. Only authorised vehicles like residents’ cars and emergency vehicles are allowed in there.

Meaning of the blue, white, and yellow lines:

When you come across a blue line painted on the asphalt around a parking spot, means you have to pay for parking there. The white line, typically means parking is free. Be careful because some of those white-lined spots might be reserved for residents only.

Yellow lines indicate parking spots reserved for special groups (residents, official vehicles,..etc) and not for general parking.

IMPORTANT: You can’t drive inside the center of Ravello because it’s a ZTL, which stands for “Zona a Traffico Limitato” or Restricted Traffic Zone. Only authorised vehicles like residents’ cars and emergency vehicles are allowed in there.