Founded by Roman nobles in the 5th century as a refuge, Ravello's past as a wealthy maritime republic shaped its distinct architecture. Note the unique Arab-Sicilian influences in Villa Rufolo, which famously inspired the composer Richard Wagner.
Perched 365 meters above the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ravello's natural beauty is a key draw. Beyond the manicured gardens, the Valle delle Ferriere hike reveals a hidden microclimate of waterfalls and rare ferns, a unique experience when visiting Ravello.
Ravello's cuisine relies on ingredients from its cliffside terraced gardens, especially the prized Sfusato Amalfitano lemon. This specific variety is essential for local specialties like 'delizia al limone' and authentic, intensely flavored limoncello.
The best places to visit in Ravello include its historic villas and gardens. Explore Villa Rufolo, the inspiration for Wagner's Parsifal, Villa Cimbrone with its Terrazza dell'Infinito, and the ancient Duomo di Ravello for unique mosaics.
Hike the Sentiero dei Limoni for coastal views, attend the renowned Ravello Festival for summer concerts, or browse artisan shops for intricate ceramics. Cooking classes offer a taste of traditional Amalfi Coast cuisine and local limoncello.
Historic villa with terraced gardens inspiring Wagner.
Breathtaking gardens with the famed Terrace of Infinity.
11th-century cathedral with impressive bronze doors.
Modern concert hall with a unique, wave-like design.
Annual summer festival of music and the performing arts.
Artisan workshops selling traditional painted ceramics.
Scenic trail connecting Ravello to the coast.
To get to Ravello, fly into Naples International Airport (NAP). Take a bus to Salerno or Sorrento, then a SITA bus to Amalfi, and a final bus to Ravello. A direct transfer from the Ravello airport to city center by car takes about 90 minutes.
Ravello is best explored on foot. The primary public transport in Ravello for reaching nearby towns like Amalfi is the SITA bus; buy tickets before boarding. A local Ravello shuttle bus connects the main square to more distant hotels and villas.
Driving in Ravello is difficult due to very narrow roads and restricted traffic zones (ZTL). If you opt for a car rental in Ravello, secure parking with your hotel. When you plan a trip to Ravello, remember many paths involve steep stairs.
Explore traditional food in Ravello. Taste Scialatielli ai frutti di mare and Delizia al Limone. Locals embrace the evening aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink with snacks. It's a cherished ritual before a late, leisurely dinner.
For dinner, eat at Ristorante Pineta 1903, a classic spot. Book ahead. Among the best bars in Ravello is Tony's Food & Drinks for late-night cocktails. Arrive early. Pasticceria Napoli serves great coffee. Morning visits.
Historic spot for fresh seafood and local pasta dishes.
Serves classic Italian pizza and Mediterranean plates.
Authentic Campanian seafood in an intimate setting.
Top-rated for creative seafood and healthy options.
Explore Ravello's heritage through its must-see religious festivals. Witness the solemn Good Friday procession by torchlight or join the July celebrations for patron Saint Pantaleone, marked by processions and fireworks.
Discover Ravello's contemporary arts scene, a key part of things to do in Ravello. The city is famed for world-class classical music concerts and jazz performances, especially during its renowned summer festival.
Summer-long classical music, art, and dance festival.
Patron saint celebration in July with processions and fireworks.
A spectacular fireworks display in September in Torello hamlet.
A moving torchlit procession through the town's streets.
A year-round season of chamber music concerts.
A True Escape
Ravello is such a peaceful escape from the other busy Amalfi towns. The views are just out of this world, looking down at the sea from so high up. It's a place where you can just walk around, take it all in, and feel totally relaxed.
Unforgettable Scenery
The gardens are the main draw here. We spent ages at Villa Cimbrone, and the view from the Terrace of Infinity is something I'll never forget. So quiet and romantic, perfect for a couple's trip. The whole town feels like a picture postcard.
Artistic and Beautiful
Ravello has a special artistic feel. You can see why so many musicians and writers came here. The beautiful ceramic shops are everywhere, and you can feel the history of classical music in the air, especially around Villa Rufolo. It's very inspiring.
So Relaxing!
A wonderful, calm town high up in the hills. It's great for just strolling without huge crowds. We loved sitting in the main Piazza Duomo with a coffee, just watching the world go by. A very different pace from the rest of the coast.
Simply Lovely
Exploring the little alleyways was my favorite part. Every corner has another amazing view. We found a small family-run place and had the best pasta with fresh seafood. The local white wine was the perfect match for the food and the scenery.
Perfect Off-Season Visit
Visiting in the off-season was a great choice. It felt like we had the place to ourselves. The air was crisp and the views were crystal clear. Found some lovely limoncello to take home. It's just a beautiful, straightforwardly lovely spot.