Ravello Italy: 1st Time Visitor Guide

Perched like a balcony over the Amalfi Coast, the town of Ravello Italy offers a magical blend of cliffside views, romantic gardens, historic villas, and a peaceful charm that feels worlds away from the bustle of nearby Positano or Amalfi. Often considered the crown jewel of the Amalfi hills, Ravello is a dream destination for first-time visitors seeking elegance, history, and soul-stirring scenery. This guide will help you make the most of your visit.

Overview

Ravello is a mountaintop village in the Campania region of southern Italy, located roughly 1,200 feet above sea level. Known for its lush gardens, classical music culture, and sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ravello has long been a retreat for artists, writers, and composers. Unlike other Amalfi Coast towns built around beaches or bustling ports, Ravello feels like a refined sanctuary, with cobbled streets, tranquil terraces, and an air of timelessness.

10 Best Things to Do in Ravello Italy

1. Villa Rufolo

Built in the 13th century, Villa Rufolo is one of Ravello’s crown jewels. Once home to a wealthy merchant family, its Arab-Sicilian architecture, lush terraced gardens, and Moorish cloisters set a dramatic stage for Wagner’s creative inspiration. Visit the tower for panoramic views, wander through vibrant flowerbeds that change with the seasons, and attend a summer concert if visiting during the Ravello Festival.

Tip: Don’t miss the iconic balcony view over the cliffs, a popular photography spot and an unforgettable memory.

2. Villa Cimbrone

Villa Cimbrone offers a grander, more romantic setting, with sprawling gardens that feel like stepping into a painting. Its most famous feature, the Terrace of Infinity, is a marble-balustraded promenade lined with Roman-style busts and a jaw-dropping view of the sea. Wander through rose gardens, shady stone archways, and hidden fountains that offer surprises at every turn.

Bonus: The villa is also a luxury hotel, so if you stay here, you can enjoy the gardens after the tourists leave.

3. Ravello Cathedral (Duomo di Ravello)

Located in Piazza Vescovado, the Duomo was founded in 1086 and blends Romanesque and Baroque architecture. Highlights include the bronze doors made in Constantinople, mosaics by Nicola di Bartolomeo, and the impressive pulpit supported by six lions. The small museum in the crypt displays religious artifacts and relics.

Why go: It’s a peaceful place to admire medieval artistry and soak in Ravello’s spiritual roots.

4. Attend the Ravello Festival

This iconic classical music festival takes place between June and September, with performances held in the open-air gardens of Villa Rufolo. The seaside stage, surrounded by greenery and historic architecture, makes every concert feel like a cinematic experience.

Even if you’re not into classical music, the experience is unforgettable due to the setting alone.

5. Hike the Path of the Lemons (Sentiero dei Limoni)

Linking Minori to Maiori (or climbing up to Ravello), this scenic hiking path winds through terraced lemon groves and offers sweeping views of the coastline. Along the way, you’ll encounter farmhouses, small churches, and locals tending to their crops.

Difficulty: Moderate. For a more relaxing option, take the path downhill instead of climbing up.

6. Relax in Piazza Vescovado

This central square is Ravello’s social heart. Lined with cafés, gelato shops, and boutiques, it’s perfect for a leisurely espresso or a glass of wine as you people-watch or listen to live music from nearby restaurants.

Local tip: Grab a seat at Caffè Duomo and enjoy the lively, yet tranquil, pace of village life.

7. Take a Traditional Cooking Class

Many local agriturismos and B&Bs offer cooking classes where you can learn to prepare regional specialties like gnocchi alla sorrentina, eggplant parmigiana, or fresh lemon risotto. Classes often include a tour of a garden or vineyard and end with a sit-down meal.

Why it’s great: It’s not just about food, it’s a cultural experience that connects you with local life.

8. Visit the Coral Museum (Museo del Corallo Camo)

This small museum celebrates the centuries-old craft of coral jewelry and inlay work, which was historically significant in the Campania region. Displays include antique coral pieces, tools, and cameo carvings.

What makes it special: It’s one of the few places that preserves the history of Ravello’s artisan traditions.

9. Hike to Scala or Atrani

From Ravello, you can take ancient footpaths down to the nearby towns of Scala (Italy’s oldest village) or Atrani (a postcard-perfect beach town). These trails pass lemon groves, olive orchards, and offer coastal views with fewer crowds.

Tip: Bring sturdy shoes and water as the paths can be steep and rugged.

10. Shop for Local Ceramics

Ravello is known for high-quality hand-painted ceramics. You’ll find colorful plates, tiles, lemon-themed pitchers, and hand-molded sculptures. Many shops will ship your purchases internationally.

Recommended shop: Ceramiche d’Arte Carmela, one of the oldest ceramic studios in Ravello.

Hidden Gems in Ravello

1. Villa La Rondinaia

Formerly the residence of author Gore Vidal, this cliffside estate is now a luxury hotel that’s completely tucked away from the main tourist areas. It features private terraces, lush gardens, and rooms with views so dramatic they almost seem unreal.

Why it’s a hidden gem: It’s secluded, exclusive, and few visitors even realize it’s open to the public as a hotel.

2. Via Santa Chiara Walking Path

This quiet pedestrian lane begins near Villa Cimbrone and leads through residential areas with stone archways, overgrown gardens, and windows opening onto the coast. It’s a peaceful alternative to the busier tourist paths.

Why it’s special: It feels like stepping back in time, perfect for photographers and sunset lovers.

3. Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium

Designed by the famous Brazilian architect, this modernist concert hall stands in contrast to Ravello’s medieval charm. With a wave-like roof and sea-facing stage, it hosts performances and exhibits throughout the year.

Don’t miss: Check for smaller events and art exhibits that aren’t heavily advertised but are open to the public.

5. Secret Lemon Gardens

Some hotels and agriturismos, like La Vecchia Cantina, offer exclusive access to private lemon orchards. You can walk through the trees, learn about the traditional farming process, and sample homemade limoncello or lemon marmalade.

Ask your accommodation if they offer lemon grove tours as many are not listed online.

Best Times to Visit

Spring (April to June): Ideal weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds. Great time for photography and hiking.
Summer (July to August): Peak tourist season with cultural events like the Ravello Festival. Expect higher prices and heat.
Fall (September to October): Still warm but less crowded. The sea is still swimmable, and the colors begin to shift in the landscape.
Winter (November to March): Quiet and serene, though many shops and hotels may be closed.

1–5 Day Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Orientation

Arrive in Ravello from Naples or Salerno
Explore Piazza Vescovado and Ravello Cathedral
Dinner at a terrace-view restaurant

Day 2: Villas & Gardens

Morning at Villa Rufolo
Afternoon at Villa Cimbrone
Sunset on the Terrace of Infinity
Optional wine tasting experience

Day 3: Coastal Hike & Cooking Class

Hike down to Atrani or Amalfi
Spend time at the beach
Take a late afternoon cooking class in Ravello

Day 4: Hidden Gems & Relaxation

Visit the Coral Museum and San Giovanni del Toro
Walk Via Santa Chiara
Shop for ceramics
Relax with a spa treatment or aperitivo with a view

Day 5: Day Trip or Departure

Visit Scala or take a short drive to Minori/Maiori
Optional boat tour from Amalfi port
Head back to your base or airport

Packing List

Comfortable walking shoes (Ravello is hilly and cobblestoned)
Light clothing for summer, layers for spring/fall
A reusable water bottle
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Small backpack or tote for day trips
Swimsuit (if visiting Amalfi Coast beaches)
Camera or smartphone for photography
Evening outfit for dining or concerts

Where to Stay

Explore Ravello hotels

Fun Facts

Ravello has no train station, you can only reach it by road or footpaths.
Richard Wagner was so inspired by Villa Rufolo that it influenced a scene in Parsifal.
Ravello hosts Europe’s second-oldest music festival, founded in 1953.
The town was a favored retreat of Gore Vidal, who lived here for over 30 years.
Despite being high in the hills, Ravello is only about a 15-minute drive from the coast.

Important Things to Know Before You Go

Transportation: Best reached by bus, private transfer, or car from Amalfi, Salerno, or Naples.
Limited Parking: Parking is scarce and usually paid, consider using a transfer service.
Lots of Stairs: The village is pedestrian-friendly, but you’ll be doing lots of uphill and downhill walking.
Cash Still Useful: Many small shops and restaurants prefer cash over cards.
Quiet Evenings: Ravello is known for tranquility, not nightlife.

More Amazing Ravello Italy Photos

7 Budget Tips for Visiting Ravello Italy

Ravello may be known for luxury, but you can still enjoy it without overspending. Here’s how:

Visit in the Shoulder Season: April–May and September–October offer great weather and lower hotel rates (check hotels).
Stay Nearby: Accommodations in Minori, Scala, or Amalfi are more affordable and just a short bus ride or scenic walk away.
Use Public Transit: SITA buses from Amalfi or Salerno are cheap and convenient. Skip taxis unless necessary.
Picnic with a View: Grab fresh bread, cheese, and fruit from local markets and enjoy a scenic picnic in public gardens.
Focus on Free Experiences: Stroll Piazza Vescovado, hike to nearby towns, or explore local churches. Save paid attractions for the villas.
Eat Smart: Dine off the main square, look for lunch specials, or opt for early meals to avoid peak pricing.
Look for Combo Experiences: Ask about package deals for cooking classes, tastings, or hikes to save on activities (explore combo deals).

Final Thoughts

Ravello Italy isn’t just a destination, it’s a feeling. Suspended between the sea and the sky, this hillside haven offers a different pace of life, one rooted in beauty, tranquility, and artistic inspiration. Whether you’re exploring ancient villas, hiking lemon-scented trails, or watching the sunset from a garden terrace, Ravello will leave you with a sense of peace and wonder that few places can match. If you’re visiting the Amalfi Coast, don’t just pass through Ravello, stay, savor, and soak in its timeless charm.

Amalfi Coast Italy: 1st Time Visitor Guide