Ravello, Italy Travel Guide

Discover Ravello, the serene jewel of the Amalfi Coast, known for its stunning villas, lush gardens, and rich cultural heritage. Perfect for relaxation, culture, and adventure.

Perched high above the glittering waters of the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is a serene haven that offers breathtaking views, lush gardens, and a rich cultural heritage. Known for its quiet charm and elegance, this small Italian town promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Ravello is famous for its stunning villas, particularly Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone. These historic residences boast beautiful gardens that provide panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea. A stroll through these gardens is like walking through a dream, with vibrant flowers, ancient sculptures, and the scent of citrus trees filling the air. The town's central Piazza del Vescovado is a hub of activity, featuring quaint cafes, traditional shops, and the impressive Ravello Cathedral. The cathedral, with its unique blend of Moorish and Norman architecture, houses exquisite mosaics and a stunning pulpit. It's a perfect spot to soak in the local culture and enjoy a leisurely afternoon. Ravello is also renowned for its music festivals, most notably the Ravello Festival, which attracts world-class musicians and performers. The festival's open-air concerts, held in the gardens of Villa Rufolo, offer a magical experience under the stars. The town's artistic vibe is further enhanced by numerous art galleries and craft shops. For those who love nature, the nearby hiking trails provide a fantastic way to explore the rugged beauty of the Amalfi Coast. The Path of the Gods is a must-try, offering spectacular views and a connection to the area's natural splendor. Whether you're seeking relaxation, culture, or adventure, Ravello has something to offer everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ravello.

Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the gardens at their most peaceful.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring Ravello's hilly terrain and cobbled streets.
Check the schedule of the Ravello Festival in advance to catch a live music performance during your visit.
Try the local limoncello, a lemon liqueur that is a specialty of the Amalfi Coast.
Take a guided tour of the Ravello Cathedral to learn more about its fascinating history and architecture.
Plan a hike on the Path of the Gods for breathtaking views and an immersive nature experience.

Explore Ravello: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Ravello

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Amalfi Coast

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast, where charming villages meet azure waters and rich Italian culture flourishes.

4.7

Archaeological Park of Pompeii

Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and witness the astonishing preservation of Roman life frozen in time by Mount Vesuvius.

4.7

Sansevero Chapel Museum

Discover the artistic wonder of Sansevero Chapel Museum in Naples, featuring exquisite sculptures and a rich tapestry of history and spirituality.

4.7

Ovo Castle

Discover the rich history and stunning views at Ovo Castle, a must-visit landmark in Naples that embodies the city's ancient charm.

4.6

Best landmarks in Ravello

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Villa Rufolo

Explore the breathtaking Villa Rufolo in Ravello, a historical landmark with stunning views and exquisite gardens, perfect for culture and nature lovers.

4.6

Mount Vesuvius

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Mount Vesuvius, the famous volcano that shaped ancient Rome and offers stunning views of Naples.

4.3

Villa Cimbrone

Discover the charm of Villa Cimbrone, a luxurious hotel in Ravello offering stunning gardens, breathtaking views, and rich Italian heritage.

4.7

Villa Cimbrone Gardens

Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Villa Cimbrone Gardens in Ravello, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

4.8

Best restaurants in Ravello

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Da Maria

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Da Maria in Amalfi – where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

4.6

Ristorante Giardiniello Minori - Costa d’Amalfi

Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Giardiniello Minori - Costa d’Amalfi, where every dish tells a story.

4.4

Mimí Pizzeria&Cucina /Mimí b&b

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Mimí Pizzeria&Cucina in Ravello—where delicious pizzas meet warm hospitality.

4.5

Trattoria Pizzeria Cumpa' Cosimo

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Pizzeria Cumpa' Cosimo in Ravello – where every meal tells a story.

3.9

Best bars in Ravello

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Mimí Pizzeria&Cucina /Mimí b&b

Experience authentic Italian cuisine and cozy accommodations in the heart of Ravello at Mimí Pizzeria&Cucina, a must-visit for every traveler.

4.5

Ristorante Vittoria

Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Ravello at Ristorante Vittoria, where each meal is a culinary delight amidst stunning Amalfi Coast views.

4.4

Babel wine bar bistrò & art

Experience the essence of Italian cuisine and art at Babel Wine Bar Bistrò & Art in Ravello, where every meal is a celebration.

4.6

Garden Hotel Ristorante

Discover the charm of Ravello at Garden Hotel Ristorante, where exquisite dining meets breathtaking views in a serene setting.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Ravello

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Babel wine bar bistrò & art

Experience the best of Italian cuisine at Babel Wine Bar Bistrò & Art in Ravello, where art meets gastronomy in a stunning Amalfi Coast setting.

4.6

Palazzo Avino

Experience the epitome of luxury at Palazzo Avino, a stunning hotel in Ravello, offering exquisite dining, a serene spa, and breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast.

4.7

Duomo Caffè Ravello Costa di Amalfi

Discover the enchanting flavors and stunning views at Duomo Caffè, the heart of Ravello's café culture on the Amalfi Coast.

3.8

Caffè Calce 2

Experience Italian hospitality at Caffè Calce 2, a cozy bar in Ravello offering exquisite drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.

3.7

Best shops in Ravello

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Designer Outlet La Reggia

Discover fashion and culinary delights at Designer Outlet La Reggia in Marcianise, where shopping meets a dining experience.

4.4

Galleria Umberto I

Discover Galleria Umberto I, a stunning blend of history and modern shopping in the heart of Naples, Italy.

4.6

Mercato Caramanico

Explore Mercato Caramanico, Naples' vibrant market, and indulge in local flavors, fresh produce, and unique artisanal crafts.

4.2

Antichi Sapori d'Amalfi

Explore the essence of Amalfi with unique souvenirs, local liquors, and exquisite pottery at Antichi Sapori d'Amalfi.

4.2

Explore Ravello on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Ravello, mapped for you.

Ravello Essentials

Ravello is located in the Campania region of Italy, on the Amalfi Coast. The nearest major airport is Naples International Airport (NAP), approximately 60 kilometers away. From Naples, you can take a train to Salerno or Sorrento, followed by a bus or a taxi to Ravello. Alternatively, you can hire a private car or use shuttle services directly from the airport. For those already on the Amalfi Coast, local SITA buses and ferry services are available from nearby towns such as Amalfi and Positano.
Ravello is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. However, for those wishing to explore the surrounding areas, local SITA buses provide connections to nearby towns like Amalfi and Salerno. Taxis are also available but can be expensive. Renting a car provides flexibility, although navigating the narrow, winding roads can be challenging. Parking can be limited and costly in the high season. Consider using ferries for a scenic and stress-free way to travel to other coastal towns.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments, markets, and in remote areas. ATMs are available in Ravello, but be mindful of potential fees for international transactions. It’s a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
Ravello is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, especially in crowded areas and during peak tourist season. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Ravello, but it’s always best to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings. Emergency numbers include 112 for police, 118 for medical emergencies, and 115 for fire services.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the general emergency number in Italy. For medical emergencies, dial 118. Ravello has a local medical clinic, but for more serious conditions, you may need to travel to the hospital in Salerno or Naples. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. Always carry your travel insurance details with you, as it is recommended to have insurance that covers medical emergencies while traveling.
Fashion: Do dress elegantly; Italians appreciate style. Avoid overly casual attire when dining out. Religion: Do dress modestly when visiting churches. Cover shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do validate your bus ticket before boarding. Don’t speak loudly or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don’t rush meals; dining is a leisurely activity in Italy.
To experience Ravello like a local, take time to enjoy the town’s tranquil atmosphere. Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone for stunning gardens and views. Attend a concert at the Ravello Festival if visiting in the summer. Wander through the narrow streets and engage with local artisans in shops. Try dining at family-run trattorias for authentic culinary experiences. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a coffee or aperitivo in the town square, Piazza Vescovado, where you can people-watch and soak in the local life.

When is the best time to visit Ravello?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Ravello

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Ravello. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [a-ree-veh-dehr-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [no]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore
  [pair fah-voh-reh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [grah-tsyeh]
- Excuse me/SorryScusa
  [skoo-sah]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stai]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [par-lee een-gleh-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [non kah-pee-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menu, per favore
  [vohr-reh-ee veh-deh-reh eel men-oo, pair fah-voh-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non mahn-joh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-reh-ee pah-gah-reh, pair fah-voh-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
- Go away!Vattene!
  [vaht-teh-neh]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kee-ah-mah lah poh-lee-tsya]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un medico!
  [kee-ah-mah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-no pehr-soh]
- I'm illSto male
  [stoh mah-leh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-reh-ee kohm-prah-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwahr-dahn-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh troh-poh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoy ab-bah-sah-reh eel preh-tso]
- What time is it?Che ora è?
  [keh oh-rah eh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
- Half past (10)Sono le dieci e mezza
  [soh-no leh dyeh-chee eh meht-sah]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
- EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
- 1Uno
  [oo-no]
- 2Due
  [dweh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [sey]
- 7Sette
  [seh-teh]
- 8Otto
  [oh-toh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [dyeh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dov'è il/l'...
  [doh-veh eel/ehl]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-ree-tso]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwoy mohs-trahr-mee (sool-lah mahp-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh pahs-sah eel prohs-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-yet-toh (pair)]

History of Ravello

Ravello, perched high above the Amalfi Coast, was founded in the 5th century as a safe haven for citizens seeking refuge from barbarian invasions. It quickly grew in prominence due to its strategic location and the fertile lands surrounding it.
During the 9th and 10th centuries, Ravello flourished as part of the Maritime Republic of Amalfi. The town became a significant trading hub, known for its well-established merchant class and impressive architecture. This prosperity is evident in the construction of grand buildings and churches.
One of the most notable landmarks in Ravello, Villa Rufolo, was constructed in the 13th century by the wealthy Rufolo family. The villa is renowned for its stunning gardens and panoramic views, and it has hosted numerous famous visitors, including Richard Wagner, who was inspired to write part of his opera 'Parsifal' here.
Founded in 1086, the Cathedral of Ravello (Duomo di Ravello) stands as a testament to the town's medieval importance. The cathedral is known for its impressive bronze doors and the beautiful pulpit, adorned with intricate mosaics that depict biblical scenes.
Although Ravello experienced a decline in the late Middle Ages, it saw a cultural revival during the Renaissance. Wealthy families continued to commission art and architecture, contributing to the town's cultural heritage. Several Renaissance-era buildings still stand today, showcasing the town's rich artistic history.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Ravello became a popular destination for British and European aristocrats undertaking the Grand Tour. The town's picturesque scenery and historic sites attracted numerous writers, artists, and musicians, further cementing its reputation as a cultural haven.
Since 1953, the Ravello Festival has been a significant cultural event, celebrating the town's artistic heritage. The festival features concerts, dance performances, and art exhibitions, drawing visitors from around the world to experience Ravello's unique charm and creativity.