Ravello Travel Guide – Best things to do in Ravello on the Amalfi Coast

While all of the seaside towns on Italy’s famous southern coast are undeniably beautiful, Ravello captured my heart above all. I visited for the first time in the summer of 2022 and was completely enchanted by its authentic local feel.

Nestled high up in the mountains above Amalfi and Minori, this charming town offers a refreshing break from the bustling tourist areas below.

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Although Ravello is tiny, the town offers some amazing experiences that should be included in your travel plans. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of recommendations for what to do in Ravello to make sure you don’t miss any of the highlights!

Where to stay in Ravello

Ravello is a small town, so you really can’t go wrong with choosing where to stay! All of the accommodations are close to the main piazza, and many offer stunning views of the Amalfi Coast. 

Hotel Villa Cimbrone – HISTORIC GLAM
Feeling fancy? Hotel Villa Cimbrone is your spot. This historic hotel, dating back to the 11th century, has welcomed stars like Greta Garbo and Winston Churchill.

Hotel Caruso – AN ITALIAN DREAM
From luxurious rooms and an infinity pool with the most breathtaking views, the Belmond Caruso Hotel in Ravello is an Italian dream come true.

La Dolce Vita Ravello – A SWEET STAY
Perfectly located, these apartments are an ideal base for Amalfi Coast adventures. Guido, an exceptional host, always goes the extra mile to ensure a fantastic stay for his guests.

Best things to do in Ravello Italy

One of my favorite ways to get to know a new place is to join a guided walking tour with a local, so that’s exactly what I did in Ravello. Not only does this help me get my bearings and learn about the history and culture of the destination, but it also introduces me to hidden local spots.

This 2-hour guided walking tour of Ravello is the ideal introduction for first time visitors. Raffelle is an amazing guide and storyteller that will take you to all the must-see sights while sharing fascinating stories along the way.

After the tour, get to know the town on your own through the experiences below.

1. Explore on an Amalfi Coast boat tour

My number one activity recommendation when visiting the Amalfi Coast is to go on a boat tour! This is the absolute best way to see the stunning coastline, hidden beaches and grottos.

If you’re staying in Ravello, you’ll need to make your way down to Amalfi Town before you can enjoy the crystal clear waters. To get there, you can take the local bus, hike down, or grab a taxi.

Once you arrive, there are plenty of boat tour operators offering a variety of tours to choose from, but these are my favorites:

This Amalfi to Capri private boat tour is the best option for a more personalized experience. Your local captain will tailor the entire day to your group, including swimming stops at private islands and time to discover colorful seaside villages.

To experience the thrill of the sea without the luxury price tag, you can join this small group sailing tour. You’ll get to visit highlights like Pandora’s Cave and Fiordo di Furore while sipping on Italian aperitifs. Plus, you’ll enjoy plenty of swimming time!

2. Stroll through Piazza Centrale

This is the main Ravello town square and where daily life takes place. With its charming atmosphere and beautiful architecture, it’s the perfect spot to sit and people watch or enjoy a cappuccino at one of the outdoor cafes. 

You’ll also find the Duomo here, an art gallery, a few restaurants, and the entrance to Villa Rufolo.

3. Admire the Duomo di Ravello

Nestled right in the heart of the main square, the Ravello cathedral back to 1086.

Its simple facade makes it easy to walk past without a second glance, but trust me, you’ll want to step into this church. The real magic is in the details—think striking bronze doors and mosaics inside that dazzle with their intricacy and beauty.

Entrance to the church itself is free. However, if you’re like me and love digging a little deeper, there’s a museum and art gallery within the church with an entrance fee of just 3 EUR (bring cash!).

4. Sit in the garden at Villa Rufolo

When it comes to Ravello things to do, visiting Villa Rufolo was my favorite! This historic villa, built by a wealthy merchant in the 13th century, was once used as a banquet hall for popes and kings.

As the years passed, the villa deteriorated, and was purchased by Sir Francis Neville Reid in 1853 who restored it to its former glory. Today, you can walk through the gorgeous Mediterranean gardens, soak in unbeatable views of the Amalfi Coast, and even catch a concert or performance at the open-air auditorium.

Be sure to also pop into the main tower of Villa Rufolo which houses an interactive museum where you can learn more about its history.

5. Wander through Villa Cimbrone

Similar to Villa Rufolo, a visit to Cimbrone Villa Ravello is a must.

This medieval palace dates back to the 11th century and has a rich history as a residence for the aristocratic Acconciajoco family. In 1904, it was purchased by Ernest William Beckett who transformed it into a luxurious hotel that attracted famous artists, writers, and politicians.

The hotel still operates today, and you can even stay there to experience the magnificence of the villa. But even if you’re not a guest, you can still visit the stunning gardens that are open to the public.

Villa Cimbrone’s gardens are often referred to as some of the most beautiful in Italy. The carefully manicured lawns, vibrant flowers, and impressive sculptures create a peaceful atmosphere that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale.

A major highlight of the gardens is the famous Terrace of Infinity, where you can catch one of the most unique views in all of Ravello.

6. Shop for ceramics

The Amalfi Coast is known for its elegant hand-painted ceramics, and Ravello is the perfect place to pick up a few pieces. Visit one of the many shops lining the streets to browse through multicolored plates, bowls, vases, and more.

My favorite shop was Ceramiche D’Arte Carmela, a truly stunning store with some of the most beautiful ceramics I’ve ever seen! The shop owners are very helpful and welcoming, and will even help you arrange the shipment of larger pieces to your home. 

7. Walk the Ravello to Amalfi Trail

One of the best things to do in Ravello is to walk the trail down to Amalfi Town. This 1.5 hour hike takes you through orchards, past lemon trees and vineyards, all the way down to the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. 

To get to the start of the trail, head toward the entrance of Villa Cimbrone and then west toward the village of Atrani.

The trail isn’t exactly well marked, but as long as you’re heading downhill you’re going in the right direction. Make sure to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes!

How to Get to Ravello

Getting from Naples to Ravello is relatively easy. The closest airport to Ravello is the Naples Capodichino International Airport (NAP), and is about 59.4 km (36.9 miles), or a 1 hour drive away. Once you land at the airport, there are a few ways you can get to the town of Ravello:

By Car: The drive to Ravello offers breathtaking scenery, but the coastal roads are very narrow and windy, so be prepared for a challenging drive. Additionally, finding parking in Ravello can be particularly challenging, especially in the peak season.

Private Transfer: Enjoy a hassle-free arrival in Ravello by booking a private transfer from the Naples International Airport. No fussing with Google Maps, haggling over taxi fares, or navigating public transportation with your luggage. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive as you’re taken directly to your hotel.

By Ferry: Because of its hilltop location, you cannot take a ferry directly to Ravello. You can, however, take a ferry to Amalfi Town or Minori, and then continue with a taxi.

By Public Transportation: This route is the most budget-friendly choice for traveling from Naples to Amalfi, though it might take a bit longer. Start with a train journey from Naples Central Station heading to Sorrento. From there, you have the option to either catch a bus or take a ferry to Amalfi, followed by an additional bus ride from Amalfi to Ravello.

Getting Around Ravello

The charm of Ravello is best discovered on foot. This quaint town is perfectly sized for walking, allowing you to take in its beauty at your own pace. But you’ll probably want to visit some other towns in the area – you are on the Amalfi Coast after all! For these excursions, there are several transportation options available.

• SITA Bus: The local SITA bus is the most affordable way to travel between towns on the Amalfi Coast, including Ravello and neighboring destinations like Amalfi and Minori. You can view the full bus schedule here.
• Taxi: While taxis offer a quick and direct route to your destination, they’re on the pricier side. If convenience is your priority and budget isn’t a concern, this could be your go-to option.
• Scooter Rental: Embrace the local vibe by renting a scooter! This is a fun and practical way to explore, giving you more flexibility than a car and allowing you to park and hop off wherever you please.
• Guided Tours: For a stress-free exploration, check out this all-day sightseeing tour. Guided tours will take care of all the details and logistics for you, so all you have to do is enjoy the sights and sounds of the Amalfi Coast. Most tours depart from Amalfi or Positano, so you’ll need to take a bus or taxi to the meeting point.

Best Restaurants in Ravello Italy

• Osteria Ravello: When it comes to the best restaurants in Ravello, look no further than this quintessential Italian restaurant. Osteria Ravello has only a few tables, but the atmosphere is super special. The family that runs the restaurant is very generous and kind, making you feel right at home. Be sure to try the eggplant lasagne and tiramisu!
• Ristorante Vittoria: Exceptionally delicious Italian food made with fresh ingredients and served on the prettiest ceramic dishes. Try the grilled octopus and zucchini flowers stuffed with ricotta cheese, and don’t forget to make a reservation in advance!
• Pizzeria A Gradillo: Just a 5-minute walk away from the Duomo, this pizza place serves up some of the best pizza I’ve had in Italy! They primarily do take out, but there are a few tables inside. Mara and her family are incredibly welcoming and make everything from scratch. Their margherita pizza is to die for!
• Belvedere Restaurant: Upscale dining experience with the best view in Ravello! This restaurant is absolutely outstanding, from the setting to the impeccable service. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but their homemade ravioli must-try.

Best time to Visit Ravello

May and September are the best months for visiting the picturesque Ravello town. You’ll enjoy the perks of fewer tourists than in summer, meaning more space for you to wander the charming streets and gardens in Ravello. Not to mention, accommodation prices tend to be more affordable during these times.

Is Ravello worth visiting?

Ravello is absolutely worth visiting! This darling town has a more local and authentic feel to it compared to other destinations, like Positano, along the Amalfi Coast.

While it does draw in a fair share of visitors during the summer months, it never feels overcrowded, which is exactly why I love it so much.