If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Ravello - Amalfi's hidden gem

Stunning Views | A pretty town | Fabulous gardens | Awesome Food

To many travelers, Ravello on the Amalfi Coast of Italy, is still a hidden gem , as they only visit the bigger towns like Positano, Sorrento, and Amalfi. 

The mistake many visitors to the Amalfi Coast make is to go by ferry and then, as they arrive in the bigger towns along the coast, they tend to only explore the parts of town that are near to where the ferry stops.  But, if you take the time to stay for a while and explore, you’ll find fabulous places with extravagant views.   (I don’t have other words or enough words to describe the views from Ravello.  LOL  It is simply spectacular.)

Yes, you will be walking a lot and yes you will be climbing stairs like crazy, but it is worth it.  Climb to the top, set aside enough time, and be open to new experiences that might not be part of your regular travel guidebook or booklet.

View from Villa Maria in Ravello places to stay

The view from Villa Maria – a bit more on where to stay below…

visit Ravello on the Amalfi Coast in Italy
Travel Tips
  • Bring your most comfortable, regular walking shoes – don’t buy new ones as you will be walking quite a lot.
  • Bring your own water bottle and save on buying water, as you can get free clean drinkable water from the fountains.
  • If you go by car, get a taxi. The road is extremely narrow, and you must have nerves of steel to navigate your way through.  Taking a taxi means a lot less stress on getting there.  (well, quite frankly getting anywhere along the Amalfi Coast…  LOL)

What to do in Ravello | What to see and Experience

Ideas for a perfect day out in Ravello
Ravello where to stay what to do best things to do

Ravello is all about small village charm, stunning views, and a combination of town life and nature. 

You’ll find yourself walking in beautiful streets with Oleander trees with pink and white flowers, and enjoying hot summer afternoons under shaded trees with sweeping views in beautiful gardens.

Start your day early.  This way you’ll avoid the crowds and the tourists that might come in later.  This is a travel tip for the whole of the Amalfi Coast, not just Ravello.

  • Start your day with a good breakfast and cappuccino in the beautiful piazza (the main town square in front of the Cathedral has a pretty place where you can spend some time), because you’re going to need it. The Amalfi coast is all about climbing stairs and walking up and down hills, as it is situated on an extremely steep mountain slope.

Can I have a Cappuccino?

I often get the question: What is it with Italians and drinking Cappuccino in the morning?  Can I order one?  Is it customary, or not allowed at all?  My answer is:  Yes, you can definitely have a cappuccino in the morning in Italy. In fact, it’s a popular choice for breakfast among Italians. Traditional Italian breakfast typically consists of a pastry (such as a croissant or brioche) and a coffee drink, often a cappuccino. Italians typically enjoy a cappuccino in the morning and switch to espresso or other coffee varieties later in the day. However, it’s worth noting that in Italy, it’s considered less common to order a cappuccino after 11 am, as it’s believed that the combination of milk and coffee can be heavier on the stomach. So, if you’re in Italy, go ahead and savor a delicious cappuccino to start your day!

Ravello is famous for its ceramics best souvenirs in Amalfi

Explore the ceramic shops.  Ceramiche Cosmolena is a beautiful place to stop.  Their ceramics are really good quality and they have been in business for more than 60 years.  So, it is quality and excellent craftmanship you’ll get.

  • Buy ceramics to take home.  Yes, LOL – I know – my suitcase wouldn’t take everything I would have loved to buy, but at least buy something small.  After all, Ravello is known as the “capital of ceramics” and you get the most stunning ceramics here.  The options are endless.

  • Take a cooking class: However – you can do this from home when your visit is done.  Spend the time now going outdoors and enjoying the local scenery.  Then book an online cooking class with Eatwith. Which is ever so much fun and relive the amazing cuisine of this spectacular region in Italy.

Food

  • Indulge in Local Cuisine: Sample delicious regional dishes and local wines in charming restaurants.
  • Something cold: Stop at Fruteria Gelateria Yogurteria – for a smoothy or fruit salad in summer.

Warm Caprese Salad

Try something different at home.

For something different, try our Warm Caprese Salad, at home during the winter months.

3 Dishes you must try

  • Spaghetti alle Vongole: This classic Italian pasta dish features spaghetti cooked with fresh clams, garlic, white wine, olive oil, and parsley. The combination of tender clams and flavorsome broth creates a delightful seafood experience.
  • Caprese Salad: A simple yet iconic dish, the Caprese Salad showcases the flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt. It’s a refreshing and light starter that celebrates the beauty of fresh Mediterranean ingredients.
  • Lemon Delights: Ravello and the Amalfi Coast are famous for their luscious lemons, so make sure to try some lemon-infused treats. Lemon sorbet, lemon granita, or the famous lemon cake known as “Torta Caprese al Limone” are all delightful options that showcase the region’s citrus flavors.
Explore and discover

Best / Top 10 things to do in Ravello, Italy

  • Visit Villa Rufolo: Explore a historic villa with stunning gardens and breathtaking coastal views. The Villa Rufolo Gardens are part of the historic Villa Rufolo, a 13th-century villa that is one of the main attractions in Ravello. The gardens are open to the public and offer stunning views of the Amalfi Coast, colorful flower displays, and beautiful landscaping. The Villa Rufolo Gardens are known for their tranquility and are a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
  • Attend a Concert at Villa Cimbrone: Enjoy live music in a captivating setting of gardens and vistas. The gardens are especially beautiful in spring with all the Wisterias in full bloom.
  • Explore Duomo di Ravello: Marvel at the ancient cathedral’s architecture, mosaics, and panoramic views.
  • Wander Ravello’s Town: Stroll through charming streets, shops, and art galleries.
  • Visit Ceramiche Cosmolena: Discover exquisite ceramics – as mentioned above, this is the place to visit for ceramic shopping. But there are more shops that sell equally pretty stuff.
  • Relax at Villa Eva: Unwind in a beautiful villa with lush gardens and a serene atmosphere. It is also a stunning wedding venue – so keep this in mind for future reference…
  • Photo opportunities: Perched high on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, Ravello provides panoramic vistas of the coastline, including the two charming towns of Minori and Maiori. From various viewpoints in Ravello, such as Villa Rufolo Gardens or Villa Cimbrone, you can admire the scenic beauty of Minori and Maiori as they sit along the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The views offer a captivating glimpse into the coastal landscape and add to the allure of Ravello as a destination.
  • Madonna dell’ospedale – Chiesa A chapel in a cave: Keeping in mind that it was once a hospital, it is now kind of an unusual place to visit.  The chapel is situated along the scenic road that connects Ravello to the neighboring town of Scala. It is positioned on the side of the road, and you can easily spot it while driving or walking along the route. The exact address may vary, but if you are in Ravello and inquire locally, people will be able to provide you with precise directions to Madonna dell’Ospedale.
  • Explore Scala: Explore the neighboring medieval village with its historic charm.
Path of the Gods Hiking on the Amalfi Coast in Italy Tips
  • Hike the Path of the Gods: Experience scenic trails with breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast. – However, take note that this route has now become a ‘bucket list’ item for people visiting Positano, etc. There are many other routes you can take that have equally beautiful vistas.  If you want to do this hike, do it early morning or late afternoon – maybe an hour before sunset.
Where to stay

Our Top 5 places to stay in Ravello

You can stay in Ravello:  Book your accommodation at one of these beautiful places and enjoy the local vibe.  It is central enough to be an amazing and peaceful overnight destination.  It is off the beaten track, and you can explore the Amalfi Coast during the daytime.  

Best views in Amali Ravello is it worth visiting hidden gem of the Amalfi Coast in Italy

This is the spot:  You might have seen many fabulous photos on the internet of Amalfi and wondered “Where was that photo taken?”.  Well, come to Ravello and see for yourself.

Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast Ravello as a first choice the best places to stay

Stay in 5-Star luxury.  It is without a doubt one of the finest hotels you’ll ever stay in. 

The Belvedere Restaurant serves traditional Italian specialities and the Pool Grill is the ideal spot for a light lunch and a taste of Italian pizza.

During the summer, the property offers complimentary boat excursions along the coast, as well as a free shuttle to Amalfi and Positano.  As a bonus, the hotel is also pet-friendly.

This is where the photo was taken on the Amalfi coast

Hotel Villa Maria

beautiful places to stay near Positano Amalfi in Ravello

Hotel Villa Maria is beautiful in spring and has a restaurant that offers stunning views.  The organic gardens of Villa Maria are also worth visiting in the summertime.

Palazzo Avino

5-Star Accommodation.  Speaking English, Spanish, French, and Italian.  Centrally located to main attractions.

The best place to stay on the Amalfi Coast Where to stay star hotel

Hotel Parsifal

Best accommodation Amalfi Coast Italy Best places to stay Most Beautiful places

The Parsifal Hotel features a traditional restaurant, serving Mediterranean cuisine in a beautiful setting.

Where to eat and stay on the Amalfi Coast Ravello

Casa Chiarina

Your home away from home with breathtaking views right from your balcony.

The best top places to stay on the Amalfi Coast Ravello Accommodation where to stay

Accommodation

More in Ravello
Ravello visit the Amalfi Coast Hidden gem in Italy most beautiful places to visit in Italy near Positano

There are several towns near Ravello where you can find hotels to stay. Here are three popular options:

  • Amalfi: Located just a short distance from Ravello, Amalfi is a vibrant coastal town known for its historic center, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches. It offers a range of hotels, from luxury resorts to charming boutique accommodations.

  • Positano: Situated a bit further along the Amalfi Coast, Positano is renowned for its colorful cliffside houses, narrow streets, and stunning views. It is a popular destination for luxury travelers and offers a variety of upscale hotels and resorts.

  • Maiori: Located to the east of Ravello, Maiori is a picturesque coastal town with a long sandy beach and a pleasant promenade. It is a quieter alternative to the more crowded Amalfi and Positano and offers a selection of hotels, including family-friendly options.

These towns provide convenient bases for exploring the Amalfi Coast while enjoying their unique charm and amenities.

 

Do note:  Many of the hotels are closed during the off-season.  Check before you go – book in advance.

Ravello Villa Cimbrone best pretty wedding venues
Villa Cimbrone
  • Villa Cimbrone is a renowned wedding venue and an exquisite location for special events. One of its standout features is the stunning Cloister area, with its captivating pillars that create a picturesque backdrop for photos. The timeless beauty of the architecture, combined with the scenic views of the Amalfi Coast, makes Villa Cimbrone an enchanting setting for romantic celebrations. Couples and photographers often find the Cloisters and their magnificent pillars to be an ideal spot for capturing memorable moments and creating lasting memories.
  • However, it is also the perfect place to spend some time while you’re staying or visiting Ravello. Immerse yourself in the local charm of Ravello at Villa Cimbrone. In springtime wander through the enchanting Wisteria and Hydrangea pathways of Via del Menso, known as the “Strada dell’Immensa” in Italian.  Follow this road to reach the Infinity Terrace, which offers the most famous and fabulous photo opportunities. Capture the perfect Instagram moments amidst the stunning backdrop.  Take pleasure in the fragrant rose garden, indulge in the delectable offerings of the restaurant, and leisurely explore the gardens adorned with statues and breathtaking vistas. Villa Cimbrone is a serene haven where you can spend a quiet morning or afternoon, just like the locals often do.