What to Do in Ravello: Top & Epic Things You’ll Love

Ravello is one of the dreamiest towns on the Amalfi Coast and completely took me by surprise!

While towns like Positano, Capri, and Sorrento often steal the spotlight, Ravello has its own kind of magic. Sitting high above the coastline, Ravello is a small town compared to the others—and honestly, a total dream. It has breathtaking views, peaceful vibes, and some of the most beautiful historic villas I’ve ever seen!

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If it’s your first time visiting or you’re planning a day trip, this guide has you covered. I’ve listed the best things to do in Ravello, along with tips on the best places to explore. You’ll also find advice on the best time to visit—especially during the summer months, when it gets busy in high season.

This charming coastal town is definitely worth visiting, whether you’re looking for stunning gardens, panoramic terraces, or just a great place to escape the crowds for a bit.

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Why Visit Ravello?

Ravello is truly a dreamy and peaceful little gem tucked away in the hills of the Amalfi Coast. Unlike some of the busier towns nearby, it has a quiet charm with fewer crowds that makes you want to slow down and just enjoy the moment. The town is known for its beautiful gardens, elegant historic villas, and for having some of the best views of the Amalfi Coast coastline. Even though it feels like a hidden escape, it’s a place that’s absolutely worth the effort to reach.

It’s about a 30-minute bus ride from Amalfi town, so it’s still very doable if you’re staying nearby. That said, getting there from other towns like Positano takes a bit more planning since Ravello doesn’t have a port or direct ferry access. (I’ve got a full section on that below to help make it easier!)

Once you’re there, though, you’ll love it. The streets are calm, the atmosphere is peaceful, and the spectacular views are something you won’t forget. If you’re looking for the perfect place to take a break from the busy coastline, this is it. The whole town feels like a movie set. If you’re planning your Amalfi Coast itinerary, this is one dreamy town you’ll want to add to the list.

8 Best and Epic Things to Do in Ravello

In this guide, I’m sharing the 8 best things to do in Ravello—from iconic historic villas and dreamy gardens to quiet spots with amazing views. Along the way, you’ll walk through medieval streets, garden villas, and ancient pathways. And you’ll absolutely fall in love with this peaceful hilltop town. It’s truly something special. Let’s get into it!

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1. Villa Cimbrone

If you only have time for one main attraction in Ravello, make it Villa Cimbrone. This is a stunning estate and is one of the town’s most iconic historic villas. Visiting here is hands down one of the most unforgettable spots on the Amalfi Coast. It has a very romantic atmosphere, lots of hidden sculptures, and elegant gardens that seem to stretch forever. 

Villa Cimbrone is tucked away in the hills and has the most peaceful surroundings and breathtaking views that seem like something out of a dream. You can also stay in the Villa Cimbrone hotel!

The highlight of Villa Cimbrone is definitely the Terrace of Infinity—a beautiful stone walkway decorated with statues, looking straight out over the Mediterranean Sea. This famous infinity terrace has one of the best views I’ve seen on the Amalfi Coast, hands down! 

But the views aren’t the only thing worth seeing here. The Villa Cimbrone Gardens are full of hidden paths, cute corners, and a few surprises—like a Gothic-style crypt, a cloister, and some really unique sculptures scattered throughout. You’ll find plenty to explore as you wander.

Highlights to look out for at Villa Cimbrone:

🌳 6-hectare gardens with hidden paths and quiet spaces
🌄 Terrace of Infinity with views of the Amalfi Coast and Mediterranean Sea
🏛️ The Cloister
🌌 Eve’s Grotta
🕯️ Gothic-style crypt
🏺 Temple of Bacchus
👤 Replica of Donatello’s David and Goliath statue

Entrance fee is €10, and it’s 100% worth it. You don’t need a tour—just take your time walking around. I went early in the morning, right when it opened, and it wasn’t crowded at all. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, look around, and enjoy views you’ll never forget!

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2. Villa Rufolo

Located right in the center of town, Villa Rufolo is also considered one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ravello. This historic villa dates back to the 13th century and was once home to a wealthy merchant family. You can actually spot its iconic tower as soon as you enter the main square. 

Once inside you’ll see a mix of Moorish, Norman, and Gothic architecture. It has beautiful gardens that are perfectly manicured, and terraces that overlook the coastline. It’s smaller than Villa Cimbrone, but it’s just as charming—and easier to reach if you’re short on time.

The highlight here is the panoramic garden terrace with colorful flowers, pine trees, and views that stretch all the way to the sea. It’s also the setting for Ravello’s famous summer music festival, where performances take place on a stage set above the cliffs.

You can explore the old stone walkways, admire the architecture, and even step into some of the original rooms of the villa. Since it’s located in the center of town, it’s a great first stop or something to squeeze in even if you only have a short visit.

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3. Duomo di Ravello (Ravello Cathedral)

Right across from Villa Rufolo in Piazza Duomo, is the Duomo di Ravello. This is a beautiful Romanesque cathedral dating all the way back to the 11th century. It might not look too grand from the outside, but once you step inside, you’ll be blown away. There are so many intricate mosaics, marble columns, and even a raised stone platform from the 12th century, supported by carved lions..

It’s peaceful, quiet, and a nice place to cool off and immerse yourself in some of Ravello’s deep history. There’s also a small museum inside with artifacts and artwork if you’re interested in a quick browse. It doesn’t take long to visit, so it’s easy to fit in while exploring the center of town.

4. Piazza Duomo

Piazza Duomo is Ravello’s main square in the center of town and a great starting point for exploring the town of Ravello. This is where you’ll see two of the most important landmarks—Villa Rufolo, which sits right at the entrance, and the Duomo di Ravello, a Romanesque cathedral dating back to the 11th century.

The square itself is peaceful and open, with a few cafés where you can relax or just people watch. It’s one of those simple yet charming spots that gives you a feel for Ravello’s local vibe.

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5. Scenic Promenade Behind Piazza Duomo

Right behind Piazza Duomo, there’s a quiet little promenade that feels like a hidden gem. It has a ton of trees and a few benches, and of course, spectacular views! You can also see the hills, the coastline, and rooftops all the way down to the sea. I grabbed a gelato from the square and just sat here for a bit—it’s the perfect spot where you can pause and relax.

6. Go Shopping: Ceramics, Limoncello, Art & More

One thing I really enjoyed doing in this beautiful picturesque town was just wandering around and checking out the little shops. You’ll see everything from colorful hand-painted ceramics and local art to bottles of limoncello, olive oil, and fun souvenirs. The ceramics here are especially beautiful—bright, detailed, and made by local artisans.

Most of the shops are near Piazza Duomo and along the nearby streets. Even if you’re not looking to buy anything, it’s still fun to browse. I ended up picking up a small ceramic plate and a tiny bottle of limoncello, and now every time I see them, it brings me right back to that sunny afternoon in Ravello.

7. Walk from Ravello to Atrani or Amalfi

If you’re up for a bit of adventure, there’s a downhill walk from Ravello to Atrani or Amalfi that takes about an hour. The path takes you through terraced hillsides covered in lemon trees, with amazing views along the way. It’s peaceful, quiet, and a great way to see the countryside at a slower pace. Just wear comfy shoes—the steps can be steep in some parts!

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8. Ravello Festival

If you’re visiting in the summer, the Ravello Music Festival is something really special to experience. It usually runs from July through August.

The festival will have many concerts, dance performances, and art events. All in the most stunning settings—like the gardens of Villa Rufolo or the modern cliffside Auditorium Oscar Niemeyer. 

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Travel Tips/Things to Know Before Visiting Ravello

Best Time to Visit Ravello

Planning when to go can make a big difference in your experience. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

April to June & September to October (shoulder season)

Spring in Ravello is such a nice time to visit. The weather is just right—not too hot, usually between 54–75°F (12–24°C)—and the town feels calm and relaxed. Flowers are in bloom, the views are extra pretty, and the crowds are way smaller compared to summer. It’s a great time to explore the historic villas and wander through many of the towns lush gardens.

July to August (high season)

Summer months in Ravello are the high season, and everything’s in full swing. The weather is hot and the town gets pretty busy with tourists. Hotels and restaurants are packed. Prices go up, and you’ll definitely need to make reservations ahead of time.

But if you don’t mind the crowds, it’s a fun time to visit. The vibe is lively, and events are happening all around town. And you might even catch musical performances if you’re around during the Ravello Music Festival season.

November to March (Off-Season)

November to February is the off-season in Ravello. It’s much quieter, and a lot of hotels and restaurants close for the winter. The weather is cooler, expect some rain. It’s not the best time if you’re hoping for that classic Amalfi Coast buzz, but if you’re looking for a super peaceful visit and don’t mind the slower pace, it can still be a nice (and budget-friendly) time to stop by.

Where to Stay in Ravello?

Ravello may be small, but it has some truly beautiful overnight options. From charming boutique B&Bs to elegant luxury hotels with spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast, there is something for everyone.

Staying overnight means you get to enjoy the town when it’s quiet—before the day-trippers arrive and after they leave. It’s a totally different experience in the early morning or evening. Here are a few options to check out:

How to Get to Ravello

Getting to Ravello takes a little planning—especially since it doesn’t have a port, so there are no direct ferries. But once you know your options for public transportation or booking a private transfer, it’s pretty straightforward. Here’s how to get there from some of the main towns along the Amalfi Coast:

From Amalfi: This is the easiest and most direct option. You can walk up (it takes about 1 hour and has some beautiful views), take the SITA bus (about 30 minutes), or hop in a taxi, which takes around 10 minutes.

From Positano: Take a ferry or SITA bus to Amalfi, then transfer to another bus heading up to Ravello. A taxi directly from Positano will take around 45 minutes to 1 hour.

From Sorrento: You’ll need to take a ferry or SITA bus to Amalfi, then catch the bus up to Ravello. A direct taxi can take between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.

From Praiano: Take a bus to Amalfi, then transfer to the Ravello bus. A taxi ride takes about 30–40 minutes.

TIP: Make sure to buy your bus tickets in advance at local Tabacchi shops (they’re marked with a big “T” sign). Buses can fill up quickly during high season, so try to travel early in the day if you can!

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How to Get Around Ravello

One of the best things about Ravello is how easy it is to get around. The town center is small and super walkable—you can reach all the main sights like Piazza Duomo, Villa Rufolo, and Villa Cimbrone on foot.

If you’re staying near the center, everything’s just a short walk away. And honestly, walking through the quiet streets and little alleyways is part of the charm—you’ll stumble on views, gardens, and hidden corners you’d probably miss otherwise.

Is Ravello Safe to Visit?

Yes—Ravello is very safe and has a calm, relaxed atmosphere. It’s a small town with very little traffic, especially in the center, which is mostly pedestrian-only. As a female traveler, I walked around a lot and always felt completely comfortable.

Like anywhere, just use basic common sense, but overall, it’s one of those places where you can truly relax and not worry.

Language: Do I Need to Speak Italian?

You don’t need to speak Italian to visit Ravello, but knowing a few basic words definitely helps. Most people working in hotels, restaurants, and shops speak at least some English—especially in the town square and around tourist spots. A simple “buongiorno” or “grazie” always goes a long way and is appreciated. I didn’t have any issues, and everyone was super friendly and helpful!

How Much Time Do I Need in Ravello?

You can see the highlights of Ravello on a day trip or via guided tour, especially if you’re visiting from nearby towns like Amalfi or Positano. Places like Villa Cimbrone, Villa Rufolo, and the center of town are all close together and easy to walk between.

But if you want to take your time, enjoy a long lunch, or catch a concert during the Ravello Festival, staying overnight is totally worth it. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a quieter home base to explore the Amalfi Coast—Ravello feels more peaceful than some of the busier towns nearby.

Why Ravello Deserves a Spot on Your Itinerary?

Ravello might be small, but it leaves a big impression. From beautiful gardens and historic villas to cultural events and peaceful streets, this little town has a charm that’s hard to beat. It’s a great spot to slow down, marvel at the views, and experience a quieter side of the Amalfi Coast.

You might come for the rich history, the best restaurants, or to enjoy a relaxing day away from the crowds. Either way, Ravello is one of those places in southern Italy that truly feels special.

I hope this guide helps you plan your visit and enjoy everything this dreamy town has to offer.

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