Visiting Ravello

Ravello Travel guide

The Amalfi Coast, Capri & Naples: Easy Planning, Local Writers, Itineraries, Helpful Maps (Full-color Travel Guide)

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Giuseppe Baldassarri Italian travel blogger

Review of Ravello.

Here are some of the top attractions you might consider visiting:

Ravello is a small town located in the southern part of Italy, specifically in the Campania region. It is situated in the province of Salerno and is known for its stunning views of the Amalfi Coast and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Ravello is perched on a hilltop, providing visitors with panoramic vistas and a tranquil atmosphere.

One of the most famous attractions in Ravello is the Villa Cimbrone, a historic estate with beautiful gardens and breathtaking views. The villa dates back to the 11th century and has been visited by many notable figures throughout history. The gardens of Villa Cimbrone are renowned for their colorful flowers, statues, and the Terrace of Infinity, which offers an unparalleled view of the coastline.

Another notable attraction in Ravello is the Villa Rufolo, a medieval villa that also features stunning gardens and breathtaking views. The villa is famous for its annual Ravello Festival, which showcases a variety of music and arts performances.

Ravello is also known for its charming town center, which features narrow streets, quaint shops, and local restaurants. Visitors can explore the town's historic churches, such as the Cathedral of Ravello, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

Due to its picturesque setting and rich cultural heritage, Ravello has been a source of inspiration for many artists and musicians over the years. It continues to attract tourists from around the world who come to enjoy its natural beauty and cultural treasures. 

Here are some of his reviews of the best attractions that you can book:

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Ravello: where to stay?

Ravello offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are a few recommendations for places to stay in Ravello:

1. Belmond Hotel Caruso: This luxury hotel is located in a former 11th-century palace and offers stunning views of the Amalfi Coast. It features elegant rooms, a beautiful infinity pool, a spa, and exceptional service.

2. Hotel Villa Cimbrone: Situated near the famous Villa Cimbrone gardens, this historic hotel provides a charming and romantic atmosphere. It offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant with panoramic views, and access to the stunning gardens.

3. Palazzo Avino: Formerly known as Palazzo Sasso, this 12th-century villa turned boutique hotel offers luxurious accommodations and breathtaking views. It features elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a spa.

4. Hotel Rufolo: Located in the heart of Ravello near the Villa Rufolo, this hotel provides comfortable rooms and a convenient location. It offers a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, a restaurant, and easy access to the town center.

5. Villa Piedimonte: Situated just outside Ravello's town center, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms and a peaceful setting. It features a swimming pool, a garden, and a restaurant with panoramic views.

These are just a few options, and there are many other hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals available in Ravello. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure availability and secure the best rates. 

ACCOMODATIONS

Booking.com

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7-day itinerary for visiting Ravello and its surroundings, along with some local food and wine specialties to try:

Here are some additional details about the suggested 7-day itinerary for visiting Ravello and its surroundings:

Day 1: Arrival in Ravello

- Ravello is a small town, so you can spend the day leisurely exploring its charming streets and historic sites. The Cathedral of Ravello, also known as the Duomo, is a must-visit. It features beautiful architecture and houses notable artworks.

- For lunch, trattorias (casual Italian eateries) in Ravello offer a variety of local dishes. Spaghetti alle vongole is a popular choice and consists of pasta with fresh clams cooked in garlic, olive oil, white wine, and parsley. Melanzane alla parmigiana is another local specialty that features layers of eggplant, tomato sauce, and cheese baked to perfection.

Day 2: Villa Cimbrone and Gardens

- Villa Cimbrone is an iconic attraction in Ravello. Its gardens are known for their lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and stunning views of the coastline. The Terrace of Infinity, in particular, offers a breathtaking panoramic view.

- You can bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the gardens. Local specialties like mozzarella di bufala, made from buffalo milk, and fresh tomatoes make for a refreshing and delicious meal.

Day 3: Amalfi Coast Tour

- The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage site and exploring its picturesque towns is a must-do. Amalfi is known for its stunning waterfront, where you can take a stroll and visit the beautiful Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi).

- Seafood is a highlight of the region, and you can savor a delightful seafood lunch at a restaurant overlooking the sea. Try dishes like grilled fish, spaghetti alle vongole, or frittura di paranza (mixed fried seafood).

- Positano is another famous town on the Amalfi Coast, renowned for its colorful cliffside houses. Take time to wander through its narrow streets, visit the beach, and enjoy a glass of limoncello, a lemon-flavored liqueur popular in the region.

Day 4: Pompeii and Vesuvius

- Pompeii offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman life. Exploring the ruins allows you to see the remarkably preserved buildings, mosaics, and frescoes. The amphitheater, the Forum, and the House of the Vettii are some of the notable sites to visit.

- Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that famously destroyed Pompeii, is worth a visit. You can hike up to the crater and enjoy panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and carry water during the hike.

- Neapolitan pizza is a must-try when in the region. Its characteristic thin and crispy crust, topped with fresh ingredients, makes for a delightful culinary experience. Naples, the birthplace of pizza, is not far from Pompeii and offers some of the best pizzerias.

Day 5: Capri Island

- Capri is a beautiful island known for its natural beauty and glamorous atmosphere. The town of Capri is full of designer boutiques, upscale restaurants, and stunning views.

- The Gardens of Augustus offer breathtaking views of the Faraglioni rock formations and the sea. Take a boat tour to see the famous Blue Grotto, a sea cave known for its vibrant blue waters. Note that access to the Blue Grotto depends on weather and sea conditions.

- Caprese cuisine is known for its simplicity and use of fresh ingredients. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant, trying dishes like ravioli capresi, filled with local cheese and served with tomato sauce, or insalata caprese, a salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.

Day 6: Wine Tasting in Irpinia

- The region of Irpinia, located inland from the Amalfi Coast, is renowned for its winemaking tradition. Visit a local winery and indulge in a wine-tasting experience. Aglianico is a notable red wine variety, known for its bold and complex flavors. Fiano is a white wine with a crisp and aromatic profile.

- Pair the wines with local delicacies such as salami, cheeses, and bruschetta. Irpinia is also known for its black truffles, so if you visit during truffle season, you may have the opportunity to try dishes featuring this prized ingredient.

Day 7: Cooking Class and Farewell Dinner

- Taking a cooking class allows you to learn about the local culinary traditions and prepare traditional dishes. You can learn how to make pasta from scratch, sauces, and other regional specialties.

- Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor a delicious homemade lunch. Some cooking classes also offer wine pairings, allowing you to further explore the local wines.

- For the farewell dinner, choose a restaurant that showcases the best of local cuisine. Scialatielli ai frutti di mare is a pasta dish made with fresh seafood, while pastiera napoletana is a traditional Neapolitan cake made with ricotta cheese, wheat berries, and citrus flavors.

Remember to check the availability of attractions, events, and seasonal specialties during your visit, as they may vary. Ravello and its surroundings offer a rich cultural and culinary experience, and this itinerary aims to provide a diverse and enjoyable exploration of the region. 

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How to get to Ravello, and view the map in real-time.

To get to Ravello, you can choose one of the following transportation options:

1. By Car: Ravello is located on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. If you're traveling by car, you can take the A3 highway from Naples and then follow the signs for the Amalfi Coast. The drive from Naples takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

2. By Public Transportation: If you prefer to use public transportation, you can take a train from Naples to Salerno. From Salerno, you can catch a SITA bus to Ravello. The bus ride takes about 1 hour and offers scenic views of the coastline. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Salerno to Amalfi and then a local bus or taxi up to Ravello.

As for viewing a map of Ravello in real-time, I'm sorry, but as a text-based AI model, I don't have the ability to display real-time maps or provide visual content. However, you can easily access online mapping services like Google Maps or Apple Maps on your device to view Ravello and its surroundings in real time. These platforms offer detailed maps, directions, and real-time traffic updates to help you navigate the area effectively. 

MAPS