Flower-filled gardens of exotic plants and an international arts festival make this hilltop village one of the most popular destinations on the Amalfi Coast.
Perched high up in the hills above Amalfi is Ravello, an attractive village of elegant gardens with views across the landscape and sea.
Get your bearings and ramble through Ravello’s quiet cobblestone streets. Linger over a drink in one of the cafes surrounding Piazza Duomo, the main square.
The square’s visual focal point is the cathedral of San Pantaleone. It was founded in 1086 and dedicated to the patron saint of Ravello. Before venturing inside the church, pause by the large bronze door that was created in 1179. There are 54 embossed panels with depictions of Christ and a handful of saints. The cathedral’s interior features a marble pulpit, renaissance paintings and a small vessel that’s believed to contain the saint’s blood. Go down into the crypt to see the Museo del Duomo that displays religious artefacts and sculptures. The museum attracts a small admission charge.
Ravello’s main attractions are the gardens at Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo. Both feature exotic and Mediterranean flowers and stunning views of the Bay of Salerno. Amble along their terraces and under pergolas and delight in the thousands of flowers.
Ravello is flanked by the Scala Mountains that provide plenty of hiking opportunities. One of the most popular and easiest walks is down the ancient stairway to the village of Minori. The downhill walk takes about an hour at a moderate pace and offers views of the Amalfi Coast and the Bay of Salerno. For details of Ravello hiking itineraries, get in touch with the town’s tourist office via its website.
From June to October Ravello hosts an arts festival featuring music, dance, and visual arts. Catch performances in venues all across town.
Ravello is situated four miles (seven kilometres) from Amalfi and 18 miles (30 kilometres) from Salerno. The village can be accessed by car from the coast road. Most of Ravello’s steep, narrow lanes are suitable for pedestrians only. If you are driving you must leave your car in the parking lot near the cathedral and walk. Alternatively, there is a frequent SITA bus service from Amalfi to Ravello.
