GemmaRavello, perched high above the Amalfi Coast, is a place that seems almost too beautiful to be real. From its terraced gardens overlooking the glittering sea to its cobbled streets filled with history, this charming town is a destination you can’t miss. If you’re planning a day trip to Ravello, get ready for a journey filled with stunning views, historic sites, and experiences that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. From my own personal experience, a day in Ravello can easily become one of the highlights of your Italian adventure.
Here’s your guide to the 10 things you truly need to see and do in Ravello, with practical tips, hidden gems, and a few personal insights to make your visit unforgettable.
1. Wander Through Villa Rufolo
Villa Rufolo is arguably Ravello’s crown jewel. Built in the 13th century, this villa offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and breathtaking gardens. Its terraces are famously featured in Wagner’s operas, and once you see them, you’ll understand why.
As you walk through the gardens, you’ll encounter vibrant flowers, carefully manicured hedges, and panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast. The villa itself has rooms and courtyards that showcase medieval architecture, intricate mosaics, and old frescoes.
From my own personal experience, visiting Villa Rufolo in the early morning is magical—the light hits the gardens perfectly, and the crowds haven’t arrived yet. If you love photography, this is your chance to capture the villa without a single tourist in your frame.
Tip: Don’t rush through. Take time to enjoy the view from each terrace, and make sure your camera is ready—the vistas are incredible.
2. Explore Villa Cimbrone Gardens
If you thought Villa Rufolo was beautiful, wait until you step into Villa Cimbrone. Its gardens are a masterpiece of landscape design, blending lush greenery with statues, fountains, and hidden corners that invite exploration.
The highlight is the Terrace of Infinity, where the view of the coast feels endless. Standing there, you almost feel like you’re on the edge of the world. It’s not just the view; the terrace has statues and decorative balustrades that make it an iconic spot for photos.
Villa Cimbrone also has a rich history. The villa dates back to the 11th century, and its gardens have evolved over time, incorporating influences from different eras and cultures. You’ll find Gothic, Renaissance, and even Moorish touches throughout the property.
Fun note: There’s a small cafe inside Villa Cimbrone. Enjoy a quick espresso and soak in the view—it’s one of those moments that makes traveling so worthwhile.
3. Attend a Concert at the Ravello Festival
Ravello isn’t just about sights; it’s about experiences. The town hosts the Ravello Festival, an annual music and arts event that attracts world-class performers. From classical concerts to jazz and contemporary music, this festival is a celebration of culture with the Amalfi Coast as its backdrop.
Even if your visit doesn’t coincide with the festival dates, some of the villa gardens host smaller concerts year-round. Listening to live music while overlooking the coast is unforgettable.
From my overall experience, a concert in Ravello feels more intimate than in a large city venue—the combination of music, scenery, and history creates a magical atmosphere you won’t forget.
4. Stroll Through Ravello’s Historic Center
Ravello’s heart is its historic center, a compact area full of charm. The cobbled streets, lined with artisan shops and cafes, invite you to wander without a strict plan. Along the way, you’ll find local bakeries, ceramic shops, and small boutiques selling handmade crafts.
Stop at Piazza Vescovado, the main square, to take in the town’s atmosphere. Here, you’ll see the Ravello Cathedral (Duomo di Ravello), which dates back to the 11th century. Its striking bronze doors and medieval architecture are impressive, and the interior contains beautiful mosaics and religious art.
Walking through the historic center, you’ll get a sense of the town’s slow pace and its ability to preserve history while embracing tourists. Don’t rush—take a moment to enjoy a coffee in a square and watch the world go by.
5. Visit the Ravello Cathedral (Duomo di Ravello)
The Duomo di Ravello is a small but historically rich cathedral. Built in 1086, it combines Romanesque architecture with later decorative elements. Its bronze doors depict biblical scenes and are a highlight for visitors. Inside, you’ll find a mix of medieval and Renaissance art, including illuminated manuscripts and sculptures.
One of the cathedral’s treasures is the Crypt of San Pantaleone, which houses relics of the town’s patron saint. From my own personal experience, stepping inside the cathedral provides a quiet, reflective moment away from the bustling streets and gardens. It’s also a great place to learn more about Ravello’s cultural and religious history.
6. Enjoy the Amalfi Coast Viewpoints
Ravello is famous for its dramatic views, and there’s no shortage of spots to take them in. Beyond Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, simply wandering the town will lead you to hidden terraces and quiet corners overlooking the coast.
The town sits on a ridge, so almost every turn offers a unique perspective of the Amalfi coastline, colorful cliffside villages, and the deep blue Tyrrhenian Sea. Bring a good pair of walking shoes—many viewpoints require navigating cobbled paths and staircases.
Tip: Midday can be bright and harsh for photos, so consider visiting viewpoints in the morning or late afternoon for softer light.
7. Savor Local Cuisine at a Traditional Restaurant
No day trip to Ravello is complete without tasting the local food. The town offers many restaurants and trattorias serving traditional Amalfi dishes. Fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and citrus-infused desserts are must-tries.
From my overall experience, a simple lemon risotto or freshly caught fish with local herbs can be a highlight of the day. Ravello is also famous for limoncello, a sweet lemon liqueur, often served as a digestivo after a meal.
If you want something lighter while exploring, grab a pastry from a local bakery—Ravello is known for its delicious sweets, particularly delizia al limone, a lemon dessert unique to the region.
8. Discover Hidden Art and Museums
Ravello is home to small museums and art collections that reveal the town’s artistic heritage. While the main attractions are the villas and gardens, Museo del Corallo and other local exhibitions showcase coral craftsmanship, ceramics, and paintings by regional artists.
Art lovers can also find temporary exhibitions in some of the villa spaces. These displays often combine classical and contemporary pieces, giving insight into Ravello’s ongoing cultural significance.
From my own personal experience, taking a brief detour into these smaller museums provides a quieter, more intimate experience compared to the more crowded main sites.
9. Take a Leisurely Walk Along Ravello’s Paths
Ravello isn’t just about structured sightseeing—it’s about wandering. The town has several scenic walking paths, connecting villas, gardens, and viewpoints. Some paths are short and easy, while others involve more challenging climbs, rewarding you with stunning perspectives of the coastline.
Walking these paths allows you to discover small chapels, secluded gardens, and local life away from the main tourist spots. It’s the kind of experience that makes you feel like you’re truly exploring rather than just visiting.
Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes and carry water. Even a short walk in the sun can be tiring, but the views make it more than worth it.
10. Capture Your Day with Photos and Memories
Finally, take the time to capture your experience, but don’t forget to enjoy the moment without a lens between you and the view. Ravello is exceptionally photogenic, from its winding streets to its terraced gardens.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or just snapping quick shots on your phone, the light, colors, and scenery make every picture Instagram-worthy. But from my overall experience, some of the best memories aren’t in photos—they’re the moments you take in while sitting on a terrace, feeling the breeze, and watching the sun set over the Amalfi Coast.
Practical Tips for Your Ravello Day Trip
- Timing: Arrive early to enjoy Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone before crowds.
- Transportation: Ravello is accessible by car or bus from Amalfi or Salerno. Parking is limited, so plan accordingly.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes—the streets are cobbled and there are many stairs.
- Food & Drink: Try a local trattoria for lunch and keep a small snack handy for between sights.
- Photography: Bring a camera, but also take time to just look and enjoy.
Ravello is a destination that rewards curiosity. From historic villas to quiet alleys, each corner offers a glimpse of the town’s charm and beauty. A day trip here can easily feel like stepping into another world, filled with history, art, culture, and stunning natural scenery.
By the end of your visit, you’ll understand why so many travelers return to Ravello again and again. Whether it’s the breathtaking gardens, the rich history, or the simple pleasure of strolling through sunlit streets, there’s something in Ravello that speaks to every traveler.
So pack your walking shoes, bring your curiosity, and get ready for a day in Ravello that you’ll truly love.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.