11 Lovely Things to Do in Ravello, Italy (In 1 Day!)

Ravello, Italy’s ancient cobblestone streets and luxurious villas draw travelers in for romantic getaways, musical events, and day trips along the Amalfi Coast. This quaint mountain-top town has been a retreat for artists and intellectuals since the 6th century! Whether you’re traveling from Naples, Salerno, or Sorrento, or from other towns along the Amalfi Coast, a sojourn in historic Ravello is essential. 

If you only have one day in Ravello – and if you’re wondering what the best things to do in Ravello are – then here’s my advice: Do what Italians do best. Delight in life’s simple pleasures. Amuse yourself with slow-paced Italian living, stroll through the famous villas and manicured gardens, do a little shopping, and savor traditional Amalfi Coast cuisine.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Ravello in one day, plus some other must-know tips. Prepare to swoon!

11 Best Things to Do in Ravello, Italy (Doable in 1 Day!)

Ready for one amazing day in romantic Ravello?

Here are the 11 very best things to do in Ravello, Italy!  

1. Relish the Romance of Ravello

The poetic charm of Ravello’s terraced gardens, old-world architecture, lush landscapes, and rich history has swept writers, painters, and lovers off their feet for over a thousand years.

To start your day, pause and breathe in the fresh ocean air. Allow your two feet to guide where they feel called. Trust that magic will follow.

Let yourself idly meander about. Explore. Discover, slowly. Listen to birdsong, stop to appreciate fragrant flora, and savor the magnificent views. Live la dolce vita.

2. Treasure Moments at Villa Rufolo

The Rufolo Dynasty built Villa Rufolo in the 13th century, and it remains one of the grandest attractions for a trip to Ravello.

In addition to lush gardens, perfectly trimmed hedges, blushing purple plumeria, towering Italian stone pine, and elegant fountains, Villa Rufolo is home to one of the most prestigious music festivals in the entire world: Ravello Music Festival. A symphony in the stunning gardens of Villa Rufolo is music to my ears!

Enter through the dramatic Romanesque, Gothic, and Moorish-inspired cloister and you’ll understand why Villa Rufolo is the venue for such a worldly event. And of course, why you must visit the Villa Rufolo gardens during your one day in Ravello!

Brush up on Ravello’s history at the informative museum on the grounds, and don’t forget to climb the staircase for incredible views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and Gulf of Salerno!

P.S. Legend has it there’s buried treasure in the Villa Rufolo, so keep an eye out! 

3. See the Chiesa Dell’Annunziata

You may recognize the twin domes of this church. A towering Italian stone pine rises above the domes like an umbrella; a widely published photograph taken from the Villa Rufolo gardens.

The Chiesa Dell’Annunziata no longer holds service, but is appreciated for its perspective of the Minori and Maiori coastlines. Make a quick stop at this church and quench your thirst for picture-perfect photos!

4. Spend Time at Villa Cimbrone

A staple for any Ravello itinerary is Villa Cimbrone – another opulent Italian villa tucked away in the hillside of Ravello.

Villa Cimbrone is a ten-minute walk down from the main Piazza. Follow the signs, and bear in mind there are some stairs.

Ponder, delight, and lose yourself in the greenery, stellar architectural design, viewpoints, sculptures, and enchanting gardens. Ravello’s most coveted view is right in front of you.

As mentioned above, you won’t want to leave Villa Cimbrone, so don’t! Click here to book your stay so you can wine, dine, relax, and sleep like royalty, if only for a night.

5. Stand in Awe of the Terrazza dell’Infinito

The 18th-century Terrace of Infinity at Villa Cimbrone awaits you. Make your way under the “Doorway to the Sun”, toward the statue of fertility goddess Ceres.

Before you sit the seven marble busts that make this panoramic terrace so sublime. Their proper manner seems to greet you as a fellow Greek god(ess), making your grand entrance. 

Views of the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea below you, and the Gulf of Salerno out east, are enriching to the soul. Now you understand why the Infinity Terrace is the most iconic terrace in all of the Amalfi Coast. 

6. Meander the Centro Storico

While you’re here, of course, you have to explore the historic center. Along the way, make sure to check out the sites listed below!

• Piazza Duomo: Ravello’s main square is called Piazza Duomo (sometimes Piazza Vescovado). This is the epicenter of quintessential Italian living in Ravello: old Italian men perched on benches, children running around with gelato, and churchgoers funneling into the Ravello Cathedral. Have an espresso and a pastry at one of the cafés and people-watch, taking it all in.
• Duomo di Ravello: Since the 10th-century the Ravello Cathedral, or the Duomo di Ravello, has stood humbly in the town’s main square. Simplicity is the theme here. The cathedral is quite understated compared to other cathedrals along the Amalfi Coast (like the Duomo di Amalfi), but there are some splendid mosaics and a refreshing mint-green ceiling.
• Caseificio Staiano di Staiano Biagio: Ravello – and the Campania region as a whole – makes exquisite cheese. This cheese factory has been perfecting the art of cheesemaking for generations. Come in for a sandwich – or a mozzarella-making class! My favorite? Order a mozzarella and prosciutto plate “per andare” for a picnic!

RELATED READING:

• 10 Unforgettable Things to Do in the Amalfi Coast
• The Dreamiest Amalfi Coast Itinerary (For 3, 4, or 5 Days)
• 10 Magical Amalfi Coast Towns to Stay In (For Every Travel Style!)
• 10 Magnificent Things to Do in Vietri sul Mare, Italy
• Visiting the Amalfi Coast in October: Pros, Cons & Must-Know Tips

7. Shop for Typical Souvenirs

Shopping is certainly one of the best things to do in Ravello! From ceramic galleries to resortwear boutiques, you’ll want to get yourself and your loved ones something special.

Having a pair of leather sandals custom fit at La Bottega Eva Caruso may not be necessary, but it is fabulous. Why not sip on an Aperol spritz in the piazza while you wait for the shoemaker to do their work? 

Next up, seek out handmade Italian swimsuits, shorts, dresses, and sarongs in classic Mediterranean colors and lemon prints. I’m obsessed with my swimsuits from Blu Mediterraneo Ravello!

The Amalfi Coast is famous for producing beautiful ceramics – especially in Vietri sul Mare. However, Ravello is home to some incredibly talented ceramists too! I suggest Ceramiche D’Arte Carmela and Ceramiche Cosmolena for high-quality, custom pieces – and yes, international shipping is available!

8. Hike Down the Stairs to the Coast

If you’re up for an adventure (and a strong workout), I highly recommend hiking the stairs of Ravello. You can hike up, down, or both!

These ancient stairs have connected the town of Ravello to other Amalfi Coast villages since the Middle Ages.

The stair trail is lined with olive trees, lemon groves, and locals’ private homes and gardens – gifting you a treasured glimpse into authentic Italian life on the Amalfi Coast. Be sure to pet all the cats along the way, and take plenty of photos! In the springtime, the constant fragrance of wisteria and lemons is divine.

P.S. You’ll find some public fountains along the trail to hydrate.

9. Clear your Mind at Giardini Principessa di Piemonte

Villa Rufolo’s gardens, and the Villa Cimbrone gardens, can become overwhelmed with visitors during the summer months. The community gardens of Giardini Principessa di Piemonte have a more tranquil feel and offer fabulous views as well.

Rest on a bench with some gelato (from Baffone Gelateria Artigianale), and let the serenity of the Amalfi Coast overcome you.

10. Dine Like Royalty

It’s true, one of the best things to do in Ravello – and all of Italy – is to EAT!

What to order? Seafood, and anything with Amalfi Coast lemons, of course! Go for Spaghetti ai frutti di mare (seafood pasta), pasta al limone (lemon pasta – an Amalfi Coast classic!), catch of the day, local olives, delizia al limone (Italian sponge cake with lemon cream)… Need I say more?

Oh wait, wine! Try the local Ravello Bianco Costa d’Amalfi, Ravello Rosso, and Ravello Riserva.

Best Ravello Restaurants

• Babel Wine Bar Bistrò & Art: Best to make a reservation here, people adore the wine list, fresh food, and relaxing atmosphere.
• Ristorante Vittoria: Pizza lovers, rejoice! It’s not too hard to find good pizza in Italy, but this is definitely the best in town.
• Il Flauto di Pan: Wine and dine in the gardens of Villa Cimbrone with romantic views of the Ravello valley. This Michelin-star restaurant prides itself on seamless service and artfully prepared dishes.
• Rossellinis: Michelin-star food and service to accompany a candle-lit dinner with an unparalleled view of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Try the saffron and shrimp risotto!

11. Watch a Sunset and Sunrise

If you can swing it, splurge on a room with an outdoor terrace overlooking the Mediterranean. Perched atop Amalfi’s mountain slopes, you’ll find one of the coast’s most unique, all-encompassing vistas.

Thus, two of the best things to see in Ravello are a sunset and sunrise over the Mediterranean Sea. Gift yourself one of each by spending the night!

Think of it as an investment in your passion! History has proven that inspiration soars here.

As mentioned, our top recommendations for accommodation include Caruso, A Belmond Hotel (ultra-luxury), Villa Cimbrone (luxury), Gala Residence Villa Giovanna (mid-range), and A Casa di Pissi (budget).

Where to Stay in Ravello

Ravello is a great option for a day trip, but if you’re thinking of spending the night in Ravello, then the views and splendidly peaceful atmosphere are reason enough! Make sure to book a suite boasting dreamy mountain and sea views.

Here are the best options, no matter your budget!

• Caruso, A Belmond Hotel (Ultra-luxury): Extravagance. Lavish living spaces, exceptional views, infinity edge pool… Caruso is the gold standard. Click here to book it.
• Villa Cimbrone (Luxury): After touring the Villa Cimbrone, you’ll probably never want to leave. And you don’t have to! (Well, sort of.) With a captivating landscape and Michelin-starred restaurant, why leave? Click here to book it.
• Gala Residence Villa Giovanna (Mid-range): Rest easy in this upscale guesthouse, and start your day in Ravello with breakfast on the terrace overlooking the sea. Click here to book it.
• A Casa di Pissi (Budget): Simple, but has everything you need for a stay in Ravello. Including a central location. Click here to book it.

Still looking? Here’s my favorite website for finding the best deals on Amalfi Coast accommodations – from luxury resorts and hotels, to apartments and charming B&Bs. Free cancellation is usually included, so you can book in advance with confidence. Remember: the best places in Amalfi sell out well in advance in the high season!

How to Get to Ravello, Italy

Ravello is not literally on the Amalfi Coast – it’s perched on the slopes of the Lattari Mountains, 365 meters above the sea. So you can imagine just how incredible the panoramic ocean vistas and sunsets are here!

With a little planning, arriving in Ravello is enough!

Ferry

If you’re coming from Naples, Salerno, or Sorrento, the ferry is your ideal mode of transportation to Ravello – and the Amalfi Coast in general.

Since there’s no direct ferry to Ravello, buy a ferry ticket to either the port of Minori or Amalfi. Once you arrive at the port, simply hop on a bus, grab a taxi, or hike up to Ravello!

During the off-season (usually November to early April), many ferries routes aren’t serviced. If you’re traveling during peak season, consider pre-booking your ferry for a stress-free trip!

Click here to search timetables and book your ferry tickets in advance!

On Foot

If you’re already on the Amalfi Coast, you can reach Ravello on your own two feet. This is my favorite option!

We’ve hiked up to Ravello twice. Once while staying in Amalfi, and once while staying in Vietri sul Mare.

Staying in Amalfi town? You can set off from there. The journey from Amalfi through Atrani and up to Ravello takes about an hour.

Otherwise, take the bus to Atrani. Your starting point is by the main church, Collegiate Santa Maria Maddalena. Simply follow the rugged stairs up the mountain until you reach Ravello. There are plenty of signs (as seen above) to direct you along the way! From Atrani, expect a 45-minute hike.

Bus

There is ample public transportation along the Amalfi Coast, and to/from Naples, Salerno, and Sorrento. You can take the SITA bus from any of those destinations to Minori or Amalfi. Once you arrive in Minori or Amalfi, change for the SITA bus to Ravello.

Private Car/Taxi

Hiring a private transfer or hailing a taxi is simple, fast, and offers you the chance to stop for photos along the way to Ravello. Just note, taxis on the Amalfi Coast are ridiculously expensive!

On the bright side, you won’t have to worry about waiting in long bus lines in the sun… only to discover that the bus is completely full when it arrives at your stop – this happens often in the spring/summer!

This website offers some great private transportation options.

Guided Day Trip

If taking a guided day trip to Ravello is more your speed (and if you’re staying in Sorrento), then here are some of the best tours to choose from!

• Private Tour of the Amalfi Coast: Positano, Amalfi and Ravello
• Tour to the Amalfi Coast Positano, Amalfi & Ravello from Sorrento 
• Small-Group Tour of the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento

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