In the hills above Amalfi is the elegant town of Ravello, known for its picturesque gardens and sweeping views of the coastal area. Ravello has a sleepy seaside ambiance perfect for unwinding and enjoying the Mediterranean atmosphere.
Orientate yourself with a stroll through the quiet cobblestone streets and have a coffee in the Piazza Duomo and people watch. In the piazza is the impeccably conserved Cathedral of San Pantaleone. Founded in 1086, the cathedral is dedicated to San Pantaleone, the patron saint of Ravello. As you approach the church, look closely at the large bronze door built in 1179 and view the 54 panels imprinted with images of Christ and the saints. Inside the cathedral, admire the renaissance paintings on the walls and the marble pulpit. Notice the small vessel in which it is believed a drop of San Pantaleone’s blood is preserved. Visit the Museo del Duomo, located in the crypt, and see a collection of religious artefacts and sculptures.
A stroll through the gardens, and along the terraces and under the pergolas at Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, is a must in Ravello. These beautiful gardens have thousands of colourful Mediterranean flowers and sweeping vistas that look out to the Bay of Salerno.
With the Scala Mountains on either side of the town, Ravello offers a number of hiking opportunities. Walk down the stone stairway to the village of Minori. This is an easy and popular walk that takes about an hour at a moderate pace. Be sure to take your camera to photograph the views of the Amalfi Coast and the Bay of Salerno.
If you are in town between June and October, Ravello hosts a world-renowned arts festival featuring national and international musicians, dancers and visual artists.
Ravello is located 7 kilometres (4 miles) from Amalfi and 30 kilometres (18 miles) from Salerno. While the town can be accessed from the coastal road by car, you will need to park in the parking lot by the cathedral and walk into the village. There is also a SITA bus service, which runs regularly between Amalfi and Ravello.
