Ravello: Villa Cimbrone terrace and the Tyrrhenian Sea

Amalfi Coast · Music & Gardens

Ravello

350 metres above the sea, Ravello offers villas with gardens and views that inspire for centuries.

Ravello is the only town on the Amalfi Coast that has no direct access to the sea - and that is exactly its appeal. The views from the Belvedere dell'Infinito of Villa Cimbrone rank among the most celebrated in the world, described by Gore Vidal as "the most beautiful on earth."

Did You Know?

350 m

altitude above sea level

1953

year the Ravello Festival was founded

1880

year Wagner visited Villa Rufolo

Richard Wagner was so moved by the gardens of Villa Rufolo that he declared he had found the inspiration for the garden of Klingsor in Parsifal. A concert is held here every year in his memory.

What to See in Ravello

Villa Rufolo

The 13th-century villa with its terraced gardens and the famous belvedere from which the sea can be seen far below. The stage of Villa Rufolo is the venue for the Ravello Festival concerts. Open daily; entrance ~€7.

Villa Cimbrone

The most romantic villa on the coast, with the Terrace of Infinity (Belvedere dell'Infinito) lined with marble busts looking out over an infinite expanse of blue sea. Open year-round from 9 am to sunset; entrance ~€7.

Ravello Cathedral

The 11th-century cathedral in Piazza Vescovado with a remarkable 12th-century bronze door. Inside, two mosaic ambo pulpits (12th–13th century) are among the finest examples of medieval stone inlay work in southern Italy.

SITA Bus from Amalfi

The easiest and most scenic way to reach Ravello. Buses leave from the harbour square in Amalfi approximately every 40 minutes. Journey time: ~25 minutes. Ticket: ~€1.30.

How to Get to Ravello

Transport Route Notes
SITA BusFrom Amalfi harbour~25 min, ~€1.30, every ~40 min
By CarSP13 from AmalfiNarrow, winding road; paid car parks at entrance
TaxiFrom Amalfi or Maiori~€20–25, negotiate in advance

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to Ravello from Amalfi?
From Amalfi take the SITA bus to Ravello (about 25 min, ~€1.30). Buses depart from the harbour square in Amalfi. By car the road is narrow and winding - the bus is a better choice. There is no direct ferry access.
When does the Ravello Festival take place?
The Ravello Festival takes place every year from June to September, with concerts in the spectacular setting of Villa Rufolo. It is one of Italy's most prestigious music festivals. Tickets must be purchased in advance at ravellofestival.com.
How much does entry to Villa Cimbrone cost?
Entry to the gardens of Villa Cimbrone costs about €7 per adult. The gardens are open year-round from 9:00 am until sunset. The Belvedere dell'Infinito (Terrace of Infinity) is the most photographed viewpoint on the coast.
Is Ravello worth visiting without attending the Festival?
Absolutely. Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone with their gardens and views are worth the trip independently of the Festival. The medieval centre, the Piazza Vescovado and the Cathedral are also well worth exploring.