Is Ravello Worth Visiting? My Honest Take After Multiple Trips

Thinking about visiting Ravello on your Amalfi Coast itinerary? Here’s why I think it’s the most beautiful town on the coast — and what to know before you go. First-hand tips from someone who’s actually stayed there.

I absolutely adore Ravello. It’s easily one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been—not just on the Amalfi Coast, but anywhere in Italy.

There’s something about the way it’s perched above everything, slightly removed from the chaos below, that gives it this rare mix of grandeur and stillness. I’ve watched sunsets here that I’ll remember for the rest of my life.

But that said, I still think it’s a fair question to ask: is Ravello worth visiting?

It’s not the easiest place to get to. It doesn’t have a beach. It’s a little more expensive, and a little less obvious, than some of the other Amalfi Coast towns.

So depending on your itinerary, your travel style, or the kind of trip you’re planning, Ravello might not be the automatic yes it seems to be on paper.

Here’s my honest take—based on personal experience—on who it’s right for, what makes it special, and how to know if it deserves a place on your Amalfi Coast itinerary.

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The Pros of Visiting Ravello

1. The Terrace of Infinity: One of the Most Moving Views I’ve Ever Seen

There are views that make you pause—and then there’s the Terrace of Infinity.

The first time I walked out onto this iconic viewpoint at Villa Cimbrone, I felt something I can only describe as deeply moving. You approach it through a shaded garden path, and suddenly there’s this archway, and the sun—if you arrive at the right time—starts to dip behind it. The light filters through in such a way that the air itself seems golden.

Then you step out onto the terrace, and your eyes are drawn along the line of these time-worn marble busts, weathered just enough to feel timeless. And beyond them? This immense, cinematic sweep of coastline, sea, and sky. It’s too big to fit in a photo. Too quiet to explain in words. It’s a view I’d bottle and sell if I could.

If you’re someone who likes to slow down, absorb your surroundings, and be genuinely moved by the place you’re standing in, Ravello delivers—immediately and fully.

2. The Views, Full Stop

That terrace is just one of many extraordinary views. Because Ravello sits so high above the coast, the perspective you get is almost god-like. You’re looking down—not just out—over the cliffs, the coastline, and little towns like Minori, which twinkle away below.

I love how the view shifts throughout the day:

• In the morning, the sun rises behind the mountains and throws a silvery light across the sea.
• Midday brings that crisp, white Mediterranean brightness.
• And then sunset… well, I’ve already said enough.

It’s not a one-and-done photo op. It’s the kind of place where the view keeps revealing itself, every time you glance in a different direction.

3. Two Unmissable Villas and Gardens

Both Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo are reason enough to visit Ravello.

Cimbrone is my favourite. Beyond the famous terrace, the gardens themselves are exquisite—a little romantic, a little overgrown, and full of surprises. You don’t feel like you’re in a manicured park; you feel like you’ve stepped into a dream someone else had a hundred years ago.

There are even incredible views back inland toward Scala and the mountains—something you don’t often see mentioned.

Villa Rufolo is no less lovely, though it’s a different vibe—more central, with that famous dome-and-pine-tree framing that’s been photographed a thousand times. The whole property overlooks the sea and the gardens are beautifully kept.

They even build a floating stage here during Ravello’s music festival. I haven’t been yet, but it’s high on my bucket list. Can you imagine listening to a string quartet as the sun sets over the water, perched on a stage suspended above the gardens?

4. It’s Slower, Quieter, and More Romantic

Because Ravello isn’t directly on the coast and takes a little more effort to reach, it feels more refined. That doesn’t mean it’s empty—it still gets plenty of day-trippers, especially from tour groups—but it tends to be calmer overall.

I’ve found that the magic of Ravello really starts to reveal itself in the late afternoon and early evening, once the buses have left and the groups have gone. That’s when you can walk the gardens in near-silence, or take a peaceful aperitivo in the main piazza with just a few others around.

And yes—it’s incredibly romantic. If you’re on a honeymoon, proposing, or just looking for a couple of slower, beautiful days, Ravello is probably the best spot on the coast to do it. I’ve stayed there overnight and loved the slower rhythm and sense of timelessness it offers.

5. Walking Trails and Staircase Paths

One of my favourite things about Ravello is how it’s connected to nearby towns like Minori and Atrani by a series of old stone paths and staircases. I’ve walked up and down from Minori more than once, and it’s always been such a peaceful, atmospheric experience.

There are cobblestones, tiled signs, lemon groves, and often very few people on the trail. You’ll pass quiet courtyards, shaded steps, and little glimpses of the sea that feel like secrets. It’s a chance to walk through the landscape rather than just look at it.

7. A Gorgeous Piazza for Aperitivo

I always recommend stopping for a drink—coffee, spritz, whatever your pace—in the central piazza. It’s a great little people-watching spot, and there’s something satisfying about sitting still in a town like Ravello. It doesn’t demand much from you. Just take it in.

If you’re after restaurant recommendations, I’ve included some favourites over in my Things to Do in Ravello post.

The Cons of Visiting Ravello (and What to Know)

1. It’s Not on the Ferry Line

This is the biggie. Ravello isn’t a coastal town, so you can’t just hop on a ferry and step off in the main square. Getting there means one of three things:

• Walking up from a lower town like Minori (it’s a serious uphill hike)
• Taking a bus (which can be busy, especially in high season)
• Or paying for a taxi or transfer, which isn’t cheap

For example, I once paid €60 for a 10-minute taxi ride from Minori just to avoid arriving sweaty to dinner at Rossellinis (at Palazzo Avino, for the curious). Absolute daylight robbery—but also, kind of worth it in the moment.

2. It’s More Suited to Slow or Luxe Travel

Ravello is not a budget destination, and I wouldn’t say it’s ideal for families with young kids. There’s no beach, no real “kid-friendly” energy, and the hotels skew premium.

That said, if you book well in advance, you can find value—especially at more boutique properties. I’ve stayed at Villa San Cosma, just below Ravello, and really enjoyed it (though it often books out fast).

3. It’s Not for the Party Crowd

There’s no nightlife scene to speak of, so if you’re after beach bars or late-night energy, this isn’t it. But then again, neither is most of the Amalfi Coast, really. If you’re looking to dance until 2am, you’re probably planning the wrong kind of holiday altogether.

So… Is Ravello Worth It for You?

Yes, absolutely—if you’re the right kind of traveller.

You’ll love Ravello if:

• You appreciate gardens, views, and atmosphere
• You’re on a honeymoon, romantic trip, or creative escape
• You like to travel slowly, take your time, and experience places with all your senses
• You don’t mind putting in a little effort to reach a quieter place

You might want to skip it if:

• You’re on a very tight budget
• You want to be right on the beach
• You’re travelling with restless kids who need constant stimulation
• You’re only in the area for one rushed day and trying to see five towns

But if you can spare a night—or even just a well-timed half-day—I’d urge you to make time for Ravello. It’s peaceful. It’s elevated (in every sense of the word). And it offers a kind of beauty that lingers in the back of your mind long after you’ve left.

Continue Planning Your Amalfi Coast Trip

If you’re mapping out your itinerary or wondering how to fit Ravello into a bigger Amalfi Coast adventure, I’ve got more guides to help:

• Things to Do in Ravello – my full list of villas, restaurants, viewpoints, and hidden corners
• 4-Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary – ideal if you’re short on time but want depth
• 10-Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary – the expanded version for a slow, luxurious coastal escape
• Amalfi Coast Travel Guides – browse all posts in the series
• Campania Travel Guides – for all posts written about
• Naples Travel Guides – gritty, flavourful, and a perfect pairing with Ravello
• Capri, Ischia and Procida – if you’re looking to add a dreamy island to your itinerary

Ravello may not be the most obvious stop on your trip—but if you’re anything like me, it’ll be the one that stays with you the longest.