Giada's Guide to Ravello
Unlike most towns on the Amalfi Coast, Ravello sits back from the water’s edge, atop a hill more than 1,000 feet above sea level. Thanks to this lofty position, the town offers exceptional views of the coast. Because of its unique vantage point and relative seclusion, Ravello has long attracted celebrities and artists seeking an escape from the everyday world, including Greta Garbo, Arturo Toscanini, and Leonard Bernstein.
Anchored by an 11th-century cathedral, the Piazza Duomo is the heart of this small town. The stunning medieval structure stands in contrast to the nearby modernist Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium, designed by the star Brazilian architect, where concerts and art exhibits are held year-round.
Eat
Mimí Pizzeria & Cucina
For a picture-perfect lunch with incredible pizza, you can’t miss this family-owned restaurant just a short stroll from Villa Rufolo. Sit outside in the trellis-covered garden or in the arched dining room lined with typical ceramics from the region.
Trattoria Cumpa’ Cosimo
This small trattoria is known for its traditional pasta dishes and authentic home cooking. Owner Netta—known as “La Nonna”—presides over the restaurant and exudes local hospitality, engaging with all her guests.
Rossellini’s
This Michelin-starred restaurant at the Palazzo Avino offers light, balanced flavors inspired by the region and created by chef Gianni Vanacore. The terrace provides stunning views of the Amalfi Coast to accompany an exceptional tasting menu.
Babel Wine Bar
Babel is a local favorite, with a traditional menu featuring the best local and fresh ingredients, including fresh pastas and their renowned Roman-style pizza. It’s run by a gregarious proprietor with humorous stories on hand, making all guests feel at home.
Il Flauto di Pan
The restaurant of the Villa Cimbrone hotel is not only wrapped in the romantic gardens of the property and views of the Gulf of Salerno, it also boasts a Michelin star. Chef Lorenzo Montoro reinterprets traditional Campanian flavors with fresh produce.
Ristorante Il Cantastorie
Located on the road between Ravello and Vietri sul Mare, Il Cantastorie is a cozy, no-frills restaurant with fresh seafood dishes, homemade pastas, and a cheerful staff.
Do
Wine & Drugs Ravello
Don’t worry! The “drugs” in this shop’s name refer to nothing more illicit than olive oil, which, we’ll admit, is so good here it’s practically mood-altering. The friendly and knowledgeable owners love nothing more than sharing samples of delicious local wines and olive oils.
Take a cooking class with Mamma Agata
Mamma Agata is a local legend who served as the private chef for countless celebrities who visited Ravello, including Jackie O, Federico Fellini, and Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. In the kitchen of her private home, you can learn her secret recipes, tour her garden, and enjoy a fabulous lunch on the terrace.
Ceramiche d'Arte Pascal
A trip to the Amalfi Coast isn’t complete without a souvenir stop for hand-painted ceramics, and this lovely showroom has a massive selection to choose from. Opt for a classic lemon motif, expressive fish, gorgeous peacock feathers, or simple geometrics to add an Italian flair to your table back home.
Villa Rufolo
This grand villa dating back to the 13th century is centrally located for some of the most incredible ocean views in all of the Amalfi Coast. The beautifully landscaped gardens are open to visitors year-round and host the Ravello Festival, a music and arts festival that happens every summer. You’ll spot many tourists snapping photos with the “Ravello Tree” an umbrella pine overlooking a sweeping expanse of coastline that is emblematic of the region’s beauty.
Villa Cimbrone
This five-star hotel set in a 12th-century villa is gorgeous through and through, but you don’t need to pay the nightly rate to see its most spectacular feature. Walk through the lush gardens, which are open to the public, to reach the marble-lined Infinity Terrace that sits above nothing but miles of ocean views.
Stay
Palazzo Avino
Built in the former private villa of a local noble family, this grand property offers a taste of quiet luxury. Lounge in the rooftop solarium by the infinity pool, or enjoy a light lunch on the terrace with incredible views of the ocean. The hotel offers a free shuttle to its private beach, just a 15-minute ride down the hill.
Belmond Caruso
With centuries-old gardens, frescoes, and a stunning infinity pool, this hotel is a restful oasis in the center of Ravello. Outstanding service is ready to help you with anything you desire, from private boat excursions to a hike along the Path of the Gods complete with picnic lunch.
Hotel Parsifal
For the Ravello experience without the hefty price tag, this family-run hotel built in a 13th-century convent is just the ticket. Located just a few minutes from the town center, it offers great views, ancient charm, and comfort. Many rooms have balconies, and the restaurant terrace has wonderful views down the hill to the sea.
Get a taste of the region
Sorrento's Lemon Olive Oil IGP
- Discount Price Member
- $16.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $17.00
- Unit Price
- per
Gold-Wrapped Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Discount Price Member
- $30.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $33.00
- Unit Price
- per
Soft Lemon Amaretti Cookies
- Discount Price Member
- $23.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $24.50
- Unit Price
- per
Organic Sicilian Oregano Bunch
- Discount Price Member
- $7.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $7.50
- Unit Price
- per
Oregano Spicy Sea Salt Seasoning
- Discount Price Member
- $11.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $12.00
- Unit Price
- per
Organic Mezzi Rigatoni Pasta
- Discount Price Member
- $10.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $11.00
- Unit Price
- per
Organic Bay Leaves
- Discount Price Member
- $7.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $7.50
- Unit Price
- per
Organic Ziti Rigati Pasta
- Discount Price Member
- $10.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $11.00
- Unit Price
- per
Sea Salt Seasoning with Capers
- Discount Price Member
- $11.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $12.00
- Unit Price
- per
