Written by Missy Johnston
Ravello View from Villa Rufolo Gardens, Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast of Italy is the type of place where visitors often want to turn a single day’s visit into a month-long getaway. It’s just that beautiful and charming. It’s no wonder artists, writers, and musicians have flocked to the city of Ravello over the centuries to find inspiration for their creative works.
Ravello is one of the fascinating stops on an Italian Amalfi Coast private yacht charter. Here are some of the sights and activities that this historic home of Italian nobility offers.
Noble Villas
Villa Rufolo
In the 11th and 12th centuries, Italian noble families inhabited Ravello and exercised their power at the royal court. One of Ravello’s attractions is the Villa Rufolo, once home to the Rufolo family. The Rufolos were able to retain their power and businesses long after other families moved out of Ravello in favor of Naples and Puglia in the 1400s. The villa’s original architecture and design has been remodeled over the years, but the site is now home to the wonderful “Garden of the Soul” and still retains its stunning medieval beauty.
Villa Cimbrione Gardens
Similarly, the Villa Cimbrone is another Italian noble family home. The Accongiogioco family passed the villa to the Fusco family sometime after the 11th century, and today it functions as a hotel. Visitors must pay for a guest room to visit the inside of the villa, but the Terrace of Infinity and scenic gardens are open to the public for a small fee.
Places to Explore
Amalfi Coast from gardens of Ravello, Italy
Ravello can be best seen by walking. One place that holds much appeal is the lemon-scented and lovely “Path of Lemons.” The downtown area is a favorite of visitors who are interested in medieval history.
Other options to explore include monasteries, rock tunnels, and villas in the city proper. The city’s ancient ceramics—the practice dates back to the Neolithic era—are famous and are a great option for unique and authentic souvenirs.
Piazza del Duomo, Ravello, Italy
Piazza Duomo, the main square in Ravello, is beautiful, filled to the brim with historic architecture, and also offers great options for lunch and a coffee.
Perched high up above the coast, Ravello offers fabulous views and photo opportunities. Hike up to Ravello or down from the coastal town of Amalfi or take a taxi when anchored along the Amalfi Coast on a southern Italian luxury crewed yacht charter.
Ceramics shop in Ravello, Amalfi Coast
