"A wonderful place from which to observe the end of the world," said Gore Vidal, the American writer known for his essays, novels, screenplays and Broadway plays. Vidal would know. His second home was in Ravello. For centuries, the town's charm, luxuriant gardens, stately villas and unescapeable views have allured the rich and famous like Greta Garbo, Richard Wagner, Winston Churchill and Virginia Woolf, to name just a few.
Unlike some of the more popular Amalfi Coast towns, Ravello is not located by the sea. It sits atop a beautifully lush and green cliff offering some of the best views of the coastline. The town by default is an oasis of peace, tranquility and romance. It's no wonder it is probably the most exclusive town for weddings along the Amalfi Coast.
If a relaxing day taking in all this beauty and repose is not enough for you, there's plenty more to see and do in Ravello. There are shops to wander through (don't miss my favorite ceramic shop), ruins and antiquity to explore (like the Villa Rufolo), and restaurants where you can eat a fabulous meal and enjoy even more of those splendid views!
To get to Ravello from Amalfi, hourly SITA buses take you in and upland to Ravello in about 25-30 minutes. If you have a car, leave Amalfi towards Maiori. Watch for the signs taking you off the SS163 and leading you to Ravello. You will need to park your car along the street outside the town's tunnel-like gate. Parking is extremely difficult, especially in summer months. If you are lucky enough to find a spot, make sure all tires are within the solid line, otherwise face getting a ticket.
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