Free day in Amalfi Coast

Go to Ravello to see beautiful sweeping views of the coast. It is a charming town and best of all, unlike Positano, it's flat.

Thanks Suki, we are planning on it. Do you recommend anything specific that stood out or place to eat?

Ravello is our favorite town in the Amalfi Coast. Lunch at Villa Maria overlooks the terraced coast line and is worth the splurge. I would also recommend a walk through gardens at Villa Cimbrone will also provide those iconic views. That would be my perfect day in Ravello.

I hired a water taxi by local operator, Frankie. Frankieboattours.com. When I returned to CA I have not found him online but was able to find him online while in Praiano. He was less expensive than any tour. He took myself and two friends out around the islands, swimming in some caves and snorkeling. He was fun and local. I also hiked the Path of the Gods which had inspiring views, however, be ready to hike up and up. Once on top it is a nice but busy path.

Trattoria Cumna Cosimo is my favorite local restaurant in Ravello. Not fancy, but like eating at Nona's house. In fact, Nona will probably come around to be sure you like your food. They do a special tasting plate of about five of their best pastas. Really good.

Another vote for Ravello. You must take a local bus up from the bus area in Amalfi. It is mixed in with the SITA buses, so be sure to ask the driver if it is the bus to Ravello. Buy your ticket at a newspaper stand across the street. Go early! The bus gets crowded as the day progresses. The views are magnificent! Tour Villa Rufolo and the gardens. Have lunch. I wish I could remember where we ate, but it was outside overlooking the terraced hillside. It was our best experience on the Amalfi Coast! Wish I could add one of our pictures.

You can take ferry from positano to amalfi which I enjoyed more than the bus. Views are beautiful. Then take bus to Ravello. When we went in July it was outrageously and unpleasantly crowded. To avoid that scene, we walked back to amalfi which was quite pleasant .

Beth

Sounds like Ravello is a consensus choice, and I do not disagree in the slightest. Ristorante Da Salvatore was one of the best meals I have had anywhere. It’s right off the bus stop, and has a fantastic view towards Maiori. Even without the view I’d give it eleven thumbs up. Villa Cimbrone is a must see, and there’s a lovely shaded grass terrace where you can relax and have a drink.

My daughter and her husband just plunked themselves on the beach loungers and availed themselves of one of the masseuse services that wander the beach offering massages ( for a fee of course)

We went to Trattoria Cumna Cosimo too! The Nonna did come out and talk with us too :)

I would do a mix of Ravello and hiking, one of my favorite places in the world is a hike into the mountains from almost across the street from the paper museum in Amalfi :)

So my plan now is to take a boat from Positano to Amalfi then a bus straight to Ravello. After enjoying the area for a bit I was hoping to head over to the town of Atrani. Did anyone walk back from here? RS book states this hike from Ravello to Atrani is for serious hikers. Is it dangerous? Once in Atrani, I just assumed I could walk back to Amalfi.

Does this sound crazy?

Thanks again for alllll the amazing suggestions!!! So helpful!!
Tara

We have done the hike between Ravello, Atrani and Amalfi many times. It is all stairs and that why it’s listed for serious hikers. Not dangerous but it can be challenging depending on your fitness level. If you’re going from Ravello to Atrani you would be going downhill the entire time.

Adding to other replies:
Ravello is indeed magical. Mimi's is terrific for lunch or dinner. Make a reservation to get seating in the lovely terrace.

Ravello mountain trails connect to Scala, Minuta, Pontone, then Amalfi. I didn't notice signs taking you to Atrani. But it's right next to Amalfi so yes, easily walkable.

Because of the location of Ravello, you'll be going mostly downhill to any of those other towns!

Also: if you haven't considered the Path of the Gods hike yet you should check that out. Fabulous mountain cliff hike with views of Praiano and Positano. It took us 2 hours 25 minutes for 3.5 miles.

Enjoy!