Jessica & John
Things To Do
Villa Rufolo
One of the most popular travel destinations on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy’s region of Campania. The Villa Rufolo and its beautiful gardens date back to the 13th-century, when they were built for the wealthy and prominent Rufolo family. This family held court in their extensive villa, which at one point was noted as having “more rooms than there are days in a years.” The fate of the Rufolo family, like many wealthy merchant families, followed the ups and downs of the Republic of Amalfi. As the wealth of the family declined in the late Middle Ages, the villa was sold to other families in Ravello, and over the centuries many of the fine buildings fell into a date of disrepair. The Villa Rufolo was bought in the 19th century by the wealthy Scottish industrialist Francis Neville Reid, who restored and altered much of the villa. Fortunately, there are still many elements of the striking medieval architecture still to be seen while strolling through the gardens of the Villa Rufolo.
Trattoria Pizzeria Cumpa' Cosimo
Must have lunch here! Visit not just for the food, but for the wonderful atmosphere and warm hugs from "Mama" (The owner, "Classic Italian" Grandma, who walks around the restaurant in her apron making sure everyone is eating their food!). Mama makes sure you don't leave hungry, always bringing out more and more food for you to "taste". Mangia!!
Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast
Check out this super luxe hotel for apertivo at sunset or after-dinner cocktails in the lively Piano Bar. Paired with stunning views and live music, aperitivo is our favourite time of day.
Palazzo Avino
Another one of our favorite spots to enjoy Apertivo at sunset with its unbelievable views and ambiance.
Gardens of Villa Cimbrone
Obviously.... our favorite "thing to do" in Ravello- walking the stunning gardens of Villa Cimbrone (well worth the 10 minute up-hill walk, trust us, you won't be sorry). But don't worry, you will see all of the gardens of Villa Cimbrone on our wedding day, so "save the best for last"! We've got you covered...
Atrani & Amalfi
There are hiking paths all over Ravello. It is fun to "get lost" in the winding streets and small villages that look like they have been stuck in time. One of our favorite days was taking the walking path all the way down from Ravello and visiting the small coastal villages of Atrani and Amalfi (you've got to check out the Duomo in Amalfi). Spend the day walking around and bring your bathing suit. Have lunch at Le Arcate (in Atrani)... and then go jump in the refreshing Tyrrhenian Sea after! The hike back up wasn't as much fun as it was on the way down (partly due to the fact that Johnny thought he was taking a "short cut", however we ended up on dirt hiking paths lost on the side of a mountain). There are plenty of taxi's available in Atrani and Amalfi that you can take back up to Ravello (a 5 minute drive)....or just make sure you wear appropriate shoes for the hike back up!
Caseificio Staiano Di Staiano Biagio
Learn how to make Fresh Mozzarella here!
Ceramiche Cosmolena - Ravello
Go shopping! The Amalfi Coast is full of little shops, however if you're looking to do some serious ceramic shopping, head to this ceramic factory and have some beautiful pieces shipped back to the US!
Capri
Capri is one of our favorite places on earth. The magic of Capri comes out at night, once the crowds and tourists have all left for the day. We suggest spending at least two nights on Capri- doing a day trip can feel quite crowded and overwhelming. Capri can be reached via Ferry or private boat transfer. If you don't have time to spend a couple nights in Capri, then try to do a boat tour for the day...head over to Capri and tour by sea- and jump in the famous "Blue Grotto"! Here are some of our favorite places on Capri... Favorite Hotel: Capri Tiberio Palace Favorite Restaurant: Ristorante Panorama Capri (ask for "Chip-Chip"- and be ready to try some of his homemade Grappa) Favorite Activities: La Fontelina Beach Club (make a reservation in advance); Anacapri (located on the other side of the island- take the chair lift to the top of the mountain for the most incredible views!)