Navigating & Beyond: Ravello

Public Transportation: SITA Sud Buses

SITA Sud buses are the most common and economical way to travel between towns on the Amalfi Coast. They operate along the main coastal road (SS163) and on routes climbing to hilltop towns like Ravello.

Ravello has a direct connection to Amalfi, the central transport hub, via SITA Sud Line 5110 (Amalfi-Ravello-Scala). From Amalfi, you can reach other coastal towns, Salerno, and Sorrento.

Travel Details

Tickets: Purchase beforehand from Tabaccherie or newsstands. Validate upon boarding.
Hours: Generally operate from early morning (6 AM) until late evening (9-10 PM).
Frequency: Varies by season and route; Ravello-Amalfi route is frequent during peak hours. Reduced service on Sundays.
Accessibility: Buses are generally not wheelchair accessible due to steep steps and limited interior space. Ravello also presents challenges.

Short Journey

Single ticket (up to 10 km) for approx. €1.30 - €2.50.

Hourly Pass

90-minute validity for approx. €2.50, allowing transfers.

UNICO Costiera Pass

24-hour pass for €12, or 3-day pass for €20. Unlimited SITA Sud travel on Amalfi Coast routes.

Tips for Efficient Bus Travel

Preparation

Buy tickets in advance to avoid delays.
Check SITA Sud schedules (tourist offices, online).
Arrive early at stops, especially in high season.

Onboard Experience

Scenic Seating: Sit on the side facing the sea for best views (usually right when descending from Ravello).
Patience: Traffic can extend travel times, especially in summer.
Navigation: Use a mapping app to track your progress and stops.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

White vehicles with "TAXI" sign. Found at designated stands (Piazza Duomo in Ravello).

Fares & Payment

Costly due to winding roads. Amalfi to Ravello is €30-€40. Cash preferred, confirm credit card option.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and similar services are not widely available in Ravello/Amalfi Coast in the typical on-demand sense.

Safety Tips

Always use licensed taxis or reputable pre-booked private transfers recommended by your hotel.

Walking & Cycling in Ravello

Walking is the main way to explore Ravello's historic center. Cycling offers unique challenges.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Ravello's historic center is highly pedestrian-friendly, with restricted vehicle access.
Expect inclines and many stairs; these walks reveal hidden spots and viewpoints.
Explore Piazza Duomo, Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone, and charming side streets on foot.
Popular downhill walk from Ravello to Atrani (15-20 mins) then Amalfi (additional 10-15 mins).

Cycling & Safety Notes

Bicycle infrastructure is very limited in Ravello and along the Amalfi Coast.
Steep, narrow, winding coastal roads are generally not suitable for casual cycling due to heavy traffic.
Safety is a major concern on the main coastal road; dedicated cycling lanes are rare.
Stick to pedestrianized areas and dedicated walking paths whenever possible.

Walking Tour Options

Self-guided walks are easy with a good map or navigation app.
Guided walking tours of Ravello and its villas are available.
Tours often provide historical context and local insights.

The Ravello to Amalfi walk is a popular and rewarding downhill path.
This path passes through picturesque lemon groves.
Comfortable footwear is useful for the numerous stairs.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Organized day trips frequently drop off passengers at points in Ravello. Some regional hop-on-hop-off services exist on wider coastal routes.

Boat Taxis

No direct service to Ravello. Widely available from coastal towns like Amalfi for scenic coastal travel, avoiding road traffic, or reaching islands.

Accessibility Notes

Ravello's terrain (steep inclines, stairs, cobbled streets) poses significant mobility challenges. Public buses are not wheelchair accessible.

Navigating Mobility Challenges

Ravello's unique geography, with its steep inclines and numerous stairs, presents specific considerations for travelers with mobility needs.

Town Accessibility

Ravello's terrain includes many stairs and uneven surfaces.
Most historic sites, villas, and public areas have limited or no ramp access.
Public buses (SITA Sud) are not designed for wheelchair accessibility.
Taxis are an option for direct transport between points, but internal navigation remains challenging.

Planning for Accessibility

Travelers with mobility challenges research specific accessible accommodations.
Careful itinerary planning, focusing on easily reachable viewpoints and main squares.
Confirm accessibility directly with venues and transport providers beforehand.
Consider professional assistance for mobility support if needed.

Local Transport distinctions

SITA Sud Bus Experience

The SITA Sud buses are designed for the challenging coastal roads.

Expect winding routes and occasional congestion.

Ferry Travel Benefits

Ferries between coastal towns offer scenic views and bypass road traffic.

A relaxing way to experience the coastline.

Walking as main

Walking is the most rewarding way to discover Ravello's charm.

Wear comfortable shoes for daily exploration.

Specialized Transport Not Present

Unique Systems

Ravello does not feature cable cars or funiculars.
There are no unique local rail transport systems.
The main uphill transport is the SITA Sud bus service.

Regional Connections

Organized tour buses are common for day trips to the broader Amalfi Coast.
Water transportation (ferries, boat taxis) is regional, from coastal towns.
Access these services from Amalfi after descending from Ravello.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians/Cyclists

No specific "no-go" areas exist in Ravello's pedestrian zones.
Exercise extreme caution if walking/cycling along the main coastal road (SS163) outside of designated pedestrian areas.
Many sections of SS163 lack sidewalks; traffic can be fast and dense.
Prioritize safety by sticking to pedestrianized areas and dedicated walking paths.

Traffic is often congested, specifically during peak tourist season.
Steep terrain and winding roads increase the challenge for cyclists.
It is not recommended to cycle on the main coastal road for casual riders.

Final Travel Tips

A well-informed traveler navigates Ravello and the Amalfi Coast with comfort and ease.

Seamless Journey

Consider arriving at Naples (NAP) for proximity.
Utilize trains to Salerno or Naples, then connect via bus or ferry.
Ferries offer scenic travel and traffic avoidance along the coast.
Be mindful of winding coastal roads and potential traffic.

Within Ravello

Ravello's center is pedestrian-friendly; enjoy walking its streets.
Comfortable footwear is a daily necessity due to inclines and stairs.
SITA Sud buses connect Ravello to Amalfi and other coastal towns.
Purchase bus tickets in advance from Tabaccherie.

Best Time

Shoulder seasons (April-May, Sep-Oct) for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.

Budget Smart

Utilize public transport and local eateries for savings. Consider an UNICO Costiera ticket.

Stay Safe

Ravello is safe. Carry travel insurance and keep emergency contacts handy.

Packing Checklist

Essentials

Passport, visa (if needed), travel insurance details.
Universal travel adapter, portable charger.
Small first aid kit, prescription medications with documentation.

Comfort & Activity

Comfortable walking shoes are .
Layered clothing for varying temperatures.
Camera with extra batteries/memory for views.

Final Thoughts for a Memorable Trip

Ravello offers an unique, tranquil experience on the Amalfi Coast. Its beauty, history, and artistic heritage make it a truly special destination.

Embrace the pedestrian charm, savor the panoramic views, and allow the peaceful atmosphere to captivate you.

Navigating Ravello & Beyond