Staying Connected: Ravello

Local SIM Cards

Purchasing an Italian SIM card is often the most cost-effective way to get mobile data and make calls. Major providers TIM, Vodafone, and WindTre are available in larger towns.

SIM Card Tips

Phone must be unlocked.
Shops in Amalfi or Salerno.
Plans include data, calls, texts.

ESIM Technology

For newer smartphones that support eSIM, this is a convenient option. Activate a digital SIM plan online before arrival.

ESIM Providers

Airalo offers Italy plans.
Holafly provides various plans.
Avoids physical shop visits.

Internet Access

Most hotels, B&Bs, and many restaurants and cafes in Ravello offer free Wi-Fi for guests. Quality and speed vary.

Connection Notes

Free Wi-Fi at hotels and cafes.
Public hotspots are less common.
Sufficient for basic browsing.

Portable Wi-Fi & Language

A portable Wi-Fi device offers dedicated internet. Language barriers are minimal in tourist areas.

Device & Phrases

Solis Wi-Fi offers portable devices.
Rosetta Stone supports Italian learning.
English is widely spoken by staff.

Language & Phrases

Translation Resources

Google Translate for offline use.
Camera translation helps with menus.
Carry an Italian phrasebook.
Language apps like Duolingo.

Important Phrases

Hello: Buongiorno / Buonasera.
Thank you: Grazie.
Please: Per favore.
The bill, please: Il conto, per favore.

Local Courtesy

Attempting a few Italian words is always appreciated by locals. It shows respect and opens doors.

Schedules & Banking

Navigating daily routines and financial matters.

Shop Hours

Shops generally operate from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, then reopen 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Tourist-oriented shops may stay open longer.

Restaurant Hours

Lunch: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM. Dinner: 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM. Dining before 7:30 PM might find you alone.

Attraction Hours

Opening hours vary seasonally, typically 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, closing 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Check official websites.

Banking & ATMs

Banks operate Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM. ATMs are available 24/7.

Cash Access

ATMs (Bancomat) are widely available.
Look for ATMs near Piazza Duomo.
Banks are closed weekends and holidays.

Public Holidays

Italy observes numerous public and religious holidays. Banks, post offices, and many shops may close. Public transport may have reduced schedules.

Holiday Planning

Easter.
Ferragosto (August 15).
Christmas (December 25-26).

Seasonal Operations

Low Season Impact

Many hotels and restaurants close.
Limited ferry services.
Confirm opening hours if traveling November to March.

Greeting Customs

Buongiorno or Buonasera is customary.
Ciao is informal.
Handshakes for formal introductions.

Plan Ahead

Public holidays can affect availability of services. Check national calendars when planning your trip.

Cultural Conduct

Observe local traditions and customs for a harmonious visit.

Appropriate Attire

Smart casual clothing is appropriate. Avoid overly relaxed wear in town centers, churches, or restaurants.

Dress Code

Shoulders and knees covered in churches.
Beachwear is unsuitable for town.
Italians value style.

Dining & Tipping

Meals are unhurried. A "coperto" or "servizio" may be included, lessening need for an additional tip.

Dining hints

Do not rush meals.
Bread for soaking sauces.
Espresso is standard; cappuccino for breakfast.

Photography Guidelines

Photography is generally allowed. Be respectful in churches: no flash during services.

Photo Courtesy

Ask before photographing individuals.
No flash in churches.
Respect privacy.

Sensitive Topics

Avoid discussing politics or sensitive historical events. Do not criticize local customs.

Conversation Caution

Mind noise levels, especially during siesta.
Practice patience and politeness.
Bargaining not customary in shops.

Gender & LGBTQ+

General Tolerance

Italy has traditional values.
Major cities are more accepting.
Public displays of affection may gather attention in conservative areas.

Consideration

Exercise discretion.
Progress on LGBTQ+ rights.
Experience varies by location.

Accessibility in Ravello

Mobility Challenges

Ravello is challenging for mobility issues.
Numerous stairs, inclines, cobbled streets.
Limited ramp access at attractions.

Available Support

SITA Sud buses are not wheelchair accessible.
Taxis may support travel between points.
Specialized services are limited.

Respectful Travel

A harmonious visit arises from observing local customs and demonstrating cultural respect.

Mobility & Support

Information for travelers with specific accessibility needs.

Mobility Infrastructure

Ravello's topography presents challenges. The town is on a steep hillside with numerous stairs and inclines.

Navigating Ravello

Cobbled streets are uneven.
Many historical sites are multi-level.
Limited or no ramp access.

Accessible Attractions

Some ground-level areas of Villa Rufolo or Piazza Duomo may be accessible, but full exploration of gardens is difficult.

Sites for Access

Villa Rufolo ground areas.
Main Piazza Duomo.
Villa Cimbrone has many steps.

Visual & Hearing Impairments

Specialized services for visual or hearing impairments are limited in Ravello.

Support for Impairments

Travel with a companion.
Engage specialized tour operators.
Signage is in Italian and English.

Accessibility Resources

For detailed current information, consult specialized travel agencies or online forums dedicated to accessible travel.

Information Sources

Websites and blogs from travelers with disabilities.
Research specific hotel features before booking.
Firsthand experiences offer insights.

General Accessibility Notes

Public Transport

SITA Sud buses are generally not wheelchair accessible due to steep steps.
Taxis might be an option for direct transport, but terrain poses challenges.

Terrain Warning

Pavement surfaces can be uneven throughout the town.

Informed Choices

Thorough research on accessibility features before your visit is a sound approach for travelers with specific needs.

Staying Connected