Amalfi & Ravello

Amalfi ★★

The city that gives the coast its name was one of the most powerful maritime republics of Italy in the Middle Ages (alongside Venice, Genoa, and Pisa). Today, Amalfi is a picturesque coastal town with an impressive cathedral (Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea), whose Arab-Norman facade and the cloister "Chiostro del Paradiso" (3 €) showcase a unique blend of styles. The Limoncello production of the Amalfi Coast originated here — tastings in many shops.

Ravello ★★★

300 meters above the sea, Ravello sits as the "balcony of the Amalfi Coast". Two villas make the place unforgettable: The Villa Rufolo (7 €) inspired Richard Wagner for the magical gardens of Parsifal — the terraces overlooking the coast are breathtaking. The Villa Cimbrone (7 €) has the "Terrazza dell'Infinito" — a balustrade with busts over the abyss, often called the most beautiful viewpoint in Italy.

In summer, the Ravello Festival (July–September) takes place: classical concerts on an open-air stage above the sea. Wagner's music, Ravello's view, sunset — if there is a more perfect place for a concert, it has yet to be discovered.