Many destinations along the Amalfi Coast stand out for their incredible panoramic views of the…read moremountains and Mediterranean Sea. In Ravello, there are two better-known villas touting scenic eye candy worth checking out (with many other more or lesser known viewpoints)--Villa Cimbrione and Villa Rufolo. The latter takes its name from the wealthy merchant family that built this domicile in the 13th century. In the 14th century, banquets were hosted here for King Robert II of Naples and other Norman royalty. It was even written up in a story by Italian Renaissance author Boccaccio in "Decameron," published in 1353. In 1851, Sir Francis Neville Reid, a Scottish botanist and philanthropist, visited the villa in a state of deterioration and neglect, purchased it and renovated what was remaining of the property and gardens. Famously German composer Richard Wagner visited in 1880 and was so inspired he remained in Ravello to complete the second act of "Parsifal," an opera that had been in work for two decades. Today this villa is a historic landmark and cultural center, hosting musical concerts, open to the public for €8 regular admission, €6 discounted, tickets available at the entrance. There is a Moorish-inspired smaller tower and a taller bell tower from which you can climb to the roof to take in the views from behind a glass barrier.* The staircase inside this bell tower stands out in its criss-crossing design for stairs going up and down--reminiscent of MC Escher's lithographs showing impossible perspectives. From terraces and gardens outdoors behind the villa you can also catch sight of the hillside and coastline. While I was there in April, the gardens were in transition, they had various signs posted that apologized for the bare appearance due to recent storms. To me they still looked nice and I appreciated that they were so conscientious with upkeep! Wandering around you can spend anywhere from 30 min to 1.5 hours here. It's conveniently located next to the main town piazza and close walking distance to local restaurants and businesses. For more info: https://www.ravello.com/attractions/villa-rufolo/ *and from which I tried very carefully to hold my phone above--and not plummet it into the hundreds of feet below--when taking videos.

If you're already up in Ravello, you definitely need to stop by Villa Rufolo. To be totally honest,…read moreit doesn't quite have the same "wow" factor or the massive, sweeping panoramic views as Villa Cimbrone, but it is still absolutely worth checking out. The gardens here are beautiful, and the way the colorful flowers frame the old stone ruins and the ocean in the background is gorgeous--definitely a prime photo spot. It's right off the main square too, so it's super easy to get to compared to the trek out to Cimbrone.

One of the top 5 meals I've ever eaten, in one of the most beautiful places I've ever been, with…read moresome of the best service I've ever experienced, for an amazingly realistic price. 2 entrees, a shared salad (that was plenty for 2), a tremendous bottle of wine recommended by the head waiter, and dessert, plus they offer Prosecco to start, and little breads and sweets as you go, for 100 euros. Worth every penny.

The Mortella Garden is a beautiful place to spend a few hours looking at a wonder, mature garden…read moreperched above the sea. The terracing is fabulous as it winds it's way up the hill to the Cafe (delicious food) and to the top where the outdoor amphitheater overlooks the beach. Very worthwhile.