comparisons
Positano vs Ravello
Two of the three main towns on the Amalfi Coast. Positano is the vertical pastel postcard; Ravello is the quieter, higher village with the famous cliffside gardens and music festival.
Curatorial note
Choose Positano if you want the Amalfi Coast you've seen in photographs — the beach, the boutiques, the vertical scene — and don't mind the crowds or the climb. Choose Ravello for the gardens, the views from above, the music festival, and a calmer, more grown-up stay. Ravello is the better base; Positano is the better day photo.
Town · Campania
Ravello
Ravello is worth a half-day from Amalfi or Positano. Villa Cimbrone's Terrace of Infinity is the view. It is quieter and cooler than the coast towns, which is why it's the retreat.
Town · Campania
Positano
Positano is worth a night if you can afford it, or a day visit if you can't. It is the image of the Amalfi Coast. Stay elsewhere and ferry in if the prices are too steep.
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