Villa Cimbrone Gardens

The basics

The 11th-century Villa Cimbrone is now a luxury hotel and restaurant, but its formal English-style gardens are open to the public. The grounds were reworked in the early 20th century by Ernest Beckett, an English aristocrat who owned the property until the 1960s, and today are dotted with colorful rose gardens, statuary, temples, and a Moorish pavilion. The crown jewel is the Terrace of Infinity (Terrazza dell’Infinito), which offers what many consider the most iconic view on the Amalfi Coast.

Villa Cimbrone is perched on a rocky outcrop in Ravello, one of the few towns along the Amalfi Coast not set at sea level and accessible only via a steep road up the cliffside. Given the heavy traffic that plagues the coastline much of the year, consider booking an Amalfi Coast tour or shore excursion from Naples, Sorrento, or Salerno with a stop in Ravello and leave the hassle of driving to a professional. Most tours include free time in Ravello to explore the sights at your own pace, so book tickets to Villa Cimbrone in advance to avoid a delay at the entrance.

Things to know before you go

A stop at the Terrace of Infinity at Villa Cimbrone is a must for photography enthusiasts, and the view is particularly glorious in the early morning and late afternoon. The villa is only accessible to guests of the hotel and restaurant; the gardens are open to the public. Ravello is relatively flat and easy to navigate for those with limited mobility, and the gardens are accessible to wheelchair users. Bring a hat, sunblock, and choose comfortable shoes to tour the outdoor gardens, especially on summer days.

How to get there

Villa Cimbrone is in Ravello, the clifftop village above Amalfi, and can only be reached by bus or car. Tours and shore excursions usually include round-trip transportation, and are the most time-efficient and stress-free way to explore Ravello and the other top sights on the Amalfi Coast. There are also public and private buses that connect Ravello to nearby towns like Amalfi and Positano.

When to get there

The belvedere at Villa Cimbrone is a photographer’s paradise, and the light is best for capturing the beauty of the Amalfi Coast in the early morning or late afternoon. If visiting between March and November, check the Ravello Concert Society's annual schedule of chamber music concerts to enjoy a performance on the Terrace of Infinity.

Villa Cimbrone

The 11th-century original architecture of Villa Cimbrone was almost completely redone by Beckett after he purchased the property in the early 20th century. The residence became a retreat of celebrities and intellectuals, frequented by figures like Greta Garbo and her lover Leopold Stokowski, as well as Virginia Woolf, DH Lawrence, Winston Churchill, and Salvador Dalí.

What is the best time of day to visit Villa Cimbrone Gardens?

While Villa Cimbrone Gardens is open all day, it’s wise to aim for the early morning or the late afternoon if you’re hoping for tranquility. The sunset hour is particularly lovely, but can draw a crowd.

Is visiting Villa Cimbrone Gardens worth it?

Most people say yes. While the admission fee is higher than other attractions, and there are gardens along the Amalfi Coast that can be accessed for free, there’s nothing quite like Villa Cimbrone Gardens. The spectacular view from its Terrace of Infinity (Terrazza dell’Infinito) is considered one of the Amalfi Coast’s best panoramas, while its winding paths, old-world Mediterranean ambiance, and colorful displays of flowers are truly beautiful.

How long does it take to tour Villa Cimbrone Gardens?

That depends. Typically, you’ll want at least an hour or two to explore the estate, but don’t rush it. Villa Cimbrone Gardens is one of the most peaceful spots on the Amalfi Coast and it benefits from a slower-paced amble—not a sprint. Consider bringing a notebook and sketching, if that’s something you’ll enjoy.

Are there restrooms and amenities at Villa Cimbrone Gardens?

Yes, Villa Cimbrone Gardens has restrooms located near the main entrance and within its café. While facilities can feel a little rustic, they’re clean and well maintained. The on-site café serves light meals, snacks, and drinks.

Do you need reservations to visit Villa Cimbrone Gardens?

No, reservations are not required for either Villa Cimbrone Gardens or Villa Rufolo, another historic property located in Ravello. Simply show up and purchase an admission ticket. Villa Cimbrone also operates a five-star hotel and its guests can access the gardens with a booking, as well as the villa itself, which is not open to the public.

Is Villa Cimbrone Gardens good for kids?

Yes and no. Some kids might enjoy exploring the gardens, seeing its many plants, and discovering the estate’s various nooks and crannies. But typically, Villa Cimbrone Gardens is considered a destination for adult visitors, rather than a family-friendly attraction.