AC8 - Ravello and Paestum

A slow uphill drive along a very narrow road past several wineries and olive factories leads to Ravello, a rural village un-tainted by tourism, perched on top of the mountain cliff above Amalfi and Minori. Ravello, is famous for its breath-taking views, natural beauty, and ancient monuments, presented at their best in the breathtaking gardens of Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo. There are also many classical concerts held in the gardens of Villa Rufolo, located just off the main square of Ravello, tickets cost approximately 20,00 Euro each. Apart from the main cathedral, and history museum there are many other churches to visit. Along the narrow arches of Via Roma, you will find a few small boutiques, and scattered around the vicinity are some traditional local restaurants with a cuisine quite different from those close to the sea; Cumpà Cosimo, Da Salvatore, Villa Maria and Villa Amore, are all exceptional in their own ways.

Unlike Pompeii and even Herculaneum, Paestum can often be deserted. The gleaming white marble of ancient Greek temples, set against the dark brown hills and deep blue sea, provide a very Greek experience in Italy. Today, the preserved temple of Hera II (once believed to be the Temple of Poseidon) is one of three. (See also the temple of Hera I) Part of the interior is a colonnade with two rows of columns, including the superimposed upper level which supported the roof, therefore illustrating the standard Doric form: 6 columns on the end and 14 columns on the side. We recommend hiring a guide for the sites and to visit the archaeological museum in the vicinity, which contains a rich collection of Greek art and antiquities.

This tour includes a Professional English-speaking driver. Due to strict Italian laws & regulations that protect officially licensed guides, our drivers can only comment and explain the sights from inside the vehicle and are not allowed to do so once they are outside the vehicle. A guide, where needed, can be hired on request at an extra cost.', 'Comfortable walking shoes are suggested for this tour.