Hotel Palumbo in Ravello

Originally built in the 12th century, the Hotel Palumbo was a private palazzo until 1875, when its owners turned it into a hotel. The great composer Richard Wagner stayed there and even composed many pieces on the piano which is still in use at the hotel. The public rooms were decorated in the 1600s and incorporate intricately frescoed ceilings and Greek and Roman columns from Paestum and around the Amalfi Coast. The hotel's restaurant, Confalone, makes use of these grand rooms and includes a terrace overlooking one of the most spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast. The hotel is an exquisite marvel, worth visiting even if the high room rates (600 Euros for a double in the summer!) make a stay out of the question. Stop in during the evening to truly make the most of this romantic place.