Guide to Amalfi Coast

Stretching out for 50 kilometres along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula in Italy, all the way east until it reaches Vietri Sul Mare. The Amalfi Coast is a popular holiday destination filled with lush beaches, stunning sea views, and a rich tapestry of history.

The coastline here is characterised by towering cliffs, coves, and pastel-painted villages that were once hugely important in the fishing world. Getting to the Amalfi Coast is an adventure in itself, as the road that winds between Salerno and Sorrento takes you past breath-taking villas, charming vineyards, and ancient lemon groves.

What Cities are Part of the Amalfi Coast?

• Salerno

  A lively seaport town sitting along the south-east coast of Italy. Its charms come from its sparkling beaches, nature treks, and tranquil atmosphere. It has a vast history with multiple cultures inhabiting the area, promising an array of ancient artefacts and attractions for the history buffs out there. With most of the town’s attractions within a short distance of each other, you can lace up those walking shoes and head off for a full adventure on foot. With stunning gardens, epic lookouts, and peaceful spots perfect to visit with your partner or posse.

• Ravello

  When looking up images of the Amalfi Coast, you most likely have come across the cliff side gardens. These stunning gardens have jaw-dropping views overlooking the spectacular Mediterranean sea and the surrounding coastland, such an unforgettable view it’s an attraction is not worth missing. And that is not all Ravello has to offer, with charming locals, cobblestone streets, and a perfect blend of beautiful flora and ancient structures.

• Amalfi

  At the centre of everything is Amalfi once the main trading centre in ancient times. Famous for its extensive history, the area was once the capital of the Duchy of Amalfi as well as being home to astonishing medieval architecture. After discovering all the town’s secrets, visit the deluxe beaches within for a truly tranquil afternoon in the waters.

• Atrani

  

  Many postcards and posters for the coast feature the charming town of Atrani. Highlighting southern Italy’s beauty with the town’s ancient buildings, rich culture, and epic seaside view. The main appeal for this small town is the vast history and religion engraved in the buildings, traditions, and lifestyle it possesses, with ancient fortresses and olden churches dating back to the Roman Empire period.

• Praiano

  Once an ancient fishing village, Praiano has grown in popularity over the years, now becoming one of the coast’s best delights. Notorious as a summer tourist spot ever since it was a summer home for the dogs from the Duchy of Amalfi. The area is bursting with colour, from its blue waters, orange and pink buildings, to finally its lush greenery.

• Positano

  

  Typically, the main focus in Amalfi Coast’s advertisements, Positano easily seduces visitors with its beauty. It is made up of colourful houses perched haphazardly on the surrounding cliff face, so it looks almost like they are tumbling down the mountainside.

  With charming pebble beaches and narrow streets lined with boutique shops, Positano offers a deluxe stay amidst stunning scenery. Travel down the steep narrow roads of this coastal town and spend a day in the chic beach area, stepping away to refuel at the assortment of restaurants promising mouth-watering local delights. 

  In summer, the beach is a hive of activity thanks to the crystal clear waters and abundance of eateries and bars. Make sure to bring your camera to this town as your friends won’t believe the sights you see without proof!

• Maiori

  A favourite for tourists, for Maiori, is home to one of the biggest beaches around. A popular resort since ancient Roman times, the town celebrates its history with annual festivals and daily tours inside the earliest buildings and churches.  

• Sorrento

  

  Sorrento may be on the smaller size, but it has a massive reputation among tourists. welcoming locals, splendorous scenery, and oh so romantic vibes. Sorrento is a rainbow of colour! With sapphire waters of the Mediterranean sea crashing against Sorrento’s white rocks. While pastel pink and yellow buildings line the coast and lush greenery flood the surrounds. Still not convinced? Read our reasons you should pack your bags and head straight to this coastal wonder.

  Capri is just minutes away. The Island of Capri is renowned for its glitz and glam. As the destination many celebrities flock to in the summer months, it’s packed full of luxurious boutiques and high-end restaurants. As well as pretending to be a celeb for the day, you can check out the expansive history of the island at the many ruins and old churches, and discover spectacular views of the surrounding scenery from the top of Monte Solaro.

• Conca Dei Marini

  

  A favourite for the well-off travellers since ancient Roman times, Conca dei Marini is a sublime hideaway for the traveller. In ancient times, this town became an important marine stop for trading and refuelling, however, it grew into more of a holiday retreat for high-profile types such as Jackie Kennedy and Carlo Ponti. With green terraced gardens, villas overhanging the jagged clifftops, and stunning natural wonders nearby including the Emerald Grotto.

• Minori

  This is where the local Italians come for a holiday. With sublime beaches, festive seafront, and scenic surrounds. The town has a more genuine atmosphere, as they aren’t as reliant on tourists, known as the scruffier sister to Amalfi and Positano. One of the first things you must do when visiting Minori is to try their local pasta. This traditional style has been passed down generations, dating back to medieval times.

• Cetara

  

  Located south-west along the Amalfi Coast, this village is known as the world tuna capital. This village hasn’t been tainted by tourism, home to a gritty, hardworking fishing establishment with a stack of culture and charm.

• Erchie

  Home to lush greenery with olive and lemon trees covering the village. The name ‘Erchie’ comes from an old temple within that was built in honour of Hercules. The name of the village has developed over time, with at points being named Ircle, Ercla, and even Hercla. Spend a weekend here to try the local wine and nibble on the delicious olives.

• Vietri Sul Mare

  

  One of Amalfi Coast’s true treasures, acting as the gateway to the coast’s many villages. The village is best known for their porcelain bowls and plates, decorated in unique patterns and bright colours of yellow, pink, and blues. They aren’t the only things decorated, with an endless amount of tiles covering every corner of town, creating a truly stunning scenery. 

Popular Activities in the Amalfi Coast

Once you’re on the Amalfi Coast, there is plenty to keep you busy. Whether you’re looking to kick back and relax on the beach, check out the vast history of the region, or simply admire the stunning natural beauty, there’s something for you.

• Take a Boat Ride

  There are many ways to explore the Amalfi Coast, but seeing it by boat is one of the better options. When you’re out at sea, you can take in the whole of the coastline from a different perspective and pick out quaint villages that hark back thousands of years.

• Spend a Day at the Beach

  The Amalfi Coast is known for its diverse range of beaches. There are pebbly offerings, swathes of sand, hidden coves, and snorkelling paradises – basically, there’s something for everyone.

  A day at the beach is a must-do if you want a little rest and relaxation. As well as kicking back and relaxing on the sand, you can grab a bite to eat from a local fish restaurant and enjoy the views with a refreshing drink in hand.

• Hit the Road

  The roads around the Amalfi Coast are steeped in history, and you can take one of the most incredible coastal road trips in the world along what’s known as the “road of 1,000 bends”.
  Not for the faint-hearted, this journey lets you experience the Amalfi Coast like it was thousands of years ago.