Nestled along the southern coastline of Italy, the Amalfi Coast is a dream destination for travellers seeking a blend of stunning landscapes and thrilling activities. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know including how to get there, where to stay, how to get around, and things to do in each town.
With its dramatic cliffs, seaside villages, and crystal-clear waters, the Amalfi Coast offers postcard-worthy views everywhere you look. The charming towns dotted along the coastline act as perfect home bases for exploring the surrounding areas.
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back couple of days or an action-packed trip, the Amalfi Coast has got you covered. Adventure lovers can revel in the region’s diverse activities, from hiking along ancient trails to exploring hidden coves accessible only by boat.
For access to our entire 86-page Italy Travel Guide, click here!
On the other hand, the Amalfi Coast exudes a laid-back ambiance that captures the essence of Italian hospitality. Savour the local cuisine, relax on a white sand beach, browse the colourful shops or spend the day lounging at a luxurious hotel pool.
In this guide, we will cover the 6 main areas people typically visit along the Amalfi Coast.
If you are interested in visiting Capri, a small island off the coast, we have a separate blog post outlining our wonderful experience there.
Self Guided Boat Tour in Capri, Italy: How to Save Money + Ditch The Crowds!
How to Get to The Amalfi Coast
The most popular way to reach the Amalfi Coast is to arrive first in Naples. Travellers either get to Naples via high-speed train from other large cities or via plane at the international airport.
From Naples, you have a few different options depending on which town you would like to visit. You can get to Positano, Sorrento, or Amalfi by ferry, bus, or private transport. If you are staying somewhere a bit more remote like Ravello, you can either take a combination of public transportation and walking or hire a private driver to get you to your hotel.
Whenever we travel by ferry in Europe or Asia, we use Ferryhopper! They provide a seamless user experience that makes booking fast and stress-free. By booking through our links, you support us at no additional cost to you. We appreciate you🥰
For access to our entire 86-page Italy Travel Guide, click here!
Where to Stay on The Amalfi Coast
Sorrento: This is the largest town in the area with an Amalfi Coast feel but still accessible by train. It is convenient to get here, but it will take effort to branch out for day trips. This is a great option for those looking for the Amalfi feel without time to see the whole coast.
Positano: Is the most popular place on the Amalfi Coast with a great beach, tons of shops, and killer views. It is full of boutique hotels that come with a high price tag. This is the most luxurious option.
Praiano: Is a cliffside town with a birds-eye vantage point of the coast, a local feel, and lower prices. This is the best budget option.
Amalfi: This gorgeous town is the area’s namesake. It feels less fancy than Positano and is full of shops, restaurants, and things to do. This is a good all around place to stay for travellers without a vehicle.
*By booking accommodation through our tailored maps + links, you support us at no additional cost to you. We appreciate you!*
Ravello: This is where we stayed and we LOVED it. It boasts a luxurious landscape and feels secluded from the crowds. It is located up in the hills, so getting here can be less convenient if you do not rent a motorcycle or have access to a vehicle. This is the most secluded and romantic place to stay for couples.
Maiori and Minori: These two small towns, connected by the 400-step ”Path of the Lemons” have an authentic feel, great food, and inexpensive accommodation. This is a great place to stay with kids.
Getting Around The Amalfi Coast
Each town along this beautiful stretch of coastline is accessible via public bus. It is possible to rent a vehicle, but because of the small, busy, cliffside roads and the price of parking, we would not recommend it. Seaside villages including Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, are also easily accessible by public ferry or private boat.
Our favourite way to explore is by motorcycle. It is much easier to find parking and maneuver the streets, plus there is nothing like cruising along the coast with the ocean breeze in your hair. We would ONLY recommend this if you have previous experience. If you feel comfortable, there are several rental shops to choose from in each town.
For access to our entire 86-page Italy Travel Guide, click here!
How Long Do You Need on The Amalfi Coast
3-7 days is perfect for the Amalfi Coast. Because it takes some effort to get here, we don’t think it’s worth the trip for under 3 days. How long you spend depends on how many towns you want to explore, your budget, and what you would like to do. We came to the coast after 3 weeks of hiking and spent 6 days relishing in the tasty food, incredible views, and laid-back atmosphere.
Now that we’ve got the housekeeping items out of the way, let’s get into the 6 major towns!
Sorrento
Sorrento is a picturesque town that effortlessly combines the charm of historic architecture with breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Known for its inviting atmosphere, Sorrento is warm and welcoming, making it a favoured destination for travellers seeking a relaxed Italian escape.
The town’s pastel-coloured buildings cascade down the cliffs, painting a striking picture with a vibrant blue ocean backdrop. Visitors can wander through the narrow, winding streets, stopping in at family-run cafés and enjoying local shops. Although Sorrento is a little farther from the rest of the Amalfi Coast, it offers frequent connections by ferry and bus.
*By booking accommodation through our tailored maps + links, you support us at no additional cost to you. We appreciate you!*
Places to Eat
- Enjoy the Little Things Bistrot: Fantastic food in Sorrento. Try the spinach raviolini with lemon and sage and the pistachio cannoli. You can thank us later.
- A’Marenna: This little bakery will likely be lined up down the street at lunchtime but their sandwiches are well worth the wait.
Things to Do
Explore the Old Town
The narrow cobblestone streets are filled with shops showcasing local crafts, ceramics, and lemon-themed souvenirs. A stroll down to Marina Grande offers a serene escape, where colourful fishing boats bob on the crystal-clear waters.
For those with a culinary curiosity, Sorrento is an excellent place to take a cooking class, taste wine, or embark on a self-guided food tour. Local delicacies include freshly made limoncello, pesto, pastries, seafood, and of course, pasta.
Have a Beach Day
If the weather is nice and you are craving a relaxing day of swimming and sun tanning, Sorrento has several beach options for every type of traveller. The most unique is the Bagni Regina Giovanna, AKA Queen Giovaana Bath. This turquoise swimming hole is within walking distance of Sorrento and is also home to the ruins of a Roman villa.
Other public beaches include Marina Grande Beach and Puolo Beach. If you are looking for a private beach with upscale amenities, try Spiaggia La Marinella.
Hike Mount Vesuvius
Mount Vesuvius is located about 1 hour north of Sorrento and several tour companies will take you here for half or full-day adventures. The hiking trail is approximately 2.5 kilometres and takes around 45 minutes to complete. From the top of the trail, you can see the volcanic crater and striking views over the Bay of Naples.
Visit Pompeii
If you are making the trip to Mount Vesuvius, we would highly recommend stopping to see the city that it destroyed in 79AD, Pompeii. While a guide is not necessary for the Mount Vesuvius hike, you will get way more out of Pompeii with someone who can explain what you are seeing.
A popular option is to book a day trip that combines both of these destinations. This trip through Viator is highly rated with pick up and drop off in Sorrento.
For access to our entire 86-page Italy Travel Guide, click here!
Positano
Positano is one of the most mesmerizing and popular towns along the Amalfi Coast. The enchanting atmosphere is characterized by its narrow, winding streets where each step reveals breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Visitors can immerse themselves in Positano’s charming boutiques, art galleries, and seaside cafes.
Positano’s allure extends far beyond its stunning backdrop. Adventurous souls can embark on scenic hikes along the rugged coastal trails, while others may choose to take a boat tour and witness the town’s beauty from the sea. The culinary scene in Positano is fantastic, with endless seafood trattorias serving up fresh catches and cliffside restaurants offering panoramic views.
*By booking accommodation through our tailored maps + links, you support us at no additional cost to you. We appreciate you!*
Places to Eat
- La Zagara: We grabbed a pizza to go and a few cannolis from this restaurant on our way down to the beach! They also have a little terrace where you can sit down and order a number of Italian dishes.
- Lo Guarracino: Here you can savour regional pasta and fish dishes with wine and a coastal view.
Things to do
Explore the Town
Positano is known for its shop-lined streets and the sensational views from every angle. Spend some time perusing local vendors while you take in everything this one-of-a-kind town has to offer. Our favourite view in Positano is from Via Cristoforo Colombo, just in front of Ristorante Bruno.
Relax at the Beach
Positano Spiaggia Grande is the most famous beach along the Amalfi Coast, and for good reason! There is a public section where you can lounge for free if you bring your towel or several chair rentals available from different restaurants. We brought a box of pizza and a bottle of champagne down to the beach, laid out our towels and enjoyed the afternoon sun while admiring the coastline.
For access to our entire 86-page Italy Travel Guide, click here!
Praiano
Perched gracefully between Positano and Amalfi, Praiano offers a more tranquil and authentic escape for travellers seeking a serene coastal retreat. The town boasts a laid-back and intimate feel, with pastel-coloured houses clinging to the cliffs. Narrow alleyways lead visitors to discover historic churches, local shops, and family-run restaurants that embody the genuine spirit of Southern Italy.
Praiano distinguishes itself by providing a more relaxed alternative to the bustling environment in Positano or Amalfi. The town’s quieter atmosphere allows visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast without the crowds, offering a more immersive experience.
*By booking accommodation through our tailored maps + links, you support us at no additional cost to you. We appreciate you!*
Places to Eat
- Trattoria Da Armandino: Incredible oceanfront dining with a ton of fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and the best-ever pistachio cheesecake.
- Che Bontà: Really good pizza, fried fish, and cannolis!
- Saghir Ristorante Wine Bar: A hidden gem in Praiano. The owner, Saghir, does the cooking, waiting, and bartending himself. The food is to die for!
Things to do
Fiordo di Furore
This hidden beach is a must-stop if you have a motorcycle along the Amalfi Coast! Just a few minute’s drive from Praiano, you’ll get a prime view of this little lagoon from the Amalfi Highway bridge. We parked on the west side of the bridge and made our way down several steps built into the cliff. At the bottom, you can swim, explore along the rocks, or sit and enjoy the view.
The Path of the Gods
The Path of the Gods (AKA Sentiero degli Dei) is a clifftop trail above the Amalfi Coast. The main section of the hike is 6.5 kilometres and stretches between the small villages of Bomerano (in Agerola) and Nocelle (above Positano). Along the way, you can admire dazzling views of the sea and coastal towns. Both of these villages are located above sea level, so there isn’t a huge change in elevation between them.
To get to the trailhead, either take a taxi or a SITA bus from Praiano to Bomerano. You will also need to get transportation back to Praiano from Nocelle once you have finished.
For access to our entire 86-page Italy Travel Guide, click here!
Amalfi
Being the namesake for this entire coastline, the town of Amalfi captivates visitors with its rich history, charming architecture, and vibrant coastal atmosphere. With its iconic cathedral dominating the skyline, Amalfi boasts a blend of Moorish and Italian architectural influences. The main street cascades down the cliffs to the sea, full of shops, cafes, and hidden courtyards.
While Positano boasts enchanting luxury and Praiano offers a quieter retreat, Amalfi feels somewhere in the middle in the best way possible. It invites travellers to embrace the coastal lifestyle, with opportunities to take boat tours along the rugged shoreline or embark on scenic hikes in the surrounding hills. Amalfi’s central location makes it an ideal home base for exploring other nearby gems.
*By booking accommodation through our tailored maps + links, you support us at no additional cost to you. We appreciate you!*
Places to Eat
- Pizzeria Donna Stella: This was one of the best meals of our entire trip! Order the lemon ravioli and a pizza in the charming courtyard covered with lemon trees.
- Da Maria: Incredible Italian food with great service.
- Marina Grande: A bit pricey, but they serve a delicious 8-course tasting menu and you can’t beat the ocean views!
Things to do
Explore the Town
Amalfi is one of the most historic towns in the region. Along the water’s edge, there’s a beautiful promenade and a marina full of colourful boats. Plan a morning stroll around the town, see the cathedral, and then wander the shops. The Piazza del Duomo is a picturesque square dotted with sidewalk cafes and boutiques. Get a scoop of lemon gelato at one of the shops here and enjoy.
Spiaggia di Atrani
Spiaggia di Atrani AKA Atrani Beach is one of the most breathtaking places along the entire coast. Less known than other beaches in the area, it is dotted with colourful boats and offers a quintessential Amalfi Coast view.
To get here, you can either take a bus from Amalfi or walk 10 minutes through the pedestrian tunnel. We arrived for sunrise and had the entire place to ourselves. If you’re up for it, you will not regret the early morning wake-up call.
For access to our entire 86-page Italy Travel Guide, click here!
Ravello
Situated high above the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is a captivating hilltop town that enchants visitors with its serene beauty and panoramic views. The town’s charm lies in its quiet, local feel and well-preserved medieval architecture. We stayed here and LOVED it! We found it much more relaxing than other towns on the coast.
With that being said, prepare to walk a lot if you choose to stay in Ravello. You can either walk or take the public bus, a taxi, or a motorbike to get down to the coast. From its elevated position, Ravello offers mind-blowing views of the Amalfi Coast and the sunsets are remarkable. We would highly recommend the VRBO we stayed at, it even has a private pool!
Places to Eat
- Da Nonno Alfonso: Fantastic and inexpensive pizza.
- Ristorante Vittoria: Tasty Italian food with top-notch service. Reservations are recommended as they get very busy!
- Babel Wine Bar: A tiny cafe and art gallery with great food.
- Baffone Gelateria Artigianale: The best gelato we had on the Amalfi Coast.
- Osteria Ravello: A small, family-run restaurant with good food and a view!
Things to do
Enjoy the Views
One of our favourite things about Ravello was that it felt like our own little slice of paradise. It seems secluded in comparison to the rest of this coastline and is the perfect place to unwind for a few days. We spent our days walking to the local bakery to get bread, drinking coffee on our patio, and cooling off in our private pool when the sun came out. If you get the chance, stay at this awesome VRBO. It’s a bit pricey, but worth it!
Explore the Town
Ravello is well known on the coast for its laid-back, authentic atmosphere and medieval architecture. You could easily spend a day browsing shops and galleries, enjoying live music in the square, and popping in and out of little cafes.
Villa Cimbrone, the crown jewel of Ravello, and the accompanying Terrazzo dell’lnfinito (Terrace of Infinity) gardens showcase a breathtaking vantage point of the entire coast. The garden is filled with lovely plants and sculptures, making it a great place for a walk.
For access to our entire 86-page Italy Travel Guide, click here!
Maiori + Minori
Maiori and Minori, twin coastal gems, offer a delightful blend of history, culture, and seaside charm. Here, visitors can explore the narrow streets, sample traditional cuisine in family-run trattorias, or embark on a boat trip to discover hidden coves along the coastline.
Maiori, the larger of the two, has a lively waterfront with a large sandy beach. The town’s colourful seafront promenade is lined with restaurants and cafes, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors. In contrast, Minori exudes a more tranquil ambiance, characterized by its quaint fishing harbour and endless lemon groves.
Both towns, connected by a 400-step pathway, share a common thread in their historic roots. Maiori showcases the grandeur of the Amalfi Coast’s largest medieval tower while Minori boasts the archaeological ruins of a Roman villa.
*By booking accommodation through our tailored maps + links, you support us at no additional cost to you. We appreciate you!*
Places to Eat
- Cico’s RistoPub: Fantastic local food in Maiori, try the lemon pasta!
- Donna Maria Pizza: A hidden gem in Maiori serving inexpensive pizza and pasta.
- Pizzeria O’ Sarracino: A simple place in Minori with great pizza and local dishes.
- Ristorante Garum: Really tasty Italian food in Minori with excellent service.
Things to do
Sentiero dei Limoni
Sentiero dei Limoni AKA The Path of the Lemons is a scenic 2-kilometre walking path that connects Minori and Maiori. This picturesque trail winds through terraced lemon groves showcasing views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the coastal cliffs. It’s a terrific way to get between the villages if you are up for a bit of exercise. Along the way, hikers can stop in at local lemonade stands to quench their thirst for a classic Amalfi experience.
Wine Tasting
If you like wine, we would highly recommend Le Vigne di Raito. Located about 30 minutes from Maiori, you can get here via public bus or taxi. They offer a wine tasting and 4-course lunch on their remarkable terrace (by appointment only). There are a few other vineyards near Pucara, 15 minutes inland from Maiori.
For access to our entire 86-page Italy Travel Guide, click here!
We hope you enjoy your time in Italy. As always, feel free to contact us with any questions or comment below with your favourite stop on the Amalfi Coast. We would love to hear from you!
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
Self Guided Boat Tour in Capri, Italy: How to Save Money + Ditch The Crowds!
3 Days in Rome for Adventure Lovers: Avoid the Crowds & Keep Your Sanity!
Cinque Terre Itinerary: 3 Days in The Most Charming Place in Italy!
Tuscany Travel Guide: 10 Epic Stops for Adventure Lovers!
Venice in a Day: The Perfect Itinerary to Avoid the Crowds & Make the Most of Your Time!
14 Epic Things to do in the Dolomites This Summer!
8 Hikes in The Dolomites That Are Guaranteed to Blow Your Mind!
Leave a Reply