Amalfi Coast

Sunshine, clifftop towns, excellent food and a heritage site like no other in the world: this is the Amalfi Coast, one of Campania’s most famous destinations worldwide. Here towering cliffs meet the sea and conceal small bays and coves with beaches perfect for relaxation, whilst the towns boast high-end shops, artisan boutiques and outstanding restaurants.

The Amalfi Coast not only hosts internationally renowned destinations such as Positano and Amalfi, where many politicians and celebrities holiday, but also features charming small villages with an intimate atmosphere where time seems to have stood still, ideal for a relaxing and peaceful break. Thanks to its historical, artistic and architectural heritage, the Amalfi Coast has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From a romantic weekend getaway to a family holiday, from sports enthusiasts to those seeking a leisurely escape, the Amalfi Coast truly caters to everyone with its breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, world-class facilities and crystalline waters.

Where is the Amalfi Coast?

The Amalfi Coast is that stretch of Campanian coastline that extends south of the Sorrento Peninsula, overlooking the Gulf of Salerno. The Coast encompasses the following towns and villages: Amalfi, Atrani, Cava de’ Tirreni, Cetara, Conca dei Marini, Furore, Maiori, Minori, Positano, Praiano, Ravello, Sant’Egidio del Monte Albino, Scala, Tramonti and Vietri sul Mare.

Things to do on the Amalfi Coast

Known as the Divine, the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most beautiful stretches of coastline, with its towns connected by the scenic State Road 163. Strolling through the sun-drenched towns of the coast, where quaint fishing villages alternate with internationally renowned cities, is truly a unique experience.

From Amalfi, the heart of the coast perched dramatically above the sea, to Ravello, a picturesque town beloved by intellectuals and artists, every town along the entire coast is a true gem with historic centres to be explored on foot, wandering through lively streets.

Positano

Considered an exclusive and almost elite destination, Positano is a town that boasts breathtaking coastal views, excellent beaches and boutiques selling premium products. Like many other places along the coast, the town is built vertically, nestled into the rock face above the sea, with steep lanes and staircases connecting the lower section, where the beaches are located, with the upper part of town.

Among its narrow streets you’ll find shops, art galleries, artisan workshops and tailors who, thanks to their skills, are able to craft bespoke sandals and clothing that are truly unique. The beaches are also excellent, such as Marina Grande, the town’s main beach, and the small Arienzo beach, accessible only via a three-hundred-step staircase and therefore much quieter and more secluded.

Amalfi

Amalfi, the town that gives its name to the entire Amalfi Coast, is a destination with unique historical and architectural heritage. Its Cathedral dates back to the 9th century and is the undisputed symbol of the town, further enhanced by its beautiful bell tower dating from the 12th century and covered in majolica tiles.

The town is also famous for Charta Bambagina, a prestigious type of handmade paper used for prestigious publications, writing paper and important certificates. The tradition of handmade papermaking is ancient in Amalfi, and its history can be explored at the Museum of Paper.

Ravello

Less famous than other towns on the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is a town set inland from the coast on a hilltop approximately 365 metres above sea level. Becoming a destination for intellectuals and artists during the 19th century, the town is home to ancient villas with splendid gardens and terraces offering spectacular views over the Gulf.

Ravello is particularly famous worldwide for the “Ravello Festival“, a musical event held annually during the summer months and established in honour of composer Richard Wagner. Don’t miss a visit to the beautiful Villa Rufolo with its panoramic Soul Garden and the enchanting Villa Cimbrone, featuring the stunning Terrace of Infinity.

Vietri sul Mare

Known as the ”ceramics town”, Vietri sul Mare is home to a beautiful Cathedral with a dome dating from the 18th century and adorned with colourful majolica tiles in green, yellow and blue. The town centre features colourful houses, restaurants with panoramic views and shops selling ceramics and artisan products.

Its historic centre is set in a hilly area, whilst along the seafront you’ll find beautiful beaches, such as Marina di Albori, famous for its clear and crystalline waters, and Crestarella beach, from where you can observe the “Due Fratelli” (Two Brothers), the symbol of Vietri, which to many recall the Faraglioni rocks of Capri.

Atrani

Atrani is one of Italy’s smallest towns and a place that has managed to preserve its urban layout as a small fishing village over the centuries. The heart of the town is the famous ”Little Square”, renowned not only as the filming location for several films but also as home to the Church of San Salvatore de’ Birecto.

The Church of San Salvatore, built in the 10th century, was the site of the coronation of the Doges during the time of the Amalfi Republic. From the centre of Atrani, a series of narrow streets bordered by colourful houses lead up to the hilltop, from where you can enjoy a magnificent view across the entire Amalfi Coast.

Cetara

Known worldwide for anchovy production, Cetara is a small village perched on the rocks bathed by crystalline and clear waters.
Since Roman times, the town has always been dedicated to fishing and fish trading, so much so that its name derives from ”Cetari”, a term designating merchants of large fish.

Cetara is an ancient fishing village that has managed to preserve its traditions to this day, making it an ideal spot for a holiday devoted to relaxation, tranquillity and excellent food.

Path of the Gods

The Path of the Gods is a panoramic trail unique in the world that stretches for approximately 10 km from the town of Agerola to Positano. Located between the Lattari Mountains, the Path of the Gods is one of the most beautiful hiking routes thanks to the breathtaking views it offers.

The trail eventually splits into two paths, a ”higher” route and a ”lower” one, which rejoin shortly before reaching Positano. Both routes allow you to admire magnificent scenery over the Gulf; however, the higher path has greater elevation gain, whilst the lower path is more touristy and less demanding.

Emerald Grotto

The Emerald Grotto is a beautiful inlet of the coast located in the area of Conca dei Marini, approximately 5 km from Amalfi. The grotto, discovered in 1932 by fisherman Luigi Buonocore, features water the colour of emerald, from which it takes its name. As sunlight enters the grotto, it creates special light effects that make its waters truly marvellous.

Beaches of the Amalfi Coast

Small bays, secluded inlets and hidden coves are typical types of beaches found throughout the Amalfi Coast. Most beaches are covered with pebbles or shingle, though there are sandy beaches too. The water is crystal clear and occasionally a striking turquoise colour. Amalfi’s Main Beach is ideal for those who love the nightlife, bars and entertainment, whilst the Duoglio beach, around 1 km from town, attracts water sports enthusiasts who enjoy kayaking, windsurfing and diving.

The Maiori beach, on the other hand, is one of the few sandy beaches on the coast and stretches for approximately 1 km, hosting various equipped bathing establishments with facilities. Don’t forget Positano’s Marina Grande or Main Beach, the town’s principal beach and a favourite gathering place for those seeking the high life along the entire coast. Small boats depart from this beach to reach hidden bays and coves.

Arienzo beach, also in Positano, is a quieter and more secluded spot, as it requires climbing a 300-step staircase to reach it—though the effort rewards you with breathtaking views and glimpses of some of the coast’s most luxurious villas. In Vietri sul Mare, La Baia is a family-friendly beach with a sandy shoreline rather than shingle and several well-equipped bathing establishments. Finally, Vietri Marina beach, which was recently formed after the 1954 flood, features both free beach and equipped areas with crystal-clear waters.

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast boasts a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to intimate bed & breakfasts, holiday rentals and villas with swimming pools. Positano is one of the priciest areas along the coast and has the drawback of being built vertically with numerous staircases that can make reaching certain properties in the upper reaches of the town quite demanding. Particularly for families with children, the countless steps can prove genuinely challenging, so we’d recommend opting for accommodation in the lower part of town or in another coastal resort. That said, Positano is ideal for those who love the glamorous social scene and who gather at Spiaggia Grande for dinner or to enjoy one of the stunning seafront venues.

Amalfi sits at the very heart of the coast and is often chosen as a “base” for exploring other coastal destinations. From Amalfi, the main buses depart for other towns and ferries set sail for Capri. Precisely because of this, however, the town can become rather hectic during peak season and isn’t recommended for those seeking peace and quiet. The nearby town of Atrani, by contrast, is far less crowded, considerably more relaxed and offers breathtaking views.

Praiano isn’t far from Positano and Amalfi, and is a quieter resort often favoured by couples looking for a romantic getaway in accommodation with stunning views. For those seeking good value for money, staying in smaller towns such as Maiori or Minori is certainly worth considering. Maiori in particular makes an excellent choice for families with young children as it’s flatter than other coastal towns and therefore easier to navigate with a pushchair. The town also boasts a spacious beach and a lovely seafront promenade.

Alternatively, you could choose to stay in other towns across Campania such as Sorrento, Salerno or Naples, which are well connected to other Amalfi Coast locations by both road and sea, offer a wide selection of accommodation at often very competitive prices and allow you to visit Amalfi Coast towns on a day trip.

Getting to the Amalfi Coast

Many people choose to reach the Amalfi Coast by car from Naples, taking the A3 motorway and then the SS 163 road to reach Amalfi or other coastal towns.

For those wishing to travel by bus from Naples, you’ll need to reach Varco Immacolatella, the main bus terminus, where you can catch a SITA bus to Amalfi. Alternatively, buses depart from Naples airport and reach Sorrento in around ninety minutes. From Sorrento Station, you can then take a SITA bus that connects all the villages along the Amalfi Coast.

Naples Capodichino is the nearest airport to the Amalfi Coast but isn’t directly connected to the towns. From the airport, you’ll need to first reach Naples railway station where you can catch a train to Sorrento and then take a SITA bus to Amalfi. Alternatively, you can reach Salerno railway station, which also serves high-speed trains, and from there take a bus or ferry.

Finally, during the summer season it’s possible to reach the Amalfi Coast by sea to avoid getting stuck in traffic on the stunning Panoramic State Road 163. Ferries and hydrofoils depart from Naples’ Molo Beverello for Amalfi, whilst from Salerno, both from Piazza della Concordia and Molo Manfredi, ferries leave for Amalfi, Positano, Cetara, Maiori and Minori. Hydrofoils also depart from Sorrento, allowing you to reach Amalfi in just over an hour.