General Information
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most breathtaking destinations, known for its dramatic cliffs, colorful seaside villages, and crystal-clear waters. Stretching along the Tyrrhenian Sea in southern Italy, this UNESCO-listed coastline is famous for its picturesque towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, as well as its delicious Italian cuisine, historic landmarks, and scenic hiking trails.
From luxury travelers to backpackers, the Amalfi Coast offers something for everyone, whether it’s exploring ancient ruins, cruising along the coast, or enjoying world-class seafood and limoncello.
Location
The Amalfi Coast is located in the Campania region of southern Italy, along the Sorrentine Peninsula. It stretches 50 km along the Tyrrhenian Sea, with Naples, Capri, and Pompeii nearby.
Nearby Destinations:
- Naples (60 km north): Home to pizza, historic sites, and vibrant culture.
- Capri (Boat Ride Away): A luxurious island with the Blue Grotto and scenic cliffs.
- Pompeii (30 km): The famous ancient Roman city buried by Mount Vesuvius.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Naples International Airport (NAP) is the nearest major airport.
- From Naples, take a train, ferry, or private transfer to the coast.
- By Train:
- Take a train to Salerno or Sorrento, then transfer by ferry or bus.
- High-speed trains connect Naples to Rome, Florence, and Milan.
- By Ferry:
- Ferries run from Naples, Capri, and Sorrento to Amalfi and Positano.
- By Car:
- Drive along the SS163 Amalfitana, one of the most scenic coastal roads in the world.
- Parking is limited, so renting a scooter or hiring a driver is recommended.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April – June): Ideal weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds.
- Summer (July – August): Peak season with hot weather and busy beaches.
- Autumn (September – October): Warm seas, fewer tourists, and harvest festivals.
- Winter (November – March): Quieter, but some hotels and restaurants close.
Key Festivals & Events
- Ravello Festival (July – September): Classical music concerts with sea views.
- Feast of St. Andrew (November 30): Celebrations in Amalfi honoring the town’s patron saint.
- Ferragosto (August 15): Italian summer holiday with beach parties and fireworks.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Le Sirenuse (Positano): A 5-star hotel with stunning sea views.
- Belmond Hotel Caruso (Ravello): Offers an infinity pool overlooking the coast.
- Mid-range:
- Hotel Santa Caterina (Amalfi): A cliffside retreat with Mediterranean charm.
- Hotel Poseidon (Positano): A boutique hotel with a panoramic terrace.
- Budget:
- Agerola B&Bs: Affordable stays in the hills above Amalfi.
- Ostello Beata Solitudo (Agerola): A great option for budget travelers and hikers.
Top Attractions
- Positano: A picturesque cliffside village with pastel-colored houses and boutique shops.
- Amalfi Cathedral: A stunning medieval church with Moorish and Byzantine influences.
- Ravello: A hilltop town with breathtaking gardens and historic villas.
- Path of the Gods: A famous hiking trail with panoramic views of the coast.
- Fiordo di Furore: A hidden natural fjord with turquoise waters.
- Villa Cimbrone & Villa Rufolo: Iconic gardens with jaw-dropping sea views in Ravello.
- Emerald Grotto: A magical cave with glowing green waters.
- Spiaggia di Fornillo: A more relaxed and quieter beach near Positano.
- Marina Grande Beach (Positano): One of the busiest yet most scenic beaches.
- Capri Day Trip: Explore the Blue Grotto, Faraglioni Rocks, and chic Piazzetta.
Getting Around
- Ferries: The best way to travel between Positano, Amalfi, and Salerno.
- Buses (SITA): Affordable but often crowded, especially in summer.
- Car or Scooter: Great for flexibility, but parking is difficult.
- Walking: Many towns are best explored on foot due to steep alleys.
Local Cuisine
Must-Try Dishes:
- Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare: Handmade pasta with fresh seafood.
- Delizia al Limone: A lemon sponge cake famous in Amalfi.
- Mozzarella di Bufala: The finest buffalo mozzarella from Campania.
- Limoncello: A sweet lemon liqueur made from local Amalfi lemons.
- Sfogliatella: A crispy, shell-shaped pastry filled with ricotta cream.
Top Restaurants:
- Da Vincenzo (Positano): A must for authentic seafood dishes.
- La Sponda (Positano): Michelin-starred dining with romantic candlelit views.
- Trattoria da Gemma (Amalfi): Famous for homemade pasta and seafood.
- Ristorante Pizzeria Da Salvatore (Ravello): Serves amazing pizza with a view.
Shopping in the Amalfi Coast
- Positano Fashion: Handmade leather sandals and linen clothing.
- Limoncello Shops: Buy authentic lemon liqueur straight from local producers.
- Ceramics from Vietri sul Mare: Hand-painted pottery with bright Mediterranean designs.
- Amalfi Paper (Cartiera Amatruda): Famous handmade paper products from Amalfi.
Nightlife on the Amalfi Coast
- Music on the Rocks (Positano): A club inside a seaside cave.
- Africana Famous Club (Praiano): One of the oldest nightclubs in Italy.
- Franco’s Bar (Positano): A stylish cocktail bar with sea views.
- L’Africana (Praiano): A historic club built inside a grotto.
Day Trips from the Amalfi Coast
- Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius: Explore the ancient ruins and hike to the volcano’s crater.
- Capri: Visit the Blue Grotto, Anacapri, and scenic cliffs.
- Naples: Enjoy the historic city, museums, and the birthplace of pizza.
- Sorrento: A charming coastal town known for lemons and beautiful views.
