Updated 07/11/2024
The Amalfi Coast, located in southern Italy, is one of the most picturesque and charming destinations in the world. With its dramatic cliffs, colourful villages and turquoise waters, it’s a dream come true for travellers seeking beauty and relaxation. Here’s a guide to help you plan your visit to this stunning part of Italy.
Getting There and Around
The Amalfi Coast is well-connected and fairly easy to reach. Most travellers arrive via Naples, which is the closest major city. From Naples, you can take a train to Sorrento and then a bus or ferry to the various towns along the coast. Alternatively, you can hire a private car service for a more direct and comfortable journey.
Once on the coast, getting around can be an adventure. The narrow, winding roads offer stunning views but can be challenging to navigate, especially during peak tourist season. Buses are a convenient and affordable option for travelling between towns, while ferries provide a scenic way to hop from one coastal village to another. Renting a scooter is also a popular choice for those who want more flexibility and a bit of thrill.
Where to Stay
Choosing the right place to stay depends on your preferences and budget. TUI offer a range of packages to different parts of the Amalfi Coast. TUI Package Holidays to Amalfi Coast
Positano: Known for its vertical landscape of colourful houses cascading down to the sea, Positano is the quintessential Amalfi Coast destination. It offers luxury hotels, charming boutiques and a vibrant beach scene. Staying here puts you in the heart of the action.
Conca D’Oro Hotel: Cosy and charming, Conca D’Oro serves up classic Italian hospitality with a side of panoramic vistas. Expect sunshine, smiles and pasta that’ll make your nonna jealous! Conca D’Oro Hotel with TUI
Hotel Vittoria: A quaint, family-run hotel with vintage vibes and a prime location. It’s your Amalfi Coast home away from home—complete with lemon trees and homemade limoncello. Hotel Vittoria with TUI
Amalfi: The town of Amalfi gives the coast its name and offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning cathedral, lively piazza and a good selection of hotels and restaurants, Amalfi is a great base for exploring the coast.
Botanico San Lazzaro: Perched high above the sea, this boutique gem offers stunning views, lush gardens and a cliffside pool. It’s so romantic, you’ll forget how many stairs you climbed! Botanico San Lazzaro with TUI
Hotel Belvedere: With jaw-dropping views and a pool that feels like it’s floating on the edge of the world, Hotel Belvedere is where sunsets and spritzes go hand-in-hand. Hotel Belvedere with TUI
Ravello: Perched high above the coast, Ravello is known for its stunning gardens and breathtaking views. It’s a quieter destination, perfect for those seeking tranquillity.
Hotel Bonadies: Steeped in history, Hotel Bonadies combines old-world charm with stunning coastal views. The rooftop terrace is ideal for sipping wine and feeling like an Italian aristocrat. Hotel Bonadies with TUI
Must-See Attractions
Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei): This famous hiking trail offers some of the most spectacular views on the coast. The trail runs from Bomerano to Nocelle, just above Positano, and provides breathtaking vistas of the coastline and the sea. It’s a moderately challenging hike but well worth the effort!
Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone (Ravello): These historic villas are known for their beautiful gardens and stunning views. Villa Rufolo’s gardens are particularly famous for their colourful flowers and panoramic terraces. Villa Cimbrone’s Terrace of Infinity is a must-see for its jaw-dropping views.
Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi): This stunning cathedral, with its striking facade and grand staircase, dominates the main square of Amalfi. Inside, you’ll find beautiful mosaics, a peaceful cloister, and the relics of Saint Andrew.
Fjord of Furore: This hidden gem is a narrow fjord with a small beach and a picturesque bridge overhead. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet swim and some unique photos.
The Amalfi Coast is dotted with beautiful beaches, each with its own charm:
Spiaggia Grande (Positano): This is one of the most popular and iconic beaches on the coast. With its stunning backdrop of colourful buildings and clear blue waters, it’s a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
Marina Grande (Amalfi): Located right in the heart of Amalfi, this beach offers easy access to the town’s amenities and beautiful views of the harbour and the town.
Arienzo Beach (Positano): Also known as the “Three Hundred Steps Beach,” this secluded spot is accessible via a long staircase. It’s a quieter alternative to Spiaggia Grande and offers clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere.
Day Trips and Activities
Boat Tours: Exploring the coast by boat is a must-do activity. Many tours offer stops for swimming and snorkelling, as well as visits to hidden coves and sea caves. A boat trip is also a great way to see the famous Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo) near Conca dei Marini. Amalfi Coast Boat Excursion on Viator
Cooking Classes: Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Amalfi Coast dishes. It’s a fun and delicious way to immerse yourself in the local culture and bring a taste of Italy home with you. Cooking Class with Authentic Chef Experience on Viator
Capri Day Cruise from the Amalfi Coast: Set sail from Positano and cruise to the enchanting island of Capri. Enjoy stunning coastal views, swim stops and explore Capri’s famous grottoes. This day on the sea captures the Amalfi Coast’s beauty and the magic of Capri in one unforgettable tour. Full Day Capri Island Cruise on Viator
Positano Sunset Tour: Experience the Amalfi Coast at golden hour with this magical sunset cruise. Drift along the coast as the sun sets, painting the cliffs and water in breathtaking hues. Sip a drink, take photos and enjoy an unforgettable view of Positano. Sunset Trip on Viator
Pompeii and Vesuvius Tour from Positano: Discover ancient history and volcanic landscapes with a day trip to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. Walk through Pompeii’s preserved ruins, then head up Vesuvius for panoramic views of Naples Bay. A perfect blend of history, adventure and scenery! Pompeii And Vesuvius on Viator
Practical Tips
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is from April to October, with May, June, and September being ideal for good weather and fewer crowds. July and August can be very busy and hot, so plan accordingly.
Language and Currency: Italian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The currency is the Euro (€), and credit cards are accepted in most places, though it’s a good idea to have some cash for small purchases.
Book in Advance: Especially during peak season, book your accommodation well in advance to secure the best options.
Stay Flexible: If possible, stay in different towns (e.g., Positano, Amalfi, Ravello) to experience the unique charm of each.
Plan Ahead: Make a list of must-see attractions like the Path of the Gods, Villa Rufolo, and the Blue Grotto. Book tickets in advance where possible.
The Amalfi Coast is a destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring charming villages, lounging on beautiful beaches, or savouring delicious Italian cuisine, every moment on this stunning coastline is filled with magic and wonder. Are you ready to uncover the timeless charm of the Amalfi Coast?
[…] After soaking up the beauty of Sorrento, it’s time to venture deeper into the Amalfi Coast. With its dramatic cliffs, picturesque towns and crystal-clear waters, this region is Italy at its most stunning. For more things to do and see, check out my Amalfi Coast Blog. […]