Tips for a Trip to the Amalfi Coast

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Advisor - Patricia Caruso
Curated By

Patricia Caruso

  • Beaches

  • Boutique Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Amalfi Coast

  • Coastal

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

A scenic coastal town with multicolored buildings nestled on a hillside, overlooking a blue sea and beach area under a partly cloudy sky.
Curator’s statement

The Amalfi Coast embodies the essence of Italy’s beauty, blending dramatic landscapes with rich cultural heritage. What makes the Amalfi Coast truly special is its unique combination of towering cliffs, vibrant coastal villages and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Each town, from the glamorous Positano to the historic Amalfi, offers something distinct, with winding streets, pastel-colored buildings and incredible views around every corner. The area’s natural beauty is matched by its cultural richness: historic churches, charming piazzas and centuries-old vineyards provide a sense of timelessness. The region’s cuisine, heavily influenced by fresh, local ingredients like lemons, seafood and olive oil, adds to its irresistible allure. Combined with the warmth of the local people, it’s easy to see why the Amalfi Coast is so beloved by travelers seeking the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and Italian charm.

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Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast

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Things to do on the Amalfi Coast

A pebble beach leads to a calm sea, with colorful umbrellas and a cliffside town in the background under a clear blue sky.
  • Base yourself in Sorrento: Sorrento is the ideal home base for exploring the Amalfi Coast due to its convenient location, charm and accessibility. Perched on cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, Sorrento offers easy access to iconic destinations like Positano, Amalfi and Ravello, all just a short ferry ride away. Its relaxed atmosphere, stunning views and vibrant town center provide a peaceful retreat after day trips along the coast. Plus, with a great selection of restaurants, shops and charming streets to explore, Sorrento gives you the perfect blend of coastal beauty and Italian charm.

  • Spend a day at sea: A day at sea is the perfect way to experience the Amalfi Coast’s beauty from a unique perspective. Cruising along the coastline, you’ll get breathtaking views of cliffside towns like Positano and Amalfi, hidden coves and dramatic rock formations. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming or snorkeling, offering a refreshing break from the summer heat. Plus, exploring by boat lets you access secluded beaches and quiet spots that are often missed on land-based tours. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, a day at sea is an unforgettable way to soak in the magic of the Amalfi Coast!

  • Take a break with a hike: The Path of the Gods is a stunning hiking trail along Italy’s Amalfi Coast, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, cliffs and small villages nestled in the hills. Starting in Bomerano and ending in Nocelle, it provides a mix of rocky terrain and lush landscapes, making it a favorite for nature lovers and adventurers.

  • The Path of the Lemons: In contrast, this is a more gentle, scenic walk connecting the towns of Maiori and Minori. It weaves through terraced lemon groves, showcasing the region’s famous citrus, and offers panoramic views of the coast, perfect for a more relaxed and aromatic journey. Both paths immerse visitors in the natural beauty of Italy, but each offers a different kind of experience—one dramatic and awe-inspiring, the other serene and fragrant.

  • Explore local flavors: Exploring the local flavors of the Amalfi Coast is a journey through the region’s rich culinary heritage. This sun-soaked coastline is known for its fresh, vibrant ingredients, from juicy lemons that inspire the iconic limoncello to freshly caught seafood, like branzino and anchovies. You’ll find handmade pastas, often paired with fragrant basil and ripe tomatoes, bringing out the Mediterranean essence in every bite. Visiting local markets and trattorias allows you to savor artisanal cheeses, like fior di latte and mozzarella di buffala, and indulge in pastries such as the famous sfogliatella and delizia di limona, making each meal a true celebration of the region’s bounty.

  • Spend a day at a beach club: Booking beach clubs on the Amalfi Coast is a fantastic way to experience the region’s stunning coastal beauty in style. These exclusive clubs offer private access to crystal-clear waters, sunbeds and umbrellas on pebbled or sandy beaches, often nestled between dramatic cliffs. To secure a prime spot, it’s best to book in advance, especially during the busy summer months. Many beach clubs, like those in Positano, Amalfi and Ravello, also provide excellent amenities, including restaurants serving fresh seafood and local specialties, creating the perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence by the sea.

Some other considerations for making the most of your time in Amalfi Coast:

  • Wake up early: Beat the crowds and catch breathtaking sunrises over the Mediterranean Sea.

  • Avoid driving: Limited parking and narrow roads make driving impossible, opt for water taxis, ferries, walking and local tours.

  • Plan ahead: Make sure to book your tours and excursions in advance to avoid scrambling for availabilities while you are there.

Places to eat & drink on the Amalfi Coast

A serene view of the sea from a terrace framed by green foliage and flowers under a clear sky.
  • Sorrento: Bagni Ai Delfini for dinner

  • Sorrento: O Parrucchiano for dinner

  • Sorrento: La Pergola for dinner

  • Sorrento: La Limonaia for dinner

  • Sorrento: Donna Sofia for dinner

  • Sorrento: Soul & Fish for dinner

  • Positano: Aldo's Cocktail Bar for drinks

  • Positano: Franco's Bar for drinks

  • Positano: La Tagliata for dinner & a cooking class

  • Amalfi: Lido Azzuro for dinner

  • Positano: La Ferdinando for lunch

Advisor - Patricia Caruso

Travel Advisor

Patricia Caruso

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This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to the Amalfi Coast. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, An Insider's Guide to Lisbon.