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The Amalfi Coast is one of the world’s most spectacular and picturesque coastlines. With dazzling views, hillsides covered in vines, olives and lemon groves, and colourful buildings clinging to the ragged rock face, it has a beguiling beauty and old-school glamour that makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of authentic Italy. Whether you’re strolling through the charming streets of Positano or soaking in the panoramic views from the Path of the Gods, it’s a destination that you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with and want to return to again and again.
Get ready to be inspired for your next Italy multi centre holiday as we share with you our carefully curated list of the top 10 things to see and do on the Amalfi Coast. From exploring charming towns and villages to indulging in delicious local cuisine, we’ve whittled down the very best that the Amalfi Coast has to offer.
1) Fall in love with Picturesque Positano
Positano, a jewel of the Amalfi Coast, is a picturesque and enchanting village perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. As you approach the village, get your camera ready, as the views of the glittering sea and rugged coastline will take your breath away. The village itself is a sensory delight, with the scent of lemon trees and bougainvillea filling the air. You’ll love exploring the charming cobblestone streets lined with pastel-coloured houses and small boutiques, selling local handmade goods, floaty beach dresses, leather sandals and lemon scented soaps vying for your attention.
After exhausting yourself climbing more steps than you can imagine, indulge in a long lunch at a local trattoria, dishing up local seafood. The food will be exquisite and the views sublime.
In the heart of Positano is Spiaggia Grande, a crescent-shaped stretch of golden sand with azure waters that are perfect for swimming and water sports, with the picture postcard backdrop of its rugged coastline.
A highlight of any visit to Positano is the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, a beautiful church with a stunning Byzantine-style icon of the Virgin Mary. The church is a true masterpiece of Italian architecture and art, and its ornate interior and breath-taking views of the sea is captivating.
2) Find Hilltop Serenity in Ravello
Nestled on the top of a hill, the town of Ravello is serenely peaceful with an air of restrained glamour. It’s famous for its stunning gardens and spectacular views of the sea.
Wander around the mostly traffic-free streets and make your way to Villa Rufulo, an 11th-century villa perched like an eagles’ nest above the sea with stunning architecture, beautiful cascading gardens and a magnificent panoramic view of the sea. Villa Cimbrone is also another beautiful villa that offers stunning views of the coast and inspiring gardens. Another top attraction in Ravello is the Duomo, with its orange mosaics and serene interior. If you’re visiting in the summer months, try to catch a performance at the famous Ravello music festival which is a celebration of classical music and draws in music lovers from all over the world. The festival takes place in several locations throughout Ravello and features a range of performances, from solo recitals to full orchestral concerts.
3) Walk the Path of the Gods
The Path of the Gods, or ‘Il Sentiero degli Dei’, is one of the most scenic walks in Italy and is considered the best way to take in the Amalfi Coast’s stunning panoramic views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, picturesque villages, and dramatic cliffs. The trail starts in Bomerano, a small town near Amalfi, and ends in Nocelle, a village just above Positano. It’s approximately 7.8 km long and takes around 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your pace, but it’s well-marked and relatively easy, making it accessible to most levels. (But remember to wear comfy shoes and take lots of water!)
One of the highlights of the walk is the view from the top of the trail, where you’ll see the entire Amalfi Coast stretching out in front of you, with its rugged coastline and colourful villages nestled in the hills.
Along the way, there are lots of opportunities to stop and rest, with benches and shaded areas available. The trail also passes through several small villages, where you can stop for a quick pitstop and soak up the local atmosphere.
4) Live the Celebrity Lifestyle in Capri
Nestled in the deep blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the island of Capri is chic and sophisticated, with high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and luxurious hotels. From the stylish cafes that line the Piazzetta to the fashionable shops that dot the island, Capri exudes a certain elegance and refinement that is hard to find elsewhere. The island has a long history of attracting the rich and famous, with its exclusive yacht clubs, luxury villas, and private beaches. But beyond its glamorous facade, Capri also boasts a deep cultural heritage, from the Roman ruins that dot the island to the art galleries and museums that showcase the works of local artists.
One of the most iconic attractions on the island is The Blue Grotto, or Grotta Azzurra, a sea cave with crystal-clear blue waters which is accessible only by boat. This magical sea cave is known for its mesmerizing blue waters, which are illuminated by a unique natural phenomenon which is created by the reflection of the sunlight on the cave’s limestone walls. The cave is open to visitors from April to October, and although it can be busy during peak season, it is well worth visiting.
Whether you’re strolling through the streets of Capri Town, lounging on a sun-kissed beach, or sipping a cocktail at a stylish bar, you’ll be immersed in the island’s unique blend of refinement and charm.
5) Find Peace in Praiano
Praiano is often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours but offers an authentic taste of Italian life and some truly beautiful scenery. It’s much quieter and more relaxed than the larger towns of Positano and Amalfi, but offers beautiful churches, fantastic views, and some very good restaurants.
Its idyllic beach, La Praia, is nestled in a sheltered cove and boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs that create a sense of seclusion and tranquillity, making it the perfect spot for a lazy afternoon in the sun.
6) Discover Authentic Charm in Atrani
One of the smallest villages on the Amalfi coast, Atrani is a low-key, yet picture-perfect fishing village located just a few minutes from the larger town of Amalfi.
Known for its ancient streets and religious landmarks, its hillside location features traditional white houses, lemon gardens, and shaded narrow streets that have remained unchanged for centuries. Atrani’s ancient churches include the Collegiate Santa Maria Maddalena which offers beautiful frescoes, religious artworks, and a panoramic view of the coast. After exploring the village’s many attractions, relax on the Spiaggia di Atrani beach or grab a drink in one of the cafes lining the village’s square and main hub, Piazzetta Umberto I.
7) Explore the Awe-inspiring Architecture in Amalfi Town
Just a short walk from Atrani, Amalfi is the largest and most central town in the Amalfi Coast and is where the coast gets its name. With a history dating back to the 9th century, the town boasts a plethora of fascinating attractions including the central piazza, Piazza del Duomo, where the magnificent 9th-century Amalfi Cathedral takes centre stage, with its striking Norman-Arab architecture and large bronze door that depicts scenes from the life of Saint Andrew, as well as a bell tower that provides a panoramic view of the town and the sea. Top tip: if you’re superstitious, legend has it that you should never walk hand in hand with your partner up the stairs leading to the temple inside the cathedral, as it is believed if you do, your relationship will not last!
The town is also a shopper’s paradise, with its narrow alleys and winding streets filled with charming boutiques, artisanal shops, and local markets selling everything from handmade ceramics to delicious limoncello liqueur.
8) Be Enchanted by the Emerald Grotto
The Emerald Grotto, also known as the Grotta dello Smeraldo, is a natural sea cave located between Amalfi and Praiano. The cave is accessible by boat, and visitors can take a guided tour to see its magnificent emerald-green waters and stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is named after the colour of the water, which is caused by the reflection of sunlight on the underwater rocks and is a wonderful experience and a must-do while you’re visiting the Amalfi Coast.
9) Experience Pompeii’s Preserved Past
If you’re visiting the Amalfi Coast, a trip to Pompeii is an absolute must-see, even if it’s technically not on the Amalfi Coast itself. Just an hour up the road, this city frozen in time was famously destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD. The fast-falling ash preserved Pompeii just as it was, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past.
The site is vast, so it’s wise to prioritise the parts you want to see. Particular highlights are: The Forum, which houses several important buildings such as the Temple of Jupiter, the Basilica, and the Comitium. Also, the Amphitheatre, the House of Vettii with its beautiful mosaics, and The Baths are fascinating to wander round and offer an intriguing insight into the daily lives of ancient Pompeiians. Pompeii can get quite busy, so arriving early in the morning or later in the day is a good idea to avoid crowds. Whether or not you’re a history buff, Pompeii is a fascinating and visually stunning destination and offers something you will not experience anywhere else in the world.
10) Savour the Sumptuous Seafood and Luscious Lemons
The Amalfi Coast’s popularity as a holiday spot is largely due to its timeless appeal and unrivalled beauty – but another huge draw is the local cuisine, which is highly rated by the Italians themselves who regularly holiday in this region. The locals take great care and have lots of respect for their ingredients and whether you’re spending 6 euros or 60 euros, you’re guaranteed authentic, delicious food. The Amalfi Coast is particularly known for its fresh seafood, lemons, and olive oil. Some must-try dishes include spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), risotto al limone (lemon risotto), and pizza al metro (pizza by the metre). Meat lovers will enjoy the grilled meats and local specialities such as the prosciutto di Amalfi, a cured ham made from locally raised pigs. When it comes to drinks, the region is home to several vineyards that produce excellent wines using the local grape, including local white wines such as Fiano di Avellino and Greco di Tufo. The lemons of the Amalfi Coast are larger and sweeter than other varieties and are used in everything from refreshing lemon granitas to the famous Limoncello liqueur – a perfect way to end a meal.
The Amalfi Coast is a destination that offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, culture, history, glamour, and an undeniably Italian flair. With its stunning views, picturesque towns, and charming local culture, it is no wonder that the Amalfi Coast has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy.
If you’re feeling inspired to discover the magic of the Amalfi Coast and want to craft the perfect itinerary for your Amalfi Coast getaway, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team of travel experts. Otherwise, there’s 3 of our popular itineraries below that base you in Sorrento, which is an ideal base to explore the area. We’d love to help you plan your dream holiday and ensure that every detail is taken care of.
