The Amalfi coast has been described as a dreamy destination that offers breathtaking views, charming little villages and delicious cuisine.
It is very recognisable from many films that have used the stunning scenery, which include, Beat the Devil (1952), Avanti (1972) Letters to Juliet (2010) and Under the Tuscan Sun (2003)
Listed as a World Heritage Site in 1997 the coast is named after the tow of Amalfi and has been attracting travellers since the 18th Century due to the warm summer and mild winters. The Amalfi Drive is 25 miles long and crosses 13 Municipalities many of which are reliant on tourism because of the landscape.
Driving along the Amalfi Coast is an exhilarating and adventurous way to see the stunning scenery and explore the charming towns. Renting a car from Naples or Sorrento and follow the coastal road that winds along the cliffs and offers panoramic views of the sea. However, driving on the Amalfi Coast can also be challenging and very stressful.
Taking the bus is a cheap and convenient way to get around the Amalfi Coast, as the buses connect all the main towns and run frequently. The buses offer great views of the coast from their windows, but they can also be crowded and uncomfortable, especially in the summer.
Taking the ferry is a relaxing and scenic way to see the Amalfi Coast, as you can enjoy the breeze and the views of the coast and the islands from the water. You can take the ferry from Naples, Sorrento, Salerno, or Capri, and hop on and off at different towns along the coast. Be aware they do not run all year round, and dependant on the weather and the sea conditions.
Taking a small boat tour is a fun and exciting way to see the Amalfi Coast, as you can explore the hidden coves, caves, and beaches that are not accessible by land. You can rent a small boat with or without a skipper, or join a group tour with a guide. You also need to check the weather and the sea conditions before you go.
Taking a private boat is a luxurious and exclusive way to see the Amalfi Coast, as you can have a personalized and comfortable experience with a professional crew. You can choose from different types of boats, such as yachts, sailboats, or catamarans, and enjoy the amenities and services on board. A private boat allows you to have the ultimate privacy and flexibility, and to access the most secluded and beautiful spots on the coast.
Taking a tour is a convenient and hassle-free way to see the Amalfi Coast, as you can have a professional guide and driver who will take care of everything for you. popular and iconic attractions. However, a tour can also be limiting and impersonal, as you have to follow a fixed schedule and itinerary, and share your time and space with other tourists.
Things to do that are free along the Amalfi coast
Hike the Path of the Gods: This is one of the most popular and beautiful hikes offering breath-taking views of the sea and the mountains. The trail connects the village of Bomerano in Agerola to the village of Nocelle in Positano, and it is about 8 km long. It is classified as easy, but it can be challenging in some parts, The best time to hike is in spring or autumn, when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer.
Relax at Marina di Tordigliano. This is a secluded and natural beach, located between Positano and Praiano. It is not easy to access, as you have to walk down a steep path for about 20 minutes, but it is worth it if you want to enjoy some peace and quiet. The beach is mostly pebbly, but there are some sandy spots as well. There are no facilities or services, so bring your own umbrella, towel, and food.
Relax at Fiordo di Furore an inlet surrounded by steep cliffs connected by an arched bridge. The beach is pebbly and natural, and the water is clear and calm. It is a hidden gem and reached from the village of Furore with a hike down the path to the beach or can be reached by boat from nearby towns of Positano or Amalfi.
If you want to see the most famous and picturesque town on the Amalfi Coast, you should visit Positano. This is the town that you often see on postcards and Instagram, with its colourful houses clinging to the cliffs, its narrow streets filled with shops and cafes, and its stunning beach. Positano is also a great base for exploring other nearby towns, such as Praiano, Furore, and Conca dei Marini. However, Positano is also the most expensive and crowded town on the coast,
If you want to see the historical and cultural centre of the Amalfi Coast, you should visit Amalfi itself. This is the town that gave its name to the coast and has a rich heritage that you can admire in its monuments, such as the Duomo, the Cloister of Paradise, and the Paper Museum. Amalfi is also a good place to enjoy the local cuisine, especially the seafood and the famous lemon desserts. It is a busy and lively town, with a large port and a main square that is always full of people.
The Duomo is the main attraction of the town and one of the most impressive churches on the coast. It dates back to the 9th century, and a mix of styles, from Romanesque to Baroque. The exterior is decorated with a striped facade, a bell tower, and a bronze door. The interior is richly adorned with frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures.
The most romantic and elegant town along the coast is Ravello. It has inspired many artists, writers, and musicians as is quiet and refined. Ravello is perched on a hilltop above Amalfi, and it offers spectacular views of the coast and the sea. It is also famous for its beautiful gardens, such as Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, where you can admire the flowers and the fountains.
These are just some of the villages to visit on the Amalfi Coast, but there are many more to discover such as Atrani, Maiori, Minori, Cetara, Vietri sul Mare, Scala, Praiano, Tramonti, and Furore. Not forgetting Capri and Ischia the islands off the coast as well!
This is a small synopsis of what to do along this beautiful coastline and don’t forget the food, aperitivo time and of course people watching!