Insider's Guide to the Amalfi Coast
Italy's most celebrated coastline delivers the perfect blend of cliffside villages, posh beach clubs, and superb sea views that make even seasoned travelers take notice.
The Amalfi Coast is Italy's most celebrated coastline, and for good reason. The cliffside villages, posh beach clubs and superb sea views deliver the kind of beauty that makes even seasoned travelers take notice.
Here, the Mediterranean sparkles below terraced lemon groves and pastel-hued towns, while restaurants dish up freshly caught seafood and locally crafted limoncello. The pace moves exactly as vacation should — unhurried and deliberate, with days measured in scenic boat rides, leisurely meals and epic sunsets.
While the steep terrain and sophisticated atmosphere make this region better suited for romantic getaways than family adventures with young children, that's precisely why it remains honeymoon territory par excellence.
Whether you're marking a milestone or just need to remember what luxury actually feels like, the Amalfi Coast delivers that rare blend of historic soul and timeless glamour that keeps it permanently on the travel A-list. Read on to discover where to stay, eat and what to do across the Amalfi Coast.
Need to Know
Essential Travel Information:
Currency & Payment
Euro (EUR). Credit cards accepted in most restaurants and shops, but cash is helpful for small purchases, taxis and local markets.
Language
Italian is official, but English is widely spoken. Greet locals with "buongiorno" or "ciao" — it goes a long way.
Transportation
Roads are narrow and winding. Parking is very limited, so renting a car is not advised. Use ferries between towns for quicker, scenic travel.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-October) for warm weather, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Visiting the Amalfi Coast is all about embracing a more relaxed pace. Keep noise to a minimum in residential areas and avoid playing loud music at the beach. During peak times, make dinner reservations in advance as popular restaurants fill up quickly. Meals are also meant to be savored, not rushed.
The region is generally safe, but it's always best to stay alert in busy tourist areas like Positano and Amalfi. Towns are also well-equipped with pharmacies and clinics, but it's smart to carry travel insurance.
Italy uses the 24-hour clock (e.g., 17:00 = 5 PM), and power outlets require type C or F plugs (230V, 50Hz), so bring an adapter if needed.
Getting There
Naples International Airport (NAP) is the closest major airport. Flights from major European hubs, plus seasonal US departures from NYC, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Atlanta.
New: Salerno Costa d'Amalfi Airport (QSR) offers seasonal European flights (fully operational 2026).
Ideal Stay
3 nights minimum for essential experiences (dining, iconic sites, sunset cruise).
5-7 nights optimal for a relaxed pace with day trips and deeper immersion.
Sorrento
Sorrento is the perfect place to stay for exploring the Amalfi Coast (plus Pompeii). It blends coastal charm with historic appeal and has a town center that's easily walkable with shops, cafes and views across the Bay of Naples. Sorrento is a popular home base for travelers who want easy access to day trips. Ferries in the Sorrento port can take you to Capri, Naples and towns along the Amalfi Coast.
Where to Stay
Parco dei Principi Sorrento
This elegant clifftop escape has views of the entire Bay of Naples. Mid-century modern and Italian design blend to create a unique atmosphere. Gardens, a private beach deck and infinity pool overlooking the sea elevate this beautiful seaside hotel.
Fora Reserve perks include a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Grand Hotel Capodimonte
A high-end hillside retreat with views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Multiple terraced pools, Mediterranean gardens and classic Italian design make it the perfect escape for couples, honeymooners or anyone seeking a romantic escape.
Hotel Bellevue Syrene
This former 18th-century villa turned cliffside hotel blends history and contemporary luxury. Private sea view terraces, a sunbathing deck by the sea and world-class dining make it an intimate, romantic choice just steps from Sorrento's historic center.
Positano
Positano is the iconic cliffside town most people think of when they hear the Amalfi Coast. Its dramatic landscape and romantic atmosphere make it picture perfect. Steep, winding streets are lined with artisan boutiques and cafes. Pastel buildings also house upscale dining and luxury hotels, adding to its appeal to honeymooners and couples.
Hotel Villa Franca Positano
This hilltop retreat overlooking Positano has incredible views, great service and privacy. Spacious rooms with modern design, a rooftop pool and restaurant with panoramic views make it a relaxing choice with easy access to the vibrant town.
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Le Sirenuse
An iconic, high-end escape defined by timeless elegance and breathtaking views. Once a private villa, this family-run hotel features hand-painted tile, antique furnishings and Michelin-starred cuisine for the ultimate Amalfi Coast experience.
Fora Perks include a $100 spa credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Amalfi
Amalfi blends history with a grounded feeling, making it a unique town on the Amalfi Coast. Centered around the Duomo di Sant'Andrea, the town features lively piazzas, local lemon products and a bustling harbor. It's a great choice for travelers who want a more central base in a larger town to then explore the smaller villages along the coast.
Ravello
Ravello is a peaceful and romantic escape above the coastline. Favored by artists and musicians, the town is known for its abundant gardens and historic villas. Ravello is ideal for those who appreciate scenic views and cultural experiences while being a bit more removed from the hustle-and-bustle of the seafront towns.
History and Culture
The Amalfi Coast has a rich, layered history that continues to add to its modern appeal. Once a powerful maritime republic in the 9th and 10th centuries, Amalfi was a key player in Mediterranean trade. They developed one of the first maritime codes, the Tabula Amalphitana, which influenced seafaring laws for centuries.
Remnants of this golden era can still be seen in the grand Cathedral of Sant'Andrea in Amalfi, which mixes Arab-Norman, Gothic and Baroque styles. Across the coast, historic watchtowers dot the cliffs, originally built to defend against pirate raids.
The region's deep Catholic roots are reflected in religious festivals, like the Festa di Sant'Andrea in Amalfi, where the patron saint is celebrated with processions and fireworks. In Ravello, the legacy of music and art lives on through the famous Ravello Festival, held each summer in the gardens of Villa Rufolo, once a gathering place for artists, composers and writers.
Cultural Celebrations & Events
Settimana della Cultura (April)
Week-long celebration showcasing the region's rich history with art exhibits, live music and tours of iconic landmarks.
Ravello Festival (July–August)
World-renowned festival featuring classical music and opera performances in the settings of Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.
La Festa di Sant'Andrea (June 27)
Amalfi comes alive with a parade, fireworks and celebrations honoring Saint Andrew, the town's beloved patron.
Luminaria di San Domenico (August 4)
Thousands of candles light up Positano's streets during this nighttime procession for San Domenico.
Activities & Experiences
The Amalfi Coast lives up to the hype. You can spend your mornings exploring ancient streets and churches, then hop on a boat to see the coast from a different angle, or just claim your spot on a beach and let the day slip by with a cold drink in hand.
Cultural Immersion
- • Join hands-on cooking classes in scenic hillside locations
- • Visit local distilleries for limoncello tastings
- • Browse contemporary art at La Caravella Art Gallery
- • Explore hand-painted ceramics in Vietri sul Mare
- • Wander boutique shops selling colorful bougainvillea and local crafts
Adventure & Nature
- • Hike the famous Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods)
- • Explore Valle delle Ferriere nature reserve with waterfalls
- • Take private boat tours to hidden coves and sea caves
- • Visit the peaceful gardens of Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo
- • Relax at beach clubs with seaside dining and sunbeds
Signature Dishes by Town
Sorrento
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina (baked gnocchi with tomato, mozzarella and basil), delizia al limone (lemon cake), spaghetti alle vongole (pasta with clams)
Positano
Scialatielli ai frutti di mare (pasta with seafood), torta caprese (chocolate almond cake), insalata di polpo (octopus salad)
Amalfi
Linguine al limone (creamy lemon pasta), totani e patate (squid with potatoes), delizia amalfitana (lemon sponge cake)
Ravello
Risotto al limone (lemon risotto with shrimp), parmigiana di melanzane (baked eggplant), ricotta e pere (pear ricotta cake)
Key Italian Phrases:
Ciao (hello/goodbye), buongiorno (good morning), buonasera (good evening), arrivederci (goodbye), scusi (excuse me), grazie (thank you), per favore (please), sì/no (yes/no)
Cruising the Amalfi Coast
Cruise lines love to visit the Amalfi Coast, but most mass market lines dock in Naples. They also typically only stay in the area for one day on larger itineraries out of Rome (Civitavecchia). For a real Amalfi Coast experience, you'll want to look to smaller ships.
SeaDream Yacht Club
This intimate yacht-style cruise line operates twin mega-yachts, SeaDream I and SeaDream II, each accommodating up to 112 guests. Because of their size, they're able to offer more immersive itineraries and call at Amalfi, Capri, Sorrento and Positano.
Silversea Cruises
An ultra-luxury expedition cruise line with larger ships that still feel intimate (some accommodate up to 728 passengers). Their itineraries in the area tend to call at Amalfi, Capri and Sorrento.
Some other small ship cruise lines that call at Amalfi Coast ports include Windstar Cruises, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Scenic Ocean Cruises and Explora Journeys.
Add-on Destinations
It's easy to combine a trip to the Amalfi Coast with a visit to another part of Italy. These nearby destinations offer a mix of culture, relaxation and coastal beauty. The best part is they're all either a short ferry, flight or train ride away.
Capri (30 min by ferry)
Glamorous island with soaring cliffs, designer shops and the famous Blue Grotto. Great for day trips or overnight stays.
Naples (1 hour by ferry)
Lively city rich in history, art and food — especially pizza. Gateway to Pompeii and ancient Rome.
Sicily (1 hour by flight)
Italy's largest island blending diverse cultural influences, historic ruins and dramatic landscapes like Mount Etna.
Florence (3-4 hours by train)
Renaissance city filled with museums, churches and art. Perfect for Italian history, architecture and fashion.
Rome (3-4 hours by train)
From the Colosseum to the Vatican, Rome offers ancient landmarks and buzzing street life.
Puglia (3-4 hours by car)
Sun-drenched region known for whitewashed towns, olive groves and pristine beaches.
If Not the Amalfi Coast...
These destinations offer similar coastlines, scenic towns and Mediterranean vibes if you're looking for a change of pace:
Porto Ercole, Italy
A quiet coastal escape with luxury stays and easy access to Tuscany's rugged shoreline. Much less crowded.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Colorful villages along the Ligurian coast combining hiking, seaside views and a more relaxed pace.
Santorini, Greece
Known for white-washed architecture and sunset views, delivering luxury, culture and Aegean scenery.
Corsica, France
Lesser-known gem with dramatic mountains, quiet beaches and French island culture.
Ready to Experience the Amalfi Coast?
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