To say that the Amalfi Coast of Italy is beautiful is something of an understatement. It’s stunning, and it’s the kind of region that feels quintessentially Italian. If there’s a picture-postcard area of Italy that comes to mind, I guarantee it will be of places like the Amalfi Coast. It really is that beautiful. Not only that, there are heaps of the best things to do in the Amalfi Coast if you’re travelling around the region.
Those colourful village homes, staggered on terraced cliffs, fragrant lemon groves, delicious freshly made limoncello (which is from the region), and turquoise waters make the Amalfi Coast a dream spot. That being said, it can be tricky to really understand where to go, stay and which towns you should anchor yourself in during your trip to the Amalfi Coast. After all, the Amalfi Coast is a region, not just one place or town.
Also, it’s most likely you’ll arrive in the city of Naples when flying into the Amalfi Coast region. Naples itself is a city that’s as lively, bustling and busy as you can get; and you can easily tag on a trip to Naples, or even a visit to the nearby iconic island of Capri.
So, to make things easier, we’ve detailed all our favourite places on the Amalfi Coast that we know you’ll love. Take a look, below, at the very best things to do in the Amalfi Coast when you visit. Have an amazing time visiting Italy.
1.) Sorrento
Sorrento (Google Maps pin) is the starting point (or the end) of the Amalfi Coast (in my opinion). It’s a small city that’s perched on the northern coastline, facing the Gulf of Naples and is easily reached by taxi transfer from Naples or one of the fast ferries from Naples, direct to Sorrento itself. It takes around 40 minutes and is pretty easy, and these tickets can be booked with Alilauro.
Now, just so we don’t get our wires crossed, technically, the start (or end) of the Amalfi Coast is down at Punta Campanella. That being said, the main ‘big’ roads for driving around the Amalfi Coast tend to end at Sorrento. Yes, there are single-lane roads that then crisscross the wider Amalfi region, but these can be daunting, especially if you’re not used to winding and tight roads. If that sounds hellish to you, just book taxi transfers. We’ve always driven ourselves, but it really isn’t essential if you’re happy with taxi travel.
Once you arrive in Sorrento, make sure to visit Leonelli’s Beach for a little dip. Yes, it’s small, compact and busy in the summer months, but it’s a great place for a dip and to rent a sun lounger. For a tasty bite to eat by the sea, head to Soul & Fish. Their seafood risotto and grilled octopus are so tasty.
Talking of food, don’t forget to visit O’Parrucchiano La Favorita for a sunset dinner. I love this place for dinner, and it really feels so special. Plus, the venue is stunning. Just make sure to book your table in advance, as they fill up fast at peak times.
If you want to leave the confines of the city limits, you can head over to Bagni Regina Giovanna (Google Maps pin). It’s a sight where a historic Roman villa once stood, and there’s a gorgeous little natural inlet (to the sea) where you can take a dip, too. Also, make sure to see inside the Basilica Sant’Antonino (Google Maps pin).
If you’re walking here, be aware, it can take upwards of an hour. Take plenty of water with you (and snacks). Trust me, you will need it.
Looking for the best hotel to stay at in the Amalfi Coast? Make sure to book this room at the Bellevue Syrene hotel. They have a beautiful terrace, which is so idyllic at sunset, and these rooms are absolutely stunning. We loved this hotel – though rooms do fill up fast in the height of summer, so make sure to book this hotel in advance.
Alternatively, for the most iconic and truly timeless hotel on the Amalfi Coast, make sure to book Le Sirenuse Hotel. Honestly, there are no words for how beautiful this hotel is, and it’s often ranked as one of the world’s best places to stay. Just make sure to book this sea view suite in advance. They fill up very quickly at peak times.
Finally, don’t forget to book a full-day boat tour around the Amalfi Coast. We loved this one as it goes from Sorrento, exploring Amalfi and Positano. It’s incredible. Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Sorrento to the nearby island of Capri, which is perfect for a day trip.
Read more: Amazing places to visit in Italy
2.) Atrani
If you need a breather from all the busier towns and cities of the Amalfi Coast, then head over to beautiful Atrani (Google Maps pin). It’s one of the best places in the Amalfi Coast, and easily one of the most iconic towns in the Amalfi Region you’ll want to visit whilst you’re here.
Now, the great thing about Atrani is that it can also act as a base while you explore the southern shores here. Though don’t fret if that isn’t your plan, there’s heaps to do in Atrani if you just want to focus on the town itself.
Now, one of the most famous beaches to visit is that of Atrani Beach (Google Maps pin). Again, in the height of summer, it can get really busy, so if you want to hire a lounger or sunbed, then make sure to arrive in the early morning for a day at the beach.
For a yummy dinner, head to Le Arcate. Try and book a table, outside, for a sunset dinner as this place feels so special. Also, make sure to leave room for pudding! Their homemade tiramisu is so yummy. Alternatively, head over to Savo for some of their fresh catches of the day. Their sea bass was so good.
Also, don’t forget to explore the shoreside Church of Saint Mary (Google Maps pin).
For a shoreline hotel in the Amalfi Coast, make sure to book Anantara’s Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel. It’s in a gorgeous location, and their pool is right on the shorefront overlooking Atrani and the wider shores of the Amalfi Coast. We loved staying here so much, and honestly, the whole vibe is beautiful. It really is a special hotel in the Amalfi Coast.
Read more: Best things to see and do in Capri
3.) Positano
Due west of the town of Atrani, visiting Positano is easily one of the best things to do in the Amalfi Coast as you drive the coastal route around the region.
Now, for me, and lots of other people, Positano is the quintessential Amalfi Coast town with gorgeous views and delightful pastel-coloured houses. It’s beautiful, but that does mean it can get super popular in the summer months.
Of course, you’re going to spend some time on Positano’s beach (Google Maps pin). It’s gorgeous and another easy place to rent a sun lounger and chill out on the coastline. Just like most of the popular places in the Amalfi Coast, expect inflated prices and quite a few people. You’re not the only one who wants to visit!
Now, I always recommend trying to book all your dinners in the Amalfi Coast around sunset (and outside). For instance, in Postiano, I’d recommend booking a terrace table at Terrazza Celè. Their fresh fish was so yummy, and the service was amazing.
Word to the wise: be prepared to climb a lot of steps while you’re here in Positano. This is especially if you have plans to enjoy the beach and take in some pretty spectacular views from the top streets and belvederes. Always have water with you and wear comfy shoes… for the love of god, you will thank me on that point!
Fancy taking to the water? Then you need to book this boat trip from Positano. It’s a great way to explore the wider Amalfi Coastline without having the stress of booking transfers. Just be sure to book this boat trip in advance of your visit, as spaces fill up so fast at peak times.
Another great boat trip from Positano is this private boat trip to nearby Capri. It’s honestly idyllic and such a great way to experience the Amalfi Coast. Plus, you have your very own boat and skipper that’ll take you to some of the most iconic spots around Capri and the shores of the Amalfi Coast.
For the best hotel in Positano, make sure to stay at Hotel Villa Gabrisa. It’s right in the heart of the town and the perfect place to stay whilst in the area, as you can actually walk from this Positano hotel to many of the little restaurants and bars in the town itself. It’s all so easy.
Read more: Best things to see and do in Capri
4.) Amalfi
A trip to the Amalfi Coast is incomplete without a stopover at Amalfi. What was once an important trading centre for the Romans is now a beautiful coastal town that’s famed the world over.
Now, Amalfi is just up the coast from the town of Atrani, making it super easy to visit both places whilst staying in one of the towns. Once here, make sure to spend some time on the main beach in Amalfi. In truth, you can’t miss it!
Unlike some of the other towns in the Amalfi Coast, you can take your pick from a few key vendors that rent out sun loungers on the beach. We have a soft spot for Tonino’s Beach (Google Maps pin), which is still owned by the same family that started it, like three generations ago.
Not only that, Tonino’s can help organise kayak rentals, which is really lovely when there’s no wind. If the wind picks up, your arms will hurt! It can be tough in those conditions.
If lazing around isn’t quite what you’re looking for here (or indeed, once you’re done soaking up that sunshine), head over to the spectacular 11th-century Cathedral of Sant’Andrea or spend an afternoon at the Chiostro del Paradiso.
For dinner, stop off at Taverna Buonvicino. Yes, it’s away from the seafront, but this little place is so special and has been going for well over 100 years. Again, book a table in advance, just like most places in the Amalfi Coast.
Read more: Best things to see and do in Capri
5.) Fiordo di Furore
Just down the coast from Priano, visiting Fiordo di Furore (Google Maps pin) is one of the best things to do in the Amalfi Coast that has really picked up in popularity over the years.
The small cove of Fiordo di Furore is stunning and easily reached if you have a scooter or take the public bus. The bus stop is right on the bridge, making it an easy spot to reach, even if you’re not driving yourself.
To miss most of the crowds, visit on a weekday and steer clear of Saturday or Sunday. Oh, and be sure to take a picnic with you, a bottle of wine and plenty of water. There are no options for snacks once you arrive.
Read more: Best things to see and do in Capri
6.) Capri
Fine. Don’t come for me on this one. I know Capri isn’t the Amalfi Coast, but it’s right there and an island you really can’t miss when visiting the Amalfi Coast.
You see, you can easily visit the Island of Capri for a day trip from many of the towns on the Amalfi Coast. For instance, you can book this ferry ticket from Salerno to visit places like Capri, Amalfi and Positano. It’s the perfect way to cover plenty of ground, especially if you’re short on time when visiting the Amalfi Coast.
If you want a more elevated experience, book this private boat trip to Capri from the Amalfi Coast itself. Yes, it’s more expensive than the shared options, but it’s so worth it if you want a special experience in the region.
After arriving in Capri, make sure to spend some time visiting the town of Capri, heading higher to Anacapri and taking the chairlift to the viewpoint at the very highest point on the island. Oh, and don’t forget to see the Blue Grotto whilst on your boat ride over to Capri. We loved it.
Want to stay at the best hotel in Capri? Make sure to book this suite at Hotel Scalinatella. This sea view suite that we booked was just incredible and the perfect oasis after having a full day exploring Capri. Not only that, it’s stunning and one of the island’s prestigious 5-star hotels. You will love it.
Read more: Best things to see and do in Capri
7.) Ravello
The hilltop town of Ravello (Google Maps pin) is stunning to visit on the Amalfi Coast. It’s not too far from Tovere (San Pietro) and really easy to visit by scooter as you explore the wider Amalfi region.
Once here, mature to visit and see the fantastic views from the Terrace of Infinity (Google Maps pin). It’s a beautiful belvedere that overlooks the Amalfi Coast and is truly breathtaking. Oh, and be sure to book into or visit Villa Santa Maria – Luxury Suites. It’s a five-star suite property and one of the best places to stay in Ravello. The views from here are stunning, and it’s only a 5-minute drive into the centre of town. You will love this Amalfi Coast hotel.
For dinner, head to their iconic restaurant, Il Flauto di Pan. It’s Michelin-recommended, and the food is so tasty.
Afterwards, be sure to stroll around the area around the Duomo di Ravello (Google Maps pin). There is a small entry fee, but it’s so worth it to explore the town’s history. Finally, if you’re visiting Ravello during the summer months, you must attend the annual Ravello Music Festival at Villa Rufolo, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Then, for the best hotel in Ravello, you need to book Palazzo Confalone. This is one of the Amalfi Coast’s most iconic hotels, and it’s truly spectacular. The vibe, the architecture and these rooms are totally stunning, and it’s a hotel stay you won’t forget. Trust me.
Alternatively, for an extra special Amalfi Coast hotel, book this room at Caruso Hotel. It’s a Belmond Hotel in the Amalfi Coast and truly one of a kind. It’s the kind of hotel that totally leans into the culture and history of the region and is beautiful. Plus, its location is second to none! You will love this hotel so much and their bar, for sunset drinks is just divine.
8.) Praiano
Another quieter and more laid-back village on the Amalfi Coast is Praiano (Google Maps pin). This alone makes visiting one of the best things to do in the Amalfi Coast if you want a quieter time away from the hustle and bustle of Amalfi itself.
Once known for its silk production and for being a summer residence of the Amalfi dukes, Praiano is today a gorgeous resort town as well as a centre for the arts.
Today, you can pop inside the iconic Church of Saint Januarius,
Head to the rocky beach of La Gavitella (Google Maps pin), which is around 3 minutes away by scooter. From her, you can take in the amazing views from there. For a unique spot for drinks or dinner, head to Il Pirata. It’s within a cave-like setting, and they serve a tasty lobster that is so good.
Read more: Best things to do and see in Naples
9.) Minori
If you love pasta, you will love Minori.
Once filled with pasta-making factories, Minori (Google Maps pin), also called the City of Flavour. Today, Minori is a UNESCO site and a must-visit while on the Amalfi Coast. Now, you can easily pair a trip to Minori with Ravello, after all, they are right next to each other.
Something about its narrow alleys and old buildings, especially the 1st Century Roman Villa (Google Maps pin). Visits will take around 20 minutes, and it’s really easy to see if you’ve kind of had your fill of the Amalfi Coast beaches.
Talking of beaches, Minori has an exceptional little bay, with little clubs renting sun loungers, which is perfect to rent on a hot summer’s day.
But coming back to the pasta, the N’dunderi (dumplings made of ricotta) and Scialatielli (fresh pasta ribbons) are lip-smacking delicacies that you have to try here. For dessert, grab a Delizie Al Limone at the famous Pastry Sal De Riso (Google Maps pin). It’s a gorgeous area and the best things to do in the Amalfi Coast for food.
Read more: Best things to do and see in Naples
10.) Maiori
Right next to the town of Minori is Maiori (Google Maps pin). It’s really easy to visit Maiori as you travel the south coast of the Amalfi region.
You see, Maiori is a historic town with tons of character, so much so that Rossellini chose this town as the background for four of his films. Think ancient towers, old castles, and amazing churches filled with art.
Maiori is also where you will find the Amalfi Coast’s longest beach and some amazing seafood. Maiori Beach is certainly the main draw to visit this area of the Amalfi Coast, and you can easily spend a day there.
If you’re up for a spot of shopping, for souvenirs or otherwise, head to Corso Regina, the main street, which is full of fun, unique boutiques and stores.
Also, this whole area is known for its juicy and sweet lemons. After all, this is where limoncello is from. Make sure to book this amazing tour from Maiori, where you walk with your guide through the path of lemons. Not only that, you’ll get to try lots of tastings and even have some limoncello (which is so good).
Read more: Amazing places to visit in Italy
11.) Vietri sul Mare
Right next to Salerno, Vietri sul Mare (Google Maps pin) is a beautiful town that will make you feel like you’re in an open-air museum. It’s stunning and has been perfectly preserved in the same state for centuries.
With gorgeous handmade ceramics everywhere you look, charming colourful houses, a stunning seashore and a beautiful majolica domed church, Vietri sul Mare is one of those amazing little Italian towns that’ll make you pleased you decided to holiday in the Amalfi Coast.
Once here, make sure to spend some time at the beach, stop by the Church of Parrocchiale di San Giovanni Battista, and grab lunch at Ristorante 34 da Lucia (Google Maps pin). Their anchovies are so tasty, and they have a fresh catch of the day you can choose from. We had seabass.
Read more: Best things to do and see in Naples
12.) “Path of Gods”, Sentiero degli Dei
Inland from Praiano, more popularly known as the “Path of the Gods”, your journey to the Amalfi Coast is incomplete without experiencing this fantastic hike. Known for its spectacular (and we mean amazing) views, this hike starts at Agerola and ends at Positano.
It is not for the faint of heart, but it sure is worth it! The route will take around 8 km, and I would say it is moderately challenging. The thing that can be the worst for this hike is the heat. In the height of summer, the Italian sunshine can be intense.
To make things as easy as possible, book this amazing guided Path of Gods hiking tour. Not only will you have a qualified guide with you, but you will also be shown all the key spots of views and photos along the way.
We found this so helpful as it means you can focus on enjoying the region, without worrying about whether you’re following the correct route.
Read more: Amazing places to visit in Italy
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