Holiday on the Amalfi Coast: how to make the most of your stay

Nestled in the Campania region and classified as a world heritage site, the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy's gems. This stretch of the Italian coast presents a unique art of living, sublime architecture, ancient ruins and impressive castles, enchanting towns, majestic mountains and mysterious caves. So many wonders to be found; to discover and explore, making it an ideal Italian holiday spot.

 

When to go to the Amalfi Coast?

The Amalfi Coast benefits from the famously mild Mediterranean climate. With the maximum temperature averaging 21°C throughout the year the weather remains pleasant throughout the seasons. That said, the months from April to September offer warm weather and vibrant atmospheres. Spring, especially from April to June, is a magical time when nature awakens with colourful blooms peppering the landscape, and tourist crowds are relatively sparse compared to the peak summer months, making it an ideal period for exploration without the hustle. Summer, from July to September, marks the vibrant high season, visitors flock to the coast to bask in the Mediterranean sun, swim in the crystalline waters, and partake in various water activities. Autumn, particularly in October, offers a quieter atmosphere with pleasant weather that is still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities, and the crowds diminish somewhat, making it an excellent time for those seeking a more serene experience while exploring the coastline and its attractions.

In essence, the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast depends on individual preferences, whether it's enjoying quieter moments amidst the blossoming spring, embracing the lively summer ambiance, or relishing a peaceful autumnal retreat.

 

How to get to and get around the Amalfi Coast

The primary gateway to the stunning Amalfi Coast is Naples International Airport, where visitors can seamlessly transit to the coast. From Naples, a popular choice is taking a scenic drive along the coast, offering breathtaking views. Alternatively, regular buses and private transfer services connect the airport to towns along the coastline. Train services from Naples to Sorrento are available, followed by a short ferry ride to reach certain coastal destinations. Moreover, private car hires or taxis provide flexibility and convenience, enabling travellers to navigate the region at their pace.

• A road trip in Italy

In bygone days, the Amalfi Coast's splendid secluded villages were accessible solely by sea. Now, you may embark on an epic road trip along this breathtaking Italian coastline, to unveil all of these landscapes, from Salerno to Sant’Agata. And rent a classic car to really add some luxury and style to your holiday, it doesn't get much better than pulling up to your clifftop boutique hotel, in your vintage convertible Fiat or Alpha Romeo!

• Bus trips

One of the easily accessible means of transport is the bus. SITA Blue Line Buses runs routes several times a day between Sorrento and Amalfi or Salerno. If you want to contemplate the sea depths, we advise you to sit next to the sea (left side of the vehicle if you are leaving from Sorrento). Once at Amalfi, other buses will take you to Ravello or Salerno. The bus is an ideal option if you want to take in the scenery and see the different sites without worrying about driving.

• Scooter, an Italian adventure 

Embrace the true Dolce Vita atop a Vespa, your hair dancing in the wind, capturing the essence of freedom. Can you hear that sweet melody of liberation? The air here is filled with the promise of Italian vacation and adventure. Explore unparalleled landscapes, each moment worthy of a photograph to immortalize its beauty. The Vespa offers not just freedom but practicality, easily manoeuvring through traffic and effortlessly parking at scenic stops. Discover guided tours from Naples, unveiling the magic of the Amalfi Coast as you've never seen before. Experience the thrill, capture the memories, and let the authentic Italian adventure begin!

 

Why visit the Amalfi Coast?

 

Enter the realm of ancient legends chronicled in Homer's Odyssey - the Amalfi Coast, Italy's precious gem. Nestled south of the Bay of Naples, its azure waters beckon for a refreshing dip, enchanting travellers with its timeless allure. Majestic mountains, charming villages, luxurious beaches, and vibrant buildings paint an irresistible picture. Renowned as Italy's most beautiful coastline, its panoramic vistas have captivated hearts globally.

Which are the most beautiful beaches on the Amalfi Coast?

Indulge in a sun-soaked haven of tranquillity and mastered idleness on the Amalfi Coast, where the Tyrrhenian Sea unfolds its splendid charm. With crystal-clear waters stretching as far as the eye can see, the coast boasts breathtaking seascapes that reveal a fabulous array of marine life. From the most coveted beaches to hidden intimate coves, nature's wonders abound, offering a perfect sanctuary for relaxation. These mostly pebble beaches invite leisurely moments, where time seems to stand still. For the adventurous, some secluded coves require a bit of exercise, accessible only by steps – an effort that promises unparalleled rewards. Here are some coveted addresses where you can abandon yourself for a day, immersing in the blissful embrace of nature's beauty:

• Arienzo Beach Club, at Positano. You will have to take 300 steps to reach this heavenly beach. A true haven of peace, this corner of paradise aspires to relaxation and tranquillity. At the end of the day, the sunset offers a unique spectacle. Via Arienzo, 16, 84017 Positano SA, Italy

• Il Fiordo di Furore, hidden gem from Praiano. This place is ideal for early morning swimmers, as the sun is present at the start of the day. Discover this narrow expanse of water at the bottom of a steep valley. Via Marina di Praia, 84010 Furore SA, Italy

• Spiaggia della Gavitella, treasure of the Amalfi Coast. In the heart of Praiano, you will enjoy an exceptional view of Positano, Capri and Li Galli. This cocoon of softness will delight you during a day of relaxation. Via Gavitella, 1, 84010 Praiano SA, Italy

• Marina Grande, main beach on the Amalfi Coast. Located at the end of Piazza Duomo, it borders the city centre. Parasols and deck chairs subtly colour the magnificent panorama. You will find it in the town of Amalfi. Viale della Regione, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy

• Marina Cantone, an oasis between land and sea. A former fishing village, this beach is located near the beach. the place where the Amalfi Coast and the Gulf of Sorrento meet. 80061, Marina del Cantone NA, Italy

What are the most beautiful spots on the Amalfi Coast?

Pack your bags with anticipation and essentials: binoculars, sturdy shoes, and a film camera, coupled with an insatiable thirst for discovery. From Praiano to Amalfi and Nocelle, the Amalfi Coast unfolds a tapestry of experiences waiting to be savoured and immortalized. World-renowned for its awe-inspiring vistas, the coast's lemon-yellow hues, vibrant oranges, lush greens, and azure blues form a picturesque postcard brought to life. Immerse in the treasures it offers: witness the sublime sunset in the charming labyrinthine streets of Praiano, leading to the magnificent Piazza San Gennaro with a view of Capri. Venture to La Cala Gavitella for a marvellous spectacle. Elevate your experience at Franco’s Bar, a luxurious open-air terrace in Positano, offering exquisite drinks against the backdrop of breathtaking coastal views. Prepare to capture memories that echo the splendour of this enchanting coastal haven.

Which are the must-see castles to visit the Amalfi Coast?

Immerse yourself in the rich historical tapestry of the Amalfi Coast, where every cobblestone tells a tale. Discover elegant castles and ancient relics, a testament to the region's profound heritage. Pompeii and Herculaneum's remnants offer a glimpse into the ancient past, while castles perched atop rocky promontories offer insight into more recent history, along with some breathtaking panoramas!

• Explore the Arechi Castle of Salerno, a prestigious 8th-century bastion commanding a majestic view 300 meters above sea level.
• Marvel at the Saint Mathieu Cathedral, an 11th-century marvel adorned with exquisite mosaics and paintings by Baroque master Francesco Solimena.
• Travel back in time with the medieval aqueduct of Salerno, a lush-covered relic from the 9th century supplying water to the San Benedetto monastery.

What are the best restaurants on the Amalfi Coast?

Indulge your senses in the culinary marvels of the Amalfi Coast, where every dish is a symphony of exquisite and vibrant flavours. The alluring scents wafting through the air are just a prelude to the seduction that follows on your palate. While exploring the picturesque streets of these sublime villages, you'll encounter a plethora of restaurants serving up traditional Neapolitan delights. From the tantalizing Ndunderi pasta to the zesty notes of Limoncello and the flavourful Calamari alla praiese, prepare for a festival of aromas that promises a taste adventure like no other. Raise a toast to this magnificent getaway as you savour these culinary delights. Here, we present some exceptional restaurants that will elevate your dining experience to new heights:

• Baglio Amalfi Italian Bistrò Cucina, Vino & Drinks: Since the beginning of 1971, this restaurant has been run by the same family. Traditional dishes and tasty cuisine will delight your palate. A glass of wine hand, admire the sublime panoramic view on a magnificent terrace. Via Giovanni Augustariccio, 82, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy, +39 368 527933

• Sensi Restaurant: Avant-garde cuisine created by the famous chef and interior designer Andrea Viacava. The chef invites you to a journey of the senses. Flavours and products pay homage to Italian cuisine, famous throughout the world. Via Pietro Comite, 4, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy - +39 089 871183

• Adamo ed Eva by Eden Roc: A true temple of taste. The menu is inspired by of local tradition, including organic ingredients grown in their own gardens. The scents of the Mediterranean delight your taste buds while the view of the sea is unique. Via Guglielmo Marconi 110, 84017, Positano Italy

• Melchiò: Live an experience like in another country. Almost suspended between sky and sea, the atmosphere of this restaurant aspires to serenity. Here, every guest feels at home. Italian meats, fresh local fish and homemade pastas will delight your senses. Via Santa Maria Vecchia, 5, 84010 Furore SA, Italy - +39 089 097 7744

• Bonta Del Capo: Love for cuisine, a trip to Italy, this is what defines this sumptuous restaurant. Enjoy a glass of wine in front of a unique landscape. The romantic setting aspires poetry. The typical aromas, combined with the passion of Salvatore Criscuolo invites you to embark on an unforgettable experience. Via I Maggio, 14, 84010 Conca dei Marini SA, Italy - +39 089 831515

• Da Ciccio Cielo Mare E Terra: Family restaurant, the dishes of Marco Cavaliere express a strong link with the Amalfi Coast. Seasonal dishes, the freshness of the fishing and traditional techniques pay homage to Italy. End your tasty meal in style with a refreshing Limoncello. Via Giovanni Augustariccio, 21, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy - +39 089 831265

Which villages are worth a visit on the Amalfi Coast?

• Sorrento
  Discover the enchanting allure of Sorrento, a picturesque port city located south of Naples, graced by fabulous landscapes that truly mesmerize. Perched on a cliff, this peaceful haven is a masterpiece, offering a breathtaking panorama of the sea, mountains, and wonders that unfold before your eyes. The majestic volcano overlooks the bay, creating a serene backdrop for tender moments of escape. Sorrento boasts famous Mediterranean vegetation and vibrant perched houses, promising a colourful getaway. At the port, visitors can savour a coffee on the terrace while boats serenade with a sweet melody. Experience the magic of sunrise behind Vesuvius in the morning and the golden rays embracing Capri in the evening. Lemon trees add divine yellow tones to the scenery, the very origins of the beloved Limoncello liqueur. Explore the heart of the city, where historical monuments like the Saint-François Monastery beckon to be explored on foot. Extend your adventure to Capri, easily accessible by boat. The journey of discovery continues!

• Ravello
  Escape the chaos and find tranquillity in Ravello, a must-visit gem on the Amalfi Coast. Perched above the sea, this village is a wonderland, where residents lovingly oversee the town from the Valley of Dragons. Charming houses dot the hillside, and narrow streets offer a mesmerizing view of the waves, inviting joyful exploration. Nature here gleams as brightly as the sun, with bougainvillea, palm trees, and umbrella pines painting the landscape in vivid hues and captivating scents. Stroll along streets lined with ancient palaces telling tales of time, and uncover the secrets of Villa Rufolo's splendid secret garden, where flowers perfume the air. Villa Cimbrone beckons with its timeless charm, a sanctuary of peace where tranquillity reigns supreme. Nestled in the heights, Ravello boasts one of Campania's most beautiful beaches, Spiaggia di Castiglione di Ravello, its golden cove lapped by crystal-clear waters, inviting you to dive into the azure heart. A city of music and poetry, Ravello, once the refuge of famed artists like Boccaccio, offers an inspiring journey that elevates your spirits to the clouds. Explore, dream, and discover the magic of Ravello.

• Positano
  The star of the Amalfi Coast, this is a village straight out of a legend, where charming houses in divine hues cling to majestic cliffs, and narrow streets wind their way to a gray sand beach. According to myth, it was founded by the God of the Sea in love with a nymph, making it a unique and enchanting destination that has captivated travellers since Roman times. Approaching by sea feels like entering paradise on earth, as vibrant red, sunny yellow, and hints of orange create a remarkable palette on the cliffside facades. Steep streets echo with poetry, while the scent of gelato fills the air, indulging visitors as they stroll hand in hand. The Santa Maria Assunta Church, with its iconic yellow majolica dome, stands proudly, and by the sea, vacationers relax to the tunes of Italian music, the waves gently caressing the magnificent beach. For adventurers, the divine "Path of the Gods," a hiking trail linking Nocelle to Bomberano, awaits exploration. A stopover in Positano is always a splendid idea – a truly unforgettable experience awaits.

• Amalfi
  The namesake and crown jewel of the Amalfi Coast, is Italy's cherished treasure. Nestled gracefully between the sea and towering cliffs, this picturesque village offers a breathtaking panorama where Mount Cerreto reigns over the bay. Situated in the scenic province of Salerno, Amalfi once stood as one of the nation's most influential ports and today continues to enchant with its authentic beauty. Visitors are captivated by hillside houses, historical landmarks, verdant landscapes, and a wealth of unique flavours. From the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Sant’Andrea to the serene Cloister of Paradise and the historic Torre dello Ziro, every corner of Amalfi invites exploration. Embark on an unforgettable journey through this marvel, where authenticity meets unparalleled charm.

 

Enjoy a wealth of activities all along the Amalfi Coast

What are the best diving spots?

For diving enthusiasts, the Amalfi Coast stands as the ultimate destination. Renowned for its pristine waters, the Tyrrhenian Sea offers an idyllic setting for both diving and snorkelling. Beneath the rocky beaches, the island's depths harbour a mesmerizing biodiversity—spectacular fish and vibrant algae create a canvas of vibrant hues in the deep blue sea. Dive into this marine adventure, where you can even catch sea urchins to cook with spaghetti, adding a delightful culinary twist to your experience. The Italian coast offers it all: from exploring shallows during boat excursions to delving into the depths with your snorkelling gear. We unveil the Coast's most exquisite diving spots just for you:

• Marina di Camerota, caves and corals delight diving enthusiasts.

• Positano, explore its depths and contemplate views far and wide.

• Palinuro, discover unique fauna and flora during a boat excursion.

• Capri, the Tiberius Leap and the Punta Carena Pylon offer a spectacle of a thousand colors.

• Sorrento, the ideal place for a snorkelling session. Swim in the bliss of its turquoise waters.

What are the most beautiful hikes on the Amalfi Coast?

Exceptional views. Majestic paths. Between lemon trees and marvellous hills, the Campania region offers very promising hikes. Explore the secret routes of this wonderful place. At the peak of happiness, explore its treasures and beauties. Corners of greenery, intimate coves, enhance the landscape. Between mountain and sea, the mountains rise above 1000m. In winter, it is sometimes possible to admire them with their coats of snow. So, don't forget your walking shoes and let yourself be carried away by the magic of these surrounding lands. Here are two recommended circuits:

• The Path of the Gods
  Breathe in, breathe out - the mountain air here is like a refreshing gulp of nature's purest essence. Embark on the Sentiero degli Dei, famously known as The Path of the Gods, a hiking trail winding through the magnificent Lattari Mountains, connecting the quaint villages of Agerola and Positano. This trail unveils landscapes straight from a dream. As you walk atop the cliffs, the coast sprawls below, revealing its hidden treasures. The panoramic view from this vantage point is nothing short of breathtaking, resembling a glimpse of paradise itself. Legend whispers that Greek gods traversed this path to save Ulysses from the enchanting sirens. With 1700 steps gracefully etched into the terrain, this hike, considered one of the world's most beautiful, ensures unforgettable memories that linger like cherished dreams. Lace up your boots and prepare for a journey that paints your soul with the colors of nature's wonders.

• The Valle dei Mulini
  Embark on a journey of tranquillity and historical marvels with the Valle Dei Mulini hike, starting from the charming town of Amalfi. This excursion isn't just a walk; it's a voyage through time, revealing vivid tales and ancient ruins along its colourful paths. Adventure enthusiasts are captivated by surprising stories, leading to the awe-inspiring sight of marvellous waterfalls. Nature's panorama is so breathtaking, it feels like a dream. Don't miss a stopover at Minori, a picturesque seaside resort where the Basilica of Santa Trofimena showcases fabulous architecture. Dive into this enchanting experience, where serenity meets adventure and history meets natural splendour. Your Amalfi Coast exploration just got even more unforgettable.

 

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast?

The Amalfi Coast boasts an array of luxurious accommodations, each offering a unique blend of charm, elegance, comfort, and hospitality, and many with mesmerising views of the sea and surrounding area. The region is renowned for its cliffside hotels, villas, and upscale resorts, promising an indulgent stay.

Positano is known for its glamour, housing iconic luxury hotels perched on the cliffs overlooking the sea. Opulent five-star properties such as Le Sirenuse and Il San Pietro di Positano epitomise luxury, featuring lavish rooms, exquisite dining, and private terraces commanding breathtaking vistas. Meanwhile in Ravello, you'll find a serene town boasting historic villas turned into luxurious hotels. Places like Belmond Hotel Caruso and Palazzo Avino exude sophistication with their lush gardens, infinity pools, and panoramic views of the coastline. The town of Amalfi offers luxury hotels blending modern amenities with historical charm. Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi, a former monastery, presents an upscale experience with its sea-facing rooms and spa facilities. The towns of Praiano and Sorrento also feature high-end accommodations, including boutique hotels and luxury resorts, providing exclusive services and stunning vistas.

Luxury stays along the Amalfi Coast ensure a lavish retreat, pampering guests with impeccable service, exquisite dining, and unparalleled views of the Mediterranean, promising an unforgettable experience amidst opulence and natural splendour. Allow our VeryChic travel experts to help you plan the perfect stay, and take a look at our current selection of luxury hotels in Italy.

 

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