Amalfi Coast, Italy
Locavy ratings
Party
3.5/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
2/5
Transport Links
1.5/5
Experiences
4/5
Party
3.5/5
Sightseeing
4.5/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
2/5
Transport Links
1.5/5
Experiences
4/5
At a glance
The Amalfi Coast, situated on the southwestern Italian coastline, is renowned for its breathtaking vistas, charming towns, and frequent celebrity sightings, attracting over 5 million visitors annually.
Party
The Amalfi Coast offers a selection of vibrant bars and beach clubs, making it perfect for enjoying seaside cocktails and live music. Party boats are also a popular choice for revelers. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the region lacks significant nightclub options, so the nightlife primarily revolves around beachfront gatherings and cozy bars.
Sightseeing
The Amalfi Coast is celebrated for its stunning coastal beauty, whether you’re admiring the dramatic cliffs or strolling through charming coastal towns. Alongside the iconic coastline, you can explore picturesque hikes, enchanting canyons, and hidden waterfalls, all contributing to the region’s remarkable charm.
Relaxation
The Amalfi Coast’s popularity can sometimes lead to crowded streets, especially during peak season. While navigating the narrow and winding roads can be a bit hectic, the region still offers tranquility. You’ll find numerous pristine beaches tucked away in coves and inlets, providing the perfect spots for coastal hideaways to unwind and bask in the Mediterranean sun.
Value
The Amalfi Coast is known for being one of the pricier destinations in Europe. For more budget friendly options, consider accommodations outside the Amalfi Coast and day trips. You can also economize by minimizing paid activities, particularly since many of the region’s top attractions are free.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
The nearest airport to the Amalfi Coast is in Naples, and the journey to reach the Amalfi Coast from there typically takes over an hour by taxi or bus. Additionally, unless your plan includes staying in Sorrento or Salerno, direct train routes are limited.
Train
Reaching the Amalfi Coast by train requires a two-step journey. First, take a train to either Sorrento or Salerno, and from there, you can continue your journey to the Amalfi Coast by bus or taxi.
Drive
Navigating the Amalfi Coast by car is discouraged due to its narrow cliffside roads. For a more convenient and relaxing experience, consider using public transport or hiring a taxi to explore the area.
Experiences
The Amalfi Coast offers a range of captivating experiences. Explore the stunning coastline with hikes like the renowned Path of the Gods trek. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to embark on various boat trips, discovering hidden coves, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters.
Best Things To Do
1. Guided Exploration
Hiring a guide for the day is the ultimate way to make the most of your Amalfi Coast experience. Not only will you have a knowledgeable driver to navigate the challenging roads, but they’ll also take you to hidden gems that you might miss otherwise.
Book your guide in advance to ensure availability, and consider visiting less crowded spots.
2. Fiordo di Furore
The stunning Fiordo di Furore offers a picturesque canyon and a great spot for swimming with the backdrop of an arched bridge – an absolute must-visit.
Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure a good spot for photos.
3. Path of the Gods Hike
Embark on the famous Path of the Gods trek, which delivers unmatched vistas of the Amalfi Coast, including its towns, cliffs, and turquoise waters, making it well worth the roughly two-hour journey.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, and start the hike in the early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer hikers.
4. Day Tripping
Explore beyond the coast with excellent day trips to iconic destinations like Capri, Pompeii, and Naples, adding diversity to your Amalfi Coast adventure.
Plan your day trips and book tickets in advance to secure your spot, especially during the high season.
5. Coastal Boat Excursion
Enjoy a boat trip along the coastline, an ideal way to discover the region from a unique perspective and take advantage of swimming and snorkeling in the inviting waters.
Opt for a smaller group or private tour for a more intimate experience.
6. Positano Exploration
Meander through Positano’s charming cobbled streets, one of the most beautiful parts of the coastline, although brace yourself for steep stairs and a vertical town layout.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and take your time exploring the town’s picturesque alleys.
7. Culinary Delights
Savour the region’s renowned cuisine by attending a cooking class, with pizza-making classes being a favorite, often offered in picturesque coastal settings or on inland farms.
After your cooking class, enjoy the meal you prepared with a view.
8. Retail Therapy
Don’t miss shopping in local stores across the Amalfi Coast, where you’ll find a variety of handcrafted souvenirs, including the iconic limoncello.
To support local artisans, seek out family-owned shops, and inquire about the story behind the products you’re purchasing.
9. Ferriere Valley Waterfalls
Discover the Ferriere Valley, a beautiful nature reserve with hiking trails, featuring stunning waterfalls that offer a refreshing spot for a swim.
To avoid crowds, consider visiting the waterfalls early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
10. Duomo di Amalfi
Visit the medieval cathedral, Duomo di Amalfi, located in the town of Amalfi, an iconic sight that dominates the city’s skyline and is a must-see attraction.
Check the opening hours and consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds.
1. Guided Exploration
Hiring a guide for the day is the ultimate way to make the most of your Amalfi Coast experience. Not only will you have a knowledgeable driver to navigate the challenging roads, but they’ll also take you to hidden gems that you might miss otherwise.
Book your guide in advance to ensure availability, and consider visiting less crowded spots.
2. Fiordo di Furore
The stunning Fiordo di Furore offers a picturesque canyon and a great spot for swimming with the backdrop of an arched bridge – an absolute must-visit.
Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure a good spot for photos.
3. Path of the Gods Hike
Embark on the famous Path of the Gods trek, which delivers unmatched vistas of the Amalfi Coast, including its towns, cliffs, and turquoise waters, making it well worth the roughly two-hour journey.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, and start the hike in the early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer hikers.
4. Day Tripping
Explore beyond the coast with excellent day trips to iconic destinations like Capri, Pompeii, and Naples, adding diversity to your Amalfi Coast adventure.
Plan your day trips and book tickets in advance to secure your spot, especially during the high season.
5. Coastal Boat Excursion
Enjoy a boat trip along the coastline, an ideal way to discover the region from a unique perspective and take advantage of swimming and snorkeling in the inviting waters.
Opt for a smaller group or private tour for a more intimate experience.
6. Positano Exploration
Meander through Positano’s charming cobbled streets, one of the most beautiful parts of the coastline, although brace yourself for steep stairs and a vertical town layout.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and take your time exploring the town’s picturesque alleys.
7. Culinary Delights
Savour the region’s renowned cuisine by attending a cooking class, with pizza-making classes being a favorite, often offered in picturesque coastal settings or on inland farms.
After your cooking class, enjoy the meal you prepared with a view.
8. Retail Therapy
Don’t miss shopping in local stores across the Amalfi Coast, where you’ll find a variety of handcrafted souvenirs, including the iconic limoncello.
To support local artisans, seek out family-owned shops, and inquire about the story behind the products you’re purchasing.
9. Ferriere Valley Waterfalls
Discover the Ferriere Valley, a beautiful nature reserve with hiking trails, featuring stunning waterfalls that offer a refreshing spot for a swim.
To avoid crowds, consider visiting the waterfalls early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
10. Duomo di Amalfi
Visit the medieval cathedral, Duomo di Amalfi, located in the town of Amalfi, an iconic sight that dominates the city’s skyline and is a must-see attraction.
Check the opening hours and consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Navigating Winding Roads
The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its winding roads, which can be challenging and induce motion sickness in some travelers.
6.
Choosing Accommodation
Opt for lodging in towns bordering the Amalfi Coast, such as Sorrento or Salerno, for more budget-friendly options.
2.
Avoid Driving
Driving the Amalfi Coast is strongly discouraged due to narrow roads and frequent need for vehicle maneuvering; consider hiring a driver or using public transportation.
7.
Seafood Delights
Savor the region’s renowned seafood dishes while dining along the Amalfi Coast.
3.
Early Hotel Reservations
Secure your accommodation well in advance, particularly if you plan to stay in central Amalfi Coast towns, as hotels tend to book up months ahead.
8.
Limited Train Access
There are no train routes directly through the Amalfi Coast, but you can access the area by train from nearby cities like Sorrento and Salerno.
4.
High Season Crowds
The Amalfi Coast experiences heavy tourist traffic throughout spring, summer, and autumn due to its popularity.
9.
Pebble Beaches
Most beaches on the Amalfi Coast have pebbles instead of sand, so bring appropriate footwear.
5.
Accessing Beaches
Many beautiful beaches are tucked at the base of cliffs, making access challenging, and they can get crowded during peak times.
10.
Reserve Your Dining
Make dinner reservations in advance, especially if you want to dine at a restaurant with a scenic view.
6.
Choosing Accommodation
Opt for lodging in towns bordering the Amalfi Coast, such as Sorrento or Salerno, for more budget-friendly options.
7.
Seafood Delights
Savor the region’s renowned seafood dishes while dining along the Amalfi Coast.
8.
Limited Train Access
There are no train routes directly through the Amalfi Coast, but you can access the area by train from nearby cities like Sorrento and Salerno.
9.
Pebble Beaches
Most beaches on the Amalfi Coast have pebbles instead of sand, so bring appropriate footwear.
10.
Reserve Your Dining
Make dinner reservations in advance, especially if you want to dine at a restaurant with a scenic view.