Amalfi Coast Travel Guide: Best Towns, Food, Beaches & Tips
The Amalfi Coast is a 30-mile stretch of rocky shoreline in southern Italy, sitting on the Sorrentine Peninsula. With its steep cliffs, colorful villages, and citrus groves, it is one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. We had heard stories about it, but seeing it in person was beyond our imagination.
Our Stay in Sorrento
We chose Sorrento as our home base. Just one hour south of Naples, this lively town is full of shops, restaurants, and small streets that invite you to wander. From here, it was easy to reach Positano, Amalfi, Capri, and Ravello.
We stayed at the Bellevue Syrene Hotel, a former patrician residence now part of Relais & Châteaux. With its sweeping views of the Bay of Naples, it was the perfect place to wake up and plan our days.
Positano: A Postcard Come to Life
Driving along the cliffside highway to Positano was thrilling and a little nerve-wracking. The road was narrow and winding, but the views were breathtaking. Once we arrived, we explored on foot since there are no cars allowed in the center. Walking down the colorful lanes lined with shops, churches, and cafés felt like stepping into a postcard.
Amalfi: History and Gelato
The town of Amalfi rests beneath tall cliffs. It is the largest town along the Amalfi Coast and is filled with history. We enjoyed gelato in the main square while admiring the Duomo di Sant’Andrea Apostolo, a cathedral with stunning architecture. It was the perfect way to slow down and take in the Italian atmosphere.
Ravello: The Hidden Treasure
High above the coastline lies Ravello, a small medieval village. The air smelled of lemon trees and vineyards, the source of the famous limoncello. We wandered through stone streets, gardens, and terraces with views that seemed endless. Ravello felt like a secret, far from the busy crowds.
Capri: Island Dreams
No trip to the Amalfi Coast is complete without visiting Capri. A short ferry ride took us to this glamorous island. We browsed its stylish shops, enjoyed fresh seafood, and visited the magical Blue Grotto, a sea cave glowing with blue light. It was one of the most unforgettable sights of our journey.
Best Things to Do on the Amalfi Coast
From our personal trip, here are activities we recommend:
- Walk the Path of the Gods hiking trail for stunning views.
- Relax at beaches like Marina Grande or Fornillo Beach.
- Taste local specialties: fresh seafood, pizza, and sfogliatella (a flaky pastry).
- Take a boat tour along the coast to see hidden coves.
- Try limoncello in its birthplace.
Best Time to Visit
We visited in late spring, and it was perfect. The weather was warm but not too hot, and the crowds were smaller than in summer. The best times to visit the Amalfi Coast are April–June and September–October.
Getting Around
- From Naples: you can take a train, bus, or ferry.
- By car: driving offers freedom but be ready for narrow roads.
- By ferry: the most relaxing way to hop between towns.
Final Thoughts
The Amalfi Coast is more than just a destination. It is a feeling — a mix of natural beauty, history, food, and culture. From Sorrento’s charm to Capri’s romance, every stop felt magical. For us, it wasn’t just a trip. It was an escapadita filled with memories we will never forget.
