Ultimate Amalfi Coast Travel Guide You Need for Italy

If you’re dreaming of colorful towns, amazing views, delicious food, and that relaxed dolce vita vibe, this Amalfi Coast travel guide is for you. I think this is one of the most beautiful and best places in southern Italy. The dramatic cliffs, seaside villages, lemon trees, and clear blue water make it really unique. There’s a lot to see and do here, so planning your trip can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time.

In this Amalfi Coast travel guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to plan your trip. You’ll find tips on the best time to visit, how to get around, the most beautiful coastal towns, where to stay, and the best beach clubs and experiences. My goal is to help you make the most of your time here, even if you only have a few days.

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Table of Contents

Unique Experiences to Book for your Amalfi Coast Travel Guide

Why the Amalfi Coast is a Popular Place to Visit in Italy

The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful places in Italy. Each town along the coast has its own unique vibe, even though they all share the same amazing scenery. You can explore colorful fishing villages, relax at luxury hotels, discover hidden coves, hang out in lively main squares, or find peaceful spots away from the crowds.

If you visit the Amalfi Coast, I recommend taking your time and really enjoying the experience. Go wine tasting with a sea view, wander through the local shops, and have a long lunch by the water. This is not a place to rush—it’s a place to slow down and really enjoy the atmosphere.

Where to stay in Amalfi Coast for All Budgets

Best Hotels on the Amalfi Coast

4 Incredible Luxury Hotels

1. Le Sirenuse (Positano)

Le Sirenuse is one of the most iconic luxury hotels on the coast. Located in Positano, it offers incredible views, elegant rooms, and a private beach club experience.

2. Hotel Miramalfi (Amalfi)

Perched on a cliff, the views of the coast are breathtaking! Hotel Miramalfi is beautifully designed with its own beach club and restaurants.

3. Hotel Poseidon (Positano)

Hotel Poseidon is another excellent option in Positano, known for its central location and beautiful terrace overlooking the sea. It’s a great choice if you want easy access to town.

4. Caruso, A Belmond Hotel (Ravello)

Caruso, A Belmond Hotel is a gorgeous splurge hotel. This 11th-century palace turned luxury hotel features lush gardens, an infinity pool, and spacious rooms with breathtaking views. It’s a top choice for a lavish stay.

4 Great Mid-Range Hotels

1. Palazzo Talamo (Positano)

Palazzo Talamo is a small, affordable hotel with the most amazing staff. Every room has breathtaking views of the sea and Positano’s picturesque landscape.

2. Hotel Villa Gianlica (Praiano)

Hotel Villa Gianlica is a boutique hotel with stunning views of the Mediterranean and cozy rooms with private terraces. Location is great, between Positano and Amalfi

3. Villa Piedimonte (Ravello)

Villa Piedimonte is in the hills of Ravello. It has luxurious rooms with modern amenities and stunning views.

4. Hotel Antiche Mura (Sorrento)

Hotel Antiche Mura is located in the heart of Sorrento, this hotel combines classic charm with modern comforts. It has a beautiful garden with a citrus grove and a relaxing pool area.

Best Time to Visit the Amalfi Coast

One of the most important things to know before planning your Amalfi Coast trip is when to visit. High season is from June to August. The weather is hot and sunny, but prices go up, and the crowds are everywhere. It’s by far the busiest time of the year.

April, May, September, October (shoulder season)

This is absolutely the best time of year to visit! Late spring and early fall have mild and pleasant weather, perfect for exploring without the summer heat. The crowds are much smaller, so you can actually enjoy the Amalfi Coast in a relaxed way. Everything is open and easy to get to.

June-August (peak season)

Summer is the busiest and hottest time to visit. Hotels and activities get much more expensive, and you need to book everything months ahead. The Amalfi Coast gets extremely packed, so it’s harder to enjoy the sights and the vibe.

November – March (off-season)

The weather is cooler, and some hotels and restaurants close for the winter, but it’s much quieter. There are barely any tourists, so you get to see the real local life without the summer crowds. If you want a peaceful trip and don’t mind the cold, this is a great time to visit.

How Many Days Do You Need on the Amalfi Coast?

If you want to really embrace la dolce vita and experience the charm of the Amalfi Coast, I recommend spending two weeks here. This way, you have enough time to explore the colorful towns, each with its own atmosphere. Positano has dramatic cliffs, while Ravello is all about the great view.

Two weeks is perfect if you want to take things slow, go on day trips, try amazing Italian food, and just enjoy the scenery. The Amalfi Coast is the best place to relax, recharge, and take in the laid-back beauty of Italy.

How to Get to the Amalfi Coast

Getting to the Amalfi Coast isn’t the easiest. The best way to get there really depends on your budget and how you like to travel. You can go directly or stop in Sorrento first, then continue to the different towns along the coast.

Naples International Airport is the closest airport to the Amalfi Coast. From there, you have a few good options to reach the coast. You can take a scenic ferry, hop on the SITA bus if you want to save money, or book a private driver if you want the most comfort. I’ve broken down each option so you can pick what works best for you.

Getting Around the Amalfi Coast

Getting around the Amalfi Coast can be tricky. You can drive, but parking is hard to find and the traffic gets really bad, especially in the summer.

You can also use public transportation. The SITA bus connects most of the small towns along the coast, but it gets crowded. I think the ferry is the best way to travel between places like Positano, Amalfi, and even Capri. The views from the ferry are amazing and the ride is very relaxing.

Best Towns to Visit on the Amalfi Coast

Positano

Positano is one of my favorite places on the Amalfi Coast. It’s famous for its postcard views and for Spiaggia Grande, the most iconic beach in the area. The pastel houses look amazing as they cascade down the cliffs.

You’ll find lots of small boutiques and great seafood restaurants here. You can shop for handmade sandals, ceramics, and unique Italian clothes. I suggest walking through the narrow streets and spending some time by the water. The views from the beach, where the colorful cliffs meet the turquoise sea, are unforgettable.

After exploring, I recommend stopping at a cafe for a drink. If you like seafood, you have to try the local restaurants. The seafood here is fresh, and the Mediterranean flavors are amazing.

Amalfi Town

Amalfi is the heart of the Amalfi Coast. The town is full of history and natural beauty. I recommend just walking around to really feel the local vibe.

You should definitely visit the Cathedral in Amalfi. Both, the façade and the interior are really impressive and show the local architecture. I also suggest visiting the piazzas. Grab a coffee or a gelato and enjoy the views.

Amalfi has a great mix of old-world charm and modern energy. It’s a place where you can enjoy history, culture, and relax at the same time.

Atrani

Atrani is one of the smaller towns, just a 10-minute walk from Amalfi, and it’s honestly one of the most charming places on the coast. The narrow streets, stone archways, and little piazzas make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s much quieter than Amalfi, with a local vibe that’s perfect if you want to escape the crowds.

What I love about Atrani is that you get beautiful coastal views and quiet beaches where you can actually relax and swim without the crowds. You can walk along the beach promenade or grab a coffee at one of the small cafes and just enjoy the scenery. If you want a calm, laid-back spot on the Amalfi Coast, Atrani is a real hidden gem.

Capri

Capri is the most famous island on the Amalfi Coast and it really lives up to the hype. The cliffs are dramatic, the water is crystal clear, and the Blue Grotto is something you have to see at least once. Capri is known for its luxury shops and restaurants, but you can also find quiet hiking trails and viewpoints with amazing views over the coast.

You don’t have to stay overnight to enjoy Capri. It’s easy to get there by boat from the mainland, and you can join a day tour if you want to see the highlights without rushing. Most boat trips stop at the Blue Grotto, where the water glows a bright blue that looks unreal.

Sorrento

Sorrento isn’t technically on the Amalfi Coast, but I think it’s a place you shouldn’t miss if you’re in the area. The town has a lively vibe and is known for its beautiful views over the Bay of Naples.

You’ll notice the lemons everywhere—Sorrento is famous for them, and you have to try the local limoncello. Take a walk through Piazza Tasso, which has lots of cute cafes, shops, and stalls selling handmade goods and all kinds of citrus treats.

Sorrento has a lot of history, too. If you like museums, check out the Museo Correale di Terranova to learn more about the town’s past. The Cloister of San Francesco is a quiet spot right in the center, perfect if you want a break from the crowds.

After you’ve explored, I recommend finding a local restaurant and trying some traditional dishes made with fresh ingredients. If you can, pick a place with a sea view—the scenery makes the meal even better. Even though Sorrento isn’t officially part of the Amalfi Coast, it’s so close that it’s a great base for exploring the whole area.

Ravello

Ravello sits high above the Amalfi Coast and has some of the best views you’ll find in the area. It’s also famous for gorgeous gardens! The town feels peaceful and is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the coast from a quieter spot.

Make sure to visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone. Both villas have beautiful gardens and terraces with amazing views over the sea and mountains. More details under the “things to do” section.

The town center in Ravello is small and charming, with narrow streets and lots of little shops to explore. I recommend taking your time to wander around and stop for a meal at a local restaurant. The seafood here is fresh, and the views are incredible. Ravello has a very relaxed, elegant vibe, and the scenery is unforgettable.

Praiano

Praiano is a peaceful town where you can watch some of the most beautiful sunsets on the Amalfi Coast. If you want to avoid the crowds and high prices of places like Positano, this is a great choice. I suggest visiting Marina di Praia beach or looking for the small coves nearby if you want a quiet spot to swim. The whole town has a relaxed vibe, so it’s perfect if you just want to slow down and enjoy the sea.

If you like hiking, you should definitely try the Path of the Gods trail. The views over the coast are incredible and it’s one of the best things to do in the area. After your walk, stop at a local restaurant for some fresh seafood or a traditional dish. In Praiano, you can enjoy the Amalfi Coast without the busy crowds, and it’s usually more budget-friendly than the famous towns nearby.

Vietri sul Mare

Vietri sul Mare is famous for its colorful ceramics, and it feels much more local than the other towns on the coast. Not many tourists stop here, so if you want a more authentic experience and fewer crowds, I recommend adding Vietri sul Mare to your itinerary.

Best Things to Do on the Amalfi Coast

Take a Boat day trip to Capri

If you visit the Amalfi Coast, you have to take a boat trip to Capri. It’s honestly one of the most memorable things you can do here. The views of the coastline and the island are absolutely stunning.

We booked a private boat tour for our trip. This was the best choice because we could make our own itinerary and explore at our own pace. If you like having flexibility, I really recommend this option. You can stop anywhere that looks interesting and make the tour fit your interests.

The highlight was visiting the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), where the water glows a magical, deep blue. If you visit during peak season, you might have to wait up to two hours. We went in shoulder season and didn’t have to wait at all.

We also stopped by the Faraglioni Rocks to enjoy the iconic view and opened a bottle of champagne that the boat company had given us. Most of these hidden spots can only be reached by boat, which makes the whole experience even more special.

Take a Vintage Car Tour

A vintage car tour is one of the best experiences you can have in Positano. It’s a unique way to explore the town and enjoy the beautiful views of the Amalfi Coast. Driving through the winding streets in a classic car feels special, almost like you’re in a movie. If you go in the morning, the town is still quiet and peaceful. You get to see the colorful houses and the coast without any crowds. It’s the perfect way to start your day.

You can choose to drive the car yourself or have a driver. We picked the driver option because the cars are manual, the roads are narrow, and Positano is very hilly. It was definitely the best choice. Our driver took us to the best spots, helped us take photos, and even filmed some videos for us.

You should definitely stop by the famous cliffside fruit stand just south of Positano, before you reach Praiano. This spot has some of the best views on the coast. The local vendor is really funny. He took our phone, showed us how to pose, and made sure we got great photos. While you’re there, buy some fruit to support him and enjoy the experience.

Address: SS163, 53, Positano (google maps coordinates: 40.62403563310551, 14.502228577157435)

Visit Villa Cimbrone

Villa Cimbrone in Ravello is one of those places that feels almost unreal. The gardens are beautiful and full of sculptures, and the views over the Amalfi Coast are some of the best you’ll find. As you walk around, you’ll see old buildings, pretty archways, and lots of quiet spots to relax. It’s definitely one of the highlights of the area.

The best part of Villa Cimbrone is the Terrace of Infinity. This balcony is lined with marble busts and looks out over the sea. The view is incredible – just blue sky and ocean everywhere you look.

Explore Villa Rufolo

Villa Rufolo is right in the center of Ravello and it’s one of the most beautiful places you can visit on the Amalfi Coast. The villa dates back to the 13th century and used to belong to one of the richest families in the area. You can still feel the grandeur and romantic vibe as you walk around. The views from here are amazing and the gardens are really elegant.

The terraced gardens are the highlight of Villa Rufolo. They are full of colorful flowers and tall cypress trees, and you can walk along the paths to reach some of the best viewpoints over the coast.

Besides the gardens, you can check out the old towers, the Moorish-style buildings, and the courtyards. Each part of the villa has its own charm. If you visit during the Ravello Festival, you can even catch a classical music concert with the sea in the background.

Take a Cooking class

What’s more iconic than taking a cooking class in Italy?! This is one of the best ways to experience the local culture. I learned to make traditional dishes with fresh, local ingredients, guided by a chef who shared family recipes and cooking tips. We made homemade gnocchi, eggplant parmigiana, and the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu.

The class was very hands-on, from rolling out the dough to putting together each dish. After cooking, we sat down to enjoy the meal with a glass of local wine and beautiful views.

This was a memorable experience with delicious food and good company. If you visit Positano or Sorrento, I recommend taking a cooking class. You can try the Positano Cooking Class or the Sorrento Cooking Class.

See the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi)

You can’t visit Amalfi without seeing the cathedral. It’s right in the center of town, and it’s one of the most impressive buildings on the coast. The facade is covered in gold and mosaics, and you’ll notice it right away as you walk up the big staircase.

Inside, you’ll see a mix of medieval and Baroque architecture, with beautiful frescoes and a decorated ceiling. Don’t miss the Cloister of Paradise, which is a quiet courtyard with white columns and lots of greenery.

Be sure to check out the crypt of Saint Andrew, where you can see the relics of the apostle. The whole cathedral is full of history and art, and it’s one of the top places to visit in Amalfi. Even if you just admire it from the outside or walk through the halls, you’ll get a sense of the town’s culture and history.

Walk over to Cloister of Paradise (Chiostro del Paradiso)

The Cloister of Paradise is right next to the cathedral and it’s one of those places you might miss if you don’t know about it. It was built in the 13th century as a burial place for noble families. Now it’s a peaceful spot with white marble columns, Moorish arches, and lots of plants. It’s a nice break from the busy streets outside.

When you walk in, you’ll see a pretty courtyard with archways that let in lots of light. There are old frescoes and you can spot details from Roman and Byzantine times. It’s a great place to stop for a bit, enjoy the history, and take in the mix of styles.

Hike the path of the Gods

One of the most breathtaking hikes in Italy, the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) offers unforgettable views of the Amalfi Coast from high above the cliffs. This scenic trail winds through rugged landscapes, terraced vineyards, and charming hillside villages, with sweeping panoramas of the Mediterranean Sea stretching out below.

The hike begins in Bomerano, a small village in Agerola, and takes you along a well-marked trail with some of the most stunning coastal views in the region. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient stone pathways, lush greenery, and cliffs, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. The trail ends in the town of Nocelle, where you can either continue down to Positano (via a long staircase of over 1,500 steps) or catch a bus to town.

The hike isn’t too hard, and most people who are fairly active should be able to do it. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and start early in the morning to avoid the midday sun. If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the Amalfi Coast, hiking the Path of the Gods is truly an unforgettable adventure!

Do some Limoncello tasting

If you visit Sorrento, you have to try a Limoncello tasting. The best place for this is Limonoro Fabbrica, a family-run factory that makes some of the best Limoncello in the area. They use traditional recipes that have been passed down for generations.

When you walk in, you’ll smell fresh lemons right away. The shop is full of bottles of homemade Limoncello, lemon treats, and local souvenirs. You can taste the famous Sorrento Limoncello, which is made from local lemons that are super fragrant and flavorful.

Besides Limoncello, Limonoro has lots of tasty desserts like lemon chocolates, cookies, and cakes made with Limoncello. These are great if you want to bring home a souvenir or a gift.

Relax at the Beaches and Beach clubs

Here’s a guide to some of the best beach clubs and spots along the coast:

Every beach club here has its own vibe. Il Riccio Beach Club feels exclusive, while Arienzo Beach Club Positano is always lively and fun. I recommend trying the seafood at these places—it’s some of the best on the coast. You can relax with a drink and enjoy the amazing views of the sea.

POSITANO:

L’Incanto
La Scogliera Positano
Da Ferdinando
Arienzo Beach Club Positano
Pupetto Beach Club Positano
Da Adolfo

AMALFI

Lido Degli Artisti
Ristorante Santa Croce
Marinella Beach Club

CAPRI

Lido del Faro
La Fontelina
Il Riccio Beach Club
Le Ondine Beach Club
Torre Saracena Beach Club

ATRANI

Lido di Ravello Beach Club
Main beach has tons of beach clubs

PRAIANO

One Fire Beach Club
Marina di Praia
La Gavitella – Restaurant & Beach

SORRENTO

Maya Beach Experience
Marameo Beach Club