Amalfi Coast
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Latest page update: 18 January 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The Amalfi Coast is a unique coastline stretching from the southern Italian town of Positano at its far western end along to Vietri sul Mare on its eastern side. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997, the region draws a huge number of visitors throughout the year and it's easy to understand why with such an incredible array of riches contained within it.
The most famous sites are the aforementioned Positano, the town of Amalfi, Ravello with its two wonderful villas (Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone) and the dozens of little villages in the hilly interior. |
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Each town has its own unique character, be it a curious cove or a pretty location hanging over the sea while linking these places is one of the most famous driving routes in the whole world, the Amalfi Coast Road.
There are also some fantastic hiking routes along the 60 km (37 mile) coastline including the wonderfully-named "Path of the Gods", a dazzling walk through vineyards with some impossibly beautiful panoramas.
Apart from the best-known sights listed above there are countless treasures that will pleasantly surprise with their genuine southern Italian feel, small towns such as Cetara or the beach resort of Erchie to name but two.
There are also some fantastic hiking routes along the 60 km (37 mile) coastline including the wonderfully-named "Path of the Gods", a dazzling walk through vineyards with some impossibly beautiful panoramas.
Apart from the best-known sights listed above there are countless treasures that will pleasantly surprise with their genuine southern Italian feel, small towns such as Cetara or the beach resort of Erchie to name but two.
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Amalfi Coast: southern Italy's famous coastline and a UNESCO World Heritage site
The Amalfi Coast, located in the Campania region of southern Italy, is one of the most picturesque and iconic coastal areas in the world. Stretching along the Tyrrhenian Sea, the coast is known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns. It is easily accessible from Naples or Salerno by car, bus, or train, with ferries connecting coastal towns during the summer.
The Amalfi Coast has a rich history, dating back to ancient Roman times, and flourished during the Middle Ages as a major maritime power. Its towns retain much of their historical charm, with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and ancient architecture.
Major sights include Positano, with its steep streets and beautiful beach; Amalfi, home to the stunning Cathedral of Sant’Andrea; and Ravello, known for its gardens and breathtaking views. The Path of the Gods, a renowned hiking trail, offers spectacular panoramas of the coastline.
Nearby, visitors can explore the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, Mount Vesuvius, and the islands of Capri and Ischia. With its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness, the Amalfi Coast is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Italy’s charm.
The Amalfi Coast has a rich history, dating back to ancient Roman times, and flourished during the Middle Ages as a major maritime power. Its towns retain much of their historical charm, with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and ancient architecture.
Major sights include Positano, with its steep streets and beautiful beach; Amalfi, home to the stunning Cathedral of Sant’Andrea; and Ravello, known for its gardens and breathtaking views. The Path of the Gods, a renowned hiking trail, offers spectacular panoramas of the coastline.
Nearby, visitors can explore the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, Mount Vesuvius, and the islands of Capri and Ischia. With its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness, the Amalfi Coast is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Italy’s charm.
Costiera Amalfitana
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Region: Campania
Regional district: Salerno Province Length: 40 km Highlights: Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, Atrani, Conca dei Marini Recommended hotel: Villa Piedimonte (Ravello) Fly to: Naples International Airport - 55 mins/55 km (from Vietri) |
What are the best hotels on the Amalfi Coast?
- Il San Pietro di Positano: Perched on a cliffside in Positano, this luxurious hotel features an elevator leading to a private beach, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and panoramic terraces.
- Le Sirenuse: Located in the heart of Positano, this elegant hotel offers beautifully appointed rooms with private balconies overlooking the bay, a renowned spa, and exceptional dining options.
- Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa: Set in a restored 17th-century monastery in Conca dei Marini, this boutique hotel provides a tranquil retreat with a cliff-edge infinity pool, lush gardens, and a holistic spa.
- Belmond Hotel Caruso: Situated in Ravello, this historic property features frescoed salons, terraced gardens, and an infinity pool with breathtaking views of the coastline.
- Santa Caterina Hotel: Located in Amalfi, this family-run hotel offers elegant rooms, a private beach club, and a renowned restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.
- Villa Cimbrone: Perched on a cliff in Ravello, this historic villa-turned-hotel boasts antique-filled rooms, extensive gardens, and the famous Terrace of Infinity overlooking the sea.
- Casa Angelina: Nestled in Praiano, this contemporary hotel features minimalist design, an art collection, and a private beach accessible by elevator.
- Palazzo Avino: Housed in a 12th-century villa in Ravello, this luxury hotel offers refined rooms, a spa, and a beach club in the nearby town of Marmorata.
- Hotel Poseidon: Situated in Positano, this charming hotel provides spacious rooms with Mediterranean décor, a panoramic terrace, and a swimming pool surrounded by lemon trees.
- Villa Treville: Once the private residence of director Franco Zeffirelli, this exclusive estate in Positano offers individually designed suites, lush gardens, and private beach access.
What's the best way to reach the Amalfi Coast?
Reaching the Amalfi Coast in Italy is convenient due to its well-connected location. The nearest airports are Naples Capodichino (NAP), about 60 kilometers away, and Rome Fiumicino (FCO), approximately 3 hours by car. From Naples, you can rent a car, take a private transfer, or use public transport to reach the coast.
By road, the SS163 Amalfitana highway offers stunning views but requires careful navigation due to its winding nature. Rail travelers can take a train to Salerno or Naples from major cities like Rome or Florence. Salerno is ideal for direct connections to towns like Amalfi and Positano via local buses or ferries.
Ferries operate between Salerno, Naples, Sorrento, and the coastal towns during warmer months, offering a scenic way to travel. SITA local buses connect the towns along the Amalfi Coast, providing affordable and reliable transportation. With its stunning landscapes and efficient transport options, getting to the Amalfi Coast is part of the adventure.
By road, the SS163 Amalfitana highway offers stunning views but requires careful navigation due to its winding nature. Rail travelers can take a train to Salerno or Naples from major cities like Rome or Florence. Salerno is ideal for direct connections to towns like Amalfi and Positano via local buses or ferries.
Ferries operate between Salerno, Naples, Sorrento, and the coastal towns during warmer months, offering a scenic way to travel. SITA local buses connect the towns along the Amalfi Coast, providing affordable and reliable transportation. With its stunning landscapes and efficient transport options, getting to the Amalfi Coast is part of the adventure.
Amalfi Coast Gallery
What are the top-rated restaurants on the Amalfi Coast?
- La Sponda: Located in Positano's Le Sirenuse Hotel, La Sponda offers Mediterranean cuisine crafted with local ingredients, served in a romantic setting illuminated by hundreds of candles.
- Ristorante Don Alfonso 1890: Situated in Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant is celebrated for its innovative take on traditional Neapolitan dishes, emphasizing organic and locally sourced produce.
- Ristorante La Caravella: Located in Amalfi, La Caravella is one of the region's oldest Michelin-starred restaurants, offering a refined menu that highlights the rich flavors of the Amalfi Coast.
- Ristorante Il Refettorio: Set within the Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel in Conca dei Marini, Il Refettorio provides a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes.
- Ristorante Marina Grande: Situated in Amalfi, this family-run establishment offers a modern twist on classic seafood dishes, complemented by a beachfront setting and exceptional service.
- Ristorante Eolo: Located in Amalfi, Eolo combines a panoramic terrace with a menu that blends traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine, focusing on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
- Ristorante Il Pirata: Nestled in Praiano, Il Pirata offers a unique dining experience with its seaside location, serving fresh seafood and regional specialties in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Ristorante Al Mare: Part of the Hotel Santa Caterina in Amalfi, Al Mare provides a delightful menu featuring grilled fish and pizzas, served on a terrace overlooking the sea.
- Ristorante Rossellinis: Located in Ravello's Palazzo Avino, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers an elegant dining experience with a menu that showcases the best of Italian haute cuisine.
- Ristorante La Taverna del Leone: Situated near Positano, this family-owned restaurant is known for its warm hospitality and a menu that features homemade pastas and traditional dishes cooked in a wood-fired oven.
