Amalfi
Latest page update: 1 February 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Amalfi in many ways is the most important town along the coast that bears its name.
It's situated roughly in the middle of the Amalfi Coast with Positano to its west and Vietri sul Mare to its east. Apart from being a busy seaside resort, Amalfi has a fascinating and at times, glorious history as it was once a powerful maritime republic with a population of around 70,000 during the Byzantine period. |
These days most visitors are drawn by its attractive seafront and main thoroughfare with its array of shops and restaurants. Without a doubt, the highlight of the town is its stunning cathedral.
Dedicated to Saint Andrew, the cathedral is known locally simply as "Il Duomo" (as are most cathedrals in Italy in fact). The Duomo dominates the small town centre with its steps leading up to the beautiful, striped facade with its iconic arches.
Put simply, Amalfi is a must for any visitor to the Amalfi Coast.
Dedicated to Saint Andrew, the cathedral is known locally simply as "Il Duomo" (as are most cathedrals in Italy in fact). The Duomo dominates the small town centre with its steps leading up to the beautiful, striped facade with its iconic arches.
Put simply, Amalfi is a must for any visitor to the Amalfi Coast.
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Amalfi: historic jewel of the Amalfi Coast
Amalfi sits between steep cliffs and the Mediterranean Sea. In the Middle Ages, it was a maritime republic that traded with the Middle East and North Africa. Today, it is known for its history, architecture, and local traditions.
The town’s main sight is the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, a 9th-century church with a large staircase leading to its entrance. Inside, it has Romanesque, Byzantine, and Baroque influences. Next to it is the Cloister of Paradise, with medieval columns and frescoes. The Museum of Handmade Paper preserves the town’s paper-making tradition, which dates back to the 13th century.
The surrounding area has terraced lemon groves, which produce lemons used in local liqueurs and desserts. Near Amalfi, the village of Ravello is known for its gardens and music festival. Positano, a town with houses built along the cliffs, is a short drive away.
The Emerald Grotto, a sea cave with green light reflecting off the water, is a popular boat excursion. Ferries connect Amalfi to Capri, Sorrento, and Salerno, making it an important stop on the Amalfi Coast.
The town’s main sight is the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, a 9th-century church with a large staircase leading to its entrance. Inside, it has Romanesque, Byzantine, and Baroque influences. Next to it is the Cloister of Paradise, with medieval columns and frescoes. The Museum of Handmade Paper preserves the town’s paper-making tradition, which dates back to the 13th century.
The surrounding area has terraced lemon groves, which produce lemons used in local liqueurs and desserts. Near Amalfi, the village of Ravello is known for its gardens and music festival. Positano, a town with houses built along the cliffs, is a short drive away.
The Emerald Grotto, a sea cave with green light reflecting off the water, is a popular boat excursion. Ferries connect Amalfi to Capri, Sorrento, and Salerno, making it an important stop on the Amalfi Coast.
Comune di Amalfi
Province: Salerno
Region: Campania Population: 4,644 (2024 - source) Size: 6 km² Highlights: Amalfi Cathedral, Marina Grande, Piazza del Duomo Close by: Atrani, Castiglione Beach, Minori, Conca dei Marini By car: Ravello - 19 mins, Positano - 40 mins, Sorrento - 1 hr 9 mins Fly to: Naples International Airport (74 km) Nearest train station: Salerno (24 km) Recommended accommodation: Hotel Marina Riviera |
What are the best hotels in Amalfi?
- Santa Caterina Hotel: A historic hotel offering 66 rooms and suites with sea views, lush gardens, and a beach club featuring a heated saltwater pool.
- Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel: Set in a 13th-century Capuchin convent, this boutique hotel features original cloisters, frescoes, and a Baroque church, blending historical charm with modern luxury.
- Hotel Miramalfi: Perched on a cliffside, this hotel offers panoramic sea views, an outdoor pool, and direct access to the sea, providing a quintessential Amalfi Coast experience.
- Hotel Marina Riviera: Located near Amalfi's historic center, this hotel features elegantly furnished rooms with balconies overlooking the sea, a rooftop terrace, and a swimming pool.
- NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi: Housed in a restored 13th-century monastery, this hotel offers a blend of historic architecture and modern amenities, including an infinity pool with stunning coastal views.
What's the best way to reach Amalfi?
Amalfi is accessible by various transport options. The nearest airport is Naples International Airport, about 65 kilometers away. From the airport, travelers can take a taxi, rent a car, or use the Curreri Viaggi bus to Sorrento, followed by a local connection to Amalfi.
By road, Amalfi is reached via the SS163 Amalfi Drive, a scenic but narrow and winding coastal road. Driving can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking.
There are no direct train services to Amalfi, but travelers can take a train to Salerno or Sorrento and continue by bus or ferry.
Ferry connections are available from Naples, Salerno, and Sorrento, offering a scenic way to reach Amalfi.
Local SITA buses connect Amalfi with nearby towns such as Positano, Ravello, and Sorrento. These buses run frequently but can be crowded, especially in peak tourist season.
By road, Amalfi is reached via the SS163 Amalfi Drive, a scenic but narrow and winding coastal road. Driving can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking.
There are no direct train services to Amalfi, but travelers can take a train to Salerno or Sorrento and continue by bus or ferry.
Ferry connections are available from Naples, Salerno, and Sorrento, offering a scenic way to reach Amalfi.
Local SITA buses connect Amalfi with nearby towns such as Positano, Ravello, and Sorrento. These buses run frequently but can be crowded, especially in peak tourist season.
Amalfi Gallery
Where are the best places to eat in Amalfi?
- Glicine: Located within the Hotel Santa Caterina, Glicine is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined Mediterranean cuisine with panoramic sea views.
- La Caravella dal 1959: As one of the oldest Michelin-starred restaurants in southern Italy, La Caravella dal 1959 serves traditional Amalfi Coast dishes in an elegant setting adorned with local art and ceramics.
- Sensi Restaurant: Offering a modern twist on Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, Sensi provides a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and innovative presentations.
- Taverna Buonvicino: Nestled in a charming square away from the main tourist paths, this restaurant offers Italian and Mediterranean dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
- L'Abside: Situated near the main square, L'Abside is known for its Italian and seafood dishes, providing a casual dining experience with a variety of local specialties.