Amalfi Coast Travel Guide: What to See and Do in Amalfi Coast
Amalfi Coast General Information
The Amalfi Coast, located in the Campania region of southern Italy, is a dream destination that captivates travelers with its scenic beauty and rich history.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this spectacular stretch of coastline stretches some 50 kilometers between the cities of Sorrento and Salerno.
Its sheer cliffs plunge into the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, creating a breathtaking landscape.
Colorful and charming villages, such as Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, cling to the mountain slopes, offering unforgettable panoramic views.
The Amalfi Coast is also famous for its Mediterranean cuisine, where the fresh flavors of the region are fused into delicious dishes.
In addition to its natural beauty and gastronomy, the region offers a rich cultural heritage. Ancient churches, historic villas, and Roman ruins are scattered along the coast, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Whether exploring its picturesque villages, enjoying the views from the Amalfi coastal road, or relaxing on its pebble beaches, the Amalfi Coast promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Most Beautiful Villages of Amalfi Coast
Amalfi
Amalfi is one of the most historic towns along the coast, with important commercial activity in medieval times.
The city is on the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea and has a marina full of luxurious boats, as well as beautiful medieval architecture.
The Cathedral of St. Andrew the Apostle, the Cloister of Paradise, and the Arsenal are the most visited historical sites.
Positano
Positano represents all the attributes of the Amalfi Coast, offering extraordinary panoramic views, it is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque villages on the Sorrento Peninsula.
This former fishing village has become one of the most elegant and cosmopolitan places on the Amalfi Coast.
Ravello
Although Ravello is not by the sea, the town offers natural and historical charms that are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 1993).
It is also known for musical and cultural events, such as the Ravello Festival and the Chamber Music Festival, one of the most popular sites is the Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium.
Maiori
The historic town boasts one of the longest beaches on the Amalfi Coast, formerly named Reghinna Maior, Maiori offers the characteristic splendor of the area.
The Castle of St. Nicholas of Thoro-Plano is on one of its hills, a fortress dating back to the 15th century, and receives thousands of visitors every year. It is also known for serving as a backdrop for films by the famous director Roberto Rossellini.
Sorrento
It is a port city that offers benefits for its geographical location, thousands of visitors use it as a starting point to discover the Amalfi Coast.
It has easy access to the island of Capri and the seaside town of Positano (only 18 km away), and you can even enjoy the historic center (home to important tourist attractions such as the Museo della Tarsia Lignea).
Gastronomy
The cuisine of the Amalfi Coast is based on simplicity and quality ingredients, highlighting the natural flavors of the region to offer an unforgettable dining experience.
1. Pasta with seafood
Given its direct access to the Tyrrhenian Sea, fresh seafood is an essential part of the coastal cuisine. Dishes such as “linguine alle vongole” (pasta with clams) or “spaghetti ai frutti di mare” (spaghetti with seafood) are very popular.
2. Amalfi lemons
Amalfi lemons are famous for their large size and unique, fragrant flavor. They are used in a variety of local dishes and products, such as limoncello (lemon liqueur), “delizia al limone” (lemon cake), and “canditi di limone” (candied lemons).
3. Buffalo mozzarella cheese
From the surrounding region of Campania, buffalo mozzarella is a fresh and soft cheese used in salads, pizzas, and antipasti.
4. San Marzano Tomatoes
These tomatoes, grown in the San Marzano sul Sarno region, are known for their sweet flavor and low acidity. They are used in pasta sauces, and salads and as a main ingredient in dishes such as “Pizza Margherita”.
5. Sfogliatella
This is a traditional pastry from the region, characterized by its crispy puff pastry and its sweet ricotta or lemon cream filling.
6. Fresh fruits and vegetables
The Amalfi Coast is blessed with a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, which are found in abundance in the local markets. These include figs, eggplants, artichokes, oranges, and avocados.
Top 5: Festivals and Events
1. Amalfi Lemon Festival
This festival is held in the spring, usually in May, in the town of Amalfi. During the festival, the Amalfi lemon is honored with parades, exhibitions, culinary contests, and tastings of lemon products.
2. Ravello Festival
This prestigious music festival takes place during the summer months in the town of Ravello. It offers a varied program that includes classical, opera, ballet, and jazz concerts in historic venues such as Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.
3. San Pantaleone Festival
Held on July 27 in the town of Positano, this religious festival honors St. Pantaleon, the town's patron saint. It includes religious processions, live music, traditional dances, and fireworks.
4. Blue Fish Festival
This gastronomic festival is held in the town of Cetara in mid-July. During the event, local dishes made with blue fish are highlighted, such as “colatura di alici” (an anchovy sauce) and “spaghetti alla colatura”.
5. Santa Rosalia Festival
Held on September 4 in the town of Minori in honor of Santa Rosalia, the town's patron saint. The festival includes religious processions, live music, fireworks displays, and cultural events.
How to get to the Amalfi Coast from Naples?
If you are wondering how to get around the Amalfi Coast, consider that the main transportation services to the area are in Naples, Sorrento, and Salerno.
The public transport service offers bus and ferry routes, while the nearest airport (Capodichino) is 65 km from Amalfi.
For those traveling from northern Italy, the first town you will find is Positano. Continuing along State Road 163, you pass the towns of Praiano, Amalfi, Minori, Maiori, Cetara and Vietri sul Mare.
The only railroad station on the Amalfi Coast is in Vietri sul Mare, which is connected to the railway stations of Naples and Salerno.
How to get around the Amalfi Coast?
Motorcycles are the most popular means of transportation to move around the Amalfi Coast, they allow more freedom to explore the area.
Moreover, considering the characteristics offered by the road (1 single channel), you will not have to worry about traffic or where to park in high season.
However, motorcycles are recommended for people with experience; if this is not the case, you can also opt to rent a car.
Buses also offer an alternative for touring the coastal towns, however, be aware of the influx of tourists in high season (schedules may vary according to traffic on the SS163 road).
Private Transfer on the Amalfi Coast
If you are looking for the most comfortable and safe option to get to the Amalfi Coast or the nearby cities, book your private transfer with Greca, with experienced drivers and no surprise charges to make your stay on the Amalfi Coast the most pleasant.
When to Visit the Amalfi Coast
The weather on the Amalfi Coast is best to visit between May to June and mid-September to mid-October. Afternoon temperatures during these months range from 22°C to 27°C (72°F to 80°F).
For those planning to enjoy the beach with warmer temperatures, the best time of the year is from June to mid-October.
However, to enjoy the beaches without the crowds, it is best to plan for late spring or early summer.
If you like nightlife and local festivals, most events are held during July and August. The concert and festival calendar is particularly full during these two months.
Nearby Destinations
Because of its proximity to Amalfi and Athens, many travelers combine their visit to the Amalfi Coast with these beautiful destinations.
Are you looking for incredible historical sites? Do you want to discover a vibrant culture? Do you want to taste delicious dishes?
If your answer is “yes”, at Greca we have several proposals of packages to Amalfi Coast, which you can modify and adapt according to your needs and time.
There are trips for all tastes, choose your adventure according to your needs!
More Travel Guides!
If you are interested in learning more about destinations like this one, we invite you to visit our Travel Guides section and plan your next adventure with Greca!
