How to plan a trip to the Amalfi Coast: 7 of the best places to visit on your Amalfi adventure

Planning a trip to Italy’s colourful Amalfi Coast seaside towns? This guide will take you through the must see towns, activities, restaurant and places to stay. Whether you want to splash out and stay in the top hotels or looking to travel on a budget, I got you covered.

The allure of the Amalfi Coast as drawn people to the region for centuries. Its idyllic weather and dramatic landscapes dotted with breathtaking historic houses perched above the crystalline waters, making the coastline one of the most sought-after destinations in the world.

Getting to the Amalfi Coast

There are multiple ways to get to (and around) the Amalfi Coast. Naples airport is the nearest airport to the Amalfi coast, and it’s very well connected. If there are no convenient flights to Naples, you can fly to Rome and take a train from Rome to Naples. The Fast trains take just under an hour, and you can book your tickets on the Omino app or website. Make sure you look up the train times and time your flight arrival with the fast train departure. Also make sure to check which of the two Rome airports you’re flying into- Fiumicino is much closer to Roma termini (where you get the train from) than Ciampino.

By Train 

The cities of Italy are connected by an expansive high-speed rail network. Make your way to Salerno from Rome (2.5 hours), Naples (one hour), or another region. From Salerno, there’s a local train to Vietri sul Mare, the first town on the Amalfi Coast. The second leg takes only about 10 minutes.

Once you arrive in Naples or Salerno, there are a few options for getting around the Amalfi coast. We came from Scilly so we got the train from Scilly to Salerno which took 7 hours.

Getting around the Amalfi Coast

By Boat 

Ferries run along the coast between Amalfi and Salerno (30 minutes), Vietri sul Mare (45 minutes), and Sorrento (one hour). Travelmar travels between Salerno and Positano, stopping at all the main towns. From Sorrento, options include the Navigazione Libera del Golfo (NLG) and Alilauro Gruson. Alternatively, Alilauro runs a ferry service directly from Naples to Positano and Amalfi. You can book your ferries on Omio app/website.

By Car

The Amalfi Coast is one of the world’s most famous (but terrifying) road trip. The roads are windy, high up on cliff sides and incredibly narrow. The drive along the coast is spectacular but not for the faint hearted. I would highly advise AGAINST hiring a car. The first reason being the roads are insanely busy and narrow with large buses taking up most of the space on the road, leaving very little room for any cars to pass. The second reason is there is there is literally NO parking in some of the towns or places of interest and the towns that there is very limited parking, it is expensive. Unless you are travelling in winter, I would recommend hiring a scooter or taking the public transport. If you do decide to hire a car, both Salerno and Sorrento have all the major car rental companies, though local companies often offer better value. Salernorental is one known to be reliable.

Another word of warning: If you’re driving, be aware that the road is narrow in parts and full of sharp switchbacks, some of them requiring a bit of back-and-forth to get around. Note that traveling by road takes much longer than by sea — at least an hour from Positano to Amalfi, for example, compared to 25 minutes by ferry.

By Bus 

Sita Sud buses run the length of the Amalfi Coast and provide some of the cheapest transportation. Buses run between Salerno to Sorrento from 6am to 10pm. You must buy the tickets in advance in the newsagents. The bus drivers won’t let you buy a ticket on the bus. There is also a local bus that goes between Positano and Praiano that runs from 6am until midnight. It is a great option for those looking to stay close to Positano without paying the high accommodation prices. Those traveling from Rome or Naples can opt for one of the economic shuttle sharing systems, like Positano Shuttle. It’ll scoop you up straight from the airport in Rome or Naples and deliver you to your accommodation in Positano.

When to go?

Officially, the tourist season begins in early April and finishes towards the end of October. The first and last two months of the season are the best option if you want to avoid crowds or are on a smaller budget. The best time to go is shoulder season, its not too hot, but still warm enough to swim. The peak months are June, July and August. August in Europe is heaving and I recommend avoiding if posisble visting in July and August as the temperatures are high, prices sky rocket and the crowds are unbearable. If you do come then, you will need to have your trip booked well in advance. Otherwise you have a good chance of not being able to find accommodation, parking, or reservations.

May and September, start of October are the best months to visit with less traffic, lower numbers of tourist and better prcies and availability for accommocation.

Best Amalfi Coastal Towns to Visit

Salerno

Salerno is a lively seaport on the southeastern edge of the Amalfi Coast which makes a great place to start or finish your Amalfi Coast trip. Salerno is less-glitzy than the other Amalfi coast towns, not as crowded and has more affordable food and accommodation options. Salerno’s old town has a beautiful media area that definitely deserves some time to explore. Another reason why Salerno is great to start to finish your trip in as you can get the train or ferry to/from Naples. Saves you battling with the Amalfi Coast traffic.

Reasons to visit:

• Less crowded
• Exploring on foot- it is flatter than most of the other towns
• Beautiful medieval buildings
• Highly accessible. Salerno Makes a good base to explore the Amalfi coast for those short on time or on a budget. Amalfi is only 30 minutes by bus, or ferry, Positano is 50 minutes away by boat, Naples and Pompeii Ruins are only 40 minutes away by train.

Things to do:

• Visit Forte La Carnale, the Medieval Aqueduct, and Arechi Castle
• Stroll the Promenade Trieste. A lovely spot for a leisurely evening walk, Promenade Trieste is a tree-lined pedestrian path that runs parallel to Salerno’s picturesque seafront. The 1-kilometer path stretches from the city’s historic center to Piazza della Concordia, which is adjacent to the harbor.
• See Salerno Cathedral & Santa Sofia Church
• Join a free walking tour to see the sights.
• Take day tours every day to one of the other beautiful towns along the coast or visit Pompeii. The train is in the town, the bus departs along the Amalfi coast and you can take a ferry to Positano and Amalfi.

Where To Eat

• La Botte Pazza: A cosy and romantic restaurant that almost feels like eating at home.
• Vicolo della Neve: An institution in Salerno, this unassuming spot serves up delicious vegetarian, meat and fish dishes.
• Re Maurì: If you want to splash out, try this Michelin-starred restaurant with stunning views.

Where To Drink

• Voce e’ Notte : Grab an Aperol and watch the sunset at this beautiful bar, which is part of Le Fioriere hotel.
• The Black Monday speakeasy TBM: Once the sun has gone down, pop to this dark and mysterious speakeasy bar in the town. The Old Fashioned cocktail is meant to be great!

Where to stay

$: Casa Maria: Bed and breakfast at this enthusiastically reviewed hotel is just €55 per night. It’s very well located, and the rooms are simple but clean. If you want to do the Amalfi coast on a shoestring then stay here for your entire trip and see the rest of the coast by bus & boat.

$$$: Casa Santangelo Suites: Recently renovated palazzo that dates back to the 1700s. It is now a bed and breakfast in the old town. It is a beautiful building behind the wooden doors it seems time has stood still.

Ravello

Ravello is a cliffside town on the Amalfi Coast. With its villas, beautiful gardens, and extraordinary views along the coast, Ravello is one of the most enchanting towns to visit on the Amalfi Coast. The beautiful town and commune of Ravello earned a listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.  Ravello was founded in the 5th century as a shelter place against the barbarian invasions which marked the end of the Western Roman Empire. It is a really popular place for weddings, if you visit at the weekend you will most likely see one.

The drive to Ravello was one of the best parts about visiting, the roads are incredibly winding and steep as you head from Amalfi to the town. From its hillside perch, you get some of the best views along the Amalfi Coast from this town. One of the best things to do in Ravello is to visit the villas and photograph the gardens with the Amalfi Coast as a backdrop. There isn’t a ton to do here, so you don’t need long – even a day trip is enough. But it’s well worth a stop! The easiest way to reach Ravello is by bus from Amalfi or rent a scooter and drive. The drive is 15 minutes and the views are breath taking.

Things to do

• Stroll through the Piazza Centrale. Piazza Centrale is the main square of Ravello. On this square is the Duomo, cafes, shops, restaurants, an art gallery, and the entrance into Villa Rufolo.
• Visit the Dumo di Ravello. This church dates back to 1068. In 1918, Pope Benedict XV elevated the cathedral to a minor basilica. On a visit to the duomo, you can also visit the Duomo museum and an art gallery within the church.
• Stroll through the gardens at Villa Rufolo. A visit to Villa Rufolo is one of the best things to do in Ravello. When it was built in the 13th century, Villa Rufolo was one of the largest and most luxurious villas on the Amalfi Coast. It was built by a wealthy merchant and during the 14th century, banquets for kings and nobility were held here. On a visit to Villa Rufolo, you can tour the buildings of the villa, but they are rather barren on the inside. The real beauty is in the gardens. From the botanical gardens, you look out over the Amalfi Coast and the towns of Minori and Amalfi, making this one of the most beautiful viewpoints in all of the Amalfi Coast. Entrance tickets cost €8 and the villa is open daily from 9 am to 8 pm.

• Visit Villa Cimbrone. Like Villa Rufolo, a visit to Villa Cimbrone is one of the best things to do in Ravello. This villa is even older, dating back to the 11th century. Visitors to Ravello can visit the gardens, which are extraordinarily beautiful. Guests can stay in the villa, a luxury 5-star hotel, and Villa Cimbrone is a popular destination for luxury weddings and events. The highlight of Villa Cimbrone is the Infinity Terrace (Terrazza dell’Infinito). This terrace is lined with marble busts and has a stunning view out over the Amalfi Coast.

• Shop til your drop. Shop for ceramics, limoncello, art, and souvenirs around Piazza Centrale and on the streets extending off of the square.
• Visit wineries: There are some great wineries nearby which offer guided tours.

Where to eat

Babel Wine Bar Deli & Art: A casual setting with good food and wine. Great for an easy lunch.

Where to drink

Enotavola Wine Bar: A cute little wine bar with some outdoor tables, where you can get a glass of local Ravello wine and snacks.

Amalfi

The namesake town of the Amalfi coast, this is my favourite town on the coast and where we based ourselves for the longest. Amalfi is a charming and historically rich town is surrounded by breathtaking cliffs that plunge into the Mediterranean Ocean. It’s a vibrant town full of life and chaos the minute you step of a bus but I loved it from the minute we arrived. The old streets are packed, especially in the evening and there are so many hidden laneways leading to quaint restaurants. There is limoncello, gelato, Aperol on every table at every turn, and the main square with the back drop of the duomo is stunningly picturesque.

Amalfi is the largest town on the coast, and has beaches, hikes, and gorgeous sunset spots. It’s also close to many great sights and towns, so makes a good base for a longer trip.

Where To Eat

• Bar Francese is a popular bar that is right on the main square with a great view of the church. It’s got a central location, right in front of the church – but some people may find it a little busy here, and it’s a tourist trap so the prices are high.
• Trattoria De Gemma is situated above the square, with a terrace that looks out over the square and the church. They have a cover if it rains, so you can eat al fresco.

• Taverna Buon Vicino: This cute little restaurant is tucked away in the streets of Amalfi. It serves up delicious food in a romantic setting that’s both very central but also quiet.

• Lo Smeraldino: Views of boats coming and going in the heart of the port of Amalfi. If you can;t get an outdoor table don’t worry, the main indoor dining room is all windows and elegant white tabel cloths. The lemony prawn risotto is worth ordering. Fairly priced for the view and lcoation.

Where to drink

• Masaniello Art Cafe: This is a popular spot at night for cocktails. It gets busy at night, and usually has a really nice atmosphere.
• The terrace bar at the Santa Caterina Hotel has spectacular views over the port and the coast.

Where to stay

$ Il Porticciolo di Amalfi room & breakfast is a very cute bed and breakfast overlooking the port. It is a 8 minute walk from the town centre but you will have to carry your bags up a lot of steps. The breakfast is served on the roof top with great views. It’s very reasonably priced for the location.

$$$ Hotel Marina Riviera: A beautiful 4-star hotel with beautiful views. Rooms are €935 per night in summer (June) and start at €125 in low season (March).

Things to do

• Hire a boat: There are a huge number of boat companies in Amalfi, and in the early season you can pop by the booth and get a good deal on a daily rental. In high season it’s recommended to book in advance. We hired a boat and self drove with no experience driving a boat. Amalfi was one of the few ports you can hire a boat without a skipper. We hire the boat for €250 for four hours and drove up to Positano. It is where we actually got engaged, on the boat overlooking Positano. Just magical.

• Hike up to Torre dello Ziro to see the views from here.
• Relax on the beach: Right beside the town, you can head to the beach and chill out for the afternoon.

• Walk to Atrani: Explore the smallest village in Italy just steps from the bustling town of Amalfi. This small village gives you a chance for an authentic Italian experience far from the hustle and bustle of more well-known coastal towns such as Positano and Amalfi. Measuring only 0.2 square kilometers, Atrani is one of Italy’s smallest yet most enchanting villages. Its cobblestone lanes and winding pathways lead visitors to various quaint eateries offering delectable seafood dishes as well as views of the ocean like no other! Atrani has a lovely beach less busy than its neighbouring beaches.

• Visit the Amalfi Cathedral: Right in the middle of the town, you can’t miss this cathedral. You might see its stairs before you notice anything else, and its bell tower is sure to inspire a photo or two It’s definitely worth a visit! It’s only three euros to enter, and included in that fee is access to the crypts below as well as the lovely Cloister of Paradise, an Arabic-style courtyard filled with palms and other greenery.

• Take the ferry to Positano: If you decide not to stay in Positano, you can take a boat from Amalfi for a day trip.
• Shop on Ruga Nova Mercatorum: Amalfi’s main street, Ruga Nova Mercatorum, is impossible to miss. Leading up from the water and past the cathedral, this bustling street is filled with dozens of souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafés.
• Hike the Path of the Gods: The Path of the Gods, or Sentiero degli Dei, doesn’t pass through the town of Amalfi. However, as it was one of the best things I did on the Amalfi Coast, I had to include it in the list. From the town of Amalfi, you can take the bus to Bomerano (make sure to get to the bus early, as it fills up quickly). From here, you walk/hike approximately two to three hours to Nocelle, where you can either continue walking or take the bus to Positano. The hike itself is fairly easy, although there are some steep bits; you definitely want to be wearing proper hiking shoes or running shoes. I have dedicated an entire blog post to this route – it really is that unbelievably beautiful – but I highly recommend the hike for the best views of the Amalfi Coast.

Conca Dei Marini

Located about 10 kilometers from Amalfi in one direction and 10 kilometers from Positano in the other lies Conca dei Marini. It is a small authentic village stretched from the bay up to the top of the hill amongst scented lemon orchards and beautiful flowers. If you are looking for a quaint village to visit on the Amalfi Coast that’s slightly less tourist-heavy than some of the main towns and villages, look no further than Conca dei Marini. This lovely village is so small that one day will be enough to casually explore the streets, have some relaxing time on the beach, and get some sfogliatella. You can easily arrive at this quaint village by boat or by walking down almost 300 steps from the road. The difficulty of getting here means that it is quiet, chilled out and you can enjoy its stunning beauty relatively uninterrupted.

Tip: There are three restaurants at the foot of the steps, which are delicious. However there is no shop, and these restaurants don’t seem to have very consistent opening hours -so if you are an early riser or late eater, then you may go hungry. I recommend bringing some groceries to your Airbnb or apartment and ensuring that you have a fridge and simple cooking facilities. It is a beautiful spot to visit for the day. For us it was too quite to stay in but it would be perfect for those who want some peace and quiet on the Amalfi coast and who want to visit the Amalfi coast on a budget.

Where To Eat- There is only three restaurants here

• Trattoria Ippocampo –Try the spaghetti Zucchini – it’s incredible
• La Tonnerella: A little more formal than Ippocampo, with gorgeous fish dishes and a romantic setting
• Risorgimento:  Serves beautiful fish dishes right by the water!

Things to do

• Visit Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Grotto): Probably the main sight that visitors flock to Conca dei Marini for is the Emerald Grotto, a karst cave that’s been formed over millennia and has gradually become full of seawater. The ‘grotto’ gets its name from the beautiful emerald color that’s produced when the sunlight filter’s through the cave’s turquoise water. 

• Hike the the Torre Saracena: also known as the White Tower, is a 16th-century guardhouse that juts out of the village towards the sea.

• Take a boat trip to Amalfi town: There is a small kiosk next to Ippocampo where you can take a boat taxi up to Amalfi town for  €8 per person. This is a really cheap way to get a stunning Amalfi boat trip – I got the boat all to myself!
• Take a walk around the village: One of the main reasons why so many tourists flock annually to the Amalfi Coast is, of course, its stunning natural beauty. Walking along the Amalfi Coast is always a memorable experience.
• Enjoy a day on the beach in Conca dei Marini: Thanks to its coastal location, Conca dei Marini has a beach with beautiful turquoise waters. It is called Lido Capo di Conca and it is the perfect place to spend the day sunbathing or enjoying a dip in the water. If you do visit Marina di Conca, the village’s main beach, just be aware that you will need to descend quite a few stairs to get there!There are umbrellas, a restaurant, change rooms, restrooms, sun beds, a pool, and steps leading you to swim in the sea. The whole beach is actually a deck at the edge of the sea, so it is popular with those who like to jump in the deep water. Also, remember that the beach is in the shade late afternoon.

• Take a day trip: Conca dei Marini enjoys proximity to many of the coast’s other towns and villages, including popular destinations such as Amalfi and Positano. A boat taxi up to Amalfi town is just €8 per person.

Praiano

Praiano is a small town perched on the rocky cliffs of the celebrated Amalfi Coast that offers vistas of unparalleled beauty and a leisurely pace of life. Most travellers make their way to the small beaches dotting the shoreline to sunbathe with a dramatic backdrop of steep cliffs and sparkling sea.

The views are incredible whether you hike the ancient Path of the Gods trail or wander the streets and (many!) staircases of the village to find centuries-old churches and cliffside restaurants. Praiano is also a great base to explore magnificent islands, grottoes, hidden coves, and pristine beaches of the area by boat. It is just 15 minutes up the coast from Positano, it’s a much better place to stay in if you want to visit Positano as it’s quaint, cheaper and quieter and a great location for exploring towns on the coast.

This is the kind of town you can easily stay in for 4/5 days as you explore the rest of the coast. You won’t find yourself as overwhelmed with crowds, and there is a grocery store, pharmacy, and bus stop on the main street – so it’s logistically an easier spot to stay in than other towns on the coast.

Where To Eat

• Trattoria San Gennaro: This simple restaurant serves huge pizzas and aperitivo for under €20 and has stunning views of Positano and the sea. Located right beside the famous Praiano church, this is a great place to eat your first meal while you take in the sights and activity of Praiano.

• Che Bontá: For budget friendly, easy food you can grab quickly. This is right on the main street so it’s a quick pit stop while you’re exploring.

Where To Drink

• Cafe Mirante: This bar can be found en-route to La Gavitella beach in Praiano, and has stunning sunset views. Stop by and grab an aperitivo and snack on your way home from the beach, and watch the sun go down.
• Il Pirata: This is a restaurant on the beach which turns into a popular club at night.

What To Do

• Walk to the beach: There are two beaches in Praiano: La Gavitella and Marina di Praia. The latter is more ‘beachy’, and the former is quieter. You can buy beers, food, sunbeds and water when you’re down there.

• Visit the Church of San Gennaro: The Church of St. Gennaro stands grandly as the only building of baroque architecture along the Amalfi Coast. The cathedral has survived several rebuilds and renovations over the centuries. Its splendour is fully revealed inside, with intricate hand-painted majolica tiles covering its dome and terracotta floors. 

• Visit Fiordo di Furore: Hop on the bus and take the quick trip to this iconic sight on the Amalfi coast. If you managed to climb the long staircase leading down to the sea in the village of Furore, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of a hidden beach tucked way inside a huge fjord.

• Do the Path of the Gods: You can hike the Path Of The Gods from here too! A fine way to see the grandeur and beauty of the Amalfi Coast is to follow the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) – a 7-km trail that winds through the Lattari mountains between the villages of the Bomerano hamlet and Nocelle near Positano city. Getting to the Praiano section of the trail first requires a challenging climb up 1,900 steps, so be prepared to get the heart racing right away. It takes about 3 hours to hike to Nocelle, you will be rewarded with some of the most breath taking views of the Amalfi Coast and Positano.

• Visit San Luca Evangelista church & Di Santa Maria a Castro convent.
• Spend the day at One Fire Beach Club: Located in Praiano, the only spot on the Amalfi Coast with sunset views, this beach club has the added perk of sunlight until late in the day, ideal for evening cocktails and dance parties. Keep in mind, however, that this club does not actually have a beach but a platform over the water and sunbeds set on flat areas of the coastal cliffs.

Where to stay

• $ Hotel Open Gate: Cheap by Amalif Coast standards by not exactly a budget hotel, this beautiful hotel less than a minute walk from Praiano town is a perfect place to base yourself whilst exploring Praiano and Positano but also great to base yourself from here and do day trips to the other towns on the Amalfi Coast. The room we booked at a beautfiul balcony overlooking the ocean and the buffet breakfast had a great selection to stock up on before a day of exploring. There is a smaller shuttle bus running between Praiano and Positano, this stops right outside the door of the hotel so you can easily reach Positano and enjoy dinners there. The last bus is 11.20 pm back from Positano which means you can have dinner and drinks in Positano without paying a hefty taxi fare.

• $$$ Casa Angelina: This 5 star hotel is 1 minute from the beach and has a spa, pool, restaurant – and pretty much everything you would expect from a hotel which starts at €750 per night in low season (March) and goes up to €1800 in July!

Positano

Positano is charming, beautiful, full of energy – and hard on the wallet.  It’s a smallish town, and around every corner is a better view, a cuter restaurant, a nicer hotel, and boutiques with more things you want to buy. The most famous town on the Amalfi coast should never be skipped, although I wouldn’t recommend staying there overnight in high season and unless you have no budget. The streets get insanely crowded during high season and are best explored before 10 am. We stayed close by in Praiano and got the bus to Positano early to get some shots on the beach and wander around. We were the only people on the streets at 8am and it was bliss!

Positano is the most famous and iconic village on the Amalfi Coast, the spectacular strip of coastline with the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea to one side and the peaks of the Lattari Mountains to the other. Positano’s unique charms make it one of the top destinations in all of Italy for those who want to sample the country’s timeless “la dolce vita” atmosphere.

Where To Eat

• Chez Black: If you want to eat on the beach, this is a great spot. It has a wide menu of pizza & seafood, in a charming setting. You’re paying a premium for being on the beach – but this place attracts a lot of celebrities, so you might get lucky and see someone cool! If this is full, try Le Tre Sorelle which is next door.

• Da Bruno: Located at the top of the town overlooking the cliff face. No reservation needed for lunch and its reasonably priced. Book a few days in advance for dinner and request a table on the path 45 minutes before sunset. It is the same view as La Sponda and a fraction of the cost.

• La Sponda: This is not cheap, but it’s iconic. This restaurant is part of the famous Hotel Le Sirenuse, which is always splashed all over Instagram. Just take a look at the photos to see how great it is! Book well in advance.

• La Tagliata: This family run restaurant has a beautiful setting and delicious food. Well worth a visit! Booking a few days in advance is required. If you’d like something a bit different from the usual restaurants, give La Tagliata a try. It has great food and a nice dose of the local culture, something we love. There’s no set menu or wine list. Rather, you’re treated to the menu of the day made up of usually 5-6 courses of homemade local dishes, and wine is brought to your table to pair with the menu. Have your hotel make a reservation and La Tagliata will arrange for you to be picked up from any hotel in Postitano. We got the bus to Positano and got picked up from outside one of the hotels.

• Capricci: For a quick and cheap bite, head to this simple and tasty spot for lunch. It’s a great one for families, or those who want a more casual meal.

Where To Drink

• Il Tridente Cocktail Bar: This swish cocktail bar is poolside and seafront, so you have great views in a stunning location.
• Da Ferdinando: A gorgeous place for an aperitivo – or food!
• Fly Lounge Bar: A romantic rooftop bar – think candles, piano and romance.
• Music On The Rocks: If you’re after late night drinks or dancing, head here for some fun.

Where to stay

We didn’t stay in Positano but if I win the lotto I will come back and stay in either of these two places:

Villa Rosa: The suite has panoramic views of the sea, and breakfast is served on the terrace.

Le Sirenuse: This iconic hotel is possibly the most famous luxury accommodation in Positano. The style and service touches everything from the lovely suites with jaw-dropping views — possibly the best views in Positano — to the delectable food served at their Michelin-star restaurant, La Sponda. It doesn’t get much better. Prices start at €1950 in low season per night.

Things to do

• Hike The Path Of The Gods. Hiking in Positano may not seem like an activity you’d expect to find on the Amalfi Coast. But if you came for the spectacular scenery, then hiking Il Sentiero degli Dei is one of the most remarkable things you can do. You can walk to Nocelle and hike to Bomerano or Praiano from here and take the SITA bus back to Positano from Praiano. You can buy bus tickets in tobacco shops, at news stands, and some bars but they are not sold on the bus.

• Hire a Vespa to explore the coastline: If you’re comfortable driving scooters, mopeds, or small motorbikes, rent the classic Italian mode of transportation and see the coast on a Vespa.

• Visit The Church Of Santa Maria Assunta: The centerpiece of Positano is undoubtedly the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its beautiful Moorish tiled dome.

• Book a sunset boat tour. Blue Star Boat Tours offers fun and reliable small group tours of the Amalfi Coast for 8-12 people. No matter which, seeing and photographing the coast from the water and visiting other coastal towns should be in your plans. Make your reservations in advance.

• Hike To Montepertuso. Montepertuso is a hamlet in the town of Positano, on a hill in the upper part of town. The name literally means “hole in the mountain”, which refers to the ginormous rock structure you’ll see.
• Take the ferry to Capri for a day trip. The island of Capri is one of our favorite destinations and there’s a lot to see and do. Known for its beauty, history, and incredible restaurants, it’s an easy day trip from Positano. The ferry takes about 30 minutes. I have dedicated a separate blog post to Capri and it is one fo the most beautiful places on earth, you could easily spend a week there so I would not recommend doing a day trip but if you can’t afford to dedicate any more than a day to Capri, it is still worth visiting.
• Wander the streets. Positano is a shopper’s dream, given the variety of interesting and beautiful things available here, both made locally and around the world. Go early to avoid the day tour crowds.
• Visit a Arienzo Beach Club. Arienzo Beach is another small beach that is sometimes called ‘300 steps’ beach as There are 300 steep steps down to the beach, but along the way down there are great views of the Amalfi Coast. The Arienzo Beach Club provides a free boat shuttle from the marina pier in Positano every morning from 9.50am and returning from 3.15pm. There are both private and free sections to this beach, but you’ll want to rent a sun lounger and maybe an umbrella. Packages start from €350 for two people for the day which includes a bottle of wine, a starter, a main course, sunbed, towel, umbrella and water.

• Spiaggia Grande Beach. Spiaggia Grande Beach is the main beach in Positano, and is also known as Marina Grande Beach, or simply Positano beach — and it’s considered one of the best on the Amalfi Coast. This popular beach has both free and private areas and can get pretty crowded. The entire cliffside town can be viewed from here. Go first thing in the morning to have the beach to yourself or late at night to see the cliff face light up.

Sorrento

While it’s not officially on the Amalfi coast (it’s on the Sorrentine Peninsula), Sorrento is the first major town between Naples and the Amalfi coast, so it’s the first stop on many travellers’ Amalfi Road Trip.

Sorrento has been one of the most popular destinations in Italy. With picturesquely soaring cliffs above the waters of the Mediterranean, a vibrant old town chock-full of shops and restaurants, and a strategic position between Mount Vesuvius and the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento has attracted thousands, if not millions, of tourists every year for over a century. This historic resort town is often chosen as a base to visit all the A-list sights in the surrounding area, from the Amalfi Coast towns  to the island of Capri and Ischia. Sorrento is a convenient jumping-off point for boat tours to Italy’s Amalfi Coast or the Isle of Capri, as well as sightseeing day trips along the coastal roads. To travel between Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, you can take the Sita bus or a ferry. Sorrento is also relatively well-connected to both Rome and Salerno by public transport for those arriving from farther afield.

A small and charming town, Sorrento has a lot to offer travellers looking for ‘La dolce vita’. Its winding lanes, cute courtyards and incredible restaurants make for a gorgeous few days, plus exploring on foot is much easier as most of the place is relatively flat. This town doesn’t have the instant impact of Positano, but you can ramble around here for a few days and easily fall in love.

Where To Eat

• O’Parrucchiano La Favorita: calls itself “a museum restaurant.” But don’t get the wrong idea, there’s nothing stuffy or “old” about this incredible restaurant. Situated in the heart of Sorrento, this restaurant first began its life in 1868 when a Catholic student transformed two of the rooms here after the local archbishop taught him to cook. Ask for a table amongst the lemon trees. Book ahead, it gets busy!

• La Cantinaccia del Popolo is a small and very rustic-looking restaurant. On the inside, it seems to be a deli with tables, and that’s partly what it is. Cured meat hangs from the ceiling and there are glass display coolers with meats, salads, olives, and cakes that are available to order for dining in or take away. It’s not about the decor here, just about the food. The restaurant is so small, so there are always queues. The restaurant doesn’t take bookings, you simply turn up and wait for a table. Lines begin at 6:45 p.m. for a 7 p.m. opening. So if you want a table, prepare to stand and wait your turn. It really is worth the wait.
• Trattoria Emilia: Perfectly positioned by the sea with a view of the marina. This is traditional Italian fare in a beautiful setting. If you want to sit out on the terrace, as many people do, you will most likely face a bit of a queue. It is walk ins only, you can’t book in advance.
• Piennolo Landfood is a quirky little restaurant with great food and a fun atmosphere tucked away down a back street. The host here likes to welcome guests and is generally the life and soul of the party. The food here is incredibly good and reasonably priced too.
• Sedil Dominova: If atmosphere is what you’re after, then pop this into Google Maps and head to this lively square for dinner or drinks. There is usually live music and multiple restaurants, so there tends to be a bit of a buzz here. It serves classic Italian food, and while it probably won’t be the best meal of your trip – you will have fun!
• If you’re on a budget, head to Ahum for pizza. This pizzeria is owned by Antonino Esposito, a celebrity pizzaiolo who often appears on Italian television, and is often considered the best pizza in Sorrento.

Where To Drink

• Bar Nonna Emilia is right beside Da Emilia (above) and a great place for an afternoon Spritz. Sit at tiny tables overlooking the sea and enjoy a drink while you people watch and take in the atmosphere. It’s a bit of a walk from the main town, but very much worth it.
• Kiosk Bar: If you are a little tired of paying €15 for a drink, pop to Kiosk bar to grab a more reasonably priced beer or Spritz. Kiosk is literally a small kiosk which serves drinks and food to the plastic tables outside. It sounds a little basic, but the atmosphere can be great here as people drink and chat through the night.
• Hotel Bellevue Syrene: This is a really fancy hotel, with great views over the sea and the beaches of Sorrento. The terrace is stunning to sit and watch the sun set. Definitely recommend! They bring you free snacks with your drink, so you can save money on food.

What To Do

• Wander through the lanes of the Historic Center of Sorrento: A great starting point is Fauno bar, and then turn left down Via Sant Antonio to start exploring.
• You first point of call should be Villa Comunale. T
• Relax in Piazza Tasso. Piazza Tasso is Sorrento’s main square and the place to go for aperitivo and people watching. The piazza commemorates Torquato Tasso, a prolific 16th century poet born in the city. Ask for an outside table at Bar Fauno for the best views of the goings on in the square.
• Walk to Marina Grande and Marina Piccola for seaside charm. It’s an easy fifteen minute walk down to the fishing village of Marina Grande from Villa Communale. Sorrento’s fishing port has a charming village atmosphere with colorful boats and restaurants overlooking the sea. Go in the morning to see the catch of the day unloaded by the local fishermen. Or make a plan for lunch or dinner to try tasty dishes straight from the sea.
• Swim in the bay. Not beaches as such, but perfect spots for summer dips. Being a city on cliffs, Sorrento doesn’t have beaches as such, but there’s still plenty of places to cool off down by the waterfront. Take the steep road down to the harbour from Piazza Tasso where you’ll find a few piers that are just the ticket for jumping off or sunbathing. Most of them are owned by hotels, so you might have to buy a drink or fork out a few Euros for a sun lounger, but it’s worth it when you’re down there.
• Visit the Cloister of San Francesco.
• Take a Ferry to Capri. You can find the timetable here. The ferry takes 20 minutes to one of Italy’s most beautiful islands. This beauty doesn’t come cheap and Capri can be more expensive for accommodation and food than the mainland. You can go on a day trip from Sorrento but I highly recommend give this beautiful island a few days to explore.

• Watch the sunset from Villa Comunale. This lovely park with manicured gardens and floral displays is known for stunning views over the Bay of Naples with Mount Vesuvius looming in the background. From the park, you can also walk or take the lift down to the port known as Marina Piccola.
• Eat Gelato at Gelateria Davide – the best gelato in Sorrento which is a family-run institution with the gelato skills passed down three generations. You’ll have a hard time choosing with over 30 flavours to pick from including tangy mulberry, ricotta, prosecco, classic pistachio, and sweet local lemon.

Budget / Mid-Range Accommodation

• House Matilde: This is a budget-friendly and simple option just outside the town, but walking distance away so you don’t need a car. Private rooms are €50 per night
• Casa Dominova de Luxe: If you are looking for something modern and cute, this hotel is just 2 minutes from the beach and rooms are €90 per night.
• Palazzo Marziale: Located in the historical center, this is in an excellent location for exploring on foot. Double rooms are €90 per night.
• Maison Il Conservatorio is very well located, and offers double rooms from €100 per night. It’s just 2 minutes from the beach.
• Maison Bon Bon: If you want to stay outside the town (you will need a car), and get more for your money – this hotel has double rooms for €130 per night.

Splurge Accommodation

• Hotel Lorelei Londres: A stunning hotel with jaw-dropping views, rooms are €200 per night.
• Bellevue Syrene: This beautiful hotel is centrally located, 1 minute from the beach and costs from €400 per night.

Capri

Technically not on the Amalfi Coast, but it is a must visit when in the area I had to include it. Capri is one of the most beautiful islands in Italy, just a 20-minute ferry ride from Sorrento, Capri is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Live the high life and get yourself over to glamorous Capri. It’s worth the trip for the glistening waters, towering cliffs, and sleepy laid-back vibe. Take the chairlift up to the summit of the island for the most amazing views of the bay.

You can stay overnight on Capri in one of the many five-star hotels, but if you’re on a budget, just do a day trip and go there and back from Sorrento, Naples and Postinano in a day. It gets so crowded in summer with all the cruise ships and day tripper that to fully appreciate the beauty of the island without the crowds, stay for 3-4 days and explore the different areas such as Capri town, the Mariana and Anacapri. I have written a blog here on everything you need to know about planning a trip to Capri.

I hope you enjoyed this post! If you have any other tips for travelling around the Amalif Coast then comment below and let other readers know!

Thanks for reading,

Sari x