The Amalfi Coast has always held a special place on my bucket list. With its breathtaking vistas, mouthwatering cuisine, and charming towns, it’s a destination that exceeds all expectations. If you’re planning a trip to this dreamy coastal region, look no further. In this guide, I’ll share insider tips, recommend must-visit locations, and all the info you need to make your Amalfi Coast experience unforgettable.
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GETTING TO AMALFI: OPTIONS TO SUIT EVERY TRAVELLER
Reaching the Amalfi Coast is an adventure in itself. Here are some travel options to consider:
- Private Transfer: If you prefer convenience and comfort, a private transfer is the way to go. Although it may be the pricier option at roughly €35.00 per person between four of you, it offers a seamless journey from nearby towns like Pompeii to the Amalfi Coast. Sit back, relax, and let the driver take care of everything while you soak in the scenic views. This was the option we opted for just purely for convenience since our stay was taking us to Conca dei Marini.
- Circumvesuviana Train and Ferry: For a more scenic route, take the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento or Naples, followed by a ferry ride to Amalfi. This option allows you to admire the coastal beauty from the water and is a popular choice among travellers.
- SITA Bus: If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to explore the Amalfi Coast, hop on the SITA bus. The bus route runs along the coast, offering picturesque views along the way. From Sorrento or Naples, you can catch the bus to reach Amalfi and other charming towns.
WHERE TO STAY: FIND YOUR PERFECT COASTAL RETREAT
When it comes to accommodations, the Amalfi Coast offers a range of options to suit every preference and budget. From luxury hotels perched on cliffs with stunning sea views to cozy bed and breakfasts tucked away in the narrow alleys of the towns, you’ll find a place that feels like a home away from home.
Ours was super relaxing which was the tone we wanted to set for our Amalfi Coast getaway. Based on that here are some options to consider:
- Peaceful seclusion in Conca dei Marini: For a serene escape, consider staying in Conca dei Marini. Situated between Amalfi and Positano, this hidden gem offers tranquility and breathtaking views. Booking an Airbnb or a stay through booking.com here allows you to wake up to panoramic ocean vistas and immerse yourself in the coastal charm. It’s also far cheaper but balanced with relying on transport.
- Central Delights in Positano and Amalfi: If you prefer to be at the heart of the action, Positano and Amalfi offer an array of great and affordable accommodations. From charming boutique hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, these towns provide easy access to beaches, restaurants, and shops.
GETTING AROUND: EXPLORING THE COASTLINE
Once you’ve settled into your home away from home, it’s time to explore the Amalfi Coast. Here are the main modes of transportation to help you navigate the area:
- SITA Bus: The local SITA buses offer an affordable and convenient way to travel along the coast. They connect the major towns, including Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, and provide breathtaking views along the winding coastal roads. Do keep in mind to arrive early at each stop and be prepared for some waiting time as buses can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
- Water Taxis and Ferries: For a scenic journey and a different perspective of the coastline, consider taking a water taxi or ferry. Not only does this mode of transportation offer stunning views, but it also allows you to visit neighbouring islands like Capri.
- Scooter Rental: To save time and beat the traffic, renting a scooter is a popular choice among visitors. Zip through the winding coastal roads and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace. Just be sure to prioritise safety and wear the necessary protective gear.
- Transfers and Car Taxis: If you prefer a more personalized and comfortable mode of transportation, you can arrange transfers or hire a car taxi service. These options allow you to have a dedicated driver who can take you to specific destinations, offering convenience and flexibility. It’s particularly useful if you have a large group or prefer a more private experience.
- Walking: Lace up your walking shoes and explore the Amalfi Coast on foot. The coastal towns are interconnected by a network of scenic hiking trails, such as the famous Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei), which offers breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding cliffs. Walking allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area and discover hidden gems along the way.
TOP ACTIVITIES AND HIDDEN GEMS: MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME
The Amalfi Coast is brimming with incredible experiences. Here are some activities and sights you shouldn’t miss:
- Pizza Making Class: We booked this by chance, and as my Mum had always dreamed of experiencing cooking Italian food in an authentic Italian kitchen, it was probably one of the highlights of our trip in Italy. We left the class with more than just full bellies – taking home loads of leftovers, an apron, a cookbook, and an unparalleled knowledge of Italian cuisine. If you’re interested in this culinary adventure, you can contact Vito through his restaurant, Melchiò.
- Hire a Scooter: With the Amalfi Coast’s traffic, scooters are undoubtedly one of the most preferred forms of transport. Zip through the winding roads, bypassing the backed-up cars and buses, and save valuable time. Although we didn’t have the chance to experience this mode of transportation, it is definitely at the top of the list for the next visit.
- Boat Tour around Capri: Prepare for another breathtaking experience – a boat tour around Capri. This was undeniably another major highlight of the trip. Witnessing Capri from the water is an absolute feast for the eyes, with its stunning blue hues and crystal-clear waters. For our boat tour we took the opportunity to swim all day, surrounded by the incredible beauty of the Amalfi Coast.
- Sit at the Beach and Watch the Sunset: No matter which beach you choose, taking the time to sit and watch the sunset is an experience not to be missed. Pack a bottle of wine and a cozy picnic blanket. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
- Explore the Cliff-Edge Gardens in Ravello: Delve into the enchanting cliff-edge gardens in Ravello. Two must-visit destinations are Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo. These stunning villas boast breathtaking views, rich history, and meticulously manicured gardens. Make sure to pick up the pamphlets provided at each villa, as they offer valuable insights into the gardens history and features. At Villa Cimbrone, be sure to visit The Terrace of Infinity, where you’ll see stunning panoramic views.
- Dine at a Cliff-Edge Restaurant in Positano: Escape the streets of Positano and treat yourself to a meal at one of the cliff-edge restaurants overlooking town. Whether you opt for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner, this elevated dining experience provides a moment to unwind amidst the vibrant energy of Positano.
- Embark on a Hike: If you’re an avid hiker seeking stunning views, the Amalfi Coast offers a variety of scenic trails to explore. One highly recommended hike is the trail between the towns of Sant’Agata and Nerano. Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to traverse the scenic trail between the towns of Sant’Agata and Nerano. This hike offers a perfect blend of panoramic coastal views and charming rural landscapes. As you make your way along the path, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the azure sea and dramatic cliffs. Don’t forget to pack the essentials!
- Visit the Ancient Ruins of Pompeii: A trip to the Amalfi Coast wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the nearby ancient city of Pompeii. Immerse yourself in history as you wander through the preserved ruins of this once thriving Roman city, which was buried under ash and pumice during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. If you are wanting to know more about Pompeii and how to navigate visiting this city, check out my comprehensive guide here.
- Indulge in Local Cuisine: Last but certainly not least, don’t miss the chance to indulge in the delectable local cuisine of the Amalfi Coast. From fresh seafood and traditional pasta dishes to locally grown lemons and artisanal gelato, the region offers a culinary experience for everyone. Explore the charming seaside restaurants, trattorias, and family-owned establishments. Be sure to try specialties such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams), scialatielli (a type of pasta), and sfogliatella (a delicious pastry). Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it.
BEST PLACES TO EAT
- Melchiò (Furore): This restaurant comes highly recommended! We had the pleasure of staying at one of the properties managed by Vito and his wife, Caterina, which led us to dine at Vito’s incredible restaurant. The food was unbelievably delicious, and the view of the sea and coast was unreal. We enjoyed it so much that we visited twice, so we highly recommend heading here for dinner. P.S. The lasagne was absolutely divine!
- Il Capitano (Positano): While it may require a bit of a hike from the main square with plenty of stairs (as is often the case in Positano), the view from this restaurant is truly worth it! It’s advisable to make a reservation in advance to secure a table right on the edge of the balcony.
- Il Tridente (Positano): Another restaurant with an excellent view and highly recommended food. You won’t be disappointed by the culinary delights they offer.
- L’Alternativa (Positano): This place is a must-visit for anyone craving a refreshing lemon sorbet. And to make it even more enticing, they serve it in a lemon itself! It’s an experience that you shouldn’t miss.
- The Brasserie (Positano): If you’re still on the hunt for excellent lemon sorbet, this is another great place to find it in Positano. How could you go wrong?!
HINTS AND TIPS
- When dining at a restaurant in Italy, the cost of bread and tips is usually included in the final bill. However, if you receive exceptional service, it’s customary to leave an additional tip as a thank you, even if it’s just a couple of euros.
- I highly recommended to visit the main monuments early, ideally before 8am (earlier if in summer). This allows you to enjoy the sights without the crowds and capture some amazing photos in the process.
- When booking accommodation, consider your travel companions, the duration of your stay, and your travel preferences. For longer stays and the option to cook your own meals, Airbnb is a great choice, while Booking.com is convenient for shorter stays. We found Airbnb to be more affordable for our group of four (2 beds and 2 bedrooms).
- In many citywide areas, you’ll find fresh water fountains. It’s a good idea to carry a reusable water bottle during day trips, as it’s more environmentally friendly than buying plastic bottles and saves you a few euros. The water from these fountains is fresh and safe to drink.
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases and consider downloading the Google Translate app. The app allows you to load different languages on your phone, even if you’re offline. It’s incredibly helpful if you get lost or need assistance without access to WiFi.
- Like many parts of Europe, you’ll need to pay a tourist tax in Italy. The cost varies depending on the area, so it’s worth researching beforehand to know what to expect when settling your bill at the end or beginning of your stay.
- When booking flights within Europe, Skyscanner is a reliable website that offers a wide range of options from various European airlines. It also covers buses and trains, making it convenient to compare all three transportation options.
- Prioritise researching the local cuisine before your trip to ensure you taste the best dishes. Each region in Italy has its own specialties. For example, Rome is famous for Carbonara, while Florence is renowned for its Florentine steak.
- It’s always wise to have cash on hand. While most restaurants accept cards, smaller purchases and markets often prefer cash.
- If you plan to travel between cities by train, it’s recommended to book your tickets online in advance. Omio is a user-friendly platform for comparing and booking train tickets, buses, and flights. You can access all your tickets through the app, eliminating the need to print them. Trenitalia and Italo are the main train companies in Italy, and both offer similar levels of comfort, punctuality, and friendliness, so you can’t go wrong with either.
So, whether you’re seeking adventure by hiking its breathtaking trails, relaxing by the sea, or exploring its charming towns and experiencing its history and culture, the Amalfi Coast is the perfect coastal paradise, offering a multitude of experiences.
Make sure you have plenty of time here as there are many towns with their own experiences and beauty. Until next time Amalfi..
