It’s all packed into a 50-kilometre stretch of coastline in Southern Italy that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Here are my top picks for things to see and do along the Amalfi Coast.

1. Positano – The Coast’s Most Photographed Town

Let’s start with the town you’ve already seen hundreds of photos of. Positano is the iconic cliff town where colourful houses cascade down towards the sea like a living mosaic. And yes, it lives up to the pictures. The only problem is that everyone else knows it too.

Positano is built vertically. That means stairs. Lots and lots of stairs. Wear good shoes and take it easy. Walk from the top of town down towards Spiaggia Grande (the main beach) and enjoy the views along the way. Pop into Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta with its beautiful majolica dome. Shop for handmade sandals (the town’s speciality) in the small boutiques along Via dei Mulini. And sit down with an Aperol Spritz at one of the beach bars while gazing out at the sea.

My honest advice: come early in the morning or late in the afternoon. In the middle of the day during peak season, it’s a battle for space. And never park in Positano itself – it’s a nightmare. Take the SITA bus or the ferry from Amalfi instead.

2. Amalfi Town and the Duomo di Sant’Andrea

The town that gave the entire coast its name was once one of Italy’s four powerful maritime republics. Today Amalfi is a charming little coastal community with an absolutely incredible cathedral at its centre. The Duomo di Sant’Andrea sits atop a monumental staircase of 62 steps, and the facade is a mix of Arab-Norman, Byzantine and Baroque styles unlike anything else in Italy.

The cathedral itself can often be entered for free during mass. But for the full Monumental Complex – including the Cloister of Paradise (Chiostro del Paradiso), the crypt with St. Andrew’s relics and the Basilica del Crocifisso – tickets cost €4. It’s worth the money. The Cloister of Paradise is a quiet oasis with Moorish columns and medieval sarcophagi, and the crypt is surprisingly beautiful with gilded ceilings.

• Opening hours: March-June 09:00-18:45, July-September 09:00-19:45, November-February 10:00-13:00 and 14:30-16:30.

Piazza del Duomo below is perfect for an espresso while gazing up at the cathedral. Do take a walk through the narrow alleyways behind it, where the tourists disappear and local life takes over.

3. Ravello – The Garden Above the Clouds

Ravello sits 350 metres above the sea, and it feels as though you’re floating above the entire coast. While Positano and Amalfi are tightly packed tourist towns, Ravello is calm, elegant and filled with an almost magical atmosphere.

The town has attracted artists and musicians for centuries – Richard Wagner completed the second act of Parsifal here, and there’s still a major classical music festival every summer.

The two big experiences are Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone. Villa Rufolo (€8, opens at 09:00) has beautiful gardens overlooking the bay and is the setting for the Ravello Festival’s summer outdoor concerts. Villa Cimbrone (€7, 09:00 until sunset) is the one that takes your breath away, though.

Walk through the Avenue of Eternity (Viale dell’Immenso) and out to the Terrazza dell’Infinito – a terrace with antique busts where the horizon simply vanishes into a blue nothingness. It’s arguably the most beautiful view on the entire Amalfi Coast.

You can reach Ravello by bus from Amalfi in about 25 minutes. There’s no reason to hire a car – parking is limited and expensive.

I’ve also mentioned Ravello in my full guide on where to stay on the Amalfi Coast.

4. The Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei)

If you only do one active thing on the Amalfi Coast, make it this hike. Sentiero degli Dei is a 6.5-kilometre trail that runs along the cliff edge 500 metres above the sea from the village of Bomerano to Nocelle. The views are utterly absurd. You can see the entire coast, the island of Capri in the distance, and the colourful towns down by the water look like toys.

The route from Bomerano to Nocelle is primarily downhill and takes 2-3 hours for most people. The path is well marked (follow the signs with “02”), but it’s uneven and has sections without railings close to the cliff edge, so it’s not ideal for those with a fear of heights. Take SITA bus line 5020 from Amalfi to Bomerano to start. In Nocelle you can take a local bus down to Positano or walk the famous 1,500 steps down to the beach.

Best time: April-May or September-October. In summer it’s scorching hot and the path is overcrowded. Start early in the morning regardless, and bring plenty of water. There’s no shade on large parts of the route.

Check out my guide on where to stay on the Amalfi Coast here:

5. Boat Trip Along the Coast

The Amalfi Coast was built to be seen from the sea. From land you see beautiful towns and dramatic cliffs. From the water you see caves, hidden beaches, natural rock arches and a coastline that’s even more overwhelming than you thought. A boat trip is probably the most popular experience on the entire coast, and with good reason.

Most trips depart from Amalfi or Positano and last 4-6 hours. You sail past Conca dei Marini, the Fjord of Furore (Italy’s only natural fjord), Praiano and various secret caves. There are stops for snorkelling and swimming at beaches you can only reach by boat.

This boat trip with snorkelling from Amalfi sails in a traditional gozzo boat with a maximum of 10 guests and includes prosecco, limoncello and fruit.

A shared boat trip typically costs from €50-80 per person. Private charter is more expensive (€400+), but you decide the route yourself. Always book in advance during peak season.

6. Grotta dello Smeraldo (The Emerald Grotto)

Capri’s Blue Grotto steals all the attention, but the Emerald Grotto at Conca dei Marini is just as spectacular – and far less crowded. Here sunlight enters through an underwater opening and colours everything in a surreal emerald-green glow. The effect is almost supernatural.

The cave was only discovered in 1932. On the bottom of the crystal-clear water you can see an underwater nativity scene in ceramics, placed there by local divers. Entry costs approximately €5-7 per person. You can reach the grotto by lift or stairs from the coastal road (SS163), or as a stop on a boat trip. The boat trip is by far the best way to experience it – you sail directly into the grotto in a small rowing boat.

• Note: the grotto may be closed in rough seas. Check with local operators on the day itself.

7. Atrani – One of Italy’s Smallest Municipalities

Here’s a secret that surprisingly few tourists know about: just five minutes’ walk from Amalfi town lies Atrani, one of Italy’s smallest municipalities. It’s the kind of place where you turn a corner, walk under an arch, and suddenly you’re standing in a small piazza with a beach, a Byzantine church and a handful of cafes.

Atrani has no major attractions. That’s the point. Here locals sit on benches and chat, children play football in the square, and there are almost no tourists. The beach is small but charming, and Chiesa di San Salvatore de Birecto (from 940 AD) is worth a visit for its historical significance – this is where doges of the Amalfi Republic were crowned.

Grab a beer at one of the beach bars and enjoy the feeling of having found a place that tourism has forgotten.

Travelling around Italy? Also read the full guide to the best things to do in Rome.

8. Lemon Experiences and Limoncello Tasting

Lemons are the Amalfi Coast’s unofficial symbol. They’re everywhere – in the gardens, on the postcards, in the food and of course in the famous limoncello. And these aren’t just ordinary lemons. The Sfusato Amalfitano lemon is enormous, aromatic and has a sweeter peel than most lemons you know.

You can visit a lemon grove (limonaia) and learn about the cultivation, taste freshly squeezed lemon lemonade and see how limoncello is made. Several places also offer cooking classes where you use lemons in everything from pasta to cakes. It’s one of those experiences you can only have here – and it tastes completely different from the bottle of limoncello you can buy in the supermarket back home.

Also try delizia al limone (lemon cake) and sfogliatella Santa Rosa, a local variant of the famous Neapolitan pastry that was invented by nuns at the Santa Rosa convent in Conca dei Marini.

9. Fiordo di Furore

This is one of those places that looks photoshopped but is actually real. Fiordo di Furore is Italy’s only natural fjord – a dramatic gorge where the cliffs rise vertically on both sides, and a small bridge crosses 28 metres above the water. Every July, professional divers jump from the bridge during the international MarMeeting diving competition.

Down at the bottom of the fjord there’s a tiny beach (one of Amalfi’s most Instagrammed), which you can reach via a narrow path from the coastal road. The beach is tiny and fills up quickly, so come early. Most people see the fjord best from the water during a boat trip, where you can sail right in and admire the wild rock formations.

Furore is also an interesting little village in itself. The houses are scattered across the cliffs, and the town calls itself “the village that doesn’t exist” (il paese che non c’è), because there’s no actual town centre.

10. Praiano – The Quiet Alternative

If Positano is too busy and Amalfi too touristy, Praiano is your spot. The small town sits between the two and has a relaxed atmosphere that the rest of the coast has lost. There are no souvenir shops lined up in rows. Instead you’ll find local bakeries, a beautiful cliff-top church and some of the coast’s best sunsets.

Marina di Praia is Praiano’s little beach – a cosy cove surrounded by old fishermen’s houses and cliff walls. It’s far less chaotic than the beaches in Positano. In the evening, Africana opens – a legendary nightclub built into a sea cave that has existed since the 1960s. Even if you’re not into nightclubs, it’s worth stopping by just to see the place.

Praiano is also the starting point for an alternative route up to the Path of the Gods, if you want to avoid the busiest starting village of Bomerano.

11. Food on the Amalfi Coast

Forget counting calories. The food here is an experience in itself, and it’s far more varied than most people imagine. The Amalfi Coast is one of those places in the world where you simply have to eat local. The key dishes you need to try:

Scialatielli ai frutti di mare – fresh, thick pasta ribbons with seafood. It’s the coast’s signature pasta, invented in Amalfi. Frittura di paranza – a mix of small deep-fried fish served in a paper cone. Perfect as street food. Melanzane alla parmigiana – aubergine with tomato and Parmesan that tastes completely different here than in the rest of Italy. And for dessert: delizia al limone, an airy lemon cake with cream filling.

Never eat at the first restaurant you see by the harbour. Walk a couple of streets up – the prices drop and the quality rises.

In Amalfi town, the area around Piazza dei Dogi is a good place to start. In Positano you need to head up to the higher streets to find the local favourites.

12. Day Trip to Capri

Capri is just 30-40 minutes by boat from the Amalfi Coast and makes the perfect day trip. The island is famous for its dramatic rock formations (the Faraglioni rocks), the exclusive shopping street Via Camerelle, and of course the legendary Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), where the sea glows neon blue.

You can take the ferry from Amalfi or Positano (€15-25 each way, depending on route and company). Or even better: combine it with a boat trip where you sail along the coast and around Capri.

This full-day boat trip from Amalfi to Capri includes snorkelling, drinks and three hours of free time on the island.

Tip: the Blue Grotto can have up to three hours’ waiting time in peak season. Consider visiting it on your own via local ferry companies that offer quicker access, rather than as part of a group tour.

13. Day Trip to Pompeii

Okay, technically Pompeii isn’t on the Amalfi Coast. But it’s close enough that it would be silly not to go. The ancient Roman city, buried under volcanic ash from Vesuvius in 79 AD, is one of the world’s most fascinating archaeological excavations. You can walk on the original streets, see intact frescoes, visit a 2,000-year-old brothel and stand in the enormous amphitheatre.

From Amalfi it takes about an hour by car. You can also take the SITA bus to Salerno and then the train to Pompeii. A guided tour is strongly recommended – the excavation site is enormous, and without a guide you’ll miss the stories behind what you’re seeing.

• Entry tickets cost €18 for adults. Allow at least 2-3 hours for the visit.

Alternatively you can visit Herculaneum (Ercolano), which is smaller but better preserved than Pompeii. It’s closer to the Amalfi Coast and far less crowded.

Also check out my guide on where to stay in Naples if you’re considering staying a bit closer to Pompeii or simply want to take in everything this part of Italy has to offer.

14. Valle delle Ferriere – The Jungle Behind Amalfi

This is one of the Amalfi Coast’s best-kept secrets. Just a couple of kilometres behind Amalfi town lies Valle delle Ferriere, a nature reserve that feels like a tropical jungle in the middle of Southern Italy. Waterfalls, giant ferns, rare orchids and ruins of old ironworks from the Middle Ages. It’s completely surreal.

The reserve is home to Woodwardia radicans, a rare fern normally only found in the tropics. It survives here thanks to the constant humidity from the streams. The hike from Amalfi town takes about 1.5 hours each way and is moderate in difficulty. Entry to the protected area costs a couple of euros. Wear waterproof shoes – the path can be muddy.

It’s the perfect contrast to a day at the beach and an experience that 95% of tourists don’t know about.

15. Vietri sul Mare – The City of Ceramics

The Amalfi Coast’s eastern gateway is Vietri sul Mare, a small town that has been Italy’s ceramics capital for centuries. Everywhere you look you’ll see colourful, hand-painted tiles – on facades, staircases, signs and of course in the countless ceramics shops and workshops.

It’s an excellent place to buy souvenirs that are actually worth taking home. Hand-painted tiles, plates, vases and decorative items in the characteristic yellow, blue and green Vietri pattern. Prices are significantly lower than in Positano and Amalfi. Visit the Museo della Ceramica to understand the history of the tradition, and take a walk down to Marina di Vietri – a cosy beach popular with locals.

Vietri is easy to reach from Salerno (10 minutes by bus) and is the natural first or last stop on a trip along the coast.

16. Cooking Class

Making Italian food with a local chef is one of those experiences that truly sticks with you. Most classes last 3-4 hours and include a visit to the local market (or a lemon grove), preparation of 2-3 dishes and of course eating it all afterwards with a glass of local wine.

You’ll learn to make fresh pasta, work with local ingredients and understand why Italian cooking is more about respect for the produce than complicated techniques. Classes are available in almost every town along the coast. Ravello and Amalfi have particularly good options. Expect to pay €70-120 per person all inclusive.

Check out the selection of cooking classes here.

It’s also an excellent activity if the weather isn’t playing along – and it does actually rain quite a bit on the Amalfi Coast outside of peak season.

17. Sorrento as a Base

Sorrento isn’t technically on the Amalfi Coast, but most people use the town as a base, and there are good reasons for that. The town has better transport connections than anywhere on the coast itself.

From here you can take the Circumvesuviana train to Naples and Pompeii, the ferry to Capri and Ischia, and the SITA bus to the Amalfi Coast.

Sorrento is also cheaper than Positano and Amalfi, and it has a charming old town with good restaurants and shopping. Piazza Tasso is the town’s heart, and from here you can walk down to Marina Grande, the old fishing quarter with colourful houses and excellent fish restaurants. Also visit the beautiful Cloister at the Church of San Francesco – it’s free and surprisingly peaceful in the middle of town.

If you want to stay centrally with good connections to the entire coast, check out the hotels in Sorrento. The location is hard to beat as a base for the entire [Amalfi Coast].

Practical Tips for the Amalfi Coast

When should you go? April-June and September-October are the best months. The weather is warm, prices are lower than peak season, and there are significantly fewer tourists. July-August is a proper battle – overcrowded beaches, doubled prices and temperatures above 35 degrees. November-March is low season with cheap prices, but many things are closed and the weather is unpredictable.

How do you get around? The SITA buses are cheap (€2-4 per trip) but can be overcrowded in peak season – and there are people who literally can’t get on. The ferries (Travelmar and others) run from April to October and are fantastic but expensive. Never hire a car unless you have nerves of steel. Parking is impossible and costs €30-50 per day. Use the SITA Sud website to check bus timetables.

Where should you stay? It depends on your budget and priorities. Positano is beautiful but expensive. Amalfi is central and practical. Ravello is calm and romantic. Sorrento is the cheapest and has the best transport connections. Praiano and Atrani are the best options for a more local experience. Compare hotels in Amalfi here.

Budget: The Amalfi Coast isn’t cheap. A meal for two with wine easily costs €60-100 at an average restaurant. A sun lounger and parasol on the beach costs €15-25 per person per day. Plan your budget accordingly – and do walk a bit away from the waterfront to save significantly.

If you have any questions about your trip to the Amalfi Coast, leave a comment and I’ll do my best to help

The post 17 Best Things to Do on the Amalfi Coast – Top Sights & Hidden Gems 🍋 appeared first on Destination Well Known.

The Amalfi Coast is a fantastic place, but what the influencers don’t tell you is that it’s also extremely crowded and (can be) very expensive.

I’ve just returned home after a week in Italy, where the trip’s main destination was the Amalfi Coast.

We flew to Fiumicino Airport in Rome, took the train directly to Naples, where we spent the night, and then went to the Amalfi Coast.

Below I will share my personal experiences with the different areas and towns on the Amalfi Coast to answer questions quickly: where to stay on the Amalfi Coast?

Best areas on the Amalfi Coast

If you’re in a rush or just want a quick overview, here are the best areas to stay on the Amalfi Coast:

• Amalfi Town – best all-round area to stay
• Positano – the most picturesque town
• Sorrento – my favourite town in the area
• Ravello – good area for cheaper accommodation (if you rent a car )
• Maiori & Minori – best place to stay with children

Click on the area name above to see the best hotels & deals.

The guide on where to stay on the Amalfi Coast continues below.

1 . Amalfi – truly the best place to stay on the Amalfi Coast

The town of Amalfi has given its name to the holiday area Amalfi Coast, so it is natural to start your research by looking at the main town.

I did the same when I had to find out where we would stay on our trip a few months ago.

I quickly learned that driving a car on the Amalfi Coast can be a decidedly stressful affair. Many advise against renting a car but instead take buses and ferries.

I found this video on Youtube and then decided that we had to make do with ferries

That’s why I chose to look for a place to stay in Amalfi town since from here you can quickly get around to the rest of the coast – and at the same time, the city is packed with restaurants and shops, so I thought it would be an exciting place to stay on our holiday.

And do you know what? I was right – even my girlfriend agreed with me after our trip

See the best-rated hotels in Amalfi here.

Transport to Amalfi is convenient

We got to Amalfi by ferry from Sorrento in about 2 hours (I’ll get back to Sorrento later in the guide, by the way, what a revelation that town was) and took a ferry on a day trip to Positano (20 min).

When we had to continue north to Rome, we took the ferry to Salerno in 40 minutes, from where you can walk to the central train station in 5 minutes.

Logistically, Amalfi is simply the perfect city to stay in on the Amalfi Coast.

You can get to Amalfi town by ferry, car, public bus and of course taxis.

Is Amalfi town worth it?

We traveled from Sorrento to Amalfi by ferry where you arrive at the port, a few minutes walk from the main town square, Piazza Duomo.

Here we were met by the owner of the apartment we had booked (more on that later) and walked along the main street to our apartment.

There is only one main street in Amalfi, and it is mainly where you find restaurants, ice cream bars, cafes, and shops.

I could imagine that many on a day trip to Amalfi do not go further than the cathedral, the main street, and the waterfront.

We stayed about 10 minutes’ walk from the cathedral, which was enough to get away from the (very) touristy main street, which tells you a little about the fact that Amalfi is actually quite a small town.

I loved sitting on the steps up to the cathedral and enjoying a beer and people-watching at 8 pm when the sun went down.

We stayed in Amalfi for three nights which was just right: one day of arrival, one day on the beach, and one day of excursion to Positano, and then we travelled by ferry to Salerno and went to Rome.

More days in Amalfi would probably have become a bit boring – it’s a surprisingly small town, and you have to be careful when choosing a restaurant since this is one of the most touristic areas of Italy, so the prices have been turned up and the quality down, if you don’t think about it.

Check out my video guide on where to stay on the Amalfi Coast here:

Places to stay in Amalfi

So Amalfi may not be a big city, but tourists still flock here from all over the world. This means that there is competition for hotels and holiday apartments.

This also increases the price for an overnight stay, and I have to admit that I was surprised by just how expensive it is to stay in Amalfi.

The hotels were either fully booked or cost hundreds of dollars per night for basic rooms.

So I’d definitely recommend that you book your accommodation on the Amalfi Coast as soon as possible.

See the 10 best hotels in Amalfi here.

I myself was out a few months before we traveled to Amalfi in June and there were plenty of options at good prices, but when we decided not to rent a car it narrowed down.

When you don’t have a car, you naturally either have to be ready to take the bus a lot or stay centrally in one of the towns on the Amalfi Coast.

Cheap accommodation in Amalfi (which isn’t easy to find)

I found a holiday apartment 10 minutes walk from the cathedral, which was almost too good to be true, at a price of around 150 USD per night, which looked very cheap.

However, the place had good reviews from previous guests, so I thought that you must also have a bit of luck as a travel planner

It also turned out to be a perfect apartment, and after a few days in hotels in Naples and Sorrento, it was amazing to have a whole apartment with a kitchen, living room, and bedroom.

My only complaint about the apartment is that there might have been a few kitchen utensils missing, so if we had actually wanted to cook something other than eggs for breakfast, then we would probably have come up a little short.

But when you are in Italy, and there is an excellent pizzeria with the option of takeaway 5 minutes away, it’s not a problem

See more photos of the place and book online here.

Let’s explore a few other hotels in Amalfi in different price ranges.

The Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel offers an unparalleled luxury experience.

This hotel masterfully captures the region’s essence, seamlessly combining Amalfi’s rich history with top-tier amenities.

Guests are treated to breathtaking sea views, making morning awakenings a delight. Its prime location allows easy exploration of the town’s narrow, picturesque streets and local attractions.

The rooms are elegantly designed, ensuring the utmost comfort after a day of touring. For those seeking a refined stay in Amalfi, this hotel stands out as one of the finest choices.

See more photos and book here.

Just as you thought Amalfi couldn’t get any dreamier, the Hotel Marina Riviera comes along.

Perched high, it gifts its guests with panoramic views of the coastline.

The rooms are tastefully adorned, resonating with the vibrant charm of Amalfi itself. Walking through its corridors feels like a gentle stroll through Amalfi’s history but with all the comforts of today.

See more photos and book here.

Terrazza Duomo undoubtedly holds one of the most coveted spots in Amalfi town.

Just steps away from the famous Amalfi Cathedral, this hotel ensures you’re right in the thick of things while still offering a peaceful retreat.

Many guests cannot stop talking about how they could almost touch the Duomo from their balconies.

The cosy ambience of the rooms, combined with modern amenities, makes for a comfortable stay.

See more photos and book here.

Also, check out my guide on the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast when you’ve picked your place to stay.

2. Positano – the most picturesque place to stay on the Amalfi coast

The next area on the Amalfi Coast is, of course, Positano.

Before the trip, I started looking for hotels in Positano, as I thought it was the best place to stay on the Amalfi Coast.

Accommodation in Positano is not cheap!

However, the prices turned out insane (I couldn’t find anything under 1000 USD per night), and the idea was quickly shelved.

I was happy about that, as I also read and experienced that Amalfi has more to offer when you have to be there for several days.

That being said, Positano is truly something special and worth a visit.

It is a different experience than Amalfi, as Positano is smaller and more or less only has narrow streets of a meter or two, where there is no room for either cars or scooters.

On the other hand, the streets are filled with souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants and… really, really many one-day tourists who come to Positano to experience the place they have seen so often from home on Instagram and Youtube

As previously mentioned, we took the ferry from Amalfi to Positano, which only took 20 minutes Positano Jet, and found a restaurant from which we could sit and have a view of the entire bay.

On Google Maps, it was only a 10-minute walk from the pier, but it turned out that you arrive at the beach in Positano, and then there is almost nowhere in the city where you don’t have to go uphill.

So it took a little longer, but in return, we got to go through all the small streets – which you can do incredibly quickly.

To be honest, it felt a bit weird to rush through one of the most sought-after places in Europe in 10 minutes.

Positano is small and beautiful

Like Amalfi, Positano is a very small town.

I must admit that I left Positano a little disappointed…

I don’t know what I expected, but it was simply too touristy for my taste.

It was great to spend a few hours in Positano because it’s an insanely beautiful city, but it’s most beautiful when you get there by boat. You can’t see the beautiful backdrop when you’re in the small streets, obviosuly

If you want to stay in Positano at a price worth paying and get a good experience, you must come outside the high season in the summer months.

This probably applies to the entire Amalfi Coast, but even more so to Positano as it is tiny!

See if you can find any good hotel deals in Positano here.

Places to stay in Positano

As previously mentioned, Positano hotels are less budget-friendly than other areas on the Amalfi Coast. But I’ve tried to find a few lovely places to stay in different price ranges – let’s start with the most luxurious.

In the heart of Positano lies the elegant Hotel Palazzo Murat, a luxury haven that perfectly blends historical charm with contemporary comfort.

What sets this place apart, besides its rich history, is its prime location.

Guests are often thrilled at how everything – from the beach to the boutiques – is just a short stroll away.

Yet, despite its central location, the hotel offers an oasis of tranquillity.

A real gem is their pool, a rare find in Positano, where you can take a refreshing dip after a day of exploring.

With its lush garden setting and impeccable service, Hotel Palazzo Murat ensures a stay as memorable as the picturesque town itself.

See more photos & book here.

The next hotel is more budget-friendly, but the location might be even better.

Palazzo Talamo offers a location that’s hard to beat.

From its elevated position, guests can drink in sweeping views of the sparkling Mediterranean while Positano’s centre, beaches, and renowned restaurants are just footsteps away.

Palazzo Talamo’s warm and attentive staff and ideal location make it a top choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the Positano experience without hassle.

See more photos & book here.

If breathtaking panoramas are on your must-have list, Hotel Villa Gabrisa should be on your radar.

Perched higher up on the Positano cliffs, the vistas from here are genuinely jaw-dropping, offering guests a unique perspective of the town and the vast expanse of the sea.

The view, often described by previous visitors as one of the best in Positano, is a real showstopper, especially during sunset.

However, with such elevated beauty comes a bit of a trek: while the beach is accessible, it requires navigating a series of stairs, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

But for those willing to take the journey, Hotel Villa Gabrisa promises an unforgettable stay in Positano.

See more photos & book here.

3. Sorrento – my favourite place to stay in the area

Sorrento is not on the Amalfi Coast but on the “other side” of the peninsula. It is, however, often mentioned in connection with trips to the world-famous coastal area.

This is precisely why we also chose to spend the night in Sorrento on the way from Naples – the city is easy to get to with a 1-hour regional train ride from Naples, and you can quickly get to the Amalfi Coast by ferry or bus.

We took the train from Naples to Sorrento, where you drive past Mount Vesuvius and can also stop off at Pompeii if you want to experience the city destroyed by the volcanic eruption back in 79.

The train journey takes just over 1 hour, and the station in Sorrento is right in the centre, so you can quickly go to your hotel in the cosy coastal town.

Consider Sorrento as a base for your Amalfi Coast trip

When we traveled from Sorrento towards Amalfi after just one night, we were actually left with the feeling that it was a little too fast.

After the trip, I also have to admit that Sorrento is the city that surprised me the most and, at the same time, is the place I would most like to travel to again.

See the 10 best hotels in Sorrento here.

Other tourists have also discovered Sorrento, which for several decades has been a favorite destination just like (the rest of) the Amalfi Coast.

But because the city is a certain size, you don’t feel the same way you walk around in a real-world Disneyland as it can sometimes feel like in Amalfi and Positano.

There are lots of restaurants, and small cozy streets in the center and it is also possible to find hotels at really good prices with a central location in Sorrento.

I can also recommend going out to Bagni Regina Giovanna, where you will find the most glorious grotto, which (like the rest of Sorrento) has been used as a place of excursion since Roman times.

Sorrento surprised me positively, and I want to encourage you to consider spending a night or two here in the city, which has a few beaches and ferry connections to, e.g., Naples, Capri, and Amalfi.

Places to stay in Sorrento

As we only had a single night in Sorrento, we chose to spend the night relatively spartanly, even though there are plenty of excellent hotels in Sorrento, which, e.g. has swimming pools and sea views.

However, we wanted to save a little on the overnight stay in Sorrento, so we found a very cheap option called La Rada B&B, which scored top ratings from previous guests and is located a few minutes walk from the station in Sorrento.

Before arrival, there was really good communication from the owners, so we easily found the place, which is inside an ordinary apartment complex in the middle of Sorrento.

It is not really the nicest place to spend the night and I would not recommend it for more nights in Sorrento, but if you are looking for the classic “a place to sleep in the center at a cheap price“, then it is a good offer.

The hosts were nice, the breakfast was really nice and served in the room so we could sit on our little balcony and enjoy it.

See more photos & book here.

I will 100% book into one of the more luxurious hotels with a view over the bay next time I go to Sorrento.

I’ve found this outstanding hotel.

The hotel is located in the city centre, has good rooms with a view and this fantastic swimming pool with a sea view.

See more photos of the place and book online here.

Right in the heart of Sorrento, you’ll find the Hotel Continental.

Its prime location makes it an excellent choice for those wanting to explore the city’s cosy streets, historic sites, and local eateries.

What sets this hotel apart from many others in the city centre is its lovely swimming pool – a rare treat in central Sorrento.

Guests frequently write in their reviews about this spot’s convenience and serene pool area, making it a perfect blend of city adventure and relaxation.

Hotel Continental should be high on your list if you’re looking for a top-notch place to stay in Sorrento.

See more photos & book here.

Hotel Del Corso is a fantastic pick for travellers seeking a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing location or quality.

The hotel is located on Sorrento’s main street, so you’re right in the middle of all the action, with shops, restaurants, and local attractions steps away. It’s a pedestrianised street so there’s no noisy cars or traffic.

The convenience of its central location and its value for money make Hotel Del Corso a popular choice for many visiting Sorrento.

So, if you’re looking for an economical stay right in the city’s heart, this place ticks all the boxes.

See more photos & book here.

4 . Ravello – good area to stay if you rent a car

The following recommended area on the Amalfi Coast is mainly for you who rent a car on your trip or are ready for a bus trip or two.

Ravello is located ‘up in the country, so you can’t jump on a ferry and get to the famous town on the Amalfi Coast.

I’ve talked about how easy it is to get around the Amalfi Coast with ferries, and I’ve told you that the traffic is terrible. It is, but having said that, you also earn considerable freedom by renting a car.

See the 10 best hotels in Ravello here.

Ravello is very close to Amalfi, so it is also an excellent place to live for those who want to experience more areas on the coast.

See location on map here:

I never made it to Ravello, but I’ve read excellent things about the town in the mountains.

It should be an area where you slow down more than in Amalfi and Positano, where there are always many people.

Places to stay in Ravello

Let’s look at a few good places to stay in Ravello. Here are my favourites.

Looking for a good-value hotel in Ravello that doesn’t compromise on the essentials? Hotel Bonadies might just be the spot for you.

It’s positioned perfectly to offer visitors some of the most unforgettable views of the Amalfi Coast. Additionally, it features a quaint swimming pool.

According to reviews from previous guests, the sunsets and sunrises witnessed from their rooms and the poolside are simply unmatched.

Hotel Bonadies is a standout choice in Ravello, delivering a memorable stay without stretching your budget.

See more photos & book here.

The Garden Hotel provides a tranquil retreat in the heart of Ravello.

• It’s got an incredible rating from previous guests, so I’m sure this is an excellent place to stay on the Amalfi Coast.

The standout feature is its inviting pool area, a spot where guests can relax and rejuvenate.

Past visitors frequently mention the unparalleled views of the Amalfi Coast that this place offers, making every sunrise and sunset an event in itself.

If you’re seeking relaxation and breathtaking scenery, the Garden Hotel is a top pick for your Ravello visit.

See more photos & book here.

5. Maiori & Minori – best place to stay with children

5-6 kilometers east of Amalfi town, we find Maiori, which is often described as the best place on the Amalfi Coast if you travel with children.

Together with the sister city of Minori, which is also described as a good area, this place is thus a sensible place to look for hotels. The town has a certain size and is built up with many restaurants, cafes, and shops.

See the 10 best hotels in Maiori here.

Maiori’s biggest attraction, however, is undoubtedly the beach, which is the longest on the Amalfi Coast, where they are typically relatively small and also enclosed in beach clubs, where you have to buy access to a deck chair for 20-30 euros per day (yes, that’s the price!).

I didn’t visit Maiori, but I would probably have booked a hotel here in town if I hadn’t found the cheap apartment in Amalfi.

There are good connections to Amalfi by bus and ferry (and also ferries for Capri and Salerno).

So you can also stay here if you don’t rent a car on your Amalfi trip.

Places to stay in Maiori & Minori

As one of the more unknown areas on the Amalfi Coast, finding more affordable accommodation in Maiori is sometimes easier. So let’s look at some of my favourite places to stay here.

Hotel San Francesco stands out for its unique beachfront location – a rarity along the Amalfi Coast. This feature alone makes it a coveted spot for travellers.

The privilege of stepping out directly onto the beach and the joy of hearing the waves during your stay cannot be understated.

Adding to its allure, the hotel boasts a pool area, a delightful space to unwind.

Many previous guests highlight the experience of sipping a drink by the pool while gazing out at the sea. If a blend of beach and leisure is what you’re after, Hotel San Francesco in Maiori offers just that.

See more photos & book here.

Palazzo Vingius offers an unforgettable visual treat in the charming town of Minori with its epic beach views.

Positioned slightly elevated, the hotel provides a panoramic spectacle of the coastline, making it a popular choice among travellers.

As many previous guests have mentioned in their reviews, the view is a standout feature.

Imagine waking up to the serene blue waters and the rhythmic sound of waves – it’s a dreamy experience that this hotel promises.

See more photos & book here.

I hope you were able to use this guide to the best areas on the Amalfi Coast, and you are now ready to book your trip to the beautiful holiday area.

If you have any questions about the places or hotels I mentioned in the guide, please comment below, and I will do my best to help with travel planning.

FAQ:

The post Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast? 5 Best Towns, Areas & Places to Stay 🍋 appeared first on Destination Well Known.

Based on thorough research and an unforgettable visit last summer, I’ve gathered essential insights and tips to help you prepare for your trip to this lovely part of Italy.

1. Early Hotel Reservations Are a Must

When planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, one of the first and most important steps is to book your accommodation well in advance.

The coast spans approximately 50 kilometres, and while it’s dotted with picturesque towns, the number of available hotels is limited.

The popularity of this destination means that hotels fill up quickly, especially during the peak tourist season. 

It’s advisable to make reservations several months ahead to ensure you secure a place that meets your preferences and budget.

This proactive approach guarantees a place to stay and provides more options and potentially better rates.

Check out the hotels I recommend in my guide on where to stay on the Amalfi Coast or my video:

2. Reconsider Renting a Car

While driving along the Amalfi Coast might seem appealing, the reality is quite different. The coastal roads are notoriously narrow, winding, and often congested.

Traffic can be intense, especially during summer, leading to long delays and elevated stress levels.

Additionally, parking is scarce and expensive in the main towns. To get a true sense of what driving is like, a quick search for “Amalfi Coast traffic” on YouTube can provide a vivid picture:

The hassle of navigating these challenging roads outweighs the benefits for most travellers.

3. Opt for Ferries Over Cars and Buses

Given the traffic issues, the ferry is a more pleasant and practical way to explore the Amalfi Coast.

Numerous ferry companies operate routes between the coastal towns, effectively serving as a reliable mode of public transportation.

Travelling by ferry avoids the traffic and offers spectacular views of the coastline from the sea.

The experience of gliding over the turquoise waters with the dramatic cliffs and charming villages as a backdrop is genuinely unforgettable.

Ferries run frequently, making hopping from one town to another easy.

I used a company called Travelmar quite a few times.

Check out my guide on the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast too.

4. Book Restaurants in Advance

The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its culinary delights, from fresh seafood to traditional Italian dishes. However, the towns along the coast and the number of dining establishments are relatively small. 

Popular tourist towns like Amalfi and Positano attract large crowds, and the best restaurants are often fully booked. 

A few of my favourite restaurants in Amalfi Town (where I stayed) are:

• Taverna degli Apostoli
• Ristorante L’Abside
• Pizza Express (fantastic takeaway pizza)

To avoid disappointment and make sure you get to enjoy the local cuisine, it’s wise to make restaurant reservations ahead of your visit.

• This tip is especially crucial during peak seasons when demand is at its highest.

5. Alternative Travel Route: Rome to Salerno

Many travellers assume that Naples is the only gateway to the Amalfi Coast. However, an alternative route can be more convenient and less crowded.

You can take a high-speed train from Rome to Salerno, which takes around 2 hours:

Salerno is well-connected to the Amalfi Coast by ferry and bus services. This route can be a more pleasant and efficient way to reach your destination, bypassing the often chaotic Naples traffic.

For booking train tickets across Europe, I recommend using this booking platform.

6. Consider Sorrento as Your Base

While Sorrento is technically not part of the Amalfi Coast, it’s a fantastic base for exploring the region.

Sorrento offers several advantages, including a broader range of accommodations at more affordable prices than the smaller towns on the coast.

The town itself is larger, providing more amenities and a lively atmosphere. Sorrento’s location also makes it a convenient starting point for day trips to the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Pompeii.

The town has excellent ferry and bus connections, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas without needing a car.

By planning ahead, making necessary reservations, and choosing the best modes of transportation, you can get a smooth and enjoyable trip. 

Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Positano, the historic sites of Amalfi, or the tranquil gardens of Ravello, the Amalfi Coast promises an unforgettable experience. 

Read all my Amalfi Coast travel guides.

The post 6 Things You Need To Know Before Travelling to the Amalfi Coast appeared first on Destination Well Known.

I will share the best transport options from Naples to Sorrento in this guide.

If you’ve read my extensive guide to the best towns and areas to stay on the Amalfi Coast, you know there are many options for finding a place to stay.

I loved Sorrento, which is admittedly not part of the Amalfi Coast itself but is often mentioned in the same vein and, to that extent, is worth a visit.

On this trip, we flew to Fiumicino in Rome, took the train to Naples, stayed a single night in Naples and then went to Sorrento.

So, let’s look at how to get from Naples to Sorrento.

1. Train from Naples to Sorrento

From Napoli Centrale (which is the city’s main railway station and also called Napoli Garibaldi), there is a regional train with terminus Sorrento.

By the way, if you’re looking for a cheap place to stay near the station, check out ibis Styles Napoli Garibaldi. I stayed there on my trip to Naples, and it was excellent value for money and extremely close to the train station.

Check out my massive guide on where to stay in Naples.

Here is the railway station on a map:

In other words, it is extremely easy to get from Naples to Sorrento by train.

You can take a regional train that takes 1 hour and 13 minutes with 29 stops on the trip along the coast of Naples.

The train operated by the Circumvesuviana also stops at Pompeii, so here is a good opportunity to experience one of Italy’s most famous landmarks on the trip from Naples to Sorrento.

You can find tickets to Pompeii here.

Schedule and tickets

We took the train from Naples to Sorrento in the summer of 2022, and everything worked flawlessly. Trains run approximately every 20-30 minutes.

See a timetable for the train here.

You cannot buy train tickets online for the regional train, but must go past the ticket kiosk located before the barrier down to the platform. In other words, you cannot “get” to stand on the train without a ticket.

The train tickets cost only 4.90 Euro per person.

There were many people on the train, so we were lucky to get a seat.

I would therefore not recommend the train if you are travelling with elderly people during the summer months.

You arrive at Sorrento Station, located very centrally in the beautiful holiday town, so if you stay centrally in the town, you can probably stroll to your hotel in a short time.

Also, check out my guide on the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast.

2. Taxi to Sorrento

Of course, you can also get from Naples to Sorrento by taxi or private driver.

I recommend agreeing to a fixed price with a taxi driver for you driving from Naples – or even better, book the transport online with a verified driver at Get Your Guide.

How much is a taxi from Naples to Sorrento?

There are many options, but you should expect about 135 euros for 4 people from Naples to Sorrento.

3. Ferry to Sorrento

It is also possible to get from Naples to Sorrento by ferry, where several companies sail the trip daily.

As I said, we took the train, but I understand that Alilauro is an excellent company.

Timetable and tickets for the ferry

They sail from Naples to Sorrento in high season at the following times:

• At 09:00
• At 11:00
• At 13:00
• At 15:05
• At 17:15
• At 19:30

And return from Sorrento to Naples:

• At 08:10
• At 10:00
• At 12:00
• At 14:00
• At 16:25
• At 18:45

So if you want to take a day trip from Naples to Sorrento by ferry, it can easily be done.

• The journey by ferry from Naples to Sorrento takes 45 minutes.
• The price is 14 euros for adults and 9.80 for children from 2-12 years.
• You can see current timetables and buy tickets at this link.

The ferry departs from Napoli Beverello:

There are also ferries from Naples to many destinations in southern Italy, so you can actually get to all sorts of destinations such as Sardinia, Ischia, Sicily and even Corsica in France.

From Naples Airport to Sorrento

If you land at Naples Airport and go directly to Sorrento, there are many options for transport. Let’s take a closer look at them below.

Cheap shared transfer with minibus

The easiest way would be to take a shared shuttle directly from the airport to Sorrento.

Get Your Guide has an option that costs 50 euros per person and where you ride in a shared minibus with others who are also going to Sorrento (or Amalfi and Ravello, which the company also drives to).

See more and book the transport here.

Private driver or taxi

You can, of course, also book your own private car from the airport to Sorrento.

Here the price is very similar to that from the centre of Naples, so you have to expect about 135 euros, but there you also get a private driver waiting for you in the arrivals hall.

See the options for booking here.

Shuttle bus to the centre of Naples & the train onward

If you want to take public transport from the airport to Sorrento, you must take a shuttle bus from the airport to the main railway station in Naples (Centrale/Garibaldi).

The bus is called Alibus and only takes 15-20 minutes from the airport to Garibaldi, so it’s also quite an easy option.

The bus runs every 20-30 minutes and costs 5 euros – tickets can be bought on entry. The bus from the airport to the centre runs from 06:00 to 23:20.

You can then take the Circumvesuviana train from Garibaldi, which is described at the top of the guide here.

I hope you could use this guide and are now ready to travel to beautiful Sorrento with peace of mind.

If you haven’t booked your accommodation in Sorrento yet, check out my guide on the best places to stay in Sorrento & the Amalfi Coast.

Have a great trip

The post How to get from Naples to Sorrento by Train, Taxi, Ferry or Bus 🍋 🇮🇹 appeared first on Destination Well Known.