The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula. Known for its sheer cliffs, pastel-colored fishing villages, and crystal-clear waters, the Amalfi Coast has been a popular destination for tourists for centuries. The region is dotted with picturesque towns like Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, each with their own unique charm and attractions. Here are 5 beautiful towns not miss on your Amalfi coast trip.
Best time to visit Amalfi Coast
The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). The weather is pleasant, the crowds are fewer, and prices are lower compared to the peak summer season. The sea is also warm enough for swimming during these months. However, if you plan to visit during the summer months of June-August, be prepared for higher prices, bigger crowds, and heavy traffic on the narrow coastal roads. It’s still a beautiful time to visit, but you’ll need to plan carefully and book well in advance.
How to get to Amalfi coast
There are several ways to get to the Amalfi Coast, including by ferry, driving yourself along the Amalfi Coast, and hiring a private driver. Each of these options has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on your travel style and preferences.
The easiest and most budget-friendly option for getting to the Amalfi Coast is by taking the ferry from Sorrento. Sorrento is a beautiful town on the coast of southern Italy, and it serves as a great base for exploring the Amalfi Coast. From here, you can take a ferry to the different towns along the coast, including Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello. This option is ideal for those who want to see the Amalfi Coast but don’t want to spend a lot of money on transportation or deal with the stress of driving along the winding coastal roads.
Another option for getting to the Amalfi Coast is by hiring a private driver. This is a more luxurious option, but it can also be more expensive. However, it offers the convenience of having someone else do the driving, which can be a huge relief on the narrow and winding roads along the coast. With a private driver, you can relax and take in the beautiful scenery, while your driver takes care of everything else.
Driving yourself along the Amalfi Coast is also an option, but it requires a bit more planning and preparation. The coastal roads are narrow and winding, and the traffic can be heavy, especially during the summer months. I recommended to only attempt this during the off-season, from the end of September to the beginning of April, to avoid the heavy tourist traffic. Here is a detailed post on what to expect when driving Amalfi coast in summer.
5 beautiful towns not miss on your Amalfi coast trip
Positano
Positano is a picturesque cliffside village that offers stunning views of the sea and colorful houses. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, shop in local boutiques, and dine in charming restaurants. One of the main attractions is the beach, where visitors can relax on sun loungers and enjoy the clear water. Positano also has a number of hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the coastline.
Amalfi
Amalfi is a historical town that was once a maritime powerhouse. Visitors can explore the iconic Duomo di Sant’Andrea, a beautiful cathedral that combines elements of Romanesque and Baroque architecture. The town also has a beautiful harbor, where visitors can rent boats and take a tour of the coastline. Amalfi is also known for its paper production, and visitors can visit the Museum of Paper to learn about the history of the craft.
Ravello
Ravello is a charming hilltop village that offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding mountains. The town is home to beautiful gardens, such as the Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, both of which offer stunning views and beautiful architecture. Ravello also has a number of beautiful churches, such as the Duomo di Ravello and the Church of San Giovanni del Toro.
Minori
Minori is a small seaside town that is known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the beach promenade and explore the local shops and restaurants. The town is also home to the beautiful Basilica di Santa Trofimena, a beautiful church with stunning frescoes and mosaics.
Maiori
Maiori is a charming town that is known for its beautiful beaches and ancient history. Visitors can explore the ruins of the Roman Villa, a beautiful complex of ancient buildings and gardens. Maiori is also home to the beautiful Church of Santa Maria a Mare, a beautiful church with stunning frescoes and architecture. The town is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Amalfi Coast.
