Best Places to Visit in Amalfi Coast

An exploration of the breathtaking ocean-side towns of the Amalfi Coast is sure to excite all who embark upon it. And with its peaceful towns, beautiful beaches, and endless views, it is impossible to leave without feeling relaxed and reinvigorated. The Amalfi coast is situated on a southern facing stretch of coastline about 50km in length. Easily accessible from Naples and with popular tourist destinations and world heritage sites en route or nearby, this seemingly sleepy coastal region has a lot to offer its visitors.

The Amalfi Coast isn’t simply for sunseekers that wish to hunt out the beaches and take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Lovers of architecture can take in grand villas such as Villa Jovis in Capri or the church of Assunta in Positano whilst history enthusiasts can delve into the past at the nearby ruins of Pompeii. And if you love to be on the water then a visit to the Blue Grotto underwater cave is a must.

Things to do on Amalfi Coast

A trip along the Amalfi Coast can begin in the city of Naples. From there, the journey south will take you south through the ruins of the city of Pompeii. Destroyed in 79 AD by Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii was preserved under layers of volcanic ash like a town placed into a time capsule waiting to be discovered. Wander amongst the ancient houses, brothels, and baths and catch a glimpse of what life must have been like almost 2000 years ago.

Though still active, Mount Vesuvius can still be accessed and is safe to climb. Lava certainly won’t start flowing once you reach the crater! A hike to the top provides stunning views of the local area and an opportunity to see the effect it has had on the surrounding landscape. As you stand on the edge of the crater you’ll be reminded that although the volcano sits quietly, it still has the potential to cause immense destruction.

Continuing along the coastline to the Sorrentine Peninsula you will find Sorrento perched on top of the cliffs gazing across the sea. From here, hop into a boat and set sail to the idyllic island of Capri famed for its rugged landscape, delicious cuisine, and up-market shopping. Villa Jovis, the ruins of the Roman emperor Tiberius’s palace, is the largest of the Tiberian villas on the island and was built in 27 AD. The palatial ruins are wonderful to explore and, of course, offer extensive sea views – part of the reason why Tiberius choose the location for the palace.

To fully take in the magnificence of Capri, hike to the peak of Monte Solaro for a panoramic view of the island and the surrounding gulf. From here you can admire the Faraglioni Rocks jutting out from the sea. Weathered by water and time these formations are stunning to view from a height but are also worth exploring on a boat tour. Boat exploration will also bring you close to the towering 300-meter-tall cliff face of Salto di Tiberio.

For many, the biggest draw of the island is the Blue Grotto. As sunlight penetrates the water, this underwater cave magically illuminates and is bathed in blue light. Visitors can board a rowing boat and travel through the small cave opening to experience this natural wonder.

After returning to Sorrento you can journey onto the southern side of the peninsula and begin a continue to the heart of the Amalfi Coast. Make sure your cameras are charged and at the ready because even the drive along the windswept coastline will take your breath away. Once you have arrived at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Amalfi, you will see why the town has enchanted the world with its beauty. Climb the steps which lead up to the 9th century Amalfi Cathedral and gaze across the town that gives name to this stunning part of Italy.

Other Popular Attractions on the Amalfi Coast

Towns speckled with pastel coloured buildings line the Amalfi Coast and each is worth a visit to experience their unique charms. Halfway between Sorrento and Amalfi is Positano, a cliffside village with a pebble beach and winding streets filled with cafes and boutique shops. A truly stunning location, a photo of the town posted onto your Instagram will find you inundated with likes. It is also home to the Santa Maria Assunta Church. This stunning church is a few steps from the Marina Grande beach and holds much cultural and religious significance in the village of Positano.

Slightly further along the coast is the fishing town of Praiano. Less crowded than Positano, the sleepy atmosphere here draws tourists wanting to escape the busier areas nearby. The town contains a collection of churches and beaches and a walk through the tangle of streets will provide you with several options to relax with a coffee or glass of wine.

The town of Ravello located slightly north-east of Amalfi is situated higher in the cliffs and sees buildings clinging to the mountainside. Medieval streets are waiting to be explored here as well as the sprawling landscaped gardens of Villa Rufolo.

A visit to the Amalfi coast can be tailored to fit any traveller. Visitors craving a cultural tour will be spoiled by the buildings and monuments within the towns and villages. And those wishing to take a dip in the warm, clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea will be able to take a tour of a myriad of beaches. Even if you chose to stay on the tour bus the vistas that the ‘road of 1000 bends’ enjoys would still leave you speechless.