Italy’s Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and charming villages, remains one of the most enchanting destinations in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and luxurious relaxation. Here’s a little trip inspiration to best of the Amalfi Coast in 2024. Safe travels!
Day 1: Exploring Positano – The Jewel of the Amalfi Coast
Begin your journey in Positano, arguably the most iconic village on the Amalfi Coast. Known for its colorful buildings cascading down the cliffs to the sea, Positano is a picture-perfect start to your adventure.
Start your day with a walk through the narrow, winding streets filled with boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. Positano continues to offer a mix of high-end fashion and local crafts, making it a great place to shop for souvenirs. Don’t miss the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its famous dome covered in majolica tiles and its ancient Byzantine icon of the Black Madonna.
Head to Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach, for a relaxing morning by the sea. Beach clubs like Le Sirenuse offer loungers and umbrellas, along with excellent food and drinks, making it a luxurious spot to unwind.
For lunch, try one of Positano’s seaside restaurants. Da Adolfo, accessible by boat, remains a popular choice, offering fresh seafood in a laid-back setting. Spend your afternoon at a beach club or explore nearby beaches like Fornillo, which offers a quieter atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to one of Positano’s many rooftop bars, such as Franco’s Bar, for a cocktail with stunning views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. End your day with a dinner at La Sponda, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its candlelit dining and exquisite Mediterranean cuisine.
Day 2: Amalfi and Ravello – History and Elegance
On your second day, visit the town of Amalfi, the historic heart of the coast. Amalfi was once a powerful maritime republic, and its rich history is still evident today. Start with a visit to the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi), an impressive structure with a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Byzantine, and Moorish influences.
Explore the Cloister of Paradise, adjacent to the cathedral, and visit the Paper Museum (Museo della Carta), which highlights Amalfi’s historical paper-making industry as part of the town’s cultural heritage.
After exploring Amalfi, take a scenic drive up to Ravello, known for its elegant villas and breathtaking views. Visit Villa Rufolo, famous for its stunning gardens and panoramic vistas over the coast. The villa continues to host concerts and events, especially during the annual Ravello Festival.
For lunch, enjoy a meal at Villa Maria, a restaurant known for its farm-to-table approach, offering fresh, organic produce from its gardens. In the afternoon, visit Villa Cimbrone, another of Ravello’s beautiful estates, with its iconic Terrazza dell’Infinito (Terrace of Infinity) offering one of the most spectacular views on the Amalfi Coast.
Finish your day with a leisurely stroll through Ravello’s quiet streets and enjoy a peaceful evening in one of the town’s luxury hotels, like the Belmond Hotel Caruso, known for its infinity pool overlooking the coast.
Day 3: Capri – The Enchanted Island
No trip to the Amalfi Coast is complete without a visit to Capri, the glamorous island that has captivated visitors for centuries. Take an early morning ferry from Positano or Amalfi to Capri, arriving in time to beat the crowds.
Start with a visit to the Blue Grotto, Capri’s most famous natural wonder. The grotto remains a popular attraction, but arriving early allows you to experience its magical blue light without the long lines.
Next, take the funicular up to Capri town, where you can explore the Piazzetta, the lively square at the heart of the island. Enjoy a coffee at Caffè Tiberio, a historic café that remains a favourite spot for people-watching.
Spend your afternoon exploring Anacapri, the quieter, more traditional side of the island. Visit Villa San Michele, the former home of Swedish physician Axel Munthe, now a museum with stunning gardens and panoramic views.
For lunch, head to Il Riccio, a Michelin-starred beach club and restaurant near the Blue Grotto, known for its fresh seafood and luxurious ambiance.
In the afternoon, take a boat tour around the island to see the Faraglioni rocks and the natural arch, iconic symbols of Capri’s beauty. As the day winds down, return to Capri town and take in the sunset from the Gardens of Augustus, which offer spectacular views of the Faraglioni and Marina Piccola.
Day 4: Sorrento – The Gateway to the Amalfi Coast
End your Amalfi Coast adventure in Sorrento, known as the gateway to the coast. Sorrento is famous for its lemon groves and production of limoncello, which remains a staple of the local economy.
Start your day with a visit to the Piazza Tasso, the main square, and explore the historic Corso Italia, lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants. Sorrento’s charm lies in its mix of old-world elegance and modern amenities, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the local culture.
Visit the Museo Correale di Terranova, which offers a fascinating collection of Neapolitan art and historical artifacts, or take a walk to the Marina Grande, Sorrento’s picturesque fishing village, where you can enjoy fresh seafood by the water.
For lunch, dine at O’Parrucchiano La Favorita, a historic restaurant known for its lemon garden and traditional Sorrentine cuisine. In the afternoon, take a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes like gnocchi alla sorrentinaand delizia al limone.
End your day with a visit to the Vallone dei Mulini, a dramatic ancient valley in the heart of Sorrento, or enjoy a final sunset from the Villa Comunale, offering sweeping views over the Bay of Naples.
The Amalfi Coast remains one of the most sought-after destinations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and luxury. From the vibrant streets of Positano and the historic charm of Amalfi and Ravello to the enchanting island of Capri and the welcoming town of Sorrento, this region offers an unforgettable travel experience.
Would you like to read about another region in Italy? How about Piedmont in the north?
As you embark on your travels, remember that our journey leaves an impact. Embrace eco-friendly accommodations, support local communities, and reduce plastic use. Respect wildlife by observing from afar and conserve resources like water and energy. Choose sustainable transportation, leave no trace behind, and participate in conservation efforts. Educate yourself and others about the environment you’re exploring. Let’s ensure that we tread lightly on our planet, leaving only footprints of kindness and taking home memories that inspire others to protect our beautiful world. Happy responsible travels!