The Amalfi Coast is a stunning destination along the coast of southern Italy. From Salerno to Sorrento, colorful and charming villages dot the coastline, perched on the rocky cliffs hanging over turquoise waters. With popular towns like Amalfi and Positano, to hidden gems such as Ravello and Conca dei Marini, the Amalfi Coast is a true paradise waiting to be explored. Here are the top ten things to do on the Amalfi Coast.
1. Take a Boat Ride Along the Amalfi Coast
It’s not an easy choice to rank the top areas of the Amalfi coast, so I kind of cheated by listing a boat ride along the coast as the best thing to do so you can see them all! (Or most of them).
Seeing the Amalfi Coast from the water also takes on a whole new perspective of how truly incredible this coastline is. Start in Positano and cruise south past Praiano, Fiordo di Furore, and Conca dei Marini. Then reach the towns of Amalfi and Atrani before heading back to Positano.
Some tours will allow time to get off and visit Amalfi. Our private boat tour took us to an incredible beach side seafood restaurant in Conca di Marina where we enjoyed some of the freshest food of our entire Italy trip. We also stopped to swim in a few sea caves along the coast.
I’d highly suggest taking a boat tour of the coast (a private one if you can afford it) - but the ferry from Positano to Amalfi also cruises the coast, although it goes very fast and only lasts about 20 minutes so the experience is quite different than taking it in with a guide. For more information about taking a boat along the coast, check out my experience Boating Along the Amalfi Coast.
2. Positano
Positano is a postcard. Breathtaking views at every corner, Positano is full of winding streets, unique architecture, and vibrant, colorful buildings. Its beaches are stunning. If you are traveling to the Amalfi Coast, a visit to Positano is a must. If you choose to stay in Positano, it may be pricey, but you have everything you need in this charming town. It’s also a great place to take a boat tour along the coast or to the island of Capri.
3. Capri
Capri is a beautiful island located in the Tyrrhenian Sea along the Amalfi Coast. Home to the famous Blue Grotto and the Faraglioni Rocks, Capri boasts some impressive natural beauty, but is also known for its luxurious boutiques and vibrant nightlife. Capri is a popular destination for tourists and celebrities alike. Day trips from Naples, Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi are very popular. If you can stay over for a night, I highly recommend doing so to experience Capri in One Day.
4. Ravello
Ravello is a charming hilltop town located in the mountains of the Amalfi Coast. Its two historic villas, Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, take the cake as the must see attractions in Ravello. Ravello’s villas have vibrant gardens, breathtaking views, and famous terraces. It’s a peaceful getaway as there are no cars in the town and it is much less crowded than Amalfi and Positano.
5. Amalfi
Amalfi is a historic coastal town located on the Amalfi Coast in Italy. Known for its stunning cathedral, picturesque harbor, and beautiful beaches, Amalfi is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Amalfi Coast. If you are staying in Amalfi, you will have great access to boat tours along the coast or to Capri. It’s also the gateway to Ravello. If you are making a day trip to Amalfi, take a stroll along the promenade, visit the cathedral, and sample some delicious local cuisine in the many restaurants and cafes.
6. Sorrento
Sorrento is a charming coastal town located on the Gulf of Naples. Known as the beginning of the “Amalfi Coast”, Sorrento is a popular destination for tourists and serves as a great jumping off point to visit other prime spots like Positano, Capri, and Amalfi. With more accommodation and dining options, many people opt to stay in Sorrento while visiting the Amalfi Coast.
7. Atrani
Atrani is a picturesque town right next to Amalfi. With narrow, winding streets, fewer crowds, and a stunning beach, Atrani is a great alternative for travelers seeking a more traditional Italian experience on the Amalfi Coast.
8. Conca dei Marini
Conca dei Marini is a charming coastal town that has some of the best seafood I’ve ever eaten. With a tiny, scenic harbor and two giant caves looming over it, Conca dei Marini is perfect if you are seeking a relaxing escape. A popular stop on a boating trip around the Amalfi Coast, have an unforgettable seaside meal at this Italian gem.
9. Fiordo di Furore
The Fiordo di Furore is a beautiful fjord located in the Amalfi Coast. It’s a popular day trip from Amalfi or Positano, and can be viewed from the water while Boating Along the Amalfi Coast. Visitors can swim, hike, or just relax on the beach at this peaceful escape. The Fiordo di Furore is worth a visit if you are in the Amalfi Coast, so make sure you set aside an afternoon to explore.
10. Day Trip to Pompeii
This would actually be near the top of the list as it was one of the best parts of my trip to Italy, but I feel it may be a little disrespectful to the Amalfi Coast to list a day trip as one of the top things to do since the coast is so beautiful.
If you are in the area for a few days and haven’t set aside time for a trip to the archeological site at Pompeii, consider doing so as this ancient lost city is truly magnificent. You can read more about a visit here in my Guide to Visiting Pompeii.
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most iconic spots in the entire world. Whether you are traveling for your honeymoon, with your family, or just exploring more of beautiful Italy, make sure you try to explore these ten must see places on the Amalfi Coast.
