6 THINGS YOU ABSOLUTELY MUST DO ON THE AMALFI COAST

The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s (if not the world’s) most memorable destinations so it would be hard not to have a great time during a trip there. But, to really take your trip to the next level and create memories that are sure to last a lifetime here are my recommendations for things not to miss.

1. RENT A BOAT

It’s one thing to enjoy the beauty of the coast from land but seeing it from the water is an experience all on its own. Rent a boat from one of the vendors on Positano’s Spiagge Grande and cruise up and down the coast. If you’re an experienced boater you can captain a small boat yourself.  But if not, there are many captained options available. And the benefit of having a captain is they will know the best spots to visit. Like the best beaches to anchor in for a private swim or the best restaurants for lunch that are only accessible by boat (see below). Or you could do as we did and pack a lunch and pull into one of the empty coves for a leisurely picnic lunch followed by a swim. Renting a boat is also a great way to explore some of the little grottos tucked into the craggy cliffs along the coast.

2. VISIT A BEACH CLUB ONLY ACCESSIBLE BY BOAT

If you don’t get to this during your boat cruise then make a point to do it another day. Some have their own shuttle boat that will pick you up and take you back again. Most of the beach clubs have their own bars and restaurants so you can make an afternoon of it. Feast on freshly caught seafood and then rent a lattino (lounger) and spend the afternoon swimming in the crystal clear waters and napping off your lunch. Not to mention that liter of wine you had to go with it. Probably the most famous of the beach clubs these days is Da Adolfo right next to Positano. However, due to all the exposure from bloggers (like me), it is becoming increasingly hard to get a reservation. There are others that are just as good. Like La Conca del Sogno in Nerano Bay further west along the way to Sorrento. Or Ristorante Da Teresa on the beach of Santa Croce in Amalfi.

                                                                                            Photo courtesy of Ristorante Da Teresa

3. HIKE THE PATH OF THE GODS

Hike the full 7.8 km of the path to experience some of the most breathtaking views of the entire coastline. Start your hike in Bomerano where there are signs in the main piazza to indicate the start of the trail. Along the path, there are red and white lines showing the way. The hike will take you around 4 -5 hours from Bomerano to Nocelle and back again or you can end your hike in Nocelle and walk the short way down to Positano for lunch. It’s not a difficult hike but it is rocky so make sure to wear good hiking or walking shoes and bring water. During the summer months, you’ll want to start early before the temperature gets too hot and to avoid crowds. You can find out more information about the path here.

                                                                                                     Photo courtesy of Positano.com

4. TAKE THE FERRY TO CAPRI

Capri is the perfect day trip from the mainland. Catch the ferry from Sorrento, Positano, or Amalfi and enjoy the short ride over. You’ll arrive at Marina Grande featuring the largest beach on the island. From here catch the bus to Anacapri, the island’s smaller, less touristy town. After exploring the many artisan workshops take the chairlift up Mount Solaro to enjoy the views. Once back down, catch the bus to the main town of Capri with its many luxury boutiques, restaurants, and nightclubs. For lunch walk down towards one of the beach clubs or my fav, Il Geranio which overlooks the Faraglioni Rocks. After, wind your way down Via Krupp, the serpentine pedestrian street designed by German steel Industrialist AF Krupp. Finish off the day back in Capri’s main piazza for an aperitivo and some people-watching before catching the ferry back to the mainland. And for those of you wondering why I haven’t mentioned the Blue Grotto; well in my humble opinion, it’s a little overrated. Not to mention crowded. There are usually long lineups to transfer to one of the smaller boats that can enter the grotto. Once in the smaller boat, you’ll have to wait again to go inside where you’ll spend just a few short minutes. That being said, you’ll likely only be here once so if it’s on your bucket list I totally understand. Find more information on visiting Capri, including ferry schedules here.

5. VISIT RAVELLO

While most of the small towns along the Amalfi Coast are situated along the sea, the cliff-top town of Ravello is high above it and has and has stunning views of the coastline. While there a visit to the medieval-style estate of Villa Cimbrone and its celebrated gardens is a must. Take a leisurely stroll and admire the rare botanic species planted in the garden. Don’t miss visiting the Belvedere featuring the impressive Terrace of Infinity for a great photo op. If you’re lucky and it’s not too crowded you might be able to get a shot of the terrace’s marble busts lined up.

And if you’re in the area during the months of July and August, make it a point to get tickets to the Ravello Festival, one of the oldest and most renowned music festivals held in Italy. 

                                                                                                        Photo courtesy of Ravellofesitval.com

6. ESCAPE THE CROWDS

Get away from the crowds of Positano and Amalfi and visit Atrani, once a posh suburb of Amalfi and the smallest town in Southern Italy. Explore the little laneways, covered passageways, and narrow stairways.  The nearby towns of Maiori e Minori are also great places to escape the mayhem. Maiori also has the longest stretch of sandy beach in the area.

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If you found this post useful, check out my Guide To Rome Restaurants and The Best Piazzas In Rome For An Aperitivo.