Things to do in Amalfi
Amalfi is a magnificent town in the province of Salerno, Italy. Known for its beautiful landscapes and great monuments, the town has become an attractive destination for many tourists. The peak season for Amalfi is summer, due to its magnificent beaches. The Amalfi Coast, which is known worldwide, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been protected since 1997. It is not featured by a long coastline but more by small coves with clear waters. Besides that, there are many things to do and see in Amalfi that respond to every kind of visitor.
How to Get To Amalfi
Amalfi by Plane
Amalfi is easily accessible since it is a popular town. You can reach it effortlessly by plane. The closest airport is in Salerno, about 45 km away while there is also the airport of Naples about 75km away, a bit further. If choosing Salerno, you have a variety of options to get to Amalfi.
Amalfi by Bus
You can reach Amalfi by taking the train to Sorrento and then a bus to Amalfi, which lasts approximately a little more than two hours. Likewise, an interesting route could be by taking a bus from Naples to Sorrento and changing to another to reach Amalfi. Keep in mind, that if choosing public transportation to move between towns, you should book your ticket in advance, especially during peak season, when the area is more crowded.
Amalfi by Car
If preferring a more convenient way, you can rent a car and cross the SS163 Amalfitana coastal road to get to the town in about 1 hour and a half.
Amalfi by Ferry
The quickest one is by ferry, which not only lasts half an hour but also offers a great view of the surroundings.
RENT A CAR Amalfi
The best way to experience the Amalfi Coast is to rent your own car! Driving there has its challenges but it is a unique experience. We recommend booking well in advance using price comparison sites like rental cars if traveling in the peak summer season.
Where to park in Amalfi
Amalfi is a town with narrow streets and attractive alleys, specifically made for visitors to explore on foot. The historic center is pedestrian-friendly, while the town is also connected with others through walkable streets, such as Atrani. If wondering about parking, you should keep in mind that the town itself has a restricted policy on transportation. However, there are some options to consider like parking lots or some spots marked with blue colors that are available for parking. Note, that spots marked with white color are free only for the locals. The biggest and most popular parking lot in town is the Luna Rossa Parking Garage, placed between Amalfi and Atrani. It offers easy access to both towns by a tunnel. Otherwise, you can park inside the port area in Piazza Flavio Gioia, a spacious place, for 3 € per hour. Some hotels and restaurants offer discounted parking for their guests.
Things to Do in Amalfi
As previously mentioned, Amalfi is a town with many beauties to see and things to do, each one of them offering a unique experience and a deep understanding of the culture of the town.
Visit the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Sant’Andrea)
The Amalfi Cathedral is one of the most popular monuments in town. It was built in the 9th century but went under many renovations through the years, with some of them being the incorporation of the bell tower and the Cloister of Paradise. It stands in the Piazza Duomo, near the town center, and is dedicated to Saint Andrew. Saint Andrew was one of the apostles of Jesus. The facade of the church was really a piece of art to our eyes while it features colorful mosaics and a grand staircase of 62 steps leading up to it.
As you walk through the church you will notice the Martyrdom of St. Andrew, a painting above the holy place. Make sure to be quiet since many people are there to pray while also dressing modestly. The entrance to the church costs nothing for those who are there to pray, while for those desiring to visit the Museum and the Cloister of Paradise, the fee is 3 €.
Explore the Paper Museum (Museo della Carta)
The paper museum is a magnificent place to visit and you can get information about the town’s rich history and the tradition of paper making in the area. Amalfi is said to be the first place that began this way of paper production. It is in the upper part of the Amalfi and showcases a variety of tools used back then that assisted in the process.
The museum hosts many areas, and there are organized tours inside the museum that will guide you to the paper mill that was constructed in the 13th century, the room of Magisters in cartarum art that includes artifacts related to papermaking, and finally the library of “Nicola Milano” which hosts books related to papermaking as well. You can create paper on your own by using tools that have been restored and operate till today while you can also buy souvenirs from the gift shop. The entrance fee for the Museo della Carta is 3 € per person.
Take a Boat Tour
An experience not to miss in Amalfi could be renting a boat and exploring the surroundings. You will have the opportunity to investigate the area in depth while taking some unforgettable photos. There are many boat tour services that the town offers, where you can choose between a group or a private one.
The Amalfi boat tour, for example, is one of the top choices. Starting from Amalfi, it goes around the Amalfi Coast ensuring that you will see all the highlights while it reaches other coastal towns like Capri. Diamond Cruises in Amalfi is also an excellent choice to explore the surrounding area. It offers boat tours, and a water taxi to reach the nearby towns. A typical route includes stops at Faraglioni Rocks, Blue Grotto, and Li Galli Island amongst other places.
Hike the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei)
If you like hiking, a good way to explore the surrounding area could be by hiking the Path of the Gods. A route that offers an amazing view of the Amalfi Coast and the surrounding landscape. Legend says that the path took its name because the gods created it to help Odysseus escape from the sirens.
Starting from Bomerano, a small village in Agerola, and ending in Nacelle, above Positano it is considered a challenging route. Most people prefer Bomerano as a starting point since it allows you to hike downhill. It takes about 4 hours to be completed and includes some high and low paths. By crossing this trail, you will meet Positano, Praiano, and Amalfi, each one of them with a unique beauty.
If the day is clear, you will be lucky to see the breathtaking view of the Faraglioni rocks of Capri. Of course, being in an area of Italy, you can’t miss seeing vineyards, olive groves as well as sheep and goats along the way.
Relax on the Beaches
One of the most popular beaches in town, is the Marina Grande, a great attraction for locals and tourists as well. Marina Grande is the main beach of Amalfi, located just in front of the Piazza Duomo. You have the option to either rent a sunbed and an umbrella at a beach bar or lie down in the free space with your towel. You can also rent water sports equipment such as kayaks and paddleboards for all ages to enjoy your time in the clear waters.
A quieter and smaller option is the Atrani beach, near Amalfi. This beach also has as bars that rent sunbeds and chairs while offering drinks and snacks. However, there is a free space where you can relax as well. This beach is ideal for couples, families, and people seeking relaxation in their holidays.
Il Duoglio Beach is a bit away from the town center at about 2 km, and you can reach it either by boat or by climbing down 400 steps which might be a bit challenging. The biggest part of the beach consists of sunbeds, so if you prefer sitting in the free space, keep in mind to arrive early.
Lastly, Santa Croce Beach is considered the most isolated beach in Amalfi. To get there, you must climb down a steep staircase or take a boat. Surrounded by cliffs, the beach offers a stunning environment of tranquility and serenity. In comparison with the above beaches, Santa Croce has a few beach bars that rent sunbeds and umbrellas as well but the atmosphere there is quieter.
Wander the Charming Streets
The best way to explore a town is on foot. You can admire the shops, cafés, and monuments of each place. Do not miss wandering in the streets of Amalfi and let the beauty surprise you. Begin your walk from the center of the town, where you will find many attractions. Cross the main road called Lorenzo Milano which hosts a variety of shops, cafés and restaurants. This road is closed to traffic, which makes it even more appealing for those who want to take a relaxing walk.
Wander through the narrow streets and climb staircases where you will meet local shops selling ceramics, paper items, and limoncello. Amalfi is known for its art of ceramics, creating colorful plates, vases, and other handmade items.
Head to the main square of the town, the Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral. Nearby, you will find the Paper Museum, which represents the tradition and techniques of paper making.
Visit Villa Rufolo in Ravello
Villa Rufolo is one great monument to visit. It is located in Ravello and was built in the 13th century by the Rufolo family, who were rich dealers of that time. It has gone through many renovations through the years and today consists of marvelous gardens, and towers. Wander in the villa’s gardens featuring exotic plants and reach the terrace, a place that offers a great view of the Amalfi Coast and the surrounding area.
One of the most known towers in the villa is the Torre Maggiore, the tallest structure in the area. Once you climb it, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view.
The villa hosts events during the Ravello festival that include concerts and performances in the gardens. This great site is open every day from 9 am to 7:30 pm and the entrance fee is 8 €.
Experience Local Festivals
Amalfi hosts a variety of festivals all year round. The Festa di Sant’ Andrea, is one of the most popular festivals in town. Taking place every year, on June 26 and 27, the festival reflects the respect that locals have for the Saint. It’s a great opportunity to connect with locals and feel welcomed by the community.
For the lovers of art, every June to July, the Amalfi Coast Festival takes place. It’s a celebration where musicians, artists, and writers gather and exhibit a variety of events. The participants can attend some workshops and seminars like piano lessons, and cooking classes, or even reveal their talent by singing or showcasing their artifacts. You can attend a concert or participate in a ceramic lesson.
From August 31 to September 1, the Byzantine New Year festival takes place. Every year, Amalfi with the rejoin of Atrani, creates a medieval atmosphere in town to celebrate the Byzantine Heritage. Visitors can even participate in the parade and honor the culture of the locals, attend talks about the history as well as taste the local cuisine and participate in workshops focusing on traditional crafts.
Taste Local Wines
A great part of the culture of Amalfi is the wine production. The area has many grape varieties to taste such as Falanghina, Aglianico, and Biancolella, which are not commonly found elsewhere. Besides that, many wineries offer great views of vineyards, the coastline, and the surrounding landscape that can enhance the whole wine-tasting experience.
One of the most known wineries in the region is the Marisa Cuomo Winery. The tour includes a visit to the estate’s cellars and vineyards, a taste of the unique flavor of its extreme wines as well as a taste of the gastronomic specialties of Furore.
Tenuta San Francesco is another winery constructed in 2004. You can taste there the Costa d’Amalfi DOC wines, homemade salami, cheese, and other seasonal local farm products. The experience includes a tour guide, friendly staff ready to serve you as well as cooking classes. You must book in advance your visit there.
Le Vigne di Raito is an organic and biodynamic winery, founded in 2001 and operated by Patrizia Malanga who ensures an unforgettable experience for visitors. It produces red and rose wine as well as lemon jams. You can have a guided tour, wine tasting, and even private dinners and events.
Explore the Fiordo di Furore
Fiodro di Furore is one of the most beautiful highlights of Amalfi. It is a bathing and boating spot that you can visit for swimming and for taking some amazing pictures. The name Furore comes from Latin meaning Terra Furoris (Land of Fury) as the waves crashing off the cliffs created a deafening sound. It is something like a river with a stone-built bridge above it. The clear waters and its depth provoke many to dive from the surrounding cliffs. There is also a small coastline accessible from a steep staircase where you can relax.
You can also rent a kayak from Amalfi to get there which is truly a fantastic experience. Do not miss visiting this magnificent place as well as the village Furore which houses colorful houses and an amazing view of the Amalfi Coast.
Visit the Church of San Giovanni del Toro
The church of San Giovanni del Toro was built in the 11th century. It was destroyed due to an earthquake but restored in 1715. The church took its name from John the Apostle, and the word Il Toro is due to the old area in which it was built. The location of the church is just 5 minutes away from the main square. On the outside, San Giovani del Toro has a notable facade with a triple portal, a graceful bell tower, and three apses accessible by a staircase. The interior is decorated with 13th- and 14th-century wall paintings and mosaics. Especially beautiful is the 12th-century pergamo by Alfano da Termoli, as well as the 14th-century frescoes in the crypt’s apse. The church of San Giovanni del Toro opens upon request.
Take a cooking class
Taking cooking classes in a region like Amalfi offers a variety of benefits. Usually, the cooking classes offer fresh local ingredients letting you understand how these, can be prepared for creating a delicious plate. You can deepen into the culture of the Amalfi region by learning recipes and the traditions behind the plates, while also you can try to make your own. After that, you can enjoy your meal accompanied by a glass of local wine. Usually, the cooking classes are consisted of a group of people. You will have guidance from experts on how to make handmade pasta, pizza, and other traditional food while being in a place with a breathtaking view.
Explore Amalfi with a scooter
Exploring the Amalfi with a scooter is a fun experience. You can see all the highlights of the town while also visiting the nearby places at your own pace. A scooter offers you the flexibility to stop wherever you want, eat a meal, or take photos at some of the most beautiful places. By choosing to navigate with a scooter you can reduce your time on the road, pay less than a car rental, and find easier parking. Many companies provide scooter rental services as well as helmets and help you design the route that you want to cross. Some of them, charge you a small fee for a pickup from your place.
Day Trips from Amalfi
There are many beautiful towns nearby Amalfi that you can visit during your holidays as a day trip.
Capri
Capri is one popular island about 40 minutes away from Amalfi by ferry. It is divided into two main towns, the Capri and Anacapri, each one of them with the same vibe but with a unique character. Capri is a known touristic attraction with many shops, cafeterias and restaurants where people can enjoy their time and relax. Capri provides you with the Cathedral of Santo Stefano, the main church playing an important role as a historical site of the town. A must-visit is the Gardens of Augustus, hosting many Mediterranean plants, amazing paths, and terraces with a breathtaking view of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Anacapri is a more historic place holding a rich history connected to Villa San Michele having a stunning view of the Bay of Naples. Besides sightseeing, you can also do many activities including swimming, hiking, shopping, and dining.
Sorrento
Another worth visiting place is the Sorrento, a town accessible by bus or a ferry, operating mostly in the summer months. Sorrento has many beauties to see by combining a mix of the rich history and the modern lifestyle that it holds. One of the highlights of the town you should visit is Sedile Dominova, a historic building that was built in 1319 for the noble community to discuss about politics and other important themes. The building featuring an elegant architecture, stands till today for visitors to explore it and locals to play cards.
Ravello
Amongst many others, you should visit Ravello, an attractive town located on the Amalfi Coast. The town houses a variety of magnificent villas you should visit such as Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo as well as the Duomo di Ravello. This cathedral is dedicated to Saint Pantaleon and is characterized by an attractive architecture and a stunning door. By visiting Ravello you also get the chance to do many activities such as hiking, shopping and dining. It would be a great idea to visit Ravello during summer months where the Ravello festival is taking pace. It’s an annual, popular celebration featuring performances by musicians and other artists.
Positano
Positano is a magnificent town just 16km away from Amalfi. Do not miss the chance to visit it and admire its ancient history as well as try some activities that will assist you in exploring the surrounding area. The church of Santa Maria Assunta is a cultural highlight of the town that was constructed in the 10th century. It’s a piece of art for the area, featuring a mix of styles that you can note on the exterior and interior as well. Take a moment to observe the Madonna di Positano on the inside, an icon dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Positano is accompanied by the Tyrrhenian Sea, providing people with many water sports activities such as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. However, it is also a town built on a hill, a fact that makes it ideal for hiking and specifically it is near the Path of Gods, a well-known hiking trail.
Where to Eat in Amalfi
A joyful way to experience the culture and tradition of a place could be by tasting its culinary delicacies. Amalfi has many traditional plates to taste that are accompanied by a wonderful view of the sea, local wines, and pleasant personalities to serve you.
A top-rated restaurant where you will enjoy your time is the Ristorante Marina Grande. It is located next to the sea, really close to the water and the center of Amalfi. The staff is friendly and welcoming, the food is prepared in detail and the atmosphere is warm. A must-try specialty you should taste is the Spaghetti alle Vongole, which consists of Spaghetti with fresh clams as well as other seafood dishes that are made with fresh ingredients.
Ristorante Savo is another popular restaurant with high ratings that you should not miss visiting. Its high-quality food will not disappoint you while also the staff of the restaurant is very friendly and warm. One of the restaurant’s most-known dishes is the Risotto Pescatore, a seafood risotto that includes mostly octopus and squid.
Ristorante Lido Azzurro is another place to taste delicious, authentic seafood. The menu consists of many delicious plates with highly noted to be those that contain grilled Fish. Besides that, the restaurant also serves homemade pizza. The staff is very warm, and the restaurant’s character is pet-friendly.
Where to Stay in Amalfi
Even if Amalfi is a tourist town which is usually followed by high prices, it can still offer many accommodation places based on each one’s budget or general preferences.
Hotel Santa Caterina is a hotel located close to the center of the town, providing a panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea. The rooms are spacious, bright, and comfortable with an elegant design.
For more budget-conscious people, there is Hotel Miramalfi. A hotel with a great view of the Amalfi Coast and comfortable rooms decorated with Mediterranean-style colors and details.
Only 600 meters away from the town center, you can book your accommodation in Hotel Bellevue Suite. It is a hotel consisting of spacious rooms with air conditioning and a minibar as well as an individual balcony.
In Amalfi, you will find many guesthouses such as Residenza Amalphia. The Residenza Amalphia is a guesthouse known for its excellent service and comfortable rooms. It has a welcoming atmosphere.
The Best Time to Visit Amalfi
Spring and Autumn are the ideal seasons since the weather is pleasant and the crowd convenient while Summer is the peak season and Winter is more isolated.
Amalfi in Winter
Autumn is a good choice to visit Amalfi since the temperature is still warm and the day is full which can help you explore many things and navigate easily. However, the ferries limit their itineraries which makes it a bit difficult to navigate to the nearby towns. Besides that, in Autumn the sea remains warm from the hot summer months, but the weather might get unpredictable so be ready for some rainy days.
Amalfi in Winter
In winter, many people avoid visiting Amalfi and that’s because many shops, restaurants, and cafeterias close. The temperatures are cooler, and the day gets smaller. However, if someone needs quiet and relaxation Amalfi can become a perfect destination, especially since the prices are lower. People can still do some activities like hiking or navigating into the town and have fun.
Amalfi in Summer
Summer is the season with the most people. The atmosphere is livelier since many festivals take place and all shops are open. All activities are available, and the most fun ones are those that are related to the sea. Note, that besides the benefits that summer has, the temperature can get much higher and that can be less easy for someone to navigate. Furthermore, in the summer months the prices start to increase, so if you prefer a budget-friendly place to visit this might not be the right time for you.
Amalfi in Spring
Spring has something special when it comes to visiting this town. The flowers are blooming, and the weather is getting warmer. The temperatures are ideal for exploring the town which does not have many people. The weather might get a bit rainy but that won’t last for long.
FAQ about Amalfi
What is the best way to get to Amalfi?
Amalfi is reachable in many ways since it’s a popular tourist destination. There is a variety of transportation ways to reach it from Naples depending on your preferences and budget. A direct bus lasts about 2 hours while you can also choose a quicker way and take a bus to Sorrento and then reach Amalfi by train and save about half an hour. By choosing a ferry the time is the same. However, you will have the opportunity to admire the view of the Amalfi Coast and take a quick look at the towns between. The quickest way to reach Amalfi is an hour and 20 minutes by private transfer or by renting a car and driving. If preferring to dedicate more time to the route you can use Naples as the starting point and reach several other towns, like Salerno, Positano, Ravello, and Praiano amongst others. Reach each one of them you desire by bus and from there, the most common and exciting way to reach the town is by ferry.
Is Amalfi a walkable town?
Yes. Amalfi is in general a walkable town. It is small in extent while most of the attractions are close to each other. Some roads such as Lorenzo Milano have strict restrictions about the means of transportation, for visitors and especially families to have fun and enjoy their time. However, the town has many uphill and stairs. For these cases, consider wearing comfortable shoes or if allowed, navigate with a scooter that can move easily in the narrow alleys.
Are there any beaches in Amalfi?
Amalfi is the main town of the popular Amalfi Coast. It has many beaches the main to be the Marina Grande. Lido delle Sirene is for those seeking a less crowded place to relax. La Marinella is a less-known beach located in Amalfi town near the restaurant La Marinella.
What is the best time of year to visit Amalfi?
The best season to reach it is in the shoulder months (Autumn-Spring) because it combines pleasant weather with warm temperatures as well as it is not that crowded, and the prices are reasonable.
Are there any safety concerns for tourists?
In general, Amalfi has a low crime rate, being a convenient destination for everyone mainly for families. One thing you should consider is pickpocketing which appears mostly in crowded areas. Make sure to be cautious with your belongings. If visiting a place inform yourself about the health services that are provided such as facilities and local emergency numbers.
Can I use public transportation to get around?
Amalfi provides you with a variety of means of transportation to get around the town and also to reach nearby towns. Even if it is considered a walkable town, you can always rent a scooter that will make your holidays easier by climbing uphill and getting to the highest point of the town.
What are the local customs and etiquette?
Italians are in general polite people and very welcoming. Italians greet each other with a handshake and always say “Buongiorno” and “Buonasera” when entering a place.
Their eating habits are stable, eating lunch from 1 PM to 3 PM and dinner around 8 PM.
When visiting monuments like churches, note that it’s better to dress modestly since locals pay attention to that.
Make sure that you don’t litter the area since the town is known for its natural beauty and locals want to preserve it that way.
Is it necessary to book accommodations in advance?
Yes. It is necessary to book your accommodation in advance, especially when visiting in peak season. Being a very popular tourist destination, villas, hotels, and guesthouses fill up instantly in the summer months.
Are there any kid-friendly activities in Amalfi?
A family can have a great time in Amalfi since it provides a variety of options for everyone. There are beaches like La Marinella, with shallow and calm waters where kids can play with no danger. Many restaurants include a menu created especially for kids. For wandering around, families can visit the Paper Museum, where kids can learn about traditional methods used for paper production as well as participate in workshops. Parco “La Pineta” is a greenery place full of colorful flowers where families can have a picnic, kids can play, and parents can relax.
What should I wear when visiting Amalfi?
Depending on the month that someone chooses to visit Amalfi, the dress code varies. If visiting in the summer months, consider wearing light, breathable clothes such as linen or cotton ones. Midi dresses with classic, Italian prints are those that will make you blend in with the area’s culture. Colorful shirts and linen trousers are a must to look appealing and be comfortable at the same time. As it concerns accessorize, wear sunglasses and definitely hat for protection against the sun. Lastly, comfortable shoes are a must since the town is walkable and amongst the activities you can also hike.
Is amalfi coast expensive?
Amalfi coast is generally considered an expensive place due to its popularity. However, the prices can vary depending on the time that you choose to visit the town as well as on the activities that you want to try. People can spend from 70 € to 400 € per day to enjoy their time. Schedule in advance your transportation ways, meals, and sightseeing.
Is Amalfi worth visiting?
Yes, Amalfi is a town that you must visit due to its many beauties. Depending on the season that someone wants to get there, the town can provide you with a vibrant, lively lifestyle or a quiet, relaxing one.
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