Experiences
Amalfi Coast: the best things to do and where to stay
Villages clinging to the cliffs, a hike high above the sea and boats to Capri. How to plan your trip to the Amalfi Coast, and where to stay in Positano, Amalfi and Ravello.
The bus takes yet another hairpin and the sea is right below the window. Around the next headland Positano appears, houses in pink, yellow and white stacked down the steep slope to a little beach. It is impossible not to go quiet.
The Amalfi Coast south of Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The road is narrow, and the best way to experience the coast is often from the water or the paths above it. Here is what to do and where to stay.
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The best things to do on the Amalfi Coast
Book the experience: See boat trips and activities in Positano
The Path of the Gods
The Sentiero degli Dei runs from Bomerano in the hills above the coast to Nocelle above Positano. It follows the mountainside high above the sea, with views the whole way. Allow two to three hours, and finish with the steps down to Positano if your legs allow.
Boats to Capri and along the coast
Boats run from Positano and Amalfi along the coast and across to Capri. A private boat trip gives you the grottoes, swimming spots and views of the villages from the water.
Ravello
Ravello sits high above Amalfi and is quieter than the towns by the sea. Visit the gardens of Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, where a terrace lined with statues hangs over the sea.
Amalfi and its lemons
The town of Amalfi has a grand cathedral and narrow lanes. The coast is famous for its huge lemons, and you will find limoncello and lemon cakes everywhere.
How to get around
Boat: the most relaxed way to travel between Positano, Amalfi and Salerno in summer.
Bus: the blue SITA buses run along the coast road. Cheap, but often full.
Car: narrow roads and very little parking. Many people leave the car behind.
Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast
Positano is the best known and liveliest, Amalfi is practical for boats and buses, and Ravello is calm and high above the sea.
Poseidon Hotel
Overlooking Positano.
Poseidon Hotel
The Poseidon is in Positano with views over the town and the sea, and has an outdoor pool on the terrace. The beach and restaurants are a walk downhill.
Book your stay: See rooms at Poseidon Hotel
Santa Caterina
On the cliffs near Amalfi.
Santa Caterina
Santa Caterina stands on the cliff just outside Amalfi, with terraces stepping down to the sea and its own bathing spot at the water. A classic choice if you want to swim straight off the rocks.
Book your stay: See rooms at Santa Caterina
Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast
Caruso is in Ravello, high above the sea, in an old palazzo. It is known for its pool looking straight out over the coast and is one of the most famous hotels on the Amalfi Coast.
Book your stay: See rooms at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast
When is the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast?
May, June and September: warm, the boats are running and there are slightly fewer people than in high season.
July and August: the hottest and busiest. Book hotels and boats early.
Winter: quiet, but many hotels and restaurants are closed.
Amalfi Coast FAQ
Where should I stay on the Amalfi Coast?
Positano for atmosphere and the beach, Amalfi for transport links and Ravello for peace and views.
How do I get around?
By boat in summer, or on the SITA buses along the coast road.
What is the Path of the Gods?
A hike high above the coast between Bomerano and Nocelle, above Positano.
Can I take a day trip to Capri?
Yes, boats leave from Positano and Amalfi.
When is the season?
From April to October. Many hotels close in winter.