Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations on the Amalfi Coast
With its narrow winding roads, vibrant ceramic shops, and terraced vineyards, the Amalfi Coast offers timeless allure and unforgettable vistas. Each town along the coast has its own character, from the glamour of Positano to the medieval soul of Ravello. Fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and local limoncello enhance every meal with regional flavor. This sun-soaked stretch of Italy is a feast for the senses and the soul.
Top areas to stay at on the Amalfi Coast
Positano
The most photographed town on the coast, Positano is known for its steep streets, designer boutiques, and colorful cliffside homes. Vacation rentals in Positano include luxury apartments with panoramic balconies, romantic studios, and villas with infinity pools. Staying here means waking up to sea breezes and having direct access to Spiaggia Grande. Positano is ideal for travelers seeking style, scenery, and coastal glamor.
Amalfi
At the heart of the coast lies the historic town of Amalfi, once a powerful maritime republic with a grand cathedral and bustling piazzas. Airbnbs here range from cozy townhouses to elegant waterfront suites close to the harbor. Visitors can stroll the town’s narrow alleys, visit the Paper Museum, or hop on boats to nearby Capri. Amalfi offers a blend of convenience, charm, and cultural depth.
Ravello
Perched high above the sea, Ravello is famous for its classical music festivals, stunning villas, and panoramic gardens. Vacation homes in Ravello often include terraces, courtyards, and views that stretch to the horizon. Ravello is perfect for visitors seeking tranquility and artistic inspiration.
Praiano
Located between Positano and Amalfi, Praiano is a quiet fishing village with authentic character and fewer crowds. Rentals in Praiano include terraced homes with outdoor kitchens, sea-view apartments, and family-friendly villas. Guests enjoy peaceful evenings, local trattorias, and access to hidden beaches like Marina di Praia. Praiano delivers the charm of the coast with a slower pace.
Minori
Smaller and less touristic, Minori offers an authentic local vibe with lemon orchards, Roman ruins, and a relaxed beachfront. Accommodations range from family-run apartments to stylish holiday homes near the water. The town is known for its excellent pasta, pastry shops, and easy hiking access to Ravello. Minori is ideal for travelers looking to experience the Amalfi Coast like a local.
Must-visit places and attractions on the Amalfi Coast
Villa Rufolo
Located in Ravello, Villa Rufolo is a historic estate known for its terraced gardens and sweeping sea views. The villa hosts classical concerts and is a centerpiece of the Ravello Festival. Visitors can wander through Moorish architecture and fragrant flowerbeds. Villa Rufolo is a serene and cultural highlight of the region.
Duomo di Amalfi
In the heart of Amalfi, the Duomo di Amalfi is an architectural marvel combining Romanesque, Baroque, and Byzantine styles. Its grand staircase, striped facade, and ornate interiors make it one of the coast’s most striking landmarks. The cathedral complex also includes a cloister and a museum.
Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei)
This legendary trail offers hikers breathtaking views from the cliffs above the coast, connecting Bomerano to Nocelle near Positano. The Path of the Gods takes visitors through ancient mule tracks, terraced vineyards, and sweeping panoramas of the sea. The trail is a must for nature lovers and photographers.
Fiordo di Furore
A natural fjord tucked into the cliffs, the Fiordo di Furore is one of the most unique beaches in the region. A picturesque arched bridge spans the gorge, and the tiny cove is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The site also hosts cliff diving competitions in summer.
Villa Cimbrone
Perched on a cliff in Ravello, Villa Cimbrone boasts opulent gardens and the famed Terrace of Infinity with its marble busts overlooking the sea. The villa blends medieval and romantic architecture and has hosted famous guests for over a century. Villa Cimbrone offers elegance, history, and unmatched views.
Grotta dello Smeraldo
Near Conca dei Marini, the Grotta dello Smeraldo is a sea cave illuminated by emerald-green light filtering through an underwater opening. Visitors can access the cave by elevator or boat and explore its otherworldly interior. Stalactites and submerged nativity scenes add to its unique charm.
Marina Grande Beach, Positano
The main beach of Positano, Marina Grande is lively and lined with colorful umbrellas, restaurants, and boutiques. Visitors can swim in the clear waters, rent boats, or sip aperitifs with a view of the cliffs. The beach is also a popular launch point for day trips along the coast.
Roman Villa of Minori
An archaeological treasure, the Roman Villa of Minori reveals the opulent lifestyle of the Roman elite who once vacationed on the coast. Mosaics, frescoes, and a central peristyle offer insights into 1st-century design and leisure. The villa is small but rich in detail and atmosphere.
Where to Find a Vacation Rental Near the Amalfi Coast
Sorrento, Italy
Just northwest of the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento offers easier access by train or ferry and a wide selection of accommodations. Visitors can stay in elegant apartments overlooking the Bay of Naples or hilltop villas near lemon groves. Sorrento is known for its charming old town, marinas, and vibrant piazzas. It’s a convenient base with cosmopolitan flair. Spend your evenings in a vacation rental in Sorrento with terrace views and quick access to ferry ports.
Capri, Italy
A short boat ride away, Capri is a glamorous island escape with upscale hotels, designer shops, and iconic views from the Faraglioni rocks. Visitors can explore the Blue Grotto, take a chairlift to Monte Solaro, or enjoy fine dining under the stars. Capri adds island luxury and scenic drama to any Amalfi itinerary. Relax in a villa in Capri surrounded by citrus gardens and cliffside paths.
Naples, Italy
An hour north, Naples is a vibrant and gritty metropolis with deep cultural roots, world-class museums, and the birthplace of pizza. Visitors can tour underground ruins, visit the National Archaeological Museum, or day-trip to Pompeii. Naples brings urban energy and history to contrast the coast’s serenity. Stay in an apartment in Naples nestled in the historic center or near the buzzing port.
Salerno, Italy
At the eastern gateway to the Amalfi Coast, Salerno offers a quieter city experience with excellent transit links, a beautiful promenade, and a medieval old town. The city is ideal for travelers who want to explore the coast without the high prices or crowds. Salerno is both practical and picturesque. Book a vacation rental in Salerno with sea views and walking distance to the ferry terminal.
Atrani, Italy
Just a short walk from Amalfi, Atrani is Italy’s smallest town by area and a hidden jewel of the coast. Atrani is peaceful, authentic, and perfect for travelers looking to escape the tourist trail. It’s a quiet and romantic enclave with timeless appeal. Enjoy your stay in a house in Atrani with arched terraces and views over the piazza and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Uncover Italian historical splendors and coastal wonders
The Amalfi Coast is a testament to Italy's rich past, with its charming roads and ancient landmarks that echo stories of the bygone era. For those enthusiastic about history, consider the baroque architecture and ancient fortresses by exploring airbnb in Gallipoli. Or, discover the rich academic heritage and the stunning frescoes of Scrovegni Chapel with rental properties in Padua. Every step through the Tuscan countryside narrates tales of old, waiting to be unveiled through Tuscany vacation rentals.
Coastal allure is synonymous with this region, where the charm of pastel-colored houses and the embrace of emerald waters draw one to explore more. Stroll along the waterfront and appreciate the vibrant marine life by choosing an airbnb Monterosso Al Mare. For a quieter escape, the sandy shores and calm waves beckon those looking for Santa Marinella holiday accommodation.
Elevate your Italian experience with a touch of opulence by indulging in breathtaking vistas and refined comforts. Luxuriate in the lush landscapes and captivating sunsets by selecting airbnb in Sorrento. The tranquil seascapes and elegant yachts in the harbor invite one to savor Porto Cervo holiday rentals. Not to be missed, the enchanting aura and stunning views of the sea make vacation rentals in Capri synonymous with sophistication and splendor.