When most people think about visiting Italy, they picture the crowded streets of Rome, or the watery canals of Venice. However, Italy is a peninsula, and is surrounded by the Mediterranean sea, making it a great place for beach lovers. The Amalfi Coast is possibly the most popular destination in all of Italy. If you’re planning a trip here, you’ll certainly want to know more about the Amalfi Coast, things to do, and what to see while you’re in the area. Our guide below will walk you through some of the most popular things to do in Amalfi Coast.
Things to Do: Amalfi Coast Tours
One of the things to do in Amalfi is to take a tour of the coast itself. You can do this in a couple of ways. One popular option is to rent a car (or hire a driver) and drive the roads along the coast. However, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you can take a boat up and down the coast, exploring not just major tourist areas, but also the secluded spots that most visitors never see. For those with a thirst for adventure, exchange your boat for a kayak or a SUP and you’ll have even more fun.
Visit Sorrento
Another of the many cool things to do on the Amalfi Coast is to visit the town of Sorrento. Located in the northern reaches of the coastal stretch, Sorrento is a major tourist destination, so there will be crowds during peak travel season. However, it’s worth it to see the colorful buildings, the unique layout along the hills, the warm tile roofs soaking up the Italian sun, and the crystalline water right at the edge of the town. Away from the water, you’ll find the city’s historic cathedral is well worth a visit, as is the Museo della Tarsia Lignia, the Correale Museum, and the limoncello production area.
Colorful Positano
Wondering what to do in Amalfi? A visit to Positano should be on your itinerary if for no other reason than to see the colorful buildings marching up the hillside from the beach. You can venture into town if you want, but most of the things that you’ll be searching for, such as shopping and dining, can be done right on the beach. Not to mention the fact that the best view of town is actually from the water. If you didn’t arrive by water, rent a boat or a kayak and get out from the coast a bit to really appreciate the beauty of Positano.
A View of the Water
While Positano might be best seen from the water, Praiano is the reverse. This town is also set right into the hillside, but what makes it an Amalfi Coast must-see is the view from near the top of the hill. You can see down over the town, and then out across the blue water. It’s an incredible experience! While you’re in town, make sure to enjoy some of the ice cream the town is famous for making. Praiano is also not as much of a tourist destination as some other cities along the Amalfi Coast, so you can take your time and enjoy fewer people crowding the streets.
Visit the Coast’s Namesake
When it comes to things to do in Amalfi Coast, a visit to the coast’s namesake ranks pretty high. The town of Amalfi is truly a gem, with terracotta tile roofs and brightly colored buildings lining the hills down to the water’s edge. It’s larger than many other towns on the coast, and even boasts its own cathedral. One of the most popular pastimes here is to simply stroll the streets and check out the amazing architecture. However, there are other things to do, including shopping, dining, exploring the promenade along the water, or heading out to sea for a little bit of adventure diving.
Ravello Bound
Wondering what to see in Amalfi Coast? Ravello should be a destination on your itinerary. It’s built on terraces that ascent from the sea to the top of a tall hill, but unlike many other Amalfi Coast tourist attractions, Ravello’s hill juts into the water, providing you with stunning views from the very top. While you’re in town, make sure you check out Villa Rufolo, which dates back to Roman times. You should also explore the city’s many eateries, as well as the Piazza Centrale, where you’ll find the town’s main art gallery, as well as access to its stunning ancient cathedral.
Get in Some Beach Time
If you spend much time exploring things to do in Amalfi Coast, you’ll no doubt notice that actual beaches are few and far between. The rugged nature of the coast means that most are small and often busy during tourist season. There’s a remedy for that, thankfully! One of the best things to do in Amalfi Coast is to visit Maiori, which is home to one of the longest stretches of beach you’ll find in the region. When you’re done having fun in the sun, head up the beach to the Corso Reginna and spend some time exploring the local shops and eateries.
Boat Watching
You’ve heard of birdwatching, but one activity you might not be familiar with is boat watching. One of the best things to do in Amalfi Coast is to watch the boats in Cetara, where you’ll find a huge fleet of traditional fishing boats that departs and arrives each day. This is one of the more traditional towns in the region, and has been less affected by tourism. There are few things as calming and charming as watching the local fishermen on their brightly colored boats, bobbing against the azure of the Mediterranean Sea.
Exploring Sea Caves
Looking for things to do on the Italian coast that are less touristy? Consider exploring some of the ancient sea caves! The Grotta dello Smeraldo Cave offers actual boat tours and there’s plenty of natural sunlight pouring through the cave opening so you can see without the need of artificial light.
Ferriere Valley
Finally, if you’re on the Amalfi Coast of Italy, places to visit on your itinerary should include the Ferriere Valley, where you’ll find incredible waterfalls and tranquil forests. Few tourists make the trek to the valley, so you’ll experience less crowding, but get to know a different area of the coast.
In Conclusion
Whether you’re interested in the usual tourist destinations or you want to break out of the mold, there are things to do in Amalfi Coast to suit your needs, budget, and timeline. Plus, if you enjoy staying in Amalfi Coast luxury villas, you may also like to take a trip to the other side of the world. You can explore all that the Caribbean has to offer with villas on Barbados’ west coast, or opt to enjoy Turks and Caicos luxury rentals.
Both of these destinations allow you to plan the getaway of a lifetime, and there are some surprising parallels between the Caribbean and the Amalfi Coast. Many of the islands are just as rugged as the Amalfi Coast, and the houses are also brightly painted. The people are warm and welcoming, and there’s an immense amount of history and culture to enjoy, too.