The aroma of lemons, the pop of pastel houses, the bustle of Italian drivers on narrow alleys—ahhh, you’re dreaming of Amalfi. If you’ve finally decided to explore this magnificent Mediterranean gem, you’ll need to plan ahead, so you don’t miss any of the best things to do in Amalfi Coast.
From Sorrento and Positano to Ravello and Maiori, the towns along the Amalfi Coast offer activities that range from luxurious to simple yet breathtaking. We’ve created this guide with the most incredible things to do on the Amalfi Coast for first-timers—and return visitors who missed a few of these local favorites. So brush up on your Italian phrases, get that flight booked, and download the Rosetta Stone App!
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Towns with the best things to do in Amalfi Coast
Before we share all of our favorite things to do in Amalfi Coast, Italy, we ought to mention that there are several towns you can visit as you decide how to build your itinerary. Some don’t consider Sorrento to be a true part of the Amalfi Coast, but we do, and you’ll understand why when you arrive.
Here are the towns we recommend visiting as you plan what to do in Amalfi:
- Amalfi: Sometimes called “Amalfi Town,” it’s a highly recommended place to visit or stay. The cathedral and beaches are a big draw, but we also like that it’s further down the coast, giving you more to explore along the way.
- Atrani: We love how picturesque this tiny town with a great beach is—plus it’s incredibly walkable and less overrun by tourists.
- Minori & Maiori: These cheaper, lesser-known towns are often overlooked, which makes them less crowded and overpriced. They’re like a miniature Positano, and there’s a beautiful hiking trail that connects them if you’re an outdoorsy traveler.
- Positano: This is the biggest, most well-known, and most-photographed town. Marina Grande is the popular beach everyone goes to, and wandering through the colorful streets is definitely recommended.
- Praiano: This smaller town is preferred by locals. You’ll find some awesome beaches here and stunning views thanks to its central location.
- Ravello: Located in the mountains instead of on the beach, you get unparalleled views from up here. There are villas to explore, hiking trails to wander, and cozy B&Bs to stay in.
- Sorrento: On the north side of Amalfi, this is not far from Naples. We love how close this southern Italian town is to Rome, and you’ll get all the Amalfi vibes: lemons, oleander blooms, vintage shops, coastal views, and beaches.
- Vietri Sul Mare: Another tiny town near Salerno, it’s much further from the busy tourist cities along the Amalfi Coast, which makes it appealing. You’ll find generational businesses here, distinct local culture, and the best sunsets.
>>Explore the best cities to visit in Italy after you’ve relaxed in Amalfi!
1. Explore the villa and crypts beneath Positano’s Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta
The colorful majolica tiles on the cupola (dome) of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta catch the eye of anyone exploring Positano. Many people step into the church not knowing there are amazing Roman ruins to explore beneath it. Now you do, and you’ll want to make time to explore them. It’s an ideal thing to do in Positano for solo travelers or families with kids!
Dating back to the first century B.C., this lavish Roman villa shows remnants of a bath, murals, and areas where the dead were buried in crypts in more recent centuries. You might also see remnants of the impact of an earthquake in 62 A.D and the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. And kids will have fun trying to spot delfini (dolphins) in the murals that can still be seen on the walls. Tickets can be booked easily online and cost about €15 per person.
2. Wander through the stunning grounds of Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo in Ravello
Ravello is located atop the mountain peak, which means you come here for more natural views and peaceful settings. The roads are steep and windy, so it’s best to hire a driver who knows the area, but exploring the giardini (gardens) in the villas up here will be well worth the effort. The 11th-century Villa Cimbrone functions as a luxury hotel that has catered to the likes of Jackie Kennedy, Humphrey Bogart, Truman Capote, Grace Kelly, and others. Anyone can explore the serene gardens here or dine in their bespoke restaurant, so definitely take advantage of their hospitality. Don’t skip the most famous view from Terrazza dell’Infinito!
You’ll also want to head over to Villa Rufolo, which is just a 10-minute walk from Villa Cimbrone. Restored by a Scottish Lord in the 1800s, this medieval villa now allows visitors like you to climb the tower for the highest view in Ravello. The tower doubles as a museum, so you get a journey through the villa’s history as you climb. Make sure to get a map of the grounds when you arrive as there aren’t a lot of signs for attractions like the theater, Turkish bath, knights hall, and belvedere gardens.
3. Spend a day exploring the grottos, shops, and churches in Capri
When in Amalfi, go to Capri! A day trip to Capri is an absolute must in any list of things to do on the Amalfi Coast. Capri is a luxurious island with Roman ruins, cliffside views, breathtaking grottoes, and delicious cuisine. Every major city from Naples to Sorrento and Praiano has tours or ferries that can take you to Capri for the day. You can even rent your own barca (boat) if you’re a confident “captain.”
Before you arrive, plan ahead and reserve your ticket to explore the famed Blue Grotto, which can only be toured with specific companies at the departure point. Some companies also offer tours of the other grottoes, so find the one that suits you best. You can spend some time on Capri’s Marina Grande spiaggia (beach), shop for designer clothes and accessories on Via Camerelle, or explore artisan shops for handicrafts on Via le Botteghe. However, we highly recommend riding the Monte Solaro chairlift before seeing the stunning majolica floor in Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo.
4. Sunbathe on one of the best Amalfi Coast beaches
There is no shortage of beaches in Amalfi. The question is simply: What kind of experience do you prefer? Despite the natural topography of the Amalfi Coast, there are stretches of long beaches, but you can expect them to be busy and operated by beach clubs. The advantage is you can rent ombrelli (umbrellas) and lounge chairs, and there may be amenities like bagni (bathrooms) and restaurants. However, you might prefer more secluded beaches that will take some effort to get to.
Marina Grande in Positano is the most famous and popular spiagga (beach), so expect all the amenities and crowds. But it might be your best option if you have limited time in Amalfi and you’re staying in Positano. Otherwise, we recommend heading to Spiaggia Arienzo, a nearby, tinier beach accessible by steps or ferry with umbrellas for rent. You can also go to Spiaggia di Tordigliano which isn’t near a major city, making it much less crowded than most. We also like Il Duoglio Spiaggia as a less busy beach that has a small restaurant at the bottom of the steps.
5. Dine on Italian cuisine with a cliffside view to remember
You’ll go to Amalfi for the views, so make sure to splurge on a lunch or dinner that feeds your eyes as much as your belly. From Sorrento to Salerno, there are cliffside restaurants on the Amalfi Coast that vary in quality but rival each other with panoramic views. In Amalfi Town, you’ll find the Michelin-starred Sensi Restaurant, where lighted trees surround the terrace, and chefs serve innovative dishes.
If you only make it as far as Sorrento, then go to La Terrazza for affordable prices paired with the best sunset panorama over the Mediterranean. On the rooftop of Positano’s Hotel Poseidon, you’ll find our favorite place to eat with an unmatched vista: Il Tridente. And if you’re in Praiano, head to Ristorante Il Pino for serene views and impeccably prepared dishes.
>> Ask your waiter for the best place to take your evening passeggiata!
6. Wander the Senterio degli Dei (Path of the Gods) in the hills above Praiano
Even if you’re not an avid hiker, we can’t skip recommending getting above the cities of Amalfi and into the hills. The views are truly breathtaking and different from what you see below on the beaches. Not to mention it’s nice to find free things to do in Amalfi Coast!
The most famous hiking trail is known as the Path of the Gods, and you’ll find it above Praiano in Bomerano di Agerola. You can take a bus up here or book a guided tour that’s often combined with a meal at a local restaurant. If you go on your own, you’ll follow the marked path and end in Nocelle, which is in the hills east of Positano. Most people take 2 to 4 hours to explore this trail as the vista is worth taking in at an easy pace.
7. Find the permanent nativity scenes throughout Amalfi
St. Francis of Assisi is credited with making nativities famous, and no one takes more pride in presepi (nativity scenes) than southern Italians. A popular thing to do in Naples is to explore Via dei Presepi, a street filled with shops that specialize in nativities. But when you’re on the Amalfi Coast, you can see some incredibly unique scenes for free if you keep your eyes peeled.
In the town of Amalfi, there are two permanent nativities set within large fountains that we recommend searching for: at La Fontana De Cape E Ciucci (permanent) and nearby at Largo Scario (during Christmas). Along the road to Praiano at Grotta del Diavolo, the largest permanent nativity has been carved into and built on the rocks, making it feel like a fairyland. And on the road between Fornillo Beach and Marina Grande in Positano, there’s a small grotto with a nativity carved into the rock that’s often lit up at night.
8. Soak in the thermal baths on Isola d’Ischia
Most first-time travelers to Amalfi barely make time to explore Capri. Even fewer head to the island of Ischia since it’s located near Naples. But if you have the time, we definitely recommend exploring this beautiful island that’s much less crowded and much cheaper than Capri. Ferries run between Ischia and Sorrento or Positano in the summer, and the trip takes about 2 hours. But you can also charter a speedboat and get there faster.
Our favorite activity in Ischia is to soak in any of the thermal baths or hot springs. Negombo Park is the most popular place thanks to the captivating gardens with sculptures. But Giardini Poseidon Terme is also worth checking out since it’s the largest of the hot springs and easily accessible from Forio. Ischia is bigger than Capri, so expect to find plenty of hiking trails and beaches to enjoy too.
9. Dive into naval history at Antico Arsenale della Repubblica di Amalfi
It’s no secret that the Amalfi Coast is an expensive place to visit, but we know a few insider tips of places you can explore for free or cheap. One of those places is Antico Arsenale della Repubblica di Amalfi, a museum of Italian naval history. For just a few euros, you can explore some of the most unique maritime artifacts displayed in an ancient building dating back to 1042 A.D.!
Much of the original shipyard remains today, and you’ll see original artwork that shows how it looked centuries ago. Henry Ford may think he invented the assembly line, but Amalfi shipbuilders mastered it centuries ago. No matter your age, learning about the galleys and merchant ships built here and how they influenced the area’s history will be unforgettable.
10. Try an Amalfi Coast specialty dish: pasta al limone (lemon pasta)
Lemons are life in Amalfi. The Campania region has famously been home to lemons for centuries, and there are two main varieties: sfusato d’Amalfi (all around Amalfi) and femminello Sorrentino (mostly in Sorrento). The latter is slightly sweeter, which is why it’s prized for making limoncello.
But the incredible dish you need to try when you’re staying in Southern Italy is pasta al limone. Chefs have a few ways to prepare this light, aromatic, addicting pasta. They cook the linguine or spaghetti in water with lemons, then they create a creamy sauce using ricotta, goat cheese, or even cream. Some may add parsley, basil, or lemon zest, too. However it’s prepared, if you see a lemon pasta dish on the menu, just order it. You won’t be disappointed.
>> Try out these helpful phrases for ordering food in Italian!
11. Sail on the azure Mediterranean waters at sunset
You probably go to Amalfi for those impeccable vistas of cliffside homes, bright flowers, sunny skies, and deep blue waters. You may as well enjoy them all from a different perspective. One of the most iconic things to do in Amalfi is to book a private or small group boat tour of the coast at sunset. The sky paints colors against the hues of blue in the sea, making it a night to remember.
With numerous boat companies operating in every city along the coastline, you can find one that suits your preference. Honeymoon couples might prefer a private, romantic atmosphere with a little champagne and a destination that’s more secluded. A group of friends might prefer a larger boat tour to meet other travelers while enjoying vino (wine) as the sun fades beyond the horizon.
12. Swim beneath the secluded waterfall known as Cascatella di Punta Lagno
By now you know that renting a boat (usually with a captain) to do some exploring is a popular thing to do on the Amalfi Coast. If you decide to tour the coastline, you might ask about heading up towards Sorrento—or down towards Positano as the case may be. Located on a rocky peninsula at the tip of the Amalfi Coast is a waterfall that’s only accessible by boat.
For centuries, sailors have stopped here to get fresh water on their voyages along the Italian coast. Today, it’s mostly a tourist attraction for those who know. In the summer, the Punta Lagno waterfall can get very busy, so you might try this in the off-season. But it’s an incredibly beautiful spot to swim beneath a waterfall that pours right into the sea.
13. Tour a delightful lemon grove and learn to cook with a nonna
Many people come to the Amalfi Coast, only visit Positano, and miss out on other amazing things to do. One of those is the Amalfi Lemon Experience. In the hills above Amalfi Town, you can book an experience to explore a generationally-owned limone (lemon) grove and learn why lemons are so ingrained in the culture of the Amalfi Coast.
They offer a variety of tour combinations, so whether you’re traveling alone, with friends, or with kids, you’ll find something fun to do here. Book a lemon tour, a ceramic-painting class with a lemon tour, a lemon tour and wine tasting, a cooking class with a lemon tour, and many other options. Don’t miss stopping at the museum or shop to buy lemon cake, candy, or clothing!
14. Shop for hand-painted ceramics in Vietri sul Mare
In between Maiori and Salerno lies the tiny town of Vietri sul Mare. So, why bother stopping here? There’s a ceramic factory with a facade that’s lined completely with tiny tiles and many multi-generational shops where you can find ceramiche fatte a mano (handmade ceramics) at amazing prices. If a set of handcrafted Italian dishes wasn’t on your shopping list before you arrived, it just might be before you leave.
Wandering this tiny town will give you plenty of chances to snap photos and videos as colorful ceramic tiles are used to decorate stairs, homes, paths, and buildings. As you’d expect, Vietri sul Mare is home to a couple of great spiaggi (beaches) if you need to work on that tan again after you’ve shopped to your heart’s content.
15. Learn the art of making paper at Museo della Carta
If you’re looking for a cheap thing to do in Amalfi, then head to the town of Amalfi to find the Paper Museum. It’s an unusual activity that many people skip when they’re here for the sun and limoncello. But families and solo travelers alike will be amazed at what they learn about the history of papermaking. Kids and adults have fun making their own paper as a souvenir, too!
You can make a day of your trip to Amalfi Town by combining a stop here at the Museo della Carta with a tour of the lemon groves above the town. Just make sure you keep your newly made paper safe and dry if you’re heading to the beach!
16. Take an excursion to the ruins of Pompeii
Unless you’re planning to head up to Rome and beyond, the Amalfi Coast might be as close as you get to some of the most important ruins in Italy. Parco Archeologico di Pompei (Pompeii Archaeological Park) is often a popular day trip from Rome, but it’s also an ideal trip from any point along Amalfi.
Whether you’re staying in Sorrento, Praiano, or Positano, you can book a boat ride to the marina near Pompeii, or save yourself a hassle and find a tour that takes care of all the arrangements for you. The ruins left behind from the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius offer a snapshot of life at the height of the Roman Empire. A morning exploring Pompeii is definitely one of the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast.
17. Schedule an exclusive wine tour in the hills of the Amalfi Coast
You might not think of booking a tour del vino (wine tour) when you’re in Southern Italy. Some of the best wineries in Tuscany might be more of what you envisioned, but we’re here to tell you there are a few small cantine (wineries) that are worth checking out. The grapes grown along the coast are unique in flavor since they grow in volcanic soil and absorb gentle sea breezes under the hot southern sun.
- Marisa Cuomo: located in Furore; known for award-winning Fiorduva; reservations required
- Abbazia di Crapolla: located between Sorrento and Naples; extremely secluded abbey; known for Sabato Rosso; reservations required
- Le Vigne di Raito: located in Vietri sul Mare; known for Aglianico varieties of wines; brunch offered with some tours; reservations required
18. Marvel at the art and architecture of Duomo di Amalfi
The Amalfi Cathedral is one of the most popular churches to explore when you’re staying on the Amalfi Coast. Elements of this stunning church have been here since the 9th century, which means you’ll see influences of Moorish, Gothic, and Baroque architecture as it’s been added to over time. As you step inside, don’t be surprised if your breath is momentarily taken away by the gilded artwork, marble pillars, and intricate carvings.
The 62-step climb is worth every moment you spend inside this cultural and religious gem of a church. Keep an eye out for an ancient fresco on the wall and empty sarcophagi. If you head to the crypt below the church, you’ll even see human remains posed just like you’d also see in many Roman, Parisian, or Czech crypts.
19. Stand in the ruins of a Roman villa in Minori
When most people think of Roman ruins, they think of Rome, Ostia Antica, Tivoli, or other similar places. Yet in the little town of Minori, there is a small ruin called Villa Romana e Antiquarium that’s worth stopping in if you’re intrigued by how the ancients lived. It’s also a great stop if you’re the type of traveler who prefers to slowly wander through the smaller towns of the Amalfi Coast.
Floods and mud flows protected it for centuries, so you can still see some mosaic tiles used as decorations on the floor. There are several artifacts to check out and even a small museum to explore. Best of all, there’s no admission fee, so it’s a great free thing to do on the Amalfi Coast when you’re in Minori!
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