Ah, the Amalfi Coast. It’s all been written before: not just by travel editors, nor poets and artists for that matter - all have swooned at this corner of Italy. It really is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline anywhere, a testament to the joys of Italian-ism, with verdant landscapes that produce exquisite culinary experiences, enviable scenic drama at every turn, and endless, heart-moving idyllicism. You will not be the first to fall in love here, nor the last; though in these modern times, the draw is, predictably, great. Its main calling points, that is Amalfi, Positano, Maiori and the little coastal roads that connect them, are simply stuffed with eager visitors over the summer months.
There are ways to beat the crowds however, and practice a more responsible approach to tourism. Off-season is just as beautiful as peak summer, only everywhere is just a little bit less manic, and the strain on local infrastructure lessened. Public transport is also excellent in these parts, as are the hiking opportunities. Below are some lesser-known trip ideas, so you can enjoy the beauty of this unique coastline in the best way possible.
A stunning cliff-hugging fishing village that was once the favourite of the Amalfi dukes, Praiano is that perfect blend of pretty and low key. With no real centre, it’s a colourful collection of whitewashed houses, harbouring a flourishing arts scene plus a clutch of chilled-out bars and restaurants. It may not be the most hidden of hidden gems, but it’s definitely on the quieter side of this bustling coastline.
Clinging to the cliffside is this jewel on the Amalfi coast. The magic really happens down by the water’s edge, though the town does extend high onto the hillside. At the bottom, a clutch of homes and a small beach paint a picture of effortless beauty. Noted also is that this small town is the birthplace of the sweet sfogliatella. Don’t miss the Grotta dello Smeraldo, a mesmerising sea cave illuminated by emerald waters.
Perched high above the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is a breathtaking retreat offering panoramic views and timeless elegance. Its historic villas with their lush gardens are a centrepiece of aristocratic splendour: Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone provide picture-perfect sea-view terraces.Don’t miss the Ravello Music Festival, where world-class musicians perform against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.
Atrani embodies all that is great about this coastline: stellar views, pastel-coloured townhouses, piazzas and duomos and bucketloads of Italian charms. Get lost in the streets and alleyways, the many, many flights of stairs, the impeccable beauty of it all; it was enough to seduce the painter Escher, who saw the cascading homes and fluttering, diagonal shadows as the perfect muse for a clutch of paintings.
Known as the painted town of the Amalfi coast, you’ll find a host of colourful murals dotted all around the village. Though visit worthy in itself, tear yourself away and head towards the sea. The small beach here is nothing short of stunning, framed by two vast rocky crags, worked by a small but steady mountain stream, forming the perfect calm cove to splosh in.
High in the mountains along the coast, Nocelle is a relatively secluded hamlet; there’s only one winding road leading to Positano. It’s a sleepy place, with just a handful of restaurants and a mini-market. Most visitors are hikers, tackling the beautiful Path of the Gods, exploring the small alleys of the village to seek out a place for refreshments. Nocelle really feels a world away from Positano and Amalfi.
Winding its way through the lush hillsides of the Amalfi Coast, the Path of the Lemons offers an alluring mix of gorgeous views and citrus-scented climes. Centuries-old mule paths wind their way from Minori to Maiori, through the lemon groves that are so iconic to the region. The views are, of course, breathtaking. If you’re lucky, you may meet some of the producers along the way, with a chance to buy limoncello and other citrus-y goods right from the maker.
This wonderfully laid-back fishing village is a great coastal hideaway from the more busy towns along the Amalfi Coast. It has a more authentic feel, a favourite of Italian holidaymakers who are perhaps a little more wise to the bustle of Amalfi or Positano. Make it your base and you’ll be rewarded with a snapshot of real Italian life, fantastic food, and fewer tourists.
Head to the historic epicentre of Amalfi, the Piazza del Duomo, and pick up the scent of sweet goods and rich coffee from this stalwart pasticceria. Untouched since 1830, this time warp treat will guide you through a host of local sweet delicacies. Local pastries like the Sfogliatella Santa Rosa, classic limoncello, icy granita di limone, and tangy frutti canditi are all must-try treats for true Amalfi flavours.
There are plenty of famous wine regions in Italy, yet the Amalfi Coast is a true underdog. Alight at this precariously perched vineyard, worth it for the views alone. Tucked high above Furore, not widely-known native grapes like Ripoli, Fenile or Pere Palummo are used to make crisp whites and deep reds, to be tasted in front of breathtaking views.
This affable Amalfi village is another great stop on any tour of the coastline, and not just for the rare opportunity to lie on a decent-sized beach. For in the mills above the town, Minori produces its famous handmade pasta. Head to any of the restaurants to sample delicious pasta dishes, with the classic ‘ndunderi being a local favourite.
One of the best-loved seafood restaurants in Amalfi, this unfussy spot cooks up the best catches of the day with gorgeous terrace views to boot.
It’s hard to bridge the gap between quality and price in Positano, but this charming restaurant does just that. Expect affordable local dishes put together with flair.
High in the mountains above Positano lies this charming trattoria. Expect family-run goodness with a palette that mixes the best of sea and mountain.
Along Italy’s northwestern coast is Liguria, famed for its Riviera. This is the glitzy starlet of the country’s coastline, where dramatic cliffs and irresistible fishing villages have long been a draw for stylish travellers. Though the likes of Cinque Terre are well-travelled, there are still hidden gems to uncover, to beat the tourist trappings. Similarly, there’s a clutch of small towns and villages along the coastline that boast similar beauty, oft overlooked for the more famous five villages. Discover these destinations here, for an authentic experience of Liguria.
Read guideDiscover the road from Calabria to Sicily. This itinerary follows the route of our film with singer-songwriter Jack Savoretti. We’ve added a few extra locations so you can see the best of this corner of Italy, with restaurant recommendations and hidden gems, plus in-the-know tips so you can indulge in an authentic side of this country…
Read guideAt the heel of Italy is this gorgeous coastal region, famed for sandy beaches, remarkable sea grottoes, and beautiful historic towns. Sink into Puglian charms, with the best places to eat, lesser-known coastal picks, and all the insights you need to have the most authentic getaway in this southern corner of Italy.
Read guideNew BIRRA MORETTI
Discover the new BIRRA MORETTI Sale Di Mare, an unfiltered premium lager with a hint of Italian sea salt. Perfectly paired to the flavour and style of the Italian coast, this is full-flavoured refreshment with every sip.
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