‘Gaux-To The Amalfi Coast: Our Guide to Italy’s Famous Coastline

‘Gaux-To The Amalfi Coast: Our Guide to Italy’s Famous Coastline

In the world of bucket list destinations, the Amalfi Coast sits atop the majority of travelers’ lists, and it’s no surprise why. Known as Italy’s most colorful coastline, this breathtaking stretch of land is home to charming small towns, turquoise waters, and a plethora of places to experience a taste of true Italian dolce vita.

However, like many well-visited areas, the Amalfi Coast is home to a slew of tourist traps – and if you’re anything like us, eating and drinking authentically is key to an unforgettable trip. Not to worry, our team has done the hard work for you. Check out our favorite places to swim, spritz, and soak up the summer sun along Italy’s most famous shoreline.

The Bigger Picture:

The Amalfi Coast stretches 50 kilometers along Italy’s western coastline and is best known for its colorful homes, breathtaking views, and 100+ beaches. The main towns to visit are Sorrento, Positano, Praiano, Amalfi, Atrani, Ravello, and Scala. To access the Amalfi Coast, fly into Naples and taxi, rent a car, or take the local train down to the town of your choice. Choose a home base village, go from there, and be sure to walk as much as possible!

Note: During the high season, regular summer service between Salerno, Amalfi, Positano, and Capri is available by boat. As we always say, never miss an opportunity to enjoy the water!

Coffee Like the Locals:

Just like they know how to do wine, the Italians are no strangers to making delicious coffee. While you won’t really find a hipster café culture along the Coast, we recommend simply enjoying a cappuccino in bed prior to starting your day, posting up at your hotel bar, or heading out with a magazine and sitting at a local pasticceria.

• Pasticceria Pansa Amalfi – Regarded as the best on the Amalfi Coast!
• G.A.S. Bar
• Angelo Pasticceria Artigianale 1970 (Positano)
• Leone Rosso Café (Sorrento)

Lunch O’Clock:

While many get their fill from breakfast pastries, we tend to feel that lunch is non-negotiable – especially when the food is as good as it is in Italy. For fresh seafood, salads, or various Italian-inspired delights, check out one of the following spots. (Insider tip: We recommend posting up at a beach club for the day and enjoying the fare on site!)

• L’Abside (Amalfi) – Delightful trattoria with pasta and seafood focus with ample outdoor seating on an adorable square
• Ristorante La Cambusa (Positano) – Light and airy seafood spot with local wine
• Da Adolfo Beach Club (Positano) – Local delights served up at the beach
• One Fire Beach (Praiano) – Charming and sun-drenched spot on Gavitella Beach
• Arienzo Beach Club (Positano) – Scenic beach club away from the crowds

Aperitivo Time!

The Italians would agree – aperitivo is the most important time of the day! Whether neon-hued Spritzes or a crisp and refreshing beer is more your speed, one thing’s for sure – this early evening hour for cheap drinks and salty snacks is basically mandatory when in Italy.

• Fauno Bar (Sorrento) – Plenty of outdoor seating and great people watching
• Franco’s Bar (Positano) – Trendy cocktail bar with breathtaking sea views
• Masaniello Art Café (Amalfi) – Great spritzes and open late!
• Hotel Caruso (Ravello) – Breathtaking views and solid vibes

Dinner: The Most Important Meal of the Day

Whether pizza, pasta, or robust secondi are what you fancy, dinner on the Amalfi Coast promises an unforgettable experience. After a day full of exploring (or let’s face it, simply soaking in the sun on a beach), satiate your appetite with a hearty meal at one of the following establishments:

• La Sponda (Positano) – Gorgeous, candlelit restaurant in Le Sirenuse hotel
• Aldo’s Rooftop Bar (Positano) – Beautiful cocktail bar and seafood grill
• Fuoro51 (Sorrento) – Hands down the best wine bar on the Amalfi Coast
• Lo Scoglio (Nerano) – Homemade food in family-run joint overlooking the sea
• La Tagliata (Positano) – Typical homemade cuisine, one of the best restaurants
• Quattro Passi (Nerano) – Gourmet, 2-Michelin star restaurant near Sorrento

Additional Things to Do (beyond eating and drinking):

• Li Galli Island – The perfect day trip from Positano, excellent for snorkeling
• Take a day trip to Capri
• Hike the lesser-known Il sentiero delle Formichelle between Tramonti and Maiori
• Discover the Villa Cimbrone Gardens
• Book a kayaking excursion

A Place to Lay Your Head

Having a solid place to lay your head at night is key, and while you’re likely going to pay a pretty penny for any form of accommodation, here are our recommendations of where to look, depending on the vibe you’re seeking:

• Le Sirenuse – Positano
• Hotel Santa Caterina – Amalfi
• Belmond Caruso Ravello
• Il San Pietro di Positano
• Palazzo Avino – Ravello
• Lastly, don’t sleep on AirBnb! You can generally find some hidden gem places that won’t break the bank

While Rome, Florence, and Venice may be the more obvious choice for food and wine lovers, a breathtaking trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast is an absolute must, at least once in your lifetime. We wish you an unforgettable trip to La Divina Costiera.
Cheers!