6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do there

The Italian Coastline is one of the most beautiful stretches of land in the world and contains some of the most picture-perfect Amalfi Coast Cities you can visit. Your Amalfi coast trip covers up to 50-km and is lined with a plethora of stunning and magical coastal towns and villages that will blow your mind. This area of Southern Italy is known for its vivid blue waters, rugged mountains, colourful houses, and delicious limoncello.

What is the Amalfi coast famous for? The best places on the Amalfi coast are a jaw-dropping combination of the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea, with coloured fishing boats bobbing on the waves. The deep rich yellow and green of the lemon trees on the terraces, the narrow streets, and the multicoloured houses situated on the steep green cliffs. The best Amalfi Coast Beaches are not long narrow stretches of pink sand but they are set within this beautiful coastline in Italy and who could ask for more?

the beautiful Amalfi coast cities

The coastal towns of Italy are both naturally and architecturally beautiful. The Amalfi Coast is – arguably – one of the most beautiful places on earth. However, the Coast is not only beautiful. It also holds a rich history, and each city has a complicated past that is very interesting. Interestingly enough, in 1997, the Amalfi Coast has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site!

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Each city along the Amalfi Coast has an exciting story to tell and various attractions. There is a plethora of beauty to see and history to learn along the Coast. As a result, it is easy to get overwhelmed when planning. Road-tripping along the Amalfi coastline is one of the best ways of uncovering the show-stopping landscapes of the Italian Riviera. Considered one of Europe’s most spectacular coastal drives, this route gives you some of the best jaw-dropping views of the region.

However, it can be a tad overwhelming when you see the width of the roads on the Amalfi coast so why not take an organized tour where you can sit back and not be concerned with the drive?

13 Almalfi Coast Cities

There are 13 towns on the Amalfi coast spreading across this incredible strip of land kissed by the sun and called the Amalfi Coast. It was declared by UNESCO “World Heritage Site and a tour of the area should not be missed when visiting Italy.

Amalfi, the town that gives its name to the coast, is situated at the mouth of the Valle dei Mulini. It looks like a cluster of white houses clinging to the rock and connected to each other by covered alleys and stairways.

Atrani, a beautiful and charming town situated at the mouth of the Valle del Dragone, is a natural amphitheatre on the sea, offering the visitor picturesque views as well a gorgeous beach to relax on.

Cetara, a fishing village gathered around the main church dedicated to St. Peter.

Conca dei Marini, a coastal village with a centuries-old maritime tradition, is a natural balcony overlooking the sea, surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation and terraced gardens.

Furore, also known as “the town that doesn’t exist”, for its urban layout characterized by scattered villages surrounded by terraced vineyards. It is also called “the painted village”, for the beautiful “en plain air” murals on the typical whitewashed houses.

Exploring stunning Capri

Maiori became the favourite setting of the Italian neo-realist director Roberto Rossellini after WWII. The wide promenade is bordered by the Norman Tower, on the East side, the marina and the charming Miramare Castle on the West side.

Minori has a long tradition in the production of handmade pasta as well as in the processing of the famous Amalfi coast lemon PGI. Surrounded by lush terraced gardens, the small town of the Divine coast hides architectural treasures of great value, including Roman Villa ruins and an Arabic Norman bell tower.

Praiano is a charmer with its narrow streets and houses, leading directly to the sea. Here you can enjoy the most romantic sunset on the whole coast: the purple sun slowly disappears behind the mountains, illuminating in the background Capri.

Exploring stunning Capri

Scala, the oldest town on the Amalfi coast and birthplace of fra’ Gerardo Sasso, founder of the Knights of Malta, is surrounded by dense forests of chestnut trees. The ruins of the Basilica of Sant’Eustachio, the largest church in the Duchy of Amalfi, is situated in a panoramic position and still show the beautiful inlay work on the exterior side of the apses, frescoes and precious marble.

Tramonti, the hill town of the Amalfi coast, surrounded by the green and lush vegetation of the Lattari Mountains, is the perfect place to enjoy the authentic flavours of the local cuisine.

Vietri sul mare is the first town on the Amalfi coast coming from Salerno is famous for the production of bright-coloured artistic ceramics since the XV century.

This Amalfi Coast itinerary explores 6 of the best towns to visit on the coast.

a hilltop city on the Amalfi coast

Therefore, I have come up with a list of the top cities along the Amalfi Coast that will make planning your coastal journey a little bit easier.

 Top things to do in Amalfi – 19 best Amalfi coast tourist attractions

Visit Sorrento

One fantastic city along the Amalfi Coast that is very underrated is Sorrento. Sorrento is built on high cliffs that sit right against the edge of the sea. This cliff-side inhabitation makes the city very different from all others along the Coast. There is a sense of excitement when you are in the city and looking down from the hundred-meter-tall cliffs.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

More so, Sorrento is full of exciting things to do. There is no shortage of things to do that will make your Italian visit optimal.

Sorrento Beaches

Firstly, Sorrento has a few beaches that are unique due to the city’s location amongst the cliffs. They are located at the base of the cliffs, and the beach chairs are on human-made docks that extend into the water. The beaches here have ultra-blue water that is great for swimming.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Lemons of Sorrento

Sorrento is also where lemons grow in abundance, and the whole city is full of lemon-scented and flavoured everything. More so, if you love lemons and want to try some authentic Italian limoncello, Sorrento is the best place to taste it. The city of Sorrento is the leading producer and supply of all limoncello in the area, so the standards are high!

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Be sure to spend some time exploring the lovely city streets of Sorrento as well. There are a ton of local shops, paint stores, clothing shops, gelato stands, and more just waiting to be discovered.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

What makes Sorrento even better is that it is one of the less frequented cities along the Coast, which means there are fewer crowds than in some of the other cities! This makes exploring more enjoyable and intimate.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

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See Positano

Positano is by far the most popular city along the Amalfi Coast. Every year hundreds of thousands of tourists head to the Amalfi Coast to visit Positano individually. There is no question as to why so many people want to visit this city; it is absolutely stunning!

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

The city is built into the vast, rugged mountains that surround and the town is built vertically instead of horizontally. The houses built into the mountains are all brightly coloured, and very aesthetically pleasing. As a result of the beautiful and unique city design, Positano has become one of the most photographed places in Europe.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Positano is not only one of the top cities because of its beauty, but it is also highly rated for its beaches, food, and hikes! This charming city is more than meets the eye.

Santa Maria Assunta Sorrento

Don’t forget to visit the 13th-century church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its dome of majolica tiles and Byzantine icon of a black Madonna which, according to local legend was brought here by pirates.

Sorrento Beach

There is one main beach that runs along the whole front of Positano that is always full of people swimming in crystal-clear waters and enjoying the views of the city. The beach also has bright orange and blue sunbeds that add to the fun and excitement of the city.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Since Positano is located right amongst the enormous mountains that make up the Coast, this offers excellent opportunities for hiking. The hiking trails in Positano – mainly Path of Gods – gives visitors some of the most breathtaking and surreal views of the Coast you can ask for.

Positano has everything a traveller could ask for; adventure, relaxation, beauty, and good food. If you want to keep your memories of Positano around forever why not pick up a great puzzle? Landscape puzzles are my go-to for trip memories and sometimes I even frame them for my travel wall.

Gorgeous Capri

Capri is another fantastic city that is located off the main peninsula of the Amalfi Coast. Capri is an island paradise and it is located a short ferry ride from the coastline. There is an easy and beautiful ride on the ferry from Naples to Capri. The town of Capri holds the same beauty and charm that the other inland cities hold, but with its own unique characteristics. It is famous for its vast mountains, jagged rocks, and upscale offerings.

Marina Grande Beach

The Marina Grande beach attracts all the celebrities so you may spot some famous folks, however, you will have to pay for the privilege. A lounger on this beach costs €29 euros.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

You can find the Marina Grande beach on the North coast of the island. This gorgeous beach has the most intense turquoise waters and is a fabulous place to spend the day. Things to do in Amalfi could include taking in some of the other local beaches like the Spiaggia Grande and Duoglio Spiaggia or simply exploring Capri’s history-filled attractions. 

Designer Shopping

The city is also well known as a popular Italian vacation spot for the rich and famous of the world. A visit to Capri will show you designer shops, huge mansions, yachts, and upscale hotels. The whole island is surrounded at all times by boats from the elite. Travellers can even see some with their helicopters on top. Moreover, there are entire streets dedicated to designer stores ranging from Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, and more.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

However, Capri isn’t all upscale and luxurious. If you are just a normal person, it is also a great travel destination. There are more than enough things to do that are both affordable and exciting.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

The Blue Grotto

Due to Capri being an island, there are various beaches and some of which are free beaches. There are also some fascinating and unique caves all around the island – like the Blue Grotto – that is an unusual natural phenomenon to see! The city of Capri is also stunning, and although you may only window shop, it is still fascinating to walk around and explore.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Capri is a very unique location along the Coast that puts luxury travellers and mundane travellers together in one place. And the best part is there is something to do and see for both. If you love an Italian Island destination why not head to Sardinia and check out the beaches there?

Amalfi Town

Amalfi is a little town along the Coast that is small but impactful. It takes only around 20 minutes to walk across the whole city, but there is quite a bit of beauty packed within this small town. One thing that makes Amalfi different from the other Coastal towns is that it lacks historical buildings. This is because of the catastrophic earthquake in 1343 that resulted in most of the city disappearing into the sea.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Despite Amalfi’s tragic past the city has rebuilt over the hundreds of years and become one of the top locations along the Coast. Amalfi is also a flatter city than all the others. There are rugged mountains behind it, and some buildings are built into them. However, most of the town is almost level with the sea.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Not many people know much about Amalfi because it is hard to research. Since the name of the city is the name of the entire Coast, information can become mixed and confusing! I am here to tell you it is a city, and it is stunning.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Amalfi Town Pier

There is a long pier that heads straight into the water, and a walkout onto it gives a stunning view of the city and its surroundings. Go On A Boat Tour of Grotta dello Smeraldo the Emerald Grotto is well worth a visit. This small cave was shaped by the sea and gradually filled with seawater. It is called the Emerald Grotto due to the deep jewel-like green colour that fills the grotto when the sun shines through.

Paper Museum – Museo della Carta Amalfi

For centuries, Amalfi was one of the most important producers of paper in Europe, and water-powered paper mills lined the river running through the centre of town. See how these ingenious mills worked and learn about the history and production of Amalfi’s prestigious paper at the Paper Museum, located in a fully functioning historic mill.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret
©Mess, CC BY-SA 3.0

Tour Ravello

Ravello is located high in the mountains just a short distance from Amalfi. This city is 365 meters above the sea, and it feels like the set of a Shakespearean play. Ravello has been called the hidden gem of the Amalfi Coast. This medieval-styled city does not get even close to the attention of the other towns on the Coast. However, this is good news for all USA travellers.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Less attention means fewer tourists, and that makes the city so much more enjoyable! Strolling around the lush green gardens, and stone walkways are best when they are void of people.

Villa Rufolo

Explore the gorgeous gardens of the 13th-century Villa Rufolo. The villa is located in the centre of town and it overlooks the terraces (upper and lower) as well as overlooking the Amalfi Coast and the Gulf of Salerno with flower gardens that are in bloom most of the year.

Of particular interest among the rooms of the villa is a large courtyard elevated like a cloister and some rooms forming a small museum.

Villa Cimbrone

Another villa to visit are the gardens of Villa Cimbrone, which is a private 5-star hotel and don’t forget the fantastic atmosphere in Piazza del Vescovado, Ravello will easily find its way to the top of your favourite places to visit in Italy

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

More so, the best part about Ravello is the views. Since it is located so high in the mountains, there are a plethora of panoramic views for you to enjoy.  From the terraces scattered all around the city, you can look out at the endless blue waters and feel on top of the world.

Intimate Praiano

Praiano is located between Positano and Amalfi and offers a small intimate getaway compared to the other busy cities along the Coast. The town is only about two blocks long, but the quietness in Praiano is pleasant to enjoy the Italian fantasy in peace.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Despite its small size, this Amalfi coast city has two lovely beaches that are blue watered and not crowded at all.  This city also has some fantastic views of the sunset. No mountains are blocking the view so that you can enjoy it fully. Finally, there are a few restaurants here that you can stop at for a glass of wine and a bite to eat, and not pay outrageous amounts!

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Praiano is not as famous as its neighbouring city Positano. But many people rate the city highly because staying in the city and visiting it are a welcome break from the busy streets of Positano. Also, Positano and Amalfi are just a short bus ride away. Therefore, you can enjoy the stunning cities and have the option to escape to your private oasis whenever you want.

Beaches of Praiano

The town of Praiano has a number of beaches, including the only beach on the Amalfi Coast to enjoy the sun until it sets. The nearby village of Furore, famous for its fiord, hosts a spectacular diving competition, each summer.

Wander the narrow streets

Praiano’s ancient narrow streets and stairs lead down to the harbour and a small beach. The harbour used to have a square but it was lost in a landslide. The streets of Praiano are full of gorgeous fragrant flowers and the town itself is one of the most romantic of the Amalfi coast.

San Gennaro Church

Di san Gennaro church is a small but beautiful church in the middle of Praiano. It is located in a large square from where you can have a gorgeous view of the sea. A square is also a place for many locals, both young and old. The church is known for a tile floor that will take your breath away.

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

If you are visiting the Amalfi Coast cities and looking for an exciting side trip to Rome here is an article on what to see in Rome in 3 days. 

Tour to the Amalfi Coast Positano, Amalfi & Ravello from Sorrento

Discover the famous beauty of one of Italy’s most iconic shorelines with this full-day tour of the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento. Travel in an air-conditioned mini-coach along spectacular coastal roads, stopping to visit the region’s three most popular and beautiful villages—Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. With tips from your knowledgeable guide, enjoy leisure time in each town to stroll narrow cobblestone streets and shop for unique handmade goods.

Read more about Tour to the Amalfi Coast Positano, Amalfi & Ravello from Sorrento

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Amalfi Coast Tour by boat from Sorrento

Venture to two of the Amalfi Coast’s most in-demand destinations, and take in the sights from the water’s edge, on this full-day boat tour from Sorrento. Following pickup from your hotel, transfer to the port and climb aboard. See the rugged beauty of the Sorrento Coast before continuing to the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast. Disembark in Amalfi and explore the town on a walking tour (additional expense), before continuing to Positano, where you’ll have several hours to shop, swim, relax on the beach, and more.

Read more about Amalfi Coast Tour by boat from Sorrento

6 Stunning Amalfi Coast Cities to visit and what to do theret

Have you visited any of the Amalfi coast cities? I’d love to know which one was your favourite and why?

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This guest post is written by Sam of the travel blog Sam Sees World. Sam is a millennial traveller on a mission to seek the new and unknown so she can document her experiences and inspire others to explore this wondrous world. Her objective is to provide valuable information on the best things to do, see, eat, and experience while travelling and getting some good Instagram photos along the way.

Author

  • Faith was born in Ireland raised in Canada and has lived in over 10 countries in Europe including England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Spain, Northern Ireland, Wales, along with Mexico, Antigua, the US and has slow travelled to over 40 countries around the world. Graduating with a degree in Anthropology and Women's Studies Faith is a student of history, culture, community and food and has written about these topics for over 40 years.

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