Picture dramatic cliffs plunging into the glittering Mediterranean Sea, colored villages clinging to hill sides, and the fragrance of lemons in the air; welcome to the Amalfi Coast, one of the most dramatic and photographically pleasing spots in all of Italy. One great moment after another on this stretch of coast-from driving on its meandering roads to taking a walk around its charming towns.
From the vibrant town of Amalfi to the chic boutiques of Positano, the Amalfi Coast is a sensory journey of sight, sound, and taste. In this guide, we’ll share our top tips and recommendations for exploring this stunning part of Italy, including insider advice on how to avoid the crowds, where to find the best local treats, and the must-see lookouts along the way. Buckle up for the most unforgettable moments of unimaginable proportions as we take you through the best the Amalfi Coast has to offer.
Naples Airport Arrival: The Gateway to the Amalfi Coast
It will be an excellent Amalfi Coast adventure commencing from vibrant Naples, a very busy metropolitan city filled with rich history and vivid street life. If that is not enough, there is world-famous pizza in store. In fact, packed, noisy, and full of energy, whether arriving by cruise liner, train, or jumbo jet, Naples marks the gateway to the Amalfi Coast.
Naples: A Brief Stop Before Amalfi Coast
The old architecture whizzes by in a blur as you enter Naples, rivaling the energy of the city; Mount Vesuvius stands off in the distance, a reminder of the richness and great history the region has to offer. If possible, it is definitely worth dedicating a good number of hours to checking out Naples prior to heading off toward the Amalfi Coast. At least, having a Neapolitan pizza from a pizzeria will be simply fantastic.
Price of a classic Margherita pizza in Naples:
• Pizza: 6-8 euros ($6.50-$8.50 USD)
• Coffee in local café: €1.50-€2 ≈ $1.60-$2.10 USD
Once you’ve had your fill of Naples’ vibrant streets, it’s time to head south toward the serene beauty of the Amalfi Coast. While there are several transportation options, including buses and ferries, hiring a private driver is the best way to fully appreciate the journey. With narrow, winding roads hugging the cliffs, a local driver’s expertise not only ensures your safety but also offers flexibility to stop at scenic lookouts along the way.
Cost and convenience: the advantages of hiring a private driver.
While hiring a private driver can almost sound overly indulgent, on the Amalfi Coast, the added comfort and personalized experience is really worth every penny spent. He will know exactly what time to reach which town in order to avoid crowds and would suggest some picture stops that pass most tourists by.
Average price of a private driver from Naples to the Amalfi Coast (full-day service):
• Private Driver: Depending on season and size of vehicle from 300-500€ ($320-$530USD).
Public transport system:
• Bus fare (Naples to Amalfi): €5-€10 (approx. $5.30-$11 USD)
• Ferry (seasonal): €12-€20 (approx. $13-$21 USD)
The Drive: A Movement through Scenic Wonder.
Once out of the busy streets of Naples, driving to the Amalfi Coast becomes an experience unto itself. In theory, at least, this is what’s called the Amalfi Drive: an oceanfront road that offers some of the most striking scenery you could ever hope for-think of winding along narrow roads, perched high above the glittering Mediterranean Sea, with rugged cliffs on one side and colored towns dotting the hillsides on the other.
Good to know: Leave very early in the morning to avoid tour buses and day-trip crowds later in the day filling up the roads hand over fist. This coastal road is often very, very congested throughout the summer months.
Take a drive out, stopping en-route at some of the lookout points; he took us to one which gave a brilliant overview of Naples: the whole sprawl of the city down below, and the mountains rising behind. Such stops are great for photo opportunities and time to stay awhile and appreciate the beauty of it all.
Scenic Stops – Photo Opportunities
There are several lookout viewpoints on this coastal road where you can just stop and shoot that photo or simply enjoy the view. The best vantage points are:
• Fiordo di Furore: Picturesquely nestled between steep cliffs, real photo shootings may be performed here, a silent moment away from the noise.
• Ravello: If time permits, take a detour towards Ravello. It is a hill city offering a panoramic view with beautiful gardens.
Tip: Most of the view spots have small vendors selling souvenirs and other refreshments. Make sure to pick up a glass of lemon granita or a bottle of limoncello to sip as you go.
Cost of local refreshments en route:
• Lemon granita: 3-5€ ($3.20-$5.30 USD)
• Limoncello bottle: €8-€12 / $8.50-13 Approx.
While approaching the Amalfi Coast, you will be able to see the first-colored towns that seem to be constructed on cliffs. This would be a build-up in anticipation whereby the turquoise-colored waters would show up to signify your arrival to one of the most beautiful parts in the world’s coastline. Besides insider information, you get freedom to do the most with literally every second spent on the coast with a private driver. Comfortable transport and views that take your breath away at every bend mean the trip itself is worth remembering along the Amalfi Coast.
Amalfi Town – A Perfect Base
The town of Amalfi itself nestles between sea and cliff faces and is normally the first stop on any upward tour for some very good reasons: a combination that fascinates with ancient appeal, vibrant piazzas, and stunningly beautiful coastal views. Best time of visit would be early morning; later in the day, it’s just awash with tourists.
If you make it in the morning, then you can have an easy start of your journey with empty streets and have a chance to go to the best spots in town without crowding.
First of all, go for a relaxing stroll around the main square, Piazza Duomo. The main square is almost wholly occupied by the impressive Amalfi Cathedral-Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea-impressive with its stunning staircase leading up and its medieval façade. Go up the steps to see the exquisite mosaics inside, or explore crypt and cloister if that’s more to your taste.
The cost to visit the Amalfi Cathedral:
• Admission Fee: from €3-5 ($3.20-$5.30 USD)
Tip: The view from the top of the staircase over the square is very striking; it’s very good for photos since early morning light is soft and queues are yet minimal.
Breakfast – Pastries
Amalfi is also renowned for its patisserie, and a visit isn’t complete without trying the typical pistacchio croissant or sfogliatella – a shell-shaped pastry with a filling of ricotta flavoured with orange. Still, a number of small pasticcerie are found around the square, each selling either sweet or savoury items.
Try it in some local bakery and enjoy it at one of the piazzas with a cup of cappuccino. That in fact was the proper Italian breakfast-easy but tasteful.
Cost of one breakfast in Amalfi:
• Croissant pistachio 2-3€ ($2.10-$3.20 USD)
• Cappuccino: €1.50-€2.50 (about $1.60-$2.70 USD)
Tasting Lemon Delights
The world fame of lemons of Amalfi is loudly and proudly proclaimed; the pride of this local treasure is so delicately put together in limoncello, candies, and gelato. Various small shops in the town proffer tastings. We recommend trying the lemon sorbet-served in a hollowed-out lemon, refreshing and sharp, with the sharpness of Amalfi lemons meeting the smooth texture of the sorbet.
It’s an overwhelmingly delicious dessert, and along with all those qualities, it’s very photogenic.
Price of Lemon Sorbet in Amalfi:
• Lemon in Sorbet Lemon: 5-7 € ($5.50-$7.50 USD)
After having had breakfast and a lemon treat, take the time to wander around the narrow streets of Amalfi, where many local artisans sell everything from hand-painted ceramics to leather goods-the perfect place to acquire some souvenirs.
Amalfi: Prices for Souvenirs
• Hand-painted ceramics: 15-30€ (approximately $16-$32USD)
• Limoncello: small bottle 8-12€ ($8.50-$13 USD)
Before leaving Amalfi, take your time for a walk along the seashore promenade; the view over the sea is overwhelming, and if you are in luck, you will catch the glimpses of small boats leaving for that day.
Positano: the jewel of the Amalfi Coast.
Positano is probably the most iconic and postcard-like town along the Amalfi Coast: pastel-colored houses cascade down-quite literally-on cliffs to the sea, a dream it would seem. The first view from a distance, the town will take your breath away; it will be even more loved inside its narrow, winding streets.
First of all, be prepared to walk. Positano is all about a tangle of steps and narrow lanes, so seeing the town will require some climbs. On the bright side, around every corner and up every stair seems to be a different, breathtaking view over cliffs and Mediterranean Sea. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and take your time.
Shopping in Positano
Positano is the shopper’s dream, especially for those who intend to purchase handmade leather products. Excellent local artisans make the highest-quality items available, ranging from sandals to handbags. For those in a mood to splurge, upscale boutiques selling designer clothes and accessories line up.
Cost of shopping in Positano:
• Handmade Leather Sandals: 40-80€ ($42-$85 USD)
• Leather Bags: €100-€200 (approximately $106-$210 USD)
• Designer dresses and clothes: €200+, about $210+ USD.
Lunch with a view
After your morning of strolling and browsing, we recommend lunch at one of the many restaurants overlooking the sea. Most restaurants in Positano have a terrace with sea views and views of colorfully painted buildings of this town. If you are more into a classic Italian lunch, then try seafood pasta-it is always fresh and tasty thanks to its proximity to the sea. If you are more in the mood for something light, then a Margherita pizza is always a good order.
Cost for lunch in Positano:
• Seafood Pasta: €15-€25 (approximately $16-$26 USD)
• Pizza Margherita: 10-15€, about $11-$16USD
• Glass of local wine: 6-8 euros ($6.50-$8.50 USD)
Tip: In Positano, lunches can get quite pricey, especially for those restaurants with a really great view. That being said, lunch with a view, perched overlooking cliffs and the sea, is well worth it. Far less expensive would be to buy a sandwich or some delicious Italian gelato from a cafe and have it by the beach.
Positano’s Beaches
No trip to Positano is complete without some time spent on the beach. Spiaggia Grande is the main beach and tends to be quite lively for hiring chairs and umbrellas for the day and baking in the sun. If you’re after something a bit more laid back, then Fornillo Beach is only a short hike from there and usually a lot less crowded.
Price of Beach Facilities:
• Rental of beach chairs and umbrellas: 10-20€, or $11-$21 USD per person for the whole day.
• Beachside Gelato: €2.50-€4 ($2.75-$4.25 USD)
Discovering Positano by sea
The best way to see Positano is from the sea. There are loads of tours from small groups to private charters. These tours will take you down the coastline-the views of the cliffs, the caves, and beaches hidden by them are great. We highly recommend that the boat tour be booked on a day when the weather is tranquil; it is so peaceful, seeing the beauty of the coast from another angle.
Price for a tour by boat in Positano:
• Group Boat Tour: from €50-€100, or about $53-$105 USD per person for a 2-3-hour tour
• Private Boat Charter: 300-600€ (approximately 320-640 USD), depending on boat size and time of use
As the day gets in the evening mode, take some time for a really enjoyable evening walk along the promenade of Spiaggia Grande during sunset. If not, well, seeing the town bathed in gold with the sparkling sea beneath is literally the cherry on top for the day in Positano.
SCENIC DRIVES AND HIDEAWAY LOOKOUTS
One of the most magical things about visiting the Amalfi Coast is driving it. This oceanfront road, famous as the Amalfi Drive or SS163, is known to show stunning scenery, hairpin turns, and dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea. Whether you drive yourself or-as we highly recommend-engaging a private driver, the journey down the coastline is part of the experience, just like each and every one of the towns you will see.
Hiring a Private Driver: The Best Way to Explore
The roads of the Amalfi Coast are pretty intimidating if one is not used to narrow, cliff-hugging roads. We highly recommend that a private driver hire be pre-arranged for this day. Not only would a local driver be perfect on the roads, but he or she would share insider knowledge on where to stop and explore. Having a private driver entails stopping at the sceneries, skipping crowded places, and making up your itinerary.
Cost of private driver all day, that is, 8 hours:
• Private driver: depending on season, category of vehicle 300-500€, approx. $320-$530.
So, we went with a private driver who has done these roads for over 40 years, and just from the get-go, we knew it was going to be one of those great decisions made. We felt safe, but he took us to these little lookouts that big tour buses miss.
Scenic stops on the way
Along Amalfi Drive, there are a number of look-out places one can pull over and take in the view. One sees great views from these lookouts of the sea, the cliffs, and hillsides with their terracing of lemon groves. Some of our favorites:
• Fiordo di Furore: narrow, deep gorge at sea level, totally carved in the rocks, with vertical sides: here, a real natural fjord comes alive. The best stop for taking photos and making a fast walk.
• To be reached mainly by a brief detour inland from the coastal road, Ravello commands stunning coastline views. Perhaps most famous of all, however, is that obtainable from so-called Terrace of Infinity: the sea and sky appear to join together here. Worth a stop if you have the time.
Tip:Early mornings are the best times to visit them, as at later parts of the day, one faces milling crowds and heavy traffic. You will also get a chance to get some of those quiet, peaceful moments at these lookout points.
Cost of parking at lookouts/viewpoints:
• Parking Fees: 2-5€, or about 2.10-5.30USD per hour, depending on location.
Avoidance of Traffic and Tourist Groups
The tiniest hint if visiting the Amalfi Coast: it’s ultra-crowded, particularly during summer, and congestions along serpentine roads are not infrequent. So, one of the really good tips we can give is trying to make strategic stops that avoid huge tour groups. One of the tips our driver gave us was to see Amalfi early in the morning, Positano in the afternoon, so that we could avoid all the crowds-a tip which really made all the difference.
Dining in Paradise: Italian Delights by the Seaside
Of course, without question, one of the highlights of the Amalfi Coast is, of course, the food-from fresh seafood to pasta dishes that make you never want to leave; just magic. We thought the best meals on the Amalfi Coast are eaten in simple settings: seaside cafes, little trattorias, and out-of-doors terraces right on the water.
Lemon sorbet to start, and gelato
Amalfi and its surrounding towns are famous for their lemons, and you’ll see them everywhere—from shops to menus. One of the most delightful treats you’ll come across is lemon sorbet served in a hollowed-out lemon. It’s the perfect way to refresh yourself on a warm day while enjoying the tangy, fresh flavor of local lemons.
Lemon Sorbet Yield in one Lemon
• Lemon Sorbet: 5-7€ ($5.50-$7.50 USD)
No dessert is Italian if it’s not gelato: from ‘regular’ pistachio to unusual flavors of lemon basil, nobody can go wrong with one or two scoops.
Price of Gelato in a Cup or Cone:
• Piccolo Gelato: 2.50-4 € $2.75-$4.25 USD
Lunch at Positano with view.
Dining out in Positano is really not about what one is eating but where one sits down. We always prefer restaurants facing the sea or terraces that oversee the town and the sea. There is just something that is so incomparable with dining when the view is of cliffs and sea.
Note: Positano does tend to be expensive in its restaurants, much more so if the view is prime. Still, for the experience of it-one that’s utterly worth it-most of all the cafes have sandwiches, salads, and pizza by the slice that you can take out to a bench or down to the beach if you’re looking for something lighter.
Some dishes we tried and highly recommend are:
• Seafood spaghetti: the eternal dinner of fresh catch with boiled pasta, mixed with thick garlicky sauce, fills the mouth with the Mediterranean in every consecutive bite.
• Margherita Pizza: It is just heavenly-right with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
Cost of lunch in Positano:
• Seafood Spaghetti: €15-€25 (about $16-$26 USD)
• Margherita Pizza: 10-15€ ~$11-16 USD
• Glass of Local Wine: 6-8 euros ($6.50-$8.50 USD)
Dinner at Amalfi: Fresh Seafood by the Sea
For dinner, though, it’s better to return to Amalfi or one of the small coastal towns; dinner can be altogether more subdued and intimate. Most restaurants in those towns would have served fresh seafood, meaning fresh catch of the day by the local fishermen. The best meals we had are simple but really tasty fish grilled and served with lemon and herbs, together with local white wine.
Cost of dinner in Amalfi:
• Grilled Fish: 20-30€ – $21-$32 USD
• One bottle of local wine: 15-25€ ($16-$26 USD)
Tip: To get a meal with a view without breaking the bank, have lunch here, or head for their pizzas or pasta dishes, which are generally more affordable than their seafood offerings.
Savoring limoncello
Of course, no visit to the Amalfi Coast is complete without a taste of limoncello-the lemon liqueur locally made-proffered after meals as a digestif. Most restaurants will serve up a complimentary glass after dinner, but you can still buy bottles to take with you.
Limoncello – bottle Price
• Small Bottle of Limoncello: €8-€12 (about $8.50-$13 USD)
Something more than the usual attractions
While the towns of Amalfi and Positano are undeniably the most breathtaking, it is really in the secrets and offbeat escapades that lie in wait along Amalfi’s coastline that the magic truly lies. If you are one of those travelers who love to do some exploration and discovery, there is so much more to see at the Amalfi Coast aside from famous sights.
The Path of the Gods – A Hiker’s Dream
More energetic itineraries include the Sentiero degli Dei, better known to many in its English title of the Path of the Gods. This very famous, visually attractive path generally makes the top ten in the lists of the most beautiful in the world, running along the coastline with breathtaking views of it: steep cliffs, vineyards set out in a slope of terracing, and the glittering Mediterranean stretching to the horizon.
The actual hike is moderately difficult: rocky parts of the trail, some steep climbing, but well worth every step at the end. You will be going through quaint villages such as Nocelle and Bomerano-resting to take in the views or getting a drink or snack at one of the small cafes. Highly recommended: bring your camera with you since there is so much picture taking to be done on this trail.
Early morning will do just fine. You will be avoiding most of the heating time when even water is not so scarce. With stopovers, it takes about 2 to 5 hours, depending on the speed at which you are moving.
Price of trekking on the Sentiero degli Dei:
• Trail Access: Free
• Hiking Guides: €50-€100, about 53-105 USD for half a day. You will get a much better idea about history and geography with a guide, plus he will be able to keep you on track.
Visit small villages.
While Positano and Amalfi tend to steal the show, so many of the smaller towns lining the coast really have a charm all their own. And one of our absolute favorites was the town of Praiano-a much quieter, much less touristy alternative to their more famous neighbors. Narrow streets lined with lemon trees, family-run trattorias, and small craft shops await herein.
It is also a home for some great beaches, much less crowded compared to those in Positano. Marina di Praia is a little enclosed beach between cliffs-a very nice spot for quiet relaxation and a swim without the bustle of the greater tourist area. With the roar of waves crashing against rocks, one could sit in the chairs under umbrellas available for rent in the afternoon.
Price of Beach amenities: In smaller villages:
• Umbrella and Chair Rentals: 10-20€, about $11-21 USD, per person for the full day.
• Snacks in local cafes: from €5-€10 ($5.50-$11 USD for snack, sandwich, and drink).
Water Events: Kayaking and Boat Tours
Then there’s another spectacular way to do the Amalfi Coast: take to its waters-rent a kayak or take a boat tour for a completely different view of the coastline, where you can see close up not just the cliffs and caves but also find hidden coves, even stopping off on secluded beaches accessible by water only.
We hired a kayak in Positano and kayaked along the coastline, entering small grottos, enjoying the tranquil waters. It was quite a different way to get away from the crowds and see just how beautiful the Amalfi Coast is from the sea.
Price for Water Sports:
• Kayaking: 20 – 30€; about 21-32$USD per hour
• Boat Tours: 50-100 euros, about 53-105 USD per person for a half-day group tour
• Private Boat Rental: €300-€600, depending on the capacity of the boat and on the time of rental – about $320-$640
Take a cooking class
If you are a foodie, then join a cooking class, which is an ideal way to bring the Amalfi Coast right into your home. Indeed, many local chefs give practical sessions whereby, with the help of the easy and clear explanations, one can learn to make fresh pasta, pizza, and even limoncello.
In Ravello, we joined a class where we could make fresh ravioli and Tiramisu ourselves; well, that was not only instructive but also highly entertaining. After having prepared the dinner, we sat down to eat on a seaview terrace, which made the dinner really unforgettable.
Price for a Cooking Lesson:
Cooking Class: €80-€150 per person, meal included, or about $85-$160 USD.
Conclusion
Some places are just brimming with something for everyone: from world-renowned towns, including Amalfi and Positano, to even the tiniest beaches; from cliff hikes to a foodie heaven-every inch of this place urges one to get discovered. Of course, you may combine all this in your personalized cocktail of relaxation versus full-of-action, but for sure, this will meet and definitely exceed all your expectations.
The most daring will remember the mark left by hiking on the Sentiero degli Dei or kayaking along the coastline. Whoever wants to take it easy, on the other hand, will find quiet beaches, silent villages, and some of the most picturesque stops to sit and drink the wine of the place.
We firmly believe that taking a trip and reaping the most from it means you plan ahead but at the same time, leave room for spontaneity. Be it a lookout point, the discovery of some hidden beach, or an unplanned meal in a hamlet, the Amalfi Coast gets a way of catching you off guard at each turn.
Here’s a rough outline of some key costs to help you plan your own Amalfi Coast adventure.
Key Costs for the Amalfi Coast:
• Private Driver for Full Day: €300-€500, or about $320-$530 USD
• Meals, per person: €15-€30, depending on the restaurant and its location (around 16-32 USD).
• Amalfi Lemon Sorbet: €5-€7 ($5.50-$7.50 USD)
• Gelato in Positano: 2.50-4€ ($2.75-$4.25 USD)
• Boat Tours: €50-€100 (approximately $53-$105 USD) per person
• Hike the Sentiero degli Dei: Free; Guided tours: €50-€100/about $53-$105 USD
• Cooking Classes: €80-€150 (about $85-$160 USD) per person
Where the tour on Amalfi Coast might take one, it presents a view that is great and stunning, dishes tasting good, and lifetime memories. One might be lying on a beach while being alone, or strolling on pathways atop cliffs, dining with courses of seafood over the sea-this coastline is a destination for the ones who will crave going there repeatedly.
