Discover the Amalfi Coast: Italy's Coastal Gem

The Amalfi Drive, or SS163, is a stunning 48-kilometer stretch of coastline in Italy, celebrated as one of Italy's top tourist attractions. This breathtaking road is etched into cliffs above the Tyrrhenian Sea, offering dramatic views and a thrilling driving experience.

Driving the Amalfi Drive can be challenging, so many visitors opt for the bus, which allows for sightseeing and stops in quaint towns. Buses run frequently, and the town of Amalfi is a popular stopover. For the best views, take the bus from Sorrento west to east, and sit on the right side. If driving, go east to west for the safer inside lane.

For a comprehensive experience, use this guide to the top attractions of the Amalfi Coast.

1. Positano

Positano is a fashionable town with pastel houses and a beautiful beach, Marina Grande. The 13th-century Santa Maria Assunta church is a highlight, and the beach offers boat rentals and celebrity sightings. For a quieter experience, visit Fornillo Beach or the nearby town of Praiano.

2. Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Cave)

Near Conca dei Marini, the Emerald Cave is a marine grotto with a unique emerald-green glow, accessible by boat or from Amalfi beach.

What to see and do in Amalfi Coast

3. Amalfi

Amalfi is known for its steep streets, the Duomo di Sant'Andrea cathedral, and the ancient Museo della Carta. The town's beaches, like Marina Grande, are popular and lively.

4. Ravello

Ravello offers stunning views from its gardens and historic sites like the 12th-century church of San Giovanni del Toro and the Cathedral of San Pantaleone. The town is also a starting point for scenic hikes.

5. Villa Rufolo

Villa Rufolo in Ravello, with its gardens and ruins, inspired Wagner and hosts a renowned summer music festival.

6. Villa Cimbrone Gardens

Villa Cimbrone in Ravello is famous for its panoramic views and eclectic collection of art and architecture.

7. Find the Best Beach

The Amalfi Coast boasts a variety of beaches, from the glamorous Marina Grande at Positano to family-friendly Maiori Beach. Each beach offers a unique experience, whether it's for celebrity spotting or enjoying the sunset.

8. Vallone delle Ferriere

The Vallone delle Ferriere trail offers a nature hike through a valley with medieval ruins and rare plants.

9. Salerno

Salerno, at the eastern end of the peninsula, features the historic Cathedral of San Matteo and the Museo Archeologico.

10. Walking the Sentiero degli Dei

The Sentiero degli Dei is a scenic walking trail offering stunning coastal views and a chance to explore the landscape on foot.

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to the Amalfi Coast

Organized tours can enhance your Amalfi Coast experience, providing expert guides and stress-free transportation. Options include day trips from Sorrento or private tours from Naples with customizable itineraries.

• Day Trip from Sorrento: Explore Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello with stops at key attractions like Villa Rufolo.
• Day Trip from Naples: Enjoy a private tour with a chauffeur-driven car, visiting Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello at your own pace.

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Places to Visit near the Amalfi Coast: Nearby Sorrento offers a great base for exploring the area, with trips to Capri and the best Amalfi Coast beaches. Further afield, discover the ancient Greek sites of Paestum or the historic cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum near Naples.