Italy gets a lot of hype, but the Amalfi Coast? It actually lives up to every single expectation. The first time I rounded that cliff on the coastal road and saw Positano’s colorful buildings stacked up the mountainside like a game of Jenga, I literally gasped. And when I tasted my first real limoncello made from those massive local lemons while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean, I got why people never shut up about this place.
The things to do in Amalfi Coast are straight out of a movie (Because, let’s face it, this place basically is a movie set). From taking a boat right into the glowing blue waters of the Emerald Grotto to climbing the 999 steps to the top of Ravello’s Villa Cimbrone gardens for that iconic coastal view, every moment here feels unreal. I’ve rounded up my favorite experiences that prove why this stretch of coastline is worth all the Instagram fame.
Top Must-See Places in the Amalfi Coast
Visiting the Amalfi Coast? Spend the day exploring Positano, discover the beauty of Ravello, or stroll through the Ancient Streets of Amalfi. Take a boat tour to the famous Blue Grotto of Capri or relax along the stunning coast. Whether you’re into history, adventure, or seaside charm, the Amalfi Coast has plenty to offer.
1. Positano
Positano is the kind of place that feels like a dream until you’re standing in the middle of it. Colorful homes cascade down the cliffside, and every turn reveals a new view of the Tyrrhenian Sea. I wandered through the winding streets with a lemon sorbet in hand, stopping into small boutiques and artisan ceramic shops along the way. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its iconic tiled dome, sits at the center of town and is a must-see.
Down at Spiaggia Grande, the beach scene is lively and scenic. Rent a sunbed or grab a drink from a beachfront bar—you’ll want to stay awhile. At sunset, the town glows as lights flicker on across the hills. It’s the kind of view you pause for, no matter how many photos you’ve seen online. If you’re visiting the Amalfi Coast, Positano absolutely earns a spot on your list.
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2. Ravello
If you’re craving a break from the crowds, head up the cliffs to Ravello. This quiet town overlooks the Amalfi Coast and feels worlds away from the chaos below. One of the highlights is Villa Rufolo, with tiered gardens that seem to float above the sea. I caught a classical concert here during the Ravello Festival, and it felt like something out of a movie.
Another favorite is Villa Cimbrone. Its Terrace of Infinity offers one of the most dramatic views on the coast. You don’t need to be a photographer to appreciate the scenery, but if you are—bring a full battery. The town’s streets are peaceful and charming, lined with cafes and little ceramic shops. Ravello is perfect for a slow afternoon of exploring, with fewer people and more sky. It’s easily one of the most relaxing places I visited on the coast.
3. Ancient Streets of Amalfi
The town of Amalfi packs a surprising amount of history into a small space. The centerpiece is the Amalfi Cathedral, a dramatic structure with striped stone arches and an ornate staircase. Inside, you’ll find the remains of Saint Andrew, the town’s patron. I arrived during a local festival and watched a procession that made the town’s religious roots feel very alive.
Beyond the cathedral, Amalfi is a maze of alleys and staircases. You’ll find limoncello shops, paper goods made from centuries-old mills, and cafes perfect for people-watching. I grabbed a quick espresso in Piazza Duomo, and it turned into an hour of soaking up the atmosphere. The nearby marina offers boat rides to Capri or sunset cruises along the coast. Whether you’re here for a few hours or a full day, Amalfi’s streets are full of little discoveries—and plenty of gelato.
4. Blue Grotto of Capri
A visit to the Blue Grotto on Capri is one of those surreal experiences you can’t really explain—you just have to go. You’ll board a small boat and duck your head under a tiny rock opening before entering the glowing blue cave. The light hits the water just right, illuminating everything in a deep electric blue. It felt like stepping into another planet.
I visited in the early afternoon and the lighting was perfect. The boatmen even sang as we floated around the cave, which somehow made it feel more magical than cheesy. While the Grotto is the headline act, the island of Capri itself deserves time too. Grab lunch in Anacapri, explore the gardens at Villa San Michele, or just walk the cliffside paths. The grotto may be touristy, but it’s unforgettable—and totally worth it if you catch it on a clear day.
5. Sorrento
Sorrento is often seen as the gateway to the Amalfi Coast, but it’s worth visiting for more than just convenience. The town sits high above the Bay of Naples, offering postcard views and some of the best sunsets I saw in Italy. I arrived by ferry and walked straight into the historic center—within five minutes, I was sipping Limoncello in a lemon grove courtyard.
Sorrento has a different vibe from places like Positano or Amalfi—more relaxed and less steep. You can explore the Chiostro di San Francesco, grab seafood along Marina Grande, and browse shops selling ceramics, leather goods, and fresh pastries. Don’t miss a visit to a local Limoncello factory; I tried five versions in a tasting and still bought two bottles. Whether you stay overnight or stop for a few hours, Sorrento is a mellow and scenic break from the tighter coastal towns.
6. Path of the Gods
Hiking the Path of the Gods is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the Amalfi Coast. This scenic trail runs from Bomerano to Nocelle, high above the sea, with constant panoramic views. I hiked it with a few friends, and we had to stop constantly—not because it was difficult, but because the views were ridiculous.
You’ll walk past terraced vineyards, quiet farms, and wildflowers clinging to the cliffs. While it’s not a tough hike, good shoes and water are a must. The best part is the sense of peace—far from the tour buses and selfie sticks. When we finished the hike in Nocelle, we grabbed cold drinks at a local stand with a view that could make you cry. If you’re looking for something active that doesn’t feel rushed, this hike shows the Amalfi Coast in its rawest, most beautiful form.
7. Vibrant Streets of Salerno
Salerno often gets overshadowed by towns like Positano or Amalfi, but it’s one of the best surprises along the coast. The vibe is local, authentic, and way less expensive. I spent two nights here and didn’t hear a single tourist complaint—mostly because there were barely any tourists. The Salerno Cathedral, especially the crypt of St. Matthew, is worth a stop even if you’re not into churches.
Stroll the Lungomare Trieste for sea views and people-watching, then wander into the Centro Storico, where narrow streets open into lively piazzas. I found a tiny bakery selling warm sfogliatelle and ended up going back three times in one day. Salerno also makes a great jumping-off point for ferries to Amalfi or Capri. If you want to stay somewhere with solid train access, fewer crowds, and a taste of real coastal life, Salerno delivers.
8. Cetara
Tiny and unbothered by crowds, Cetara is a fishing village with charm to spare. The first thing that hit me? The smell of the sea and fresh anchovies. This place is all about fish—and they do it right. I tried spaghetti con colatura di alici, a pasta dish made with anchovy extract, and it changed my entire opinion on anchovies.
The village is small but worth exploring. You’ll see colorful boats docked in the harbor, cats lounging in the sun, and locals chatting over espresso. The beach here is more relaxed than others along the coast, with far fewer tourists. If you want something super local, visit the small anchovy production shops or catch the annual Sagra del Pesce Azzurro festival. Cetara is quiet, real, and delicious. It’s a great stop if you’re already in a car or on a coastal food mission.
9. Maiori and Minori
If you want a more laid-back experience on the Amalfi Coast, head to Maiori and Minori. These neighboring towns are flat, walkable, and way less crowded than Positano. I stayed in Maiori for two nights and appreciated not having to climb stairs every time I wanted a coffee. Maiori has the longest beach on the coast—perfect for sunbathing or just people-watching with a gelato in hand.
Minori, just a 15-minute walk away, is known for pasta and pastries. Don’t skip Sal De Riso, a bakery famous for its lemon desserts. I went back for a second slice of the ricotta and pear cake. While Positano gets the spotlight, Maiori and Minori offer a more relaxed way to enjoy the coast. You still get great food, beautiful sea views, and easy access to boat tours—just without the chaos or price tag.
10. Praiano
Praiano is the place to go when you want the views without the crowds. Tucked between Positano and Amalfi, this village is often overlooked, which is exactly why it’s special. The sunsets here are next level—I caught one from the Church of San Gennaro, where the tiled dome turned golden in the light.
There’s not a ton to do here, and that’s kind of the point. Walk the quiet streets, grab dinner at Trattoria San Gennaro, and enjoy the peace. If you’re up for something active, take the stairs down to Marina di Praia, a small beach cove lined with cafes and cliffside bars. One night, I stumbled on a live jazz set at a bar on the rocks—it felt like a secret no one else knew. Praiano is slow, scenic, and just the right amount of off-the-radar.
11. Furore Fjord
Hidden under a dramatic stone bridge, Furore Fjord is one of the most unusual stops along the Amalfi Coast. It’s not easy to find, and that’s part of the fun. I stumbled upon it while riding the bus toward Conca dei Marini—and I made a mental note to return the next day. Once there, I climbed down the steep steps to reach the tiny beach tucked inside the gorge.
The fjord is known for its crystal-clear water and the annual high diving competition off the bridge above. Even when nothing’s going on, it’s surreal to float in the shadow of the cliffs. The beach is small, and space fills up fast, so get there early if you want a spot. Don’t expect a bunch of amenities—just raw beauty and salty air. Furore Fjord feels like something out of a fantasy, but it’s real.
12. Vietri sul Mare
Vietri sul Mare is the first town you hit when entering the Amalfi Coast from Salerno, and it’s a great place to start—or end—your trip. Known for its bold and colorful ceramics, Vietri is where many of the region’s iconic tiles are made. I spent half a day wandering pottery shops and ended up shipping a set of hand-painted espresso cups back home.
Unlike the more polished towns, Vietri feels casual and lived-in. You can grab a coffee at Piazza Matteotti, stroll through the Ceramics Museum at Villa Guariglia, then head down to Marina di Vietri for beach time. The sand isn’t as soft as in Maiori, but it’s less busy and more local. Vietri sul Mare doesn’t try too hard—it just is. And that’s why it sticks with you. If you’re a fan of design, color, or handmade goods, don’t skip it.
