Walk, drive or sail along the stunning coastline south of Naples, where villages and vineyards perch atop craggy cliffs.
See vineyards and ancient ruins as you make your way along the 45-kilometre (28-mile) road that winds its way along the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. Visit towns such as Praiano, Minori or Ravello to see churches and villas perched high above the sea.
The dramatic views and secluded beaches of the Amalfi Coast are a favourite among celebrities, and many hotels, restaurants and bars cater to a wealthy clientele. Don’t be put off you’ll still find plenty of accommodation and food to suit any budget.
Find your own stretch of sand, throw down a towel and relax. The small beaches along the coast can get crowded, so hire a boat from Amalfi and discover the wealth of hidden coves that are difficult to reach from land.
Put on a comfortable pair of shoes and take to the hiking trails that snake between villages. Don’t miss the “Path of the Gods” between Positano and Praiano. The 10-kilometre (6.2-mile) walk is the least strenuous along the coast and has become something of a pilgrimage for visitors who come to take in some of Italy’s most picturesque views.
Gardens perched along the cliff tops offer more of the same incredible vistas and can be explored at a leisurely pace. Go to Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo to wander through tiered landscapes filled with flowers.
In the towns and villages along the coast you’ll find ancient churches, some dating back to the 12th century. Visit the icon of the Black Madonna in Positano’s Church of Santa Maria Assunta and the silver bust of St. Luke in the San Luca Church in Praiano.
The Amalfi Coast has a Mediterranean climate, so expect hot summers and mild winters. Get around using the affordable SITA (Società Italiana Trasporti Automobilistici) buses that run between towns. The narrow roads can become gridlocked during the busy tourist months between June and August. You’ll find less traffic and cooler weather in May and September, the best time to explore this incredible coastline.
