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3 Great Towns To Visit on The Amalfi Coast
Sean Finelli
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most well-visited places in Italy, for both foreigners and Italians alike. Located in the Campania region, the area enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate and beautiful views looking out onto the sea. Of course, you are free to enjoy one of the many beaches along the coast, but here are a few more things to do in three great Amalfi Coast towns.
If you’ve dreamed of visiting Italy’s heavenly Amalfi Coast but aren’t sure where to go, these three towns are a great place to start. You’ll enjoy beautiful views, rich history, and delicious local food. Find out more about each town and why to visit.
Sorrento
Above the pearly blue water of the Bay of Naples, sits the beautiful city of Sorrento. People call this place the “land of colors” and for good reason—the colorful houses, orange and lemon trees, and expansive view of the bay make for a photo-worthy trip. Here are a few places to check out.
If you’re staying in Rome and want to see the Amalfi Coast for yourself, check out our Rome to Pompeii Day Trip, featuring a trip to Sorrento!
Sorrento has several famous piazzas that are popular spots to explore, and the Piazza Tasso is the most famous of these with its carefully carved sculpture of the town’s patron saint. This is a great central place to get your bearings and look around and it’s just around the corner from some great shopping too! Just take the via S. Cesareo!
One of the main sites of the town is the Sorrento Cathedral. While the front of this beautiful structure only dates back to the early 20th century, the doors of the cathedral come all the way from 11th century Constantinople. Don’t let the modest exterior fool you. Inside you’ll find elegant arches towering over the congregation. The gorgeously carved marble altar and nativity scene are the church’s main highlights and feel free to light a candle before you leave.
Taking things even farther back, check out the Roman ruins while you’re in town. After a short bus to the peaceful inlet of Punta de Capo, just west of the city, you’ll find an ancient Roman villa that’s one of the most unique sites in the town. It dates all the way back to the first century! As you look out at the beautiful water, it’s easy to see why ancient Greeks thought Sorrento was the home of the mermaids.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our Amalfi Coast Guide for more resources.
Amalfi
There are tons of things to do in the town of Amalfi itself. It’s a place that has known visitors for over a century, with some of the older monasteries doubling as hotels. It faces south, with a breathtaking view of the Thyrennian sea. Once you’ve taken that perfect picture by the water, it’s time to see what the rest of town has in store.
The Piazza Duomo sits at the center of town. It is overlooked by the stunning Saint Andrew’s Cathedral. The cathedral is a must-see. Its gorgeous striped facade and long staircase really make this place stand out. With an interesting mix of medieval, Arab, and baroque influences, the cathedral is a marvel of architecture and cultural diversity. Once you’ve checked that out, enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the cafes looking out onto the square.
One of the most special experiences you can have in Amalfi is a lovely hike out to Valle delle Ferriere in the Riserva Statale Valle delle Ferriere. After about a 30-minute hike on foot from town, you will find yourself surrounded by towering waterfalls and lush green foliage. It’s a peaceful place and an easy walk. Also, the photos you’ll take beneath the waterfalls will certainly make the trip out worth it.
A lot of people drive past the town of Positano on their way to the more-visited places on the Amalfi coast. So, it’s the perfect place to check out if you want to beat the crowds.
Tucked away in the hills overlooking the Thyrennian sea, Positano benefited from maritime trade throughout the Renaissance and beyond. You can still see the impact of this commerce in the stacked houses that stretch up to the sky.
This town has its own share of architectural sites to see. The Santa Maria Assunta church sits in the middle of town. You can recognize it by its gorgeous emerald green dome. It’s famous for its black-colored depiction of the Virgin Mary.
According to legend, a heavenly voice demanded the icon rest in the town on its way from Constantinople. “Posa!” the voice said, meaning “put it down.” And so the town got its name.
Also, Positano has a lovely beach, and it’s the perfect place to end a long day. Here you’ll find the local nightlife with people enjoying the view of the sea below. Have a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants, and enjoy the refreshing breeze from the water.
2 DAYS on the AMALFI COAST! Restaurants, Attractions, and More!
The Amalfi Coast is an amazing cluster of cliffside towns with great beaches, food, and views! Plan where to stay in this magnificent area in the best towns.
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