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 on the Amalfi Coast.
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. 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. 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. Here you’ll find an ancient Roman villa that’s one of the most unique sites of the town. It dates all the way back to the 1st 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.
Amalfi
There’s 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 and Arab and baroque influences, the Cathedral is a marvel of architecture and cultural diversity. And once you’ve checked that out, enjoy a cup of caffè 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 an approximate thirty 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. The photos you’ll take beneath the waterfalls will certainly make the trip out worth it.
Positano
A lot of people drive past the town of Positano on their way to the more-visited places on the coast. That means 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 see it by its gorgeous emerald green dome. It’s famous for a black depiction of the Virgin Mary.
According to legend, a heavenly voice demanded the icon rest in the town on its way from Constantiniople. “Posa!” the voice said, meaning “put it down.” And so the town got its name.
Positano has a lovely beach as well, and it’s the perfect place to wind up at the end of a long day. Here you’ll find the local nightlife 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.
There’s plenty more to see and do on the Amalfi Coast, so make sure to look through the rest of our blog to get all the inside information!
I Want More Italy!
- If you want us to curate an amazing experience in Rome (and beyond!), contact our Trip Planning Team to coordinate an unforgettable Italian experience.
- Check out our YouTube video and step-by-step guide about how to do Rome in a Day. If you’d prefer to let us guide you, check out our Rome tours.
- Unsure of where to stay in Rome? Read this guide!
- Follow our adventures in Italy on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Then, comment and tell us what you want us to cover next.
Leave a Reply