Amalfi

Campania, Italy

Amidst the dramatic rocky landscape of the Amalfi Coast lies the charming town of Amalfi. With just over 4,500 residents, it has been enchanting visitors from around the world for centuries. Nestled between mountains and the blue sea along the steep coastline of the Gulf of Salerno, Amalfi exudes an almost surreal beauty. And yes – the Amalfitana, the winding coastal road, is just as breathtaking as you imagine.

Top Highlights of Amalfi

Dreamy Coasts and Picturesque Villages
Top
Amalfi Coast
Amalfi
The Amalfi Coast is a spectacular stretch of coastline and is among the most celebrated travel destinations in Italy. Majestic, lush mountains plunge into the azure Tyrrhenian Sea, creating a captivating scene of rugged cliffs and charming houses that boldly perch on the edge.
Top
Amalfi Cathedral
Amalfi
The Cathedral rises proudly above the Piazza del Duomo in Amalfi. Begun in the 9th century and remodeled several times, it combines Arab-Norman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. It is particularly famous for its Norman-Arab-Byzantine facade from the 19th century and the magnificent bronze doors from Constantinople.
Paper Museum Amalfi
Amalfi
In the historic Valle dei Mulini of Amalfi, you will discover a former paper mill that has been preserving the tradition of the famous "carta bambagina" as a museum since 1969. The Museo della carta, founded by Nicola Milano, offers you authentic insights into the craftsmanship of paper making through 15- to 20-minute guided tours, which were once of great importance to the maritime Republic of Amalfi.
Saint Andrew's Fountain Amalfi
Amalfi
Cloister of Paradise
Amalfi
In the Chiostro del Paradiso, the "Paradise Cloister" of Amalfi, you will encounter impressive 13th-century architecture featuring 120 slender columns and pointed arches in Moorish style. Built by Archbishop Filippo Augustariccio between 1266 and 1268 as a burial site for noble families, the cloister houses six chapels adorned with valuable frescoes, including the famous crucifixion scene by Roberto d'Oderisio.
Amalfi Arsenal (Compass & Maritime Duchy Museum)
Amalfi
In the former shipyard of the Republic of Amalfi, known as "àrsena" since the 11th century, you can now visit the Museo della Bussola e del Ducato marinaro. The originally three-nave shipbuilding facility, where the galleys of the powerful maritime republic were once built and repaired, lost one of its ships in a severe storm in 1343.
Diocesan Museum of Amalfi
Amalfi
In the Diocesan Museum of Amalfi, located next to the Amalfi Cathedral since 1995, you will find an impressive collection of religious art treasures from the entire diocese. The museum spans the historic Basilica del Crocifisso and the adjacent Chiostro del Paradiso, where you can discover a Greek sarcophagus from the 2nd century and Roman ambons from the 12th century.
Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta
Amalfi
Chiesa di San Biagio e San Nicola dei Greci
Amalfi
Chiesa della Natività di Maria Santissima
Amalfi

A Picture-Perfect Location

Perched on the Gulf of Salerno and framed by steep mountains that rise dramatically above the coast, Amalfi radiates a unique energy. The town clings to the cliffs, cascading into a narrow valley surrounded by the impressive Monti Lattari. And then, of course, there are the famous lemons, flourishing in lush groves along the Amalfi Coast. Their intense freshness isn’t just found in every glass of Limoncello, but also in countless dishes and desserts – a true homage to Mediterranean flavors.

Sightseeing in Amalfi

Amalfi was once a powerful maritime republic, and traces of this glorious past can be found throughout the town. Amalfi Cathedral rises majestically above the main square, drawing visitors in with its ornate façade and grand staircase. Right next door, you'll find the Chiostro del Paradiso – a cloister garden in the Arab-Norman style, radiating tranquility and an air of oriental charm.

A Legacy of Papermaking Amalfi also has a long tradition of papermaking. At the Museo della Carta, you can explore this centuries-old craft and discover how Amalfi once flourished as a major center of trade in Europe.

Beaches and Boat Tours

The beaches in and around Amalfi are rather small and often crowded, yet they still exude an undeniable charm. Snap a photo, then head up to a terrace to enjoy the stunning vista.

For spectacular views of the coastline and the endless blue sea, it's best to take a boat tour along the coast to Positano or even the island of Capri – both perfect for a day trip. Or lace up your hiking boots and set off on one of the many trails in the surrounding Monti Lattari mountains, where breathtaking coastal views and dramatic cliffs await.

Travel Essentials

Best Time to Visit

April to June and September to October are ideal to visit the region due to its pleasant weather and moderate tourist crowds.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Amalfi, with nature in full bloom and mild temperatures ranging from 13°C to 20°C — perfect for hiking and sightseeing.

As a major bonus, there are still fewer tourists (except around Easter). However, May can already be quite busy.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the peak tourist season, with temperatures reaching around 30°C and the sea offering wonderfully warm waters — perfect for a beach vacation and water sports. That said, accommodations should be booked well in advance. Expect crowded streets, making road trips less ideal. Instead, opt for boats, trains, or buses to get around more easily.

Autumn (September to November)

With mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 26°C, autumn is perfect for hiking, while the sea remains warm enough for a swim. As the school year begins, tourist numbers drop, making it an even more enjoyable time to visit.

  • Note: Increased rainfall in November; some tourist facilities begin to close

Winter (December to February)

In winter, most tourist facilities are closed, and ferry services are limited. The climate is cool, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 13°C and a high chance of rain.

How to get to Amalfi?

You have several options to reach Amalfi. You can drive along the breathtaking SS163 or take one of the many ferries that operate during the tourist season. While Amalfi itself isn’t connected by train, you can travel to Salerno or Vietri sul Mare by train and then continue by bus or ferry.

By Plane

The nearest international airport is in Naples (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino), about 70 km from Amalfi.

By Car

The rugged, steep Amalfi Coast, with its breathtaking vistas, is perfect for a scenic coastal drive, especially along the famous SS163. A road trip is best enjoyed in spring or autumn when traffic is lighter, and the experience is more relaxed. In summer, however, renting a car is not recommended — narrow roads, heavy tourist crowds, and frequent congestion can make driving quite frustrating. Parking is also scarce due to limited space. If you still want to explore by road during the summer, consider renting a Vespa instead.

By Train

  • To Salerno: From Naples, you can reach Salerno by train in about 30 to 50 minutes. Salerno is a great starting point for traveling onward to Amalfi.
  • To Vietri sul Mare: Alternatively, you can take a train from Naples to Vietri sul Mare, the only train station directly on the Amalfi Coast. The journey takes less than an hour. From there, take a SITA Sud Bus or Pintour Bus to reach Amalfi.

By Bus

Traveling by bus in the Amalfi Coast region is the most budget-friendly option, with fares typically ranging from €2 to €4, depending on the distance traveled. The Sita Sud bus service connects major towns like Salerno, Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento, offering an economical way to explore the scenic coastline.

However, it's important to note:

  • Tickets must be purchased in advance from tabaccherie (tobacco shops), newsstands, or other authorized vendors.
  • Buses can get crowded, especially in peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
  • The winding coastal roads may lead to delays, especially during busy times.
  • The schedule varies, depending on the season.

By Ferry

Ferries are with €7–€22 per trip more expensive, but offer a more comfortable and truly beautiful alternative. During the summer months, ferries from Salerno and Sorrento run to Amalfi.

Interested?
Start planning your next adventure!

Day Trips

Amalfi's central location along the Amalfitana makes it the perfect base for day trips to nearby destinations, a boat excursion to the island of Capri, or a scenic hike along the Path of the Gods.

For inspiration, we’ve curated a selection of the best excursions in the region.

Culinary Delights of the Amalfi Region

The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its diverse regional specialties, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The area's famous Amalfi lemons, along with sweet oranges and clementines, are iconic symbols of the region. Lemons are used not only for making Limoncello and desserts but also as a refreshing ingredient in many dishes, adding a bright, citrusy note.

Here are some must-try specialties:

Appetizers

Mozzarella di Bufala

Mozzarella di Bufala Campana is a high-quality buffalo mozzarella from the Campania region, considered one of the best in Italy. Whether served in salads, on pizza, or simply on its own, its fresh and creamy texture makes it an unforgettable delicacy.

Alici di Cetara

The coastal village of Cetara is famous for its traditional delicacies: salted anchovies (Alici di Cetara) and Colatura di Alici, a fermented anchovy essence used like a refined fish sauce. These anchovies are often enjoyed in salads or as a flavorful accompaniment to other dishes.

Main Courses

Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare

Scialatielli is a thick, short ribbon pasta traditionally made along the Amalfi Coast. It is typically served with fresh seafood such as mussels, shrimp, and squid, making it a true taste of the Mediterranean.

Totani e Patate

A rustic yet delicious dish of squid and potatoes, cooked with garlic, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. Simple but bursting with flavor.

Spaghetti alla Colatura di Alici

This pasta dish showcases Colatura di Alici, a rich and aromatic anchovy essence from Cetara, giving it a bold and umami-packed taste.

Impepata di Cozze

A classic yet flavorful dish featuring steamed mussels generously seasoned with freshly ground black pepper.

Desserts

Melanzane al Cioccolato

An unexpected but beloved specialty of the region, eggplant with chocolate is a unique culinary experience. The eggplant is sweetened, fried, and layered with a rich chocolate sauce, almonds, and a hint of lemon liqueur. While it may sound unusual, its deep, complex flavors make it a true Amalfi Coast delicacy.

Delizie al Limone

These “Lemon Delights” are soft, sponge-like cakes filled with velvety lemon cream and covered in a delicate lemon glaze. They are a must-try for citrus lovers and a signature dessert of the Amalfi Coast.

Sfogliatella

These crispy, multi-layered pastry shells are filled with sweet ricotta cream and a hint of lemon, making them a perfect pairing with an espresso. A classic treat from the Campania region.

Limoncello

The Amalfi Coast is the birthplace of Limoncello, a famous lemon liqueur made from the region’s large, intensely aromatic lemons. Traditionally served as a digestif after meals, Limoncello offers a refreshing, zesty flavor, with Amalfi lemons giving it an exceptionally smooth and fragrant taste.

Events

Each year, the Historic Regatta of the Maritime Republics takes place, where the former seafaring republics compete in a traditional boat race. If you're visiting at the end of June or in November, you can experience the Festival of Saint Andrew, Amalfi’s patron saint, celebrated with grand processions and a lively festive atmosphere.

Are you sure?