Perhaps you have already decided that the Amalfi Coast will be your next holiday destination.
Maybe you have already booked your hotel, B&B or holiday home and are now looking for ideas and inspiration to plan your itinerary, imagining yourself already on holiday and making the wait even more enjoyable.
By the way, have you already read our guide with 8 tips for first-time visitors to the Amalfi Coast?
We have created this short guide for you, which will give you twenty ideas for experiences to enjoy on the Amalfi Coast.
Obviously, the paragraphs you are reading are not intended to cover all the possible activities in the different destinations in a single post, but simply to offer you some interesting and fun ideas to help you better plan your holiday.
We have based our choice of activities and experiences on two fundamental criteria: the coastal vibe and the local authenticity.
When we talk about ‘coastal vibe’, we are referring to the rich and fascinating mix of emotions that we locals often experience, especially on warm and pleasant spring Sundays: the quiet and peaceful joy of living for those who seek to enjoy the simplicity and beauty of their surroundings, following a slow and enjoyable pace.
On the other hand, by “authenticity”, we refer to the characteristic of certain experiences or activities that have the ability to convey the essence and spirit of these places, their traditions and habits, without being contaminated by the glamour of activities designed specifically for tourists.
In short, in the paragraphs that follow, we have condensed what we believe to be the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast during your holiday. Consider them as recommendations from your local friends and put them to good use when planning your stay here.
If you are looking for ideas to plan your itinerary, read this guide too!
Enjoy reading and happy choosing!
Table of Contents
A dip where the water is at its bluest: a day at a more secluded beach
We have already talked about the beaches of the Amalfi Coast in this guide, but this time we have a few more suggestions for you.
The Amalfi Coast, from Vietri sul Mare to Positano, boasts around a hundred beaches, ranging from the most central and crowded to the most difficult to reach and, for this very reason, the most secluded.
If you are staying in the area for several days and you love the sea and the beach, we highly recommend spending a day discovering a less central beach.
Trust us: if you venture off the beaten track, you will discover some real hidden gems. In Erchie, a beach nestled in a quiet village and accessible only on foot awaits you, which will captivate you with its fine sand and crystal-clear waters. Perfect if you want a relaxing experience away from the crowds.
In Cetara, Marina di Cetara awaits you with its picture-postcard view: pastel-coloured fishermen’s houses set against a backdrop of sand and pebbles lapped by a deep blue sea. And for a dip in a dreamy cove, the Duoglio beach in Amalfi, accessible by sea or via a panoramic staircase, will give you unforgettable moments.
Bonus tip from a local: for a day of relaxation and good food by the sea, choose Santa Croce beach in Amalfi. After a refreshing swim, treat yourself to lunch or dinner at the Zia Teresa restaurant, where you can enjoy local specialities in an authentic and cosy atmosphere.
Reach Ravello on foot from Minori
If you are staying in Minori or Maiori, we recommend this pleasant walk to reach the town of Ravello in an alternative way.
In Minori, walk along Corso Vittorio Emanuele until you reach Via Cesare Carola and take the long staircase near the municipal cemetery.
This route will take you to Ravello in about 30-40 minutes, passing through quiet houses and wonderful views.
You will pass through the picturesque village of Torello and then reach the City of Music.
If you follow the steps without taking any detours and continuing straight ahead, you will reach the Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium, from where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the entire Amalfi Coast.
From here, you can easily reach the town centre and visit Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone or the charming Duomo.
We recommend this walk especially if you are travelling in spring or autumn, the best times of year for the most pleasant climate.Bonus tip from a local: remember to pack a pair of comfortable shoes, if not hiking boots, then at least trainers.
A sunset aperitif in Praiano
In our opinion, Praiano offers the most beautiful panoramic sunsets on the Amalfi Coast.
In the midst of summer, sunset becomes an unforgettable combination of carefree glamour and romance: the sky slowly turns shades of yellow, orange and red, the air becomes cooler and more pleasant, dispelling the heat of the day, and evening slowly descends as you sip a delicious drink in the company of your travel companion!
If you are travelling as a couple, an aperitif at sunset is a must!Bonus tip from a local: since buses do not run in the evening, if you are travelling by public transport, we recommend checking bus timetables in advance. Otherwise, book a car with driver or hire a scooter.
A walk along the Path of the Lemons
The Path of the Lemons is an unmissable experience for anyone who wants to soak up the true essence of the Amalfi Coast.
This walk of about 2.5 km, with an elevation gain of only 150 metres, is suitable for everyone and offers breathtaking views of the terraced landscapes cultivated with lemons, the symbol of this land.
Imagine walking among intense scents and bright colours, far from the chaos of crowded beaches, in an atmosphere suspended in time.
The ideal time to fully enjoy the trail is in spring, when the climate is particularly suitable for outdoor walks.
If you come to the Amalfi Coast during the summer, we recommend taking the walk just before sunset, when the warm light envelops the landscape and offers unforgettable emotions. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to meet local farmers, guardians of ancient traditions, and discover the secrets of growing the “sfusato amalfitano” lemon, the most famous in the world.
Although the name may be misleading, the lemon groves are not directly visible from the trail, as they are located on private terraces. However, if you look up beyond the low walls, you can admire the sprawling lemon groves and, with a little luck, catch a glimpse of the farmers at work.Bonus tip from a local: for an even more authentic experience, we recommend booking a guided tour, such as this one we have selected for you, which will allow you to venture into a lemon garden and taste typical products such as lemonade and lemon salad.
A day of total relaxation on a boat
If you are planning a summer holiday on the Amalfi Coast, a day on a boat is an experience not to be missed.
A boat tour will allow you to reach secret coves, such as Spiaggia degli Innamorati (Lovers’ Beach), a corner of paradise for couples in search of romance, or Spiaggia del Cavallo Morto (Dead Horse Beach), accessible only by sea, where you can enjoy the peace and quiet away from the crowds.
You can explore the Pandora Cave, with its crystal clear waters, or the Emerald Cave, where the light creates unforgettable plays of colour.
If you are a lover of good food, you can combine your boat trip with a stop at one of the seaside restaurants, where you can enjoy typical dishes based on fresh fish while admiring the view. And for an even more exclusive experience, you can reach the Li Galli archipelago, a magical place that has inspired myths and legends.
Whether you are looking for adventure, romance or relaxation, a boat tour of the Amalfi Coast will give you unforgettable emotions and allow you to discover the beauty of this land from a unique perspective.Bonus tip from a local: in our ‘Experiences’ section, we have selected the best boat trips to take on the Amalfi Coast!
Scala, Tramonti, Agerola: don’t miss the hidden gems
Are you ready to discover the most authentic and hidden side of the Amalfi Coast?
Leave the most popular destinations behind for a moment and venture out to discover villages such as Scala, Tramonti and Agerola, where time seems to have stopped and life still flows at the slow pace of ancient traditions. Scala, the oldest village on the coast, will welcome you with its medieval atmosphere, quiet alleys and breathtaking views.
In Tramonti, nestled in the green Lattari Mountains, you can savour the true essence of the coast, among hiking trails, ancient churches and centuries-old vineyards. And in Agerola, overlooking a plateau dominating the sea, you can enjoy unparalleled views of the coast while exploring mountain trails and ancient rural villages.
These hidden gems of the Amalfi Coast offer a unique travel experience, far from mass tourism, where you can get in touch with the local culture, savour the authentic flavours of traditional cuisine and immerse yourself in the unspoilt beauty of the landscape.
Add a ‘getaway’ to these less crowded villages to your travel itinerary and discover the authentic essence of the Amalfi Coast, where peace and tranquillity reign supreme.
Take part in a patron saint’s festival to experience authentic local traditions
If you want to immerse yourself in the authentically local traditions of the Amalfi Coast, we recommend taking part in one of the many patron saint festivals that enliven the villages during the summer. These events, which combine faith, devotion and folklore, will offer you a unique and unforgettable experience, allowing you to discover the deepest soul of this land.
Among the most evocative festivals, we recommend the Festa di San Pietro in Cetara (29 June), an event that celebrates the patron saint of fishermen with a procession at sea and fireworks displays. In Amalfi, the Feast of St. Andrew (27 June) is an unmissable opportunity to admire the statue of the patron saint carried in procession and to watch the fireworks over the sea. In Maiori, the Feast of Santa Maria a Mare (15 August) is an event very dear to the local population, which ends with an impressive fireworks display over the sea.
Taking part in one of these celebrations will allow you to enjoy an authentic experience, far from the mass tourist circuits, and to get in touch with the local culture. You can watch religious processions, taste typical dishes and let yourself be carried away by the festive atmosphere that enlivens the villages.Bonus tip from a local: if you want to discover other special events in our area, we recommend you check out the ‘Events’ section of the website!
An adrenaline-filled experience: parasailing on the Amalfi Coast
Forget the usual boat trips and get ready for an adrenaline-filled experience that will have you flying over one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world: parasailing!
Imagine being suspended in the air, with a colourful parachute pushing you towards the sky, while you admire the rugged coastline, picturesque villages and crystal clear waters from a completely new perspective.
Take off from a boat and feel the adrenaline rush through your veins as you rise higher and higher, treating yourself to a breathtaking view of the Amalfi Coast. Choose to experience this adventure alone or in the company of a friend or your significant other for an even more exciting and romantic experience. Parasailing is the perfect activity for those seeking thrills and an extraordinary adventure, a unique way to discover the beauty of the Amalfi Coast from an unforgettable perspective.
You can book it directly here.
Taste the delicacies made with Amalfi sfusato lemons
In this article, we explain why the Amalfi sfusato lemon is such a prized variety and try to understand how our ancestors transformed this complex and challenging territory into a lush oasis through lemon cultivation.
You should know that we are deeply rooted in our native lemon and use it in many dishes, both sweet and savoury, thanks to the unique characteristics of the Amalfi IGP lemon, which make it extremely fragrant and pleasant.
So, when you’re here, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the thousand nuances of this unique product!
For example, don’t miss the lemon sorbet: its refreshing freshness will pamper you after a busy day at the beach or during a late afternoon stroll.
Don’t overlook other specialities, such as the lemon sospiro from Pasticceria Trieste in Maiori: a delicate sponge cake filled with lemon cream and covered with a light lemon icing, which will make you say, yes, the name is spot on, from the very first bite.Bonus tip from a local: on summer evenings, Mr Antonio’s apecar stops in the villages along the coast. He is a small artisan entrepreneur who prepares and sells delicious lemon sorbet. Don’t miss his slush: we are sure that once you have tasted it, you will wait for him to arrive every evening, just like us.
Amazement and wonder in the Emerald Grotto
Imagine immersing yourself in an enchanted place, where light plays with the water, creating emerald reflections that will leave you breathless: welcome to the Emerald Grotto, a natural wonder nestled between Amalfi and Conca dei Marini. Discovered by chance in 1932 by a local fisherman, this grotto is a true hidden treasure of the Amalfi Coast.
Descending into the depths of the cave, you will find yourself surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites reflected in the crystal-clear water, creating a magical and surreal atmosphere. The sunlight filtering through an underwater crack colours the water an intense emerald green, offering an unforgettable spectacle.You can reach the Emerald Grotto either by land, descending in a panoramic lift, or by sea, on a boat trip that will allow you to admire the coast from a unique perspective.
Want to know more? Read our article dedicated to the Emerald Grotto!
Reach Atrani on foot via a scenic road
After visiting the splendid Amalfi, its cathedral and attractions, and after savouring its chaotic, mondaine atmosphere, you can reach the nearby town of Atrani.
Instead of taking the short stretch of road that separates the two towns, you can take the “secret” road, which allows you to reach the picturesque square of Atrani, walking among quiet houses and breathtaking views.
To do this, under the monumental staircase of Amalfi Cathedral, on the left, take the passage that quickly leads you to Piazza Municipio.
From here, next to the colourful majolica murals, you will notice a staircase leading up to the ancient Rione Capo di Croce.
As you climb the stairs and take Via Roberto il Guiscardo, a dreamlike view, unique in the world, will open up before you, leading to the white houses of Atrani.
Proceeding at a slow pace, you will reach the characteristic little square of Atrani in about twenty minutes, dominated by the ancient church of San Salvatore de’ Birecto, dating back to the 10th century.
Walk along the Path of the Gods
If you are a trekking enthusiast and want to enjoy an unforgettable experience on the Amalfi Coast, don’t miss the Path of the Gods!
This trail, which connects Bomerano to Nocelle, will offer you breathtaking views and total immersion in nature, allowing you to walk literally suspended between the sky and the sea, with the rugged coastline stretching out at your feet and the island of Capri peeking out on the horizon.
The ideal time to tackle this hike is in spring, when nature awakens and the scents of the Mediterranean scrub fill the air. Alternatively, you can choose a beautiful autumn day, when temperatures are milder and the colours of the landscape are tinged with warm, enveloping hues.
To reach the starting point, we recommend using public transport: SITA buses depart from Naples, Castellammare di Stabia and Amalfi and will take you directly to Bomerano. Alternatively, you can opt for Travelmar ferries, which offer connections from Salerno and other towns along the coast, combined with a shuttle service to Bomerano.
Once you arrive at your destination, get ready to experience a unique adventure, among scenic trails, ancient villages and unforgettable views. And don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of this magical place!
Have you already done the Sentiero degli Dei and are looking for alternative ideas? Read our guide to unmissable excursions on the Amalfi Coast!
Bonus tip from a local: in addition to checking out our article dedicated to the Sentiero degli Dei, if you prefer to tackle this hike with greater confidence, you can choose an expert guide from our carefully selected list!
Discover hidden caves by kayak!
If you are an adventure lover and want to discover the Amalfi Coast from a unique perspective, a kayak excursion is an experience not to be missed.
Would you like to paddle along the unspoilt coast, admiring sea caves, waterfalls and hidden beaches accessible only by sea?
Starting from Maiori, you can reach Amalfi by kayak, stopping at the Marmorata waterfalls and the beach of Castiglione di Ravello, where you can dive into the crystal clear waters and go snorkelling.
During the trip, your expert guide will tell you interesting facts about the history, culture and traditions of the coast, revealing the secrets of the villages nestled among the rocks and overlooking the sea.
You can admire breathtaking views, discover hidden corners of the coast and enjoy an unforgettable experience, paddling through the crystal clear waters of the Amalfi Coast!
Enjoy the signature desserts of Maestro Sal De Riso and Pasticceria Pansa
If you have a sweet tooth and you are on the Amalfi Coast, you cannot miss the creations of Sal De Riso and Pasticceria Pansa. Both are true temples of taste, where you can savour the typical delights of the local tradition, reinterpreted with flair and skill.
In Minori, Sal De Riso’s pastry shop will welcome you with a triumph of aromas and colours. Let yourself be tempted by his famous ricotta and pear cake, a perfect combination of flavours and textures, or by the lemon caprese, a tribute to the citrus fruits that perfume the coast. And if you want an unforgettable experience, don’t miss the lemon Tiramisu, a reinterpretation of the classic Italian dessert that will win you over at first bite.
In Amalfi, Pasticceria Pansa will take you back in time. Founded in 1830, this pastry shop has retained its 19th-century charm, with period furnishings and an atmosphere that will take you back in time. Here you can enjoy traditional Amalfi desserts, prepared with fresh, authentic ingredients, and let yourself be enchanted by a place that has hosted famous figures such as Ibsen, Wagner and Quasimodo.
Both pastry shops are easily accessible by public transport or by car and offer an unforgettable taste experience that will make you appreciate even more the beauty and goodness of the Amalfi Coast.
Bonus tip from a local: at Sal De Riso, during the Christmas and Easter periods, don’t miss the artisan panettone and colomba cakes. They are also available in 500-gramme sizes, which are convenient to take home as gifts.
At Pansa, don’t miss the chocolate-covered orange and lemon peel: the citrus fruits are grown on the owners’ farm.
The croissants, made with sourdough, are also delicious.
Plan a romantic evening with your loved one
If you want to treat your loved one to an unforgettable evening, the Amalfi Coast is the perfect setting for a romantic experience that will remain in your hearts forever. Imagine starting the evening with an aperitif at sunset in Praiano, admiring the sun as it dips into the sea, painting the sky with shades of pink and orange.
Afterwards, you could opt for a candlelit dinner in one of the seaside restaurants in Positano, where you can enjoy local delicacies based on fresh fish, accompanied by a good glass of wine. Alternatively, depending on where you are staying, you could choose a restaurant with a panoramic terrace in Ravello to enjoy a breathtaking view of the illuminated coastline.
For a romantic after-dinner treat, you could stroll hand in hand through the narrow streets of Amalfi, admiring the illuminated cathedral, or enjoy a drink in one of the bars with live music. If you prefer a more intimate atmosphere, you could opt for a walk on the beach at Cetara, listening to the sound of the waves and admiring the stars.
Be enchanted by the Fiordo di Furore
Be enchanted by the Fiordo di Furore, a jewel set in the Amalfi Coast, where wild nature embraces a small cobblestone beach, creating a picture-perfect setting. This magical place, which also enchanted Anna Magnani and Federico Fellini, will captivate you with its unique atmosphere and timeless charm.
Admire the colourful houses clinging to the steep cliffs, the suspension bridge overlooking the bay and the turquoise waters lapping the shore: here you will discover a place where history and legend merge, where the sound of waves breaking on the rocks mingles with the scent of lemons and the surrounding vineyards.
Bonus tip from a local: to reach this corner of paradise, we recommend using public transport to avoid the problem of parking, which can be particularly difficult in high season. Arrive early in the morning, when the sunlight enhances the colours of the landscape and the beach is still quiet, to fully enjoy the beauty of this enchanted place.
Here you can discover other hidden treasures of Furore.
Discover the centuries-old vineyards of Tramonti
If you are a traveller in search of authentic flavours and local traditions, don’t miss a food and wine experience in Tramonti, the rural heart of the Amalfi Coast. This village, far from the beaten tourist track, will reveal the secrets of its fine wines and excellent raw ingredients in an atmosphere of genuine hospitality.
Imagine strolling through the lush local vineyards, kissed by the sun and scented with grapes, while discovering the ancient techniques of cultivation and wine-making, handed down from generation to generation. Visit the wineries and let yourself be captivated by the passionate stories of the producers, who will reveal the secrets of wine-making, from fermentation to ageing.
And to finish off in style, treat yourself to a tasting of fine local wines, paired with delicious local products such as cheeses, cured meats and homemade bread. A sensory experience that will make you appreciate even more the richness of the area and the passion of its inhabitants.
We have selected two themed experiences: this one, at Cantine Apicella, and this one, at Tenuta San Francesco.
Bonus tip from a local: to reach Tramonti, we recommend renting a car or scooter or hiring a driver so you can enjoy the freedom of exploring the surrounding area and admiring the breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast.
Travel through the Valle delle Ferriere
Immerse yourself in the unspoilt nature of the Amalfi Coast and discover the Valle delle Ferriere, an oasis of peace and beauty just a stone’s throw from Amalfi. This route, which winds between the Lattari Mountains and the coast, will reward you with breathtaking views, crystal-clear waterfalls and lush vegetation, where you can admire rare species such as Woodwardia radicans, a prehistoric fern.
Along the way, you will come across the ruins of ancient medieval ironworks and paper mills, where the famous Amalfi paper was produced, a craftsmanship that is still appreciated all over the world today. You can visit the Paper Museum in Amalfi and the Amatruda Paper Mill, where the tradition lives on.
If you are a trekking enthusiast, you can venture along the alternative path that leads to the Integral Reserve, where you can admire spectacular waterfalls and immerse yourself in a wild and unspoilt environment. But remember, this route is more challenging and requires good physical preparation.
This experience will allow you to discover a hidden and fascinating side of the Amalfi Coast, far from the crowds and chaos of the more touristy areas: it will be a unique opportunity to regenerate your body and mind, in contact with nature and the history of this magical place.
Highly recommended especially in spring and autumn.
Book an event at the prestigious Ravello Festival
If you are a music lover or simply want to enjoy an unforgettable experience, don’t miss the Ravello Festival, which will enchant you with the beauty of the location and the magic of the music, leaving you with memories that will stay with you for a long time.
Even before the music, you will be amazed by the location: imagine attending a concert with the stage suspended over the sea, with the lights reflecting on the water and the notes blending with the sound of the waves. The Ravello Festival is just that: a magical and unforgettable experience that will leave you breathless.
Every year, between July and August, the splendid Villa Rufolo in Ravello is transformed into an open-air theatre, hosting internationally renowned artists who perform on a stage overlooking the sea. The programme ranges from classical music to jazz, cinema and literature, offering a complete and engaging cultural experience.
Bonus tip from a local: one of the most evocative events is the concert at dawn on 11 August, when the notes blend with the colours of the sun rising over the Amalfi Coast. We recommend booking in advance, as the event is very popular and in high demand.
Plan a day trip to Capri, starting from the Amalfi Coast
If you have decided to spend more than three days on the Amalfi Coast, a day trip to Capri is an unmissable experience. The blue island, easily accessible by sea from Maiori, Amalfi or Positano, offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, glamour and relaxation.
You can spend a day sailing towards the Faraglioni, the iconic rocks that emerge from the sea, and explore the Blue Grotto, with its waters illuminated by a magical light.
We recommend climbing Monte Solaro to admire a breathtaking view of the entire island and coastline, or stopping at Villa Jovis, the residence of Emperor Tiberius, for a dip into history.
Stroll through the Piazzetta, the beating heart of Capri, and soak up the lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere. If you’re travelling in spring, you can enjoy the blossoms and mild climate, while summer is perfect for a more glamorous experience, with aperitifs at sunset and shopping in luxury boutiques.
If in doubt, read our guide to Capri!
To reach Capri, you can choose between ferries departing from the main ports of the Amalfi Coast or opt for a private boat excursion for a more exclusive experience. Remember to book in advance, especially during high season, to secure your spot and enjoy your trip to Capri to the fullest.
Bonus tip: If you prefer a more relaxing and less crowded experience, you can opt for this day cruise from Amalfi to Capri, with stops at the Li Galli Islands and free time to explore the island.
