The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most breathtaking destinations, where cliffside villages, Mediterranean waters, lemon groves and centuries of history come together to create an unforgettable experience. Amalfi stretches along Italy’s southern coastline and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you’re planning your first visit, returning to the Amalfi Coast, or planning a guided tour, here are some of the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast.
1. Explore Positano
Positano is considered the heart of the Amalfi Coast, which makes it a must-see spot on your trip. Positano is known for its famous cliffside views, great restaurants, boutique shopping and easy access to the sea. You can spend your time wandering the streets, relaxing at the beach or enjoying a meal overlooking the water. Whether you’re sipping an espresso in a quiet piazza or watching boats on the Mediterranean, Positano captures the laid-back lifestyle that draws visitors to the Amalfi Coast year round.
Want to visit Positano but aren’t sure what season is best for you? Learn more about the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast.
2. Visit Ravello’s Gardens
Ravello offers some of the best panoramic views of Italy as it’s above the coastline. The gardens at Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufulo are among the area’s most visited attractions, featuring beautiful flowers, historic architecture and views overlooking the sea.
Did you know? Renaissance author Giovanni Boccaccio used the gardens of Ravello as the lush backdrop for one of the stories in his famous 14th-century masterpiece, The Decameron.
3. Walk the Path of the Gods
For active travelers visiting the Amalfi Coast, the Path of the Gods (Sentiero delgi Dei) is one of Europe’s most scenic hikes. The trail stretches between mountains and the sea which gives you incredible views of the coastline, Positano and Capri on clear days.
Need more hiking trails? You should also consider Sentiero dei Limoni and Valle delle Ferriere.
4. Cruise Along the Coast by Boat
The Amalfi Coast is best experienced from the water. A boat ride allows you to admire the cliffs, hidden coves and picturesque villages from a different perspective while avoiding the famous winding roads. It’s also a good way to cool off during the warmer spring and summer months.
Need a recommendation? Cruise & Snorkel Amalfi Coast, Exclusive Cruises Capri and Amalfi Coast Dream all offer great cruise experiences.
5. Discover the Town of Amalfi
Amalfi remains one of the coast’s most charming destinations. You can visit the impressive cathedral (Cathedral of St Andrew Apostle), stroll through lively piazzas such as Piazza Duomo and enjoy the atmosphere of this historic seaside town.
Did you know? The cathedral’s bronze doors were cast in Constantinople before 1066 and are the earliest of post-Roman manufacture in Italy.
6. Taste Authentic Limoncello
The Amalfi Coast is also famous for its lemons, which grow on terraced hillsides throughout the region. When you’re there you should sample locally made limoncello, a citrus liquor that is the 2nd most popular in Italy and enjoyed after dinner.
Did you know? Despite myths claiming medieval monks or ancient fishermen invented it, limoncello wasn’t officially trademarked until 1988 by Massimo Canale. It originated from a family inn recipe on the island of Capri in the early 1900s.
7. Take a Day Trip to Capri
The island of Capri makes an excellent day trip from the Amalfi Coast as it’s just offshore. You can enjoy coastal scenery, shopping, and views of the Mediterranean. There’s also the can’t-miss Blue Grotto which offers a surreal, once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness a natural optical phenomenon where the water inside a dark sea cave glows with a brilliant, otherworldly neon-blue light. It’s a sight you simply have to witness firsthand to understand the magic.
Fun Fact: Accessing the Blue Grotto requires lying flat on your back in a small rowboat and ducking beneath a tiny stone archway as the boatmen time the waves.
8. Shop for Handmade Ceramics
Aside from the stunning views on the Amalfi Coast, it’s also known for its vibrant, handcrafted ceramics. From decorative plates to intricate tilework, local ceramics make beautiful souvenirs and can be found throughout the coastal towns, especially Vietri sul Mare.
Fun Fact: In Vietri sul Mare, you can visit the famous Solimene factory building which features a striking architectural facade made from over 20,000 terracotta vases embedded in its walls.
9. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
The Amalfi Coast also has a plethora of delicious food to choose from such as fresh seafood, handmade pasta, local wines and lemon-infused specialties. Whether dining at a seaside trattoria or enjoying a meal overlooking the cliffs, the food is often as memorable as the scenery itself. The signature dishes of the region include:
- Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare – a typical Campania handmade pasta that is short, thick, and slightly irregular, served with fresh seafood
- ‘Ndunderi di Minori – pillow-like ricotta and cheese gnocchi originating from the town of Minori, usually served with a savory pork ragù
- Delizia al Limone – a dessert featuring a sponge cake soaked in limoncello and filled with an intense lemon cream
- Cannelloni all’Amalfitana – a baked pasta dish is stuffed with meat, egg, and cheese, then topped with a rich ragù
Insider Tip: When ordering scialatielli pasta with fresh seafood, never ask for parmesan cheese. Local chefs consider mixing cheese with fresh Mediterranean seafood a major culinary crime.
10. Experience the Amalfi Coast in October
While the Amalfi Coast is worth visiting in any season, October remains one of our favorite times to visit. The weather remains warm, summer crowds have diminished and you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
That’s why we’re offering a trip to the Amalfi Coast this October. At Travel Deliciously, we design immersive small-group journeys rooted in authentic relationships, local expertise, and meaningful cultural connection.
From cooking alongside local families and tasting limoncello in lemon groves to cruising the coastline and sharing unforgettable meals overlooking the Mediterranean, every detail is thoughtfully curated to help you experience the true soul of southern Italy.
Planning an Amalfi Coast getaway can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate the winding roads or crowded reservation books alone. Let Travel Deliciously take care of every detail so you can simply relax and savor the experience. Contact us today and take the first step toward your dream Italian vacation.