Top 10 Unmissable Things to Do on the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast, a ribbon of colorful villages cascading into the turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, is one of Italy’s most captivating destinations. Stretching from Positano to Vietri sul Mare, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers visitors a stunning blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delight. Here’s a curated list of 10 unforgettable things to do on the Amalfi Coast.
10 Things To Do During On The Amalfi Coast
From Sorrento to Positano, from shopping to hiking, here are the experience you should definitely live for a great vacation in Italy.
1. Shopping in Positano
Positano, the most iconic town of the Amalfi Coast, is a paradise for shoppers. The winding streets are lined with chic boutiques, artisanal workshops, and open-air stalls selling everything from handmade sandals to linen clothing and vibrant ceramics. The town’s boho-chic vibe is infectious and makes for the perfect excuse to splurge on something stylishly Italian. That is why shopping is one of the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast.
2. Hike the Path of the Gods (Il Sentiero degli Dei)
For breathtaking views and a touch of adventure, hiking the Sentiero degli Dei—or “Path of the Gods”—is a must. This trail, which stretches from Bomerano (above Amalfi) to Nocelle (above Positano), offers panoramic vistas of the coast and the endless sea below. Along the way, you’ll pass terraced vineyards, wild herbs, and remote hamlets frozen in time. It’s about a 7-kilometer hike that takes around 3 hours to complete and is suitable for anyone with moderate fitness. Just remember to bring water, wear good shoes, and enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery.
3. Take a Boat Trip to Capri
On your list of the things to do on the Amalfi Coast you should add a boat trip to the island of Capri. Depart from Positano or Amalfi and cruise across the shimmering sea, stopping first at the legendary Faraglioni—towering rock formations jutting out from the water—and then the mesmerizing Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), famous for its blue glow generated by sunlight reflecting through an underwater cavity. If conditions allow, venture inside the grotto via a small rowboat. The journey itself, with the coastal cliffs as your backdrop, is a highlight you’ll remember for a lifetime.
4. Visit the Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo)
Lesser-known but equally magical is the Emerald Grotto, located near Conca dei Marini. Discovered in 1932, this sea cave gets its name from the emerald-green light that fills the space, thanks to sunlight filtering through an underwater opening. You can reach the grotto via boat or by elevator from the main road. Inside, you’ll find striking stalactites, stalagmites, and even an underwater nativity scene placed by local divers.
5. Drive the Amalfi Coast Road (Strada Statale 163)
The SS163 is one of the most scenic drives in the world, both thrilling and beautiful. Winding along the cliffside with tight turns, hairpin bends, and dramatic drops, the road connects the region’s key towns: Positano, Praiano, Amalfi, Ravello, and more. Drive slowly, take in the sweeping sea views, and stop often. One of the most memorable things to do on the Amalfi Coast is to drive this road at sunrise or just before sunset. If you’re not confident driving, opt for a local bus or hire a driver so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
6. Taste the Local Cuisine in Cetara
Food lovers should make a pilgrimage to Cetara, a charming fishing village famous for its culinary traditions. The village is renowned for colatura di alici, an anchovy-based fish sauce that dates back to Roman times, and still made by hand today. Try it drizzled over pasta dishes for an umami-rich experience. Cetara is also a great place to sample the region’s staples: wood-fired pizza, creamy gelato, and of course, limoncello—made from the giant, fragrant lemons that grow abundantly along the coast. Dining here is as authentic as it gets.
7. Relax at the Terrace of Infinity in Ravello
Ravello, perched high above the Amalfi Coast, offers a more peaceful, refined atmosphere. Its crown jewel is Villa Cimbrone’s “Terrazza dell’Infinito” (Terrace of Infinity), a panoramic viewpoint lined with marble busts and overlooking a breathtaking sweep of sea and sky. This romantic setting has inspired writers, artists, and composers for centuries. While in Ravello, take time also to visit Villa Rufolo, famous for its gardens and summer music festival. Ravello is a place to slow down, sip a glass of wine, and let the beauty wash over you.
8. Swim at the Beaches of Marina di Praia and Fiordo di Furore
The area isn’t known for wide sandy beaches, but it does offer stunning coves and dramatic seaside spots. That is why we think that a day at the beach is one of the things to do on the Amalfi Coast. But which beach should you go to?Marina di Praia, nestled between cliffs near Praiano, is a picturesque pebble beach perfect for a peaceful dip. Nearby, the Fiordo di Furore—an ancient fjord turned beach—is an unforgettable place to swim beneath a towering stone bridge. These small, lesser-known beaches are ideal for those seeking a quieter escape from the more popular spots like Spiaggia Grande in Positano.
9. Wander the Streets of Amalfi Town
The namesake town of the coast, Amalfi offers a blend of history, charm, and vibrant local life. Visit the impressive Cathedral of Saint Andrew (Duomo di Amalfi), which dominates the main piazza with its striped façade and grand staircase. Don’t miss the Cloister of Paradise and the adjoining museum. Stroll through narrow alleys filled with artisan shops and gelaterias, and pick up some locally-made Amalfi paper—crafted using traditional methods since the 13th century.
10. Watch the Sunset from a Cliffside Restaurant
One of the simplest yet most memorable things to do on the Amalfi Coast is to enjoy dinner with a view. Countless restaurants cling to the cliffs, offering sweeping vistas. Choose one in Positano, Praiano, or Ravello, enjoy some seafood paired with a glass of local wine, and watch the sky exploding in shades of orange and pink.
Bonus Experience: Stay in a Luxury Villa on the Amalfi Coast
To truly elevate your Amalfi Coast getaway, consider staying in a private luxury villa. Imagine waking up to panoramic sea views, enjoying your morning coffee on a sun-drenched terrace, and relaxing by your own infinity pool perched on a cliff above the Mediterranean. Each of our villas offer privacy, comfort, and breathtaking surroundings. And they are ideal for families, couples, or even groups of friends.
Many villas come with exclusive services like private chefs, daily housekeeping, and concierge to help you plan boat trips, wine tastings, and more. Take a look at our properties the Amalfi Coast and book your stay!
