What to see and do in the town of Amalfi.
Let’s discover the town that gives its name to the entire Amalfi Coast.
Here is an overview of what to see and do in Amalfi.
AMALFI TOWN, THE BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE
MONUMENTS AND MUSEUMS
The Cathedral of Sant’Andrea
The Cathedral of Sant’Andrea was built in 987. It is located in the main square of Amalfi at the top of a spectacular staircase.
Its elevated position and the beautiful decorations, which recall those of North African mosques with some Gothic elements, make this church a great subject for stunning photos.
At the foot of the staircase is the graceful fountain of Sant’Andrea, built in 1760.
Torre dello Ziro
In ancient times the tower was used to spot the dangerous Saracen ships, then it became a prison. Among its most famous prisoners was Joan of Aragon, called “the Mad”, in 1500.
The tower is located outside the town of Amalfi and is not exactly easy to reach. However, the remains of the building and the view are worth the effort.
The Paper Museum
Amalfi has a long tradition in the production of paper, which is still appreciated today.
The Paper Museum of Amalfi gathers machinery and equipments used to make paper in the past. The machines have not only been restored but are also functioning.
AMALFI DISTRICTS
Rione Vagliendola
Rione Vagliendola is perhaps the most characteristic district of Amalfi.
It is extremely fascinating to stroll through its narrow streets, admire the old aristocratic houses, and then stop to take a look at the Monastery of SS. Trinità or enjoy a coffee in Piazza dello Spirito Santo, the square of the district.
Arsenale, the Arsenal
In the past, Amalfi was one of the main maritime republics of Italy, along with Venice, Pisa and Genoa.
Today it is possible to visit the remains of the ancient Arsenal, the shipyard where the town fleet was built and where part of the everyday life of the city took place.
Even if it’s not a district, it’s good to remember that connected to Amalfi is the lovely town of Atrani.
TREKKING PATHS
The Amalfi Coast is a fantastic destination for those who love trekking.
Among all the paths, two are particularly popular near the town.
One is Valle dei Mulini is a restored old mule track. It’s an easy walk, which twits and turns among ruins of mills, lemon houses and the waterfalls of the Canneto stream.
The other one is the world famous Path of the Gods, a 7 km long path that allows people to enjoy the most amazing views of the Amalfi coast.
GROTTA DELLO SMERALDO, THE EMERALD GROTTO
In 1932 a local fisherman discovered the Emerald Grotto by chance.
The name is due to the astonishing shades of color of the water hit by the light that filters through the rocks.
In addition to this magic, the cave is full of columns, stalactites and stalagmites that create a suggestive atmosphere.
People can reach the Emerald Grotto via stairs and even via an elevator, but it is much more evocative to enter the cave by sea, aboard one of the small rafts made available by the locals.
BEACHES IN AMALFI
Although small, Amalfi is still a seaside town and visitors can enjoy the sun and the pleasant climate on two different beaches.
The Duoglio beach is located outside the town and can be reached via a 400 steps staircase or by sea. It’s surrounded by cliffs and there are a couple of beach resorts and a restaurant.
The Marina Grande beach is wider and more crowded because it’s easier to reach and many excursions by sea depart from here. There’re several beach resorts and is perfect for families with children.
