The Campania Region of Italy boasts miles of cliffside towns from Naples to Amalfi, all of which have the sparkling Mediterranean Sea as the backdrop. Whether you want to spend your days swimming along sun-kissed beaches and visiting hidden gardens or wandering through medieval streets lined with cafes, visiting Campania will take you to one of the most beautiful places in all of Italy, if not the world. Check out this Naples to Amalfi Coast Guide!
Begin in Naples, Birthplace of Pizza
The largest city in Southern Italy, one of the must-visit places in Naples is the historic city center, known as Spaccanapoli. This vibrant area is filled with narrow streets, charming shops, and traditional pizzerias where you can savor authentic Neapolitan pizza. Visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to an extensive collection of artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum. For art enthusiasts, the Capodimonte Museum houses an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces. To enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Bay of Naples, a visit to Castel Sant’Elmo or the Posillipo neighborhood is highly recommended. Lastly, indulging in the local cuisine, including seafood dishes and traditional pastries like sfogliatelle, is an essential part of experiencing the vibrant culinary scene.
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Best Amalfi Coast Towns
The picturesque Amalfi Coast is located on the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, and it’s known for its beautiful towns and villages, pebbled beaches, and dramatic landscapes. Here are the best Amalfi Coast towns to explore.
Capri for Italian Island Life and Nature Sites
The island of Capri is a must-visit destination on the Amalfi Coast. Take a boat ride from Sorrento or Positano to explore the stunning Blue Grotto, a sea cave famous for its mesmerizing blue hues. Stroll through the charming streets of Capri town, browse high-end boutiques, and enjoy panoramic views from the Gardens of Augustus (Giardini di Augusto). Don’t miss the chance to take a chairlift up to Mount Solaro for breathtaking vistas of the island and the surrounding sea.
Sorrento for a Charming Coastal Retreat
Sorrento is a charming town perched on cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples. Explore the narrow streets lined with colorful shops and the cafe-lined square of Piazza Tasso. Take in panoramic views from the Villa Comunale gardens, visit the historic Sorrento Cathedral, and relax on one of its small beaches or hidden coves. Discovering its tucked-away beaches and picturesque coastline is best enjoyed through a leisurely walk along the coast.
Pompeii to Step Back in Time
Venture inland to the Campania region and embark on a historical journey to the ancient city of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site once home to 11,000 residents. Seeing this 2,000-year-old city that was preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD is a captivating experience that provides a glimpse into the past.
Wander the streets, marvel at the well-preserved buildings, and visit the remarkable amphitheater. You can take a guided walking tour of Pompeii for a deep dive into the workings of this ancient city, identifying old-world homes and villas occupied by some of ancient Italy’s most noble figures.
Amalfi for History and Seaside Flair
For another one of the best places to visit on the Amalfi Coast, venture to the town of Amalfi, the namesake of this stunning coastline. Immerse yourself in the town’s rich maritime history (particularly between the 9th and 11th centuries) and visit the medieval Amalfi Cathedral, with its striking Arab-Norman architecture.
Stroll along the scenic promenade, enjoy gelato by the harbor, and explore the maze-like streets lined with shops selling handmade ceramics and local products. While Amalfi might not be as postcard-perfect as Positano, it’s still full of things and boasts a beautifully natural setting.
Positano for Postcard-perfect Beauty
No first-time visit to the Amalfi Coast is complete without experiencing the allure of Positano. This incredibly picturesque town is known for its pastel-colored houses tumbling down the cliffs towards the sparkling sea.
Spend a day sunbathing on Spiaggia Grande, the main beach, or take a boat tour along the coast to admire the captivating landscapes. Explore the labyrinthine streets filled with boutiques, galleries, and charming cafés, and be sure to indulge in delicious local Italian cuisine at a seaside restaurant.
Ravello for Natural Beauty in the Amalfi Hills
Nestled high in the hills, Ravello offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline below. Visit the enchanting Villa Cimbrone and its breathtaking Terrace of Infinity, where you can admire sweeping vistas of the sea and the surrounding landscape. Explore the medieval streets, visit the famous Villa Rufolo with its beautiful gardens and 13th-century architecture, and experience the town’s vibrant arts scene.
For nature lovers and anyone looking for amazing views of the Amalfi Coast, enjoy a hike at the nearby Valle delle Ferriere nature reserve, where waterfalls and lush greenery await.
The Amalfi Coast is a captivating destination that enchants travelers with its natural beauty, rich history, splendid towns, and beaches. From the alluring island of Capri to the historic grandeur of Amalfi, each destination offers an unforgettable trip to Italy.
How to Get to the Amalfi Coast
If arriving by air, the closest international airport is Naples International Airport (NAP). From the airport, you can opt for a private transfer, taxi, or a shared shuttle service from Naples to Amalfi Coast.
Alternatively, you can take a bus service from the airport to Naples Central Station and then board a train to Sorrento. From Sorrento, buses or ferries are available to reach different towns along the coast.
Another popular option is to hire a car and drive along the scenic coastal road, allowing for flexibility and the opportunity to explore at your own pace.
You can also take a ferry from Naples or Salerno to Positano or Amalfi.
