Amalfi Coast Travel Guide
The proximity of this twinkling coast to the city of Naples and the ruins of Pompeii means that adventurous travellers have the perfect chance to discover Southern Italy’s ancient past while relaxing in the scenic landscape.
Envisage your dream Italian coastal holiday. What comes to mind? Is it colourful villas perched on the rocky coast? Aperitivo being served on balconies with sprawling sea views? Sunset boat trips around cliffs that seem to dip straight into sapphire waters? If so, you must be thinking of the Amalfi Coast. This region embodies the quintessential Italian coastal escape, with its stylish dining scene and landscapes that vary along the northern coastline of the Salerno Gulf.
Did you know that every year up to five million tourists pay a visit to the Amalfi Coast? Think of it as an annual pilgrimage, with the sunshine, fresh seafood, and historic architecture being the chief pillars of worship.
If you’re looking for swimming spots, scenic vistas, and photo opportunities galore, read our guide to discover the best towns to visit along the Amalfi Coast. The breathtaking natural landscapes, historic villages, and fine dining of the Amalfi Coast make it a treasured holiday destination for people from all corners of the globe. Check out the guide to the towns of the Amalfi Coast to figure out which one is best suited to you.
The Amalfi Coast at a glance
If you’re curious about where the Amalfi Coast is situated, it’s in Southern Italy, right near Naples. More specifically, the coast can be found wedged between the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno.
The coast is 34 miles long, with a winding two-lane road linking each village together. These roads are best suited to experienced drivers and those who won't get overly distracted by the sensational views! On one side, you’ve got the sparkling sea and on the other side, it’s the dramatic mountains. It's a lot to take in.
Due to the inaccessibility of some parts of the coastline, the region has become a playground for the elite, with many A-listers arriving on yachts, mooring them just offshore (away from the crowds, of course).
The very best time of year to holiday on the Amalfi Coast is during spring and autumn, or the months of May and September. During this time, the crowds are smaller, and the Mediterranean temperatures aren’t too high, hovering in the early twenties, meaning you can stay outside and soak up the coastal atmosphere for longer.
Why book a holiday to the Amalfi Coast?
The Amalfi Coast is a Southern Italian paradise. This UNESCO listed region has long been famous for its beaches. These range from bustling - often crowded - beaches like Spiaggia Grande Beach in Positano to the hidden pebbled cove of Santa Croce. Regardless of which one you pick, you will be blessed with the famously sunny Mediterranean climate and crystal clear waters to splash about it. While there are a few sandy beaches, most of the swimming spots along this famed coast are pebbly.
Best tours to the Amalfi Coast
- Marvel at Rome’s medley of historic monuments by day
- Delve into the historical and architectural delights of Florence
- Pay an enlightening visit to the Roman ruins of Pompeii
- Experience an optional visit to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basillica
11 days from £1,969 pp
was £2,119 pp
Dates Available
October 2024 - October 2025
Duration
11 days
Depart From
4 airports
Meals
17 included
- Visit the extraordinary ruins of Roman Pompeii
- Enjoy a full day on the enchanting Isle of Capri
- Discover and explore colourful, historic Naples, one of Italy’s most iconic cities
- Embrace time to meander around delightful Sorrento
8 days from £1,249 pp
was £1,399 pp
Dates Available
October 2024 - October 2025
Duration
8 days
Depart From
7 airports
Excursions
3 included
Meals
14 included
- Take in Alberobello’s traditional, conical trulli houses
- Explore Lecce's Baroque buildings and Roman ruins
- Witness hilltop Ostuni’s white walls gleaming in the Italian sun
- Discover the UNESCO-listed wonders of Matera's Sassi cave-dwellings
8 days from £1,159 pp
was £1,259 pp
Dates Available
October 2024 - November 2025
Duration
8 days
Depart From
3 airports
Excursions
3 included
Meals
14 included
Places to visit on the Amalfi Coast
While the villages dotted along the coast have developed alongside each other for centuries, there are many ways in which these towns diverge.
Sorrento
Solo Travel on the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is a fantastic place to enjoy yourself as a solo traveller. Keep in mind, like many other destinations in Italy, it is a go-to destination for couples. So if you’re happy with that, head on over. It is generally safe to travel to Amalfi Coast and to travel there alone. Although if you are taking to the water for boating or swimming, ensure you don’t head to any secluded spots on your own.
Over 50s travel on the Amalfi Coast
Due to the exclusivity, higher price points and luxury accommodation in the region, the Amalfi Coast is a very popular holiday destination for over 50s travellers, with younger travellers favouring the more budget coastal locations throughout Sicily. Older travellers will delight in the fine dining, picturesque towns, and opportunities for sunset boat trips in this famed Italian region.