6 Cities to Visit on the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is, without a doubt, one of the most charming and cinematic places in Italy. When I arrived, I felt like I had stepped into a painting, with colorful villages clinging to cliffs and the deep blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea stretching out in the background. Spanning about 50 kilometers of pure beauty, each town has its own charm, history, and breathtaking views. To truly enjoy it, I recommend taking a few days to soak in the magic of each stop and discover little corners that stay in your memory forever.

Our blogs provide complete information about each country and city to make your experience even more fulfilling. If you want to go straight to the Amalfi Coast information, click here or choose one of the options from the list below.

Basic Information about Italy

• Language: Italian is the official language of Italy, spoken throughout the country. Some regions, such as South Tyrol, also recognize German and Ladin as co-official languages.
• Capital: Rome is the capital of Italy, a city rich in history, home to ancient ruins, museums, and iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Vatican.
• Currency: The official currency is the euro (EUR). It is always a good idea to check exchange rates before traveling.
• Time Zone: Italy follows Central European Time (GMT+1), making it easier for travelers coming from other European countries to adapt.

Required Documents to Enter Europe

• Passport: To enter Europe, which is part of the Schengen Area, a valid passport is required. It must be valid for at least three months beyond the return date. Make sure it is in good condition and has enough blank pages for entry stamps.
• Return Ticket: In addition to a passport, travelers must present a return ticket, proving their intention to leave the country after a tourist stay of up to 90 days.
• Financial Proof: In some cases, proof of sufficient financial means to cover the stay may be required, such as bank statements, income proof, or other financial documents.
• Accommodation Proof: Travelers must present proof of accommodation, such as a hotel or hostel reservation, or an invitation letter from a host in Italy. This document ensures that you have a place to stay during your trip.
• Travel Insurance: Do not forget to purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents, and other unforeseen events. Insurance is mandatory for travelers to the Schengen Area and provides assistance in case of health issues, accidents, or trip cancellations. Find your travel insurance here!

How to Get to Italy

Italy has an excellent transportation infrastructure, with several international airports and railway connections. Rome, Milan, and Venice are the main entry points, receiving flights from all over the world. From these cities, you can easily explore the rest of the country by train or bus.

• Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) – The main airport in Italy, located about 30 km from the center of Rome. It is one of the busiest in Europe, with direct connections to many destinations worldwide.
• Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) – Located 50 km from Milan, it is the largest airport in northern Italy and has many international flights.
• Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) – Located near Venice, it is the ideal gateway for travelers who wish to explore the famous canals and northern Italy.

How to Get to the Amalfi Coast

For those coming from outside Italy, the closest airports to the Amalfi Coast are in Rome and Naples. Between the two, Naples is an excellent choice as it offers a faster and more convenient connection to the region. From there, you have two main train options to start your trip:

1. Train from Naples to Sorrento

This is one of the most popular routes, as Sorrento is a convenient starting point for exploring the Amalfi Coast. The journey is taken on the Circumvesuviana line, and while the train is simple, it offers beautiful views along the way. Once in Sorrento, you can rent a car or take the local SITA Sud buses, which travel along the coast, passing through cliffs and tunnels with incredible sea views.

2. Train from Naples to Salerno

Another interesting alternative is heading directly to Salerno, which also provides easy access to the Amalfi Coast. The advantage of Salerno is that it is a larger city, offering more affordable accommodation options and serving as a strategic point for visiting Amalfi, Positano, and other regions of Italy. From Salerno, you can take SITA Sud buses or even boats to explore the coast by sea.

During our trip, we chose to stay in Naples and take day trips by train to the Amalfi Coast. If we had to select one place to stay exclusively for this part of the trip, we would probably choose Salerno for its practicality and cost-benefit.

For more information about the Amalfi Coast buses operated by SITA Sud, visit their official website: sitasudtrasporti.it.

The 6 Must-Visit Cities on the Amalfi Coast:

1. Sorrento

Sorrento is the perfect starting point for your journey along the Amalfi Coast, combining the authentic Mediterranean atmosphere with an elegance full of tradition. Famous for producing limoncello, the delicious lemon-based liqueur typical of the region, the city invites you to explore its charming streets, filled with shops, markets, and small cafés. A visit to Marina Grande is a must: here, the tranquil atmosphere and colorful houses create a charming contrast with the deep blue sea. At night, Sorrento lights up and comes alive with its outdoor restaurants and bars, where you can savor fresh and authentic Italian dishes. A hidden gem in Sorrento is the "secret" natural pool, Bagni della Regina Giovanna, a special spot for a refreshing swim. Although it gets crowded during peak season, especially in July and August, in less busy months, it is an incredible stop and well worth a visit!

2. Positano

When you think of the Amalfi Coast, you're probably picturing Positano. It is arguably the most photographed city on the Amalfi Coast, and for good reason. Its stacked houses on the cliffs, painted in vibrant shades of pink, orange, and yellow, create an unforgettable sight. Beyond the beauty of its narrow streets and endless staircases revealing artisanal shops and local fashion, the city offers one of the best beaches in the region, Spiaggia Grande. Take a stroll by the sea, explore exclusive boutiques, and if you're lucky, watch the sunset paint the Tyrrhenian waters in a breathtaking display of colors.

3. Amalfi

Amalfi is the cultural heart of the Amalfi Coast and boasts one of the richest histories in the region. The city was a powerful maritime republic during the Middle Ages and still preserves many monuments that tell this story, such as the impressive Cathedral of Sant'Andrea, with its unique blend of architectural styles. Amalfi is perfect for those who want to dive into local history, stroll through charming streets, and experience the medieval spirit of Italy, still alive in the details of the city's buildings and squares. A great advantage of Amalfi is that its beaches are close to the city center, without the need to take a boat or descend from high points.

4. Ravello

If you want to enjoy unparalleled views of the sea and mountains, Ravello is the perfect place. Situated in an elevated position, the town is a haven of tranquility and elegance, famous for its stunning gardens and historic villas, such as Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone. The beautifully maintained flower gardens, combined with the panoramic view, create an almost magical atmosphere. Ravello is also known for its Music Festival, which attracts renowned international artists and offers open-air concerts during the summer.

5. Maiori

Maiori is the ideal town for those looking for beaches and a more peaceful atmosphere. With one of the largest stretches of sand on the Amalfi Coast, Maiori is perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, and swimming in the calm waters. The Church of Santa Maria a Mare is one of the local highlights, located atop a hill overlooking the town. Built in the 13th century, this church is famous for its impressive colorful majolica-tiled roof, which beautifully reflects the sunlight and stands out in the landscape. Inside, the ornate altar and sacred sculptures offer a serene and charming ambiance, ideal for a pause during your stroll. The view from the church, with the sea in the background, completes the experience, making it a must-see spot in Maiori.

6. Salerno

Salerno, although a larger and busier city, does not lose its charm. Its fascinating medieval center is filled with historic alleys leading to cultural attractions, offering visitors an authentic and enchanting experience. Salerno also boasts several historical landmarks, such as the impressive Salerno Cathedral, famous for its richly detailed interior, and the Castello di Arechi, a medieval fortress perched on a hilltop, providing a spectacular panoramic view of the city and the coast. Additionally, being a larger city, it offers a variety of restaurants and accommodation options, making it an excellent base for exploring the Amalfi Coast more affordably.

Important Tips

Well, I hope you enjoyed learning a bit more about the wonders of the Amalfi Coast! But before we wrap up, here are some key considerations to avoid surprises on your trip.

As you may have noticed from the images, some towns are situated high in the mountains, while others are closer to sea level. If your goal is to enjoy the beaches without having to travel too much, Amalfi might be a good choice. On the other hand, if you want breathtaking panoramic views, Positano is the ideal destination.

Another important point is the perspective of the landscapes. Many of the photos we see of the Amalfi Coast are taken from a high vantage point or from the sea. This means that while walking within the towns, you may not fully grasp the grandeur and beauty of the region. For this reason, we strongly recommend a boat tour to admire the coast from a privileged angle.

And if you’d like to know our opinion, I dare say that our favorite town to spend the day was Maiori. Its accessible and less crowded beaches made the experience more enjoyable. However, it's worth noting that while it is a great choice for relaxation, Maiori is not necessarily the most beautiful or the most touristy town in the region.

Regardless of your itinerary, the Amalfi Coast promises unforgettable experiences. Have a great trip and enjoy every moment!