Best Things to Do Along the Amalfi Coast

/ Global Travels, Italy / By

The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most iconic destinations, known for its colourful cliffside villages, Mediterranean beaches and historic towns. From boat cruises and hilltop gardens to local food and scenic walking trails, there’s plenty to discover beyond its famous coastal views.

Wondering what to include in your Amalfi Coast itinerary? Whether you prefer organised tours, independent sightseeing or a relaxing day beside the sea, there’s something here for every traveller.

I’ve visited the Amalfi Coast twice, each time travelling differently. My first journey was based in Sorrento, exploring by tour bus, while my second was with Toni, travelling independently by car and boat. Both visits gave me a different appreciation of this remarkable part of Italy.

Is the Amalfi Coast Worth Exploring?

Absolutely! Beyond the famous coastal scenery, you’ll find historic villages, secluded beaches, traditional Italian food and plenty of opportunities for adventure.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, the key is choosing activities that interest you rather than trying to squeeze everything into one itinerary. A few well-chosen experiences can be far more rewarding than rushing between towns.

Our Experience Exploring the Amalfi Coast

My first visit began in Sorrento, where I joined an organised bus tour along the coast. It was an excellent introduction to the region, particularly Ravello, which quickly became one of my favourite stops.

Years later, Toni and I returned during our extended road trip through Italy. This time, we navigated the winding coastal roads ourselves, explored the villages, relaxed on the beaches and took a boat cruise along the Mediterranean.

Travelling independently gave us flexibility, but it also came with challenges, especially the narrow roads and limited parking.

Having experienced both options, I’d recommend an organised tour for a first visit. It takes away much of the stress and allows you to concentrate on the places you’ve come to see.

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Take a Boat Cruise Along the Amalfi Coast

One of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of the Amalfi Coast is from the water. While the winding coastal roads offer spectacular views, a boat cruise gives you an entirely different perspective of the colourful villages, dramatic cliffs and beautiful beaches tucked along the shoreline.

During our second visit, Toni and I took a boat cruise along the coastline, and it was one of the highlights of our time in the region. Seeing the villages perched high above the Mediterranean, with buildings seemingly stacked on top of one another, was absolutely stunning.

What we particularly enjoyed was being able to sit back and take in the scenery without navigating those hair-raising coastal roads. From the water, you really begin to appreciate just how dramatically the towns have been built into the surrounding landscape.

Choosing a Boat Cruise

There are several options depending on your budget and how much time you have.

  • Sightseeing cruises: Enjoy the coastal scenery, with some tours including stops in popular villages.
  • Small-group tours: Often include opportunities to swim and visit quieter areas.
  • Private boat trips: Offer greater flexibility for couples, families or groups.
  • Public ferries: A budget-friendly way to travel between towns while enjoying the coastal views.

Our tip: Check whether your cruise includes stops ashore or is purely sightseeing. Departure points, seasonal schedules and weather conditions can also affect your plans.

Explore Amalfi Town and Its Cathedral

Amalfi town is a lively mix of history, local shops and seaside charm, with narrow streets leading away from its bustling main square.

At its centre stands Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi), an impressive landmark overlooking Piazza del Duomo. Its grand staircase and striking architecture make it worth visiting, even if you only admire it from outside.

During our visit, Toni and I explored the streets, browsed the shops and stopped for a beautiful meal. But one of my favourite memories was sitting on the cathedral steps enjoying a limoncello ice cream, watching the activity in the square. Sometimes the simplest moments are the ones you remember most.

Things to See and Do in Amalfi Town

  • Visit Amalfi Cathedral: Admire its architecture or explore the historic interior.
  • Explore the backstreets: Discover small boutiques, local produce shops and cafés beyond the main square.
  • Visit the waterfront: Stroll around the harbour and enjoy the seaside atmosphere.
  • Sample local specialities: Try traditional pastries, seafood dishes or Amalfi’s famous lemon treats.

Our tip: Amalfi can become crowded, particularly around the cathedral. Venture into the smaller streets to discover a quieter side of town.

Discover the Colourful Streets of Positano

With its pastel-coloured buildings tumbling down the hillside towards the Mediterranean, Positano is one of the Amalfi Coast’s most recognisable towns. Its steep, winding streets are filled with boutiques, cafés and glimpses of the sea between the buildings.

At the bottom of the town lies Spiaggia Grande, the famous beachfront where you can admire Positano’s colourful hillside from below.

Things to See and Do in Positano

  • Browse the boutiques: Discover handmade sandals, Italian fashion, ceramics and local souvenirs.
  • Visit Spiaggia Grande: Relax beside the water or enjoy a drink overlooking the beach.
  • See the Church of Santa Maria Assunta: Look out for its distinctive colourful tiled dome.
  • Walk to Fornillo Beach: Follow the coastal pathway to a smaller beach away from the main waterfront.

Our tip: Positano involves plenty of steep walking and steps, so wear comfortable shoes. If you’re arriving by ferry, remember that the walk back up through town can be quite a climb!

Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or staying longer, Positano is a place best discovered on foot, with plenty of interesting corners to explore along the way.

Visit Ravello and the Beautiful Villa Cimbrone

Perched high above the Mediterranean, Ravello offers a completely different perspective of the Amalfi Coast, with historic villas, landscaped gardens and sweeping views across the sea.

I visited Ravello during my first trip, as part of an organised tour from Sorrento, and it quickly became one of my favourite destinations.

The highlight was Villa Cimbrone and its famous Terrace of Infinity. Standing high above the coastline, looking out over the Mediterranean and the towns far below, was simply breathtaking. It’s one of those views that photographs never quite do justice.

Afterwards, I enjoyed lunch and a glass of wine in Piazza Vescovado, Ravello’s main square, before spending time browsing the shops along its narrow streets. It was such a relaxing afternoon, and I could easily have stayed longer.

Things to See and Do in Ravello

  • Villa Cimbrone: Explore its gardens and the spectacular Terrace of Infinity.
  • Villa Rufolo: Discover another historic villa, known for its gardens and coastal panoramas.
  • Piazza Vescovado: Enjoy a leisurely lunch or coffee in the heart of town.
  • Ravello Cathedral: Visit the historic cathedral overlooking the main square.

Our tip: Ravello is inland and high above the coast, so allow time to reach the town and walk to Villa Cimbrone. Comfortable shoes are a good idea.

Ravello was an absolute highlight of my first Amalfi Coast adventure, and somewhere I’d happily return to.

Spend Time on the Beautiful Beaches of the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast’s beaches are as picturesque as its villages, with clear Mediterranean waters, dramatic cliffs and colourful buildings overlooking the shore. Many are small and pebbly, quite different from the long sandy beaches we’re used to in Aotearoa – New Zealand.

During our second visit, Toni and I spent time relaxing by the sea between exploring the coastal towns. It was a welcome break from sightseeing, especially after navigating the busy streets.

Beaches Worth Exploring

  • Spiaggia Grande, Positano: The town’s famous beachfront, with an incredible backdrop of colourful hillside buildings.
  • Fornillo Beach, Positano: A smaller alternative, reached by a coastal walkway from Spiaggia Grande.
  • Marina Grande, Amalfi: Conveniently located near the town centre, ideal for combining a beach stop with sightseeing.
  • Maiori Beach: One of the longest beaches along the coast, with a waterfront promenade and nearby cafés.
  • Minori Beach: A smaller beach with a relaxed village atmosphere and restaurants close by.

A Few Things to Know

  • Beach clubs: Many beaches have paid areas with sun loungers and umbrellas, alongside designated public sections.
  • Pebbly shorelines: Water shoes can make swimming more comfortable.
  • Summer crowds: Arrive early during peak season if you want to secure a good spot.
  • Swimming conditions: Check local conditions, particularly near rocky areas and boat access points.

Our tip: You don’t need to dedicate an entire day to the beach. Even a short stop for a swim or some time beside the water can be a refreshing break between towns.

Drive the Famous Amalfi Coast Road

Driving the Amalfi Coast is spectacular, but it’s certainly not for the faint-hearted! The narrow roads wind around steep cliffs, with sharp bends, oncoming buses and very little room to manoeuvre.

During our second visit, Toni and I tackled the coastal road in our little lease car. We quickly discovered that the local drivers and couriers knew those bends far better than we did! They seemed completely unfazed by the tight corners, while we took our time and let them pass whenever possible.

But the biggest frustration wasn’t necessarily the driving. It was finding somewhere to park. Spaces are limited, particularly in popular towns such as Positano and Amalfi, and parking can be surprisingly expensive.

Things to Consider Before Driving

  • Narrow roads: Expect tight corners, buses, scooters and busy traffic.
  • Limited parking: Spaces can be difficult to find and costly, especially during peak season.
  • Travel times: Short distances can take longer than expected because of congestion.
  • Rental restrictions: Check your rental agreement and insurance conditions before travelling along the coastal road.

Would We Recommend Driving?

Having experienced the Amalfi Coast both by tour bus and independently, I’d recommend an organised tour, especially for first-time visitors.

On my first visit from Sorrento, the driving, parking and navigation were all taken care of. We also had commentary along the way, which made the journey even more interesting.

Although Toni and I appreciated the flexibility of having our own car, a tour allows you to concentrate on the scenery and the towns rather than the traffic.

Our tip: Look for a coastal tour that includes several towns and allows enough free time to explore each stop. That way, you can enjoy the highlights without worrying about where to park.

Discover the Amalfi Coast’s Famous Lemons

Lemons are everywhere along the Amalfi Coast, from terraced hillside groves and roadside stalls to local dishes, desserts and colourful ceramics.

The region is famous for its large, fragrant Sfusato Amalfitano lemons, prized for their aromatic peel and used to make everything from limoncello to traditional Italian desserts.

During our coastal drive, Toni and I stopped at a roadside market to buy some fresh fruit. Among our purchases was an enormous lemon that cost us around NZ$12! Certainly one of the most expensive pieces of fruit we’ve ever bought, but we couldn’t resist.

Ways to Experience Amalfi’s Lemon Traditions

  • Try limoncello: The region’s famous lemon liqueur, traditionally served chilled after a meal.
  • Sample local desserts: Look for lemon sorbet, gelato and delizia al limone, a traditional lemon-filled sponge cake.
  • Visit a lemon grove: Join a guided visit to learn how lemons are grown on the steep coastal terraces.
  • Browse local markets: Discover fresh produce, lemon-based products and locally made souvenirs.

Our tip: If you’re travelling home to Aotearoa – New Zealand, remember that fresh fruit is subject to strict biosecurity rules. Enjoy those giant lemons while you’re in Italy!

Hike the Famous Path of the Gods

For hiking enthusiasts, the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) is one of the Amalfi Coast’s most celebrated walking trails, offering panoramic views across the Mediterranean from high above the shoreline.

The popular route begins in Bomerano, near Agerola, and follows the mountainside towards Nocelle, above Positano. Along the way, walkers pass rocky hillsides, traditional terraces and spectacular viewpoints.

Although Toni and I didn’t complete this hike, it’s certainly worth considering if you enjoy exploring on foot.

What to Know Before Hiking

  • Distance: Approximately 7 km from Bomerano to Nocelle, depending on your chosen route.
  • Difficulty: Moderate, with uneven rocky paths and some exposed sections.
  • Time required: Allow around 3–4 hours, excluding transport.
  • Getting there: Public buses or organised hiking tours can help you reach the trailhead.
  • Best time: Spring and autumn generally offer more comfortable walking temperatures.

Our tip: Wear sturdy footwear, carry plenty of water and check weather and trail conditions before setting out. Some sections have steep drops, so consider a guided hike if you’re unfamiliar with the terrain.

For those who enjoy a little adventure, this trail offers a rewarding alternative to sightseeing in the coastal towns.

Enjoy a Local Food Experience Along the Amalfi Coast

Food is an important part of the Amalfi Coast’s culture, with fresh seafood, handmade pasta and locally grown ingredients featuring throughout the region.

From family-run trattorias to hands-on cooking classes, there are plenty of ways to discover the flavours of southern Italy.

Food Experiences Worth Trying

  • Join a cooking class: Learn to prepare traditional Italian dishes such as handmade pasta, gnocchi or tiramisu, often using fresh local ingredients.
  • Take a food tour: Visit markets, bakeries and small eateries while learning about regional food traditions.
  • Sample fresh seafood: Look for grilled fish, seafood pasta and dishes featuring the day’s catch.
  • Try scialatielli pasta: A regional speciality, often served with seafood.
  • Enjoy a traditional Italian lunch: Find a local trattoria and sample dishes unique to the area.

Although Toni and I didn’t join a cooking class along the Amalfi Coast, it’s an experience I’d recommend considering, particularly if you enjoy learning about a destination through its food.

Our tip: Check the location of cooking classes and food tours before booking. Some take place in hillside villages that require additional transport.

Take a Day Trip to Capri or Pompeii

If you have a little extra time during your Amalfi Coast adventure, there are some incredible places to explore beyond the coastal villages. Two popular options are the beautiful island of Capri and the ancient archaeological site of Pompeii.

Both offer something completely different from the Amalfi Coast, making them worthwhile additions to a longer itinerary.

Discover the Island of Capri & Pompeii

Just off the Sorrentine Peninsula, Capri is famous for its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, picturesque towns and the spectacular Blue Grotto, a sea cave where sunlight illuminates the water in brilliant shades of blue.

Some popular experiences include:

  • Take a boat tour: Admire the famous Faraglioni rock formations and sea caves.
  • Explore Capri town: Browse boutiques, enjoy the piazzas and discover scenic viewpoints.
  • Visit Anacapri: Explore a quieter part of the island and ride the Monte Solaro chairlift for panoramic views.

Ferries and organised excursions depart from Sorrento and, seasonally, selected Amalfi Coast towns.

Step Back in Time at Pompeii

Pompeii offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman life. Buried following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, the archaeological site preserves streets, homes and public buildings that visitors can explore today.

Allow several hours to visit, and consider joining a guided tour to better understand the history behind the ruins.

Our tip: Both destinations deserve a full day, so avoid squeezing them into an already busy coastal itinerary. Check transport connections from your accommodation before booking.

Practical Tips for Enjoying the Amalfi Coast

A little preparation can make exploring the Amalfi Coast much easier, particularly during the busy summer months.

  • Book popular activities ahead: Boat cruises, guided tours and cooking classes can fill up quickly during peak season.
  • Choose your travel dates carefully: Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than summer.
  • Check ferry schedules: Services are seasonal and weather-dependent, so confirm departure times before travelling.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: Expect steep streets, stairways and uneven pathways in many coastal towns.
  • Carry some cash: Cards are widely accepted, but cash can be handy for small purchases.
  • Visit popular towns early: Amalfi and Positano can become particularly crowded as the day progresses.
  • Allow for delays: Traffic congestion and changing weather conditions can affect transport and activities.

Our tip: Check the opening hours of attractions and any entry requirements before visiting, particularly if you’re travelling outside the main tourist season.

Continue exploring the Amalfi Coast. Read our Exploring Amalfi and Exploring Sorrento and Naples guides to discover more of this beautiful region.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do Along the Amalfi Coast

Its a bit blurry but this is a photo of a rock on the Amalfi Coast, Mary holding flowers.

Having visited the Amalfi Coast twice, I can understand why this part of Italy attracts travellers from around the world. There’s something special about the combination of coastal scenery, historic villages and everyday Italian life.

For me, the memories that stand out aren’t necessarily the grand attractions. They’re the views from Villa Cimbrone, lunch and wine in Ravello’s piazza, and sharing an ice cream with Toni on the steps of Amalfi Cathedral.

Both journeys offered something different, and I’m grateful I had the opportunity to experience the region in two ways.

My advice is to choose a few places that genuinely interest you and give yourself time to appreciate them. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, the Amalfi Coast has a way of leaving you with memories that last well beyond the journey.

Whatever way you choose to explore, don’t feel you need to see everything. Take time to wander, enjoy a beautiful meal, admire the views and appreciate those little moments that make travelling so special.

Because sometimes, the memories that stay with you aren’t the grand attractions, but the simple experiences you never planned.

“Some places capture your attention with their beauty, but it’s the little moments along the way that capture your heart.”

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