What better way to experience la dolce vita Italian-style than to cruise the boot's charming roads in a convertible with your other half? Families or groups won't have their hair blowing in the wind, but they'll enjoy their trip even more with the freedom of a rental car. And why not consider a long-term car rental, so you can leave with a vehicle without the inconvenience of owning one? You'll have real freedom to explore the country and reach one of the hottest spots: the Amalfi Coast and its coastal road, one of the most famous in the world. In Naples, after tasting one of its mythical pizzas, you'll quickly get back on the road to escape the wild and chaotic traffic and rediscover the peace of a landscape suspended between sea and sky. While traffic will unfortunately remain very heavy during the high season (it's best to get there outside July and August), the breathtaking views will ensure you have a great time, even in traffic jams. Since 1997, the Amalfi Coast has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the beauty of its typically Mediterranean landscapes, where, despite the rugged topography, man has managed to respect nature's exuberance and preserve its original splendor almost intact. So get driving!
Sorrento and Capri, charming starting points
The road trip begins with a stop at Pompeii, the most famous archaeological site on the Old Continent. Located on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii was buried under an enormous layer of ash during the terrible eruption of 79, and remained so for almost seventeen centuries. The first archaeological excavations began in 1748. Thanks to its preservation, the site remains one of the most striking testimonies to the ancient world. A kind of pilgrimage to the sources of our civilization! After getting back on the road, we reach Sorrento, a small town situated on a natural terrace dropping steeply into the sea. Sorrento enjoys an exceptionally mild climate which, combined with the incomparable natural beauty of the small coves and delicious bays that abound along the coast, has made it a renowned resort since Roman times. In short, a dream spot for a dip in the sea, but also for leaving your car before taking the ferry to the mythical Capri, which lies just opposite.Of the three islands anchored in the Gulf of Naples, this is the most famous. Once you've disembarked, you'll quickly feel the magic of the place. Vertiginous peaks, turquoise waters, superb coves, elegant villas with terraced gardens, caves and a unique panorama almost taunt the visitor. Once back on the road, you'll be filled with images, heading for Positano.
Positano, miracle at the end of the asphalt
At the end of this ribbon of asphalt, as winding as it is narrow, Positano emerges, with its immaculate white houses suspended from the wall. In this charming village, perched between sea and mountains, forget the superlatives and let yourself be carried away by the beauty of the place. This is one of Italy's most spectacular sites. Positano resembles an architectural miracle that can be admired from the beach.
Our road trip then takes us along one of Europe's most beautiful roads, between Positano and Amalfi, with its plunging views over a sublime sea and the scent of citrus fruits. Beware, however, of the many twists and turns before arriving in the narrow streets of Amalfi. Its cathedral (Duomo), dating from the late 10th century, remains the most important monument on the Amalfi coast and is the town's crowning glory. Dedicated to Saint Andrea, it boasts a majestic staircase, a porch adorned with a bronze door from Constantinople and a facade of polychrome mosaics. We then arrive in Ravello, the epitome of grand style and southern beauty. Heir to an exceptional tradition of craftsmanship, the town unfurls its elegant churches, remarkable palaces and magnificent gardens (Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone) with as much gusto and ease as a mischievous child. Perched on the slopes of the Dragone valley, less exposed to the flow of tourists, Ravello unfolds its magic without forcing itself, just inviting the traveler to take a little height and soar over the Gulf of Salerno. Then it's back to the car, heading for Cetara, to sample the anchovy and fried fish specialities on offer in the harbour, before arriving in Vietri Sul Mare for a spot of shopping in the many ceramics boutiques.
After packing all this delicately in the boot of our vehicle, we set off again for the last leg of this dream road trip to Salerno. We stroll through the medieval quarter, visit the Duomo and linger over the Arechi castle that dominates the town. Finally, a stroll along the Lungomare among the palm trees is a must, before discovering Salerno's nightlife and its many bars. Once rested, you can head back inland to Naples and return your vehicle. With just one desire: to get back on the road as soon as possible to discover a new Italian region.
Useful info
When to visit The Amalfi Coast is open to tourists all year round. The low season runs from November to March. In August, tourist numbers are at their highest. Hotels, beaches and restaurants fill up quickly. The most pleasant seasons are spring and autumn, although the region is occasionally subject to heavy but short-lived rain.
Getting there. On a road trip, you can rent a car or use your own. But if you don't think about it so much, long-term rental can combine the advantages of both options.
L'ESSENTIEL DE MACIF - More information on the website
Useful. To help you prepare for your trip.
OFFICE DE TOURISME DE LA CÔTE AMALFITAINE - More information on the website
