Located on the Amalfi Coast, Amalfi is one of the jewels of the Sorrento Peninsula. Wedged between the Tyrrhenian Sea and magnificent cliffs, it reveals breathtaking scenery. Every step takes you from the charm of Italian villages to the authenticity of a small Italian town proud of its traditions. Museums, historic buildings, hiking: discover the 11 must-sees in Amalfi. The town can easily be visited in a weekend, but don't hesitate to spend at least a week or two away. You'll be able to admire all the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, including Positano, one of Italy's most beautiful villages. Switch on Dolce Vita mode, and off you go!
1. Stroll along the Pizza Duomo, Italian splendor
Following one of Amalfi's main streets, via Lorenzo, you reach the superb Piazza Duomo, the vibrant heart of the town. There are plenty of bars here, but you'll be most impressed by the splendor of St. Andrew's Cathedral, whose doors we'll push open in a moment. Your discovery of the city can therefore begin on the terrace of a café, enjoying a cool drink in fine weather. On one side you can admire the cathedral, on the other the marble fountain-statue dedicated to Amalfi's patron saint: Saint Andrew. Once you've circumnavigated the square, extend your discovery of the town center by wandering through its narrow streets. Let your wanderings take you from charming boutiques to secluded alleyways. Charm is everywhere!
2. Visit St. Andrew's Cathedral in Piazza Duomo
If Amalfi is one of the most beautiful places to visit on the Amalfi Coast, it's partly for the splendor of its Cathedral of St. Andrew(Duomo di Sant'Andrea in Italian). Its checkerboard façade is a marvel for the discerning eye, but that's nothing compared to what awaits you inside. From the Egyptian columns to the gold ornamentation and mother-of-pearl cross, you can't help but marvel! Dominating the city from the top of its 57 steps, it also features a beautiful, vivid mosaic depicting Christ surrounded by the evangelists. The Baroque crypt houses the relics of Saint Andrew, brought to Amalfi in 1208.
Founded in the 9th century by Duke Mansone Iᵉʳ, Saint Andrew's Cathedral combines Romanesque, Baroque, Rococo and Arab-Byzantine styles. Enough to amaze and dazzle at the same time!
3. Marvel at the Paradiso cloister next to the cathedral
With its astonishing oriental style, the Cloister of Paradise is a little marvel adjoining the Duomo of Saint-André. Its white columns contrast with the lush, palm-fringed garden. Once used to house the bodies of the city's nobles, today you can stroll beneath its arcades, admiring frescoes, sarcophagi and other relics of Saint Andrew. Both a place of contemplation and meditation, it's a must-see in Amalfi, after the Cathedral.
4. What to do in Amalfi Discover the authentic heart of the town
Come on, it's time to get away from the Piazza Duomo! With its colorful cliffside houses and narrow, winding streets, Amalfi still has many treasures to reveal.
Your stroll takes you to Via Ruga Nova Mercatorum, lined with cafés and boutiques. Here and there, lemon trees punctuate your stroll. Yes, lemons are king on the Amalfi Coast! You'll find them in limoncello as well as in tasty local recipes. Your stroll continues to the Vagliendola district, with its lovely old houses. Finally, end your stroll along the harbour, once a major maritime center, which remains active with its cab boats and the many excursions on offer to visitors.
A little history : legend has it that Hercules created Amalfi to honor the nymph of his heart. Lovers beware!
Discover the essence of Amalfi on this guided walking tour of an orchard. Enjoy a selection of farm-fresh produce and explore a museum dedicated to rural culture.
5. Hike to Torre dello Ziro
Amalfi was once dominated by a fortress. With the aim of spotting pirate ships, it was equipped with a watchtower: the Torre dello Ziro. Overlooking the Gulf of Salerno, it offers a panoramic view of Amalfi's cliffside houses and the sea below. But how do you get up to this legendary tower? You'll have to hike, ladies and gentlemen! From Amalfi, it's a four-hour hike on a fairly steep slope. An easier hike is possible from the town of Pontone, near Amalfi. For the courageous, there's the Pontone / Torre dello Ziro / Amalfi / Valle delle Ferriere itinerary. Get your hiking boots on!
A little history... :legend has it that the Duchess of Amalfi still haunts the area... Dare you? Book this private walking tour over the villages of the Amalfi Coast.
6. Discover the Amalfi Coast by boat
From the port of Amalfi, you can book a wide range of excursions at sea. Your boat trip will take you around Amalfi, discovering some of the most beautiful Mediterranean scenery there is. From here, you'll be able to admire the amazingly colorful houses clinging to their cliffs, as well as the beauty of the surrounding area. Some excursions take place in the evening, at sunset. With drinks and sweets in hand, you can discover the beauty of Positano in the romantic light of the end of the day. Absolutely magical!
If you can, we advise you toplan your trip in April, before the summer rush. The sun will be out, but without the sweltering heat of July and August. No vacation for you at Easter? Then take advantage of the upcoming bridging holidays to travel during the month of May, punctuated by long, relaxing weekends!
Book my boat trip to the Amalfi Coast
7. See a show at Amalfi Musical
Audiences are unanimous: the show at the Amalfi Musical, located in the town's former armory, is not to be missed! The sound and light show is a pure marvel, accentuated by the striking effect of this historic venue. The actors and singers are top-notch from start to finish. In the opinion of many, this is a top-notch performance, with truly committed actors. The historical background is fascinating, the songs non-invasive and the atmosphere incredibly entertaining. Don't speak Italian? Good news: some TV stations offer French subtitles!
8. Relax on Siren Beach, surrounded by legends
Beware, a romantic moment is approaching! Are you looking for the perfect place to gaze into each other's eyes during a romantic weekend in Italy? Head for Siren Beach, located just ten minutes' walk from the town center. Wedged between steep cliffs and bordered by crystal-clear water, the Lido delle Sirene (as it's called in Italian) offers an enchanting setting to lay back your towel and enjoy the pleasures of the sea. The setting is a complete change of scenery, offering a pleasant interlude between relaxation and contemplation.
A little background information... : this essential Amalfi beach is surrounded by legends and myths. Here, mermaids once bewitched sailors setting sail. It's sure to spark your children's imaginations!
9. Discover the Paper Museum, an unusual visit to Amalfi
Did you know? Amalfi was once the paper-making capital of Europe.
Today, the ancient 12th-century workshops house the Museo della Carta in a 100% authentic setting, true to the history of paper. Follow your guide, who speaks excellent French, to discover the age-old process of papermaking. It's a fascinating visit, with the chance to admire some period machinery along the way. A faithful recreation of an old paper mill, as it was in days gone by, allows you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere. The Musée du Papier offers visitors a wonderful visit, combining culture and tradition : we love it!
10. Ravello excursion, exceptional villas
The Amalfi / Ravello bus journey takes just twenty minutes. Perched on Mount Torello, the town of Ravello is one of the must-sees around Amalfi during your stay on the Amalfi Coast. Its enchanting setting has inspired many an artist to fall under the spell of this elegant Italian town. Among the magnificent sights not to be missed is Villa Rufolo, located beneath the Torre Maggiore. With its colorful gardens and pine trees overlooking the blue sea, the setting is pure enchantment. Your visits continue to the magnificent Villa Cimbrone, then on to Ravello Cathedral. As you stroll through the town's charming alleyways, you'll discover some lovely artisanal stores. Here, ceramics take center stage!
11. Visit the Republic Arsenal Museum, a historical treasure of the Amalfi Coast
Here's one of Amalfi's oldest and most historic places! Located just off Amalfi's main beach, the Arsenal preserves the memory of the Republic of Amalfi's maritime supremacy. This historic building, with its sinuous vaults, houses a museum dedicated to Amalfi's former maritime power. It shares territory with the Museum of the Compass, an object invented by the Amalfitan Flavio Gioia. The Tarì, Amalfi's medieval currency, is also honored in this exceptional place. Take advantage of your visit to admire the colorful costumes of the historic regatta of the Former Maritime Republics, inaugurated in 1955. We've warned you: you're visiting an ultra-complete venue covering almost every aspect of the Amalfi Coast's history! This historic venue is also home to the famous Amalfi Musical Show, retracing local history in song.
Where to eat in Amalfi
If France is famous for its gastronomy, Italy has nothing to envy. A wide range of pasta, fish, shellfish and risotto specialities (not forgetting genuine Italian pizzas!) are on offer in the excellent local restaurants.
- One of Amalfi's finest restaurants
Amalfitans and visitors alike appreciate the tasty, home-style cuisine served at Da Maria. The restaurant'sexcellent value for money, combined with its authentic cuisine, makes it a popular address right in the heart of town. Among the local delicacies to be savored, we recommend you try the delizia al limone, a typical local dessert!
- Amalfi's best pizzeria
Fancy a real Italian pizza? Visit Pizzeria Donna Stella, tucked away in the streets of Amalfi. Prepared with local produce, the pizzas are as generous as they are tasty. All served in an idyllic setting, surrounded by lemon trees, and with a smile!
- A taste of Italy
Moving away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, we find La Caravella on the road to Positano. Since 1959, Amalfi has been renowned for the quality of its gourmet cuisine. Be sure to try the black ravioli with shellfish and ricotta, the chef's specialty!
Not sure where to start your culinary journey? Discover the 20 must-taste Italian specialties to try during your stay. Every day has its own culinary discovery!
We also recommend booking this cooking course in Amalfi : you'll visit a local farm in Pianillo and take part in a cooking class. You'll make your own mozzarella, fresh pasta and tiramisu, and enjoy your creations with local wine.
The Amalfi Coast is one of the 27 must-sees in Italy, but don't stop there! The country abounds in cultural and natural treasures that are a must-see once in a lifetime. Continue your discovery of the country with Italy's 10 most beautiful cities, including Naples. And just as well, it's not far from Amalfi! Are you tempted? Here are the top 18 things to do in Naples during your road trip. Finally, it's only 33 kilometers by sea from Amalfi to Capri. Here's a great opportunity to make the most of our 13 must-do things to do in Capri, and extend your stay wonderfully.
Book ahead below for the hottest things to do when visiting Amalfi:
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