Amalfi

Amalfi is a historic town located on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy, renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery, colorful architecture, and rich history. Situated in the Campania region, this small town lies within a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its natural and cultural significance.

1. Stunning Coastline

The Amalfi Coast is famed for its dramatic cliffs, Mediterranean Sea views, and colorful, cascading buildings.

Amalfi itself sits at the mouth of a deep ravine, with winding, narrow streets leading up to picturesque vistas.

2. History and Architecture

Amalfi was once a powerful maritime republic from the 9th to 11th centuries, a thriving trade center connecting the Mediterranean and the Byzantine Empire.

Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi): This Romanesque-style cathedral, dedicated to Saint Andrew, is the town's main landmark. It has a striking, richly decorated facade and sits atop a grand staircase in the Piazza del Duomo.

Ancient Maritime Republic: Amalfi, along with Venice, Genoa, and Pisa, was one of Italy’s four powerful maritime republics.

3. The "Path of the Gods" (Sentiero degli Dei)

This famous trail along the cliffs offers spectacular views of the coastline. It's popular for hiking and provides a unique way to experience Amalfi’s natural beauty.

4. Limoncello and Local Cuisine

Amalfi is famous for its lemons, specifically the large, fragrant Sfusato Amalfitano variety. Limoncello, a lemon liqueur, is a popular local product.

The cuisine often features fresh seafood, local produce, and dishes like scialatielli (a thick Amalfi pasta) with seafood.

5. Grotta dello Smeraldo

Known as the Emerald Grotto, this sea cave near Amalfi glows in a vivid greenish-blue light due to underwater refracted sunlight, creating an otherworldly ambiance.

6. Perfect Location for Exploring

Amalfi is well-situated to explore nearby towns along the coast, like Positano, Ravello, and Praiano, each with unique attractions and charm.

The Amalfi Coast remains one of Italy's most sought-after destinations for its scenic beauty, warm climate, and the blend of natural and cultural heritage that defines the Mediterranean.

Here are ten amazing things to do in Amalfi that capture its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and local charm:

1. Visit the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi)

Explore the stunning Duomo di Amalfi, dedicated to Saint Andrew. Admire its Arab-Norman architecture, mosaic facade, and the grand staircase leading up to the cathedral.

2. Walk the "Path of the Gods" (Sentiero degli Dei)

This hiking trail offers spectacular views over the Amalfi Coast, winding through rocky terrain and lush greenery. It’s a favorite for those seeking an active way to appreciate Amalfi’s dramatic scenery.

3. Explore the Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo)

A boat trip to this unique sea cave is a must. The grotto’s water glows an otherworldly greenish-blue due to sunlight refracting through an underwater opening.

4. Stroll through Piazza del Duomo

The main square of Amalfi is a bustling spot with cafes, shops, and street performers. It's the perfect place to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy an espresso with a view of the cathedral.

5. Take a Boat Tour along the Amalfi Coast

Enjoy the beauty of the coastline from the sea. Many boat tours offer stops for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing while taking in Amalfi’s iconic cliffs and colorful houses.

6. Visit the Paper Museum (Museo della Carta)

Amalfi has a rich history of papermaking, dating back to the 13th century. At this museum, you can learn about traditional papermaking techniques and see historic equipment.

7. Taste Limoncello

Made from the region’s unique Sfusato Amalfitano lemons, limoncello is a must-try. Visit a local producer to learn about its production and taste this refreshing lemon liqueur.

8. Relax on Amalfi Beach (Spiaggia Grande)

A pebble beach with sun loungers, cafes, and crystal-clear water, this is a lovely spot for a relaxing afternoon and a swim with views of the surrounding cliffs.

9. Explore the Valle delle Ferriere

This lush, green valley offers a nature reserve with waterfalls, old ruins, and rare plants. It’s a serene place to hike and escape the tourist crowds.

10. Visit Nearby Ravello and Positano

Amalfi is close to other beautiful towns on the coast. Ravello is famous for its music festival, gardens (Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone), and panoramic views, while Positano is known for its pastel-colored houses cascading down to the sea.

Each of these activities showcases a unique facet of Amalfi and the surrounding coastline, making it a memorable and varied destination.

Amalfi’s cuisine is a delicious blend of coastal and Mediterranean flavors, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, local lemons, and handmade pasta. Here are some must-try dishes and foods:

1. Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare

This Amalfi Coast specialty is a thick, ribbon-like pasta served with a seafood medley, usually including clams, mussels, and shrimp in a light garlic, olive oil, and tomato sauce.

2. Risotto al Limone

Amalfi’s lemons are famous, and they add a unique twist to risotto. This dish balances the creamy texture of risotto with a bright, refreshing lemon flavor.

3. Frittura di Pesce

Often served in a paper cone, this is a mix of fried seafood such as calamari, shrimp, and small fish, fresh from the sea. Perfectly crispy and ideal as a snack while strolling the coast.

4. Sfogliatella

A crispy, shell-shaped pastry filled with sweet ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and candied fruit. It’s an excellent breakfast treat or dessert, especially when paired with a strong Italian coffee.

5. Pizza Marinara

Unlike other pizzas, the Marinara is topped with tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and olive oil—no cheese. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for experiencing local tomatoes and fresh ingredients.

6. Parmigiana di Melanzane

A classic Italian eggplant parmigiana, made with layers of fried eggplant, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and a rich tomato sauce, then baked to perfection.

7. Limoncello

Amalfi’s most famous drink! Made from the large, aromatic Sfusato Amalfitano lemons, limoncello is a sweet lemon liqueur typically served chilled as a digestive.

8. Delizie al Limone

This dessert, a lemon sponge cake filled with lemon cream and covered in a zesty lemon glaze, is light, creamy, and very refreshing.

9. Torta Caprese

A rich, flourless chocolate and almond cake, often flavored with a touch of citrus zest. It’s moist, dense, and a perfect dessert for chocolate lovers.

10. Mozzarella di Bufala

While not exclusive to Amalfi, the mozzarella here is exceptionally fresh, often served with tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil in a classic Caprese salad.

 

Amalfi offers a variety of stunning accommodations, from luxury hotels with breathtaking views to charming boutique stays and cozy B&Bs. Here are some of the best options in different categories:

1. Luxury Hotels

Santa Caterina Hotel: Set on a cliff with private access to the sea, this five-star hotel offers elegant rooms, terraces with sweeping views, a spa, and an infinity pool. It’s known for exceptional service and classic Italian charm.

NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi: Housed in a former 13th-century monastery, this luxury hotel boasts beautiful cloisters, a panoramic pool, and rooms with modern amenities and historic charm.

Hotel Luna Convento: Another historic gem, this former convent turned hotel is renowned for its unique architecture, ocean-view rooms, and beautiful cloisters. It offers a perfect mix of history, comfort, and scenic views.

2. Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Marina Riviera: This boutique hotel sits right on the waterfront, with stylish rooms and suites, balconies, and a rooftop terrace with a pool. It’s a popular choice for its views and convenient location close to the town center.

Hotel La Bussola: Overlooking the harbor, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace, and easy access to the main attractions in Amalfi. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a central location.

Hotel Floridiana: Situated in the heart of Amalfi, this small family-run hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities. The breakfast is highly rated, and the location is convenient for exploring the town.

3. Boutique Stays and B&Bs

Residenza Luce: Located near the main square, this charming B&B offers beautifully decorated rooms with balconies, exceptional hospitality, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Villa Lara: This cozy villa offers panoramic views of Amalfi from its hillside location. It’s surrounded by lemon groves and offers a more secluded feel while still being close to town.

DieciSedici: A stylish, contemporary B&B, DieciSedici offers modern rooms in a historic building. It’s located just a short walk from the main square, making it convenient for sightseeing.

4. Apartments and Villas

Villa Alba d’Oro – Historic Luxury Villa: This elegant villa offers stunning coastal views, a private pool, and beautiful terraces. Ideal for families or groups looking for a more private, luxurious experience.

La Scogliera Rooms: A self-catering option with sea-view balconies, these apartments offer privacy and convenience, with kitchens for those who prefer to cook their meals while enjoying the view.

5. Budget-Friendly Options

A Scalinatella: A quaint B&B near the center, this option offers good value with clean rooms, friendly service, and proximity to local attractions.

Amalfi Luxury House: Offering modern rooms and a rooftop terrace with a view, this affordable guesthouse provides excellent value without compromising on location or style.

La Valle Delle Ferriere: Located slightly up the hills, this budget-friendly guesthouse has rooms with scenic views and is ideal for those who enjoy a quieter setting with hiking opportunities nearby.

These accommodations cater to different tastes and budgets, but each offers a unique way to experience Amalfi’s charm and beauty.