Category: What to Do

With the wind in your hair and the sun beating down on your skin, the Amalfi Coast is one of those destinations that you dream of. The great thing about it is that because it’s easily accessible, you can spend as little or as long as you want there.

To give yourself plenty of ideas about how you can turn your dream vacation into a holiday you’ll never forget, take a look at a few of the ways your fellow tourists spend their time. The only problem you’ll have will be deciding which activity you want to try first.

Start your holiday with a lazy day so you can unwind

Have you asked yourself how long should I spend on the Amalfi Coast? Do you feel like 5 days there isn’t quite enough? If so then you’re like thousands of tourists who spend 10 days or more there every single year.

The great thing about spending a couple of weeks on the Coast is that you can really start to find your feet. If it’s a chance to see how the locals live, and to leave the hustle and bustle of back home where it belongs, then a long stay could be just what you need. So, how do you start it?

Many people come home from a long holiday and realise that they haven’t made the most of it. One lazy day turns into another, and then becomes a lazy week. Whilst this will be a dream for some of you, there’s always something to be gained from getting out there and seeing a little more of the local area. By all means have a lazy day on the Marina Grande or the family friendly Vietri sul Mare, but have a plan in mind for your second day.

Head to Ravello for a little bit of culture and heritage   

The beautiful area of Ravello is one the most incredible parts of the Amalfi Coast, and it’s known for it’s stunning hilltop gardens. As you stand by the shoreline and gaze up at the Villa Cimbrone gardens you’ll be able to gain a sense of the history that’s been acted out at that very location since the 11th century.

It may be a little bit of a hike, but the views and scenery will certainly be worth the effort. There’s also plenty of authentic freshly cooked food to enjoy in the onsite restaurant, so you can easily make a day of it.

Snorkelling is a great way to see another side of the Coast  

The great thing about the Amalfi Coast is that the scenery and wildlife are unsurpassed. If you head to one of the smaller beaches such as Furore, then you have a great opportunity to try your hand at snorkelling and scuba diving.

Because Furore is formed in its own fjord and only accessible by boat or some steep coastal steps, it’s not all that popular with families. This makes it the ideal location for enjoying some peace and tranquility in quieter waters. Great if you want to try something new and see a side of the Amalfi Coast that’s often hidden from view.

Check the detailed guide on: What to do in the Amalfi Coast

Why not take a day trip and drive the Amalfi Coast?   

Driving the Amalfi Coast is a relaxing way to get out and about without working up too much of a sweat in the beating sun. You can easily drive the 37 miles in a couple of hours, even allowing for some of the narrower and twisty sections of road. This makes it ideal if you want to stop off in places like Salerno or Amalfi Town that you may not have been to yet. You could even pack a picnic and venture down to whichever beach catches your eye.

Spend your last night in the centre of it all

If you’re spending 10 days or more on the Amalfi Coast then it makes a lot of sense to stay in one of the busier places such as Positano or Sorrento. There’ll be a lot of different things going on throughout your stay, and if you interact with plenty of the locals then you’ll quickly feel like it’s your new home away from home. Spend your last night there and you’ll be able to unwind and reflect on what a great time you’ve had. Just the motivation you need to book ahead for next year.

The Amalfi Coast is a little corner of the old Italy that’s tucked away on the coast. Little more than a 1 hour drive from the airport in Napoli, it’s ideally situated if you want to fly in and out for a short vacation. The great thing about a shorter holiday is that you can do it on half the budget of a 2 week stay, and you also get the benefits of having had a break from the stress of work, and all the other things you have to take care of back at home.

Spending 4 days on the Amalfi is something that will stay with you for a lifetime, but adding an extra day will make it even more special. Take a look at the rest of this article and see how you can enjoy every single minute of your holiday.

Head out for a walk before you unpack

Now that you know how long you want to spend on the Amalfi Coast, all you have to do is come up with a plan that ensures you make the best of your time there. It’s often all too tempting to spend your first day on holiday lounging around in the hotel, after all, you’ve come away to get away from all the things you have to back home.

If you’re on the Coast for a short stay, then it might be worth heading straight out the door once you arrive. By walking the local neighbour you’ll be able to get a feel for the place, spend time in the market, and if you’re in one of the larger places such as Positano or Sorrento, you’ll no doubt be tempted by some of the eateries and nightlife.

Drive the coast so that you can see the scenery    

Lots of people on short stays opt to drive the length of the Amalfi Coast in the middle of their stay. It allows you to get out of your room and away from the town you’re staying in, and gives you that satisfied feeling once your head hits the pillow at night.

Because you can drive the entire route in just a couple of hours, you’ll be able to spread out the day by stopping off for a bite to eat or a quick dip in the ocean. You could even pack a picnic by heading to your local market in the morning and picking up some new nibbles to try.

Check the full guide on: Best Things to Do in the Amalfi Coast

Head into the hills of Ravello for a day of culture  

Ravello is home to one of the main tourist attractions on the Amalfi Coast — the Villa Cimbrone. It has occupied the site since as far back as the 11th century, and has played host to many of the powerful merchant and rulers in the local area for almost 1,000 years.

Many people travel there every year to admire the stunning gardens which it is best known for, as well as to try the fine dining in the onsite restaurant. It is a little bit of a hike up to the hilltop if you’re travelling on foot, but if you head off a little earlier in the morning than you otherwise would, you’ll be able to miss the peak sunshine.

Spend a lazy afternoon on the Marina Grande    

You’re always going to want at least one day where you sit back on the beach and let everything else simply wash over you aren’t you? The Marina Grande is the largest beach, and the most popular with tourists and travellers. Because of its central location you can easily pack up your book and towel and stroll to the local eateries. Ideal if you want to try some fresh handmade pasta, or tuck into the catch of the day with a bottle of wine.

Remember that Sorrento has plenty to do, see, and taste

Sorrento is well worth a day trip if you’re not staying there as it’s the busiest area on the Coast. You could explore the local architecture, walk the winding side streets that are packed with family run boutiques, and then sit down for an evening meal of fresh seafood. Just what you need when you want recharge your batteries and enjoy yourself.

The beauty of the Amalfi Coast is that you can see and experience something different in every single one of the towns, villages, and cities that are dotted along the coastline. If you want a relaxed and calm atmosphere then you have Positano, and if you want to be right in the thick of it all there’s always Sorrento ready and waiting to be explored.

When you booked your stay you knew that you wanted something of a whistle stop tour of the area, and that 3 days in Amalfi Coast just wouldn’t be enough to fit in everything you wanted to do. Take a look at a few of the ideas below and see how you can make the most of your 4 days on the Amalfi Coast.

Take a Walk in Ravello on your first day

Now that you’ve decided how long to spend on the Amalfi Coast, all you need to do is get out there and enjoy your time there. One of the most popular spots in Ravello, and it’s home to the stunning Villa Cimbrone gardens. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in centuries of the local culture, then this is as must-visit destination during your holiday.

The Villa’s manor house has stood on the site for nearly 1,000 years, and dates back to the 11th century. In the hundreds of years since it was first used, the site has been home to some of the most influential rulers, and successful merchants, in the Amalfi Coast’s history. Just seeing the history unfolding before your eyes as you walk the gardens and enjoy the stunning views of the coast is an experience that can’t be missed. Be sure to take a camera with you so that you can capture plenty of shots of the flowers to show everyone back home.

There’s also some stunning onsite eating options if you want to give your tastebuds something to smile about. Ideal for making a day of it in one of the Coast’s most sought after destinations.

Read our full guide on: What to Do in the Amalfi Coast

Enjoy some beachside food over on the Marina Grande   

The Marina Grande is the largest and most popular beach on the Amalfi Coast, and with good reason. A cool sea breeze and gentle ocean swell make it ideal for paddling in the sea and lounging about in the sun if that’s what takes your fancy.

It also boasts a central location that will enable you to have your pick of dozens of local eateries that lie just a short walk from the shoreline. Popular choices include freshly handmade pasta, subtly seasoned sauces, and of course the catch of the day. More than enough variety to tempt you in for a taste!

Boat trips around the coast are a great way to rest and relax  

Many tourists on short stays opt to book themselves in for a boat trip around the coast. The great thing about it is it’ll allow you to see the local area from a whole new perspective, and if you book a glass bottom boat then you can also get an up close and personal look at a variety of the local sea creatures.

Booking your tickets ahead is pragmatic as demand can be high, particularly in the peak holiday months of June – September. One thing is for sure, if you already have a ticket in your hand you’ll be glad as you’ll be able to skip the queues and enjoy your time aboard.

Feel the sand between your toes on Vietri sul Mare   

A holiday on the Amalfi Coast wouldn’t be complete without a few hours of bliss and relaxation on the sandiest and most family friendly beach — Vietri sul Mare. The tide laps gently at the shore, and a gentle breeze comes off the Mediterranean to ensure you don’t overheat in the beating afternoon sun. Ideal if you want to finish your short break with a lazy afternoon that allows you to put your feet up.

Then it’s back to your favourite restaurant of the last 4 days for a farewell meal, and off to the airport in the morning.

When you picture yourself getting away from it all for a few short days, there’s perhaps nowhere better to head to than the Amalfi Coast. It’s a little corner of the old Italy that’s been preserved for generations, and it’s the perfect place to rest and relax if you want to be greeted by the locals with open arms.

If you’ve decided that 2 days on the Amalfi Coast isn’t quite enough, and that a long weekend is more your thing, then this article is for you. You want to hit the ground running and fit in as much as you can. But you also want to return home rested and refreshed. It can be a hard balance to strike on such a short trip, but there’s plenty of ideas below that should give you some welcome food for thought.

Taste the Limoncello in Sorrento

No matter how long you want to spend on the Amalfi Coast, you can’t go home without having tasted the region’s local speciality. It’s a drink that’s now exported all over the world, but it has its roots and origins right here in Sorrento. If you want a tipple that hits the back of your mouth and makes your tastebuds dance with delight, then this could well be your first stop on your holiday. Just make sure you don’t spend too long enjoying it otherwise you won’t have time for everything else!

Get up early and see the catch of the day land in Cetara

Being a tourist is great fun, but sometimes it’s nice to get away from the masses and see how the locals live. Their way of life has changed just as much as yours has with the advent of technology, but their traditions remain the same to this day.

At its heart the Amalfi Coast is a region of fishermen and cooks, and it’s the freshness of their catches they that pride themselves on most of all. There’s nothing better than beating the sun as you get out of bed, and heading on over to Cetara. It’s tucked away and often isn’t home to many tourists, and that makes the experience all the more special.

Check the full guide on: Best Things to Do in Amalfi Coast

Explore the Grotta dello Smeraldo Cave by boat

Catching a lift to go into an underwater cave may sound like something out of the movies, but on the Amalfi Coast you can see and do it all. By catching the elevator off the SS163 route, you can get down into the heart of the cave complex in just a few seconds. From there you can buy tickets on a boat ride for a reasonable price, and go and explore this stunning cave network. Make sure you capture the beauty of the unique emerald light that permeates through the rock faces. It’s truly something to savour.

Photograph the colourful buildings in the hills of Positano  

Positano is often a key destination for families, but it’s also great if you want to capture some unique architectural shots. The tradition in the town is for people to adorn the outer walls of their homes with a huge variety of pastel colours, giving the hilltop neighbourhoods a unique charm that’s a joy to behold.

Savour the tranquility of the beach in Minori

If you want to do something a little different, then leave the masses on the Marina Grande, and head on over to the tranquil sandy beach on the shores of Minori. It’s one of the smaller beaches on the Coast, but it has the benefit of a calmness and tranquility that you’ll find hard to match. Ideal if you want to spend a few hours recharging your batteries so you’re not on the move the entire time you’re here.

Take in the view from Praiano

Praiano is another one of the hidden jewels of the Amalfi Coast. It’s clifftop view is at its most striking during sunrise, and makes for the perfect sight to see on your last morning before you head to the airport in the afternoon. Ideal if you want to see something stunning that will have you clambering to book your next trip the minute touchdown back home.

Explore the cathedral in Amalfi Town    

The Piazza del Duomo is in the heart of the Amalfi Town, and makes a great final stop off point on your way to the airport. Take in the architecture and savour the peace and calm that resides inside. The perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of nearby Naples airport.

The Amalfi Coast is one of those destinations that seems too good to be true. The pictures seem so amazing online, and yet when you arrive it still somehow surpasses all of your expectations. Words struggle to do this beautiful part of the world justice, which means the only option is to book your trip, and go and see this little corner of the old Italy for yourself.

If you’ve decided that spending a weekend on the Amalfi Coast isn’t quite for you and that you want to beat the crowds and go midweek, then good for you. Travelling is all about having the freedom and flexibility to go out there into the world and enjoy yourself. All you need to do now is decide what you want to do…

Walk the Centro Storico in Salerno

If you’ve decided a couple of days is the right amount of time to spend on the Amalfi Coast, then what you need is a plan that ensures you make the most of it. The first port of call for many people is Salerno — one the busiest and liveliest areas on the Coast. Walking the narrow winding streets and enjoying the squares is a great way to get a feel for the region, and you’ll be sure to find plenty of local delicacies that you want to treat yourself to.

Relax by the waterfalls in Valle delle Ferriere

If you decide to give the nightlife of Salerno a miss and get away from it all, then the little visited area of Valle delle Ferriere is certainly worth a closer look. You’ll probably have to hike to get there for a little while, so make sure you come prepared if you decide you want to venture off the beaten track.

As well as the beauty of the waterfalls themselves, you’ll also be able to see the towns and cities of the Coast from different angles than you’ll see in the classic tourist shots. Ideal if you want to capture something unique to show your friends and family back home.  

Check our full guide on: What to Do in the Amalfi Coast

Enjoy the nightlife on the island of Capri

Ferries to Capri are commonplace, with most people catching them in Positano. The great thing about Capri is that as well as bustling nightlife, it has its own unique culture that you won’t find anywhere else on the Amalfi Coast.

The locals will ensure you receive a warm and friendly welcome, and then it’s up to you how you want to spend your time there. The beaches, nightlife, and stunning Blue Cave Grotto by boat are all popular choices that you might want to think about.

Travel from the airport to Sorrento by train to take in the sights  

La Circumvesuviana is the name of the service you’re looking for when you land at Naples Airport, and it’s one that you’ll be sure to remember for the rest of your life. As well as criss-crossing the hills that separate the Coast from the rest of Italy, the route will take in the awe-inspiring sight of Mt Vesuvius — something that no one should leave Italy without having seen in the flesh.

Spend the afternoon in Furore

Furore is one of those little hidden gems that you’ll find dotted right along the Amalfi Coast that you wouldn’t know were there if you weren’t looking for them. The beauty of the place is that it’s rarely visited by the swathes of tourists you’ll find on the Marina Grande or in Salerno.

The locals live in tightly packed terraced houses that are literally carved out of the limestone cliffs. If you can’t imagine what that would look like then you’ll want to spend a few hours there during your visit as it’s a sight that will stay with you for a longtime.

See the coast from the ocean by booking a boat trip

Nothing compares to the beauty of seeing the Coast from the ocean as it gives you a fresh perspective on how the locals go about their daily lives. You’ll see how they’ve carved out villages, towns, and cities in some of the most stunning scenery not just in Italy, but in all of Europe.

When you picture yourself resting and relaxing, you instantly think of somewhere just like the Amalfi Coast. You want tranquil seas and centuries of culture sat side by side in perfect harmony, and that’s just what you’ll find in this little corner of the world.

If you’ve decided that a weekend is easier to fit in than 3 full days on the Amalfi Coast then you’re going to want to have a few ideas in your head of what you want to do before you land. That way you’ll be able to make the most of your time away, and get back to work on Monday having had the time of your lives.

Walk the Centro Storico in Salerno

If you’ve decided a couple of days is the right amount of time to spend on the Amalfi Coast, then what you need is a plan that ensures you make the most of it. Walking through the bustling Centro Storico in Salerno is a great way to find your feet by immersing yourself in the culture of the Coast.

Take plenty of spending money with you so that you can treat yourself to some street food, as well as dipping in and out of the many little boutique shops you’ll find populating the winding backstreets.

Book a Limoncello tasting tour

The region is known for this mouthwatering tipple, and with good reason. You’ll no doubt have tried and tasted it in a few bars over the years, but nothing compares to enjoying it in the area that’s best known for it.

Tasting tours are popular in the peak summer months, and especially on weekends. Ideal if you want to give your tastebuds something to smile about whilst you take in the sights and learn the subtle differences between all the different varieties of the Amalfi Coast’s favourite drink!

Check our full guide on: The Best Things to Do in the Amalfi Coast

Explore the Blue Cave Grotto by boat

The island of Capri is easily reached by ferries from Positano, and it’s home to all sorts of unique attractions and entertainment. Being an island, it’s developed its own culture over the centuries and offers something different to the mainland. The beaches and nightlife come highly recommended, but it you really want to enjoy something special then you need to take to the water.

The Blue Cave Grotto is a network of underwater caves that simply cannot be missed. Booking a boat tour is easy, and because tickets are reasonably priced it makes a great option if you’re travelling with a large group.

Travel from the airport to Sorrento by train to enjoy the scenery   

La Circumvesuviana offers you a scenic route from Naples Airport to Sorrento. It makes for a great option if you want to see lots of the local scenery and enjoy something a little more memorable than a taxi ride along the highway.

One of the real attractions of this route is Mt Vesuvius — a sight that will stay with you for a lifetime and make for a great photo to show your friends and family when you return from your travels.

Watch the catch of the day in Cetara

There are so many hidden gems dotted along the Amalfi Coast that it’s impossible to see them all in just one weekend. If you want to see a glimpse into the past and explore the culture of old Italy, then Cetara is as good a place as any to start.

The people here still rely on fishing as one of their main trades, and it’s a village that’s been largely untouched by the huge influx of tourists to the Coast as a whole. If you decide you want to be a little bit adventurous, then sacrificing your lie in and getting up at sunrise to see the catch of the day come in will be well worth it.

Relax on the Marina Grande

Finally, we all need to rest and relax just a little bit don’t we? Even if we’re only away for a weekend. The biggest beach is the Marina Grande, and its close proximity to bars, eateries, and the shops makes it a must-visit destination for sun seekers looking to relax on the soft sand.

If you’re lucky enough to have a day off on a work trip, or a spare day at the end of your holiday, then heading to the Amalfi Coast is something certainly worth considering. With pristine beaches, stunning scenery, and a traditional way of life that’s been preserved for centuries, you’ll have more than enough options to enjoy one of the best days of your life.

If you don’t quite have to time to spend an entire weekend on the Amalfi Coast there’s still plenty to see and do in just one day. The secret to enjoying it is having a plan in mind before you arrive. Here’s a few suggestions that you might want to take a look at.

Get up early and head to Cetara

Cetara is the hidden gem of the Amalfi Coast, and it’s an area that’s not often visited by the masses of tourists you’ll find in Positano and Sorrento. It’s very much a throwback to the days of the old Italy, and it’s still a fishing village at heart.

Beating the sun and heading over to watch the fishermen head out in the morning is a great way to start your day. It also makes for a great chance to capture some photos that you’ll love to show off to your friends and family back home.

Check the detailed guide on: What to Do in The Amalfi Coast

Explore the Centro Storico in Salerno

If you don’t have that long to spend on the Amalfi Coast, then you’re going to need to ensure you make the time to get over to Salerno. It’s one of the biggest cities in the region, and it provides a great introduction to the way the locals shop and enjoy themselves.

Head on over to the Centro Storico and you’ll be right in the heart of the action. Just make sure you take plenty of spending money so that you can enjoy the great assortment of street food, and treat yourself in a few of the boutiques that line each side of the road.

Enjoy a Limoncello tasting tour

If you can spare a couple of hours to enjoy the drink that the region is known for then you should certainly do it. Heading to a bar and trying a few different varieties is great, but there’s no substitute for booking yourself on an organised tasting tour. That way when you get home you’ll be something of a connoisseur!

Explore the Blue Cave Grotto by boat

The island of Capri is a great place to head to if you want to make the most of your day.

The Blue Cave Grotto is a stunning network of underwater caves that are just waiting to be explored. You can catch a ferry over to Capri from the town of Positano, and once you land there will be plenty of locals available to take you on a boat trip. Ideal if you want to do something that you can’t do anywhere but the Amalfi Coast

Relax on the Marina Grande in the evening

Once you get to the evening, there’s nothing better than putting your feet up and relaxing is there? The Vietri sul Mare beach is popular with families as it’s nice and sandy, but if you want plenty of entertainment just a stones throw from the beach then you might also consider the Marina Grande. It’s the biggest and busiest beach in the Amalfi Coast, and it’s a great place to unwind at the end of a day you’ll never forget.

The Amalfi Coast is one of those places that everyone should visit at least once in their lives. It’s a throwback to the days when Italy was made up of quaint fishing villages and towns built around stunning cathedrals. Markets, beaches, and winding side streets are its hallmarks, and each of them is waiting to be explored.

If you want to know how long to spend in the Amalfi Coast when you’re on a budget, then you need to strike a balance between what you want to do, and how much you’re prepared to spend. There’s plenty of ways to do it, and they don’t all involve basing yourself in Naples and only having a day trip to the region, so you can rest assured that you’ll be able to spend a couple of weeks there if you want to.

When to visit?

June – September are the peak months for tourists — largely because they coincide with the school holidays. The problem for budget travellers is that this huge influx of tourists pushes the prices up. That’s something you’ll find in any popular tourist destination, and certainly isn’t unique to the Amalfi Coast. If you want to travel on a budget but still enjoy the sun, then either May or October will probably be the best month to visit. That way you get plenty of sun, and you also have the chance to save on accommodation with off peak pricing.

Read our updated guide on: Best Time to Visit the Amalfi Coast

Where to stay?

Picking the best Amalfi Coast town to stay in is a matter of weighing up what you want to do on the one hand, and your budget on the other. Positano is the most popular area with families, but it can be significantly more expensive than some of the less well known towns along the coast. Praiano is a great option if you want to save a significant amount of money on your accommodation, without sacrificing the quality of the overall experience. Alternatively you could hunt for a bargain out of season price in nearby Ravello.

Budget transport options

Budget airlines regularly fly in and out of Naples Airport as it’s one of Italy’s main transportation hubs. Booking well ahead of time and flying early in the morning or late at night is a great way to save a large amount of money on your airfares. Once you land you either have the choice of a train to Sorrento and a bus to your final destination, or a taxi. It’s worth comparing the cost of the two before you set off on your travels so you can find the best deal.

Once you arrive on the Amalfi Coast, you’re going to want to explore some of the neighbouring towns and villages. The Sita bus service runs between most of towns on the Coast, and will work out significantly cheaper than hiring a car for the duration, or relying on taxis. So, now you know where to stay, how to get there, and how to get around, all you need are a few things to keep you busy…

Read our guide on: How to Get to the Amalfi Coast

Picnics at sunset in Praiano

Sorrento and Salerno are very popular with tourists, but you can end up paying a little bit of a premium when you go there. If you want a great budget option, then a picnic at sunset in Praiano is a great option. The locals will tell you that it offers the best views on the entire Coast, and they’re not wrong about it!

Head to Positano for the day if you’re travelling with kids

Positano is full of activities for the kids, but because of its popularity it can prove expensive. You can save money by basing yourself out of town, and making a day trip of it so the little people still get to run around in the playgrounds and join a few of the kid’s clubs.

Cook at home by visiting the markets

There are markets in just about every town on the Amalfi Coast, each offering fresh produce on a daily basis. Going self-catering and cooking at home on alternative evenings is a great way to try something new whilst saving money.

Relax on a different beach every day  

The Vietri sul Mare, the Marina Grande, Minori, the list of Amalfi Coast beaches goes on and on. Taking a packed lunch, some juice, and a book to the beach is a great way to relax on a budget. Jump on the Sita bus and go and explore a new beach every day of the week.