The heart of the Amalfi Coast
Hundreds of years ago, Amalfi was among the most important ports in southern Italy, but today it has swapped trading vessels for pleasure cruises. Amalfi holidays offer a taste of a glitzy destination that has wowed international visitors for centuries. One of the coast’s biggest and most popular towns, Amalfi enchants with its winding streets and squares, which never lead wanderers too far from the pebbly waterfront.
Impressive yachts are moored in the harbour in high season, creating as much of a spectacle as the historical cathedral and cloister in town. A famous paper museum hides in the nearby Mill Valley, giving an insight into one of Amalfi’s most famous exports. With a mix of exploration and relaxation, this town seduces visitors and delivers on its glamorous promises. But no matter how you choose to spend your holidays to Amalfi, sipping limoncello by the sea should be an essential component.
Your Amalfi questions, answered
There’s a verdant valley behind the town that’s as much a part of the Amalfi experience as the beach. If you’re up for it, spend time hiking its trails.
Consider basing yourself on a boat – there are many cruises around the Amalfi Coast, which offer a quiet retreat as well as access to secluded beaches.
The most popular months for holidays in Amalfi are July and August, as there’s hot dry weather. The town has a vibrant atmosphere at this time, and there are some unique events such as a Potato Festival and Pumpkin Festival in August. May and June can also be good months to visit as you have warm weather, fewer crowds and cheaper breaks. Visit in June to see the St Antonio di Padova Festivity, a religious event that includes a parade and a boat procession. Or plan your trip for September and enjoy the fireworks for Byzantine New Year.
Every four years, in early June, the town takes part in a traditional regatta competition against the other former maritime republics of Venice, Pisa and Genoa.
Amalfi sits on a rugged area of coastline famous for its turquoise seas. There are dozens of beaches along this 50-kilometre stretch. Most beaches close to Amalfi have shingle or smooth stones, although there are a few small sandy beaches along the way. Some of the beaches in Amalfi are surrounded by high cliffs, so access is down steep steps. There are boat trips to the more secluded spots, which saves you the hassle of the climb.
Amalfi is known for its historic buildings, especially its grand cathedral and impressive villas that overlook the sea. There are Roman ruins dating back to the first century. One of the most famous exports from Amalfi is limoncello, a liqueur made from locally grown lemons and sold around the world. Amalfi is also a foodie destination. It's close to the sea so you can dine on the catch of the day with fare like scialatielli ai frutti di mare, a local dish of seasonal seafood and freshly made pasta.
Amalfi is a bustling, Mediterranean town surrounded by rolling green hills and slopes down to the sea. In town, you’ll find historic buildings, boutique shops and a wide range of chic cafes and traditional restaurants. Many have outdoor terraces for you to make the most of the sunshine. Amalfi has a marina where you’ll often see large yachts coming in and, during the summer, there’s a party atmosphere. The town also has lively nightlife, with everything from stylish cocktail bars to all-night clubs.
Amalfi holidays are a popular choice for families. Being at the heart of the Amalfi Coast, you’re close to a wide range of beaches. Many beaches in the area offer calm sea and shallow waters where kids can paddle and swim safely. However, if you’re bringing very small children and will be using a stroller, it’s worth sticking to beaches such as Tonino O' Beach that don’t have lots of steps.
Amalfi town is quite compact. If you only want to explore Amalfi, you can see the main sights in a weekend city break. But it’s worth staying for longer if you can as there are towns along the Amalfi Coast that are just a short drive or bus ride away. Longer stays also let you spend long days on the beaches, and there are plenty to choose from, so stay longer and book a day at a beach club to soak up the sunshine.
Best things to do in Amalfi
Relax in style
The waterfront is where the action is, especially during the summer months. Expect to find Italian families and vacationers vying for space on the beach.
Visit the cathedral
In the centre of town, Amalfi’s duomo houses the relics of Saint Andrew and is one of the few historic buildings that survived the 1343 earthquake.
Buy some paper
The town is known for its quality paper, still used in Italy for wedding invitations and other fancy correspondence. A nearby museum, in an old mill, explores its fascinating history.
Beaches