The Amalfi Coast – they’re three words that inspire images of charming coloured houses, soaring cliffs, beautiful beaches and narrow winding streets. A brilliant Italian destination that lives up to the fantasy, it seems made for romantic escapes. Heading here for a loved-up getaway? We’ve gathered all the need-to-know details to make your Amalfi Coast adventure simply magnifico!
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Must-visit locales
Ideal for the couple that wants to hop their way from village to village, the Amalfi Coast is home to 13 enchanting locales, each with utterly spellbinding scenery and their own unique character. From quaint fishing towns to glamorous enclaves, the coast has a gorgeous locale that’ll suit any couple.
For the Amalfi Coast you see all over Insta and Pinterest, set your sights for beach-chic Positano (arguably the most famous of the villages), whimsical Praiano and, of course, historic Amalfi. Loved by the gliterazzi (including JFK, Greta Garbo, Humphrey Bogart and Truman Capote), Ravello is also worth adding to your itinerary, with enough sun-kissed piazzas and cobblestone streets to complete the Amalfi Coast idyll.
Want to discover the coast’s quieter (but equally incredible) locales? For undeniable old-world charm, visit Maiori and fall in love with its unbroken stretch of sprawling beach. Want spectacular views? Head for the hills of Atrani and look out over the azure coastline from an elegant villa. Consider yourself gourmands? Don’t leave without feasting on super-fresh seafood in Cetara, sipping fine Italian wine in Tramonti and sampling handmade pasta in Minori.
Iconic beaches
There’s no denying that the beach is the place to be while on the Amalfi Coast, thanks to its dazzling waters and summery atmosphere. The perfect example of this and easily the destination’s most iconic stretch of sand, Positano’s Marina Grande will make you feel like celebrities on a whirlwind getaway (Sophia Lauren, perhaps?). Backed by a rainbow of colourful houses that jut out from emerald cliffs, this world-famous spot is truly breathtaking.
Another straight-from-a-screensaver beach, Amalfi’s Spiaggia Grande is where locals and travellers gather to relax under blue-and-white-striped umbrellas and occasionally cool off with a refreshing dip. Other fabulous options include Ravello’s Castiglione cliff-sheltered seaside district, laid-back Atrani beach and pristine Duoglio beach. And be sure to check out the minuscule Furore beach in, well, Furore. Known for its magnificent fjord and turquoise waters, it’s a tiny piece of paradise.
Historic sights
Other than chilling out on the waterfront, discovering the Amalfi Coast’s fascinating historic landmarks is something couples should definitely do while in the region. Dotted with weatherworn buildings and centuries-old streets, this sensational destination has plenty to impress history-buffs and romantics.
Made stunning by a combination of global architectural influences, Amalfi’s Cathedral of St. Andrew demands to be seen. With interesting relics, wonderful gardens and sumptuous Baroque interiors from the 18th century, it’s a grand sight that you’ll never forget.
If it’s pretty-as-a-picture villas you’re seeking, head for Ravello. From the eclectic 13th-century Villa Rufolo to the dreamy 14th century Villa Cimbrone, there are plenty of opulent sights to see here. For a fantastic day out, pick one (or a few) to visit and wander hand-in-hand through their manicured gardens. Our advice? Stop and smell the roses.
Exquisite dining
One of the most enticing reasons to visit Italy is, of course, its food and the Amalfi Coast doesn’t disappoint. Unsurprisingly, fresh seafood is on the menu throughout the coast’s villages, with tiny restaurants specialising in a range of from-the-sea delacacies.
If you try one thing before hopping back on the plane, make it scialatielli ai frutti di mare. A simple pasta dish made with seafood, it’s a must-try. Pesce alls aqua pazza (fish with tomatoes, olive oil, herbs, white wine and bread) and cuppetiello di pesce (the Amalfi Coast’s answer to fish and chips) are also local favourites that’ll have your mouth watering. For desert, try some of the expert-made pastries and chase it down with a shot of belly-warminglimoncello.
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