I’m completely in love with Amalfi – located in Campania in southern Italy, on the world-famous Amalfi Coast. The town is built against steep cliffs, under an ever-blue sky; the Mediterranean Sea sparkles in azure blue. In summer, temperatures rise to 30°C, and with the cooling sea breeze it’s perfect for relaxing for days on the beaches of Amalfi, or strolling through the narrow streets. The climate is Mediterranean with mild winters and hot, dry summers – ideal for an Amalfi holiday, and especially lovely if you enjoy Amalfi sunset while the pastel-colored houses shimmer in golden light.
Whether you love culture, seaside relaxation or active excursions, Amalfi offers something for everyone. Here are some fun and varied activities you definitely shouldn’t miss:
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Visit the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Sant’Andrea)
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Stroll around Piazza del Duomo and enjoy a terrace café
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Relax on the beaches in Amalfi, from sandy beaches to pebble beaches
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Boat trip along the Amalfi Coast beach, with snorkeling & fruit/drinks
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Bike tour with Baja Bikes along the coast
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Cooking experience: make fresh pasta, mozzarella & tiramisu
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Visit limoncello factory including tasting
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Hike the Path of the Gods or relax in Ravello at sunset Amalfi
1. Cathedral & central square: the heartbeat of Amalfi
The phenomenal Amalfi Cathedral – the Duomo di Sant’Andrea, built in the 11th century, is not to be missed. The impressive mix of Romanesque, Byzantine and Baroque styles immediately tells you the story of the maritime republic. The steps to the church, the mosaic facade and the crypt with the relics – a must. From the Piazza del Duomo you look out over the fountain of St. Andrew and can enjoy an espresso on a sun-drenched terrace.
Tip: I went to Piazza del Duomo, where I had my coffee at Pasticceria Andrea Pansa. This historic establishment has been there since 1830 and is located right opposite the cathedral. You sit there beautifully in the sun with a view of the impressive steps and facade of the Duomo. Order an espresso or a glass of limoncello and definitely try a local pastry, such as sfogliatella or lemon tart – a perfect break between sightseeing.
2. Beach fun: sandy beaches Amalfi to pebble beaches
The Amalfi coastline offers both sandy beaches Amalfi and pebble beaches Amalfi. My favorite is Lido delle Sirene, just outside the busy harbor – a bit more peaceful, with sunbeds, parasols, showers and a restaurant. For ultimate relaxation I take a water taxi along the cliffs, often stopping in hidden coves – that’s a real Amalfi Coast beach experience.
Here are three more great beach tips around Amalfi:
- Marina Grande – This is Amalfi’s main beach and perfect if you want to be in the middle of the action. You’ll find plenty of sunbeds, beach clubs and cozy restaurants within walking distance of the center.
- Santa Croce – Only accessible by boat from Amalfi harbor (or via a walking path with many stairs), but absolutely worth it. The water is crystal clear and there are two atmospheric beach bars where you can have lunch overlooking the sea.
- Duoglio Beach – A beautiful pebble beach with azure blue water, ideal for snorkeling. You reach it via a staircase with about 400 steps or by boat. Quieter than Marina Grande, with sunbeds and a relaxed restaurant on the beach.
For a very special sunset, choose the beach of Praiano, just a bit further west – much quieter.
3. Boat & snorkeling tour along the coast
A tip I give everyone: do the boat and snorkeling tour with fruit and drinks – absolutely fantastic! You sail past dramatic cliffs, see hidden caves, and can swim and snorkel in crystal-clear water. Perfect for lovers of sea, sun and adventure. You can buy tickets via this link.
4. Baja Bikes bike tour
I did the Baja Bikes bike tour in Amalfi along the coast myself and thought it was brilliant. You cycle through picturesque villages, enjoy views of Positano and the rocky coastline, with a local guide who gives tips along the way about hidden spots and local secrets. Highly recommended if you love active exploration! Big tip to do this right at the start of your holiday, because the guide also gave me tons of recommendations; things to discover, great restaurants, his favorite ice cream shop (Gelateria Porto Salvo)…
- The artisan gelateria Porto Salvo is located near the harbor and is known for its creamy textures and authentic flavors, made with fresh local ingredients. Definitely try the lemon sorbet (made with Amalfi lemons) or the pistachio – both absolute winners. It’s the perfect stop during a walk through town or after a day at the beach.
5. Cooking workshop: making pasta, mozzarella & tiramisu
Want to truly immerse yourself in the Italian atmosphere? Book the fresh pasta, mozzarella and tiramisu making workshop on the Amalfi coast. In an atmospheric setting, you’ll learn from a local chef how to prepare traditional dishes completely from scratch – from kneading pasta dough to stretching fresh mozzarella and perfectly layering a creamy tiramisu. Everything is done with fresh, local ingredients and of course you get to extensively taste your own creations afterwards. This is not only educational and fun, but also my personal highlight when it comes to culinary experiences on the Amalfi coast.
6. Limoncello factory tour & tasting
An absolute must during your visit to Amalfi is the limoncello factory tour, complete with an extensive tasting. You often start among the fragrant lemon groves where the famous Amalfi lemons grow – larger, more aromatic and more intensely flavored than you’re used to. Then you get a behind-the-scenes look at the traditional distilling process, where the peels are transformed into this iconic liqueur.
During the tasting you’ll discover different varieties of limoncello, from classic to cream or even with a twist of herbs or spices. Everything is explained with passion by local makers. You literally taste the “liquid sunshine” of the Amalfi coast. Tip: definitely take a bottle (or two) home – perfect as a souvenir or to continue enjoying your trip. Book the limoncello factory tour here.
7. Sentiero degli Dei & sunset in Ravello
For the most beautiful views, hike the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei). The panoramas are breathtaking. End your day in Ravello, where you sit at the Terrace of Infinity at sunset – fully enjoying the Amalfi sunset.
8. Extra nearby: Positano & Furore
A day trip to Positano is an absolute must during your stay on the Amalfi coast. This picturesque village, built against the steep cliffs, is known for its colorful houses, charming boutiques and atmospheric streets full of stairs – the so-called suspension streets that give Positano its unique character. As you walk up through the maze of alleyways, you constantly enjoy new views over the azure blue sea. Positano’s beaches, such as Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo, are perfect for relaxing or admiring the view of the iconic pastel-colored facades from a beach lounger.
Don’t forget to make a detour along the way to the small, hidden beach of Furore, also known as the “fjord of Furore”. This unique beach is tucked between two steep rock walls and is only accessible via an impressive staircase that takes you down. It’s a pebble beach, but the crystal-clear water, peaceful atmosphere and dramatic surroundings make it one of the most photogenic spots on the coast. Ideal for escaping the crowds of the larger resorts and enjoying an almost magical tranquility in a natural gorge full of character.
Want to prepare even better for your visit to Amalfi? Then definitely check out these two handy articles full of extra tips and inspiration: in this article with practical tips for Amalfi you’ll read everything about transport, food, budget and accommodation, while this article about the Baja Bikes Amalfi bike tour tells you exactly what to expect from a guided ride along one of Europe’s most beautiful coastlines. Ideal if you want to enjoy the area both actively and relaxed!
Frequently asked questions about Amalfi
Where are the most beautiful beaches in Amalfi?
Lido delle Sirene is my favorite choice: a mix of sand and pebbles with good facilities. Furore is charming, but has only a pebble beach.
What about hotels in Amalfi and campsites in Amalfi?
Amalfi has cozy boutique hotels in the center, often with sea views. For an authentic experience, stay just outside the center or choose a campsite on top of the cliff – views guaranteed!
What does admission to the cathedral and museum cost?
Admission to the cathedral is usually free, but for the Diocesan Museum and the cloister you’ll pay around €3.
What is there to do in Positano?
Stroll along the spiaggia grande, discover Fornillo Beach (quieter), and go for a beautiful sunset Positano boat trip or beach club experience.
When is the best time to go for sunset in Amalfi?
Plan an evening in Ravello or Praiano – I recommend going in the shoulder season (May or September), when it’s quieter and clear views are guaranteed.