The gorgeous town of Amalfi, Italy is one of my favorite destinations along the Amalfi Coast. It’s full of history; interesting architecture; and unobstructed views of the Amalfi Coast.
In this post I cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to the town of Amalfi, including how to get there; things to do; where to eat and stay; and more!
Table of Contents
Where is Amalfi Located?
Amalfi is situated on the Amalfi Coast, which is located in the Campania region of southern Italy. Specifically, it’s positioned along the Tyrrhenian Sea, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) southeast of Naples. The Amalfi Coast is known for its rugged, cliff-lined coastline and is accessible by road, with the famous Amalfi Drive offering stunning views but also challenging twists and turns more suited to local drivers.
How to Get There
Most travelers to Amalfi will fly into the closest major airport, if traveling from out of the country. The closest major airports are Rome Fiumicino and Naples International Airport. If you fly into Rome as I did, getting to Naples is easy – just take a high speed train. The travel time is a quick one hour and 10 minutes.
From Naples, you have three options: hire a private driver, rent a car, or take a ferry. Unless you’re incredibly familiar with driving along the Amalfi Coast, I recommend hiring a driver or taking the ferry. By car, the trip takes 90 minutes to roughly two hours depending on traffic. By ferry, it’s a one hour and 45 minute sail from Naples. Either option is sure to provide beautiful views along the way.
What is Town of Amalfi Known For?
Amalfi is one of the most interesting destinations along the Amalfi Coast. It has an international feel, thanks to Amalfi’s long history as a trading power. This background influenced its history, art, architecture and culture. Here are a few things the town of Amalfi, Italy is known for:
- Coastal Views: Amalfi is nestled on the picturesque Amalfi Coast, known for its steep cliffs, clear waters and coastal villages. The town itself is perched on the steep slopes of the Lattari Mountains, offering great views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Historical Significance: Amalfi has a deep historical legacy as a maritime republic during the Middle Ages. It was one of Italy’s four powerful maritime city-states, along with Venice, Genoa, and Pisa. The town’s history is reflected in its architecture, including the stunning Amalfi Cathedral.
- Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi): Speaking of the cathedral… You can’t miss it because it’s right in the center of town. Its design is a testament to Amalfi’s historical importance as it draws on Arab and Norman influences.
- Lemon Groves and Limoncello: The region is famous for its lemon groves and the production of Limoncello, a lemon liqueur.
- Artisanal Craftsmanship: Amalfi is known for its artisanal production of paper, including stationery. The town is home to paper mills where you can see the traditional paper-making process, and boutique shops selling small-batch and handmade paper products.
Does the Town of Amalfi Have a Beach?
Yes, the town of Amalfi in Italy does have a beach. The main beach in Amalfi is called “Spiaggia di Amalfi” or “Amalfi Beach.” It’s a pebble beach that stretches along the waterfront of the town. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the Tyrrhenian Sea, and enjoy the Mediterranean sun. There are also several beachfront cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood and great views.
Keep in mind that Amalfi Beach can get crowded during the peak tourist season, so it’s a good idea to arrive early if you want to secure a good spot.
Things to Do in the Town of Amalfi
Here are a few of my favorite things to do in this interesting seaside town:
Learn about the Sfusato d’Amalfi
Lemons – specifically, Amalfi lemons – play a huge part in the area’s history and culture. The Italian word for this variety is Sfusato d’Amalfi, and they’re actually a cross between traditional lemons and bitter oranges. To experience this tradition first-hand, book a visit to the Amalfi Lemon Experience, a five minute taxi ride from the city center. They have several experiences available, including touring their lemon groves and cooking classes to learn more about Sfusato d’Amalfi.
Admire a Gorgeous Arab-Norman Inspired Cathedral
Located right in the heart of the city center, you can’t miss Amalfi Cathedral. Its origins trace back to the 9th century when Amalfi was a powerful maritime republic. Construction began in the 9th century and continued over centuries, blending various architectural styles and heavily influenced by the far-away lands Amalfi traded with. If you’re visiting outside of a religious service, the entrance fee to Amalfi Cathedral is 3 euros.
Visit the Piazza Duomo, the City Square
Piazza Duomo, also known as Cathedral Square, is the central and historical heart of Amalfi, Italy. This square is home to the stunning Amalfi Cathedral and has a rich history dating back over a thousand years. I love visiting the shops around the square, where you can find unique items ranging from locally made limoncello to handmade paper. Piazza Duomo is also an ideal place to enjoy a cappucino or spritz at an outdoor table for great people watching.
Best Restaurants in Amalfi, Italy
Whether you’re visiting Amalfi for the day or for an extended amount of time, you’ll need to find some sustenance! Here are a few can’t-miss restaurants:
Ristorante L’Abside
P.za dei Dogi, 31, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
Dine alfresco at this charming trattoria specializing in seafood and pasta. Just off the main square.
Visit the website
Ristorante La Caravella
Via Matteo Camera, 12, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
Named one of the world’s 50 best restaurants, this Michelin starred restaurant serves elevated dishes in a 12th-century palace.
Visit the website
Pasticceria Pansa Amalfi
Piazza Duomo, 40, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
Storied pastry shop right on the main square in Amalfi, since 1830. Don’t miss the infamous Santa Rosa pastry.
Visit their Instagram
Where to Stay the Town of Amalfi
From palatial villas to classic Italian boutique hotels, Amalfi’s hotels are as diverse as the city itself. Below are a few highlights:
Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel
SS163, 8, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
A 10-minute walk from Amalfi Cathedral, this stunning luxury hotel is set in a 13th-century monastery and offers spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast.
Visit the website
Caruso, A Belmond Hotel
Piazza S. Giovanni del Toro, 2, 84010 Ravello SA, Italy
Another gorgeous option, this time in nearby Ravello, a 15-minute taxi ride from the city center of Amalfi. Located in an 11th-century palace, Caruso offers panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast and a peaceful, idyllic setting.
Visit the website
Santa Caterina Hotel
Via Mauro Comite, 9, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
Classic Italian aesthetic meets luxury at this family-owned hotel overlooking the sea. From the whitewashed walls to the colorful, handpainted ceramic floors, every detail is reflective of a true Amalfi experience.
Visit the website
Day Trips from the Town of Amalfi
Amalfi is the perfect location to serve as your home base while you explore the Amalfi Coast. Thanks to an extensive ferry system, you can easily visit nearby destinations such as Positano (a 15-30 minute ferry ride) and Capri (a 50 minute ferry ride.) The ferry schedule is seasonal; check before visiting.
If you have access to a driver, Italy’s SS 163 highway – also known as Amalfi Drive – is one of the most breathtaking drives in the world. This coastline-hugging highway runs from Sorrento to Salerno, and is better driven by a local who’s used to hairpin turns, narrow roads and local driving styles. Here’s a great video that showcases the coastline and notable towns along the drive:
