One week on the Amalfi Coast
Visiting the Amalfi Coast in 2020 was a bizarre experience — for obvious reasons. What is typically one of the most touristy destinations in Italy, looked like a 1990’s episode of Rick Steves. We felt lucky that we didn’t have to make reservations anywhere and could easily get around. It eliminated the need to plan ahead and allowed us to slow down. With this being said, if you plan on visiting the Amalfi Coast as the world get’s back to ‘normal’, just remember you will not be alone.
Our trip took us from Sorrento to Capri, Positano, Amalfi and Ravello. There were a lot of steps, so make sure to pack your walking shoes. Another thing you can’t forget to pack is your appetite because the pasta and pizza will blow your mind. Oh, and if you are feeling fancy, spend the day at one of the many beach clubs and sip on that limoncello.
Booking a trip to the Amalfi Coast can be overwhelming at first. Where should you stay? How many places should you see? What is the best way to get around?
Sit back and hold on to your Aperol Spritz — we got you covered.
What to do:
Sorrento
Sorrento is a great place to base yourself. It has the most affordable accommodation and you can get around the coast via car or ferry.
Walk around town (especially the smaller tucked in streets).
Hang out at the beach clubs (although we would recommend saving your beach club budget on Capri or Positano).
Grab a sunset drink at Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria.
Positano
Yes, the rumours are true. Positano is probably the most stunning and picturesque destination along the Amalfi coast — but hold on to your wallets — it will have the most expensive accommodation.
‘Path of the Gods’ hike which starts in the little town of Nocelle.
Reserve some beach beds and lunch at Arienzo Beach Club. You can take a free shuttle boat from the Positano harbour with your reservation.
Capri
Take a day trip to Capri or stay for a couple of nights! The nice thing is you can easily access Capri by ferry from most cities along the Amalfi Coast.
Visit a beach club! It’s recommended to reserve ahead of time (anticipate this will be an expensive experience). Beach clubs recs: La Fontelina, Da Luigi ai Faraglioni, Torre Saracena
Trek around the island and see where you end up! There are a lot of hidden roads and pathways.
Amalfi
Grab a bite to eat along the marina!
Day trip up to Ravello! Be prepared for a sketchy but beautiful bus ride as they whip around the corners.
Check out the Amalfi Cathedral.
Where to eat & Drink:
You can’t really go wrong with the food. Here were some of our favorite spots:
Ristorante Buca di Bacco
Soul & Fish
Parrucchiano La Favorita
Pizzeria da Franco
Ristorante Da Costantino
Casa e Bottega
Where to stay:
There are many options on Booking.com and Airbnb. If money is not a problem, you can ball out at one of those luxury hotels you see on Instagram (although we advise against that). Save your money for the food and experiences! The Amalfi Coast is one of the most expensive destinations in Italy.
We stayed at an affordable Airbnb in Sorrento and at Villa Palumbo in Positano.
If you are still curious about some of the luxury hotels, here is a list: