Summary
Ladies and gentlemen, we present the Amalfi Coast. An absolute must in every southern Italy itinerary, the Amalfi Coast is a stretch of glitzy town after town with – what seems like – a sandy beach at every turn. Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, this section of the beautiful coastline is full of things to do. In fact, the Amalfi Coast towns and scenery are so spectacular that people even factor the coastline in as a day trip from Rome. Visiting the Amalfi Coast is consistently ranked as one of the top things to do in Italy, and its towns are the best of the bunch.
Beautiful Towns on the Amalfi Coast
Choosing an Amalfi Coast Town
There are so many beautiful Amalfi Coast towns. This guide will cover the best places to visit along the Amalfi Coast. You don’t even need to follow our Amalfi Coast map – these incredible spots are listed in east-to-west order. Although, if you want a map, we have it at the end.
1. Vietri Sul Mare
Vietri Sul Mare is a stunning coastal town and the only town on the coast with its own train station. It has a classy vibe, with burned orange rooftops and bright white buildings. Located on the far east of the Amalfi Coast, Vietri Sul Mare is the closest town to the major city of Salerno. Being busy, well-connected, and full of nightlife, Vietri Sul Mare is an excellent place to experience a ‘larger than life’ Amalfi.
Vietri Sul Mare isn’t all sandy beaches and beach clubs, despite being one of the more modernized Amalfi Coast towns. Culturally, Vietri Sul Mare offers a lot, including the Museo della Ceramica Vietrense – a museum dedicated to colorful ceramics. The vineyard Le Vigne di Raito is another must-visit location. Vietri Sul Mare has a definite slow pace and an extroverted personality.
- Best way to get here: Train from Salerno, bus, rental car, or ferry.
- Top activities: Museo della Ceramica Vietrense, Le Vigne di Raito, and Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Giovanni Battista.
2. Cetara
Cetara is classy to its heart and easily one of the best Amalfi Coast towns. Typical of the region’s smallest towns, Cetara doesn’t have many attractions and instead offers a traditional all-around aesthetic. The small town includes Torre di Cetara – a massive tower on the east end of the beach that dates back to the 14th century – and a large, extravagantly decorated Catholic church in the town center. Cetara definitely gives off more of a fishing village vibe than a town.
So if you want somewhere compact and cultural, Cetara is one of the most natural towns on the Amalfi Coast. The Amalfi town is perfect for a beach day amid beautiful architecture and family-run cafes and restaurants.
- Best way to get here: Bus, ferry, or rental car.
- Top activities: Torre di Cetara, Chiesa Parrocchiale di S. Pietro Apostolo, and the beach.
3. Erchie
Erchie is tiny. By tiny, we mean that if you blink, you’ll almost miss it. As you drive out of Cetara, pay close attention to a left-hand turndown Via Provinciale – the only road that takes you in and out of little Erchie. The village has a lovely beach situated on a dramatically rocky coastline. Spiaggia del Cauco is a quiet beach accessible only by regular paddle boats and canoes from a neighboring beach. It is overlooked by Torre La Cerniola, an exclusive wedding venue atop a sheer cliff with a traditional watchtower and terrace.
Erchie doesn’t have much else apart from a handful of bar restaurants. However, it is great fun for a day trip spent on the beach. The hidden aspect of the village’s second beach, Spiaggia del Cauco, gives it an adventurous vibe to spice things up.
- Best way to get here: Bus or rental car
- Top activities: Spiaggia del Cauco, Spiaggia di Erchie, and cafes.
4. Maiori
Maiori might be a small coastal town, but it is by no means under the radar. This town has been a popular holiday destination since Roman times, and visitors can still explore the Roman villas and historical sites. The town centers of Maiori and its almost-directly-adjacent neighbor, Minori, are just a 20-minute walk apart. While treated as distinct destinations for this guide, you can embark on a single excursion to complete both towns and their attractions.
This Amalfi Coast town is packed with history – from the medieval period and beyond – and is perfect for those who seek historical attractions and sightseeing. Picture castles, Roman villas, and hikes to historical churches. Maiori itineraries are filled with more than local food and a small beach; this town suits go-getter types of travelers.
- Best way to get here: Rental car, bus, or ferry.
- Top activities: Palazzo Mezzacapo Gardens, Villa Romana e Antiquarium, Sentiero dei Limoni, and Spiaggia di Maiori.
5. Tramonti
Before venturing west to Minori, let’s cover Tramonti. This region comprises some of the most mountainous Amalfi Coast villages. To get to Tramonti, you’ll need to drive or catch a bus or brave an approximately one-hour and 20-minute walk from Maiori. It is much more agricultural compared to the touristy towns along the shoreline, where you’ll find olive groves, farmers grazing sheep, and lemon trees.
Historically, Tramonti is believed to have been founded by Romans. This area isn’t just a single village but a collection of hamlets – very small villages. Expect hikes and stunning coastline views, a significant bonus of heading up into the mountains for a better vantage point. Heading to Tramonti offers one of the best ways to capture panoramic views of the coast below.
- Best way to get here: Car or bus.
- Top activities: Viewpoints, Falesia Pietrapiana climbing area, Malopasso hikes, and cafe hopping.
6. Minori
Minori is Maiori’s little historical counterpart. Like its neighbor, this Amalfi town is one of the most historically significant along the coast. Visitors can expect far more than just a sandy beach. Minori has Roman attractions and lots of culture on offer, plus fantastic access to the path of lemons and a scenic hike linking Maiori and Minori. If you decide to hike this path, prepare for steep stairs; there are almost 400 steps along the way. A day trip to Minori can be spent at its Roman Villa and Museum, hiking the lemon path, and admiring beautiful architecture like the Santa Trofimena church.
It is impossible not to love little Minori. Despite its modest size, it has a huge character and offers a packed full-day itinerary. It beautifully combines with visits to Maiori or Tramonti.
- Best way to get here: Car, ferry, or bus.
- Top activities: Roman Villa and Museum, Santa Trofimena church, and scenic hike.
7. Ravello
Ravello is one of the prettiest Amalfi Coast towns, set slightly in the mountains with stunning views over the coastline. This town is most famous for the luxury hotel Villa Cimbrone, specifically its gardens. However, if you’re looking for an attraction beyond hotels, Villa Rufolo is equally beautiful, featuring its infinity terrace overlooking the ocean.
Ravello is a resort town that thrives on exquisite food, wine, and Amalfi views. To further enhance its cultural atmosphere, there’s even a grand auditorium called the Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium, a uniquely designed concert hall hosting regular events.
Ravello is an excellent option for a culture fix, thanks to its extensive art, music, architecture, and breathtaking views.
- Best way to get here: Bus, ferry then bus/walk, and drive.
- Top activities: Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium, Villa Cimbrone, and Villa Rufolo.
8. Scala
Scala is a gem among the mountainous towns on the Amalfi Coast. Despite being one of the main 13 towns, it doesn’t attract crowds like major hubs such as Positano. Scala is an excellent candidate for lesser-visited day trips along the Amalfi Coast.
What might shock you is that Scala is actually the oldest town in the area, said to have been founded after a shipwreck in the 4th Century AD by the Romans. It is one of the most beautiful towns, historically significant in the Campania region. A perfect day in Scala consists of wandering between different historical churches and relishing the dramatic views down to the ocean.
- Best way to get here: Car, bus, or ferry then bus/walk.
- Top activities: Churches, views, and cafes.
9. Atrani
Atrani is the town that would arrive overdressed at any party. Out of all the towns on the Amalfi Coast, Atrani is the most colorful and dramatic. Its bright yellow, pink, and orange buildings, adorned with green domes and blue-painted shutters, scream authenticity amid cobbled streets and arches propped up from the beach illuminated at night. Atrani resembles a peacock against the rocky cliffs of the Amalfi coast, photogenic and very fairytale-esque.
Atrani is a fantastic place to stay for a few days. Its eccentric charm demands more than just a day for appreciation, making it an excellent base to explore other Amalfi Coast towns.
- Best way to get here: Ferry, car, or bus.
- Top activities: Collegiate Santa Maria Maddalena, Spiaggia di Atrani, and Via Valle de Dragone.
10. Amalfi
Next up is the namesake of all the Amalfi Coast towns. Centrally located right in the heart of the coastline, Amalfi serves as one of the main hubs for all the towns along the coast. It offers some gorgeous sunsets from its beautiful Tonino’s Beach and plenty of attractions to justify its status as a top day trip.
Be sure to visit Duomo di Amalfi, a grand medieval cathedral with architecture that seems to fit in a Game of Thrones scene. Other notable places include the Diocesan Museum of Amalfi and the Antico Arsenale della Repubblica di Amalfi, a museum dedicated to the region’s rich maritime history.
Amalfi town epitomizes a microcosm of the Amalfi Coast towns and the wider region, filled with beautiful architecture and exciting attractions.
- Best way to get here: Bus, car, or ferry.
- Top activities: Diocesan Museum of Amalfi, Tonino’s Beach, and Antico Arsenale della Repubblica di Amalfi.
11. Conca dei Marini
Conca dei Marini is stunning, set on a dramatic section of cliff that almost appears built on a vertical face. This town juts up from rocky swim spots with brightly colored buildings ranging from light pinks to intense yellows. Once merely a fishing village often terrorized by pirates, Conca dei Marini is now among the most exclusive places on the Amalfi Coast, offering breathtaking views and a stop on any worthwhile boat tour.
From Conca dei Marini, visit the Emerald Grotto, also known as Grotta dello Smeraldo. This bright green sea cave is created from refracted light and rises 30 meters high. Discovered by local fishermen, it can be reached by boat or a steep staircase from the Amalfitana highway.
- Best way to get here: Guided tour, bus, or car.
- Top activities: Emerald Grotto, viewpoints, the beach, and cafes.
12. Furore
If you seek a town with a unique aesthetic, Furore is the one to visit. Only a few Amalfi Coast towns feature bridges that become attractions themselves, and crossing the narrow gorge of Fiordo di Furore to enter the town adds to its novelty, thanks to the dramatic arched bridge.
This popular destination possesses a strong sense of individuality. Since the Amalfi Coast is famed for its beautiful beaches, it’s fitting to visit one of its smallest beaches – a tiny spot unnamed by Google at the end of Fiordo di Furore.
Furore is a place to stop, admire the distinct town layout, and relax on the beach. Though small, the striking gray stone buildings and dramatic bridge certainly make a memorable impression.
- Best way to get here: Bus or car.
- Top activities: The Fiordo di Furore beach, Fiordo di Furore, and the bridge.
13. Pianillo
Pianillo is the ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts. You can drive (or enjoy a bus ride, if preferred) up from the main highway, navigating some dizzying switchbacks while passing other towns like San Michele.
Once you reach Pianillo, you are treated to some of the best hiking trails on the coastline. Known as a hiking destination, Pianillo invites you to bring your camera and hiking boots.
The Path of the Gods is one of the most famous routes in Pianillo, alongside the more challenging Tre Callii Mountain, which offers 360-degree views of the Amalfi Coast. On a clear day, you can even spot Capri from Tre Calli Mountain.
Pianillo isn’t solely about hiking; you can enjoy the views from the serene viewing platform at Parco Corona – Bomerano or savor fresh local cuisine at the many restaurants and cafes in the town.
- Best way to get here: Bus or car.
- Top activities: Tre Callii Mountain, Path of the Gods, and Parco Corona – Bomerano.
14. Praiano
Praiano is an Amalfi Coast town right on the oceanfront that offers an intense aesthetic. Its shoreline is dramatic and characterized by sunbathers on the alcove beach, Marina di Praia, and historical ruins of the Torre Asciola to the east. Praiano’s coast features sections that appear rugged and inhospitable, interspersed with alcoves and sea caves carved into the cliffs.
A rocky outcrop also rises offshore, forming a tiny jagged island. Yet, Praiano’s somewhat wild first impression is softened by its colorful buildings and a maze of pastel-painted private residences. It also serves as a prime hiking destination, providing access to the Path of the Gods, which leads into the mountain area above the town.
Praiano is now known as one of the most picturesque spots along the Amalfi Coast. If you take a boat tour, rest assured it will include a stop at Praiano – it is one of the most iconic towns along the coastline. Even if your visit is just for a day trip, squeezing Praiano into your itinerary is highly recommended.
- Best way to get here: Car or bus.
- Top activities: Path of the Gods, Marina di Praia, and Torre Asciola.
15. Nocelle
Nocelle is the quintessential small-town hidden gem. Often described as an ‘ancient hamlet,’ Nocelle perches high above the bustling scene of Positano, allowing for stunning views of the ocean and the coastline below. It is accessible on foot from Positano via a 1,700-step staircase or by car or bus if you’d prefer to avoid the rigorous trek.
Historically, Nocelle served a strategic purpose; its vantage point made it less accessible during the era of rampant pirate raids, functioning essentially as a watchtower.
Nocelle offers a fantastic day trip from Positano, especially as a hiking hotspot with direct access to the beautiful Path of the Gods. If you want to escape the primary tourist radar, Nocelle presents an incredible option on the Amalfi Coast, receiving far fewer visitors than other locations.
- Best way to get here: Bus, car, or hike.
- Top activities: Path of the Gods, Nocelle to Positano hike, viewpoints, and cafes.
16. Arienzo
Arienzo is a tiny village along the Amalfi Coast, most famous for the Arienzo Beach Club. The beach boasts a regular shuttle service of partygoers from Positano and transforms into a lively hub of cocktails and music during peak hours. Yet, for a balanced experience, consider basing yourself in Arienzo; enjoy the lively atmosphere and the village charm during quieter hours once the parties end, allowing you to explore areas like Vallone Porto, a stunning network of trails featuring waterfalls and beautiful scenery.
From Arienzo, you can also easily journey to Nocelle to start the Path of the Gods trail or take a day trip to the busier Positano. Arienzo often gets overlooked for day trips, yet it serves as the perfect base for exploring surrounding regions.
- Best way to get here: Bus or car.
- Top activities: Path of the Gods trail, Vallone Porto, and Arienzo Beach Club.
17. Positano
You are likely already familiar with Positano or will recognize it upon seeing stunning images. Numerous films have featured this central Amalfi town, showcasing its impressive charm.
If you desire a location that balances between an electric atmosphere and a laid-back vibe, Positano is your ideal destination. The town possesses a luxurious undercurrent owing to its Hollywood associations and assortment of upscale hotels. However, it also offers a slow, indulgent pace that inherently encourages relaxation.
Scenic pullovers along Positano’s clifftop roads provide opportunities to admire ocean views and enjoy freshly squeezed lemon juice from street vendors. You can unwind on the beach during the day and indulge in refined nightlife after dark. If you choose to stay on the Amalfi Coast, Positano serves as one of the most popular bases, offering a multitude of attractions (be sure to research where to stay in Positano as it contains distinct areas).
- Best way to get here: Car, bus, or guided tour.
- Top activities: MAR Positano Villa Romana, Le Tese di Positano, Belvedere Santa Maria del Castello, Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, and Arienzo Beach Club Positano.
18. Nerano
Nerano is the westernmost region of these Amalfi Coast towns and villages. Many visitors tick off the major towns between Positano and Salerno and consider their journey complete. However, by venturing out to Nerano, you can embrace an off-the-beaten-path experience.
The village is overlooked by the ruins of the Torre di Montalto castle atop a rocky hill, providing a serene escape from the modern world due to its surrounding nature reserves and dense undergrowth. This setting is perfect for those seeking to escape the crowds of other camera-happy tourists.
So, what does Nerano actually offer as a travel destination? The history-rich village has been around for centuries and served as a favored summer residence for Emperor Tiberius Nerone, which lends it even more charm.
Situated in the expansive Punta Campanella Natural Marine Reserve, the village is encompassed by beautiful beaches and diverse wildlife. You can relax on Spiaggia La Perla beach, hike the Sentiero Baia di Leranto, or savor local cuisine. As expected, the local seafood is sublime, featuring the freshest catch with an incredibly short food-to-plate journey. It is an exceptional destination for both delicious food and a small yet historic center.
- Best way to get here: Bus, bike, or car.
- Top activities: Punta Campanella Natural Marine Reserve, Spiaggia La Perla beach, local seafood, and hiking Sentiero Baia di Leranto.
Exploring any of these Amalfi Coast towns is truly bucket list-worthy. While it’s essential to visit the main towns and UNESCO sites, don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path. The Amalfi Coast offers the best of both worlds.
What are the 13 towns on the Amalfi Coast?
The 13 Amalfi Coast towns are Amalfi, Atrani, Cetara, Conca dei Marini, Furore, Maiori, Minori, Positano, Praiano, Ravello, Scala, Tramonti, and Vietri sul Mare.
What are the Amalfi Coast towns in order?
From east to west, the Amalfi Coast towns are Vietri sul Mare, Cetara, Maiori, Tramonti, Minori, Ravello, Scala, Atrani, Amalfi, Conca dei Marini, Furore, Praiano, and Positano.
What towns are between Amalfi and Positano?
Conca dei Marini, Praiano, Laurito, and Furore are all located between Amalfi and Positano.
Amalfi Coast Map
Every Amalfi Coast town deserves a visit; all the towns and villages included in this guide are worthwhile, even for just a day trip. Day trips to this incredible coastline are extremely popular in southern Italy. With many bus and ferry routes, you don’t necessarily need a rental car to explore. The Amalfi Coast features stunning aesthetics, with traditional homes cascading from the mountains to the sandy shores.
Planning Your Trip To The Amalfi Coast Right Now?
Consider some of the top tours available on the Amalfi Coast and remember to plan ahead when visiting Italy!
Top Activities and Tours on the Amalfi Coast:
- Positano: Full-Day Private Amalfi Coast Vespa Tour (Most Popular on the Amalfi Coast)
- From Sorrento/Nerano: Amalfi and Positano Boat Tour (Our Favourite)
- From Amalfi: Li Galli Islands and Capri Full-Day Boat Tour (Best for Capturing Your Experience)
- From Positano: Amalfi Coast Sunset Cruise (Best Deal)
During your stay on the Amalfi Coast, consider taking amazing day trips. You could visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a Pompeii day trip or explore historical sites and the Blue Grotto on a day trip to Capri. You might even check off a visit to one of the major cities in Italy.
Plan Your Next Trip to the Amalfi Coast With these Resources
- Where To Stay In Positano: Top Positano Hotels For Any Budget
- 22 Best Things To Do In Capri
- The Very Best Things To Do In Italy
- 16 Best Things To Do On The Amalfi Coast
Travel Planning Resources
Are you looking to arrange your next trip? Utilize these resources that have been tried and tested.
Book Your Flights: Start planning by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have found their deals to be consistently good over the years.
Book your Hotel: Find the best hotel prices with these two providers. For those in Europe, use Booking.com, and for all other regions, use TripAdvisor.
Find Apartment Rentals: For the cheapest prices on apartment rentals, check out VRBO.
Travel Insurance: Don’t leave home without it. Here’s a recommendation:
- Safety Wing – for occasional travelers.
- Medjet – for global air medical transport and travel security.
Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? We recommend Get Your Guide.
Need more assistance planning your trip? Be sure to check out our Resources Page, which highlights great travel companies we trust.
