The Amalfi coastline has been inspiring poets and artists for centuries. The dramatic cliffs, turquoise see, lavish gardens and villas make it one of the main Italy attractions. Here we suggest our favorite things about what to do in Amalfi coast.
Take the Amalfi Coastal Drive
The coastal drive south of Sorrento is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular in Europe. After each turn a magnificent vista opens up: lemon and olive groves, old villas perched on cliffs, the Tyrrhenian Sea glinting in the sun. During high season, it might be difficult to find a spot to pull in for taking snapshots, so be patient.
Walk the coast
There are many hiking trails to choose from in the Amalfi. For the most popular and scenic Sentiero degli Dei (“Trail of the Gods”) you would want 4-5 hours. The magic fern-lined trail in the natural reserve of the Valle delle Ferriere will take you to a lovely waterfall. Another popular option is Vallone dei Mulini along the Canneto river with old water mills ruins.
Chill out in the gardens of Ravello
The ancient town of Ravello is famous for its gardens: Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone. From there you can admire heart stopping views of the Gulf of Sorrento. This small town has seen many famous people: Greta Garbo, Jacqueline Kennedy, Humphrey Bogart, D. H. Lawrence and Richard Wagner – to name just a few. From April to October classical music concerts are held at the Villa Rufolo. See the program here.
See how Romans lived more than 2000 years ago. Baths, brothels, fast food shops and villas, – everything preserved exactly the way it was in 79 A.D. on the day when the Vesuvius exploded. If you want to escape the summer heat and crowds head to the site early and start from the far end where fewer tourists wonder.
Theater at PompeiiEnjoy limoncello in Amalfi
The Amalfi Coast is famous for its limoncello liquor made with large wrinkly lemons that grow in the area. The locals in the town of Amalfi will tell you that limoncello here is the best in Italy. Head to one of the bars in the harbour and enjoy the taste of the Neapolitan Riviera.
Photos by: Wikimedia Commons, Gilbert Bochenek, Andreas Wahra, Kim Traynor, Wikimedia Commons
