Amalfi Holidays

The Amalfi Coast

The pastel Italian town of Amalfi stands out against a backdrop of deep blue sea in Italy, where the Bay of Salerno rises to meet beaches, green craggy hillsides and volcanic Mount Vesuvius. Take a drive along the world-famous Amalfi Coast and discover why it’s one of the most beautiful roads in the world.

World-famous Views on the Amalfi Coast

Amalfi is a small town 35 km south of Naples, located on the coast along one of the world’s most spectacular driving routes. Sitting in a stunning setting at the base of Monte Cerreto in a deep green ravine, Amalfi is surrounded by cliffs and looks out to the Bay of Salerno. Once a wealthy trading port, this UNESCO World Heritage site has grown into the largest tourist resort on the famous Neapolitan Rivieraand is full of authentic Italian charm, as well as plenty of sunshine.

The delightful old quarter offers an elaborate 11th century cathedral as well as plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants. Sample the pizza, invented in nearby Naples, or sip local limoncello beneath colourful bougainvillea. Summers in Amalfi are scorching, the spring and autumn warm and pleasant, and the winter months, whilst somewhat cooler, still offer an abundance of sunshine. Lemons grow all along the coastline and are celebrated in an annual Lemon Festival in September.

No holiday to Amalfi could possibly be complete without a trip along the Amalfi Drive, a spectacular coastal journey across the Neapolitan Riviera which stretches from Sorrento through Positano, Amalfi, Minori and Maiori to Salerno. The drive is both stunning and hair-raising, with breathtaking views across the Tyrrhenian and Mediterranean seas.

Amalfi’s Attractions

Amalfi’s Saint Andrew's Cathedral was built in the 11th century and was remodelled several times, resulting in a unique mix of Romanesque, Moorish and Baroque styles. The cathedral overlooks the Piazza Duomo, the town’s central plaza, where visitors eat gelato and shop for locally produced ceramics.

In addition to its charming town centre and famous views, Amalfi has plenty of beaches and activities to offer. Some hotels have their own private stretches of beach to relax on, and there is a small public pebbled beach facing the Mediterranean. The nearby towns of Minori and Maiori have some of the finest sandy beaches that the Amalfi coastline has to offer and are well worth a visit.

Walking is a popular activity for visitors to Amalfi, with stunning coastal paths offering postcard-worthy views. You can also discover this picturesque landscape on horseback or by guided cycle ride. If you prefer to get wet, try your hand at wind surfing, sailing or jet skiing, or why not go scuba diving in the Bay of Salerno?

Ravello, Positano and Sorrento are all within easy driving distance; take an organised trip if the cliff-side road is a little too scary to drive alone, or enjoy a day excursion over the waters to the islands of Ischia and Capri. Also within easy reach on holidays in Amalfi is the exciting city of Naples, ancient Herculaneum, fascinating Pompeii and imposing Mount Vesuvius. Any time of year, a holiday to Amalfi is sure to be memorable and will have you planning your next trip back.