The Amalfi Coast… just the name brings to mind colorful houses clinging to cliffs, sparkling turquoise waters, and the scent of fresh lemons in the air, doesn’t it? When I first planned my trip to this dream destination, I was absolutely bursting with excitement. Like me, you’re probably wondering where to start among so many stunning spots.
Well, let me take you through my personal favorite villages on the Amalfi Coast—the places that truly stole my heart. In this guide, I’ll share my own experiences, hidden gems, and the best photo spots to make your trip unforgettable. Get ready to fall in love with Italy!
Table of Contents
Positano – The Vertical Dream
If there is one place that defines the Amalfi Coast, it’s Positano. As I stepped out of my car and looked up at the pastel-colored houses stacked almost vertically on the cliffs, I finally understood why people call it the ‘Vertical City.’
My legs definitely felt the workout! Walking through its narrow, winding alleys (locally known as scalinatella) is like being in a living postcard. I spent hours just getting lost in the bougainvillea-covered streets, discovering tiny boutiques selling handmade leather sandals and world-famous lemon ceramics.
Pro Tip from my trip: Don’t just stay at the top. Hike down to Spiaggia Grande (the main beach). Looking back up at the town from the shoreline is a view that will stay with you forever. It’s expensive, yes, but sipping a Limoncello at a cliffside cafe while the sun sets? That’s a memory worth every penny.
Amalfi Town – History and Heartbeat
“After the bustling vibes of Positano, I felt a different kind of energy when I arrived in Amalfi. This town was once a powerful maritime republic, and you can still feel that grandeur walking through its streets.
The absolute highlight for me was standing at the bottom of the massive staircase leading to the Duomo di Amalfi (St. Andrew’s Cathedral). It’s breathtaking. I spent ages just admiring the intricate Byzantine mosaics on its facade.
Personal Experience: I highly recommend walking away from the main square and exploring the narrow, tunnel-like alleyways behind it. I stumbled upon some incredible, authentic family-run restaurants that served the best Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare (local pasta with seafood) I’ve ever tasted!
Ravello – The City of Music and Views
If you want to escape the crowds and experience pure romance, Ravello is the place to go. Unlike the other villages, Ravello is perched high up in the mountains, offering jaw-dropping views of the coast below that feel almost surreal.
My favorite memory here was visiting Villa Cimbrone. Walking through its lush gardens and reaching the ‘Terrace of Infinity’ was truly special. Standing there, surrounded by marble statues, with only the sea and sky in front of me, I felt like I was floating above the world.
Pro Tip: Ravello is famous for its music festivals. If you visit in summer, try to catch a concert at the Villa Rufolo gardens. Listening to classical music with that view is an experience I will never forget.
Atrani – The Hidden Gem
Just a short, scenic walk (or a quick bus ride) from Amalfi Town lies Atrani. This is truly a hidden gem that many tourists skip, but I am so glad I didn’t. It’s known as Italy’s smallest village, and it feels like stepping back in time.
What I loved most was its quiet, authentic atmosphere. Instead of luxury shops, I found fishermen repairing their nets and locals chatting in the central square, Piazza Umberto I.
Personal Experience: I spent a quiet afternoon sitting at a small cafe in the piazza, enjoying a sfogliatella (local pastry) and watching the village life unfold. It was the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle, offering a true, untouristy taste of Italian life.
Praiano – The Romantic Sunset Spot
If you’re looking for a quiet place to watch the sunset without fighting for space, Praiano is your spot. It’s located between Positano and Amalfi, but it feels like a different world—very laid-back and authentic.
For me, the magic of Praiano is in the evening. I found a spot near the Church of San Gennaro (with its stunning tiled dome) and watched as the sky turned shades of orange and purple behind the distant cliffside of Positano.
Personal Experience: I also hiked down the steep stairs to Marina di Praia. It’s a tiny beach tucked between high cliffs, and swimming there felt so intimate. Afterwards, I had a fantastic dinner at a nearby seaside restaurant called La Conchiglia—fresh pasta with a view of the sea all to myself!
Maiori & Minori – Family Fun and Culinary Delights
For a more relaxed, family-friendly vibe (and some seriously good food!), the twin towns of Maiori and Minori are perfect. Unlike the steep, cliff-hugging villages, these towns boast the longest stretches of sandy beaches on the Amalfi Coast, making them ideal if you’re traveling with kids or just want more space to unwind.
In Maiori, I loved strolling along the wide promenade and enjoying the laid-back beach scene. It felt less crowded and more authentic.
Just a short walk or ferry ride away is Minori, a town famous for its Roman heritage and, more importantly, its pastries! My personal highlight was visiting Pasticceria Sal De Riso. Trust me, their delizia al limone (lemon sponge cake) is a little piece of heaven. It’s an absolute must-try for any sweet tooth!
Which Amalfi Village is for You?
“Choosing just one village to visit on the Amalfi Coast is impossible—they each have a unique flavor and charm. From the vertical glamour of Positano and the historic grandeur of Amalfi Town to the romantic serenity of Ravello and the quiet charm of Atrani and Praiano, this coast truly offers something for everyone. And for those looking to relax and indulge, the family-friendly beaches and incredible food in Maiori and Minori are hard to beat.
My advice? Try to experience a bit of everything! Whether you’re hiking the hills, sipping Limoncello by the sea, or exploring ancient ruins, the Amalfi Coast is a destination that stays with you forever.
