There are good reasons why the UN named the Amalfi Coast a World Heritage Site. They are the same reasons that have led tourists to pour into the region since the 1700s: incredible views, picturesque towns, fine local handicrafts, and great food.
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Named after the area’s largest town, the Amalfi Coast is a strip of rugged coastline between the cities of Sorrento and Salerno. Each of the dozen-odd towns offers unique charms and well-researched travelers reap rewards by moving around. A trip to Amalfi offers an array of unforgettable activities.
Whether you come for the clifftop villas of Ravello, a scenic boat trip from the marina in Positano to the famous island of Capri, the fabulous shopping in Amalfi itself, or to find yourself breathless after walking the Path of the Gods, the Amalfi Coast will not disappoint.
Of course, The most rewarding things in life don’t come easy, and it’s no different on the Amalfi Coast. Home to some of Italy’s most stunning vistas and prettiest towns, the region is characterized by vertiginous slopes offering jaw-dropping sea views. So, because of its topography, there are a lot of stairs. It is also famously crowded during the summer season (definitely consider visiting in the offseason, either in October or early spring — many restaurants, shops, and attractions are closed from the middle of November till spring). But for those willing and able to take the necessary steps for a great vacation, there’s nothing like Amalfi.
Though relatively small, the Amalfi Coast is a diverse region with many places to stay, dine, and visit, and we’ve curated this list of 10 great places to stay.
Apartment Dependance Donna Giulia$246.98/nightly avg
Where better to begin than in the town of Amalfi itself? This apartment has all the features of 21st-century life but retains the timeless Mediterranean style that draws millions to places like the Amalfi Coast. This recently renovated accommodation is just a few hundred feet from the water, so the walk up is very mild. That also means it has incredible views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, easily enjoyed from the comfort of the balcony. The bus stop and taxi stand are just around the corner, providing you easy access to the rest of this fabled stretch of coastline.
Sosóre Holiday Home$222.60/nightly avg
Praiano is a great home base for any Amalfi Coast vacation. Situated between the region’s two biggest towns (Positano and Amalfi), Praiano itself is one of the quieter towns on the strip. This doesn’t mean it falls short when it comes to views, sites, or incredible restaurants. And this wonderful home promises easy access to Praiano and the area.
In addition to the timeless beauty of the Mediterranean, the balcony has an unobstructed view of the town’s medieval fortification. The apartment is divided into two floors, each with a bedroom. Among other nearby delights, the seaside cuisine of Il Pirata Ristorante and beach club are just about a hundred (stair) steps down. Fine food and ocean spray make the climb well worth it.
Villino Blue$482.30/nightly avg
This two-story house is another great option to consider for your stay in Praiano. The only danger is that the amenities here might prevent travelers from experiencing all Amalfi has to offer. With two large terraces (the higher one protected by a retractable awning), a full suite of kitchen appliances, a laundry room, and a large verdant, 750-square-foot garden, you may just decide to stay home and miss out on the fantastic local restaurants. The views, needless to say, are absolutely postcard worthy.
Delfini Positano$837.40/nightly avg
This house in Positano is ideal for those looking to avoid too much strain on their knees while walking home — you’ll get enough of that on your day trips! It is just 20 vertical steps from the water, a very small amount for the Amalfi Coast. What’s more, those 20 steps will lead you directly to the dock where you can catch a ride to Amalfi or Capri, or simply enjoy a pleasure cruise. The area around the dock has two beaches and some of the finest restaurants and shops in town.
Casa Edda$196.98/nightly avg
Casa Edda is conveniently located just 36 steps below the main road in Positano. This means that while heading down to the beach and docks will be a bit more strenuous, there’s easy access to the buses and taxis that will shephard you to other towns. The bus stop is right outside the entrance way. You’ll appreciate the convenience of having a home on the street level after a long day of walking up and down the steps of Amalfi.
The house itself has a large terrace with a clear view of Positano’s churches and beaches. The high-ceilinged living room has a sofa that can also serve as a double bed.
Villa Ravello Grecamore$603.14/nightly avg
Spacious and grand, this villa in Ravello is great for families or larger groups of friends traveling together. Unlike the other towns covered so far, Ravello isn’t directly on the coast but rather sits 1,100 feet above sea level, perched above the town of San Cosma. As you will see from the spacious balcony at this villa, its imposing height gives Ravello some of the best views in the whole region. The town is quieter than those on the coasts but still boasts memorable attractions like the gardens and Infinite Terrace at Villa Cimbrone and the 800-year-old Villa Rufolo. In addition to the remarkable terrace, this villa has five bedrooms, each with its own balcony.
Villa Tecla$491.84/nightly avg
Those seeking luxurious semi-seclusion can hardly find a better choice than Villa Tecla B, a large villa in the hilltop hamlet of Nocelle. Perched 1,380 feet above Positano, Nocelle is famous for its lemon drinks. Staying here also gives one easy access to the Path of the Gods, a stunning and moderately difficult hike that passes through the town.
Villa Tecla is a two-story building with a large terrace complete with a private swimming pool. With three bedrooms and easy access to Nocelle’s shops, it is a perfect place for a family or friend group to relax for a quiet day or two — relaxation which will be much needed after walking the Path of the Gods.
Fabulous House In Capri$636/nightly avg
While Capri isn’t technically on the Amalfi Coast, no visit to the region is complete without a trip to this storied island. It is absolutely possible to experience the island by way of a day trip, but once you’re there, you’ll surely want to stay. Why not choose this house?
Amenities include a fine kitchen, outdoor cooking space, and a spacious terrace complete with a jacuzzi. It is only about halfway up the mountainous island’s slope, making it easier to access than many other options.
Capri’s many attractions include luxurious 19th-century villas, premier shopping, and the palace from which Tiberius ruled the Roman Empire for over a decade. Note that walking is required to visit most places on the island.
Villa Azurra$511.98/nightly avg
For waterfront privacy and luxury in one of Italy’s most famous vacation spots, look no further than Villa Azurra. This breathtaking property is located in a hamlet halfway between Praiano and Amalfi. You will have to descend 230 steps from the main road to get to the villa, but the walk is well worth it. A further 100 steps down a private stairway brings visitors directly to the water.
If you’re not up for that, the house has a large swimming pool on its roomy terrace. This villa is perfect for a small group of holidaymakers keen to enjoy the busy sights and waters of the Amalfi Coast while preserving a sense of privacy at home.
Zaffiro, Exclusive Apartment In Amalfi$421.88
Zaffiro is one of four private apartments in a 19th-century villa. It has two bedrooms, a kitchen, and direct access to the historic hanging garden that makes the villa stand out. The gardens and pool are accessible to residents of all four apartments. The complex is just south of Amalfi on the main road, providing easy access to the docks, beach, and main part of Amalfi without requiring the use of stairs. Multiple Michelin-reviewed restaurants are within walking distance.
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