Amalfi, Italy Travel Guide

Experience the charm and beauty of Amalfi, a stunning coastal town on Italy's Sorrentine Peninsula, known for its dramatic cliffs, historical landmarks, and vibrant local culture.

Nestled along the southern edge of Italy's Sorrentine Peninsula, Amalfi is a picturesque coastal town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and vibrant culture. With its dramatic cliffs that plunge into the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Amalfi is a visual feast for any traveler. The town itself is a maze of narrow alleys and staircases, adorned with colorful houses and lush bougainvillea. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, where you can enjoy the sight of fishing boats bobbing in the harbor and savor freshly caught seafood at a local trattoria. Don't miss the Cathedral of St. Andrew, an architectural gem with its striking Arab-Norman design and stunning views from the top. Amalfi is not just about sightseeing; it's also about experiencing the local way of life. Visit the lemon groves that produce the famed Amalfi lemons, used to make the region's iconic limoncello. Take a boat trip to explore hidden coves and grottoes, or hike the scenic trails that wind through the surrounding hills. Each step you take in Amalfi reveals another layer of its rich history and captivating beauty.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Amalfi.

Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds, especially during the summer months.
Wear comfortable shoes as the town is best explored on foot, and there are many stairs and steep paths.
Try the local seafood dishes and don't miss out on tasting the famed limoncello.
Take a boat tour to fully appreciate the stunning coastline and discover hidden gems like the Emerald Grotto.
Consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall for milder weather and fewer tourists.

Explore Amalfi: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Amalfi

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

La Vigna Degli Dei Winery

Experience the beauty of organic winemaking at La Vigna Degli Dei Winery in San Lazzaro, where nature and tradition create exquisite wines.

5.0

Ceramiche Piccadilly

Discover the charm of Italian craftsmanship at Ceramiche Piccadilly, where vibrant pottery tells the story of the Amalfi Coast.

4.8

Collegiate Church of Saint Mary Magdalene 'Penitente'

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Collegiate Church of Saint Mary Magdalene 'Penitente' in Atrani, Italy.

4.8

Villa Cimbrone

Experience the timeless beauty and luxury of Villa Cimbrone, a historic hotel perched above the Amalfi Coast in Ravello, Italy's enchanting gem.

4.7

Best landmarks in Amalfi

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Duomo di Amalfi

Explore the Duomo di Amalfi, a stunning Catholic cathedral showcasing breathtaking architecture and rich history in the heart of Amalfi.

4.8

Amalfi Boat Tour S.r.l

Unveil the beauty of the Amalfi Coast with Amalfi Boat Tour S.r.l, your gateway to unforgettable sea adventures and breathtaking coastal views.

5.0

Amalfi Coast

Explore the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning cliffs, picturesque villages, and rich Italian culture.

4.7

Villa Rufolo

Discover the enchanting Villa Rufolo in Ravello, a historical landmark boasting stunning gardens and breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast.

4.6

Best restaurants in Amalfi

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Da Ciccio Cielo Mare Terra

Experience exquisite seafood and Italian cuisine at Da Ciccio Cielo Mare Terra on the breathtaking Amalfi Coast.

4.8

Baglio Amalfi Italian Bistrò Cucina , vino&drinks

Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Baglio Amalfi Italian Bistrò Cucina on the breathtaking Amalfi coast.

4.8

Agricola Fore Porta

Discover the flavors of Italy at Agricola Fore Porta: An organic farmstay offering authentic cuisine amidst stunning Amalfi Coast scenery.

4.7

Gerry's pub

British-style pub serving authentic Italian cuisine with genuine hospitality and stunning coastal views.

4.7

Best bars in Amalfi

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Baglio Amalfi Italian Bistrò Cucina , vino&drinks

Savor the authentic taste of the Amalfi Coast at Baglio Amalfi Bistrò, where Italian flavors and Mediterranean charm meet.

4.8

Gerry's pub

Discover the charm of Amalfi at Gerry's Pub, where authentic Italian cuisine meets a vibrant pub atmosphere in a breathtaking coastal setting.

4.7

Sea Waves Bar

Discover the serene beauty and exquisite cocktails at Sea Waves Bar, Amalfi's premier observation deck for breathtaking coastal views.

4.8

Cocktail Bar

Discover Amalfi's vibrant cocktail bar, where refreshing drinks and stunning views create an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Amalfi

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Gerry's pub

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Gerry's Pub in Amalfi, where local flavors meet a lively pub experience.

4.7

Sea Waves Bar

Experience breathtaking views and delightful drinks at Sea Waves Bar, the perfect escape on the Amalfi coast.

4.8

Silver Moon

Experience the enchanting Amalfi Coast at Silver Moon, a beach club offering relaxation, exquisite dining, and stunning views.

4.4

Masaniello Art Café

Discover the vibrant Masaniello Art Café in Amalfi, where culinary delights meet artistic expression in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

4.2

Best shops in Amalfi

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

JP boutique

Explore unique fashion and quality craftsmanship at JP Boutique in Amalfi, where Italian style meets Mediterranean charm.

4.5

La Bottega D' Oro

Discover a treasure trove of exquisite wines at La Bottega D' Oro, Amalfi's premier wine store, perfect for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

4.8

ModAmalfi

Experience the essence of Amalfi through fashion at ModAmalfi, where exquisite linen dresses and stylish apparel await.

5.0

Shop Altracostiera

Discover unique handcrafted pottery and local handicrafts at Shop Altracostiera, a treasure trove on the Amalfi Coast showcasing the region's artistic spirit.

4.9

Explore Amalfi on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Amalfi, mapped for you.

Amalfi Essentials

Amalfi is located on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy, within the province of Salerno. The nearest major airport is Naples International Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino), approximately 70 kilometers away. From Naples, you can take a bus, train, or rent a car to reach Amalfi. The most scenic route is the coastal road (SS163), which offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Another option is to take a ferry from Naples or Salerno to Amalfi, which provides a unique perspective of the coastline.
Amalfi is a compact town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips along the Amalfi Coast, local SITA buses are available and connect to nearby towns like Positano and Ravello. Taxis are also available but can be expensive. Renting a scooter or a car is an option, but parking can be challenging. During the summer months, ferries and boats operate between Amalfi and other coastal towns, offering a scenic and convenient mode of transportation.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Amalfi. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases, local markets, and in case you visit more remote areas. ATMs are readily available throughout Amalfi, but be mindful of potential fees when withdrawing cash.
Amalfi is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any popular tourist area, it is essential to be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded places like markets and busier streets. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. The town is relatively free of high-crime neighborhoods, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.
In case of emergency, dial 112, the European emergency number. There is a local police station (Carabinieri) and a medical clinic in Amalfi. For more serious medical emergencies, the nearest hospital is in Salerno. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies (Farmacia) are available in town for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress stylishly but modestly, especially when visiting churches. Avoid beachwear outside of beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, including covering shoulders and knees when entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient on public transport. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening). A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and be open to culinary experiences. Don't rush meals; Italians value leisurely dining.
To experience Amalfi like a local, visit the town's small markets and buy fresh produce and local specialties like limoncello. Engage with locals and ask for their recommendations; they are usually friendly and proud of their heritage. Don't miss the chance to explore the lesser-known paths and trails around Amalfi for stunning views. For an authentic experience, attend local festivals and events, such as the Festival of St. Andrew in June and November, which celebrates the town's patron saint.

When is the best time to visit Amalfi?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Amalfi

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Amalfi. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeArrivederci
  [ah-ree-veh-dehr-chee]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore/Prego
  [pehr fah-voh-reh/preh-goh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [graht-zee-eh]
- Excuse me/SorryMi scusi/Scusa
  [mee skoo-zee/skoo-zah]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stai]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [pahr-lee een-gleh-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [nohn kah-pee-skoh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menù, per favore
  [vohr-ray veh-deh-reh eel meh-noo, pehr fah-voh-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [nohn mahn-joh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vohr-ray pah-gah-reh, pehr fah-voh-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vah-ee vee-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiamate la polizia!
  [kyah-mah-teh lah poh-lee-tsya]
- Call a doctor!Chiamate un dottore!
  [kyah-mah-teh oon doh-toh-reh]
- I'm lostMi sono perso
  [mee soh-noh pehr-soh]
- I'm illMi sento male
  [mee sehn-toh mah-leh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vohr-ray kohm-prah-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwar-dahn-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwahn-toh koh-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo caro
  [eh trohp-poh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?Può abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoh ahb-bahs-sah-reh eel preh-tsoh]
- What time is it?Che ora è?
  [keh oh-rah eh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
- Half past (10)Le dieci e mezza
  [leh dee-eh-chee eh meht-sah]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
- EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Due
  [doo-eh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [seh-ee]
- 7Sette
  [seht-teh]
- 8Otto
  [oh-toh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [dee-eh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dov'è un/il...?
  [doh-veh oon/eel]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-ree-tsoh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwah-ee mohs-trar-mee soo-lah mahp-pah]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando è il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwahn-doh eh eel prohs-see-moh ow-toh-boos]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon beel-yet-toh pehr]

History of Amalfi

Amalfi was one of the first maritime republics in Italy, rising to prominence in the 9th century. It played a crucial role in Mediterranean trade, establishing commercial bases in North Africa, Byzantium, and the Levant. The Amalfitan merchants were known for their prowess in trade, dominating the seas and establishing a powerful navy.
In the 12th century, Amalfi produced the 'Tabula Amalphitana,' a code of maritime law that influenced naval legislation across the Mediterranean. This document regulated issues such as ship ownership, the crew's rights, and maritime insurance, reflecting the city’s advanced understanding of naval commerce and legal frameworks.
Constructed in the 9th century, the Cathedral of Sant'Andrea is a landmark in Amalfi. It houses relics of Saint Andrew, brought to the city in 1208. The cathedral's stunning Arab-Norman architecture, bronze doors from Constantinople, and the Cloister of Paradise, an elegant Arabic-style courtyard, are testaments to Amalfi's rich cultural and religious heritage.
Amalfi played a vital role during the Crusades, providing ships and support to the Christian armies. The city's strategic position and maritime strength enabled it to supply and transport crusaders to the Holy Land. Many Amalfitan knights distinguished themselves during these campaigns, further enhancing the city's prestige.
Amalfi's decline began in the late 11th century, exacerbated by the Norman conquest in 1137. The city was sacked and incorporated into the Kingdom of Sicily. Despite this, Amalfi maintained a degree of autonomy and continued to thrive as a trading center, albeit not at the same level of dominance it once enjoyed.
Lemons have been cultivated in Amalfi since the 10th century, integral to the region's agriculture and cuisine. The 'sfusato amalfitano,' a unique variety, is renowned for its aromatic zest and sweet flavor. Lemon cultivation shaped the terraced landscape and contributed to the local economy, with products like Limoncello becoming iconic symbols of the Amalfi Coast.
Amalfi's medieval architecture and urban layout reflect its historical importance. Narrow, winding streets, arched alleyways, and ancient stone buildings characterize the town. The Arsenal of the Maritime Republic, a medieval shipyard, showcases the city's naval prowess, while the Paper Museum highlights Amalfi's early papermaking industry, which dates back to the 13th century.
Today, Amalfi is a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting visitors worldwide. Its historical sites, stunning coastal views, and vibrant culture make it a top tourist destination. The preservation of its historical buildings and traditions ensures that visitors can experience the rich history and culture that define Amalfi.