The Amalfi Coast, or Costiera Amalfitana in Italian, is a stretch of coastline on the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula of Campania (Province of Salerno). It extends from over ten villages starting from the west with Positano to Vietri sul Mare in the east, at the gate of Salerno. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 as unique example of intense Mediterranean settlements on a breathtaking landscape.
The Amalfi Coast is a true land of paradise suspended between the sky and the equally blue sea. It is characterized by its rigorous and rocky cliffs and terraces on which grow citrus fruits of all sorts. Every corner of this indescribable land is worth exploring and will leave the visitor with the desire to return.
Visiting these three representative villages is the best way to taste what the Amalfi Coast has to offer:
Amalfi is the main town of the coast and the oldest of the four Maritime Republics (Pisa Genoa, Venice, and Amalfi). This suggestive town lies on the water and surrounds the magnificent Cathedral that is located in the historic town square. Here in summer you can enjoy a delicious “gelato” or a traditional pastry sitting outside one of the numerous coffee bars. After this enjoyable stop, you can have a nice walk past the artesian shops and picturesque hollies until you reach the famous Museum of Paper Making.
From Amalfi a scenic and winding road takes you to Ravello, famous for its quiet and serene atmosphere 350 meters above the sea. It offers stunning architectural jewels and breathtaking panoramas. To get both, it is worth visiting the spectacular Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.
Positano is a fascinating settlement nicknamed the “vertical village” for the way its coloured houses are built in the rock face. Romantic and surreal is the environment of this magical town that is mainly a pedestrian area. Positano is a very exclusive resort famous for its fashion. Skilled dressmakers provide the local shops with their creations.