The 8 things to do in Amalfi

Are you going on holiday in Italy on the Amalfi Coast? Enjoy it to make a stopover and visit Amalfi!

Amalfi gave his name to the Amalfi Coast, a jewel of the Italian landscape and ranked at UNESCO World Heritage. This small village is blotti between the steep cliffs and the Tyrrhenian Sea, all dominated by Mont Cerreto (1315 metres). Visiting Amalfi is thus discovering one of the most beautiful villages in the province of Salerno.

This small fishing village, once one of the most powerful ports in the country, is now very touristic. The houses hung on the edge of the cliff, historical monuments, Mediterranean vegetation, dazzling landscapes on the sea and culinary specialties will enchant your stay!

So, let yourself be fooled by her Dolce Vita and discover the unforgettable ones not to miss to visit Amalfi!

1. Cathedral/Duomo di Sant’Andrea

The Cathedral of Sant’Andrea or Duomo is an emblematic monument to visit in Amalfi. Its construction begins in 987 and will only end in the 12th century. It is dedicated to Saint André, the patron saint of Amalfi, sailors and fishermen. This architectural masterpiece, from the top of its imposing staircase, dominates Piazza del Duomo.

Also, its polychrome façade, in Byzantine style, dates back to the 19th century. The Baroque style interior, richly decorated, allows you to observe charming paintings, statues, shining marble, as well as a beautiful canvas representing Saint André. Visitors can also admire the campanile and the Constantinople bronze door.

And to complete the visit, admire the crypt with its relics of Saint André, the cloister of Paradise and the diocesan museum.

2. The cloister of Paradise

A must-see religious site when you visit Amalfi. To be done in addition to the diocesan cathedral and museum. The cloister of Paradise, dating from the 13th century and dominated by the Campanile, is adjacent to the cathedral. It was at the beginning the cemetery of the nobles of the city.

Also, we can still contemplate chapels and sarcophages. The white cloister is built in an oriental style and is lost in its centre by an oasis of Mediterranean plants such as palm trees and giant yuccas. Visitors will also be able to contemplate the cross arcs supported by columns.

3. The historic center and the port

The historic centre of Amalfi is a must and in particular the district of Vagliendola. Vagliendola is emblematic of the city with its old houses built above the other faces of the sea.

Amalfi is a small village with a wild charm, one of the most beautiful of the Amalfitaine Coast. In its centre, the cathedral, the cloister and the campanile dominate the Piazza del Duomo, a frenzy of life and adorned by the beautiful Sant’Andrea fountain.

This fountain represents Saint André, the Patron Saint of Amalfi, but also fishermen and sailors. Visitors will enjoy the charm of the village by strolling through the maze of alleys, stairs, arched passages and admiring the facades and balconies.

Then, the visit can continue on the port, pride of the city and testimony of the marine history, the city having been in the 10th century, the first maritime republic of the country. The port is active and ensures many trips with taxi boats. It is also the starting point for excursions in the area.

4. Beaches and nautical activities

After visiting the historic center and the main monuments, if you are looking for what to do in Amalfi to enjoy the sun and the sea here are some ideas! To sunbath and swim, take the direction of Amalfi Beach. Otherwise, in the vicinity the beach of Atrani and that of Duoglio « Lido degli artisti are also pleasant.

Besides, why not rent a boat ? This is a really nice activity, which will allow you to admire all the corners of the coast. You can also enjoy diving or excursions in the surrounding area, such as the emerald cave or other villages of the Amalfi Coast.

And if you have time, why not take a day trip to the beautiful and romantic Capri ?

5. La Torre dello Ziro

What to do in Amalfi for a panoramic view? Climb on the rocky spoon of the 15th century Torre dello Ziro! A trail leaves Pontone to reach the remains of this tower. Another route joins the village of Atrani. From the tower you can admire the panoramic view of the Gulf of Salerno and the surrounding area.

For the historical context, this tower was a watch tower. Also, Giovanna d’Aragona, Duchesse d’Amalfi, was reportedly locked up and murdered with his children in the tower in 1510, for having had an affair with his majordome.

6. Museums

Amalfi is full of interesting museums, which allow us to better know the past of the city. Among the best ones are:

• The diocesan museum, to visit in addition to the cathedral and the cloister. In the basilica of the crucifix you can contemplate the most beautiful objects of the cathedral (relics, paintings, statues...).
• Museo della Carta or paper museum, to know everything about handmade paper. It is located in a former stationery of the 13th century and traces the glorious history of this medieval tradition. There are very old machines, still in use.
• The museum of the arsenal of the republic, located in the shipyards of the 12th century. At the time, wooden ships were built there. A visit to better know the maritime history of the Amalfi Coast and the first maritime republic of the country.
• Museum enthusiasts can also go to see the Municipal Museum (Museo Civico). A more general visit, just as friendly.

7. Ferriere & Mulini Valleys

For nature lovers nothing like a hike! To be done in Amalfi: the Ferriere valley and the Mulini valley. These two valleys lead to the village of Amalfi. Also, in the past, the water very present in these places served to mills and paper factories. The Ferriere Valley is a natural area of all beauty where you discover a wild, lush and green vegetation.

The trail passes through old mills, river, waterfalls, to reach the famous Ferriere waterfall. A hike in an enchanting setting to do absolutely! The visit can also continue with the Torre dello Ziro.

The valley of Mulini is perhaps less appreciated by hikers but remains more pleasant. The vegetation is also lush, with waterfalls, mills in ruins, lemon trees and magnificent views.

8. Culinary specialities

Visit Amalfi and Amalfitaine Coast is an invitation to taste the flavours of the region! The dishes of fish and seafood are in honour. But also pasta and especially pasta scialiatelli , pasta with mussels.

Also, most restaurants offer excellent risottos and quality local meats. For dessert, the ideal is to taste a lemon pastry, renowned in the region. Finally, to finish this good meal, nothing like the limoncello , lemon liquor and local specialty!

How do I get to Amalfi?

To go to Amalfi, several alternatives are possible.

Aircraft

The nearest airport is Naples -Capodichino about 65 kilometers. From there it is possible to rent a car to reach Amalfi. If you want to make a road trip in Italy, there are sometimes also good rates with flights low cost for Rome . However, it is further and it is necessary to count about 3h30 of road (about 280 kilometers). Also, to facilitate your search and book at the best price, help you with a comparison of flights like Ulysses You will be very useful.

Car

Possessing the vehicle allows you to be autonomous and visit the Amalfitaine Coast at your own pace. If you rent a car at the airport of Naples, you must count from 1h15 to 1h30 to reach Amalfi, depending on whether you pass through the airport E45 or A30 (65/75 km).

Bus

A bus links the Naples airport to Sorrento then from Sorrento to Amalfi. Lines also provide the connection between Amalfi and the other cities of Amalfitaine Coast. See the timetable of the SITA bus.

Bateau

Des ferry and taxi boats make the connection between the cities of the coast. For Amalfi, there is a line with Salerno, Minori, Positano, Maiori, Cetara and Capri.

Where to stay in Amalfi?

You have the possibility to take accommodation in front of the sea, in the city centre or on the outskirts and in neighbouring villages, such as Atrani and Ravello.

Amalfi is a very popular destination, its charm and its romantic side attracting visitors. Also prices are sometimes high, especially in the summer season. So a tip, book as soon as possible! One. Compare hotels you will find the best value for money. You also have the option of taking up housing Airbnb .

You're ready to visit Amalfi. Good trip!