Much like last week (Venice), this week's article features some good and some not so good. The Amalfi Coast is pretty much always near the top of clients Italy wish lists, so three of the team headed there a couple of weeks ago to really investigate the destination and we have some interesting new recommendations. This 30-mile stretch of coastline is absolutely stunning, but navigating it is interesting to say the least.
Tip #1: NEVER self-drive as the poor driver will have to focus so fiercely on the multitude of tight hairpin bends that they will never be able to enjoy the views.
Tip #2: to counteract the difficulty driving and sheer volume of slow moving traffic, at least a half day private boat trip is strongly recommended. You will see the whole coastline at its best.
Read on for some perhaps surprising conclusions in this weeks Top 5.
Sorrento
As you head south from Naples, Sorrento is the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Perched on cliffs above the Bay of Naples, the town enchants with its sweeping coastal views, lemon groves, and historic charm. Cobbled streets lead to centuries-old architecture, vibrant piazzas, and cafes serving lots of limoncello. It is crowded with tourists but not extremely so, and it is large enough that there are areas where it is perfectly possible to find some quiet.
It also has the best value accommodation in the area, so is a good option for those on a slightly tighter budget than the opulent hotels that are found further south.
We loved our stay at Hotel Mediterraneo, and their rooftop bar and dining area provides views that will never be forgotten. Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria is also a wonderful option.
Positano
Truth in travel alert!
The best photos of Positano are taken from outside the town or from down on the beach, not actually in town. However as one of the most famous destinations on the coast, it is extremely busy with tourists between 9:30am and 5:30 pm, so much so that it is hard to navigate the narrow streets and alley ways. Because of this we do not recommend staying in Positano unless you are happy with relaxing in your hotel during the day enjoying the undoubtedly spectacular views, and then emerging in the late afternoon as the crowds disperse. As you can see from the photos above with Kendall (it was her birthday!), by heading to the far end of the beach there is a great restaurant with views back to the town spread across the steep slopes.
Capri
Capri is synonymous with luxury, hosting high-end hotels, designer shops, and fine dining establishments. It has long been a retreat for the rich and famous, adding to its allure. It's also a haven for artists, writers, and poets who have been inspired by its natural beauty and atmosphere. Art galleries and cultural events are plentiful, particularly in the summer months. That said, and similarly to Positano, it is swamped with ferry loads of tourists during the season of April to early November. As long as you know to clear out of the port area as soon as you can, preferably on an organized private tour, then the crowds will not bother you.
And again, we recommend a boat tour as we did, to see the island from the sea in relative calm, although it was a little too breezy on our visit for the famous Blue Grotto to be open.
Ravello
For myself, Kendall and Sara, Ravello was the absolute highlight of the whole coast.
The small town is perched high above Italy's Amalfi Coast, and totally enchants with its breathtaking views of the sea, lush terraced gardens, and historic villas. Its quiet charm, far from the busier coastal towns, offers a truly serene escape. Ravello's cultural richness, including classical music festivals at Villa Rufolo, makes it a dreamy haven for art, nature, and tranquility. Honestly, there could not have been a stronger contrast than between Ravello and our final destination below!
This is also home to the beautiful Caruso, a Belmond property, where we were enchanted on our site inspection. Ask us for more photos! The property is a restored 11th-century palace, boasting stunning views of the Amalfi Coast, lush gardens, an infinity pool, and elegant rooms. Known for its refined service and timeless charm, it offers a perfect blend of history, beauty, and absolute tranquility.
Amalfi
Another truth in travel alert!
While Amalfi is undoubtedly beautiful, we found it overwhelmingly crowded, which really took away from the experience. The sheer number of tourists made it difficult to enjoy the scenery and atmosphere, and we felt like it lacked the charm the three of us were hoping for. The issue is compounded by the fact there is just one main steet going back from the harbor and everyone is funneled up that same channel. Again this usually occurs between 9:30am and 5:30pm roughly, so outside of those hours it would be a whole different and much more enjoyable ballgame.
It is also possible to hide away in a few wonderful hotels, Hotel Santa Caterina (below) being our top pick.
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Hi, I'm John, and I'm told I have a cool accent. I absolutely love travel and I am proud to have built a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide a bespoke service, imagining and creating itineraries for independent minded families and groups.
