Amalfi Holidays

Amalfi is one of the classic bases on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, set between steep limestone hills and the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is smaller and more compact than some visitors expect, with a lively harbour, a historic centre of narrow lanes and a dramatic setting that makes it easy to understand why the coast is so well known.

The heart of the town is Piazza del Duomo, where cafés and restaurants sit beneath the impressive Amalfi Cathedral. Its striped façade and grand steps are one of the resort’s most recognisable sights, and the surrounding streets are good for a gentle wander, with small shops selling ceramics, paper goods and lemon-based specialities. Amalfi has a long maritime history, and the town’s Paper Museum and old arsenal offer a quieter look at its past away from the waterfront.

Beach time is possible, though this is not a wide-sandy-beach destination. Amalfi’s main beach, Marina Grande, is a small shingle and pebble beach close to the harbour, with beach clubs and public areas. There are also smaller coves nearby, and the neighbouring village of Atrani can be reached on foot for a change of scene. Sea shoes can be useful, as the shoreline is typically pebbly.

Eating out is a major part of a holiday in Amalfi. Menus often feature fresh seafood, pasta, local lemons, pastries and Campania wines. You’ll find everything from informal pizzerias and trattorias to smarter restaurants with sea views. Evenings are generally relaxed rather than rowdy, with people lingering over dinner, strolling around the piazza or enjoying a drink by the harbour.

Amalfi is also well placed for exploring. Ferries and boat trips link it with places such as Positano, Salerno and, seasonally, Capri, while buses climb inland to Ravello, known for its gardens and views. Walkers can head into the Valle delle Ferriere, a scenic valley above the town with greenery, streams and old mill ruins. With its mix of coastal scenery, historic streets and easy day trips, Amalfi suits travellers who want an atmospheric Italian resort with plenty to see nearby.