When you’re exploring the Amalfi Coast, don’t forget to visit Amalfi town! It’s often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours, like Positano. But thanks to its charming centre and gorgeous views, Amalfi town is definitely worth at least a few hours of your itinerary.

Why you should visit Amalfi town

Surrounded by steep cliffs and the dazzling blue sea, with its picturesque white houses and magnificent cathedral…How can you resist Amalfi town? It may not be quite as breathtaking as Positano, but it’s also less touristy, and it has a beauty all of its own.

As you wander through the maze of narrow streets, and take in the ocean views, you’re bound to fall for Amalfi’s charms. It’s picture-perfect, but also feels laidback and authentic – the ideal mix.

And while the town is small, with a population of around 5,000 people, there’s plenty to do. You might even want to consider making it your base for exploring the Amalfi Coast.

Here are just a few ideas for things to do in Amalfi and the surrounding area:

Explore the town centre. Spend a lazy afternoon just pottering around the streets, and enjoy a laidback aperitivo in the piazza.

Visit the cathedral. You can’t miss the Duomo – an impressive architectural mishmash, blending Arab-Norman, Gothic and Baroque styles. The exterior is particularly striking, but make sure you go inside too, and visit the cloisters and garden.

Check out the Museo di Carta. As the name suggests, the paper museum is all about…paper. And while it may not sound like the most exciting excursion, it’s a charming little place that’s very popular with visitors.

Relax on the beach. There’s a small beach just a few minutes from the town centre. You can get a lounger and umbrella, and even go snorkelling or kayaking.

Go for scenic hikes. Visit the Valle delle Ferriere – a beautiful nature reserve that’s walking distance from Amalfi town. If you’re based in Amalfi, you could also hike along the “Path of the Gods” (Sentiero degli Dei) – take the bus to Bomerano and walk from there. The views of the Amalfi Coast are truly stunning.

Where to eat in Amalfi town

You’re guaranteed to eat well in Amalfi – tuck into some tasty seafood and summery pasta dishes, such as spaghetti with lemon. Make sure you try some fresh fish too, like the traditional pezzogna all’acqua pazza (literally “sea bream in crazy water”), prepared with tomatoes, garlic and parsley.

Here are some of our recommendations for the best restaurants in Amalfi:

• • La Caravella art gallery – A historical Michelin-star restaurant where tradition and innovation meet beautifully.
  • Il Tarì Amalfi Restaurant – A cosy restaurant in the centre of Amalfi town, which offers modern interpretations of traditional dishes, including fish, meat and pasta.
  • Da Gemma – Also located in the centre, this upscale trattoria has a terrace, and offers a range of delicious fish, meat and pasta dishes.
  • Ristorante L’Abside – This restaurant has tables in the piazza, so you can enjoy a plate of seafood pasta or some fried fish while soaking up the Amalfi atmosphere.
  • Ristorante Amalfi Cantina Miseria e Nobiltà – A 10-minute walk from the centre of Amalfi, this restaurant feels like a hidden gem. Delicious pasta dishes and live music!

How to get to Amalfi town

If you’re based in Naples, you have a couple of options for getting to Amalfi town.

Take the train to Sorrento (1 hour), then from Sorrento train station, take the bus to Amalfi town (about 1 hour 40 minutes).

Alternatively, from Naples take the train to Salerno (1 hour). From there, take the bus (1 hour 15 minutes) or the ferry (30 minutes) to Amalfi town.

Salerno train station is located close to the port, so the ferry is a fairly convenient option, and a good way to enjoy views of the coast.

Amalfi private tours

Taking public transport in Italy can be an adventure, but at times it can also be a bit of a hassle…

So, to visit Amalfi in comfort, without the stress, book an Amalfi private tour with Italian ArtVentures.

A driver will pick you up at your hotel, and take you to three of the most spectacular towns on the Amalfi Coast – Positano, Amalfi and Ravello.

In the company of a local guide, you’ll explore the streets of these beautiful little towns, and learn all about their history and culture. It’s the ideal way to visit the Amalfi Coast, and so much more relaxing than organising everything yourself!

Read more: 16 tips for planning your trip to the Amalfi Coast (Lonely Planet)