Top 10 Must-Do Activities on Italy’s Amalfi Coast
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There are few places in the world that embody Mediterranean beauty quite like Italy’s Amalfi Coast. With its cascading pastel towns, turquoise waters, lemon-scented air, and cliffside vistas, it’s no wonder this UNESCO World Heritage Site draws travelers from across the globe. According to the Italian National Institute of Tourism, the Amalfi Coast welcomed over five million visitors in 2024—many seeking that perfect mix of adventure, culture, and seaside serenity.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to rediscover its charm, the Amalfi Coast offers countless ways to immerse yourself in its coastal magic. From sailing the sapphire seas to wandering ancient footpaths, each activity unlocks a new layer of the region’s vibrant soul. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top 10 must-do activities that every traveler should experience on Italy’s Amalfi Coast in 2025. Get ready for sweeping views, unforgettable flavors, and a true taste of la dolce vita.
Drive the Scenic Amalfi Coast Road (SS163)
The Amalfi Drive (Strada Statale 163) is arguably one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the world. Snaking along cliffs and offering jaw-dropping views at every turn, it’s a rite of passage for anyone visiting the region.
What to Expect on the Drive:
| Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Coastal Panoramas | Uninterrupted views of sea and cliff towns |
| Iconic Stops | Positano, Amalfi, Ravello |
| Driving Tips | Narrow lanes—rent a small car or hire a driver |
Plan for photo stops, especially near Praiano and Furore, where you’ll find dramatic cliff drops and scenic overlooks. For a relaxed experience, consider hiring a local driver who knows the roads—and the viewpoints—by heart.
Take a Boat Tour to Explore the Coast by Sea
While driving is breathtaking, seeing the Amalfi Coast from the water provides a whole new perspective. Boat tours offer a relaxing yet immersive way to discover secluded coves and dramatic cliffs.
Popular Boat Tour Options:
| Tour Type | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Private Yacht Charter | Luxury experience with custom itineraries |
| Small Group Day Cruise | Visits to Positano, Amalfi, Capri |
| Grotto & Cave Tours | Explore sea caves like Grotta dello Smeraldo |
Most tours depart from Positano, Amalfi, or Sorrento. A boat trip to the island of Capri is particularly popular, offering stunning views of the Faraglioni rock formations and the Blue Grotto.
Visit the Cliffside Town of Positano
No trip to the Amalfi Coast is complete without a visit to Positano. Known for its vertical streets, pastel buildings, and cinematic charm, Positano is the poster child of the coast.
Top Experiences in Positano:
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Stroll Via dei Mulini | Boutique shopping and colorful ceramic stores |
| Spiaggia Grande | Iconic beach with restaurants and views |
| Hike to Montepertuso | Scenic path leading to panoramic village |
Plan to arrive early to beat the crowds and catch the best morning light. Grab a cappuccino and pastry at a cliffside café before exploring the town’s winding alleyways. For lunch, head to Da Adolfo (accessible by boat) for seafood with your toes in the sand.
Positano is also a great base for day trips to nearby villages or hiking trails, and it truly shines at sunset when the entire town seems to glow in golden light.
Hike the Path of the Gods (Il Sentiero degli Dei)
For nature lovers and photography buffs, the Path of the Gods is a dream. This legendary hiking trail links Bomerano (in Agerola) with Nocelle (above Positano) and delivers some of the most awe-inspiring views in Italy.
Hiking Details:
| Distance | 7.8 kilometers (approx. 2.5–3 hours) | | Difficulty | Moderate – some elevation, uneven paths | | Best Time to Go | Early morning or late afternoon |
Pack water, wear proper shoes, and bring your camera. The path offers sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Lattari Mountains, plus plenty of wildflowers and lemon groves along the way.
Taste Local Flavors in Amalfi Town
Amalfi is more than just a scenic stop—it’s a historical and culinary gem. This town was once a maritime powerhouse and is now a place to soak in medieval charm and savor authentic Southern Italian cuisine.
What to Try in Amalfi:
| Must-Taste Items | Description |
|---|---|
| Limoncello | Made from Amalfi lemons, best served chilled |
| Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare | Local pasta with fresh seafood |
| Sfogliatella | Flaky pastry filled with ricotta cream |
Be sure to visit the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi), a stunning structure blending Arab-Norman, Gothic, and Baroque styles. Stop by local delis and bakeries to stock up on edible souvenirs.
Swim in the Hidden Fjord of Furore
Furore is one of Italy’s smallest and most picturesque towns, known for its dramatic fjord (Fiordo di Furore). This narrow cove carved into the cliffs feels like a secret escape.
What to Know Before Visiting:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hidden Beach | Accessible via stone steps, small and peaceful |
| Iconic Bridge View | Great photo spot from SS163 road above |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays in the morning to avoid crowds |
The water is crystal clear, and the high cliffs provide shade during hot afternoons. It’s a great spot for swimming, photography, or just enjoying the surreal coastal scenery.
Wander the Gardens of Ravello
Ravello is perched high above the coast and offers a quieter, more refined escape from the seaside bustle. The town is known for its terraced gardens, villas, and classical music festivals.
Must-See Gardens:
| Villa | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Villa Rufolo | Moorish architecture and sea-view gardens |
| Villa Cimbrone | The Terrace of Infinity overlooking the sea |
Ravello’s charm lies in its peaceful pace and elevated position. It’s also a wonderful place to enjoy a glass of wine while looking out over endless sea and sky.
Take a Day Trip to the Island of Capri
Capri offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and upscale charm. From Amalfi or Positano, ferries can whisk you away to the island in under an hour.
Capri Day Trip Highlights:
| Must-Do | Details |
|---|---|
| Blue Grotto | Sea cave with glowing blue water |
| Piazzetta di Capri | Chic square with cafés and boutiques |
| Monte Solaro | Highest point on the island, panoramic views |
Capri is ideal for sun-soaked luxury and seaside adventure. For an off-the-beaten-path experience, visit Anacapri and take the chairlift up Monte Solaro for jaw-dropping scenery.
Conclusion
The Amalfi Coast is more than a destination—it’s an experience steeped in sunlight, salt air, and soul. Whether you’re driving the cliffside roads, sailing through grottos, hiking ancient trails, or sipping limoncello beneath a lemon tree, each activity brings you closer to the heart of this stunning coastal gem. These top 10 must-do experiences on Italy’s Amalfi Coast capture the region’s essence—equal parts exhilarating and serene. Let the rhythm of the sea and the beauty of the cliffs guide your journey, and you’ll leave with memories as timeless as the coast itself.