From the Amalfi Coast to Capri: a holiday in Italy itinerary
Discover the essence of La Dolce Vita
Amidst the well-trodden towns of Positano and Capri, there exists a treasure trove of hidden gems — rare, undiscovered spots that few travellers even know about.
Legend even has it, the Siren Parthenope, a Greek mythological figure, was said to have lived on the island of Megaride, which later became the site of the city of Naples. Parthenope was a beautiful maiden who was so enamoured by the songs of the Sirens that she decided to become one herself! She dramatically cast herself into the sea, where she was transformed into a Siren and began to sing the most enchanting songs to lure sailors to their doom. The name of the city of Amalfi is derived from her name, as the sailors of Amalfi were believed to have been the first to hear her songs. The legend of the Siren Parthenope is often depicted in art and literature, and it continues to be an important part of the cultural heritage of the Amalfi Coast.
Like the siren, travellers long and far has come to the Amalfi Coast since the 19th century. But now, shared as insider tips from our editors who are on the ground in Italy, we’ll explore some of the best-kept secrets of the Amalfi Coast, from secluded beaches like Fiordo Di Furore to remote villages and hidden hiking trails - getting you off of the typical tourist trail. Get set to discover the other side of the Amalfi Coast - one where you can tuck away from the crowds and feel like a true local. Curious? Follow me on Instagram and YouTube for more adventures!
1. Emerald oasis of Bagni della regina Giovanna
The Bagni della Regina Giovanna (Baths of Queen Joanna) are a series of small coastal pools located along the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. The pools are situated in a secluded, natural cove and are surrounded by lush vegetation, including olive trees and Mediterranean scrub - taking you into a world of enriching beauty. But don’t worry, if you embark on a Vespa Trip with Travelbase, your provided GPS will tell you the exact location of this Amalfi gem. The pools are fed by natural springs and are known for their lucid, emerald-green water, which gives the area its nickname "Emerald Oasis."
The baths have a long history, dating back to Roman times when they were used as a spa and recreational area. They were later used by the Bourbon Kings of Naples, including Queen Joanna, who gave the baths their name. In the 20th century, the baths, unfortunately, fell into disrepair, but were restored to glory and re-opened to the public in the 1980s. The Bagni della Regina Giovanna are a local’s favourite spot for swimming and sunbathing, and are considered one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on the Amalfi Coast.
The major bonus? Most travellers don’t even know about this spot, since they stick to the main beaches like on Positano. Yet, you can easily get here by hopping on our Vespa, as part of Travelbase Vespa trips in the Amalfi Coast, to then uncover this authentic, hidden gem.
2. Vietri sul Mare
This is one of my favourite spots on the Amalfi Coast - and one that many travellers just don’t know about, or is easily overlooked. Vietri sul Mare is a charming coastal town with colourful houses and buildings cascading down the hillside to the sea. The town is also famous for its ceramics (which you’ll inescapably see whichever corner you turn), which have been produced there for centuries.
One of the unique things that make Vietri sul Mare special is its ceramic tradition, which dates back to the Roman period. The town is home to a number of ceramic workshops and factories where visitors can see the artisans at work and purchase locally made ceramics. The ceramics of Vietri sul Mare are known for their bright colours, intricate patterns, and traditional designs.
Another thing that makes Vietri sul Mare oh so adorable is the town's architecture, which is a mix of different styles that includes a touch of Baroque, a highlight of the Renaissance, and its Moorish influences. The town's main square, Piazza Umberto I, is a great place to start exploring, since everything spawns out of it - from multi-generational restaurants to quaint cafes. The town's main church, the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Pietà is also worth a visit, with its impressive Baroque architecture and beautiful frescoes. Vietri sul Mare also has a great location, just a short drive from other famous destinations like Amalfi, Ravello and Positano. It’s actually one of the first stops you can make when you depart from Salerno, but perhaps because of this, many people look past it - leaving it to be a “right under your nose” charm.
Where to Stay
Budget-friendly - Dimora Antica
Saving the bank doesn’t mean you’ll have to save on space! In this accommodation, you’ll get a spacious room on the cheap.
Mid-range - B&B Vietri Centro 2
Only 250 metres from the beach, you can walk there barefoot and back to your suite like it’s your backyard!
Alternative Mid-range - Bellavista Costa d'Amalfi
A humble luxury on the coast with breakfast included
3. Villaggio Monte Faito
Villaggio Monte Faito is a hidden gem nestled on the lush slopes of Monte Faito on the Amalfi Coast. It's a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of what makes southern Italy just so unique. While it can be a bit hard to find, you can easily cruise there yourself on Travelbase’s Vespa trip.
The village is a hiker's paradise, with well-marked trails that lead you through the Mediterranean vegetation that leads you to breathtaking panoramic views of the coast and sea. You'll feel like you're on top of the world as you explore the mountain's scenic beauty and discover its rich cultural and historical heritage! But that's not all up here, the village also boasts a well-restored castle that offers a glimpse into what it was like back in Medieval times. Standing on the castle's ramparts and taking in the stunning views of the craggy coast and shimmering sea will be a moment you'll never forget.
An added magic of Villaggio Monte Faito is in its people. Since the village is small and traditional, with a population of only a few hundred locals, you'll find small guesthouses and agritourism where you can experience the local way of life. Zip around here on your Vespa with Travelbase, and once you’re done exploring, you can cruise onwards to the rest of the Amalfi Coast!
4. Climb to the top of Castello di Arechi in Salerno
Climbing to the top of the Castello di Arechi in Salerno is like taking a step back in time and embarking on an epic adventure! This ancient castle was built in the 8th century and still sits majestically on a hilltop overlooking the city of Salerno, offering a bird's eye view of the surrounding rugged coast.
As you start your climb, you'll feel like you're in a movie, with the castle's imposing walls and towers looming ahead. It’s hard not to feel the excitement and thrill of conquering this ancient fortress as you make your way up the winding path as many have done for centuries before you. Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Salerno and the coast! Inside the Castello di Arechi in Salerno, you can explore the ancient ruins, which include the keep and the chapel, giving you a glimpse into what life could have been like for the castle's inhabitants. Centuries. In the picture above, you can see the historical building peering over all of Salerno.
5. Fiordo Di Furore
Did you know that the Amalfi Coast has its own version of a fjord? Yep you don’t have to go all the way up north to Norway to experience one of nature’s grandest creations. Fiordo di Furore is a deep and narrow fjord located in this southern cranny of the Amalfi Coast. The fjord is dotted with small fishing villages, and its waters are clear and teeming with marine life - so if you want, you can bring your snorkel gear when you boat nearby!
Fiordo di Furore is best known for its stunning natural beauty and sheltered inlets, making it a very much loved spot by the locals for kayaking and swimming. The fjord also offers a scenic backdrop for activities like rock climbing, all the way the rest of the world continues on below you. Here, the main beach, Spiagga della Regina beach, is where you can spend time at too, and peer out onto the stone bridge across the fjord that joins the cliff sides together for drivers.
It’s an easy spot to miss when people are driving across the Amalfi Coast, especially when they’re focusing on the winding, tail-bending roads. But all the way down below within the fjord, it feels like that bustle is miles away - as you leisurely soak up the magic of this quieter part of the coast.
6. Cetara
With chipped pastel painted houses cascading down to the sea, and a quaint harbour filled with fishing boats, Cetara is a seaside village on the Amalfi Coast that will transport you to a world of Mediterranean charm. This small fishing village is known for its almost secluded setting and its delicious cuisine, based on the freshest fish caught by local fishermen. If you’re a seafood lover, don’t miss out on exploring Cetara! Whichever catch of the day the fishermen get, that’s what lunch and dinner will be at the local restaurants here - a testament to how fresh the seafood is.
As you wander through the narrow streets of Cetara, you'll feel like you're in a postcard of what explorers dreamt the Amalfi Coast would be. Flower-filled balconies brim from the houses, and fishing boats bob in the harbour. Cetara has a laid-back, friendly atmosphere, and locals are always happy to chat and share their stories, which gives Cetara a stand-out vibe from the rest of too glitzy Amalfi.
As I mentioned, one of the biggest draws to Cetara is its seafood. The village is known for its anchovies, and the local speciality is"colatura di alici, a traditional fish sauce made from anchovies. You can visit one of the local restaurants, and taste the delicious seafood dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients - like the use of lemons plucked from the nearby groves. Cetara is also a great place for swimming and sunbathing, with a beautiful beach and the ever-soothing waters from the coast. Swimming the sea followed by freshly caught dinner? Now that’s what I call a getaway.
Where to Stay
Budget-friendly - LA CASETTA DI MARY
Quaint and tucked away in the heart of everything, this place is a steal!
Mid-range - A Regina b&b Cetara
Right off the main street with breakfast included, you’ll be set for your beach holiday here.
Superbly decorated room in an Annex that makes for a plush stay.
7. Hike the Valle Delle Ferriere
The Amalfi Coast isn’t just pristine beaches and scrumptious bites, you can get your thrill on by hiking the cliff sides. With hiking in the Valle Delle Ferriere near Amalfi you’ll be in for a secret world that opens up to lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and the beautiful ruins of an old paper mill… All things that aren’t the first to come to mind for travellers, making this a true hidden gem.
The hike itself is an adventure, as you cross over bridges and walk alongside a peaceful stream from the valley. The trail is not too challenging, but it definitely makes for a great way to sweat off all of the pasta, and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area.
As you make your way deeper into the valley, you'll come across the ruins of an old paper mill. This is where you can go to explore the ruins, taking in the history and imagining what it was like to work in this mill centuries ago.
One of my big highlights of the hike is reaching the final destination, the waterfall of Valle Delle Ferriere. Most of the time, you’ll have the whole space to yourself - so you can go and stand in front of the waterfall, feel the mist on your face and the sound of the water cascading down. It's truly a magical experience.
8. Drive down the coastline on a Vespa
The Amalfi coastline is also known for its winding roads that hug the rugged cliff sides, and driving a Vespa on these roads is an epic adventure. This is where you can lean into the curves, feeling the rush of the wind and the thrill of the ride on your two-wheel friend. The best part of it? If you do the Vespa Trip with Travelbase, everything is taken care of - from your GPS, your Vespa, to your hotels.
As you hop on your Vespa and hit the road, you'll feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, reminiscent of all the legendary Italian movie stars and iconography that has left its mark on our image of Italy. One of our favourite things about driving a Vespa on the Amalfi Coast is the freedom to stop wherever you want and explore the charming villages and towns along any pitstop. You can grab a bite of tiramisu in Amalfi town for one hour, and then cruise off to the shores of Positano the next. With Travelbase Vespa trip on the Amalfi Coast, the choice is yours!
Travelbase Vespa trip is a fun and freeing way to explore the Amalfi Coast. If you’re interested in the two-wheel adventure, check out the dates and itinerary here.
9. Go snorkelling from a traditional Amalfitan Gozzo boat
Snorkeling from a traditional Amalfitan Gozzo boat is like taking a dip into a colourful underwater wonderland - it’s simply a mesmerising experience. The Amalfi Coast is known for its clear sea waters and rich marine life, so snorkelling from a Gozzo boat is the best way to experience it.
The history of the Gozzo boats can be traced back to the ancient maritime traditions of the Amalfi Coast, where they were used for fishing and transportation. The boats were built by local artisans using traditional methods and materials, such as local wood and iron nails. The boats are hand-crafted, and each one is unique, reflecting the skill and craftsmanship of the builder. Today the Gozzo boats are considered a symbol of the Amalfi Coast, and they are part of the local culture, tradition and heritage.They are considered an important element of the local economy and tourism, and many of the boats are passed down from generation to generation. Now, they’re still in use, mainly for activities such as snorkelling, diving, and boat tours.
So as you hop on a traditional wooden Gozzo boat, you'll be in for an adventure as the Captain steers it out into the sea. Once you reach the snorkelling spot, you'll be amazed by the variety of marine life you'll encounter. From different schools of fish, exploring the coral reefs, and maybe even encountering some octopus! The clear waters make it easy to see the vibrant colours of the sea creatures and plants, which will give you a different perspective of Amalfi. You can book the activity for a day, including the boat and snorkelling gear, here.
10. Maiori
Welcome to Maiori, a petite hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast that will leave you enchanted and inspired! Since Roman times, this coastal town boasts the longest beach on the Amalfi Coast. Yep, it’s a long unbroken stretch that sunbathers and beach lovers find irresistible, alongside the shimmering blue sea.
Fun fact: The beach of Maiori is over 1 kilometre long, and it's called "Spiaggia Grande" (big beach).
This slice of the Amalfi Coast truly lives up to what this region is all about: sun-soaked leisure with sea salt amongst the fantastic hills.
Another thing that makes Maiori special is its rich history. The town is home to several historic churches, including the Church of Santa Maria a Mare, which dates back to the 12th century and features beautiful frescoes and an impressive bell tower. Not many travellers aside from locals know, but the church of Santa Maria a Mare is one of the most important religious buildings of the Amalfi Coast, and it's dedicated to the patron saint of the town, Santa Maria a Mare. There’s also the Norman Tower, which you can see from the sea peering over Maiori. It was actually built all the way back in 1563 as a watchtower to protect the town from any seafaring pirates! Now, a romantic restaurant is hosted in the tower, making it a great spot for a sunset dinner… hint, hint.
Where to Stay
Budget-friendly - Residence Due Torri
Here, you can get a spacious apartment with a fully equipped kitchenette and a balcony for your holiday.
Situated right in the historic centre of Maiori with a patio and bungalow for each room.
Super chic rooms with a balcony that offers sweeping sea views of the coast.
11. Walk the Path of the Gods hike
During my first trip to the Amalfi, hiking the Path of the Gods is still, to this day, one of the most memorable parts of the region for me! This piece of the coast is like taking a journey through a mythical storybook - one that has been told by Romans, and Greeks and is as seductive as the name of the trek itself. The Path of the Gods is a scenic hiking trail with constant breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast, as you walk along the cliffside and see little vineyards and towns dotting the horizon before you.
If you want a fun local to guide you through the Path of the Gods, you can always book the trek here. As you start your hike, the trail isn’t too challenging, and it's perfect for people who love nature and want to explore the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast, especially on a clear day. My favourite part of the hike is the panoramic viewing spots that you can have a breather at, taking in the views of the coast and feeling like you're on top of the world. The trail was named after the Greek gods, as the views are so spectacular that it is said that only the gods could have created such a beautiful landscape… And honestly, one can definitely believe that when you take in such sights of the Amalfi Coast from here. Imagine yourself walking on the same path that the ancient Greeks believed the gods walked, now, that’s a good story.
The Path of the Gods hike starts and ends in the town of Bomerano, specifically, the trailhead for the Path of the Gods is located near the small village of Agerola, which is about a 20-minute drive from Bomerano. This trail is a well-marked path that is easy to follow, and it offers a variety of different routes that can be taken, the most common is from Bomerano to Nocelle, where you can finish your hike.
12. See Tramonti's old town
Another hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast awaiting to be discovered is the old town of Tramonti. This mountain outpost of a town is located in the heart of the Amalfi Coast and is known for its unique setting within the olive trees, terraced vegetation and streams.
Since the town is nestled in the hills above the coast, it's easy to take in the awe-inspiring views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. In Tramonti, you can wander through the narrow streets of the old town, and truly feel like you basically have the town to yourself - since most people often stick to Positano, Sorrento, Capri and Amalfi town.
You can explore the ancient churches, including the Church of Santa Maria della Libera, which dates back to the 12th century, and the church of San Giovanni Battista, which dates back to the 14th century. While exploring Tramonti, don’t skip out on having a bite of its delicious cuisine. The town is known for its traditional dishes, such as "scialatielli ai frutti di mare" which is a type of pasta with seafood, and "pizza alla tramontina" which is a pizza with local ingredients sourced from the nearby gardens.
13. Take in the coast’s fragrant citrus scent on the Path of Lemons
Hiking through the Path of Lemons in Italy is like taking a stroll through a citrus paradise! This scenic hiking trail is known for the abundance of lemon trees that line the trail. Now, these lemons aren’t your usual grocery store lemons - some of them are as big as the size of a baby’s head! Others come in different shapes than the ones we know of, but all are super fresh.
As you start your hike, you’ll already be surrounded by the sweet smell of citrus and the sound of birds singing since this a quieter part of the Amalfi Coast. The trail is not too challenging, and it's perfect for want to stretch their legs and explore the natural iconic beauty of this area. You can book this trek here with a guide that will show you the way, along with fun anecdotes about the Path of Lemons.
The abundance of lemon trees that line the trail is truly a special sight to see. You can walk under the canopy of lemon trees, and even pick a lemon from a tree! Of course, they’re so fresh that you can take a bite into the lemon, just for a wee taste, even if sour - but that hit of citrus is what sets these lemons apart from the ones we usually know of. A fun fact: Lemon trees have a long history in this region and have been grown for centuries, they were even used as currency in the past!
The Path of Lemons trail is also known as the "Path of Love" as it's a romantic spot for couples to take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful views and the sweet smell of the lemons.
14. Ravello
Many people go to the towns on the Amalfi Coast where the sea touches its shores, but if you don’t look up then you’ll be missing out! Ravello, perched way up high above the sea is an understated star of the Amalfi Coast. Since Ravello is so high up, you can take strolls along the “balcony” of the town, where you’ll see views of the coast and the Mediterranean stretch out before you. Don’t go to the Amalfi Coast without carving out time for Ravello - as a stroll through this town exudes all the best things that make the Amalfi so magical: a touch of class through the well-trimmed gardens, sweeping views and beauty that would rival the Renaissance.
While exploring Ravello, you’ll learn that this town has a long history of culture and art, and it was a favourite destination of famous personalities such as Virginia Woolf, Greta Garbo and D.H. Lawrence. You can explore the ancient churches, including the Cathedral of San Pantaleone, which dates back to the 11th century, and the church of Santa Maria a Gradillo, which dates back to the 12th century. The town is also known for its beautiful gardens, such as the famous Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, where you can take a stroll and enjoy the beauty of the Mediterranean landscape amongst grand Greek statues.
Where to Stay
Budget-friendly - A casa di Pissi - apartment
A classic home in the Amalfi Coast, you’ll feel like a true local here.
Mid-range - Il Rifugio del Poeta
Overlook a tranquil slice of the Amalfi Coast on your own private balcony.
This true luxury boutique hotel is right in the heart of the cultural, artistic town.
15. Visit a farmhouse for a cooking class
Now picture this: the setting is an idyllic farmhouse nestled deep in the lemon groves and olive trees of the Amalfi Coast. Every month, the farmhouse hold a traditional cooking class, where you can get together with the locals to learn how to prepare the most delicious Amalfitian dishes, with ingredients that had been hand-picked right there on the farm.
This is actually how the cooking class starts - with a tour of one of the classic terraced gardens, an enduring example of the Amalfi Coast's sustainability and environmental preservation. This is where you’ll take quite a scenic stroll past the lemon, olive, and vineyard groves - and while you’re there, you'll learn a lot about the role each of those crucial trees plays in the Mediterranean diet. Your local guide will also tell you how the Amalfi Coast’s world-famous Limoncello, olive oil, and wine are made.
Then you’ll continue your journey to the vegetable garden, and after donning gloves and an adorable wicker basket, you’ll pick the freshest seasonal veggies and fragrant herbs to utilise in the making of the local delicacies throughout the cooking lesson. Donning the aprons is when you’ll be ready to get down to business and discover the secrets of producing delicious traditional Amalfitian meals. This cooking class is a jovial time, as you can take sips of your wine throughout making a 4-course meal. Now, this is how one can truly experience the Amalfi Coast like a local!
16. Ravello – Atrani Walk
The Ravello-Atrani-Amalfi walk is a picturesque trek that takes you through the beautiful coastal towns of Ravello, Atrani, and Amalfi, some of the main stars of the Amalfi Coast itself. The trek is a moderate hike where you can take in beautiful views of the Mediterranean sea along with the charming coastal towns twinkling along the cliffsides.
It's worth mentioning that the 3.4-kilometre trail is well marked and maintained, but definitely wear proper footwear and bring enough water and snacks. During the summers, there isn’t as much shade, so stay hydrated as much as you can! The trail can be challenging in some parts, and you should be prepared for steep inclines and stairs.
The Ravello-Atrani-Amalfi walk starts in the town of Ravello, specifically in the central Piazza Duomo, then from there, you can follow the signs and the trail markers that will guide you through the oh-so-whimsical tree-lined streets of Ravello and Atrani. The trail passes through the historic centre of Ravello and Atrani, and then heads down to the sea level where the town of Amalfi is located. The trail ends in the town centre of Amalfi, specifically the majestic Piazza Duomo, where you can then cap off your adventure with some gelato!
17. Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi
Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi is situated on a hilltop between the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno, giving it its name, "Sant'Agata on the Two Gulfs." The pocket-size town is known for its panoramic views of the coast and its tranquil atmosphere amongst the lemon groves.
One of the unique things that makes Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi special is its location on a hilltop, where you can look out into the seemingly never-ending views of the surrounding landscape. The town is also home to several churches, including the Church of Sant'Agata, which dates back to the 18th century and features a beautiful Baroque-style facade.
On Travelbase’s Vespa Trip, you can easily drive yourself to this hidden gem, and hop off the ride to explore at your own pace.
While Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi is small size, it makes up for it in being a great destination for those looking to escape the crowds of larger towns on the Amalfi Coast - especially if you’re on this coast during high season. In contrast, you’ll feel like you actually have a slice of the Amalfi all to yourself. But, if you want an easy trip to those popular places like Positano and Sorrento, Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi is also a great base since you can take a bus or easily drive there.
