There are few other places in the world that conserve the charm of the Amalfi Coast. Romantic, poetic and colorful, the "Costiera" is one of the most popular tourist destinations for Italian and foreign tourists, who crowd its streets at any time of the year. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997 and includes thirteen localities, which are Amalfi, Atrani, Praiano, Ravello, Maiori, Minori, Vietri on Sea, Positano, Scala, Tramonti, Furore, Cetara and Conca dei Marini.
Once there, it is difficult to choose which villages you should visit first during your tour, especially if it doesn't last more than a few days. Also, you must consider that the "Amalfitana" road connecting all the villages is very busy in high-season periods such as summer. It is not easy to park you car either: parking lots are few, difficult to reach and they can cost up to € 3/hour. This is why planning your itinerary to perfection is what can make the difference during your holiday, which can turn it from a nightmare to a beautiful daydream.
We suggest a list of five beautiful views you absolutely need to see, as they will surely leave you breathless. You do not need to stop in each town getting out of your car to wander in some unknown village streets, because finding the right places to capture your dreamy pictures will be enough to make your trip memorable.
1- Ravello
Located 365 meters above the sea level, Ravello is the highest town of the whole Coast. Perched on a cliff overlooking the entire gulf, it offers a breathtaking view of Maiori, Minori and Salerno. The sea is 20 minutes away by car, but it can also be reached by foot taking one of the splendid pedestrian streets with steep staircases connecting Ravello to the beach of Minori, which also offer some breathtaking views. The most famous view can be seen from the garden of Villa Rufolo, a splendid park overlooking the bell tower of the cathedral of Ravello and the entire Gulf of Salerno. In fact, what really distinguishes Ravello from all the other towns are not its monuments, but its stunning panorama. No other place offers such views!
2- Positano
This suggestive village separates the Amalfi Coast from the Sorrento Peninsula. The "vertical city" is where you can enjoy some shopping in the lovely stores selling precious linen clothes. The main square and the magnificent church located near the beach can be reached getting down the typical narrow streets connecting the upper part of the city to the beach. A visit to the village of Positano is a wonderful experience, but can also be very tiring. Therefore, you can also choose to just stop for a few minutes on the sides of the road coming from Conca dei Marini to appreciate a magnificent panorama, which will nevertheless give you some splendid emotions.
3- Fiordo di Furore
The deep rocky inlet that takes the name of "Fjord of Furore" is a real natural wonder. An old arched bridge stands over a small beach overlooking a natural pool, which makes the view even more magical. Unfortunately, the beach is no longer reachable on foot, because a fire ruined the stone staircase. However, those who choose to take a boat trip can still admire it from a beautiful point of view!
4- Villa Comunale in Vietri sul Mare
Vietri sul Mare is the first town of the Amalfi Coast and it can be easily reached from Salerno. Its charm is enhanced by the wonderful glazed ceramics that adorn walls and streets, which are the symbol of the ancient craft tradition that distinguishes this center. In fact, the narrow streets of Vietri present dozens of local shops selling dishes, souvenirs and other gift ideas in ceramics that can be offered to friends and relatives. The most beautiful glimpse of Vietri is in "Villa Comunale", a large park with colorful decorations looking like Gaudì's masterpieces in Barcelona. The stairway covered with brightly-colored pieces of ceramic snaking above the sea offers a very special view to all its visitors.
5- Amalfi's Dome
The Costiera takes its name from the town of Amalfi, the ancient Maritime Republic that still conserves a stunning look. The main square is a place you must see: bars, typical restaurants, pottery shops and historic hotels surround the famous steps of the Cathedral of Amalfi, a pearl of Romanesque architecture with a unique Arab taste. The polychrome decoration, the gilded stuccoes and the pointed arches embellish its majestic façade, which always amazes those who admire it from below.
Are you looking for a holiday rental? Choose one of our Villas on the Amalfi Coastline!
© Alice Pilastri
