top of page

AMALFI COAST
TRAVEL TIPS

IMG_6733.jpeg

​

IF YOU ARE PLANNING A TRIP TO SORRENTO AND/OR AMALFI COAST, THIS LIST OF TIPS MIGHT HELP YOU FINE-TUNE YOUR VACATION.

Of course, as with anything, you do you—these are just suggestions based on my experiences and travel style.

​

Hi there, I’m Alessandro, the founder of Originals. I’m originally from Sorrento, where I lived until I was 27. Since then (many, many years ago!), I’ve made it a point to travel back to Sorrento at least once a year to visit family. My trips also extend to other parts of Southern Italy, where I visit the producers of my spirits and enjoy a bit of vacation time. Over the years, I’ve traveled solo, but more recently, I’ve been exploring Southern Italy as a family of four.

Southern Italy is truly magical, and as a result, I often get asked for travel advice. So, here’s my high-level guide to help you make the most of your trip.

 

As we all know, Southern Italy—especially the Amalfi Coast—is one of the most coveted regions on social media. However, this list isn’t about that. It’s created from a practical perspective and, at this time, remains a rough draft (which I plan to review and update periodically. By the time you read it, some tips might be slightly outdated). Feel free to email me if you have specific questions—or, even better, share tips you’ve discovered along the way!

​

PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO SOUTH ITALY

​

Should you go to Southern Italy? Where?

Should you go? The answer is obviously yes. Southern Italy (everything from Rome down) is a stunning region filled with culture, history, incredible food, and breathtaking nature.

Here are some high-level suggestions to guide your planning:

  1. The Amalfi Coast - The Amalfi Coast is gorgeous and a must-see. That said, over the years, I’ve found that traveling there as a family can be a bit less ideal than I’d hoped. Space is limited in this region, making it harder and pricier to find comfortable accommodations for four (disclaimer - I have never rented apartments or houses). While larger rental cars are available, you’ll definitely want a smaller car to navigate the narrow roads, which can make the experience feel a bit cramped. Again, definitely a must see and fantastic option for anybody, just not as comfortable as you might expect for families.

  2. Puglia - Puglia is an entire region of beauty, charm, and fun. There are countless amazing towns to visit, and although it’s becoming increasingly popular, it remains a top destination for many. If you go, make sure to stay in a Masseria (a traditional farmhouse). Feel free to reach out if you’d like recommendations for Puglia!

  3. Sicily - Sicily is arguably one of the best parts of Italy, yet it’s still not as crowded as some other regions. It’s rich in history, offers incredible food and culture, and boasts stunning scenery. My only advice? If you’re heading to Sicily for a week or less, stay on the island for your entire trip. Don’t try to combine it with other destinations in Italy. Transportation in and out of Sicily can eat up a big chunk of your vacation time without adding much value. Write to me if you have questions about traveling in Sicily! I have particularly enjoyed flying to Catania and driving along that coast.

  4. Tuscany - This page is all about Southern Italy, but if you’re tempted by Tuscany, go for it. It’s amazing and absolutely worth a visit. Tuscany is everything you have seen and read on social media and books. Driving distance from/to the Amalfi Coast is between 3 and 5hrs, depending on where you are going, and it's an easy drive. Again, feel free to reach out for tips!

 

When to Go?

Italy, to me, seems getting hotter each year (also because the longer I live in the US the more I am getting used to AC), so I recommend traveling between April and June or late September to November. While not all restaurants and attractions may be open during these times, the experience is far more enjoyable—fewer tourists, more affordable prices, and still pleasantly warm weather.

​

FOCUSING ON THE AMALFI COAST

​

Flights and Airports

For the Amalfi Coast, we recommend flying into Naples (NAP). Depending on where you are in the U.S., here are a couple of options:

  • Direct Flights: JFK now offers direct flights to Naples, which is fantastic;

  • Dublin Connection: Consider a layover in Dublin. The Dublin airport has U.S. Customs on site, meaning you’ll clear immigration before boarding your flight home. This saves you from dealing with long immigration lines upon landing in the U.S., which is especially helpful if you’re traveling with young and tired kids;

  • I would not recommend flying to Rome or Milan directly and then taking a car or train down to the Amalfi Coast. The amount of hustling and time it will take will definitely turn off most of the hype. Also, when you factor rental car and other transportation costs it is often less expansive to fly to Naples (with one layover).

 

Note: A new airport near Salerno opened in the summer of 2024, which is closer to the Amalfi Coast. I haven’t tried it yet, but it could be a great option.

 

Rental Cars and Transportation

If you plan to rent a car, the best place to do so is at the Naples airport. Throughout the Amalfi Coast, car rental options are limited, prices are higher, and availability is restricted. Here are some tips when renting a car:

  • Get Full Insurance Coverage: It’s possible your car will get scratched, dinged, or worse. Purchase full coverage directly from the rental company. If you book through a third-party site, you might get insurance at a lower price, but it will be through a third-party provider. That means that in case of damage, you’ll likely have to pay out-of-pocket and then file a claim for reimbursement, which can be a hassle;

  • Choose a Compact Car: While larger cars may feel more comfortable, they can be a nightmare to drive on the narrow streets of Southern Italy. Opt for a smaller car—it will save you headaches when parking and navigating tight roads;

  • Automatic shift. Yes, manual gears in Italy are still a thing and so make sure you get automatic shift. I have heard stories of people that thought they could master a stick shift without any prior experience and guess what?! they couldn't;

  • Renting a scooter. Renting a scooter (Vespa king of them all!) on the Amalfi Coast is a lot of fun and definitely the easiest way to get around. I believe now you can also rent electric bikes and those might be even easier to use (although with limited range/power). Two things I always like to bring up when renting a scooter: a) make sure you always lock it when parking it (full insurance, remember!); and b) please don't attempt to drive one if you have never done it. They seem easy to maneuver and they are fun but, you can get seriously injured, even at low speed. Inevitably, a number of tourists, every year end up at the local ER and that is something I definitely do not recommend!

​​

About Sorrento...

  • The historical center isn’t very large, but taking your time to wander and browse the shops can easily take a full day or two. You’ll also come across the old town walls and the remaining gates, which are fascinating to see. Make sure to visit the Basilica Sant’Antonino, the main church in Sorrento, as it’s another highlight worth exploring. See it on Google map;

  • Walk through the old alleys of Sorrento and explore the charming little shops. I recommend strolling along Corso Italia, Via S. Cesareo, and Via Fuoro, and then exploring the other alleys that intersect them. Sorrento is particularly known for its craftsmanship in woodwork, so keep an eye out for these unique creations;

  • Walk to the Park Villa Comunale for a peaceful stroll and stunning views. While you’re there, don’t miss the Chiostro di San Francesco (Cloister of St. Francis)—it’s definitely worth a visit. See it on Google map;

  • Marina Grande Beach is the main beach in Sorrento. It is an interesting spot to visit (don’t expect a California type of beach) as it’s more of a fishing village with its own unique charm. There are also several excellent seafood restaurants to try in this area. Worth exploring for an evening stroll and dinner. See it on Google map;

  • If you are planning to enjoy some beach time feel free to do so but just don't expect vast areas covered with golden sand. Beaches in the area are often rocky (quite uncomfortable without proper shoes or chairs) or made or black sand (from the volcanic rock). For an uncommon experience I suggest hiking down the beach of the Regina Giovanna. You will first need to walk or get public transportation to Punta del Capo (15 min from Sorrento) and then hike down a train that will take you to a sold rock part of the coast. Once down at the sea level, there are multiple spots where to take a dive but, the most charming by far is within the open sky cave (see picture below), it will be a "blue lagoon" type of experience. Please check locally before going, this area is often closed to the public. See it on Google map.

 

Restaurants in Sorrento
Let’s talk about food…

  • General Rule: I would recommend staying away from most restaurants on Corso Italia that display significant English proficiency. The heavy tourism in this area has impacted the quality of many establishments.

  • For Great Pizza:

  • My Favorite:

    • If you’re looking for a great restaurant in the center of Sorrento, I highly recommend Ristorante Zi Ntonio. Be sure to try the “Risotto Special”! See it on Google map.

  • For an Upscale Dinner:

    • Ristorante Museo Caruso: A historic restaurant offering fantastic cuisine. It might be a bit pricey, but it’s worth it for a special occasion. See it on Google map.

    • o Parrucchiano (La Favorita): This restaurant features a gorgeous garden in the back and pretty good food. See it on Google map.

    • Ristorante Tasso: A slightly formal option with delicious dishes. See it on Google map.

    • You can also walk down to the Marina Grande (the beach area, not the harbor), where you’ll find several restaurants offering fresh seafood. One of my favorites is Ristorante Zi’Ntonio Mare, known for its excellent seafood dishes. See it on Google map.

  • For a Restaurant Outside the City Center:

    • Antico Francischiello: Located a bit outside of Sorrento (It is reachable on foot but I recommend a car ride to get here, it is on the way to Massa), this is an incredible spot to enjoy a meal. Be sure to order the tomato salad and have them bring you the dessert cart at the end—it’s a real treat! See it on Google map.​

​​

Fast food and aperitif spots

  • If you’d like to try some “Italian fast food,” I highly recommend making a stop at Bar Rita. It’s a great place for quick bites. See it on Google map.

  • There are many bars on the streets of Sorrento where you can enjoy an aperitif or coffee. Among the most popular is Bar Fauno, located in Piazza Tasso. It’s a classic spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere. See it on Google map.

  • Another excellent option is Syrenuse, also located in the heart of Sorrento. See it on Google map.

  • For a quick and authentic sandwich, stop by a salumeria (deli) and ask for a freshly made sandwich. There’s a salumeria near this store, although I couldn’t locate it on Google Maps: See it on Google map.

  • For coffee lovers, I recommend visiting Caffè del Professore (not listed on Google Maps) in Piazza Angelina Lauro. Here, you must try the Caffè Alla Nocciola (Hazelnut Espresso)—it’s truly exceptional (two stores to the right is Gelateria Valestra so you can have a gelato as well). See it on Google map.​

​​

Gelato spots

If you’re in Sorrento, trying gelato is an absolute must! Here are some of the best spots:

 

Foods to try
Here are some foods and dishes you must try while visiting:

Main dishes and appetizers

  • Spaghetti with clams (spaghetti a vongole)

  • Pasta alla Nerano (pasta con zucchine)

  • Mozzarella di bufala (buffalo mozzarella)

  • Pizza – Make sure to visit a proper pizzeria, not the slices you see in food windows on the street. Many of the restaurants I’ve mentioned earlier serve excellent pizza. I also recommend trying the pizza at Ristorante Tasso.

  • Mixed fried antipasti (antipasti fritti)

  • Mixed seafood appetizers (antipasti di mare)

  • Fried stuffed zucchini flowers

  • Tomato salad

Desserts

  • Delizia al limone

  • Gelato!

  • Ricotta e pere – A delightful dessert that’s like a cheesecake made with ricotta cheese and pears.

  • Granita al limone (lemon slushie)
    There are many places that serve granita al limone, but only a few do it really well. Here are my favorite spots:

    • Bar Veneruso. See it on Google map

    • Valestra. See it on Google map

    • For a truly unique experience and a funny story about a cat that smoked cigarettes (yes, really!), you’ll need a car to visit Bar Orlando in Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi. Their granita is special, and the trip is worth it. See it on Google map.

​

Limoncello

You should definitely try Limoncello while in the area (you probably won't be able to avoid it anyway). The Sorrento and Amalfi lemons are unique and key for the best Limoncello you will ever try. That said, as it goes with anything that becomes too popular, Limoncello productions have exploded in the area often resulting in less than ideal quality and taste. As you taste different Limoncellos, try to draw comparisons. It is ideal to first slice a local lemon and eat it (rind included!) so that you can best understand the flavor. The area offers many different types of local liqueurs... among my favorites are Finocchietto (wild fennel liqueur) and Nocillo (walnut liqueur).

Our Limoncello producer is located in the town of Minori and will be more than happy to give you a tour if you would like (just email us). Minori is located after Amalfi, thus about 1.5 hours from Sorrento​, and is one of the most beautiful towns on the coast. See Minori on Google map.

​

Neighboring towns

​Sant'Agnello, Piano di Sorrento, Meta and Massa Lubrense are the neighboring towns to Sorrento. They are all reachable by foot with perhaps Meta and Massa Lubrense being the farthest.

  • In Sant’Agnello, the closest neighboring town, you’ll find La Terrazza, a simple bar with an incredible view of the Sorrento coast and the Gulf of Naples. It’s just a 20-minute walk from Sorrento and a great spot to enjoy coffee or a sandwich while taking in the breathtaking scenery. However, be cautious as the road can be narrow in some places with minimal sidewalks.
    See it on Google map;

  • ​The hills around Sorrento (Colli di Fontanelle and Sant'Agata) offer little towns and great views. The towns are not particularly charming in my opinion.

​

Sightseeing throughout the Amalfi Coast

If you’re staying in Sorrento or nearby, you can easily reach any town on the Amalfi Coast by car or bus (there might be also ferries from Sorrento). Buses leave from Sorrento center and head to the Amalfi Coast. For specific schedules, it’s best to ask for assistance from your hotel concierge or check online. Keep in mind that during peak season, the weather is hot, and the buses can get very crowded, making the whole thing quite unpleasant. Also, if you plan to drive brace yourself for an amazing yet super windy road along the coast.

  • Positano - Positano is just under an hour from Sorrento and offers breathtaking views and charming streets to explore. It’s one of the most picturesque spots on the Amalfi Coast, but it can get very hot, so stay hydrated! See it on Google Map

  • Amalfi - From Positano, you can continue to Amalfi, which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Sorrento. Amalfi is famous for its stunning Duomo di Amalfi, a must-visit landmark. See it on Google Map

    • While in Amalfi, don’t miss the opportunity to try some local gelato. For coffee or pastries, stop by Pasticceria Pansa Amalfi, an iconic pastry shop. See it on Google Map

  • Ravello - Ravello is a beautiful, quiet town perched on the hills of the Amalfi Coast. It’s a bit further, so plan accordingly. A highlight in Ravello is Villa Rufolo, a historic villa with stunning gardens and panoramic views. See it on Google Map​

  • Nocelle - Whether or not you do the Walk of the Gods, a visit to Nocelle is worth it. Nocelle is a tiny town high above Positano, offering stunning views of the Amalfi Coast. There are only two restaurants and a grocery store, but the scenery is incredible. To get to Nocelle, you’ll need to drive or take a bus, but note that both options will only take you as far as the parking lot. You’ll have to walk into Nocelle since there are no car roads, which adds to its charm. See it on Google Map

  • Grotta dello Smeraldo - The Grotta dello Smeraldo is a partially submerged cave with a stunning emerald glow caused by sunlight entering through an underwater tunnel. It’s a magical sight and well worth visiting if you have time. It's on the road between Positano and Amalfi. There is very limited parking there so good luck, best if you go by scooter (not sure if there is public transportation). Once there it takes about half hour to tour. Pro-tip, at the road level, right by where you park to visit the cave, there is a small coffee bar. Have something there and look out the window, it has an incredible view.  Learn more about Grotta dello Smeraldo on Wikipedia

​

Hiking

There are two main hikes I enjoy (although there are more):

  • Walk of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) - For adventure seekers, Walk of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) is a hike you can’t miss. It’s one of the most breathtaking hikes in the world but can be challenging and requires planning (not for young kids in my opinion given for multiple parts you will be walking along the edge of a very high cliff). If you do the entire hike, you’ll end up in a different town, so make arrangements for transportation back;

    • Hiring a guide is highly recommended for a richer experience. The guide will share information about the area and take you to local farms where you can taste authentic foods. Feel free to email to get a good hike contact. Learn more about the hike;

  • Monte ​San Costanzo in Massa Lubrense. Hiking up Monte San Costanzo is a very friendly hike and can be relatively short or long, depending of how far you go with your car. Once at the top you will get 360 degree unconstrained view of the entire peninsula. Perfect spot for great pictures (see picture of my older son there at the top of the page). See it on Google map;

  • Mount Vesuvius. It is possible to hike to the top of the crater (or close to it) of Mount Vesuvius. To get there you will need to arrange for transportation and I believe it is only guided tours, not a free hike. I have never done it. It may take over an hour to reach from Sorrento.

​​

Capri

If you want to visit Capri I am not your best source of information but here are a few things to know from a practical perspective. Capri is a beautiful little island with lots of charm and history:

  • Obviously you will need to travel there by sea. There are many ferry options from Sorrento but keep in mind return trips end pretty early in the day. You could also, of course, book your private boat, which, for a small group might make sense;

  • To me, the biggest drawbacks of Capri are the heat and the crowds during summer season. Ferries can get very very crowded. Lines at the port can get hairy (especially when trying to board your return trip). The cable car up and down the town center is crowded and hot. The town center is crowded and hot and so on... just be prepared for it;

  • Once in Capri you are mostly on foot. There are many things to see and there are some local taxis that will take you to certain places. From the port area most people end up taking the cable car that goes up to the town center;

  • There are companies that will take you on a boat tour around the island and, although I have never done it, I have heard good things about it;

  • Capri is a very sough after destination making prices soar for everything. Keep that in mind if you are traveling on a budget.

​

Pompei

Pompei is just a 20-minute train ride away via the Circumvesuviana line. It’s a popular destination, especially for history and archaeology enthusiasts, although not my top recommendation. A visit to Pompei can take anywhere from half a day to an entire day, so plan accordingly. Keep in mind:

  • It can get extremely hot at the ruins during the summer time, so bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and protect yourself from the sun;

  • I don't think the area outside the ruins offers anything particularly interesting except for the main cathedral in Pompei town;

  • You can get to the archeological site via train (the Circumvesuviana line, get off at Pompei Scavi Villa dei Misteri stop).

Pompei Archaeological Park - This is the primary reason most people visit Pompei—walking through the ruins of this ancient Roman city is fascinating for those into history and archaeology. If you do go, it is very interesting to see the casts of the bodies that were covered by the ashes during the eruption. Perhaps a bit disturbing for some but indeed a part of history. See the Archaeological Park on Google Map

The Basilica Pontificia di Pompei - The main cathedral of Pompei town features a fascinating basement filled with gifts left by people who attribute miracles to the church. I bet you have never seen anything like this. See the Basilica on Google Map

 

Naples

Naples is approximately 1 hour by train or ferry from Sorrento (again the Circumvesuviana line, not the best train experience of your life). I think the ferry ride is more fun. It’s a lively city packed with history, culture, and incredible food. You could easily spend multiple days here, but you’ll want to plan your trip carefully. A few tips:

  • Naples is quite large, similar to Rome, with an abundance of historical sites and attractions. Plan where you are going ahead of time;

  • There are two main train stops in Naples: Piazza Garibaldi and Napoli Centrale. When taking the train from Sorrento, I suggest you stop at Piazza Garibaldi. From there you can reach a good amount of sightseeing places on foot;

  • Some people say it has gotten better but some areas can be unsafe, so it’s important to know where you’re going. Pickpocketing can happen thus please don't showcase wealth. Make a plan ahead of time, ask your hotel concierge for advice.

Main attractions I enjoy:

  • Catacombs of San Gennaro - The Catacombs of San Gennaro are an incredible underground experience filled with history. They’re one of Naples' most fascinating and mysterious sites. See the Catacombs on Google Map. More details: Visit the official website;

  • The Veiled Christ (Cristo Velato) - One of Naples' most iconic pieces of art, the Veiled Christ at the Museo Sansevero, is a breathtaking marble sculpture that seems almost alive. It’s an absolute must-see if you’re visiting the city. Within the same museum you should also see the famous "skeletons" of San Severo. See it on Google Map More details: Visit the official website;

  • Palazzo Reale and Plebiscito Square - This is the royal palace and the square where it is located. Worth reading about the history.  See it on Google map;

  • Castel Nuovo or Maschio Angioino - A beautiful medieval castle in the middle of the main harbor area, first erected in 1279. See it on Google map;

  • Galleria Umberto I - This is a very interesting kind of small shopping mall to see. See it on Google map.

Naples has a lot to offer so these are just a few options.

​

Last but not least, things might not run as smoothly as you expect over there... and that’s okay. Embrace both the "goods" and the "bads". These are two sides of the same coin, both sides necessary to create the charm you will experience.

 

I hope you found some of these tips helpful. Feel free to email me if you have specific questions or, upon your return, if you’ve discovered some great advice to share. Below are some candid pictures (no social media filter :) ) from my latest trips.

​

Alessandro

Originals

bottom of page