Things to do on the Amalfi Coast

Setting sail from the pier at Positano on your way to Capri is an experience that begins even before you set foot on land. The crossing offers a unique view of the Li Galli archipelago, the legendary islands of Ulysses’ sirens, before landing in the shadow of the Faraglioni, the giant rock formations that guard the island. Capri welcomes visitors with the magic of the Blue Grotto and the elegance of the famous Piazzetta, known as the "living room of the world". A stroll through the Gardens of Augustus or a trip up to Anacapri on the famous chairlift offers the chance to explore the island's most authentic spirit, amidst imperial villas, the scents of the Mediterranean scrub and views that take in the entire Gulf.

Whether you take the scenic main road or sail along the coast, you’ll arrive in Amalfi, the oldest of the Maritime Republics. Here, history can be experienced in the narrow streets of the ancient armouries and on the majestic steps of the Cathedral of Sant'Andrea, an Arab-Norman masterpiece that dominates the main square. The journey continues as we climb towards the heights of the Lattari Mountains until we reach Ravello, the town of music. Enveloped in silence and elegance, Ravello enchants visitors with its historic villas: the gardens of Villa Rufolo, famous for the Wagner music festival, and the belvedere of Villa Cimbrone, where the "Terrazza dell'Infinito" offers what has been described as the most beautiful view in the world.

The Amalfi Coast is home to hidden treasures that can only be seen from the sea, set amidst a succession of coves and natural wonders. Sailing eastwards, you come to the Furore Fjord, a deep crevice in the rock where the sea winds its way to lap at an ancient fishing village and the suspension bridge that spans it. Not far away, in Conca dei Marini, lies the Grotta dello Smeraldo: a sea cave where sunlight, filtered through an underwater crevice, tints the water with intense, mesmerising shades of green, creating a play of light and shadow amongst the ancient stalactites and stalagmites. Inside, a striking underwater nativity scene makes the visit even more captivating.

For those who love nature and hiking, the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) is the ultimate excursion. Winding along the hillside of the Lattari Mountains, this scenic route connects Agerola with Nocelle, a hamlet high above Positano. Walking here is like moving while literally suspended between the blue of the sky and the blue of the sea, while being enveloped in the scents of thyme and wild rosemary. The path offers dizzying and unforgettable views that stretch from the Sorrento Peninsula to the Faraglioni rocks off Capri, providing a breathtaking and unique perspective on the rugged coastline.

Positano is also the gateway to ancient history. An easy day trip takes you to the archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, unique places where time stood still in 79 AD. Strolling along the cobbled surfaces of the ancient Roman roads, stepping inside the frescoed domus, and admiring the mosaics, thermal baths and forums means immersing yourself completely in the daily life of the Roman Empire. It is a profound cultural experience, revealing the grandeur and tragedy of civilisations forever frozen in time by the eruption of Vesuvius.