Things to do in  Amalfi Coast

The Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) is a top attraction on the island of Capri, located in Italy’s Bay of Naples (Golfo di Napoli). To enter this sea cave, named after the bright blue light filtering through the water via an opening in the rock below sea level, you must board a small rowboat and duck through a low opening. Once inside, you’ll have time to snap a few photos of the glowing turquoise water and—if you’re lucky—listen to a rower perform a quick Italian serenade.

Ancient and sprawling, the city of Pompeii offers glimpses of a distant past. Rather than viewing museum displays behind glass, you’ll stroll the cobbled streets, see ancient graffiti, and likely be struck by the similarities to a modern city. From restaurants to public bathrooms to amphitheaters, ancient Romans followed many of the habits we do today. Wandering this almost 2,000-year-old city is a way to remember that people from all ages share commonalities.

Shrouded in legend, the Li Galli (Sirenuse islets tower over the Mediterranean Sea. Once said to be inhabited by sirens, these tiny outcrops lure passing boats with their pristine waters and coastlines. Though the islands are private, you can still drop anchor on their outskirts to swim or snap photos.

The culprit behind Pompeii’s burial in AD 79, Mt. Vesuvius is one of Europe’s most infamous active volcanoes. While it’s currently enjoying a long dormant spell, scientists are constantly monitoring its seismic activity to avoid history repeating itself, and to reassure locals and visitors alike. Today, Mt. Vesuvius is a popular tourist attraction in southern Italy, and travelers often combine a trip to Pompeii with a visit to see the volcano that buried it.

The symbol of Capri—and one of the island’s most striking natural features—this trio of soaring rock spurs jutting out from the waters of the Mediterranean are a dramatic sight from both land and sea. Take in their craggy beauty from one of the island’s many scenic overlooks, or sail past on a boat tour.

Tiny Ravello, an idyllic village along the Amalfi Coast, has a long history and vibrant cultural life. Founded by the Romans in the sixth century, this picturesque clifftop town draws today’s travelers with its sea views, villas, and gardens. Home to Villa Rufolo—so beautiful that it inspired new music by German composer Richard Wagner—and Villa Cimbrone, known for its panoramic gardens, Ravello is an elegant respite from the crowds along the coast.

Tucked beneath the famous highway that skirts Italy's Amalfi Coast, the Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo) is one of the most popular attractions on this iconic stretch of coastline. Named for the unique color of its water, which turns emerald when the sun shines just so, the marine cave also has stalagmites and stalactites more commonly associated with inland caves, plus an underwater nativity scene.

Marina Grande is Sorrento’s historic fishing harbor at the foot of the cliffs, beaming with pastel‑colored houses, local seafood restaurants, and the tiny Church of Sant’Anna, overlooking the water. It’s a vibrant, authentic hamlet where locals still fish from the harbor and mend their nets by hand just steps from sunbathers along the beach. Diners enjoy sunset views and fresh fish and seafood from the small, family-run restaurants at the seaside.

One of the most remote and beautiful beaches on Italy's Sorrento Coast, the Baths of Queen Giovanna (Bagni Regina Giovanna) is set along the rocky cliffs of Capo di Sorrento near a dramatic natural stone arch and the ancient ruins of a Roman villa. This stretch of coastline and its natural pool are accessible only by foot or private boat, making it a tempting destination for intrepid wanderers—and sailors.

Tucked between Amalfi Coast superstars Positano and Amalfi, Praiano has managed to retain the feel of a quiet fishing village, with a slower pace and fewer crowds than its flashier neighbors. Rocky beaches and steep, winding lanes deliver views of colorful clifftop houses and the Li Galli rock formations in the distance. Admire local landmarks such as the beautifully tiled Piazza San Gennaro, then leave plenty of time to linger by the seaside.

By far Amalfi’s most famous sight, the 9th-century Amalfi Cathedral (Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea) has a theatrical staircase that leads up from the town’s main square to the church’s facade above. Climb to the top to see the cathedral’s striking mix of architectural styles and a sweeping view over the town.

There is no better stretch of beach in Positano to take a dip or work on your tan than Spiaggia Grande, next to the Marina Grande port. At this well-provisioned beach you can rent a sun lounger and umbrella, stroll the beach walk, grab a meal at a beachfront restaurant, or hop on a ferry to other coastal destinations or the islands.

Sitting astride the steep gorge that once divided the cliff-top center of Sorrento, Piazza Tasso is the pulsating heart of one of Italy’s most popular seaside resort towns. This bustling, café-lined main square is where locals and visitors alike come to see and be seen, and to admire the square’s baroque church and 18th-century palace. Set off from here to explore the old town, shop on Corso Italia, or take the steps down to the waterfront below.

Positano’s photogenic cascade of pastel-hued houses is striking, but one of the most remarkable details is the colorful tiled dome of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta (Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta). Lovely from the outside, the church is also an architectural delight within, and home to a 12th-century Byzantine-style icon of a Black Madonna and Child.

The bustling Sorrento Cruise Port (Sorrento Terminal Crociere) is a popular stop for passengers looking to explore Italy's Campania coast. While Sorrento is a charming resort town and destination in its own right, it also serves as a transportation hub and jumping-off point for excursions to the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Pompeii, and other destinations on the Bay of Naples.