10 Dreamy Amalfi Coast Towns to Visit in Italy

An idyllic 30-mile stretch along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast is prized for its dramatic landscape, delicious cuisine, and colorful fishing villages — each seemingly more lovely than the last. While every seaside town offers something unique, travelers can bet on spellbinding scenery across the region (think: towering cliffs, sheltered coves, vineyards, lemon groves, and cerulean waters). The accessibility factor means visitors are able to hit a few stunning spots in a single trip.

Can’t decide which photogenic destinations deserve a place on your itinerary? Scroll on for 10 of the prettiest Amalfi Coast towns you won’t want to miss.

Positano

The most famous of all the seaside villages in the region, Positano lures droves of travelers each summer. Its narrow streets are dotted with cafes, chic shops selling handmade sandals, and boutique hotels such as Le Sirenuse. Buzzy beach clubs contribute to the allure. Strike out on the fabled Path of the Gods hiking trail that runs from Bomerano to Nocelle, a hilltop hamlet just above Positano, for some of the best views around. Or, take in an Instagram-worthy sunset from one of its finest hotels.

Ravello

One of the prettiest towns along the Amalfi Coast, Ravello has long been a muse for poets, musicians, and painters. The endlessly romantic destination is a long-standing summer retreat set high above the Tyrrhenian Sea. To really understand its enduring appeal, feast your eyes on the cliff-clinging Italianate gardens of the 13th-century Villa Rufolo. Then, see even more botanical beauty and sweeping panoramas at Villa Cimbrone, where you can stay in a room decorated with antiques and patterned floor tiles. The more opulent accommodations here even come with stone fireplaces and frescoed ceilings.

Praiano

Located between the tourist-flooded towns of Amalfi and Positano, peaceful Praiano looks like a movie set with wander-worthy streets, villas, and restaurant terraces teetering on rocky cliffs. Many visitors also prefer the more leisurely, almost sleepy, pace that allows you to soak in the beauty of its historic churches and watch towers rising above the rugged coast. The five-star boutique gem Casa Angelina typifies the laid-back lifestyle and authenticity that makes Praiano so delightful.

Conca dei Marini

Situated on a hill overlooking the sparkling water below, Conca dei Marini is an ancient fishing village that could date back to the Etruscans. Today, it offers travelers an enchanting home base for an Amalfi Coast holiday that’s filled with fresh-caught seafood, relaxing on the beach, and cooling off in the Tyrrhenian Sea. On the short list of modern attractions, the luxury boutique hotel Borgo Santandrea has made a name for itself with its panoramic terraces and sophisticated interpretation of coastal style.

Vietri sul Mare

A low-key alternative to Positano or Amalfi, Vietri sul Mare, which sits just west of Salerno, is the ceramics capital of Campania. Many of the plates and bowls you’ll see in local shops are made right here. Souvenirs aside, hand-painted tiles adorn much of this charming town that also lays claim to the beautiful late Renaissance-style Neapolitan Church of St. John the Baptist. When you aren’t shopping and admiring historical sites, find a spot on the beach to bask in the Mediterranean sun.

Atrani

This pint-sized fishing village charms all who visit (and truth be told, not too many visit Atrani compared to the likes of Amalfi and Positano). With a population of fewer than 900 residents, it holds onto that sought-after frozen-in-time appeal. Simply wandering around is the best way to see the unspoiled virtues of Atrani’s many alleyways, steep flights of stairs, churches, piazzas, quaint cafes, and cheerful cliffside houses. Below the town itself, a pristine stretch of coastline beckons locals and in-the-know travelers.

Amalfi

The attractive town that shares its name with the region is an incredibly popular first stop for many tourists and acts as a main transport hub with boats constantly passing through the harbor. It’s worth contending with the crowds for a close-up look at the Duomo di Amalfi in the main square. The surrounding streets ooze heritage — and lemon everything. Scented soaps, embroidered aprons, and bottles of limoncello spill out of souvenir shops. Gelaterias scoop sorbetto al limone.

Minori 

If you’ve already done Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, it’s time to consider Minori. Lesser known than its celebrated neighbors — though, certainly no less dazzling — this tiny, uncrowded coastal town woos visitors with its wooden fishing boats bobbing in the harbor, terraced gardens, and alfresco eateries. Don’t miss Villa Romana, an impressively preserved archaeological complex with frescoes, mosaics, and vases from the first century. There’s also a scenic hike commonly referred to as “the path of lemons” that links Minori to Maiori

Maiori 

What Maiori lacks in widespread name recognition, it more than makes up for in history and halcyon vibes. This under-the-radar slice of Amalfi Coast paradise less than a mile from Minori shows off a pretty waterfront promenade, picture-perfect landmarks such as Castello Mezzacapo, and a large sandy beach. Even better, you won’t have to dodge quite so many tourists while attempting to admire breathtaking views of the sea and mountains.

Furore

Chances are good that most people haven’t heard much about Furore, lovingly referred to by locals as the “town that doesn’t exist.” If this hidden gem located smack dab in the middle of the Amalfi Coast has popped up on your radar, it’s likely because of one spectacular spot: a fjord that opens up to reveal a secret beach. Stairs lead down from a tiny village with cute bars and restaurants to the shimmering bay. The cinematic bridge serves unparalleled views from above.