Amalfi is the main town of the Amalfi Coast and is known for its picturesque whitewashed houses and narrow winding streets. The town sits in the shadow of the Lattari Mountains and has views out over the Mediterranean Sea. Take in the water vistas as you explore churches and monuments dedicated to the small town’s rich past.
More than a thousand years ago Amalfi was a major maritime hub and merchants came and went from all over the Mediterranean to trade here. It even minted its own coins up until 1343, when a devastating tsunami destroyed much of the town’s infrastructure.
Walk down the alleys of the sleepy harbour town and find remnants of its powerful past in hidden courtyards and whitewashed houses. Boats were once built in shipyards that today house souvenir shops, and luxury yachts fill the marina where merchant ships once stood. Soak up the atmosphere from the promenade that runs along the harbour.
Walk to the Piazza del Duomo, the town’s main square, to admire the facade of the Cathedral of St. Andrew. See elements of Moorish, Byzantine, Gothic and Baroque styles in the cathedral’s striking architecture. St. Andrew was one of Christ’s apostles and his bones are kept in a crypt inside. Stroll beneath the arches of the Cloister of Paradise where many of the area’s nobles were buried.
The Piazza del Duomo is a meeting place for locals who gather on the steps of the cathedral. Drink strong Italian coffee in cafés surrounding the square.
Amalfi is known as one of the earliest producers of paper in Europe and its 13th-century paper mill still stands today. Tour the Paper Mill Museum that’s housed inside.
Get to Amalfi by bus from Positano, Salerno, Sorrento and Naples. The SITA bus company offers regular and affordable services. Access to Amalfi by private car is strictly controlled and numbers are limited in summer during peak tourist times. If you are driving, you’ll need to check with Amalfi’s tourist office before setting off on your journey in July and August.
