This iconic stretch of mountainous coastline in southern Italy evokes luxury, romance, and eternal summer. A journey along the iconic SS163 — Amalfi Drive, hugging the cliffs and coves of the Tyrrhenian Sea, is a top bucket list item for many travel enthusiasts.
However, navigating the narrow, crowded roads along this popular tourist route can be a real challenge, which is why we recommend leaving the driving to us. Sit back, relax, and take in the enchanting panoramic views from the comfort of a sleek Mercedes V-Class or Sprinter (for family holidays), or spacious mini-bus (for group tours). A professional driver ensures a seamless and stress-free experience, making your journey as luxurious as the destination itself. Here are our top tips and must-sees along the route:
First and foremost, time your trip wisely! The Amalfi Coast is a popular tourist route that gets very busy in the high season. GHardy Tours recommends travelling in April-May or September-October, when you’ll enjoy gorgeous weather and minimal traffic. Leveraging decades of expertise in Italian tours, our travel designers hand-select premier accommodations and coordinate all transfers, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Beginning in Sorrento, stroll through the lively central Piazza Tasso, lined with quaint cafes, to soak up the atmosphere. During your visit, don’t miss the 14th century Cloister of San Francesco d’Assisi, built atop the ruins of a 7th century monastery and earlier pagan religious sites. Sorrento is the birthplace of limoncello, as well as Delizie al Limone – a delicious sponge cake filled with lemon cream and brushed with limoncello syrup – so be sure to get your citrus fix before hitting the road. Sorrento is also a perfect jumping-off point for a boat cruise or ferry to the majestic island of Capri, long a favourite destination for artists and celebrities. Here you can see the famous Grotta Azzura (Blue Grotto) as well as the famous Faraglioni rock formations, the mythical habitat of the Sirens described in Homer’s Odyssey.
Continuing to Positano, enjoy the stunning panoramic views en route. Film enthusiasts may recognize the backdrop: Many films from Hollywood’s Golden Age were shot here, including “Beat the Devil” and “Il Postino”, as well as more modern classics like “The Talented Mr. Ripley”, and “Eat Pray Love.” Positano overflows with old-world charm and impossibly beautiful views. Although it can get crowded, it is possible to experience the town’s more serene side by heading to one of the many hiking trails or smaller beaches, such as Fornillo. If you’re up for a trek, you can enter Positano on foot from Bomerano, three hours away, along the Walk of the Gods.
Our next stop is Amalfi. The seat of a once-powerful maritime republic, Amalfi’s ancient Roman origins are visible in the ruins throughout the town, including those of a nymphaeum dating back to the reign of Emperor Tiberius. The largest town on the coast, Amalfi is the best place to delve into the region’s history. Don’t miss the Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea (also known as the Duomo di Amalfi) and be sure to take a photo on the staircase.
On your trip, take the time to stroll through a lemon orchard in Maiori, dive into Italy’s only fjord in Furore, explore the beautiful parks of Ravello, or shop for brightly coloured artisanal ceramics in Vietri Sul Mare. Each stop along this iconic stretch of coastline offers a new marvel and a unique story.
