The Amalfi Coast – A Dream Destination

Breathtaking scenery, mouthwatering Italian cuisine, and limoncello on tap – it’s no wonder the Amalfi Coast sits high on so many bucket lists. I was lucky enough to visit this iconic destination in early October 2024, and let me tell you, it was absolutely sensational! That said, it was far from a lazy getaway – this coastline is packed with incredible sights, flavours, and experiences just waiting to be explored. I documented my trip in a series of reels over on my social media, sharing plenty of tips along the way. Be sure to check them out – I’ll pop my handles at the bottom of this blog! When’s the Best Time to Visit? I visited during the first week of October, and it was the perfect choice – a comfortable 24°C, ideal for exploring. The peak season runs from late July to early September, and I’d strongly recommend avoiding this period if possible. Not only are the crowds at their heaviest, but there are also driving restrictions to limit traffic into the towns. Locals even mentioned that during peak season, restaurants require reservations well in advance – or you could be waiting hours for a table! The summer heat can also be intense, which isn’t ideal for a trip filled with sightseeing. In my opinion, the sweet spots are June to mid-July and September to October – the best of the weather without the chaos! Where to Stay We based ourselves in Furore, a charming little town just a 20-minute drive from Amalfi. Hiring a car proved to be a great decision, as it gave us the freedom to visit places like Ravello and even take a day trip to Pompeii. Parking at the port of Amalfi was easy and surprisingly affordable, making it simple to hop on a ferry to explore Positano, Sorrento, and Capri. Where to Visit Ravello A true hidden gem! Often overlooked in favour of more famous spots, Ravello offers a much quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. I highly recommend stopping for lunch in the square outside the Duomo before visiting one of the stunning villas. We chose Villa Rufolo, and the panoramic coastal views from its beautifully manicured gardens were simply breathtaking. Amalfi Start with a drink at Hotel Santa Caterina, soaking in the stunning coastal views before heading into town. The main square, right in front of the Duomo (pronounced ‘dwow-mo’), is buzzing with restaurants and shops selling pottery, limoncello, and beautiful Italian fabrics. If you fancy a bit of downtime, there’s also a beach where you can rent sunbeds for the day – a perfect way to recharge! Positano The picture-perfect postcard town! Approaching Positano by ferry is simply magical – vibrant streets, the delicious aroma of Italian cuisine in the air, and the lively hum of locals chatting away. Visiting in October meant fewer crowds, allowing us to wander at our own pace. Don’t miss out on the stunning handmade pottery – the perfect keepsake from this gorgeous town! There’s plenty to do here, from relaxing on the beach to taking a ceramic or cookery class with a local expert. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike the famous Path of the Gods for jaw-dropping views. For lunch, we dined at Terrazza Celè at Hotel Marincanto – an unforgettable meal with an equally impressive view. Sorrento While not technically on the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento makes a fantastic base for exploring the region, with easy ferry access to Amalfi, Positano, and Capri. Accommodation options here are plentiful, and it’s also a breeze to reach from Naples airport. That said, I found Sorrento lacked the charm of the smaller Amalfi towns – but it’s still worth considering, especially for convenience. Pompeii An absolute must-visit! We stopped here on our way back to the airport, and it was nothing short of mesmerising. Pompeii is incredibly well-preserved, offering a fascinating glimpse into a city frozen in time. It’s easily accessible by train from Naples or Sorrento, and if you’re driving, there’s plenty of parking available. We booked a guided tour, and I’d highly recommend doing the same – the site is enormous, and a guide will help you make the most of your visit. Fun fact: it would take seven days at eight hours a day to explore all of Pompeii, so you’re really only scratching the surface! Planning Your Trip? If you’re thinking about visiting the Amalfi Coast, I’d love to help! Having explored multiple hotels, restaurants, and experiences first-hand, I have plenty of recommendations to share. It’s a truly spectacular destination that everyone should experience at least once. Arrivederci!