The maritime republic
Amalfi
Amalfi was one of Italy’s four Maritime Republics, rivaling Venice and Genoa across the Mediterranean.
- From Maiori by ferry
- 15min
- From Maiori by bus
- 15min
- Now
- 14°
- Usually, at this hour
- Almost empty
The guide
What Amalfi is like.
Roman villas stood here in Tiberius' time; the town gave the world the nautical compass (attributed to Flavio Gioia) and the Tavole Amalfitane — the foundation of maritime law for centuries. Its fan-shaped layout opens toward the sea, surrounded by the Lattari Mountains. More accessible than Positano (flatter, fewer stairs), it’s the coast’s transport hub and cultural heart.
Good to know
- Visit the cathedral early — it’s nearly empty before 10:00.
- Amalfi Lemon laboratory (Valle dei Mulini brand): visit the lemon grove, taste real limoncello, and see the Museum of Rural Civilization.
- The free beach (spiaggia libera) is to the left of the harbor — less crowded than paid lidos.
- Flatter than Positano — better for families with children or anyone who doesn’t want endless stairs.
- SITA buses from here to Ravello (30 min) and Agerola (Path of the Gods start). Central connection hub.
- Parking: minimum €4-8/hour. Ferry from Salerno is the smartest way in.
Annie Spratt
Sterling Lanier
Line Kjær
Chris WeiherWhat to see
6 things, in walking order
- Cathedral of Sant’Andrea9th-century cathedral with Arab-Norman facade, 62-step staircase, majolica bell tower, the Cloister of Paradise (1200 AD), and crypt housing St. Andrew’s relics. Legend: couples who climb the stairs hand-in-hand will never marry.
- Cartiera AmatrudaStill producing handmade 'bambagina' paper using 500-year-old methods. Visit also the Paper Museum at the historic Cartiera Milano to see the techniques live.
- Valle delle FerriereA lush valley above town with waterfalls, ruined medieval iron mills, and rare Ice Age ferns (Woodwardia Radicans). 3-4h hike, 6km from Pontone to Amalfi center.
- Torre dello ZiroAncient Saracen watchtower reached by a scenic 2-3h hike from Pontone through pine forest. Tied to the tragic legend of Giovanna d’Aragona. A 360° view.
- Antichi ArsenaliRemains of the medieval shipyard where the Republic’s war galleys were built — a rare surviving testament to Amalfi’s naval power.
- Spiaggia del Duoglio1km from center, reached by 400+ steps or by boat shuttle. Much quieter than Marina Grande.
Where to eat
The ones we would send a friend to
- Trattoria Da GemmaOperating since 1872. Their zuppa di pesce is what they are known for.
- La CaravellaOffers a special menu dedicated to the Sfusato Amalfitano lemon. Refined Amalfi cuisine.
- Pasticceria PansaOn the main square since 1830. Delizie al limone, candied citrus peels, and the best sfogliatella on the coast.
Sea, trails, festivals
In Amalfi and around it.
Beaches
Trails
Festivals and events
- New Year’s Concert at Amalfi CathedralJan 1
- Spring Food Markets OpeningEarly March onwards
- Easter ProcessionsHoly Week (Thu-Sun before Easter)
- Lemon Blossom SeasonLate April to May
- Lemon Harvest SeasonMay through September
- Festa di Sant’AndreaJun 27
In Amalfi
Where to stay, what to do.
The coast passport
In Amalfi? Get the stamp.
Your phone checks that you are really here. Ten towns, ten stamps.
The other towns
