Giada's Guide to Amalfi
Centuries ago, Amalfi was a maritime republic with a robust trade throughout the Mediterranean. Reminders of the town’s long-ago grandeur can be seen in a number of historic sites that survive to this day, including the Duomo of Amalfi, a splendid cathedral with a thousand-plus-year history. The main beach here is called the Spiaggia Grande, which is easily accessed from the port. In fact, it’s so popular that Amalfitani often seek out other places to swim, such as the Lido delle Sirene and La Marinella. For a memorable excursion, head to the nearby Emerald Grotto in Conca dei Marini, renowned for its intense green waters and reachable only by boat.
Eat
Gran Caffè Amalfi
Open since 1936, this historic café is the cultural heart of Amalfi, a meeting place for residents to discuss local events over espresso. Grab a seat on the terrace for the most magnificent view of the sunset and a refreshing shakerato.
La Bottega dei Ferrari
From this unassuming little storefront on the bustling Piazza dei Dogi come the most delicious, creative panini on the Amalfi Coast. Meats and cheeses await to be sliced to order and composed into surprising new combinations on pillowy, fresh-baked bread—don’t miss the La Stangata, made with mortadella, provolone del monaco, and a sweet-and-savory eggplant and pistachio jam.
Le Palme Ristorante Pizzeria
If you didn’t get your fill of pizza in Naples, this excellent pizzeria in the village of Atrani has you covered. Walk here through the pedestrian tunnel from Amalfi for a lunchtime adventure with a delicious destination.
Lido Azzurro
For fabulously fresh seafood, this flower-bedecked terrace on the water’s edge is a picturesque choice. Arrive via boat for the ultimate Amalfi Coast experience.
Pasticceria Andrea Pansa
For nearly 200 years, this shop has been serving up perfectly pulled espresso and gorgeous pastries a stone’s throw from the grand Duomo. This is the place to try the city’s signature dessert, delizie al limone—a tart and creamy combination of fluffy sponge cake and lemon custard.
Torre Saracena
On the rooftop of an ancient defensive tower, this romantic seafood restaurant may have the most stunning location in Amalfi. With panoramic views looking out over the sea and back onto the rocky cliffs surrounding the city, there’s not a bad table to be found.
Do
Take the tunnel to Atrani
At just under 30 acres and with a population of less than 1,000 people, the tiny fishing village of Atrani is one of the Amalfi Coast’s best-kept secrets. It’s a quick taxi ride from Amalfi, but for a fun excursion, take a 10-minute walk to get there through a pedestrian tunnel that feels like a secret portal to the quaint, less-traveled town.
Museo della Carta
Housed in a medieval mill, this museum showcases Amalfi’s past as a producer of fine handmade paper. The craft was introduced here during the Middle Ages by Arab trading partners, and Amalfi became famous in Italy for the paper known as bambagina. Stop by the gift shop to pick up some beautiful souvenirs made with this luxuriously thick, handcrafted material.
Duomo di Amalfi
With a striking striped marble facade, this grand cathedral is impossible to miss in the town’s central piazza. Begun in the 9th century, it was added to over centuries, resulting in a grand mixture of styles that includes magnificent bronze doors crafted in Istanbul in the 11th century, a largely Baroque interior, and a Romanesque bell tower.
Stay
Borgo Santandrea
Built into the side of the cliff overlooking the village of Conca dei Marini, this luxurious hotel provides serenity, style, and unparalleled views. A major draw is the secluded private beach, which can be reached from the hotel via elevator and has restaurant and bar service so you can spend all day without leaving the shore.
Hotel Santa Caterina
Owned by the same family for almost 120 years, this timeless hotel has long been a favorite among travelers in the know. The style is classic Amalfi, with sunny, whitewashed interiors decorated with hand-painted tile, marble, and antique furnishings. With a beachside salt-water pool, spa, and multiple dining options, the hotel has all the ingredients for a perfect vacation.
Hotel Miramalfi
With a stylish midcentury vibe, this hotel offers plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. Most rooms have a small balcony on which to enjoy your morning cappuccino while gazing out at the sea. It’s a short walk from the Amalfi town center, or hop on the hotel’s free shuttle service to get there in comfort.
Get a taste of the region
Sorrento's Lemon Olive Oil IGP
- Discount Price Member
- $16.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $17.00
- Unit Price
- per
Gold-Wrapped Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Discount Price Member
- $30.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $33.00
- Unit Price
- per
Soft Lemon Amaretti Cookies Tin
- Discount Price Member
- $23.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $24.50
- Unit Price
- per
Moor's Head Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Discount Price Member
- $53.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $58.00
- Unit Price
- per
Organic Sicilian Oregano Bunch
- Discount Price Member
- $7.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $7.50
- Unit Price
- per
Oregano Spicy Sea Salt Seasoning
- Discount Price Member
- $11.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $12.00
- Unit Price
- per
Organic Mezzi Rigatoni Pasta
- Discount Price Member
- $10.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $11.00
- Unit Price
- per
Organic Nodi Marini Pasta
- Discount Price Member
- $10.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $11.00
- Unit Price
- per
Organic Ziti Rigati Pasta
- Discount Price Member
- $10.00
- Regular Price / Regular
- $11.00
- Unit Price
- per
