Torre Costa

Vietri Sul Mare is a hidden gem of the Amalfi Coast, away from the usual touristy bustle of the larger towns in the region. This delightful harbour town is renowned for its ceramics, and you will find the first of several artisanal pottery shops nearby. There is much more to Amalfi cuisine than just lemons (delicious and versatile though they are), and the outstanding seafood restaurants here are not to be passed by. You will be just seven kilometres from Salerno - twenty minutes away by road or just five minutes by hydrofoil from Vietri Sul Mare harbour. 

Salerno is a feast for the eyes, particularly around the harbour and the town’s historical centre, with market day on Tuesday mornings. Much like Vietri Sul Mare, this end of the Amalfi Coast is generally less busy than larger towns to the west. In addition to the region’s famed leather, lemon and ceramic products, you will discover craft shops, department stores and superb boutiques. Don’t miss the chance to call in at a delicatessen, sample a fresh panini, and stop at the gelateria in Portanova Square for a ‘brioche con gelato’ – a divine combination of sweet bread and exquisite ice cream!  

Amalfi is another charming port town, just under an hour from Torre Costa by ferry or car. Compared with some of the steeper hillside towns nearby, Amalfi is less vertiginous when taking a leisurely stroll around. The promenade is a feast for the eyes, with a bustling harbour full of colourful boats and bright, whitewashed buildings rising gently up the hillside. You will discover a terrific range of independent shops and delightful cafés and restaurants – the phenomenal seafood, in particular, is not to be missed. 

A scenic fifty-minute drive inland will bring you to the gorgeous clifftop town of Ravello, known as the ‘Balcony of the Amalfi Coast’. A long-standing refuge of artists, musicians and authors over the last two centuries, Ravello hosts a range of cultural events throughout the year, including the Ravello Festival. This open-air event takes place at Villa Rufolo throughout July and August, with atmospheric musical performances set against the spectacular backdrop of the Gulf of Salerno. Michelin-starred restaurants share piazzas with trattorias and pizzerias, offering visitors many enticing dining options. 

Great shopping is one of the hallmarks of the towns and villages along this thirty-four-mile stretch of coast. Pastel-coloured buildings adorn the narrow streets, housing beautifully designed stores packed with everything from fine Italian leather bags and stylish clothing to ceramic art and one of the region’s most famous exports – Limoncello. 

There is no shortage of options for terrific local restaurants and trattorias, not to mention cookery classes and tasting tours – getting you right to the heart of this region’s passion for food and wine. There are vibrant weekly markets in the towns close by, with Ravello and Sorrento hosting theirs on a Tuesday. These street markets all have picturesque backdrops, with crowds gathering at Amalfi’s port on Thursdays treated to an incredible view from the oceanfront path. Those arriving later in the week can gather fantastic ingredients for weekend dinners at Maiori on Friday and have the chance to wander along the promenade and enjoy this pretty harbour town.   

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The Amalfi Coast's uniqueness lies in its captivating blend of natural splendour, historical sites, and the warm hospitality of its inhabitants. Whether you're exploring ancient cathedrals, relaxing on sun-soaked beaches, or savouring the region's delectable cuisine, the Amalfi Coast is a place where every moment is an unforgettable experience, where the past and present come together in a harmonious symphony of beauty and culture. It is a destination that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of all who visit, an oasis of wonder on Italy's enchanting shores.