May 6, 2025

A Bespoke Guide to the Amalfi Coast

Where to Stay, Explore & Indulge

The Amalfi Coast isn’t just a destination, it’s a feeling. It’s the sun warming your shoulders on a cliffside terrace, the scent of lemon trees in the air, and the sound of waves lapping below as you sip your espresso. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a multigenerational family adventure, or a getaway with friends, this iconic coastline delivers luxury, charm, and memories that linger long after you return home.

Here’s your bespoke guide to Italy’s most iconic seaside escape, what to know, where to go, and how to do it beautifully.

When to Visit the Amalfi Coast

The best time to travel is between April and October. Each season has its own magic:

  • Spring (April–June): Mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds.
  • Summer (July–August): Peak season, buzzing energy, warm water, beach clubs in full swing.
  • Fall (September–October): Golden light, a slower pace, and warm seas perfect for swimming.

For that ideal balance of sunshine and serenity, May and September are our favorite months.

Getting There

The closest airport is Naples (NAP). From there, you can:

  • Take a private transfer (our recommended option for ease and comfort)
  • Use the train to Sorrento, followed by a ferry or car
  • Hop on ferries from Naples or Sorrento to Positano, Amalfi, or Capri

Where to Stay & What to Do: Town-by-Town

Each town along the coast has its own personality. Here’s how to choose the one that fits your travel style—and a few of our favorite hotels and experiences in each.

Positano

Romantic, Vibrant, and Iconic

Best for: Couples, honeymooners, stylish friend getaways
Why go: Positano is everything you imagine the Amalfi Coast to be—colorful cliffs, charming boutiques, and glamorous beach clubs.

Where to stay:

  • Le Sirenuse – An Amalfi icon with world-class dining and breathtaking views.
  • Il San Pietro di Positano – Private, secluded, and effortlessly refined.
  • Hotel Villa Franca – Boutique luxury with a rooftop pool and chic modern decor.

What we love: The buzz of the beach promenade, al fresco lunches with rosé, and arriving by boat—because there’s no better way to take in the view.

Ravello

Peaceful, Elegant, and Elevated

Best for: Couples, quiet luxury seekers, culture lovers
Why go: Ravello sits high above the coastline, offering tranquility, gardens, and sweeping views—without the bustle of the beach towns.

Where to stay:

  • Palazzo Avino – A pink-hued 12th-century villa with exceptional service.
  • Caruso, A Belmond Hotel – Dramatic gardens, a legendary infinity pool, and old-world glamour.

What we love: The quiet. Ravello invites you to slow down and savor each moment—especially golden hour from a cliffside terrace.

Amalfi & Praiano

Historic, Central, and Scenic

Best for: Couples, families, relaxed travelers
Why go: Amalfi is one of the coast’s liveliest towns, rich in history with a walkable layout. Nearby Praiano offers a more peaceful, under-the-radar escape.

Where to stay:

  • Hotel Santa Caterina – Old-school Italian hospitality with sea views and a private beach.
  • Borgo Santandrea – Mid-century elegance blended with coastal charm.
  • Casa Angelina (Praiano) – Minimalist design and spectacular service in a quiet setting.

What we love: The Amalfi Cathedral, boat rides at dusk, and the perfect blend of vibrancy and authenticity.

Sorrento

Accessible, Family-Friendly, and Full of Flavor

Best for: Families, first-time visitors, travelers looking to explore beyond the coast
Why go: Sorrento is a great home base with easy access to Capri, Naples, and Pompeii. It’s charming, friendly, and full of character.

Where to stay:

  • Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria – A grand historic hotel with sea views and a private elevator to the harbor.
  • Parco dei Principi – A Gio Ponti-designed gem with 1960s flair and bold Italian style.

What we love: Sipping limoncello in the town square, ferry hopping to Capri, and watching the sun set over the Bay of Naples.

Signature Experiences

No matter where you stay, these are a few moments that make an Amalfi Coast trip unforgettable:

  • Charter a private boat to explore the coast from the water
  • Dine al fresco overlooking the sea (Positano and Ravello are stunning for this)
  • Take a cooking class to learn fresh pasta or lemon risotto from a local chef
  • Hike the Path of the Gods for panoramic views and photo-worthy pit stops
  • Visit Capri for chic boutiques, gelato in the Piazzetta, and the famed Blue Grotto

Ready to Plan Your Amalfi Coast Escape?

At The Bespoke Destination, we create personalized travel experiences that match your style and pace, so all you need to do is show up and soak it in. Whether you’re traveling for a milestone, a moment of reconnection, or just because… we’ll make sure every detail is exactly as you imagined.

👉 Start planning your bespoke Amalfi Coast journey

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