You've decided to embark on an adventure to the Mediterranean's gem, let us guide you through the mesmerizing journey of an Amalfi Coast honeymoon. As an enchanting landscape painted with turquoise sea, sun-kissed cliffs, and colourful dwellings, Amalfi Coast encapsulates the Italian dream, making it a perfect honeymoon destination. This guide will show you the many exciting things you can do and see in this wonderful place. You'll learn about delicious local food, interesting tours, fancy places to stay, options for renting a car, and amazing places to visit. Step out of the ordinary and dive into an unforgettable Amalfi Coast adventure designed to turn every moment into an everlasting memory. So, dream freely as we travel through the coastal paradise, and get ready to plan your dream Amalfi Coast honeymoon.
No trip to Italy is complete without delving into the depth of their culinary delights, and the Amalfi Coast is no exception. We had the chance to discover the incredible local flavors and dishes this stunning coastal region is known for. From luxurious dining establishments to charming local trattorias, every meal we had was a celebration of taste and flavor.
We were spoiled for choices with regional dishes like the 'Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare', a type of pasta made fresh in-house, served with assorted seafood that pays homage to their coastal living. Not to mention the sea-inspired dishes such as 'Totani e Patate', a delicious mix of squid and potatoes that encapsulates simplicity and flavor, a trademark of Italian cuisine.
Photo credit: La Taverna del Duca (www.amalfilatavernadelduca.it/en/)
While savouring these delightful meals, what struck us most was the distinct ambiance of the Amalfi Coast's restaurants. Some with breathtaking sea views and warm, inviting interiors that reflect their sunny disposition. Others that were nestled within rustic alley ways looking out into the cultured architecture. Dining here was an experience in itself.
One piece of advice for those planning their Amalfi Coast honeymoon: make your dining reservations well in advance. These restaurants are highly sought-after and we can assure you, the effort does pay off.
These were some of our favorite places:
Immersing ourselves in the alluring local cuisine is part of the journey, and soon we embarked on the next phase: submerging ourselves in the rich cultural tapestry of the beautiful Amalfi Coast. It was not solely the scenic vistas that we sought to enjoy but also the essence of the Amalfi lifestyle reflected in its local customs, traditions, and people.
Our travels took us from concealed sandy beaches to enchanting vineyards, and from the timeless remnants of the coast's medieval history to the heart of its contemporary lifestyle. The subtle infusion of age-old traditions in everyday life acted as the perfect reminder of the splendor that is Amalfi Coast's heritage and modern vibrancy. What beguiled us the most was the adaptability of the local people who gracefully balance the allure of antiquity with the demands of the present.
Perhaps the most impactful were the locals who would share personal tales and anecdotes, symbolizing the living culture that thrives in this coastal paradise. Vividly recalling tales rooted deeply in rich history and folklore, their stories woven intricately into the fabric of everyday Amalfi life mesmerized us.
A quick suggestion for those embarking on this cultural immersion - dress comfortably and bring essentials like water, sunscreen, and your camera. You'll find the lifestyle vibrant and colorful, and you wouldn't want to miss chronicling these beautiful moments.
We discovered that the Amalfi Coast offers a grand spectrum of accommodation options depending on your preference and budget. From luxury seaside resorts offering breathtaking views of the azure Mediterranean to quaint bed and breakfast situated in cosy corners serving home-cooked Italian meals, we were spoilt for choice. Each place had its distinct charm, whether it was the stunning view, the welcoming decor soaking in romantic Italian vibes, or the unparalleled hospitality.
We chose to stay at Hotel Miramalfi, the place gave us access to unparalleled services such as spa facilities for that much-needed relaxation after a day of exploring, tours to the hidden gems of Amalfi Coast, and even private transfers. One of our days we made sure to spend it by the absolutely gorgeous pool that overlooked the endless sea. The warmth and welcoming spirit of the locals elevated our experience. Their genuine smiles and readiness to assist added a personal touch that hotel brochures can't capture.
Here are some other recommendations for accommodation:
There's a unique sense of liberty in driving along the stunning cliff-side roads of the Amalfi Coast. That's exactly why we decided to rent a car. It gave us the luxury of setting our own pace and the convenience to explore the hidden gems of the coast not generally covered in tours. However, Amalfi Coast roads are quite busy and narrow. You are constantly passed by motorcyclists coming up the middle and tour buses around very tight corners on roads that basically classify as single lane. All this while trying not to rub up against the cars parked on the side of the road. It's a different experience but, if you are confident in your driving ability you won't have any problem.
There are several car rental services across the Amalfi Coast, and each service comes with its unique offering. We found simplicity by just prebooking with Expedia since we were flying into Rome. We spent a few hours in Rome and then drove from there to Amalfi. The process was straightforward, with the standard requirement of a driving license and a credit card for security deposits. There were of course your luxury cars that you could rent (SixT), and if it fits your budget, go for it! Nothing like driving the roads of Italy in true fashion. However, the Amalfi Coast roads are twisty and narrow and our recommendation is to go for something small like we did, a Fiat. I could drive anywhere, park everywhere and keep fuel costs low.
Driving in a foreign country can be daunting but with a bit of research and preparedness, we were good to go. Italian drivers are known for their gusto, but the friendly and helpful locals were always ready with tips and advice for navigating the roads. Cruising from quaint Sorrento to picturesque Positano, and from scenic Ravello to lively Amalfi, we discovered spots that would've been otherwise missed. Remember, hidden places hold a beauty that awaits admiration. Such is the charm of an Amalfi Coast honeymoon - surprises at every corner.
Our Amalfi Coast journey wouldn't be complete without diving into the sightseeing marvels this coastal paradise offers. The charming towns are sprinkled with famous, and lesser-known, spots that provide unique experiences and panoramic views, which will leave you awe-struck.
One of our first noteworthy adventures was the captivating hike through Italy's famous 'Path of the Gods', locally known as 'Sentiero degli Dei'. This remarkable trail winds its way along the Amalfi Coast, delivering awe-inspiring, panoramic views of the captivating coastal landscape at every twist and turn. Energized by the fresh, crisp air, it was an experience that truly made us feel on top of the world. We started in Bomerano and hiked our way to Positano. There are several ways to explore this hike. You can either drive or bus to Bomerano, begin the hike to Nocelle, and then bus back. Or you can walk from Nocelle to Positano and take a ferry back to Amalfi (word of warning if you don't like stairs, there are over 1000 steps down). We decided to hike the whole way and yes, our legs were really tired!
The history of the vestige monuments and cultural landmarks revealed significant aspects of the Coast's rich past. When you walk into the main town square, 'Piazza Duomo', one thing becomes apparent. The stories etched in stone and soaked in the grandeur of the magnificent Duoma di Amalfi cathedral located up top a set of stairs. Within the Piazza there are also several shops, restaurants, and cocktail bars all along the long road that travels towards the beautiful mountain backdrop.
Ravello, another stop in our itinerary houses the ancient, mystic Villa Rufolo. A very history rich place to visit with incredible gardens and even more stunning backdrop of the sea. There were so man little stores to walk into and wherever you looked seemed to be another beautiful sight. Before we left, we ended up staying till the evening to watch a concert put on by one of the local artists in the Piazza Centrale. A great way to end our adventure to Ravello.
Timing, they say, is key, and we found it to be especially true when it comes to sightseeing. Planning was essential to ensure we visited the sights during quiet hours, enabling us to peacefully absorb the beauty, unhampered by bustle. Getting around Amalfi is best enjoyed by walking around the narrow, colorful lanes and choosing public transportation or the car rental we previously arranged.
Having keenly absorbed and imbibed their vibrant culture and exquisite landscapes, saying ‘Arrivederci’ to the Amalfi Coast was especially hard. But, as our perfect Amalfi Coast honeymoon came to a close, we were left with unforgettable memories that we would cherish for a lifetime. We needed to make our way back to our Hotel and drive back to Rome the next Day.
Experiencing an Amalfi Coast honeymoon adventure is something truly magical. The allure and irresistible charm of the coast is so captivating that it touches your heart. Imagine exploring a variety of delicious local foods or being guided through some of the most insightful tours here. Cozy and friendly accommodations are just the icing on the cake. All in all, a honeymoon on the Amalfi Coast will expose you to a whole range of exciting and varied experiences, making it a unique and unforgettable adventure.
Choosing to drive through the vast coastal roads taking you to both hidden and well-known landmarks adds an exciting layer to your honeymoon experience. Don't forget about the many places to visit that are rich in history, showcasing the local culture, and offering unparalleled scenic views. Each of these elements together makes your time here a lasting memory. As you start this new chapter of your life, consider the Amalfi Coast as your honeymoon destination to make it even more special. Life's too short for ordinary experiences, so why not add some magic? Enjoy the adventure and let the Amalfi Coast set the stage for your honeymoon, making it the first of your many beautiful life adventures.