9 Things to Do: The Amalfi Coast Edition

Sunkissed. Hilltop towns. Scenic views. As an intriguing mix between sophistication and simplicity, the Amalfi Coast carries some hidden secrets for those who wander on Strada Statale 163 - the ‘road of 1,000 bends’. Hop on a vespa, admire the coastal drive, and create souvenirs to cherish in our 9 favorite spots along the Italian Coastline. What will remain are memories to cherish, and the everlasting perfume of the fig trees while going down the terraced citrus plantation. 

Photography by Oliver Fly
  1. Wander Around Villa Cimbrone, Ravello

For many, Ravello is the jewel in the crown. The exquisite town sits up a hill, 350 meters above sea level. Palazzi, secret villas, peaceful gardens, breathtaking views with a sense of romance all around. In its glory, the town has attracted A-list writers, artists and musicians. In 1904, Lord Grimthorpe, bought Villa Cimbrone, an 11th Century Villa. Commanding enchanting views, the villa is now also a hotel for a sweet escape. 

Photography by Oliver Fly
  1. Dive into the Crystal Blue Water

Italians call it “La Dolce Far Niente”. The subtle art of enjoying doing nothing. Something that might sound complicated to us, but trust me, it is worth it! From Positano to Maiori, the coast abounds with crystal-clear water to di(v)e for. Don’t forget to book your day bed during high season!

  1. More Pasta, Less Drama

Italy is the country for those of you who are like me and could live off pasta day and night. But the Campania coastline is famous for its Spaghetti alle vongole - ’Spaghetti with clams’. You can have them In Bianco or In Rosso. The difference is the extra touch of tomatoes. Because one time is never enough, it will give you plenty of time to try them both. 

Photography by Oliver Fly
  1. Step Through Time at Villa Rufolo, Ravello

Built by a wealthy merchant family in the 13th century, the villa has a rich past, from hidden treasures to the Summer palace for Norman royalty. In 1880 Richard Wagner drew inspiration for his opera Parsifal from the romantic garden of Villa Rufolo. Today, Wagner’s spirit lives on in Ravello as the town has become known as La città della musica -’city of music’. 

Photography by Oliver Fly
  1. Discover the Historic Town of Amalfi

Between the 9th and 12th centuries, Amalfi was a proud and glorious maritime republic. A rival to Venice, Pisa and Genoa. Known for its paper, la bambagina, the little town has a fascinating history, in a grandiose setting between sea and mountains. Go off-track and climb up the steep stairways to discover a different side of Amalfi, the one that will make you travel back into the Middle Ages. 

Photography by Oliver Fly
  1. Try the Best Lemon Sorbet

Known as Sfusato Amalfitano, Amalfi lemons are an iconic symbol of the Amalfi Coast. Bountifully produced, they have been coveted for over a thousand years for their sweet flavor and powerful citrus aroma. They make essential oil, juice, perfume out of it, but also the best lemon sorbet in the world. And I mark my words. 

Photography by Oliver Fly
  1. Enjoy Sunset at Il San Pietro di Positano

Majestically standing up a cliff above the Bay of Positano, the 5-star hotel is a little heaven soaked in fragrant bougainvilleas and citrus trees. Since its opening in October of 1970, the hotel has been the place of gathering of the dolce vita jet set. Indulge yourself with an aperitivo while enjoying the slow pace of a moment out of time. 

Photography by Oliver Fly
  1. Pose in Positano

When John Steinbeck came to the coast in 1953 to write his famous article for Harper's Bazaar, he found a charming little fishing village known only to a few. Its name? Positano. But it was only a matter of time before the dolce vita jet set moved in, big time, in the 1960s. To be honest, you don't come to Positano to visit some historical places. There aren't any to speak of. You come to drink a Spritz while admiring those unequal views, to shop for flowing linen and handmade sandals. La Dolce Vita.

Photography by Oliver Fly
  1. Sip a Limoncello

A trip down the coast wouldn’t be completed without a glass of Limoncello. Juicy Amalfi lemons make excellent limoncello. Often produced homemade, they will serve it straight from the freezer at the end of a feast. Not for the fainthearted. 

Photography by Oliver Fly