Best Towns to Stay on the Amalfi Coast: Italy’s luxury coast

Imagine waking up to the sound of gentle waves, stepping onto a sun-drenched terrace, and gazing out at the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

This dream becomes reality on the Amalfi Coast, a 50-kilometer stretch of coastline in southern Italy that UNESCO has declared a World Heritage Site.

With its dramatic cliffs, pastel-colored villages, and fragrant lemon groves, the Amalfi Coast is a slice of paradise that has captivated travelers for centuries. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the best towns to stay in this Italian wonderland.

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The Top 5 Best Towns to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

1. Positano: The Jewel of the Amalfi

Positano, with its colorful houses cascading down the cliff face, is perhaps the most iconic town on the Amalfi Coast. It’s a favorite among celebrities and luxury travelers, known for its chic boutiques, pebble beaches, and stunning sunsets.

Best places to stay in Positano:

1. Solo Travel: Hotel Palazzo Murat. Once the summer residence of the King of Naples, this elegant hotel in the heart of Positano offers a peaceful courtyard and a prime location for solo explorers.
2. Budget-Friendly: Hotel Savoia. While “budget” is relative in Positano, Hotel Savoia offers more affordable rooms without sacrificing the stunning sea views.
3. Couples Escape: Le Sirenuse This legendary luxury hotel offers unparalleled romantic ambiance with its Michelin-starred restaurant and infinity pool overlooking the sea.
4. Family-Friendly: Hotel Conca d’Oro. With spacious rooms and a convenient location, this hotel caters well to families wanting to experience Positano’s charm.
5. Luxury: Il San Pietro di Positano. Perched on a cliff outside town, this ultra-luxurious hotel offers private beach access via elevator and Michelin-starred dining.

2. Amalfi: Historical Heart of the Coast

The town that gives the coast its name, Amalfi is rich in history and maritime tradition. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the entire coastline.

Best places to stay in Amalfi:

1. Solo Travel: Residenza Luce. This charming B&B in the historic center offers cozy rooms and a rooftop terrace, perfect for solo travelers.
2. Budget-Friendly: Hotel Croce di Amalfi. Located just steps from the main square and beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms at more accessible prices.
3. Couples Escape: Santa Caterina Hotel. A romantic luxury hotel set in a stunning Art Nouveau villa with clifftop views and a beach club.
4. Family-Friendly: Hotel Marina Riviera. This hotel offers family rooms and a rooftop pool, all within easy walking distance of Amalfi’s attractions.
5. Group Travel: Grand Hotel Excelsior. With its spacious rooms and central location, this hotel is ideal for groups exploring the Amalfi Coast together.

3. Ravello: Hilltop Haven of Culture

Perched high above the coast, Ravello is known for its romantic gardens, stunning views, and rich cultural scene, including the famous Ravello Festival.

Best places to stay in Ravello:

1. Luxury: Belmond Hotel Caruso. Occupying an 11th-century palace, this luxurious hotel boasts an infinity pool that seems to merge with the sea below.
2. Couples Escape: Palazzo Avino. Known as the “Pink Palace,” this romantic hotel offers Michelin-starred dining and panoramic sea views.
3. Family-Friendly: Hotel Graal. With its spacious rooms and swimming pool, Hotel Graal provides a comfortable base for families in Ravello.

4. Atrani: The Hidden Gem

Often overlooked by tourists, Atrani is the smallest town in southern Italy and offers a more authentic, less crowded Amalfi Coast experience.

Best places to stay in Atrani:

1. Budget-Friendly: Palazzo Ferraioli. This affordable hotel offers modern rooms and a rooftop terrace with beautiful sea views.
2. Couples Escape: Atrani Apartments. These well-appointed apartments provide a home-away-from-home feel, perfect for couples wanting more space and privacy.

5. Praiano: Sunset Paradise

Located between Positano and Amalfi, Praiano is known for its spectacular sunsets and more relaxed atmosphere.

Best places to stay in Praiano:

1. Luxury: Casa Angelina. This modern, adults-only hotel offers minimalist luxury and breathtaking views of Positano and Capri.
2. Family-Friendly: Hotel Margherita. With its rooftop pool and family rooms, Hotel Margherita provides a comfortable stay for families in a quieter setting.

Two Towns to Avoid Staying

While the Amalfi Coast is generally beautiful, there are a couple of areas you might want to skip:

1. Vietri sul Mare: While known for its ceramics, it’s more industrial and lacks the picturesque charm of other Amalfi towns.
2. Maiori: Although it has the longest beach on the Amalfi Coast, the town was heavily rebuilt after a flood in 1954 and lacks the historic character of its neighbors.

Conclusion

From the glamorous cliffs of Positano to the cultural heights of Ravello, the Amalfi Coast offers a diverse array of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo exploration of Italian culture and beauty, you’ll find your perfect slice of paradise here.

Remember to book well in advance, especially for the peak summer season, and consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) for milder weather and smaller crowds.

As you plan your Amalfi Coast getaway, imagine yourself sipping limoncello on a terrace overlooking the sea, strolling through narrow medieval streets, or lounging on a sun-drenched beach. The Amalfi Coast isn’t just a destination; it’s a dream come true. So pack your bags, book your perfect stay, and prepare for an unforgettable journey along Italy’s most beautiful coastline!

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