Planning a trip to Italy’s most famous coastline but feeling lost about where to go?
The Amalfi Coast stretches 50 kilometers along dramatic cliffs, hiding distinct towns that each offer something different.
While most tourists flock to Positano and Amalfi, you could be missing out on quiet fishing villages, hilltop wine towns, and hidden beaches.
From the pastel houses of Positano to the authentic charm of Cetara’s fishing harbor, each town has its own personality.
Some offer luxury resorts with infinity pools, others serve fresh seafood caught that morning. You’ll find everything from Roman ruins to lemon groves.
This guide covers all official Amalfi Coast towns, helping you choose the perfect spots for your trip and avoid the crowds.
How Many Amalfi Coast Towns Are There?
If you ask locals, travel guides, or even Google, you might get slightly different answers, but most agree there are 13 main towns that make up the Amalfi Coast. These are the ones officially part of the UNESCO-listed stretch of coastline in southern Italy.
The Amalfi Coast runs for about 50 kilometers (31 miles) along the Sorrentine Peninsula. Each town here is unique. Some are perched high on cliffs with jaw-dropping views, others are tucked into hidden coves, and a few are set inland among vineyards and lemon groves.
The “big names” — like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello — often get all the attention. But the smaller villages, such as Atrani, Cetara, or Scala, are just as beautiful and a lot quieter.
You can visit them all, but you’ll need time (and patience with the winding roads). Many travelers choose 3–4 towns as a base and explore the rest by bus, ferry, or car. That way, you get a taste of the coast without feeling rushed.
The short answer? Thirteen towns. Endless beauty. And plenty of reasons to come back.
13 Amalfi Coast Towns: Complete Travel Guide
SOURCE: Travel and Leisure
Most travelers know about Positano and Amalfi, but the coast actually includes official towns, each with its own character and charm.
1. Positano
Positano is the Amalfi Coast’s showstopper, famous for pastel-colored houses stacked on steep cliffs that tumble down to the sparkling blue sea.
Narrow lanes twist between boutiques, gelato shops, and cafés, creating a romantic, almost movie-like atmosphere. The beaches are lively, and the views are unforgettable, especially at sunset when the town glows in warm light. Yes, it’s busy in peak season, but it’s pure magic.
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Major attractions: Spiaggia Grande, Church of Santa Maria Assunta, Path of the Gods
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How to get there: Ferry from Naples or Sorrento, or SITA bus from Sorrento (parking is scarce)
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Food & drinks to try: Fresh seafood pasta, lemon sorbet served in a lemon, limoncello spritz
2. Praiano
Praiano offers the same stunning coastal views as Positano but with a calmer, more laid-back vibe. It stretches along the cliffs with quiet beaches, scenic piazzas, and some of the best sunsets on the coast.
Here you can enjoy the local feel without battling large tourist crowds, making it perfect for a relaxing stay. It’s also a great base for hiking and exploring.
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Major attractions: Marina di Praia, Church of San Gennaro, Sentiero degli Dei trailhead
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How to get there: SITA bus from Amalfi or Positano, limited summer ferries
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Food & drinks to try: Grilled fish at seaside trattorias, scialatielli ai frutti di mare, local white wine
3. Conca dei Marini
This small fishing village is quiet, charming, and blessed with crystal-clear waters. It’s most famous for the Emerald Grotto, where sunlight turns the sea a magical shade of green.
Away from the main tourist trail, Conca dei Marini offers peace, historic watchtowers, and a slower pace of life. Perfect for a short visit or a peaceful escape.
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Major attractions: Emerald Grotto, Torre Saracena
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How to get there: Short bus or taxi ride from Amalfi, or by boat
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Food & drinks to try: Sfogliatella Santa Rosa (invented here), grilled calamari, local limoncello
4. Furore
Furore isn’t a typical clustered village; instead, it’s a dramatic stretch of coastline dotted with houses and one breathtaking fjord. The Fiordo di Furore is a natural inlet with a tiny beach, framed by towering cliffs and a scenic bridge above.
This spot is a photographer’s dream and a must-see for its unique beauty. The surrounding roads offer jaw-dropping views of the coast.
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Major attractions: Fiordo di Furore, panoramic coastal road views
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How to get there: Bus or car from Amalfi or Positano (very limited parking)
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Food & drinks to try: Anchovy pasta, fried anchovies, local red wines
5. Amalfi
Once a powerful maritime republic, Amalfi is now a lively seaside hub and one of the most popular towns on the coast. Its grand cathedral dominates the main square, while charming alleys hide shops, bakeries, and cafés.
The waterfront is always buzzing, with ferries, fishing boats, and gelato lovers soaking up the sun. It’s a place where history and coastal charm meet.
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Major attractions: Amalfi Cathedral, Museo della Carta, Piazza del Duomo
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How to get there: Ferry from Salerno, Naples, or Positano, or by bus/car
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Food & drinks to try: Delizia al limone cake, Amalfi-style scialatielli pasta, iced coffee with lemon
6. Atrani
Atrani sits just next to Amalfi but feels like a different world — quieter, smaller, and wonderfully authentic. It’s made up of narrow streets, colorful houses, and a sandy beach where locals gather.
The small main square is the heart of town, perfect for sipping coffee and people-watching. A hidden gem just steps away from the crowds.
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Major attractions: Piazza Umberto I, Church of San Salvatore de’ Birecto
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How to get there: 5-minute walk from Amalfi or bus stop nearby
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Food & drinks to try: Fried pizza (pizza fritta), local anchovy dishes, espresso
7. Ravello
Perched high above the sea, Ravello is known for its elegant villas, lush gardens, and sweeping views. This peaceful hilltop town has a rich cultural scene, including its famous music festival.
With fewer tourists and no beaches, it’s a place to slow down, enjoy the art, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. Romantic and refined, Ravello is pure Amalfi magic.
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Major attractions: Villa Cimbrone, Villa Rufolo, Ravello Festival
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How to get there: Bus or taxi from Amalfi (20 minutes uphill)
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Food & drinks to try: Handmade gnocchi, fresh mozzarella, local sparkling wine
8. Minori
Minori is small but full of flavor, known for its pasta-making traditions, lemon groves, and famous pastries. Roman ruins add a touch of history to this foodie-friendly seaside spot.
It’s a quieter, more local alternative to nearby Amalfi, with a laid-back charm that makes it easy to relax. Perfect for those who love both history and dessert.
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Major attractions: Roman Villa, Sal De Riso pastry shop
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How to get there: Ferry from Salerno or Amalfi, or by bus
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Food & drinks to try: Ndunderi pasta (local specialty), lemon granita, ricotta-filled pastries
9. Maiori
Maiori has the longest sandy beach on the Amalfi Coast, making it ideal for families and sun-seekers. The town feels more spacious than the cliffside villages, with a lovely promenade lined with cafés and gelaterias.
It’s lively in summer but still less crowded than Positano or Amalfi. Great for beach days and evening strolls.
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Major attractions: Castle of San Nicola de Thoro-Plano, seafront promenade
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How to get there: Ferry or bus from Salerno or Amalfi
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Food & drinks to try: Lemon risotto, stuffed anchovies, almond biscuits
10. Cetara
Cetara is a working fishing village with an authentic, down-to-earth feel. Famous for anchovies and tuna, it’s a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Mornings bring colorful fishing boats into the harbor, and evenings are perfect for dining on the day’s fresh catch. It’s charming, quiet, and delicious.
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Major attractions: Torre di Cetara, fishing harbor
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How to get there: Ferry from Salerno or bus along the coastal road
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Food & drinks to try: Colatura di alici (anchovy sauce) pasta, grilled tuna, local white wine
11. Vietri sul Mare
Vietri is the colorful gateway to the Amalfi Coast, celebrated for its handmade ceramics. Shops burst with bright pottery, and the wide beach is perfect for a swim.
As one of the less-touristy towns, it’s a great place to experience authentic coastal life while picking up beautiful souvenirs.
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Major attractions: Museo della Ceramica, Marina di Vietri
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How to get there: Train to Salerno, then bus or taxi
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Food & drinks to try: Fresh seafood risotto, lemon gelato, Amalfi Coast wines
12. Scala
Scala is the oldest town on the Amalfi Coast, sitting quietly in the hills opposite Ravello. It’s rich in history, with medieval churches and peaceful hiking trails.
Far from the crowds, it offers fresh air, valley views, and a slower pace that’s perfect for unwinding.
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Major attractions: Duomo di San Lorenzo, Valle delle Ferriere hiking trails
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How to get there: Bus or car from Ravello (10 minutes)
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Food & drinks to try: Chestnut cake (castagnaccio), handmade pasta with herbs, local red wine
13. Tramonti
Nestled inland, Tramonti is surrounded by vineyards, chestnut forests, and lemon groves.
This is the place for wine tasting, countryside walks, and discovering rural Amalfi traditions. It’s calm, authentic, and a refreshing break from the coastal crowds.
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Major attractions: Local wineries, lemon trails and countryside walks
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How to get there: Best reached by car from Maiori or Minori
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Food & drinks to try: Limoncello from local lemons, wood-fired pizza, homemade wine
Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast
SOURCE: CityWonders
The Amalfi Coast has something for every budget, from simple guesthouses to five-star resorts.
Budget
If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll find the best value in towns like Maiori, Minori, Cetara, and Atrani.
These places offer family-run bed and breakfasts (B&Bs), small hotels, and apartments where you can cook your own meals. They’re less crowded and still have plenty of charm, plus easy connections to the bus or ferry.
Mid-Range
For a mid-range stay, Amalfi, Praiano, and Vietri sul Mare are great choices.
You can expect comfortable hotels with sea views, friendly service, and a good mix of restaurants nearby. These towns also make it easy to explore the rest of the coast without spending too much on transport.
Luxury
If you’re looking for luxury, Positano and Ravello are hard to beat. Positano offers cliffside resorts, private terraces, and infinity pools overlooking the sea. Ravello is known for luxury villas and stunning gardens high above the coast. Both provide world-class service and unforgettable scenery.
No matter your budget, book early, especially in summer. Accommodation fills up quickly, and planning ahead means you can find the perfect spot for your style and price range.
Conclusion
The Amalfi Coast’s towns each tell their own story. You’ve seen how Positano dazzles with its cliffside beauty, while Cetara keeps traditions alive in its fishing boats. Ravello offers peace high above the sea, and Tramonti hides among vineyards.
So what’s next for your Italian getaway? Don’t try to see everything in one trip. Pick 3-4 towns that match what you want most – beach time, hiking trails, or quiet villages. Book your stay early, especially for summer visits.
The winding coastal roads connect these gems, but each stop rewards you with something special. Your perfect Amalfi Coast experience is waiting. Which town will you visit first?
Ready to explore more Italian destinations? Check out our complete 2-week Italy travel guide for your next experience.