Let’s be honest: there are few places on Earth that have managed to stay as universally romanticised—and widely photographed—as the Amalfi Coast. It’s the kind of destination people claim they’re going to for the culture and the fresh seafood, but really they’re going because they want to wear linen pants and pretend they’ve gone off-grid when in fact they’re checking WhatsApp every six minutes from a sunbed in Positano. Which, to be fair, is still more romantic than most dating app experiences.
In 2025, the Amalfi Coast hasn’t reinvented itself—and why would it? It’s still unapologetically glamorous, staggeringly expensive in places, and genuinely breathtaking. The kind of place where your espresso costs more than a sandwich back home, but the view makes you forget you ever cared. It’s a little bit old money, a little bit chaotic, and every bit the fantasy people sell you in travel reels.
But what makes the Amalfi Coast really worth visiting now is the fact that it doesn’t care if you visit. It’s not desperate to win you over like newer “it” destinations. It’s been fabulous for centuries. This guide is for those who don’t need convincing—but do need to know exactly where to book the most beautiful room, eat the best lemon pasta, and wear the white dress they’ve been saving since February.
✈️ Getting There (Because No, There Is No Amalfi Airport)
You’ll likely fly into Naples, which sounds romantic until you realise the airport Starbucks line is longer than the flight from London. From there, it’s a 90-minute drive or a slightly nausea-inducing boat ride, depending on how committed you are to “the experience.”
The best option? Pre-book a car service that doesn’t reek of lemon-scented air freshener. Or if you're really leaning into it, do the train-to-Salerno and private boat combo. Bonus: arriving by sea looks excellent on Instagram Stories (not that you care, of course).
🛏️ Where to Stay (Because You're Not 22 Anymore)
The Amalfi Coast isn’t cheap. But that’s part of the allure—nothing says “I’m doing well” like a €19 limoncello at a hotel with monogrammed towels. Our article about the best hotels on the Amalfi coast here.
For the Main Character Energy:
Le Sirenuse, Positano
If the walls could talk, they’d name-drop harder than you do.
For Minimalism With a View:
Casa Angelina, Praiano
White-on-white interiors and the quietest pool you'll ever Instagram.
For Old Money Glamour:
Il San Pietro di Positano
The lift to the private beach alone is worth the price tag.
Editor’s Pick:
Borgo Santandrea, Amalfi
One of those places that’s so chic it barely has to try (but it does, quietly).
Our article about the best hotels on the Amalfi coast here.
🍝 Where to Eat (And Be Seen Eating, Obviously)
Yes, the pasta is good. But it’s also about who you might run into while ordering it.
The Romantic One
La Sponda
Lit by 400 candles, none of which are scented.
The One Locals Actually Go To
Trattoria da Gemma
You may cry over the lemon pasta, and it’s not just the carbs.
The Fancy One in Ravello
Rossellinis
Perfect for those evenings when you dress for dinner. Like, really dress.
🛥️ What to Do (Other Than “Just Chill”)
You will inevitably end up lounging on a sunbed wondering what it would cost to live here forever. But in between those moments of existential bliss, do this:
Charter a Boat to Capri
You’ll stop at caves, swim off the boat, and realise your phone has no signal. Bliss.Walk Through Ravello’s Gardens
They were made for writers and poets. Or, in your case, the Notes app.Beach Clubs: Arienzo is where the cool people go. La Scogliera is where the really cool people go.
If You Must Hike: The Path of the Gods
The views are incredible. Your thighs will never forgive you.
🧳 What to Pack (Hint: Nothing Practical)
The fashion vibe here is “I live in Milan and forgot to book return flights.” Think linen that whispers, “this costs more than your rent,” sunglasses that hide jet lag, and at least one white dress you’ll panic about spilling wine on.
Don’t forget:
SPF (obviously)
Swimsuits that double as tops
Something floaty and ridiculous for dinner
And sandals that don’t scream tourist
See: What to Pack for the Amalfi Coast If You’re Not a Backpacker [link]
🛍️ Where to Shop (You’ll Regret Not Buying the Ceramics)
There’s not a Zara in sight, thank god. Instead, you’ll find:
Ceramics in Ravello: Hand-painted, heavy, and hard to fit in a carry-on
Linen in Positano: If it looks like something an Italian grandmother might wear, buy it
Custom Sandals in Capri: You choose the leather, they fit them to your feet, you feel like Jackie O
💬 Final Thoughts
The Amalfi Coast hasn’t changed all that much. And that’s the point. It still smells like lemons and sunscreen. You’ll still spend €12 on espresso and not blink. And you’ll leave already planning your return, because in a world of newness, the Amalfi Coast knows the power of staying the same.
