Top 5 things to do on the Amalfi Coast as a local
I am often asked, "Where is the best place to vacation on the Amalfi Coast?" or "What are the best places in Italy for a family vacation?"
Another common question is, "What are the best off-the-beaten-track honeymoon destinations in Italy?"
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most scenic places to visit in Europe. Skip the crowds and experience this breathtaking coastline the way the locals do. Stunning traditional towns, top-notch local restaurants, scenic hiking trails, historic cathedrals, fascinating museums, and thrilling ferry rides along the coastline are just some of the things that make the Amalfi Coast truly amazing.
The locals on the Amalfi Coast live simple, laid-back, yet deeply enriching lives—offering visitors a glimpse into an authentic and timeless Italian experience.
Let's explore top 5 things you can do like a local in the Amalfi Coast.
1. Indulge in local cuisine
Whether you are in Positano, Capri, Ravello, or any of the other towns on the beautiful Amalfi Coast, you will find a multitude of local restaurants serving the best of Italian cuisine, made with fresh, locally grown ingredients.
Many of these restaurants provide a tranquil, laid-back atmosphere and serve tantalizing dishes, including homemade pasta such as tagliatelle ragu, tomato basil rigatoni, and tomato gnocchi with truffle.
TIP: Check out our Italy restaurant guide for more ideas:
These are so many incredible restaurants where you can dine to fully immerse yourself in the Amalfi Coast way of life!
2. Go for a scenic boat ride
The Amalfi Coast is a traditional fishing region with several fishing villages, some of which are only accessible by boat. If you want to gain a deeper appreciation of this aspect of life on the Amalfi Coast, you’ll need to take a boat ride.
You can rent a private boat and have a local fisherman guide you through an amazing and unforgettable experience. They will take you to exclusive local villages and teach you the different fishing methods they use daily. You will also have the opportunity to eat your catch, which will be traditionally prepared by the local fishermen just for you!
3. Take a cultural tour
The Amalfi Coast has a long history and a rich cultural tradition. To gain a deeper understanding of the region, you can take part in one of the many cultural tours available.
A guided tour of the Herculaneum and Pompeii archaeological sites will provide excellent insight into the region’s past. In Pompeii, you will see relics of streets, forums, and villas built by the Romans over two thousand years ago. The Herculaneum site, another remnant of the Roman Empire, was once buried under mud and lava from a volcanic eruption. Here, you will find well-preserved wooden structures and household objects, preserved by the hardened lava.
These cultural tours offer a fascinating way to learn about and appreciate the rich history of this iconic coastal region.
4. Visit a local theatre
It is said that to truly understand a culture, you must engage with its performing arts. Attending a musical in one of the towns on the Amalfi Coast gives you that opportunity.
You will experience traditional folk songs and dances, such as the tarantella, performed in a way that reflects the rich history of the region. These events attract large numbers of locals, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes visitors feel right at home!
5. Hike the Amalfi Coast
Going for a walk or hike on one of the picturesque trails is a great way to explore the wonders of the Amalfi Coast. The Path of the Gods is the perfect trail to hike for panoramic views of the sea and magnificent vistas of the hamlets below. You will also be able to see Sant'Angelo a Tre Pizzi, the highest point in the region.
Alongside the Path of the Gods, some terraces and caves fall vertically from the cliffs to the sea. Overall, walking or hiking is the best way to experience and enjoy the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast. You should definitely include it as part of your Amalfi experience!