There’s something instantly enchanting about arriving in Amalfi. The pastel buildings clinging to the cliffs, the blue sea stretching out below, and a warm breeze carrying hints of citrus through the air.

Even the drive there is stunning!

There are an unbelievable number of places along the coast you could stop and just stay and be mesmerized…but then you’d never see anything.

Wandering the Colorful Lanes: Once you arrive in Amalfi, start your visit with a moment by the beach. Feel the sea breeze, take in the view, and let yourself settle into the pace of the town. When you’re ready, wander up into the heart of Amalfi, where narrow lanes and hidden corners are waiting to be explored.

Amalfi’s charming streets wind through a maze of steep stairways and narrow alleys. Vibrant bougainvillea spills over balconies and bright, sunlit corners invite you to linger. Along the way, you’ll discover tucked-away boutiques, local artisan shops, and family-run cafés. They offer everything from handmade ceramics to fine Italian leather goods. One of my favorite shops was the one below. It was small but filled with precious, specially crafted items. One of my absolute favorites was a tiny gem of a shop I found below. It was small but packed with beautiful, thoughtfully crafted treasures. The standout for me? A box of Italian stationery—engraved, elegant, and unlike anything I’ve seen back home. My only regret is that I didn’t buy more. If (when) I return, I’d linger longer and scoop up a few extra boxes. I’ve searched for something similar in the States ever since… but nothing quite compares.

Keep an eye out for hand-painted ceramic plates, delicate linen scarves, and cheerful bottles of local Limoncello lining the shop shelves. And if you haven’t tried Limoncello before, well, you’re in for a treat (hopefully!). My first taste was back in 2015, during our Round-the-World journey with our kids. We were in Florence, chose the wrong restaurant, and… let’s just say I was not a fan. But on this trip, I gave it another shot, and it totally won me over! Moral of the story? Don’t give up on your first sip. Sometimes it takes a second or third try (or a better restaurant).

Keep your camera handy. Each doorway, balcony, and stairway is a picture waiting to be captured, especially when something unexpected (perhaps a local donkey making its way through!) comes sauntering up or down the stairs.

And make sure you don’t rush through Amalfi, just to check it off your list. Take time to notice the smaller things. I was especially drawn to the solid wooden doors and the intricate details I saw, like these beautifully crafted door knockers, each one a little work of art

A Stop at the Duomo: The Cathedral of St. Andrew (Duomo di Amalfi) is undeniably the town’s crown jewel, rising above the piazza with its dramatic striped façade, sweeping staircase, and towering bronze doors. It’s a showstopper, and makes for some truly stunning photos.

While we didn’t venture inside (tempting as it was), a few in our group did, and from what we heard, the mosaics and quiet cloister are just as beautiful as the exterior promises. For us, the pull to keep exploring the winding streets of Amalfi was just too strong! Or was it the Gelato?

Gelato (and More) Breaks
You can’t explore Amalfi on an empty stomach. Treat yourself to a scoop (or two) of creamy gelato, lemon is the local star, but don’t miss fig, blood orange, or pistachio. Grab your cone and find a sunny spot on the steps or by the harbor to savor every last drop.

Waterfront Wonders: After exploring the charming town, picking up a few fun gifts, and enjoying yet another irresistible gelato, we made our way back to the water. There’s truly something magnetic about it. We couldn’t resist snapping a few more photos of the waves gently kissing the shore. If we had a bit more time, we’d consider jumping on a small ferry to take in the stunning coastal views that you can only get from the water.

Beach Time Under the Sun
Amalfi’s beach may be pebbly, but its charm is endless. During the summer, you may want to rent a lounger at a nearby beach club or sink your toes into the smooth stones. When you’re ready, take a dip in the clear, cool water, views of the cliffs all around make every swim feel exciting.

Amalfi is the kind of place you’ll want to photograph from dawn until dusk. From the winding lanes to the sun‑kissed sea, every snapshot tells a story of coastal Italian life. Pack your best walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and of course, your camera. There’s no end to what you’ll discover. For more information on our itineraries, feel free to email us at dtgainor@gmail.com or visit Global Getaways to learn more about who we are and how we work.