Compromised of 13 town and villages, this region was originally a maritime power between the 9th…read moreand 13th centuries, with notable merchant families and political affluence prevalent. Over centuries as their power waned, the sites became fishing hamlets and subsequently now tourism destinations due to the scenic beauty of their natural landscapes.
These mostly quaint municipalities are: Amalfi, Atrani, Cetara, Conca de' Marini, Furore, Maiori, Minori, Positano, Praiano, Ravello, Scala, Tramonti, and Vietri sul Mare.
Many are located along the water, others like Ravello, Tramonti, and Furore, are perched on the slopes of the Lattari Mountains, and to reach them you need to take public or private transport up the winding and narrow cliffside roads. Personally, my recommendation is to pass on driving yourself, unless you like tackling these types of harrowing driving terrains. Parking is not easy to find and many town centers are pedestrian only so you have to get out and walk anyways. For the coastside towns, travel by ferry is a more convenient and lovely way to see the waterfronts and mountains.
The unique topography of the cliffside towns led to cultivation of lemons, citrus and vineyards, which have become synonymous with the region, and during the warmer months you will see citrus and especially lemons everywhere! EVERYWHERE. Walking down the street in Sorrento, after a whiff of motorcycle engine exhaust, the breeze carries a lemon scent when you walk close to one of what feels like hundreds of lemon orchards - in public parks, private gardens and sometimes just randomly along the street. Shops carry fresh lemons the size of grapefruits and I even saw one the size of my head (no exaggeration, see pic!) and every type of lemon souvenir you could imagine under the sun, edible and non-edible. Of course local cuisine incorporates lemons into their dishes too!
Amazing food can be enjoyed at many restaurants here, though I've mentioned in separate reviews, these will be pricier than your average Italian city/town. You certainly pay for the views and there's a never-ending slew of spots to catch a breathtaking panorama.
And speaking of a panoramic views, if you're into hiking, Il Sentiero degli Dei (the Path of the Gods) is a moderate trail that winds around the higher vantage points connecting Agerola to Positano, with...you guessed it...stellar viewpoints along the way.
For more info:
https://www.positano.com/en/p/amalfi-coast
