No trip to Italy is complete without visiting the coast – but which coast? With beautiful dramatic landscapes, delicious food, colourful houses – a getaway in the Italian Riviera and a holiday in the Amalfi Coast will have a lot in common. Our customers often ask for guidance in deciding which coast to choose for their Italian getaway, but the truth is, you can’t go wrong with either.
The best way to choose is to base your decision on where you will be spending most of your trip is by using a smart itinerary builder! Travelling through Tuscany? The Riviera is for you. Headed south? The Amalfi is a must. But what will you see in each region? We broke it down for you – join us as we explore the luxurious Italian Riviera and the dramatic Amalfi Coast.
Italian Riviera
Situated between the French Riviera and Tuscany, Italy’s Riviera or Liguria is tucked between majestic mountains and the clear blue Mediterranean Sea. This lovely region is known for its great rocky beaches, gorgeous nature, and charming fishing villages, dotted all around. Grab a glass of Italian wine and join us as we explore the beautiful Italian Riviera.
Genoa
Start your trip in the beautiful ancient port city and a thriving 21st Century Riviera town, Genoa. It is a beautiful synthesis of old and new. Wander the caruggi, the narrow lanes of the Old City, soaking in centuries of Italian history. Obviously make sure to spend some time on the beach, where you can swim in the Mediterranean with majestic mountains behind you
Cinque Terre
You can’t go to Liguria without a visit to Cinque Terre! Hike the trail that runs between these five famous medieval fishing villages, trekking along rocky cliffs through unbelievable fields and gardens, looking out to the sea, surrounded by quaint colourful houses. Cinque Terre is truly an experience of a lifetime.
Portofino
After Cinque Terre, make your way to Portofino. Somewhat hidden thanks to its geography as a peninsula, Portofino offers a quieter experience. With yacht-filled harbours, boutique-lined boulevards, and absolutely beautiful beaches, Portofino is perfect for a day of relaxing on your busy trip.
Rapallo
Finlly, don’t miss the amazing Rapallo. With gorgeous beaches, pedestrian promenades, authentic restaurants, and even a charming 16th Century castle, Rapallo has been attracting visitors for centuries, and it is easy to see why. Rapallo is a lovely retreat for visitors to the Italian Riviera. It is also a great base for exploring nearby cities and towns, as it is well connected by public transportation.
Amalfi Coast
With crags plunging into the sea, pastel coloured houses clinging to the edges, rocky beaches, and ancient landmarks dotted around- the Amalfi Coast is simply magical. The journey between Salerno and Sorrento is known to be one of the world’s most beautiful roads. The Amalfi Coast has been popular for centuries – since Roman times – come and find out why.
Amalfi
Start your holiday in the Amalfi Coast in the town for which the region is named, Amalfi! Dating to the 9C when it was a major military power, Amalfi is the oldest town in the region, and has the historic sites to prove it. A stroll down a local street will feature tourist shops situated in thousand year old shipyards! Amalfi is also home to a majestic cathedral, whose door is over 1,000 years old.
Ravello
For the next stop on your holiday in the Amalfi Coast, make your way to a town favoured by artists throughout the years, Ravello. Ravello has hosted (and probably inspired) the likes of Wagner, DH Lawrence and Virginia Woolf. Situated on a clifftop overlooking the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is known for its dramatic views, and is increasingly popular among tourists for its breathtaking scenery. Wander through this beautiful town, enjoying the great views, and checking out the lovely gardens and charming architecture, making sure to stop for some local espresso.
Capri
No holiday in the Amalfi Coast is complete without a stop in Capri. Gorgeous beaches, hidden caves, ancient landmarks – Capri features everything that makes the Amalfi Coast special! Wander the streets with a gelato in hand, admiring the colourful houses, lovely gardens, and busy piazzas. Relax on the beach, explore some grottoes, go for a hike, and check out some archaeological sites. This amazing town has been popular for centuries for a reason – it truly has it all!
Sorrento
Head for this hills and check out lofty Sorrento. Situated at the top of a cliff overlooking the sea, Sorrento may not have good beaches, but the views are mind blowing! Located near Naples, Pompeii and Herculanium, Sorrento is a great starting point for some amazing hikes. A visit to Sorrento offers breathtaking scenery, lovely strolls along historic boulevards, amazing hikes, and beautiful boat rides!
Positano
Finally, pay a visit to the postcard perfect Positano. If you have seen photos of the Amalfi Coast, chances are they are of Positano. With its pastel coloured houses, seemingly tumbling into the sea, lush Mediterranean verdure, fashion boutiques, and vibrant beaches, Positano is a great town for a classy, relaxing Italian beach getaway.
We hope this answered all of your questions and helped you choose between the chic Italian Riviera and the wild Amalfi Coast. Where will you be spending your most of the time in your next European trip? In Italy? Let us know in the comments below!
