Have you heard of Amalfi in Italy? It's a fantastic town on the beautiful Amalfi Coast in the southern part of the country. Imagine discovering hidden treasures filled with amazing things while exploring the lucid waters. Well, Amalfi just offers that. It has lots of history, amazing views, and loads of fun things to do. If you just want to chill or have an adventure, Amalfi's got you covered! It's like finding a special place where you can enjoy beautiful sights and have a blast, no matter what you like. Now, let's check out some cool things to do on the Amalfi coast!
Top places to visit in Amalfi
- Duomo di Amalfi
- Valle delle Ferriere
- Museo della Carta
- Chiostro del Paradiso
- Valle dei Mulini
Duomo di Amalfi
Towering over Piazza Duomo is the ancient Amalfi Cathedral, also known as Duomo di Sant'Andrea. This cathedral dates back to the 9th century and showcases striking medieval architecture and artefacts of religious significance. Duomo di Amalfi is dedicated to the apostle Saint Andrew, whose relics lie preserved in this place. Several additions and replacements have been made to the structure over the centuries, but its original facade has been left untouched.
Things to Do at Duomo di Amalfi
- Climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the coastal surroundings.
- Explore nearby sites such as the Cloister of Paradise and Saint Andrew's Fountain.
- Attend a church service (a daily affair) or visit the crypt displaying Saint Andrew's relics.
Valle delle Ferriere
A mesmerising natural reserve near Amalfi, Valle delle Ferriere is a haven for nature enthusiasts with its lush forests, hiking trails, and charming waterfalls. The Ferriere Valley is one of the 41 biogenetic reserves in Italy. The valley is a deep one, mostly virgin and lush, and begins in the mountains of Scala, ending some 6 kilometres further down in the territory of Amalfi.
Things to Do at Valle delle Ferriere
- Go for a 90-minute hike up to Scala and back.
- The place has several waterfalls where you can swim, and the water is calm.
- Explore the ancient ruins. Many abandoned ruins are in the vicinity, making it an excellent spot to explore.
- Valley de Ferriere is home to various species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and ornithologists.
Museo della Carta
Also known as the Amalfi Paper Museum, the Museo della Carta delves into the history and craft of paper-making, showcasing a functioning paper mill. It is a kilometre away from the centre of town and can be reached on foot or by bus. Entry to the museum is not free, though, and you have to sign in for a guided tour to understand the various nuances of paper-making.
Things to Do at Museo della Carta
- Take a guided tour and learn everything about paper-making techniques, from ancient to modern technology.
- Witness the art of paper production firsthand and drink in the unique aroma of paper mills.
- Participate in workshops and shop for handmade paper products to help the local craftsmen.
Chiostro del Paradiso
Translated into English as the Cloister of Paradise, these magnificent Moorish-style cloisters are located to the left of Amalfi's cathedral. They still contain the remnants of 13th-century frescoes that were built to house the tombs of Amalfi’s prominent citizens. The place showcases a number of tall, slender Arabic arches around a central garden supported by 120 marble columns. The crypt containing the relics of St Andrew the Apostle is located nearby.
Things to Do at Chiostro del Paradiso
- Admire the beauty of medieval Moorish architecture.
- Relax amidst the peaceful garden setting.
- Observe religious artefacts and learn more about Sarkofag-type stone coffins.
- Attend cultural events or concerts hosted in the facility on a regular basis.
Velle dei Mulini
This valley has scenic beauty and trails of ruins of ancient paper mills. It is an easy hiking spot with cliffs and views of lush greenery, home to the fig, cypress, and olive trees. There are several waterfalls too. The history of this place dates back to the Roman era, followed by the Middle Ages and then the ironworks. The Industrial Revolution led to the decline of the iron industry in this area. The hike stretches for about 3 kilometres and the trail is easy to follow.
Things to Do at Valle dei Mulini
- Go hiking; it takes about 90 minutes for an entire trek along lush greenery and historical ruins.
- Enjoy swimming in the waterfalls where the water is pleasant for a dip.
- The empty areas and quietness of Valle dei Mulini make it a beautiful place to pack some lunch and enjoy the food sitting on nature's lap
Best Time to Visit Amalfi
The best time to visit Amalfi is in May. Think of sunny days that aren't too hot and not too cold. It's just perfect, like a dream! During May, there aren't too many people around, so you can enjoy the pretty sights without being interrupted by noisy crowds. Also, flowers bloom all over, making everything colourful and extra beautiful!
Travel Insurance for Amalfi
Since Italy is a Schengen member nation, you will need insurance as coverage in case of any health issues or accidents. Travel insurance is akin to a safety net that helps with medical expenses if something unexpected happens, such as the need to visit a doctor or buy medicine. Ensure the insurance covers emergencies such as loss of baggage, flight delays, or cancellations besides accidents to enjoy a pleasant journey. You can easily avail of travel insurance online but use due diligence in choosing the one that suits your requirements.