Amalfi Coast

National Geographic picked in 2009

Country : Italy

Currency : Euro

Big Mac Index : 4.76

Travel Safety : Moderate Risk

The Amalfi Coast is a stunning coastal stretch located in southern Italy, known for its picturesque towns, steep cliffs, sparkling waters and delicious cuisine. The coast is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors every year. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Italy. Getting there: The nearest airports are Naples International Airport and Rome Fiumicino Airport. From Naples, you can take a direct bus or a train to Sorrento, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. If you are coming from Rome, you can take a train to Naples and then switch to a local train or a bus to get to Sorrento. It takes around 2~3 hours. Once you reach Sorrento, you can take a bus or a ferry to reach the towns of the Amalfi Coast. Buses are the most common mode of transportation on the coast and they run frequently between the towns. You can buy the tickets at the local bus stations or on board the bus. The ferry service is available from April to October and it provides a scenic and comfortable way to explore the coast. Things to see and do: - Visit the town of Amalfi, which is the largest town on the coast and known for its beautiful cathedral and charming streets. - Take a boat tour to explore the coastline and see the famous Faraglioni rocks, which are three sea stacks located off the coast of Capri. - Visit the town of Positano, known for its pastel-colored houses and narrow winding streets. - Take a hike on the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods), a scenic trail that offers panoramic views of the coast. - Visit Ravello, a hilltop town known for its gardens and villas such as the Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone When to visit: The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is from April to June and from September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer compared to the peak summer months of July and August. The summer months can be extremely hot and crowded with high prices for accommodation and activities. The winter months are also not recommended for visiting the coast. Tips: - Wear comfortable shoes as the streets in the towns can be steep and narrow. - Be prepared for a lot of stairs and hills if you plan to explore the towns on foot. - Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be very strong. - Try the local cuisine, such as seafood, pasta with seafood and Limoncello, a traditional liqueur made from lemons.

Photo - Unsplash: Tom Podmore