The Best Honeymoon Ideas in Italy’s Amalfi Coast The Best Honeymoon Ideas in Italy’s Amalfi Coast

The Best Honeymoon Ideas in Italy’s Amalfi Coast

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Why go? The Amalfi Coast’s picturesque, colorful villages rising above the Mediterranean Sea are as romantic as it gets. Add delectable cuisine, wine, and enticing Italian charm to the mix and you’ve got the perfect honeymoon formula (and a great alternative or supplement to visiting the big cities like Florence and Rome).

Best ideas: Get lost on foot, weaving through small hilly villages and finding hidden restaurants and surprise viewpoints perfect for a romantic selfie. Take a boat ride to see the coast from the crashing waves of the Mediterranean. Taste limoncello, limon gelato and, well, limon everything.

Good to know: Vacationing on the Amalfi Coast isn’t cheap, so plan your budget accordingly. Be ready to constantly climb up and down steps, ramps, and hills. Parking on hilly streets may be difficult and driving the winding curves between villages takes the utmost concentration, so only rent a car if you’re up for the challenge.

This emblematic Italian coastline is one of the most beautiful regions in the world, but a honeymoon here takes some organization. It may be tough to decide exactly which of the many coastal villages to visit or stay in, where to have your base, or if you’d like to stay in a number of different areas or just one. You’ll definitely be moving around a lot if you want to see the best of everything.

One thing is for sure, though. If you’re after an all-inclusive, cookie-cutter beach resort, this is not the honeymoon for you. Most of the Amalfi region’s beaches are pebbly, and thanks to the cliff-embedded, craggly landscape, you won’t find a sprawling chain resort in sight. And who wants to do a boring all-inclusive in a place where you can find delicious Italian cuisine at every turn? What you will find instead of these resorts are charming boutique villas, serene B&Bs, and endless Italian history and culture at every turn — assuming you can visit outside of the busy tourist season, where hordes of both local and foreign visitors descend on the region.

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Traveling & Getting Around the Amalfi Coast

If you’re hoping to eat excessive amounts of pasta with fresh seafood, discover medieval churches and fishermen’s coves, and walk down stone staircases and rocky caves to discover secret beaches, Amalfi is your spot.

Avoid the heart of summer and the depths of winter at all costs, when crowds and inclement weather can ruin a honeymoon. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons — May/June and September/October — when you can still enjoy sunny weather on a much emptier beach. Keep in mind that many restaurants and hotels will close between November and March/April, especially the farther into the Amalfi Coast you go as well as on the islands of Capri and Ischia. In Naples, restaurants and hotels are open year-round.

Start by flying to Italy from the U.S. Nonstop options are readily available from a number of cities to Rome and Milan — East Coasters can fly nonstop seasonally from Newark to Naples between May and October — then take a train to Naples to begin your journey. Once in Naples, the honeymoon possibilities are endless. Depending on how you’d like to explore the Amalfi Coast, you can traverse the region by ferry, train, bus, or rental car, or simply hire a driver.

Italians in the region are warm and friendly, and many speak English, especially in touristy villages along the coast. Knowing a couple of essential phrases in Italian may be beneficial — words like birra, vino and, of course, the classic phrase to help you score a room upgrade, free drink, or simply a smile “It’s our honeymoon”: “Siamo in viaggio di nozze” or “Siamo in luna di miele.”

Honeymooning in the Amalfi Coast: Pros & Cons

Pros: 

  • The scenery is absolutely stunning and extremely romantic.
  • You won’t find anything like it in the U.S.
  • The food and wine are incredible, albeit pricey.

Cons: 

  • Transportation can be complicated.
  • Certain villages and islands (Capri and Positano) can be really expensive.
  • You won’t get an all-inclusive, sprawling resort vibe (but this could be a pro, depending on your travel style).
  • Accessibility is poor, with lots of steps and hilly, cobblestoned streets.
  • There aren’t large sandy beaches, and even the sandy beaches are pebbly.

Amalfi Coast Villages & Islands

There are so many small villages to visit, as well as lots to do inland, including hiking, agricultural stays, or visiting vineyards, but the most popular honeymoon spots are listed below. Getting around the coast can be a little tricky if you aren’t experienced with driving tiny Italian manual-transmission vehicles around winding, cliffside curves and parallel parking on steep hills. Getting a driver to transport you between the Coast and Naples (or Sorrento) may be your best bet. Trains and buses are also available. Ferries run from Naples to many of the villages and it’s easy to reach Ischia and Capri by ferry, which run from Naples and Sorrento often. If you choose to make your base a spot like Positano, Ravello or Amalfi, the other villages can easily be explored by daytime boat trips. These can be done via group ferry or private boat tour, depending on your budget.

  • Naples

    Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Neil Howard)

    If you love Italian culture, you may want to start with a day in Naples, since this is the town you’ll most likely be arriving in when starting your Amalfi Coast honeymoon. Typically shunned by American travelers for being too dangerous and ugly, this underrated city just may surprise you — Naples’ true beauty lies within its authentic southern Italian ambience and local vibe. Taking some time to explore the frantic Spanish Quarter or wander through the hilltop Sant’Elmo castle will set your honeymoon off to a great start. The city is actually quite safe, just watch your belongings and use street smarts as you would in any other major city. 

  • Capri

    80076 Capri, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
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    (Photo by vgm8383)

    For a splurge, spend some time on the island of Capri, a playground for Italy’s elite — with prices to match. It’s one of the most luxurious places to visit in Italy, and you’ll find lots of five-star hotels and fancy restaurants.

  • Ischia

    80077 Ischia, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Pululante)

    For a completely different vibe, check out the quiet, local island of Ischia, where Italian families often spend their summers. Much more affordable than Capri and overflowing with local flavor and culture, this is the spot to visit if you’re on a budget or just want a more relaxed, unpretentious trip. Day trips to the nearby tiny island of Procida are a must.

  • Sorrento

    80067 Sorrento, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Nick Fewings)

    Many like to use Sorrento as a base for their Amalfi Coast travels, or you could simply spend a night or two there before heading down the coast. 

  • Positano

    84017 Positano, SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Ricardo Gomez Angel)

    Positano is one of the most beautiful (and priciest) coastal villages to stay in. It’s a solid base for exploring the other locales, and you’ll have plenty to see, drink, and eat here. 

  • Ravello

    84010 Ravello, SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Daniel Enchev)

    A picturesque town known for the arts, culturally minded honeymooners should visit in the summer during the Ravello Festival to see concerts and other musical events.

  • Praiano

    84010 Praiano, SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Maria Bobrova)

    A smaller, quieter fishing village, this town has a little sandy beach and some gorgeous Italian churches. 

  • Amalfi

    84011 Amalfi, SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Gregory Smirnov)

    Amalfi is perfect for history buffs. A highlight is the Amalfi Cathedral, a medieval structure dating back to the 9th century. Even if you don’t stay here overnight, make sure to spend a day here to walk around. 

  • Best Attractions & Activities in the Amalfi Coast

  • Trekking

    Via Pizzillo, 16, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Mihael Grmek)

    Hike along the Path of the Gods, a route that offers expansive views of both the Mediterranean and the Lattari Mountains. It goes on for about four miles, and the best portion to explore is near Nocello, where you’ll find caves, pine forests, and breathtaking glimpses of the coastline below.

  • Take a Boat Tour

    84011 Amalfi, SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Patrick Schneider)

    Public boats will take you along with other tourists to and from the different villages along the coast, while you can always opt to rent a boat or take a private boat tour. The most romantic option would be to cruise around for the day on your own, but with rides between villages on the public boats costing around $10, the ferry is an easy, pleasant option for couples on a budget. 

  • Cheese Tasting

    Via delle Rose, 91, 80063 Piano di Sorrento NA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Caseificio Michelangelo)

    Head to the famous Caseificio Michelangelo to sample local Sorrentino cheeses. Enjoy a tour and a cheese-making demonstration followed by the most anticipated part, sampling Italian cheeses like mozzarella, caciocavallo, provolone del monaco, and caciotta. 

  • Wine Tasting

    Via Pestella, 70, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Swirl the Glass)

    Taste delicious Italian wines on winery tours around the region with Swirl the Glass. If you prefer an evening wine experience, the company also offers tastings in Positano either at a restaurant or, for an even more romantic experience, in your own villa or hotel suite. 

  • Hit the Beach

    Fornillo Beach, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Mihael Grmek)

    While many of Amalfi’s beaches are pebbly, there are a few worth visiting. Fornillo Beach in Positano, pictured above,  is a favorite, as are Castiglione near Ravello and Marina di Praia in Praiano. Note that you’ll have to walk down a lot of steps to reach these beaches, and of course back up them afterward. 

  • The Blue Grotto

    Blue Grotto, 80071 Anacapri, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Capri motorboats)

    One of Capri’s most famous tourist attractions, you can explore this sea cave by rowboat when the waves are calm, usually from April to October. Motoscafisti offers tours of the cave as well as other boat tours around the island, with prices starting around $17 per person for a one-hour tour. Exploring the Blue Grotto is the most popular experience, but consider visiting the White, Green, and Coral grottos, which aren’t as famous or large, but have fewer tourists and crowds of boats. 

  • Castle Adventures

    80077 Ischia, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
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    (Photo of Castello Aragonese courtesy of Guiseppe6073)

    Explore medieval Aragonese Castle, which stands on a tiny volcanic islet connected to Ischia by a causeway. Both the inside and outside of the castle are spectacular, and the views of Ischia and beyond once you hike to the top of it are truly stunning. Not to worry, there’s an elevator if you need it. 

  • Visit the Amalfi Cathedral

    Piazza Duomo, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Guiseppe Milo)

    You’ll encounter beauty at every turn when wandering the streets of Amalfi, including its glorious Cathedral, which towers above the small town and sparkling sea. With its impressive staircase and striped stone facade, the exterior is just as intriguing as its interior. 

  • Tour the Area by Vespa or Fiat

    Piazza Vanvitelli, 33, 80129 Napoli NA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Photo by La So)

    For a real Italian adventure, zip around the Amalfi Coast with Vespa Tour Amalfi (or do it via Fiat if scooters make you nervous). If you’d rather drive your bride around yourself, rent your own Vespa with Amalfi Coast Rental

  • Villa Rufolo

    Piazza Duomo, 84010 Ravello SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Derbrauni)

    Visit Ravello’s famous cultural center, complete with charming outdoor gardens and sea views. If you’re lucky, you may be able to attend a concert there during the Ravello Festival.

  • Take an Italian Cooking Class

    Via Mauro Comite, 48, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Villa Maria Cooking Course)

    Learn to make traditional Italian delights during a cooking class at Villa Maria. Classes range from cooking a full meal (starter, main and dessert) to the pizza experience, where you’ll learn how to create the perfect Neapolitan pie. 

  • Pompeii and Herculaneum

    80045 Pompei, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
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    (Photo of Pompeii courtesy of Takver)

    Situated between Naples and Sorrento, these ancient Roman cities that were buried in a volcanic eruptions will thrill history buffs. 

  • Mount Vesuvius

    Mount Vesuvius, 80044 Ottaviano, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Greg Willis)

    This volcano that overlooks Naples is a sight to see — and lots of fun to hike. If you’re more about drinking than trekking, there are several vineyards along the mountain to explore as well. The unique wine cultivated on Mount Vesuvius is named Lacryma Christi, which translates to Christ’s tears. The story goes that when Christ cried, his tears fell on the volcano and helped the vines grow. 

  • Best Hotels, Resorts & Airbnbs in the Amalfi Coast

    Though the Amalfi Coast is one of the most romantic places in the world for a honeymoon, it’s important to note that all-inclusive and resort-style packages or long cruises aren’t really done here. Amalfi is best for those wanting a variety of culture, cuisine, and exploring, mixed in with some pool and beach time. You can, of course, eat all your meals at your hotel, but if you’re looking to simply relax on a daybed with meal service on offer all day long and never leave the resort, it’s better to head elsewhere.

  • Casa Angelina

    Worth the Splurge Via Gennaro Capriglione, 147, 84010 Praiano SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Casa Angelina)

    Vibe: For a quiet, less touristy experience, stay at Casa Angelina in Praiano. The white-walled design hotel is perched atop a hill overlooking the sparkling sea.

    Price: A special honeymoon offer includes buffet breakfast, in-room amenities directly from the hotel’s pastry chef, a romantic bath with rose petals and candles, and a sunset cocktail for two, with rates around $1,000 per night. 

  • Belmond Hotel Caruso

    Best "Go Big or Go Home" Splurge Piazza S. Giovanni del Toro, 2, 84010 Ravello SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Belmond Hotel Caruso)

    Vibe: With one of the most impressive infinity pools along the Amalfi Coast, Belmond Hotel Caruso is where Italian glamour meets relaxation. Be sure to take a stroll through the property’s gorgeous gardens.

    Price: Room rates for a double room start around $800 per night. Exclusive suites come with a kitchenette, living and private butler, but you can expect to pay over $5,000 per night. 

  • Il San Pietro di Positano

    Best Amenities Via Laurito, 2, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Il San Pietro di Positano)

    Vibe: The bright, luminous rooms at Il San Pietro are oozing with Italian charm. The hotel is one of the only hotels in Positano with a private beach, as well as tennis courts and its very own boat for tours.

    Price: Room rates start at $1,000 per night. 

  • NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi

    Best for History Buffs Via Annunziatella, 46, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi)

    Vibe: The NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi dates back to 1212 and still features 13th-century cloisters that guests can explore today. A place filled with history, romance, and Italian charm, many of the rooms were once inhabited by monks.

    Price: Rates begin at $800 per night. 

  • Punta Tragara Hotel

    Best View Via Tragara, 57, 80073 Capri NA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Punta Tragara Hotel)

    Vibe: One of the only hotels in Capri that overlooks the Faraglioni rocks, Punta Tragara was once a private villa. Nowadays, it features two different Michelin-starred restaurants and a refreshing pool.

    Price: Room rates start at $600 per night.

  • Maison La Minervetta

    Best Boutique Hotel Via Capo, 25, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Maison La Minervetta)

    Vibe: This boutique design hotel overlooks Sorrento’s marina. With chic furnishings and sleek outdoor space, the rooms at the family-run Maison La Minervetta all feature sea views.

    Price: Rates start at $500 per night. 

  • Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa

    Best Historic Hotel Via Roma, 2, 84010 Conca dei Marini SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Monastero Santa Rosa)

    Vibe: Located in the quiet village of Conca dei Marini, this 20-room boutique hotel with its secret gardens and a stunning infinity pool is perfect for a honeymoon. The space has historic charm, with each of the rooms named after herbs the former nuns used from the property’s gardens.

    Price: Rates start at $1,200 per night. 

  • Airbnb: Penthouse in Naples

    Best Value Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Airbnb)

    Vibe: For those wanting a quick stop in Naples en route to the coast, spend the night in an Airbnb penthouse with your very own terrace overlooking the bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

    Price: Rates hover around $140 per night. 

  • Airbnb: Turchese in Ischia

    Best Rooftop Terrace 80077 Ischia, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Airbnb)

    Vibe: This Airbnb rental has a rooftop terrace with perfect views of Aragonese Castle. The refurbished one-bedroom apartment has clean, airy charm, with blue and white decor and plenty of light.

    Price: Rates start at $380 per night. 

  • Best Restaurants & Bars on the Amalfi Coast

    It’s best to make reservations at restaurants whenever possible, especially for dinner and during the busy summer season. You may also want to call ahead if you’re traveling during the off season to confirm these places are open, as many eateries close for part of the year.

  • Il Tridente

    Best Outdoor Terrace Via S.G.Bosco, 257, 41121 Modena MO, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Il Tridente)

    This restaurant in Positano’s Hotel Poseidon has it all: vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, late-night dining until 1 a.m., regional cuisine with local wine options, and live music three days a week by Maestro Rapicano. There’s also an outdoor terrace and a wood-burning pizza oven. Expect to spend around $100 per person for a three-course meal with wine. 

  • Ristorante Costa Diva

    Best Views Via Roma, 12, 84010 Praiano SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Ristorante Costa Diva)

    The outdoor terrace at Ristorante Costa Diva in Praiano offers sea views as diners sit surrounded by lemon trees. Much of the fresh produce comes directly from its on-site gardens. Make sure to sample the seafood pasta (about $20). 

  • Ristorante Bagni Sant’Anna

    Best Upscale Seafood Via del Mare, 150, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Ristorante Bagni Sant’Anna)

    Admire the sunset over Marina Grande in Sorrento at Ristorante Bagni Sant’Anna after spending the day on the beach club’s sunbeds. The sea bass is exceptionally fresh and delicious ($25). 

  • Marina Grande

    Best Seaside Eatery 80076 Marina Grande, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Marina Grande)

    At Marina Grande, located right along Amalfi’s seaside, you can enjoy a lunchtime beach break or a romantic evening dinner. Be sure to sample the homemade tuna prosciutto ($18) and the three-style octopus plate — grilled, tempura, and carpaccio ($18). The space is also a beach club with chair and daybed rentals. 

  • Starita

    Best Place for Classic Neapolitan Pizza Via Materdei, 27/28, 80136 Napoli NA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Starita)

    Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and you can’t leave this area of Italy without sampling it. Starita is one of the most famous spots in the city for traditional, thin-crust Neapolitan pizza that’s cooked in wood-burning ovens. The varieties are endless. For a real treat, try the angioletti al pistacchio — fried cakes drenched in a sugary pistachio sauce — for dessert. One of the most affordable spots on this list, you can get a pizza, beer, and dessert for under $20 per person. Gluten free pizza is also available. 

  • Ristorante Terrazza Brunella

    Most Romantic Dinner Out Via Tragara, 24, 80073 Capri NA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Villa Brunella)

    This spot deems itself one of the romantic restaurants in Capri, and we can’t help but agree. The views alone at Ristorante Terrazza Brunella make it an epic dining experience, overlooking the sea and the Faraglioni cliffs. Chef Antonio De Simone whips up delights like seasonal eggplant dishes and fresh seafood, with main courses running about $20 to $30 each. 

  • Ristorante Adamo ed Eva

    Most Memorable Meal Via G. Marconi, 112, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Ristorante Adamo ed Eva)

    If you’re heading here for dinner, make sure to go early enough to see the impressive views from the outdoor terrace. Ristorante Adamo ed Eva even has a free shuttle from other parts of Positano — the trek up can be intense, especially when you’re hungry. Try some of the lobster dishes and prepare to spend up to $100 per person for a three-course meal with wine or prosecco. 

  • Pizzeria II Giardino Ischia

    Best Place To Get Your Pizza Fix Via Nuova Cartaromana, 51, 80077 Ischia NA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Pizzeria II Giardino)

    For a relaxed, romantic garden dinner on the island of Ischia, visit Pizzeria II Giardino. The pizza is served in the traditional style, and alternative dishes include gnocchi, Italian sausage, and steak. Pizza prices run as low as $10 for a pie. 

  • Terraza Bosquet

    Best Michelin-Starred Dining Experience Piazza Torquato Tasso, 34, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Terraza Bosquet)

    For Michelin-starred dining in Sorrento, visit Terraza Bosquet. Set in the Excelsior Vittoria with outdoor seating overlooking the sea, the tasting menus run about $160 per person with wine and are spectacular, with items such as a pea risotto and tuna belly. 

  • Da Adolfo

    Most Affordable Local-Style Seafood Via Laurito, 40, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Da Adolfo)

    Part beach club, part restaurant, Da Adolfo is a no-frills escape from some of the fancier spots in Positano. Situated right on the pebbly Laurito beach seafront, you’ll need to hop on a five-minute boat ride (free for customers) to get there. Enjoy spaghetti vongole (pasta with clams), one of their signature plates, for $16, and spend the rest of the afternoon lounging on the beach. 

  • Babel Wine Bar Deli & Art

    Best Wine Bar Via Santissima Trinità, 13, 84010 Ravello SA, Italy
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    (Photo courtesy of Babel Wine Bar Deli & Art)

    A more affordable option in Ravello, Babel is a cafe, deli, wine bar, and restaurant with an artistic atmosphere. Enjoy Italian-style tapas and drinks alongside colorful ceramics and pottery. Try the gazpacho soup ($8) or share the Italian cheese plate ($14) with wine. 

  • Bottom Line

    If you want culture, cuisine, and plenty of Italian charm, honeymooning along the Amalfi Coast is a dream. Just make sure to save up enough cash to do it in style — and prepare those quadriceps for a lot of uphill walking.