If you’re planning a trip to Italy and want to explore some of the most iconic beach locations, then this travel guide to the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Coast is for you.
I’ll be sharing my personal travel experience, including where to visit and enjoy Campania’s most famous healthy food – the lemon. Also, I’ll be sharing some of my travel essentials for going to the beach.
Top 5 Destinations to Visit in Amalfi and Sorrento
Here are my top five favourite destinations:
Positano
Positano is an exclusive and chic location on the Amalfi Coast that offers breathtaking romantic views and scenic paths in a town filled with long staircases.
Amalfi
Amalfi, situated on the stunning Amalfi Coast, is a charming town renowned for its picturesque sea view, vibrant buildings, and winding streets adorned with enticing shops and eateries. Nestled amidst cliffside villages and a captivating rocky coastline, Amalfi boasts both natural beauty and historical significance. Recognized by UNESCO, this enchanting destination has been a hub of human settlement since the early Middle Ages.
Sorrento
Sorrento is a beautiful town overlooking the Vesuvius and Bay of Naples in Southern Italy. You’ll find small antique shops selling ceramics, lacework, and marquetry (woodwork) here. Don’t forget to try the famous local digestif, limoncello, made from the zest of Sorrento or Sfusato lemons.
Ravello
Ravello is a small town situated high above the Amalfi Coast, offering stunning views of the coastline below. It’s known for its beautiful gardens and historic villas.
Vico Equense
Vico Equense is part of the greater Bay of Naples metropolitan area and is a tourist destination for those looking for a quieter and more local lifestyle. The town is bordered by Castellammare di Stabia, Meta, Piano di Sorrento, Pimonte, and Positano.
Amalfi vs. Sorrento Coast: Exploring the Gems of Southern Italy
The Amalfi Coast and the Sorrento Coast are often confused with one another, but they are actually two separate areas. The Amalfi Coast is the stretch of coastline between Nerano and Vietri Sul Mare. It is the coastline to the south that faces the Gulf of Salerno. The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in Italy. The region has an idyllic climate and scenic views that will leave you breathless.
The Sorrento Coast is a stretch of coastline to the north of Naples. It faces the Gulf of Naples and features some stunning views over the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
The Famous Lemons of Amalfi and Sorrento: A Taste of Zesty Delights
When it comes to lemons, the Amalfi and Sorrento regions in southern Italy are renowned for their exceptional cultivation.
The lemons grown in these coastal areas have earned a well-deserved reputation for their unique flavours and qualities.
In Amalfi, the lemons are known as “sfusato amalfitano” or Amalfi lemons. These lemons are larger and have a distinct elongated shape, vibrant yellow colour, and a thick, fragrant peel. What sets Amalfi lemons apart is their intensely sweet and tangy taste, making them ideal for producing the local speciality, limoncello. The rich, bold flavours of Amalfi lemons also add a delightful zest to various culinary creations, such as cakes, desserts, traditional dishes, and refreshing drinks.
Meanwhile, the variety of lemons known as “limone di Sorrento” or Sorrento lemon brings Sorrento its well-deserved fame. These lemons possess a deep yellow colour and an enticing, fragrant peel. They delight the taste buds with a slightly milder flavour than Amalfi lemons, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and sourness.
The culinary world embraces Sorrento lemons, utilizing them extensively in the production of limoncello. Moreover, these lemons lend their exquisite taste to a diverse range of culinary delights, such as seafood dishes, sorbets, marmalades, and the infusion of oils and vinegars.
When visiting the Amalfi or Sorrento Coast, make sure to try the local lemon-based specialities, whether it’s sipping on a refreshing glass of limoncello, savouring a zesty lemon-infused pasta dish, or indulging in a heavenly lemon dessert. Experiencing the vibrant flavours of these famous lemons is an absolute must for any culinary enthusiast.
When to Visit the Amalfi and Sorrento Coast?
When planning your trip to the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Coast, keep in mind that the best time to visit is during the summer months of June to September, when the weather is sunny and warm. Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the towns and scenic paths.
Travel Essentials for Your Summer Holiday in Italy
Now, let’s talk about some travel essentials for your summer holiday in Italy. When you’re going to the beach, don’t forget to carry SPF protection that’s safe for the oceans. Aloe vera gel will help soothe sunburn and insect bites. Bring citronella and lavender essential oils with you. Citronella may help prevent mosquito bites (use in an oil burner), and lavender can help you sleep better and calm bites if you get bitten.
That’s all for now. I hope this travel guide to the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Coast has given you some inspiration for your next trip to Italy. With its breathtaking views, rich history, and delicious food, it’s truly a destination that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. Don’t forget to pack your travel essentials and enjoy your summer holiday to the fullest!
