No trip to Italy is complete without visiting the coast – but which coast? With beautiful, dramatic landscapes, delicious food, and colorful houses, a getaway in the Italian Riviera and a holiday in the Amalfi Coast have a lot in common. Our customers often ask for guidance in deciding which coast to choose for their Italian vacation, but, the truth is, they are both spectacular, and 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 – use our smart itinerary builder! Traveling through Tuscany? The Riviera is for you! Heading south? The Amalfi Coast is a must. But what will you see in each region? We broke it down for you – join as we explore the luxurious cities of the Italian Riviera and the dramatic Amalfi Coast.
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Italian Riviera
Situated between the French Riviera and Tuscany, Italy’s Riviera (Liguria) is nestled between striking mountains and the sparkling blue Mediterranean Sea. This lovely region is known for its great rocky beaches and gorgeous nature, and it is dotted all around with charming fishing villages. Grab a glass of Italian wine, have a look at the map of the Italian Riviera, and join us as we discover the beautiful Italian Riviera.
Popular itinerary in Italian Riviera:
Genoa
Start your trip in Genoa, the beautiful ancient port city and thriving 21st century Italian Riviera city. Genoa seamlessly blends the old and new. Wander the caruggi, the narrow streets of the old city, taking in centuries of Italian history. Make sure to spend some time on the beach swimming in the Mediterranean against the backdrop of the majestic mountains.
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Cinque Terre
A trip to Liguria isn’t complete without visiting the Cinque Terre! Hike the trail that runs between these five famous medieval fishing villages and trek along rocky cliffs through lush fields and gardens, while viewing the sparkling sea which is surrounded by quaint, colorful houses. Cinque Terre is one of the outstanding cities of the Italian Riviera and truly an experience of a lifetime.
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Portofino
After Cinque Terre, make your way to Portofino. As a peninsula, Portofino is somewhat concealed and offers a quieter experience. With yacht-filled harbors, boutique-lined boulevards, and undeniably stunning beaches, Portofino is perfect for a relaxed day during your busy trip.
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Rapallo
Don’t miss the amazing Rapallo. With gorgeous beaches, pedestrian promenades, authentic restaurants, and a charming 16th century castle, Rapallo has been a lovely retreat for centuries, and it is easy to see why. Well-connected by public transportation, it is also a great base for exploring nearby cities and towns.
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Amalfi Coast
With cliffs tumbling into the sea, pastel colored houses hugging the edges, rocky beaches, and ancient landmarks dotted around, the Amalfi Coast is simply magical. The road from Salerno to Sorrento is known to be one of the world’s most beautiful. The Amalfi Coast has been popular for centuries – since Roman times! Come and find out why.
Popular itinerary in Amalfi Coast:
Amalfi
Start your holiday in the Amalfi Coast in the town for which the region is named, Amalfi. Dating back to the 9th century when it was a major military power, Amalfi is the oldest town in the region, as attested to by its historic sites. As you stroll along local streets, you’ll find tourist shops housed in thousand-year-old shipyards! Amalfi is also home to a magnificent cathedral whose door is over 1,000 years old.
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Ravello
Continue along the Amalfi coast to a town which has inspired artists for years – Ravello. Ravello has hosted artists such as Wagner, DH Lawrence, and Virginia Woolf. Situated on a cliff top overlooking the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is famed for its dramatic views and breathtaking scenery, lovely gardens and charming architecture. Make sure to stop for some local espresso!
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Capri
No holiday in the Amalfi Coast is complete without a stop in the popular, trendy Capri. With gorgeous beaches, hidden caves, and ancient landmarks, Capri features everything that makes the Amalfi Coast so special! Enjoy the gelato and wander the streets taking in the colorful houses, pretty gardens, and busy piazzas. Relax on the beach, see some grottoes, go for a hike, and check out some archaeological sites. This amazing town truly has it all!
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Sorrento
Head for the hills and explore the imposing Sorrento. Situated at the top of a cliff overlooking the sea, Sorrento’s views are breathtaking! In Sorrento you’ll find spectacular scenery, lovely strolls along historic boulevards, amazing hikes, and beautiful boat rides. Located near Naples, Pompeii, and Herculaneum, Sorrento is also a great starting point for local excursions.
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Positano
Finally, pay a visit to the postcard-perfect Positano. If you have seen pics of the Amalfi Coast, good chance they are of Positano. With its pastel colored houses which appear to flow into the sea, lush Mediterranean greenery, fashionable boutiques, and vibrant beaches, Positano is a great town for a chic, relaxing Italian beach getaway.
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We hope this answered all of your questions and helped you choose between the chic Italian Riviera cities and the Amalfi Coast. Where will you be spending most of your time on your next European trip? In Italy? Let us know in the comments below!
