The Complete Amalfi Coast Honeymoon Guide

From Positano to Capri, read our tips for this type of Italy honeymoon.
Location: Amalfi Coast with Gulf of Salerno, Italy
Photo: Canadastock | Shutterstock
Dina Cheney - The Knot Contributor.
by
Dina Cheney
Dina Cheney - The Knot Contributor.
Dina Cheney
The Knot Contributor
  • Dina writes for The Knot Worldwide, specializing in food, travel and relationships.
  • With more than 20 years of experience in service journalism, she also pens articles and recipes for publications, such as Good Housekeeping, Parents, SELF, Health, Men’s Health, Men’s Journal, Prevention, Fine Cooking, Weight Watchers and Diabetic Living.
  • Dina graduated from Columbia College, Columbia University and The Institute of Cul...
Updated Apr 12, 2024
We have included third party products to help you navigate and enjoy life’s biggest moments. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission.

Local laws may restrict service availability to all. See the Equality Index for more information.


It doesn't get more romantic than an Amalfi Coast honeymoon. With its breathtaking villas, secluded beaches along the Mediterranean, and mouthwatering Italian cuisine, the Amalfi Coast is a top honeymoon destination for newcomers and refined travelers alike.

Famed for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters and vibrant villages, the scenic beauty of this area creates a picture-perfect backdrop for your romantic getaway. And with its world-class restaurants, foodie couples will enjoy eating their way through gorgeous towns like Ravello, Positano and the island of Capri.

Whether you choose to hike the Path of Gods, sip wine on a patio or take a dip in the ocean, we have no doubt that you'll experience la dolce vita ("the good life") during your Mediterranean getaway. That being said, here's our guide to an Amalfi Coast honeymoon to ensure just that.

Amalfi Coast Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

    Positano on the amalfi coast in italy
    Photo: Francesco Riccardo Iacomini | Getty

    Best Time to Honeymoon on the Amalfi Coast

    Shoulder seasons are often seen as the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast, as the climate is still moderate. Try to honeymoon in May to June or September to early October. July and August is high season, but can be very hot—not to mention incredibly crowded (Europeans flock to the region in August). Then, towards the end of October, the Amalfi Coast largely shuts down.

    Best weather: May to June, September and early October.
    Festival highlights: The Feast of Saint Andrew in Amalfi on June 27th, celebrating the patron saint with a spectacular procession and fireworks; the Ravello Festival, an annual summer music and arts festival set against the backdrop of the stunning Villa Rufolo gardens, featuring classical concerts, dance and more.

    Amalfi Coast Honeymoon Planning Tips

    Ready to start planning your Italian honeymoon? From the photogenic towns of Positano and Amalfi to the islands of Capri and Ischia, this stunning stretch of coastline in the Campania region of Southern Italy offers much to see and do. Gary Portuesi, Managing Director of Authentic Italy, suggests accessing the area by flying to Rome or Milan. From there, couples will want to connect to Naples. Options for couples on an Amalfi Coast honeymoon include taking a one-hour train ride via the Frecciarossa from Rome to Naples, or hiring a driver for the roughly two-hour ride.

    On the Amalfi Coast, you'll witness jaw-dropping scenery and breathtaking views at every turn, from the dramatic rocky cliffs to the turquoise-blue Tyrrhenian Sea. "Romance, romance, romance," emphasizes Portuesi. Picture exploring the charming towns via private boat with your partner, followed by a relaxed afternoon sipping Aperol Spritzes or Negronis. Selective couples will also experience refined luxury at the top hotels in the world.

    From June through September, the area gets crowded and somewhat touristy. Positano, Amalfi and Capri, in particular, are exceptionally busy, says Portuesi. Depending on your level of stay, you'll be required to shell out top dollar for distinctive properties. It's recommended couples be prepared for high demand and equivalent prices during peak season. Before buying plane tickets, here a few more things to keep in mind:

    Entry requirements: A US passport that is valid for at least 3 months. Starting in 2025, US citizens will need to have an ETIAS for Italy. It's valid for 3 years and can be obtained online.
    Language:
    Italian.
    Location: The Amalfi Coast stretches along the southern edge of Italy's Sorrentine Peninsula, in the Campania region.
    Currency: The Euro (EUR).
    Flight time to Destination: From New York City, flights to Naples (the nearest major airport) are typically 8-10 hours direct.
    Getting around: The best ways to explore the Amalfi Coast are by buses, ferries, private chauffeur services, renting a scooter and walking. Driving can be challenging due to narrow roads and limited parking, so you may want to avoid renting a car.

    Pro tip: Invite a honeymoon planning expert to join your vendor team. Browse travel agents near you on The Knot Marketplace for Amalfi Coast honeymoon expertise, reviews, testimonials and more.

    Places to Visit on the Amalfi Coast

    Italy, Ravello with old bell tower
    Photo: Maciej Matlak | Shutterstock

    Sorrento

    A lively town referred to as the gateway to the Amalfi Coast is a soothing first stop to the region. Shop for linens and visit a limoncello factory, such as Sapori E Colori Sorrento. (Limoncello is a lemon liqueur, usually served chilled and sipped before or after a meal.)

    Capri

    Drop by the Island of Capri for a serious serving of glitz—many celebrities and billionaires anchor their yachts at Marina Grande. Hobnob with the rich and famous by lunching at La Fontelina (arguably the most iconic property in Capri) or Il Riccio. Both are two exclusive restaurants on the island only accessible by boat. And, if you can, explore the famed Blue Grotto, a sea cave on the coast. Reservations are recommended for everything.

    Positano

    With colorful cliffside villas, sloping streets and views of the sea, this picture-perfect town epitomizes the beauty of the Amalfi Coast. For a truly romantic experience, dine during sunset at La Sponda, the restaurant at the famed hotel, Le Sirenuse.

    Ravello

    A medieval hilltop village, boasting cobblestone streets and winding lanes, has inspired famed writers like Gore Vidal and D.H. Lawrence. For some of the most dramatic views along the Amalfi Coast, visit the Villa Rufolo (the town's historical and cultural center) and Hotel Villa Cimbrone, a 12th Century residence converted into a luxury hotel. Or, if you decide to brave the summer crowds, take in a classical music concert or dance performance at the Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium during the annual music festival.

    Best Amalfi Coast Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts

    For newlyweds going on an Amalfi honeymoon, plenty of accommodations are available. From luxury hotels perched on cliffs with honeymoon suites to romantic boutique hotels and villas nestled in lemon groves, here are some of our favorite places to stay.

    Hotel La Palma, Italy
    Photo: Krisztian Juhasz | Shutterstock

    Monastero Santa Rosa, Conca dei Marini

    A Dominican monastery erected in the 17th Century, Monastero Santa Rosa sits along the "Divine Coast" of Italy's famed Amalfi Coast. Sonnets and books have been written about the surrounding fishing community, while guests will enjoy this 5-star property's perfect perch and everything the region offers.

    5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

    Hotel Mediterraneo, Sorrento

    Located just outside the city center, Hotel Mediterraneo is a quiet hotel that boasts a beautiful rooftop bar with spectacular sea views—a must for sunset cocktails. Plus, it features a new spa and outdoor pool surrounded by a scented garden.

    4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

    Il San Pietro di Positano, Positano

    Take an elevator through a mountain to access this 50-year-old romantic hotel's private floating pier. Carved into the cliffside, the exclusive Il San Pietro di Positano offers views of the Amalfi coastline and the Mediterranean Sea.

    5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

    Palazzo Avino, Ravello

    With a staff-to-guest ratio of two employees per room and limousine and helicopter service, Palazzo Avino offers serious luxury. Housed in a villa built in the 12th Century, it includes a one-star Michelin restaurant (Rossellinis), lobster and martini bar, spa, and a sun deck with an infinity pool.

    4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

    Hotel Caruso A Belmond Hotel, Ravello

    To feel like Sophia Loren or Marcello Mastroianni, book Hotel Caruso for the ultimate luxury experience, says Portuesi. Nestled on a cliff a thousand feet above sea level, the former 11th-century palace features marbled hallways, antiques and paintings by old masters.

    5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

    Pro tip: If you're looking for Amalfi Coast honeymoon accommodations that'll provide you more privacy or lower prices, consider looking into a romantic Airbnb or VRBO.

    Amalfi Coast Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

    From scenic hikes to sun-soaked afternoons on the beach, there are plenty of romantic things to do along the Amalfi Coast. Here are a few ideas to get the ball rolling.

    Two woman enjoy a journey on a boat, with Positano, Italy, in the background
    Photo: Catherine Falls Commercial | Getty

    Explore the Area by Private Boat

    The best way to see these towns is from the sea, says Portuesi. For the most ideal vantage points, book a boat tour and circle the private islands of Li Galli; circumnavigating Capri. Along the way, stop for lunch at one of its beach clubs or restaurants; then, slowly venture through the iconic Faraglioni (iconic rock formations off the coast of Capri).

    Hike and Bring a Picnic Lunch

    For scenic views and outdoor activity, hike The Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei), a cliff top trail overlooking the sea and several towns. Choose from a variety of hiking trails all at different levels. Don't forget to bring a picnic lunch, such as the area's popular caprese salad (with fresh mozzarella, basil and tomato).

    Tour the Ruins of Pompeii

    History buffs should definitely go on a Pompeii tour. Covering around 440,000 square meters, the day trip destination is an archaeological site that's preserved an entire ancient city. The town was likely founded around the 8th-Century BC and it was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in the year 79 AD. A sobering walk through Pompeii reveals the doomed volcanic ash that poured down upon its residents.

    Indulge in the Mud Baths of Ischia

    What would an Amalfi Coast honeymoon be without a spa treatment? Come to this "authentic" and "subdued" island, as Portuesi describes it, to indulge in its famed spas, like Terme Ischia.

    Indulge in Fresh Seafood

    The Amalfi Coast is known for its seafood, especially shrimp, redfish and octopus. Try it at the Michelin-starred Marina Grande or casual Cuoppo D'Amalfi in the town of Amalfi. At the latter, we recommend calamari and fried sardines. Or, stop by the Ristorante Il Pino or Trattoria Da Armandino in Praiano. Round out your meals with limoncello and gelato.

    Take a Cooking Class

    Learn how to prepare the area's trademark dishes, such as ravioli caprese (pasta with tomatoes, cheese, and basil), fritto di paranza (fried seafood), pizza Napoletana, gnocchi, tiramisu and more. You can find culinary courses in Positano, Sorrento and Ravello.

    Pro tip: Add Amalfi Coast honeymoon experiences to your gift registry so that loved ones can give you a memorable couples activity. Don't forget to post adorable honeymoon photos to your wedding website—your guests will want to see what you're up to!

    What to Pack for an Amalfi Coast Honeymoon

    Positano beach, Amalfi coast, Italy
    Photo: Natalia Barsukova | Shutterstock

    An appetite is the most important thing to add to your packing checklist, jokes Portuesi. Seriously, though, he advises packing linen clothing, sandals, chic swimwear, crisp button-down shirts and sunglasses in your honeymoon luggage.

    Of course, don't forget a converter, adapter and portable charger for your cell phone. You'll also want to prepare digital and paper copies of key documents, as well as some euros for when you arrive.

    Brittany Barber contributed to this article.

    Up Next
    • how and when to plan your Honeymoon plus a planning timeline
      Exactly How and When to Plan Your Honeymoon