Consider visiting the town of Amalfi when planning a trip to the Amalfi coast. This picturesque town boasts a great Duomo, a 10th-century paper museum, the Emerald Grotto, Valle Delle Ferriere, two beaches, and great shopping.

Duomo di Sant' Andrea/Duomo di Amalfi

The 9th/10th Century iconic Duomo di Amalfi is in the main square of the town of Amalfi. This duomo is dedicated to the Apostle St. Andrew and houses some of his relics. To set foot inside, you will climb 62 steps and pay 3 euros, but before entering, pause and enjoy the beautiful view of the town below.

The entrance fee includes the cathedral, a small museum, and the Crypt of St Andrew. The picture above gives us a glimpse of the interior of this magnificent cathedral.

Paper Museum

Due to the high demand to document transactions between merchants, papermaking became the primary industry in Amalfi.

The historic Amalfi paper museum conducts tours that last about an hour. Here you will view a 10th-century paper mill and a medieval paper-making center. You may also have an opportunity to make paper yourself.

Emerald Grotto/Grotto Di Smeraldo

Just a few kilometers outside Amalfi's town is the Emerald Grotto. Here the turquoise cave waters reflect green due to the sun's rays. The best time to visit is noon to 3:00, while the sun can filter light into the cave. The most accessible access to the grotto is by boat, which can be picked up in Amalfi at the pier. It is about 10 euros for the round trip (per person), and the cave entrance fee is about 5 euros per person. The cave is tiny, and the entire trip (from boat pickup to viewing cave) will last approximately 30 minutes. Best to visit during the week, when there are no lines.

Hiking - Valle Delle Ferriere

If you love hiking, this trail has historic watermills, incredible views, and a great waterfall at the conclusion. There are many steps, and it is considered moderately difficult. Bring a water bottle; you can refill it along the way.

Just follow the signs. It will take about an hour and a half and approximately four miles to get to the nature reserve. You can purchase tickets online. This hike will take about 3 hours, so plan to go early in the day during the summer.

At the time of this writing, the waterfall (after the trail) is closed until November 2022. In spite of the closure, many people have still enjoyed this trail.

Amalfi’s Beaches

Spiaggia Grande & Duoglio Beach

Spiaggia Grande Beach

Spiaggia Grande is the main beach, close to the center. This beach has both free and paid sections. The Spiaggia Grande has restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. Like most of the Amalfi coast, the beach is all pebble - so bring your water shoes.

Duoglio Beach

Duoglio beach is a smaller, quiet free beach. It has two restaurants and can be accessed by steps (about 400) or by boat. A boat from Amalfi will take about 5 minutes and cost only 2 or 3 euros. The views are worth the effort if you take the steps.It would be best if you planned to arrive early morning as you will only have sun until the early afternoon due to the rock formations.

Shopping in the Town of Amalfi

The shopping in Amalfi town includes great ceramics, leather boutiques, and lots of lemon and limoncello.Due to the town's historical paper-making industry, you can get handmade paper souvenirs at the store “Tabula” or “La Scuderia del Duca.”

My husband, Mr. Travel, and I visited Amalfi several years ago. We had a great meal in an alleyway. It was amazing and so authentic. I love the beauty of this town and the variety of things to do.

If you still have some time, visit the city of Atrani, a fifteen-minute walk from Amalfi. Find the tunnel that will take you there. Also, the town of Amalfi is strategically located for a day trip to Ravello. If none of this suits you, wander the narrow streets and take amazing photos.

Find your joy,

Consider Visiting the Town of Amalfi