AMALFI
2 | Outlook Travel Issue 26
AMALFI T R AV E L G U I D E
AMALFI Discover Amalfi at its most authentic in the off-season, when you can explore the town centre and surrounding hamlets at a slower and more relaxed pace WRITER: JACK SALTER | PROJECT MANAGER: MANTE KALINAUSKAITE
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isiting Amalfi off-season means discovering a different dimension, one that is more authentic and easy-going. Indeed, the town regains its natural rhythm in the autumn, winter, and early spring months; the squares are quieter, the alleys are unhurried, and the sounds of the sea are constant wherever you go.
It’s the perfect time to enjoy Amalfi at a relaxed pace – spend longer admiring the Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea, exploring scenic trails, and visiting the historic hamlets of Pogerola, Lone, Vettica Minore, Pastena, and Tovere. Experiences become more intimate in off-season Amalfi, whether it’s lunch overlooking the sea, a walk amongst the lemon groves, or coffee in the piazza whilst observing daily life. The light of the cooler months also intensifies the colours of the coast, whilst the mild climate makes it possible to explore the area leisurely throughout the day. An off-season vacation to Amalfi is not just a trip, but a way to really get in touch with the soul of the place and the local community.
Industry Insights
VISIT AMALFI
The Mayor of Amalfi, Daniele Milano, highlights the reasons to visit Amalfi during the off-season and the need to balance visitor demand with the protection of local communities. Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, can you talk us through the main goals of Visit Amalfi? Daniele Milano, Mayor of Amalfi (DM): The Visit Amalfi destination management organisation (DMO) was established in May 2023 to give effective management to the destination. We are responsible for providing tourist information and hospitality services, training tourism professionals, and promoting the destination through targeted marketing activities. Over the years, we have developed a public-private partnership involving more than 100 operators in the hotel and short-term accommodation, experiential tourism, and services sectors. 4 | Outlook Travel Issue 26
Daniele Milano, MAYOR OF AMALFI
As we have increasingly recognised the need to address certain challenges for which there are currently no adequate national regulatory frameworks, we developed the Carta di Amalfi. This initiative brings together some of Italy’s smaller yet internationally renowned tourist destinations: Amalfi, Arzachena, Ayas, Baveno, Capri, Castellabate, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Courmayeur, Ischia, Pinzolo/ Madonna di Campiglio, Polignano a Mare, Pollica, Positano, Praiano, Ravello, Riomaggiore, Riva del Garda, Roccaraso, San Gimignano, Sorrento, Taormina, and Volterra. Through the ‘Carta di Amalfi’, we have been able to engage with the national government on issues related to the management of tourist flows
and promote a shared and more sustainable tourism approach. OT: How much of a challenge is overcrowding in Amalfi, and how are you addressing it? DM: In recent years, we have been promoting Amalfi as a year-round destination. We particularly promote the destination in November and December, for example, because the weather is still pleasant, you can go hiking, and there is less traffic. There is also a full calendar of events and activities throughout the Christmas and New Year period. Whilst visitors can choose different times of the year to come, the time of day is also important. In Amalfi, we do not suffer so much
“Tourism matters, but so do the health and well-being of the local community” – D A N I E L E M I L A N O , M AY O R O F A M A L F I
from “overtourism” as from “overcrowding”. Many people visit between 10am and 4pm, especially at weekends and during public holidays. If we can spread tourist flows more evenly throughout the day and across the year, we can help mitigate the phenomenon. We have also been working to better connect the town centre with Amalfi’s hamlets – Pastena, Lone, Vettica Minore, Pogerola, and Tovere. We always encourage visitors to explore the hamlets because they
offer a more authentic and lesserknown side of the destination. There are small buses that make it easy to get around. We have also developed a range of itineraries and are maintaining hiking trails connecting the town centre with the hamlets. So, our strategies operate on different levels. One focuses on the time of year, another on the time of day, and the third on spreading tourist flows more evenly across the entire territory of Amalfi. OT: How do you balance visitor demand with protecting local communities? DM: Tourism matters, but so do the health and well-being of the local community. Outlook Travel Issue 26 | 5
Industry Insights
With the Carta di Amalfi project, we have strengthened our dialogue with the national government to introduce policies aimed at better managing tourist flows. In just one year, we achieved an important result by changing the regulations limiting the number of police officers a municipality could employ during the summer. This has allowed Amalfi to increase its police presence and improve safety, traffic management, and visitor services. We have also introduced limits on tourist-oriented businesses, such as takeaway shops, which can contribute to rising prices, waste, and the loss of essential local services. The goal is to protect shops that serve the local community. Another priority is housing; Amalfi has lost almost 1,000 residents over the past 20 years, partly due to the growth of short-term rentals. We therefore need to find a balance between tourism and the rights of local residents and workers to access affordable housing. Finally, we would like to cooperate with cruise companies to identify days when cruise arrivals should be limited or avoided, based on the number of visitors already expected in Amalfi. 6 | Outlook Travel Issue 26
OT: Why should visitors consider spending their time in Amalfi during the off-season, rather than peak times? DM: First of all, the weather is still pleasant, so you can enjoy hiking and swimming, with far less traffic. We generally discourage tourists from coming by car, especially during the high season, because the roads are very narrow and traffic can make driving challenging. However, in the off-season, having your own car can be a good option for exploring Amalfi at your own pace. Public buses are also easy to use in winter. In summer, we recommend avoiding both buses and rental cars and instead using ferries or shared
private shuttles, which can be booked online in advance. November and December are also a great time to experience the local community. As residents prepare for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, visitors can experience a more authentic side of the destination. Shops, restaurants, and bars remain open, while in January and February they close on a rotating basis, following a local regulation. This system was introduced to avoid the situation of the past, when almost everything used to close during the winter months. OT: For outdoor enthusiasts, what hiking trails would you recommend? DM: Amalfi offers several beautiful hiking trails. The Via Maestra dei Villaggi is an ancient route connecting Amalfi to Agerola, whilst the Pogerola Circuit takes you through the hills above the town. For a different experience, the Rione Vagliendola and Secret Amalfi itineraries allow visitors to explore the town’s ancient alleys and hidden corners. Just outside Amalfi, you can also hike to the Valle delle Ferriere from the hamlet of Pogerola or reach the
AMALFI T R AV E L G U I D E
“We always encourage visitors to explore the hamlets because they offer a more authentic and lesser-known side of the destination” – D A N I E L E M I L A N O , M AY O R O F A M A L F I
Torre dello Ziro. Many trails connect Amalfi with neighbouring villages and municipalities, offering a wider experience of the area. OT: How are you trying to improve the hikes around Amalfi? GR: Over the past year, we have focused on maintaining and improving the trails within the municipality of Amalfi, including updating the Club Alpino Italiano (CAI) trail signage. We hope to extend this work to the paths that cross neighbouring municipalities as well. Furthermore, thanks to an important regional fund, we got funding to stabilise a rocky ridge, which will allow us to reopen a section of the Via Maestra dei Villaggi that is currently closed to the public.
OT: As we approach the festive period, what opportunities are there for experience-led travellers? DM: New Year’s Eve is a very special time in Amalfi because it’s one of the longest celebrations in Italy. We start celebrating at 3pm and keep going until 4am the following day! The programme combines tradition and contemporary entertainment, with folk music and traditional instruments alongside DJ sets for younger audiences and live bands for international visitors. Amalfi is also a great destination during the festive season. It’s one of the best times of year for hiking, whilst attractions such as the Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea, Museo della Carta, and Arsenale della Repubblica remain open. Ferries operate depending on weather conditions, so visitors can also explore the nearby Amalfi Coast villages by sea.
destination is having a healthy and successful season. At the same time, we are working to improve services and introduce new policies to better manage tourismrelated challenges, particularly traffic. In 2019, the Municipality of Amalfi made the difficult decision to remove the tourist bus parking area from the seafront main square. This meant losing around €1.5 million in annual revenue, a significant amount for a town like Amalfi, but it has had a major impact on traffic. We went from around 200 days of severe congestion a year to just 20, mainly during public holidays or when ferries are suspended due to bad weather. Another important measure will be the introduction of a so-called ‘ZTL territoriale’, using technology to better manage and distribute traffic flows across the entire Amalfi Coast.
OT: Finally, are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Amalfi? DM: Tourist stays have been positive this year, increasing compared to 2025, with the US remaining our main international market. Overall, the
info@visitamalfi.com www.visitamalfi.com Outlook Travel Issue 26 | 7
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AMALFI T R AV E L G U I D E
In Focus
Hamlets For the quieter, more authentic side of Amalfi, visit the five hamlets – Pogerola, Lone, Vettica Minore, Pastena, and Tovere – made up of scenic paths, small communities, and traditions that endure over time. P O GER OLA IS ONE of the most popular hamlets for those seeking spectacular views and tranquillity, boasting lush nature and breathtaking panoramas of both the sea and mountains. It stands on Monte Falconcello, a prominent hill overlooking the historic centre – perfect for those who want to see Amalfi from a different perspective.
Viewpoint in Pogerola
Lone, meanwhile, is a small, intimate hamlet situated on the slopes of Monte Scorca, surrounded by lush gardens, terraces, and religious buildings. Time seems to slow down here, with narrow alleys, stone arches, vegetable gardens, and houses that tell the story of local life. Lone is the ideal destination for a walk; for fun or relaxation by the sea, Il Duoglio is a stunning pebble cove with crystal-clear waters. Between Amalfi and the town of Conca dei Marini, Vettica Minore offers dramatic views of limestone cliffs, with the secluded Spiaggia di Santa Croce tucked beneath. Out of the five hamlets, Pastena is located the closest to Amalfi – just 1 km away from its ancient walls – where you can admire beautiful views of the area. For those who want to combine a visit to Amalfi with in-land hiking and scenic routes, Tovere is the ideal stop. The five hamlets of Amalfi are not just places to see, but small worlds to experience.
Vettica Minore
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RECOMMENDS Eat: FOR AU T H E N T IC A M A L F I T I A N S T Y L E … Fore Porta Farm is a family-run organic farmhouse nestled in the green Valle delle Ferriere, in a restored 13th-century rural house. It specialises in Sfusato Amalfitano IGP lemons and zero-kilometre (Km 0) products such as granita, limoncello, jams, liqueurs, cakes, and organic honey. Guests can enjoy traditional homemade dishes prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients from the farm’s garden. The property offers a cosy room, homemade breakfasts, half-board stays, cooking classes, and walks through the gardens. The wonderful family of Silvia and Gerardo provide an authentic, warm experience immersed in nature and the flavours of the Amalfi Coast.
PHOTOGRAPHY @ VISIT AMALFI / WWW.AGRITURISMOAMALFI.IT
FOR ON E OF A M A L F I ’ S IC ON IC M IC H E L I N R E S TAU R A N T S … Since 1959, La Caravella has been an iconic culinary destination on the Amalfi Coast and the first Michelinstarred restaurant in Southern Italy. Located in the historic Piccolomini ducal palace, it preserves its original architecture and beautifully restored frescoed ceilings. Chef Antonio’s cuisine celebrates simplicity, family heritage, local traditions, and the flavours of the Amalfi Coast. 10 | Outlook Travel Issue 26
The restaurant also features a private collection of artworks and an art gallery showcasing exceptional local ceramics. Nearby, the Cantina delle Rarità houses thousands of bottles in a unique 17th-century stone-built structure.
Do: FOR T H E V I BR A N T H E A R T OF A M A L F I … Head to Piazza Duomo, which is dominated by the Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea and its grand 62-step staircase. This bustling square also features outdoor cafés, where you can people-watch over a coffee and delizia al Limone, a traditional lemon pastry.
AMALFI T R AV E L G U I D E
FOR S OA K I NG I N T H E S U N… Relax on Marina Grande, the main beach of Amalfi. Located close to the town centre, the beach is ideal for those who want to sunbathe nearby cultural attractions, restaurants and bars. Il Duoglio, Spiaggia di Santa Croce, and Spiaggia della Vite are also wonderful beaches that can be reached by sea.
Hotel Miramalfi - A Timeless Amalfi Coast Retreat
Perched above the crystal-clear waters of the Amalfi Coast, Hotel Miramalfi is a 5, family-owned boutique hotel that perfectly captures the timeless spirit of this iconic coastline. Hotel Miramalfi offers an intimate and personalised experience infused with genuine Italian hospitality.
Marina Grande
Sleep: FOR S T E PPI NG BAC K I N T I M E … The luxury Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel breathes new life into a 13th-century Capuchin convent. This 5-star, cliffside hotel is just a few minutes from Piazza Duomo and overlooks the harbour – an unrivalled location and spectacular setting. The hotel remains open throughout the festive season, welcoming guests at Christmas and New Year with a unique programme of experiences, including charming Christmas markets, hands-on cooking classes, and special festive dining experiences. FOR LU X U RY OV E R LO OK I NG T H E S E A I N T H E H E A R T OF T H E C I T Y C E N T R E … The Hotel Residence is an elegant 18th-century aristocratic palace located on Amalfi’s seafront. Opened in the 1950s and fully renovated in 2010, it features 27 sophisticated rooms overlooking the sea or Piazza Duomo. The rooms combine historic charm with modern comforts, including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, minibars, and luxurious bathrooms. Its elegant spaces also host weddings, concerts, exhibitions, and other events. The hotel is home to Sensi Restaurant, awarded a Michelin Star in 2023 under Chef Alessandro Tormolino.
The hotel features 36 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each with a private balcony or terrace boasting breathtaking sea views, ensuring guests wake up to the beauty of the Mediterranean every day. tel +39 089 87 15 88 | info@miramalfi.it | www.miramalfi.com
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AMALFI T R AV E L G U I D E
Landmark Attractions Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea The majestic Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea is undoubtedly the main landmark of Amalfi, with its monumental staircase and unique decorated façade. Consisting of two juxtaposed basilicas, this medieval Roman Catholic cathedral is dedicated to Andrew the Apostle, whose relics are kept here, and overlooks Piazza Duomo, Amalfi’s most characteristic square.
Museo della Carta Amalfi is famous for its handmade paper production. The Museo della Carta is housed in an old paper mill that dates back to the 13th century, taking you back in time on a journey through the ages where you can experience ancient papermaking techniques. Admire restored machinery that was used in the production of paper, such as wooden hammers and presses.
Arsenale della Repubblica The splendours of the ancient maritime republic of Amalfi are revived in the Arsenale della Repubblica. Originally, the arsenal was about twice the size it is today; the shipyard extended all the way to the harbour so that boats could easily reach the sea. It currently houses the Museo della Bussola e del Ducato Marinaro, which celebrates Amalfi’s powerful past. Inside the Arsenale della Repubblica, there is the Visit Amalfi info-point.
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AMALFI T R AV E L G U I D E
Getting There and Around A MA H O NG LFIKONG D OESISNOT privyhave to sound its own economic airport, so most strengths, travellers including fly into its renowned Naples International banking system, Airportvery (NAP), little public is which debt, about a strong 45 miles legal away. system and rigorous From NAP, anti-corruption you can reach measures Amalfi by which taxi, private over time transfer, haveferry, secured or seasonal its close ties buses thatwith run mainland from spring China. through to autumn. Due to its world-class harbour, Hong Another Kong’s way export of reaching industry Amalfi is is booming, to take theparticularly train from Napoli the re-export Centrale centre with Station, a short the drive predominant from NAP, amount to the of the city of city’s Salerno, exports thenconsisting catch a ferry of or re-exported goods - products made bus. outside Salerno of the Costa territory, d’Amalfi mainly Airport in (QSR) mainland is a closerChina local alternative - which areto then NAP, distributed however it handles throughout fewer Hong flight Kong. routes. Theboat, By mainconnections development to of and the from city’s economy occurred between 2650 and 2690, where Hong Kong grew
Amalfi are rapidly andserved became bythe ferry first companies for the ‘Four as such Asian Travelmar Tigers’ -and theAlicost, others being Singapore, covering time South slots Korea throughout and Taiwan the when all of which underwent rapid day. industrialisation Amalfi offers aand year-round continued local to maintain shuttle service exceptionally that runshigh through growth the rates - through historic centre and the connects development to the of a strong manufacturing and financial hamlets. base. However, we advise against driving your In the ownpresent vehicleday or renting the cityaiscar famous in for its leading Amalfi due to the financial narrow centre, roadswith and four main heavy traffic. industries that include financial services, tourism, trading andmore For logistics, information, and professional head to the and producer Visit Amalfi services. website! Each of these industries Getting There have played a contributing role in the Getting Around city’sAmalfi economic growth, while providing a pathway that will encourage other sectoral growth.
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info@visitamalfi.info www.visitamalfi.info
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