How to Plan the Perfect Honeymoon in the Amalfi Coast

Built into craggy cliffsides, the colorful coastal towns of Italy’s Amalfi Coast are about as postcard-perfect as it gets. Here, at every hairpin turn, lemon tree branches dip from the weight of their fruit, begging to be pressed into limoncello, the preferred local aperitif. Freshly caught seafood is tossed with handmade pasta, creating meals that will blow your mind for their simplicity and taste. And there’s plenty to keep lovebirds busy. When Expedia polled 1,500 people in relationships, 54% said they wanted a honeymoon filled with romantic activities like sunset boat rides, while 52% hoped for relaxation and pampering. Amalfi has all this and more, so whether you spend the day lounging on the rocky beaches of Positano or aboard a boat taking in stunning views, this gorgeous slice of Italy’s coast makes for a memorable honeymoon escape.

About the Amalfi Coast

Fly into Fiumicino Airport (better known as Leonardo da Vinci Airport) in Rome. From Roma Termini, the city’s main train station, take a leisurely 4-hour train ride to Vietri sul Mare-Amalfi. If you’re already hopping around Italy and happen to be in Naples, the train ride to Amalfi is just over an hour. Alternatively, take a train to Naples and hire a local driver who will no doubt know how to navigate the tricky cliffside coastal roads — it’s a heart-pounding route that’ll have you hugging your special someone, though the views will take your breath away. 

RELATED: How to Plan the Perfect Honeymoon in Seville, Spain

What to see and do

Known as the Vertical City, Positano is famous for its brightly colored homes and buildings etched into the steep mountainside. Be prepared to take a lot of stairs, whether you’re walking down to the beach or strolling up to the shops. From the beach, see the island of Capri in the distance; book a day trip and sail over! On the 8-hour private boat trip, swim in stunning grottos and explore intricate caves; you’ll have time to explore Capri and enjoy an amazing lunch on the island before motoring back to Positano where you’ll gasp at the views of the town from the water. Back on land, it’s worth every penny to book a driver to take you to Ravello. You’ll explore the stunning gardens, learn the history of the Amalfi Coast, and soak up stunning views of nature and the Mediterranean architecture. 

Where to eat

You can’t come to the Amalfi Coast without a meal at Ristorante Donna Rosa. This mother-daughter owned place stuns with amazing views, and the ravioli is like little clouds that melt in your mouth. For a fancy dinner, we suggest La Sponda at Le Sirenuse Hotel, a stunning property worth popping into just to people watch the beautifully dressed guests. The restaurant offers beautiful views of the beach below and at night, all the houses and hotels are lit up, and it’s gorgeous. If you don’t want a fancy dinner, stop into Aldo’s, the champagne bar at Le Sirenuse, for a drink before or after dinner somewhere else. Chez Black is a popular beachside spot offering delicious seafood and we love Maestro’s at Villa TreVille. The food is seafood forward and the views are lovely as this property is maybe a 5-10 minute drive from Positano proper, so you can see the whole town in its entirety. Grab a quick but delicious lunch at Capricci and be sure to dine at La Tagliata for dinner, too! 

Where to stay

Colorful buildings etched into a mountainous backdrop and stunning ocean views make Positano a popular choice for accommodations. Perched on the edge of a cliff, Hotel Villa Franca is a lovely option with a stunning pool overlooking the sea.

Five minutes down the coast in the town of Praiano, you’ll find Hotel Margherita, offering a pool and spacious rooms with amazing views. Be sure to book an outdoor massage so you can relax while breathing in the sea air and listening to the waves below. 

The best part? Both of these hotels are Expedia VIP Access properties, meaning they consistently meet tough standards for quality and service—plus Expedia Rewards members can take advantage of free perks.

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