From Naples: Positano, Amalfi & Ravello
The coastal road begins after Sorrento, runs through Positano, the fishing villages of Praiano, Furore and Conca dei Marini and continues until it reaches the busy square of Amalfi, situated on the seafront with a port and a long stretch of pebbled beach. Head to Sorrento, along the famous "Costiera Amalfitana" or "Amalfi Coast." Pass through the Positano, descending the winding one-way road to the heart of the town — the busy central Piazza dei Mulini. At Piazza dei Mulini, continue by foot on the small pedestrian paths leading to the beach. These streets also lead to the cathedral and shops selling ceramics, lemons, shoes and “Positano fashion” clothing. Take a short walk back to the car and ascend the mountain to return to the main coastal road to Amalfi. In front of the port of Amalfi, there is the one and only bus station along the coast. Behind this square lies the main shopping street of Amalfi that terminates at the furthest and highest point of the town. Various bars and cafés line the street, in addition to shops selling limoncello, casual clothing, swimwear, gifts, basic groceries, and, of course, ceramics. Amalfi offers plenty to see beyond shopping: the most spectacular cathedral along the coast, the paper factory and its museum. A slow uphill drive along a very narrow road past several wineries and olive factories leads to Ravello, a rural village untouched by tourism, perched on top of the mountain cliff above Amalfi and Minori. Ravello is famous for its breathtaking views, natural beauty and ancient monuments in the gardens of Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo. At the height of the season, these gardens are rich in sweet scents of blossoming fruits and flowers. There are many classical concerts held in the gardens of Villa Rufolo, located just off the main square of Ravello. Apart from the main cathedral in the square and a history museum in its basement, there are many other churches to visit; there used to be a total of 13 churches in the village. There are even a few small boutiques and souvenir shops tucked along the narrow arches of Via Roma.