Exploring the Amalfi Coast Beyond Positano: 5 Underrated Towns You Must Visit

The Amalfi Coast. When you think of this Italian paradise, chances are you’re imagining the picture-perfect streets of Positano with its pastel-colored houses, fancy boutiques, and tourists snapping selfies at every corner. And let’s be honest, it’s beautiful – but it’s also packed to the gills with crowds.

But, contrary to common knowledge, the coast is not all crowds and influencers. In the midst of tourist-traps, and overflowing cafes and restaurants, rural life still goes on in these virtually unknown villages and towns.

Yes, there are other towns along the coast that’ll steal your heart (and maybe even make you forget Positano altogether). 

Get lost in the streets of these hidden gems and discover them yourself. Here are five underrated Amalfi Coast towns you need to check out, with recommendations on what to do, eat, and see.

1. Atrani: The Best Kept Secret

If Positano is the glitzy star, then Atrani is the charming supporting character that doesn’t need any attention but still manages to steal the show. Tucked away just around the corner from Amalfi, Atrani is tiny but packs a punch with its old-world charm and minimal crowds. The moment you step into the piazza, it feels like you’ve stumbled upon a local secret.

What to Do:

In addition to a mandatory chill time at the beach, the Church of San Salvatore de Birecto is definitely worth a peek – it’s a small gem with a serious history.

What to Eat:

For the best bite in town, head to A’Paranza, a cozy little restaurant serving up some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. We tried the spaghetti alle vongole and loved it the best.

2. Ravello: Where Views Meet Culture

Ravello is a bit like the Amalfi Coast’s cultural brain – and it’s got views that’ll make you weak in the knees. Perched high above the coastline, it’s not the place for a beach day, but it more than makes up for it with breathtaking panoramic views and centuries-old charm of the maze of alleys and tiny streets.

What to Do:

Stroll through Villa Cimbrone and its stunning gardens – the Terrace of Infinity is literally jaw-dropping. If you’re into music, Ravello’s known for its annual music festival: Festival of International Music. For lushly flowered terraces, visit Villa Rufolo.

What to Eat:

Trattoria Da Cumpa’ Cosimo serves traditional, hearty Italian dishes with a side of local hospitality. Try their gnocchi alla sorrentina – it’s comfort food at its finest.

Maiori: 

Tucked between Amalfi and Minori, Maiori is often skipped over, but it’s got everything you need without the crowds. A long sandy beach, local charm, and stunning views – it’s the perfect chill spot on the coast.

What to Do:

Take a stroll along the beach promenade or check out the Santa Maria a Mare Church. If you’re up for a bit of a climb, the Ravello Gardens have killer views. Maiori’s also got some fab little walking trails and quiet coves if you’re looking for peace and quiet.

What to Eat:

Head to Ristorante Al Risorgimento for some fresh seafood and local pasta. The scialatielli alle vongole (pasta with clams) is a must! And don’t forget a shot of limoncello to wrap it all up – it’s basically an Amalfi rite of passage.

3. Minori:

The way to get from Maiori to Minori is easy, all you gotta do is follow the Path of the Lemons. Yes, it’s exactly as beautiful and mystical as you’re probably imagining it.

The Path of the Lemons (Sentiero dei Limoni) is a panoramic hiking trail that winds between Maiori and Minori and offers a perfect combination of breathtaking landscapes, local history, and the intoxicating scent of the traditional terraced lemon groves.

Minori, with its wide beach, historic sites, and laid-back vibe make it perfect for a chill day on the coast.

What to Do:

If you’re a history buff, visit the Roman Villa – it’s a bit off the beaten path, but totally worth it for some ancient ruins and cool mosaics. After that, grab a gelato and head to the beach.

What to Eat:

Ristorante Al Mare is a fab spot for a seaside dinner. Don’t miss their fish dishes – fresh from the sea and perfectly prepared.

4. Furore: The Cliffside Village

Now, if you were really serious about wanting to escape the touristy crowds…get ready for finding Furore, literally. This cliffside village is hidden in a dramatic gorge and is often called “the town that doesn’t exist” because it’s so tucked away and lost. But trust me, it definitely exists, and is worth finding.

What to Do:

Check out the Furore Fjord – a beautiful cove of crystal clear waters which is nestled between two cliffs. And if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s a great spot to cliff-dive. But if you’re more of a “sightsee from the top” kind of person, the Chiesa di San Michele offers sweeping views of the entire area.

What to Eat:

The pasta al limone is a must-try here (a lemony twist on the classic pasta). The little family-run places are always the safest choice while deciding where to eat.

5. Praiano: The Chill Alternative to Positano

If you like Positano but wish it weren’t so packed with people, Praiano is the perfect blend of that same stunning coastal vibe with way fewer crowds. This laid-back town is known for its pretty beaches, stunning views, and fantastic sunsets.

What to Do:

Make your way to the small, hidden beaches (like Marina di Praia) dotting the shoreline to sunbathe with a dramatic backdrop of steep cliffs and no crowds. For something a bit more dramatic, hike up to the Chiesa di San Luca Evangelista for one of the best views of the coast.

What to Eat:

For a romantic dinner and a sunset, head to Il Pirata (it’s literally built into the rocks). Their seafood risotto and local wine are perfect after a day of exploring.