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Italy’s southern region of Campania is rich in both history and beauty and one of the most breathtaking drives is La Costiera Amalfitana, The Amalfi Drive.  It is the coastal road that links Sorrento to Salerno.  There is so much to see on this magnificent stretch of road that your agenda should include several different itineraries. However, no matter how many stops you plan, my first bit of advice would be to see all of it from the front seat of your rental car, if you dare.  Tour buses serve their purpose for more timid drivers but you will be limited to where you can stop, if at all, and you will find yourself snapping photo memories through a window.  So, buckle up and know that this is the road of dreams.

Your drive today starts in Sorrento where you will wonder why you must climb into the hills if you are supposed to be heading to the coast, but climb you must and the roads out of Sorrento are well-marked, leading you to La Costiera Amalfitana.

1. Positano – Your first stop will be a lovely little lemonade stand just before reaching Positano.  To be honest, I have stopped here many times without trying the lemonade because the view still takes my breath away each and every time.  Just know that morning, noon or night, depending on the season, this stop will be packed with tourists all hanging over the green railing trying to capture photos of the cotton candy cliff-side village of Positano.

Driving further south you will notice the lovely cliffside to your left and the stunning seaviews to your right.  Year-round presepe (nativity scenes), are set within the rugged cliffs and are lit up during the Christmas season, which is a truly magical sight along the darkened road.

1. Praiano – is the next stop on this itinerary.  Here you will come upon the often-photographed Church of San Gennaro.  Its dome rises before you as you come around the bend and sets the scene for a picture-perfect postcard.  Just know that parking is difficult in Praiano but the views are worth it, especially if you can walk down to the plaza in front of the church.  Make sure you also leave time to find the tiny inlet beach in Praiano.  This ancient borgo (small fishing village) will capture your heart and mesmerize you upon first glance.  It’s a great place to grab lunch, as well, while you stare out at the sea dotted with small fishing boats.

As I’ve explained, La Costiera Amalfitana is more than just a moment in time.  It is a road of dreams and I promise to help you plot your course along the way.

Top 3 Hotels in Campania:

Hotel Piazza Bellini – Hotel in Central Naples

Hotel Rivage – Charming hotel in Sorrento

Hotel Regina – Hotel in Naples near Piazza Garibaldi