Chad and Claire in Campania: 4 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Amalfi

Must-try foods in Amalfi

• Scialatielli all’Amalfitana
  Scialatielli all’AmalfitanaAmalfi’s signature pasta, scialatielli, consists of thick, hand-rolled ribbons made with flour, milk, and fresh basil. In the 'all’Amalfitana' style, it is tossed with a bounty of local seafood including clams, mussels, shrimp, and squid, finished with cherry tomatoes and a hint of garlic.
• Delizia al Limone
  Delizia al LimoneThis iconic dessert is a dome-shaped sponge cake soaked in limoncello syrup and filled with a light lemon-infused pastry cream. It is then glazed with a silky mixture of lemon cream and whipped cream, showcasing the fragrant Sfusato Amalfitano lemons grown on the surrounding cliffs.
• Colatura di Alici di Cetara
  Colatura di Alici di CetaraAn ancient, amber-colored fish sauce derived from the Roman 'garum,' this liquid gold is produced in the nearby village of Cetara. It is made by fermenting salted anchovies in wooden barrels; it's most traditionally served simply over spaghetti with garlic, olive oil, and chili.
• ’Ndunderi di Minori
  ’Ndunderi di MinoriConsidered one of the oldest pasta shapes in the world and recognized by UNESCO, these are ancient Roman-style gnocchi from the town of Minori. Unlike potato gnocchi, they are made from a rich dough of flour, fresh ricotta, and egg yolks, resulting in an incredibly light and pillowy texture.
• Sfogliatella Santa Rosa
  Sfogliatella Santa RosaA local variant of the Neapolitan sfogliatella, this pastry was created in the 18th century at the Monastery of Santa Rosa in Conca dei Marini. It features a crunchy, shell-like crust filled with semolina, ricotta, and candied fruit, topped specifically with a dollop of custard and a black cherry.
• Spaghetti alla Nerano
  Spaghetti alla NeranoA trending favorite across the coast in 2026, this dish originated in nearby Nerano. It features spaghetti tossed with thinly sliced, deep-fried zucchini and local Provolone del Monaco cheese, which melts into a rich, velvety cream that coats every strand of pasta.

Trip guide

• About Amalfi
  About AmalfiAmalfi is located in the Campania region of Italy, situated within the province of Salerno. Historically, the town served as the capital of the Duchy of Amalfi, a maritime republic that reached its peak between 839 and approximately 1131. During this period, Amalfi was a significant Mediterranean trade hub, facilitating exchange between Byzantine, Arab, and Western European territories.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is during the shoulder seasons of May to June or September, when the weather is warm and sunny but avoids the extreme heat and humidity of mid-summer. July and August represent the crowded peak season with high prices and heavy traffic, while many hotels and ferries close during the rainy, quiet off-peak months from November to March. For the ideal balance of swimmable water temperatures and manageable crowds.
• Getting around
  Getting around Amalfi

  • Train and Ferry (Recommended) Take a high-speed train from Rome or Naples to Salerno, then walk 10 minutes to the pier for a scenic ferry ride directly to Amalfi. This route avoids heavy coastal traffic and offers stunning views of the cliffs from.
  • SITA Bus Local SITA buses connect Amalfi to neighboring towns like Positano, Ravello, and Sorrento.
  • Private Transfer or Taxi For a direct door-to-door option from Naples Airport or Sorrento, book a private car. While more expensive, it is the most comfortable way to navigate the narrow.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Prioritize ferries over buses or cars to avoid heavy traffic and enjoy the most scenic views of the coastline.
  • Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes to navigate the steep, narrow staircases and hilly terrain characteristic of the town.
  • Avoid ordering a cappuccino after 11:00 AM, as locals consider milk-heavy drinks to be strictly for breakfast.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Amalfi

  • Salerno Costa d'Amalfi Airport Expansion: The airport enters a major operational phase in 2026.
  • Amalfi Summer Fest 2026: A major seasonal takeover featuring the newly renovated Piazza Municipio as a primary venue for open-air Neapolitan musical performances and '45 Giri.