Wine tourism in the Amalfi Coast
Wine Tourism in the Amalfi Coast: destination information, how to move in the Amalfi Coast, Top Wine Experiences, Itineraries and tours, tips and secrets.
Explore the enchanting Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant wine culture.
This Italian gem, nestled along the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, offers wine lovers a paradise of terraced vineyards producing exquisite Costa d'Amalfi DOC wines.
This presentation will explore the geography, history, and fine wines of the Amalfi Coast. Discover the charming coastal towns of Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, each boasting iconic landmarks, unforgettable views, delectable local gastronomy and incredible wines. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of this coastal paradise, where every sip of wine will tell a story of ancient tradition and natural beauty. Plan your unforgettable wine adventure on the Amalfi Coast today!
If you already know the key information on the Amalfi Coast and its fine wines, feel free to skip this guide and
start your search for Amalfi Coast experiences available on winedering.com
The Destination: the Amalfi Coast
Perched along the stunning cliffs of southern Italy, the Amalfi Coast is a breathtaking stretch of coastline, located along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, within the Campania region. This UNESCO World Heritage site features dramatic landscapes with terraced vineyards clinging to the rugged hillsides and sheer cliffs overlooking the azure Mediterranean Sea. The area encompasses charming towns like Amalfi, from which it takes its name, Positano, and Ravello, each rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. In all, there are 13 municipalities on the Amalfi Coast: Amalfi, Atrani, Cetara, Conca dei Marini, Furore, Maiori, Minori, Positano, Praiano, Ravello, Scala, Tramonti, and Vietri sul Mare.
The wine heritage of the Amalfi Coast dates back to ancient times, as vines were first brought here by the ancient Greeks, who established colonies in southern Italy and introduced viticulture to the area. This practice then flourished under the Romans, who recognized the region’s unique microclimate and ideal growing conditions. During the Middle Ages, local monasteries played a key role in preserving and advancing viticulture techniques, making Amalfi's wines highly regarded.
The Costa d'Amalfi DOC wines, known for their distinct flavors, are a testament to the winemaking excellence of this region. Local varieties such as Fiano, Falanghina, and Piedirosso, are grown on terraced vineyards, maximizing the use of the area's steep, rugged terrain. The Amalfi Coast’s scenic natural beauty, historical charm, and exceptional wines make it a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
Before booking, let’s see how to reach and visit the Amalfi Coast.
Did you know?
The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its outstanding cultural landscape, which combines exceptional natural beauty with historical significance. The region, intensively settled by human communities since the early Middle Ages, features picturesque coastal towns, terraced vineyards, and architectural landmarks, reflecting the rich history and cultural heritage of the Mediterranean. The area shows the versatility of the inhabitants in adapting their use of the land to the diverse nature of the terrain, ranging from terraced vineyards and orchards on the lower slopes to wide upland pastures.
How To Reach the Amalfi Coast
Reaching the Amalfi Coast can be slightly challenging due to its rugged terrain and winding roads , but we promise it is well worth the effort. Here’s a detailed guide on the best ways to reach the Amalfi Coast, covering flights, trains, buses, and car rentals.
Route 1: Campania Adventure
To reach the Amalfi Coast, the best starting point is Naples, the capital of Campania. From Naples, you can take a train to Salerno or Sorrento, which are the gateways to the coast. From there, you can travel by bus, car, or ferry.
In your itinerary, we recommend including a few days in Naples to explore the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Then, we suggest heading to Sorrento and taking a scenic drive along the coastal road to Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello. Each town offers unique experiences, from wine tastings in terraced vineyards to exploring historic landmarks and discovering the local gastronomy. This itinerary combines the region’s stunning landscapes, historical sites, and renowned food and wine heritage.
Route 2: from Central Italy to Campania
Another option is to start your Italian adventure in Rome, exploring its iconic landmarks for a few days. From here you can travel to Naples, where you can spend a day discovering its historic charm, or take a day trip to the ancient ruins of Pompeii. From Naples, head to Sorrento by train and use it as a base to explore the Amalfi Coast. We recommend spending at least 3-4 days visiting Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, enjoying wine tastings and dreamy coastal views. Conclude your trip by returning to Naples, and potentially taking a high-speed train to Florence or Venice for a final cultural adventure.
Whether you’re a wine lover planning a grand tour across Italy's best wineries or wish to stop in for a quick wine experience, these routes will help you seamlessly reach the Amalfi Coast. Enjoy the breathtaking views, azure waters, and the rich food and wine culture that await in this enchanting region!
Flights
The closest airport to Amalfi coast is the Naples International Airport (NAP), with a distance of 70 km (45 miles).
The international airport of Rome is definitely the one with the largest amount of connections offered. From Rome to Naples you can easily decide to drive or get a train and then get connected to the Amalfi Coast with the indications here below.
Trains
The train station of Naples Centrale offers connection with high-speed trains to other major cities in Italy.
From Naples Centrale, you can reach Sorrento by taking the Circumvesuviana line. The travel time is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
Costs are around €4-€6 per way ($4.50-$7).
From Naples Centrale, you can also reach Salerno by taking the Trenitalia or Italo high-speed trains. The travel time is approximately 40 minutes and costs are around €10-€20 ($11-$22).
Car / Ncc
From Naples: You can drive along the A3 motorway towards Vietri sul Mare, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. The distance is about 60 km (37 miles) from Naples to Vietri sul Mare, and the drive takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
From Naples, you can also reach Amalfi in approximately 1.5 hours (about 70 km/44 miles)
Major car rental companies are available at the Naples International Airport. Remember that renting a car offers flexibility and the opportunity to explore the countryside at leisure, but you need to ensure you are comfortable with driving in Italy and navigating narrow, winding roads. Consider renting a smaller car for easier navigation and make sure you have GPS navigation or a detailed map to avoid getting lost.
Bus Travel
You can also reach the towns on the Amalfi Coast by bus. From Naples, you first need to reach Sorrento. From Sorrento, buses depart regularly towards Amalfi or Positano. The costs are quite low, at around €10 ($11) per person, however, the trip can take approximately 2-3 hours.
Buses are a budget-friendly option but may require more time and transfers. Ensure you are aware of the schedules and routes and consider possible delays. We also recommend purchasing tickets in advance as buses can be crowded in peak season and checking the latest schedules.
Ferry
Finally, another way to reach the villages of the Amalfi Coast is by ferry. Seasonal ferries and hydrofoils from Naples Beverello port.
The travel time by ferry is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours and costs are around €20-€30 ($22-$33) per way.
Traveling by ferry offers scenic views of the Amalfi Coast, however, make sure to check the ferry schedules in advance as they vary by season.
How to visit the Amalfi Coast
Navigating the Amalfi Coast to visit family-run wineries and live unique wine experiences is best done by combining several modes of transport. Buses run regularly connecting key towns like Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, offering an affordable and stress-free option. Ferries surely provide the most scenic way to travel along the coastal villages and nearby islands. If you value flexibility, renting a car or scooter could be the best option, but be prepared for narrow roads and traffic queues during the high season. Taxis and private transfers offer comfort and convenience above all. Exploring on foot is ideal to discover the hidden corners of the area's picturesque towns. Mixing these options ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience on the Amalfi Coast.
Amalfi Coast Sightseeing, Wine Tasting Experience & Ravello Visit from Positano
This experience offers a full-day tour of the Amalfi Coast, starting from the town of Positano. You will visit notable towns along the coast like Amalfi and Ravello, enjoying scenic stops on the way. The tour includes a visit to a local winery in Tramonti for a panoramic vineyard tour, a 4-course lunch with wine pairing. The experience lasts about 7 hours and includes round-trip transportation from your accommodation.
Tour of Pompeii & Lunch with Wine Tasting at the Foot of Vesuvius
This Pompeii wine experience offers a unique experience that combines a visit to the archaeological site of Pompeii with a wine tasting and lunch at a winery near Mount Vesuvius. The tour includes transportation from your accommodation on the Amalfi Coast, entrance to Pompeii, a guided tour (optional), and a 4-course lunch paired with five types of wine. The wines include sparkling, white, rosé, and red, made from local grape varieties.
Ravello Tour and Lunch with Wine Tasting at a Local Winery
This Ravello Tour and Wine Tasting experience includes a visit to the picturesque town of Ravello, followed by a wine tasting and a 4-course lunch at a local winery in Tramonti.
The tour offers a walk through centuries-old vineyards, tasting of 3 local wines paired with cheeses and cured meats, and a relaxing meal with wine pairing at the family-run restaurant adjacent to the winery. This 5.5-hour experience includes round-trip transportation from different towns on the Amalfi Coast and offers stunning views and authentic local flavors.
Wine & Food in the Amalfi Coast
Discover Costa d'Amalfi DOC
Exploring the wines of the Amalfi Coast is a delightful journey through the region's rich heritage and unique terroir. This area, renowned for its terraced vineyards that cling to steep cliffs, produces a range of unique and flavorful wines.
The Amalfi Coast is particularly famous for its white wines, produced with local varieties such as Falanghina and Biancolella. These whites are crisp, aromatic, and perfect for enjoying with seafood, offering refreshing notes of citrus and green apple.
Red wines from this area, produced with local varieties like Aglianico and Piedirosso, are equally noteworthy. Aglianico is usually robust and full-bodied, with flavors of dark fruits and a hint of spice, making it ideal for pairing with the region's hearty dishes. Piedirosso, on the other hand, is tipically lighter and more approachable, featuring red berry notes and a touch of earthiness.
Don't miss the region's rosé wines, often made from Aglianico grapes, which are delightfully refreshing with fruity notes like strawberry and floral hints.
The wines produced in this area fall under the Costa d’Amalfi DOC designation, encompassing three subzones: Furore, Ravello, and Tramonti, each known for producing distinctive wines.
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Furore: Known for its stunning coastal vineyards clinging to cliffs, the subzone of Furore produces vibrant and aromatic wines. The whites here, made primarily from Falanghina and Biancolella grapes, are fresh and citrusy, while the reds from Aglianico and Piedirosso are robust and full-bodied.
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Ravello: This subzone is renowned for its elegant wines, which benefit from the area's unique microclimate. The white wines produced in Ravello offer floral and fruity notes, perfect for pairing with the local cuisine, rich in delicious seafood dishes. The red wines instead are well-structured with flavors of dark berries and a hint of spice.
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Tramonti: Nestled in the hills, Tramonti's vineyards produce wines with a distinct minerality, thanks to the volcanic soil found in this sub-zone. The white wines here are also crisp and refreshing, while the reds are rich and complex, making them a delight for any wine lover.
The Amalfi Coast is also famous for its lemons, from which is produced the famed Limoncello liquor, the perfect digestif to end any meal!
Traditional Products & Typical Dishes of the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is not only renowned for its wine but also its culinary delights, offering a variety of traditional dishes and food products that reflect its rich heritage and coastal bounty. Typical dishes include pasta specialties loaded with fresh seafood or local produce, rich hinterland dishes, and comforting fish or mussel stews.
The region is also famous for its high-quality products, such as Mozzarella di Bufala, a creamy buffalo mozzarella often enjoyed with ripe tomatoes and basil, handmade pasta from Minori, or Colatura di Alici, an anchovy-based fish sauce. Freshly baked pastries and desserts made with Amalfi lemons also highlight the area's penchant for sweet treats.
During your time in the Amalfi Coast, make sure to try:
Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare
This fresh pasta is mixed with a variety of seafood such as mussels, clams, shrimp, and squid, bringing together the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. This dish is loved for its freshness and is the perfect blend of sea and pasta, quintessential elements of the region’s culinary tradition.
Pizza di Tramonti
This traditional pizza from the village of Tramonti features a thick wholewheat crust topped with fresh tomato sauce, for di latte mozzarella cheese, and local ingredients like herbs and olive oil.
Totani e Patate
This traditional dish from the Amalfi Coast is made with tender squid and hearty potatoes. The squid is sautéed with onions, garlic, and olive oil, while the potatoes are cooked until golden and crispy.
Ndunderi di Minori
Ndunderi are large, thick, gnocchi-like dumplings made with ricotta cheese, usually served with a rich tomato sauce and garnished with fresh basil and grated cheese.
Melanzane al Cioccolato
This unique dessert from the Amalfi Coast features layers of eggplant slices covered in rich chocolate sauce, garnished with nuts and dusted with powdered sugar, a delightful and surprising treat.
Delizia al Limone
This elegant dessert from the Amalfi Coast consist in a small dome-shaped cake filled with lemon cream and covered in a smooth lemon glaze, garnished with lemon zest and mint leaves.
Top 3 Wine Experiences
Here are our top 3 recommendations for wine experiences on the Amalfi Coast, carefully selected by Winedering, the world's most popular marketplace for wine and food experiences. These experiences, booked by thousands of customers, are the ones we highly recommend for creating unforgettable moments.
Wine Tasting & Tour at Tenuta San Francesco on the Amalfi Coast
The Wine Tasting & Tour at Tenuta San Francesco on the Amalfi Coast offers a captivating wine experience that starts with a visit to historic pre-phylloxera vineyards and a 17th-century wine cellar.
You'll enjoy a tasting of three Amalfi Coast-Tramonti D.O.C wines paired with local delicacies such as Panzanella salad, fresh mozzarella, ricotta, mature cheeses, and salami.
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Experience type: Winery visit and wine tasting with local products
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Ideal for: Families, couples, friends, small groups
Wine Tasting in a Boutique Organic Vineyard on the Amalfi Coast at Le Vigne di Raito
The wine experience at Le Vigne di Raito on the Amalfi Coast offers a guided tour through vineyards and lemon groves, ending with a tasting of 2 wines on a panoramic terrace or inside the cellar. Discover the vineyard's rosé and red wines, Vitamenia and Ragis, paired with local cheeses, cold cuts, and other delicacies.
Reviews praise the stunning views, informative tour, and high-quality wines, highlighting the personalized and intimate experience provided by the hosts.
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Rating: 4,64/5
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Experience type: Winery visit and wine tasting with local products
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Ideal for: Couples, friends, groups
Wine Tasting in the Heart of the Amalfi Coast at Cantina Apicella
The Wine Tasting at Cantina Apicella in the heart of the Amalfi Coast includes a guided tour through historic vineyards and a family-run winery. You can choose between tasting four or five different wines paired with local cheeses, cold cuts, and other regional delicacies.
Reviews highlight the informative and engaging tour, the exceptional quality of the wines, and the warm hospitality of the Apicella family, making this a highly recommended experience for any wine lover.
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Rating: 4.8/5
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Experience type: Winery visit and wine tasting with local products
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Ideal for: Couples, friends, families, groups
Not only wine tastings...
Limoncello Tour and Tasting at Il Convento in the Sorrento Peninsula, near the Amalfi Coast
The Tour and Limoncello Tasting at Il Convento in the Sorrento Peninsula, close to the Amalfi coast, offers you a 1.5-hour experience that includes a tour of lemon groves, a detailed explanation of the different steps in limoncello production, and a tasting of Limoncello and various liqueurs, citrus marmalades, and extra virgin olive oil.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, delicious products, and beautiful setting, making it a highly recommended activity.
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Rating: 5/5
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Experience type: Tour of the lemon grove, Limoncello tasting with other specialty products
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Ideal for: Couples, friends, groups
Wine tours on the Amalfi Coast
If you're looking for inspiration for your next trip or want to make adjustments to your existing holiday plans in Campania, take a look at our top 2 itineraries suggested by Winedering for the stunning Amalfi Coast area. The Winedering team has carefully curated these tours to meet specific criteria:
Amalfi Coast Half-day Wine Tour: Visit to 2 Historical Family-run Wineries
Experience an enchanting half-day tour on the Amalfi Coast with a trip combining 2 historical family-run wineries producing Costa d'Amalfi wines. Whether you're departing from one of the towns along the coast or other nearby cities like Sorrento or Salerno, this itinerary is perfect for those who want to discover the Amalfi Coast wine culture and its delicious traditional products.
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8 am
Depart from Sorrento or Salerno via car / personal driver. If you depart from Sorrento you should leave at 7:45 am, while if you're departing from Salerno, 8 am is the perfect time for departure.
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12:30 am
Arrival at Cantina Apicella in Tramonti, Salerno
Enjoy a special introduction to the world of Costa d'Amalfi wines with a tasting and tour at Cantina Apicella in Tramonti. The experience includes a guided tour of the historic vineyards and family-run winery, followed by a tasting of four or five different wines paired with local cheeses, cold cuts, and other regional delicacies.
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3.30 pm
Transfer to Tenuta San Francesco, just 15 minutes away from Cantina Apicella (7 km/4.4 miles) for a splendid tasting of 4 more Costa d'Amalfi wines and typical 3-course lunch before heading back towards your accommodation.
Amalfi Coast Full-day Wine Tour: Wine Lover's Full-day Adventure
Get ready to live a memorable journey through the stunning territory of the Amalfi Coast with an exclusive tour combining 3 winery visits and tastings. By the end of the day, you'll have gained precious knowledge of the legacy of this territory, tasted various exquisite wines, and witnessed breathtaking landscapes.
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8 am
Depart from
Salerno or Sorrento via car / personal driver.
If you depart from Sorrento you should leave at 7:45 am, while if you're departing from Salerno, 8 am is the perfect time for departure.
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11 am
Arrive at Cantine Apicella, a family-run winery that will introduce you to the world of Costa d'Amalfi wines.
Tasting Session: After the a guided tour of the historic vineyards and winery, you'll enjoy a tasting of four wines paired with local cheeses, cold cuts, and other regional delicacies.
Duration: About 2 hours.
11 am: Depart from Cantine Apicella towards Le Vigne di Raito
12:00 pm: Escape the crowds with a picnic overlooking the Amalfi Coast at Le Vigne di Raito. Enjoy a brief introduction to the winery before receiving a picnic basket filled with cheese, baked goods, stuffed sandwiches, homemade dessert, and a bottle of Amalfi Coast DOC wine. Choose your favorite spot in the panoramic picnic areas, ensuring privacy and social distancing, and savor your picnic lunch amidst stunning views.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
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4:30 pm
Depart to Tenuta San Francesco, approximately a 1-hour drive from Le Vigne di Raito.
3:00 pm: Final tasting of three more Costa d'Amalfi-Tramonti DOC wines paired with local delicacies
Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Enjoy Wine Experiences in the Amalfi Coast
These detailed itineraries and insider tips will help ensure that your adventure through the Amalfi Coast will be both seamless and unforgettable.
Remember to take your time, enjoy the stunning views, and soak in the warm hospitality of the local winemakers and residents. Here's to many memorable wine experiences in the heart of Campania, that you can easily book online on Winedering.com, the best online wine tourism marketplace worldwide.
Buon viaggio and cheers to your Amalfi Coast adventure!