One of the most challenging decisions you can make when planning your Italian escape is deciding where to go. Since you’re here, we’re assuming you’ve already narrowed down your choices to the coast, and that’s half the work done. Now, the real question is, should you choose the Italian Riviera or Amalfi Coast?
Both coastal regions are world-famous for obvious reasons. They offer unbeatable scenery, incredible food, and unforgettable experiences that few places in Europe can give. Whether it’s the colorful houses on the Italian Riviera or the rugged cliffs of Amalfi, you’re going to have a memorable time either way.
This guide is designed to help you determine which coastal region is best suited for your adventure, so you can choose with confidence. It includes an overview of each area and some things you need to keep in mind when making your decision.
READ NEXT: When you’re done here, make sure to check out some of our itinerary ideas, where you can incorporate one of these brilliant coastal destinations.
Overview of the Two Regions
Before we dive into the details of choosing between these two iconic coastlines, let’s go over what makes each one special. We’ll give you a quick overview of what you can expect from each region, so you can start to picture which one might be your top choice.
Amalfi Coast
- Where Is It: Southern Italy, Campania Region
- Most Famous Towns: Positano, Amalfi, Ravello
- Known For: Dramatic cliffs, lemon groves, glamour, and winding roads
The Amalfi Coast is a breathtaking stretch of coastline in southern Italy, known for its dramatic cliffs, those brightly-colored vines and magenta flowers, and winding cobbled roads. This part of the Campania region has long been a go-to spot for travelers seeking a luxurious (and glamorous) escape. Plus, it’s one of the most romantic places in Italy, so couples would adore it.
The most famous towns on the Amalfi Coast include ones like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. If you’re visiting Positano, you can spend time on iconic beaches like Spiaggia Grande, see the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, or shop at quaint boutiques. The region’s namesake, Amalfi, boasts historic sites, including the Duomo di Amalfi and the ruins of Villa Romana e Antiquarium, as well as picturesque waterfront promenades. Then, Ravello, with terraced Italian gardens and villas like Villa Cimbrone or Villa Rufolo.
With all that said, don’t forget about the lesser-known Amalfi Coast towns, like Atrani, Praiano, Conca dei Marini, or Vietri sul Mare. They’re just as spectacular and have that added benefit of being slightly less touristy.
But overall, the Amalfi Coast offers something for everyone, whether you want to spend days relaxing on the beach, taking boat trips along the coast, or taking in the unbeatable views. Oh, and don’t forget about the cuisine (but more on that later).
TOP TIP: Nothing beats this exclusive private boating experience if you want to make the most of your vacation on the Amalfi Coast. Get 5% off with code: Untolditaly.
Italian Riviera
- Where Is It: Northwestern Italy, Liguria Region
- Most Famous Towns: Portofino, Cinque Terre, Santa Margherita Ligure
- Known For: Pastel fishing villages, pesto, local charm, and laid-back vibes
Next up is the Italian Riviera. This is a stunning stretch of coastline located in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy, which is definitely Amalfi’s closest rival. The Italian Riviera is renowned for its vibrant fishing villages, including the five in the Cinque Terre. It boasts incomparable natural beauty, along with those beautiful pastel-colored houses that everyone loves. So, it’s perfect for travelers looking for a more laid-back, authentic experience.
Some of the most iconic spots along the Italian Riviera include the Cinque Terre, Portofino, and Santa Margherita Ligure.
Visiting Cinque Terre is likely the most popular choice, given its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can visit its five colorful cliffside villages. Manarola and Vernazza are top-notch.
In Portofino, spend your day people-watching at the harbor, explore the Church of San Giorgio, or climb up to Castello Brown for incredible views. Then you have Santa Margherita Ligure, which offers a mix of beach clubs and attractions, including Villa Durazzo and the Castello di Santa Margherita Ligure.
From serene beaches like San Fruttuoso in Camogli to the maritime history in Genoa, there’s plenty to do here. But in general, the vibe is a little more casual and understated (though no less impressive) compared to Amalfi’s dramatic and glamorous flair.
DISCOVER: More of the most awe–inspiring towns of the Italian Riviera.
Italian Riviera or Amalfi Coast – Factors to Consider When Deciding
Now that you know a little bit more about each place, let’s go into a bit more detail. It’s essential to keep in mind what you’re looking for out of your trip, whether that be the kind of vibe you’re going for or your budget. Here are six of the most important factors to consider.
1. Scenery and Atmosphere
One of the primary factors in deciding between the Amalfi Coast and the Italian Riviera is the overall ambiance of the place. Consider the activities you want to engage in, the destinations you wish to visit, or even the photos you want to capture, as these can all significantly impact your overall experience.
Amalfi Coast: The Amalfi Coast is more bold, breathtaking, and oozes drama. Those steep and jagged cliffs are lined up with eye-catching buildings that lead up winding roads, creating a unique vertical landscape. By all accounts, it’s a picture-perfect destination. It also brings glamour and a luxurious experience. With everything from upscale accommodations and hotels to stylish beach clubs and boutiques, it’s the place to be for those who want to feel like they’re on an extravagant retreat.
The Italian Riviera: It’s known for its rustic beauty, natural charm, sweeping views of the Ligurian Sea, and Mediterranean-style gardens. Of course, it has a similar look in terms of the colorful buildings, but the pastel houses are more prominent here. Plus, the villages are less populated, making them feel quieter and more relaxed. And with the locals sailing on their fishing boats and going about their business, you sort of feel at one with the community.
Who might prefer which: If you’re a nature lover, someone who prefers quiet exploration, or you just want a more authentic experience, the Italian Riviera is your go-to. If you like a more high-end experience, with dramatic views for photography, then you’d likely prefer the Amalfi Coast. That said, both the Amalfi Coast and the Italian Riviera are good for romantics and amazing photography.
2. Accessibility and Getting Around
Next, let’s talk logistics. Navigating Italy’s transportation system can be daunting, so you need to consider how easily you can reach your destination and how smoothly you can travel around once you’re there.
Amalfi Coast: You typically reach the Amalfi Coast from Naples via flight, followed by a combination of trains, buses, ferries, or private transfers. The roads here are famously narrow and have those tight hairpin bends carved into the cliffs. It’s beautiful, but navigating it can be challenging, especially in heavy traffic. So, renting a car probably isn’t a great idea.
In terms of getting around, ferries operate between major areas, including Positano, Amalfi, and Capri, but these schedules can be weather-dependent. Public buses are a budget-friendly option, but they can often be crowded. For some, navigating these transport systems is part of the adventure. For others, it can feel like a logistical nightmare.
Italian Riviera: By contrast, the Italian Riviera is generally easier to access and explore. You can reach it easily by train, usually from major cities like Florence (with a connection through La Spezia), Milan, or Genoa. Once you're there, many of the towns are pedestrian-friendly and well-connected by a frequent, efficient regional train line, especially Cinque Terre. That makes it easy to walk around if you’re not keen on using public transport.
It’s also an excellent option for travelers from neighboring France, since it’s connected to the French Riviera.
Which is better: If you’re not comfortable driving or prefer a more seamless travel experience, the Italian Riviera is the better choice. But if you’re up for a bit of an adventure, or you’re a return traveler, then the Amalfi Coast is your go-to.
TOP TIP: Keep in mind that travel time and transport logistics can significantly impact your stay, including the amount of ground you can cover on your trip. Especially if you’re only in Italy for a short while, you don’t want to spend too much time fussing over logistics. That’s why it’s best to stay closest to the towns you want to see most and factor the travel time into your itinerary planning.
3. Crowd Levels and Travel Seasons
Something most travelers consider when planning their trip is how crowded it will be. Travel seasons can change everything, from the price of accommodation to the availability of access to Italy's main attractions. But most of all, travel seasons affect tourist levels. Now, both the Amalfi Coast and the Italian Riviera are popular spots, but the atmosphere can feel very different depending on when you’re there.
Amalfi Coast: This is one of Italy’s busiest destinations during summer (June-August), but especially July-August. Beaches and towns in general are just more crowded, and prices tend to inflate. While the energy that the crowds bring can be exciting, it’s not always the most relaxing time to visit. Spring (March-May) and early fall (September-November) are generally more pleasant, with fewer tourists and comfortable weather. If you really want some quiet time, consider visiting in winter (December-February), but keep in mind that many hotels, restaurants, and attractions are closed for the season.
Italian Riviera: The Riviera isn’t much different when it comes to peak season, especially with the most popular areas like Cinque Terre and Portofino bringing in just as many visitors in the summer months. The difference is that it has a few more local, less-frequented escapes where you can enjoy a quieter visit. Towns like Camogli, Sestri Levante, or Lerici still stay relatively calm, even in peak season, so you can get that same seaside experience without the crowds.
When you should go: Wherever you decide to go, the time of year will make a big difference. It all depends on the kind of energy you want. Do you want more energetic vibes or more tranquility? Keep that in mind. And if all else fails, a great compromise is to visit either one during the shoulder seasons (spring, fall, or winter).
4. Food and Wine
Italy has always been a dream for food lovers, and both of these regions bring their distinct flavors to the table. From fresh seafood to fragrant herbs and lemon-infused desserts, your trip wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the local cuisine, and maybe even learning a recipe or two. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the best food and wine to try.
Amalfi Coast: This cuisine on this coastline is all about bold and bright flavors that mirror that gorgeous sun-soaked landscape and the seaside setting. It’s no surprise that fresh seafood is a staple here. Think grilled octopus, fried anchovies, or seafood pasta dishes, like scialatielli ai frutti di mare or spaghetti alle vongole. Lemons are another signature ingredient here. Seriously, you can find lemon in everything, from risotto finished with lemon juice and limoncello to sugary sponge cakes filled with creamy lemon cream, called delizia al limone.
For wine lovers, you can look out for Campanian wines like Falanghina or Greco di Tufo. If you prefer red, try Costa d'Amalfi Rosso.
EXPLORE: More mouthwatering Amalfi Coast food and local dishes.
Foodies can also find a range of experiences and cooking classes to learn to make traditional dishes from scratch. Try this cooking class and farmhouse tour, or an authentic cooking class with locals in Amalfi.
Of course, no trip to the Amalfi Coast is complete without visiting some restaurants overlooking the ocean. Try Donna Emma La Cucina (Amalfi), Ristorante Il Capitano (Positano), or Ristorante L'Antica Cartiera (Marmorata).
Italian Riviera: Here, delicious food is all about freshness, simplicity, and letting high-quality ingredients take center stage. One of the region’s most famous contributions to Italian cuisine is pesto alla Genovese. It’s often served with trofie or trenette pasta and is 100% something you need to try. You’ll also find the crispiest focaccia, either plain with sea salt, stuffed with cheese, or topped with other ingredients like onions, olives, or rosemary. For seafood lovers, the Riviera serves up fresh anchovies, either marinated in lemon, lightly battered and fried, or served in pasta.
When it comes to wine, Vermentino white is a must. It’s crisp and aromatic, and perfect with seafood or pesto. Pigato, Albarola, or Val Polcevera DOC wines are simply lovely, but there’s much more where that came from.
The Riviera offers plenty of opportunities to try some tasty Ligurian cuisine, from pesto-making classes in Genoa using a traditional marble mortar and pestle to a food tour in Sanremo or Santa Margherita Ligure.
Then, end off an epic foodie adventure at one of the Riviera’s stunning restaurants (and there are plenty to choose from). Start with places like Langosteria (Paraggi), Torre Aurora (Monterosso), and Bagni Medusa (Genoa). You won’t be disappointed.
5. Type of Travel Experience
Each region offers a slightly different experience, depending on the type of trip you’re planning. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family, it’s worth thinking about the kind of atmosphere and activities you’re hoping for.
Amalfi Coast: The Amalfi Coast is ideal for those looking for something more romantic or luxurious. It’s a top choice for honeymooners, destination weddings, and bucket-list trips, with a touch of extravagance. The towns feel polished and scenic, and are filled with luxury resorts that offer everything you could need. Think spa treatments, infinity pools, and multi-course seaside dinners.
That said, it’s not all about staying indoors and getting pampered. Active travelers can hike various trails, including the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei). While that trail is the most famous and scenic, there are plenty of others, like Valle delle Ferriere, Torro dello Ziro, or the Spiaggia d'Arienzo trail.
LISTEN: To our podcast on Amalfi Coast Hikes.
Italian Riviera: This region caters to a wider variety of travel styles. There’s a good mix of upscale experiences in places like Portofino and more down-to-earth options in towns like Levanto or Chiavari. It’s perfect for anyone, including solo travelers, families, or those looking for a laid-back escape.
Outdoor lovers can enjoy vineyard walks, spend lazy afternoons at small-town beaches, or walk the popular trails through Cinque Terre. The Blue Path (Sentiero Azzurro) is the most frequently used and stretches along the entire coast. Luckily, it’s divided into smaller sections, like from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza and Corniglia to Manarola. Oh, and you can’t forget the breathtaking Via dell’Amore.
Which is best: Overall, a romantic getaway, honeymoon, or a luxury trip would be better suited to the Amalfi Coast. The Riviera feels a bit more flexible, making it perhaps better suited for travelers who want to mix activity with relaxation and aren’t necessarily focused on luxury.
6. Cost and Budget Considerations
The last factor to consider, and the most important for some, is your budget. Not everyone has unlimited spending, so you’ll want to choose a place where your money goes further and plan accordingly.
Amalfi Coast: Accommodation can be costly here, especially in places like Positano or Ravello that have a lot of boutique hotels and luxury resorts. The same goes for restaurants and transportation. Even simple things like beach access can come with a cost at the more exclusive beach clubs. If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll need to book well in advance and stay in smaller towns like Maiori or Praiano, where prices are more reasonable (although still high for some).
Italian Riviera: There is a much wider range of price points here, so it’s a lot easier to visit if you’re on a budget. If you want to save, you can skip out on luxury resorts in Portofino and opt for more affordable accommodations in smaller towns like Levanto or La Spezia. Transport and eating out will also tend to be a bit less pricey here.
How to plan based on your budget: Everything we’ve mentioned before can affect the price of your trip, so you’ll need to keep your budget in mind throughout. If you have a larger budget, you don’t need to worry too much, but with less money, a little more care is required.
Consider visiting more affordable places if you’re staying for a longer period of time, just to let your money go further. A tighter budget may also mean traveling during shoulder seasons, when prices drop, or choosing the more walkable Riviera, so there’s less need for public transport.
Final Thoughts – Which One is Right for You?
So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about the Amalfi Coast and the Italian Riviera, and deciding which one is right for you. But just to keep things extra simple, here’s a quick summary of everything you need to know:
| If You’re Looking For… | Choose… |
| Glamor and drama | Amalfi Coast |
| Luxury travel | Amalfi Coast |
| Charming villages and ease of travel | Italian Riviera |
| Traveling in spring or fall | Both are great |
| Fewer crowds | Italian Riviera (lesser-known towns) |
| Tighter budget | Italian Riviera |
| First-time visitors | Amalfi Coast (Italian Riviera for a return visit) |
Keep in mind that these aren’t set in stone. At the end of the day, there’s no wrong choice when planning your trip. Both the Amalfi Coast and the Italian Riviera are magical places, and all that matters is what feels right for you.
Experience La Dolce Vita your way, and if all else fails, simply visit both!
Our team of writers and creatives at Untold Italy are experts in keeping you informed and inspired about travel in Italy. Our team collaboration involves writers, photographers and editorial staff dedicated to sharing accurate Italy travel information.
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