Ahh . . . the Amalfi Coast, my paradise!  My husband and I honeymooned here, and the trip was perfection.  I like to start in Sorrento because it really has so much to offer, the beautiful views of the Bay of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius are just the beginning.  This is the place where lemons rule, I have converted many friends to the delicious liquer, Limoncello.  You drink it straight from the freezer after lunch or dinner and you are in heaven.  If you haven't been, Pompeii is truly an experience.  I recommend a guided tour, there is just too much to see and the ancient history behind it is essential.  A 30 minute drive along the Costiera Amalfitana brings you to Positano.  While having its share of tourists, Positano is also where the Italians vacation.  This is where you relax, eat, drink wine, shop and just soak in the beauty.  If you have a car or want to take a bus, you can visit several other destinations along the coast.  The city of Amalfi, the coasts largest town has a beautiful 10th century Duomo.  Further along is Ravello, the views from here can be a spiritual experience!  The best places to take in this exceptional beauty are the Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo.  They have beautiful gardens among lemon trees, and vineyards up and down the hillside, sculptures and fountains.  You can enjoy a sunset classical concert overlooking the Mediterranean in the Summer at the Ravello Concert Society or inside different historical sites.  You must make the time to visit the island of Capri.  You can take a boat from Naples, Sorrento, or Positano.  Stay over night or many nights to really enjoy the island experience.  We took a private boat around the island and couldn't have been happier, what an amazing day exploring and swimming in the sea!  The Blue Grotto, very touristy, but you almost have to do it, the pictures are worth the wait.  You must start off your Capri evenings in the Piazetta, having a prosecco and people watching.  Make a reservation at one of the private beaches with views to die for, Da Luigi or La Fontelina, and making time for lunch on the rocks makes it all the more special.  Again, Capri is about soaking up the sun, eating and relaxing.  Don't forget the shopping!

Sorrento Lemons

An aperitivo at the Villa Cimbrone in Ravello

Dining alfresco at Max in Positano

La Fontelina Beach in Capri, Reservations required!

Hotels

Hotel Bellevue Syrene Sorrento, views of the Bay of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius from your private beach, bellisimo!

Palazzo Murat Positano, an 18th century palace, a gorgeous outdoor dinning experience, truly romantic.

Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi luxury on the coast, close to Amalfi city center and a short drive to Ravello. The hotel is part of a 13th century Norman-Arab cloister.

Punta Tragara Capri, a 5 star hotel, surrounded in natural beauty overlooking the legendary Faraglioni cliffs. The service is impeccable, the restaurant serves amazing local dishes, lunch at the pool is a must!

Grand Hotel Vesuvio Naples, if you must stay in Naples, this hotel is elegant with beautiful views of the Bay of Naples and a roof top restaurant that makes it all the more desirable.

Restaurants & Cafes

Ristorante O' Parrucchiano Sorrento, a historical landmark and local favorite, with a pretty garden ambiance.

Al Palazzo Ristorante  Positano, in the Palazzo Murat hotel, my dream restaurant, candle lit garden and exceptional food.

Ristorante Max Positano, wine bar, restaurant, art gallery, fun!

Cumpa' Cosimo Ravello, Nonna Nettie's treasure, made famous by Jackie O.

Ristorante Aurora  Capri, exceptional, this place was packed after midnight with locals and tourists alike.

Da Paolino Capri, an outdoor garden restaurant filled with lemon trees, all things limone! And wait for it . . . an air conditioned dessert buffet room!!

Travel Tip

Don't forget, Napoli Capodichino, Naples International airport. It's only an hour drive to Sorrento, and an hour and a half to the Amalfi Coast from this airport.  You can also take a ferry boat from the airport to your destinations along the Amalfi Coast.