Stunningly beautiful Amalfi coast. Climate - typical mediterranean

The Mediterranean coast of Amalfi is surrounded by steep mountain cliffs about 700 meters high. From any of its points, stunning views open, from which it is impossible to take your eyes off. The variety of colors and relief of nature leaves no one indifferent. Shops, churches, villas, as if carved from the rock, floating on top of each other, rise up from the edge of the sea. All buildings are surrounded by terraces and gardens, narrow streets are covered with pebbles and endless steps. Lemons, olives, grapes fill the air with divine aromas.

Amalfi Coast (to Naples - 90 km, to Rome - about 300 km) - favorite place recreation of the bohemian artistic elite (those same eccentrics in berets who respect the antics of the great Dali). It's calm and scenic spots with a wonderful mild climate and wonderful nature.

Weather on the Amalfi Coast

Humidity is quite high in the Amalfi region in summer, so the best time to visit these places is the second half of spring and the beginning of summer (May-June) or the first half of autumn (September-October).

Transport

From Ravello to Amalfi, buses run regularly by the local transport company SITA. The stop is located almost in the center of Ravello.

Two ferries run from the port of Amalfi in the direction of Capri: the fast one travels 50 minutes, the ticket price is 19 EUR, the slow one takes 80 minutes, it costs 17 EUR. You can rent a boat for 35 EUR. From Naples to Salerno can be reached by train in half an hour. Buses run from Salerno to Amalfi, Maiori and Minori, as well as to archaeological zones Pompeii and Paestum.

From Amalfi on a yacht in less than half an hour you can reach Positano or the island of Capri, and by car - an hour and a half to Naples, Pompeii, Ravello or the city of the Greek temples of Paestum.

10 things to do on the Amalfi Coast

1. Visit the rare dilapidated Benedictine monastery of Saints Curico and Judith, built in Atranti.
2. In Amalfi, ride a high-speed ferry. The cost is 7 EUR.
3. Walk personally along the Path of the Gods - an ancient road connecting coastal villages. To do this, you need to take a bus from Amalfi to Agerola, which will take you to the desired point where the trail begins. The walk will take 2 and a half hours. You will have to reach Nocelle, a place above Positano.
4. See how amazing the "Emerald Grotto" is in the small town of Conca dei Marini.
5. visit stalactite caves Grotta di Suppraiano in the microscopic town of Praiano near Positano.
6. Purchase amazing musical instruments handmade by Pascal Scala, in Praiano.
7. On August 15, come to Positano for a big celebration dedicated to the Black Madonna icon, considered the patroness of the city.
8. Try Margherita and Marinara pizzas at a local pizzeria, both of which have received a "quality mark" from the Italian National UNI Standards Committee.
9. Get to the fascinating "Historical Regatta" held every four years with the participation of rowers representing different Italian maritime republics.
10. Take to the streets of Maiori during the Carnival held in February or March, on the eve of Easter, to see the torchlight procession of the "Via Crucis".

Resorts on the Amalfi Coast

Sorrento

Sorrento. For years, locals have built an intricate nest town on top of the mountain, where tourists from all over the world now flock to meditate, looking at amazing sunsets and sunrises away from the noisy center with colorful shops and cafes.

Maiori

The best beaches of the coast are located 60 km from Naples, in the town of Maiori, famous for its stone buildings and medieval towers. Church of Santa Maria a Mare, 12th century will interest you with multi-colored majolica tiles that adorn its roof, and on the neighboring hill of Pontequier rises the castle of St. Nicholas.

Chetara

The real city of fishermen Chetara smelled of salty wind, gear and freedom. And it is also a stronghold untouched by man wildlife and the cleanest beach. The peace of residents and vacationers is guarded by the church of St. Peter, the heavenly patron of Cetara, crowned with a magnificent majolica dome and a bell tower of the 12th century.

Amalfi

Amalfi is located at the very foot of the rocks, so there are only two ways to get here: by sea and through the mountains along a breathtaking serpentine. The city is ideal for lovers of hiking: you can walk for hours along steep paths winding around colorful sights. The symbol of the city is amazing Cathedral St. Andrew of the 9th century, in whose architecture Arabic and Norman styles are intricately intertwined.

Particularly magnificent is the bronze portal of the cathedral and the "Paradise Courtyard" - Chiostro del Paradiso (13th century). The Lungomare embankment enchants once and for all.

The unique Paper Museum della Carta recalls that old paper mills are still operating on the territory of Amalfi in the Valley of the Mills (Balle dei Mulini), the Arsenals of the Republic are interesting in their own way, the Church of San Salvatore de Birecto is amazing, which has become the Palatine Chapel of the Republic of Amalfi, where the Doji were buried. The Museo Civico carefully preserves valuable manuscripts and old manuscripts from the 16th century, such as the Tabula de Amalpha.

Minori

Sunbathe in the shade of lemon groves sand and pebble beaches Minori is possible by spending 5 minutes on the road from Amalfi. The well-preserved Roman Villa with stunning mosaics, as well as the 12th century basilica of the patroness of Minori Saint Trofimena, the museum of ancient Roman amphoras and the Museum of Antiquaria are worth a visit, amazing calmness reigns around the Bell Tower of Annunziata.

Positano

In the gorge of the mountains, Positano hid from the sea winds, compact and no less picturesque resort stuck in a completely different time. Between the multi-colored houses decorated with majolica, the streets are so narrow that it is impossible to drive along it by car. The main attraction is the Romanesque church of Santa Maria Assunta from the 13th century, which houses the miraculous icon of the Black Madonna. No wonder the resort attracts filmmakers from all over the world: more than thirty films have been shot here. Noisy parties take place in the disco bar Musik on the rock right on the beach and in the vibrant dance club The Africana. Sufficiently modern private houses and hotels of the coast are closely pressed against each other, a small port is full of fishing boats. If you get up early in the morning, you can buy the freshest fish at the local market.

Picturesque is Montepertuso, a quarter of Positano, whose center is centered around the Fontana Vecchia. On both sides it is framed by a cave and a niche depicting the patroness of Montepertuso Madonna Santa Maria delle Grazie. Pure flows in the Fountain drinking water for which residents come specially. Nearby there are the remains of the Torre di Giammarino (1528), built by Baron Giovanni Marino Mastrogiudice, as well as Mount Gambera (510 m), famous for that the meeting of the Madonna with the devil took place here, traces of which are visible on the rock next to the imprint of the tail of the devil.

Salerno is the pulsing heart of the Amalfi Coast, Italy's maritime vein, famous for its pompous promenade, historic center and active medical school of the late Middle Ages.

Praiano

Nearby is the tiny town of Praiano, dotted with paths and intricate stairs, famous for its excellent diving center La Boa. The churches of San Luca (St. Luke) and San Gennaro (St. Gennaro) are amazing, and especially their viewing platforms. On a rocky ledge stands the invisible guardian of the town - the Tower of Torre a Mare of medieval origin, to which the winding path of Scala di Praia leads, called "Luogo del Cuore" (place of heartfelt emotions).

If you go on a boat trip, you can get up close and personal with sights such as the Grotte di Suppriano Cave, Grotta dell'Africana, Cala della Gavitella, Torre di Grado and secluded beach Le Prayer.

Ravello

Ravello is a colorful city looming over turquoise sea ​​waters where Grieg and Wagner liked to relax. An ideal place for lovers, so a frequent sight is wedding corteges on the streets of the resort. The 13th-century Villa Rufolo plays the sounds of the Open Air Music Festival all summer long, while Villa Cimbrone, with the legendary "terrace of infinity", is Ravello's inspiration. But the rarest treasure of the city is kept in the Cathedral of St. Panteleimon - a capsule with the saint's gore, which becomes liquid once a year. The picturesque boulevard in the city center smoothly flows into the terrace of Richard Wagner, and it is not surprising that every minute there are enchanting sounds made by local musicians. At the other end of the boulevard is Belvedere di Mercurio, recognized as the most popular part of the city. There is also an unusual museum Museo del Corallo, which will tell you everything about corals.

The key monument of the city is the church of San Giovanni del Toro, decorated with frescoes depicting scenes from the Holy Scriptures.

Salerno

Salerno is the pulsing heart of the Amalfi Coast, Italy's maritime vein, famous for its pompous promenade, interesting historical center and active medical school of the late Middle Ages. You need to look at the territory of the Abbey of San Benedetto, and at the archaeological museum and at the Pinacoteca, and at the Areca Castle, where the medieval water supply system is still preserved!

The coast is known for its mountainous landscape, natural beauty and small picturesque cities. In addition, it is protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Italy is known for its beauty. However, not everyone knows that in different parts of it, the climate and the sensations from the rest will be different. Each part of the country has its own unique features, including the Amalfi Coast. The reviews say it's worth a visit.

general description

The coast is accompanied by impregnable cliffs of mountains. Their height is no more than 700 m. They are very picturesque, natural landscapes- one of the main advantages of this part of Italy. They can often be seen in the photo. However, here you can find many traces of a person:

• palaces;
• villas;
• the shops;
• hotels, etc.

The buildings are surrounded by dense vegetation: gardens, parks, etc. The slopes of the mountains are covered with orange groves, narrow streets cozy cities lead to the sea. Many of these places resemble paradise. It is not uncommon for people to travel along the Amalfi Coast just to visit one of their favorite cities. Celebrities are no exception. Leonardo DiCaprio, Paul McCartney and others like it here. Many of them have their own property here, for example, Sophia Loren or Franco Zeffirelli.

The climate is typical mediterranean:

• hot summer: +28–30 °C;
• non-cold winter: +13–17 °C;
• on the beaches they usually start swimming from the end of May.

Sorrento

Sorrento - according to reviews, one of the most famous cities on the map of the Amalfi Coast. Rest here has its own characteristics. No a large number places of entertainment, infrastructure is less developed than in other famous places on the coast of Italy. But the nature is amazing, and the rest is measured. Here you can safely relax, unwind and recover from psychological overload at work. The benefits include:

• solid hotels;
• comfortable private beaches;
• beautiful panoramas at sea, etc.

If you still need to send further along the Amalfi Coast of Italy, then it is better to do this by car. It can be rented. The alternative is a bus. For example, it takes about 1.5 hours to get to Amalfi from Sorrento by this mode of transport. You can get off earlier, at one of the intermediate stops.

Positano

Positano - extremely beautiful city. It is located in a mountain gorge, the sea coast is sheer. According to the reviews of those who have been there, it is as if not from our time. Colorful houses huddle in the mountains, and the streets are so narrow that it is inconvenient to drive along them. Although modern yachts are already “parked” on the seashore.

The "heart" of the city and its main attraction is the Church of Santa Maria, shown in the photo. This Romanesque church was built in the 12th century. Here is the Black Madonna - a famous miraculous icon.

Extremely beautiful quarter of Montepertuso. In its very center is a fountain. On the one hand, a cave adjoins it, on the other, a niche with the image of the patroness of this part of the city. Nearby is Mount Gambera with a height of more than 500 m. According to reviews, this place destroys the stereotypes that rest on the mainland is noticeably inferior to the island. No wonder the city is loved by directors. More than 30 pictures have already been shot in the vicinity. A lot of photos are taken here by ordinary people.

For lovers of fun, always at the service and other holidays on the Amalfi Coast:

• dance club;
• disco bar in the middle of the beach, etc.

Here are some of the best beaches on the coast of Italy:

1. La Spiaggia Grande is the largest in Amalfitan, although the length is not a record one: 300 m. big beach Positano is loved by celebrities and ordinary tourists.
2. La Spiaggia di Fornillo is a bit harder to get to. Located further from the main streets of the city. There are beautiful small bays here. Fornilo is no less popular than the Big Beach.

Praiano

If you move further towards Amalfi, along the way, just a few kilometers from Positano, on the map you will come across a small city ​​- Praiano. The population hardly reaches a thousand people, but it deserves attention.

Although there are no numerous entertainments, luxurious hotels of the Amalfi Coast, there are some advantages. The sea here is amazing, crystal clear and calm. Not many people, but natural beauty- one of the best in Italy. This place is revered by diving enthusiasts. Here is their center La Boa.

There are many in the city ancient buildings, winding streets and unusual staircases in courtyards. There are hotels, two ancient temples:

• Church of St. Gennaro, built in the XII century;
• church of St. Luke.

Both temples have excellent viewing platforms from which you can admire the opening view of the coast. On a ledge among the rocks, the medieval tower of Torre a Mare is noticeable. You can also walk to it along a narrow old path.

Amalfi

Amalfi - city which gave its name to this coast of Italy. It used to be the capital of the peninsula. Situated at the base of the mountains. You can get here by sea or by serpentine. There are many hotels and attractions here. Someone likes to just wander along the paths in the mountains and admire nature.

The main attraction is the Cathedral of St. Andrew. Built in the 11th century. The relics of St. Andrew the First-Called are kept here. The architecture of the building is unusual and combines Arabic and Norman styles. The portal of the cathedral, called the "Paradise Yard", is also very beautiful. It dates back to the 13th century and is made of bronze.

From other attractions of the Amalfi Coast here, for example:

The beaches here are decent, however, according to reviews, they are not the best on the coast. Compared to Positano, they lack picturesqueness. Pebbles predominate. You can name the following:

1. Central - next to the port. Usually there are a lot of people.
2. La Duoglio - located to the right of the previous one. There are fewer people, the water is cleaner.
3. Atrani - located about a kilometer from Amalfi. Probably the best in the area. Mostly Italians rest here, but there are also tourists. Shore - from volcanic sand, nature is extremely beautiful, the water is crystal clear. You can sunbathe for free, and paying for a sunbed.
4. Santa Croce - known for local fun. Here they like to dive into the sea from large stones - boulders. If you have your own towel, sunbed, you can pay nothing.

You can get here:

1. By own or rented car. It is important to remember that the journey will take place along a serpentine, independent management- not easy.
2. By bus from or Salerno. Trains, buses from others, for example, from.
3. By taxi. Be aware that prices will be high.

Maiori

Maiori - optimal location rest for those who care about the beaches and their proximity to the hotel. Here they are the longest on the coast. Hotel prices are lower.

There are fewer people on the beaches and in the city center. Roads are more convenient, this is not a serpentine. You can also get there by bus from Sorrento or Salerno.

Minori

Minori- an even quieter place than Minori. There are no busy roads or large supermarkets here. Instead of them - a narrow serpentine and small cozy shops. To the nearest settlements boats depart from the pier. It is better to take care of tickets in advance, because there are many people who want to and there may not be enough for everyone.

The beaches are calm, sandy and pebbly. Vacationers are few. Everywhere - lemon and orange orchards, the smell of which spreads around the area.

There are attractions for excursions:

• the basilica of the patroness of the city of St. Trofimena, dating from the 12th century;
• Belfry of the Annunziata;
• museum of amphorae and other antiquities;
• Roman villa with rare mosaics, etc.

Salerno

Salerno - Big City with port, the second largest in its region. Its center is Naples.

There are also hotels, beaches, however, according to reviews, it is more pleasant to relax on the sea in smaller towns such as Positano. But there are more attractions. During excursions along the Amalfi Coast, here you can see, for example:

The Amalfi Coast of Italy is of rare beauty and developed infrastructure tourism: hotels, beach equipment, etc. All cities, as a rule, are located close to each other. In whatever place the vacationer stays, there is always the opportunity to quickly get to neighboring resort, travel, compare and choose your favorite.

Gathered next year either here or in Spain. By car. Rights, however, recently received. I looked on the Internet what a serpentine is and thought. Maybe, better spain? Even though it's quiet there. But by next year, maybe it will settle down somehow. Or maybe I can already master this mountain serpentine. Has anyone ridden there?

Nadia, I won’t lie, the Italians haven’t had one either, but we also have serpentine in Krasnodar. The "snake" is the same as at the training ground. Only harder and more dangerous. There will be no time to think especially, especially if someone comes across. And there, apparently, there should be a lot of people.

The vestibular apparatus should be good if you travel for a long time. You need to stock up on some of the pills. Not for myself, but others may need it. And tiresome. And relax, the “ditch” is big there 🙂

Plus, we had traffic jams in the area of ​​​​the towns, drivers climbed, cut. You need to be able to maneuver in a small patch. Or you will stand for a long time, or an accident. It is hardly better in Italy. They always have a tension there with a place, and even advertised resorts, world-class ones. So if I were you, I would think about the bus. Well, or enhanced training 🙂

My wife and I liked it. Too bad I don't know much Italian. It turned out like in that joke about problems in communication. I didn’t have them, but the locals did 🙂 In general, people there are sociable. They never refused to help, go somewhere and in general ...

There are many on our planet beautiful countries. Undoubtedly, they include sunny Italy. Gorgeous natural landscapes, majestic mountains and volcanoes, a myriad of monuments of history, culture, architecture - all this attracts millions of tourists from all over the world.

But there is in this southern country a truly heavenly place. The slopes of the mountains here are covered with orange groves, colorful houses local residents with large cozy terraces conquer with their originality, and shady narrow streets lead to an unusually clear and blue sea. Some may think that this is not possible in our time. But they are wrong. Such a place really exists - it is the Amalfi Coast in Italy, located 90 kilometers from Naples and 300 kilometers from Rome.

Surrounded by steep mountain cliffs. Their height does not exceed seven hundred meters. From here, amazing views open up that captivate at first sight. Numerous shops and churches, villas and palaces seem to be carved from the rock. They "float" on top of each other, rushing up, from the very edge of the sea. All buildings are surrounded by gardens and terraces, narrow streets are covered with pebbles. Olives, grapes, lemons fill the air with extraordinary exquisite aromas.

Climatic conditions

The climate on the coast is Mediterranean, with enough warm winter(+13-17 °C) and very hot summer - +28-30°C. Swimming in May beach season usually starts at the end of May.

Where to visit, what to see on the coast?

If you are lucky enough to come to the Amalfi Coast of Italy, be sure to visit Amalfi, take a ride here on a high-speed ferry. In Atrantri, see the ancient Saints Judith and Curico.

Don't forget to walk the Path of the Gods. This is an ancient road connecting coastal villages. To get to it, you need to take a bus from Amalfi to Agerola. He will bring you to the place where the trail begins. A fascinating walk will take just over two hours.

Enter the stalactite caves located in the tiny town of Praiano, next to Positano. If you will rest in August, then visit Positano on the 15th. On this day, there is a holiday dedicated to the patroness of the city - the Black Madonna.

Huge popularity with Russian tourists currently used by Italy. The Amalfi Coast (tours can be bought in almost every travel agency in our country) guarantees you a great quality vacation both with family and friends. Let's get acquainted with the resorts of the coast in more detail.

Coast resorts

A trip along the Amalfi Coast in Italy will give you great pleasure. According to tourists, this is not only an amazingly beautiful, but also a very romantic place. Cute little resort towns are completely different and original. They are attractive in their own way, their bays and steep mountain cliffs are picturesque, which seem to touch the tops of the clouds.

Amalfi Coast of Italy: Maiori

In this city, located sixty kilometers from Naples, are the most best beaches on the coast. Maiori is famous for its famous medieval towers and stone buildings.

The ancient temple of Santa Maria a Mare (XII century) is the main attraction of the city. Its roof is decorated with multi-colored majolica tiles, which gives the building a special appeal. On the next hill (Pontecquier) you will see majestic castle St. Nikola.

Sorrento

Russian guides who conduct excursions on the Amalfi coast of Italy always note that Sorrento is the most famous and most visited resort. Vacationers who wish to combine a beach holiday with entertainment and sightseeing will feel comfortable here.

Indeed, this small town ok, the symbol of which is a lemon, is created by nature itself for relaxation. Here the Amalfi coast of Italy is especially beautiful. Stendhal and Goethe, Mendelssohn and Rossini, Dickens and Caruso liked to visit this town. Attracts Sorrento and Italians. The inhabitants of this sunny country happy to spend their holidays or weekends here.

Chetara

Small and very beautiful town of fishermen. The air of Chetara is saturated with salty wind and freedom. In addition, the town is famous for its untouched nature and the cleanest beach. Peace and tranquility reign here.

The pride of the inhabitants of the city is the Church of St. Peter. This saint is the patron saint of Chetara. The church is crowned with a magnificent majolica dome (XII century).

Amalfi

This city, which gave its name to the entire coast, is located at the foot of the cliffs. For this reason, you can get into it only by sea or through the mountains along a dizzying serpentine. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy here - you can walk along the steep paths for hours, seeing the picturesque sights.

The symbol of the city is the magnificent Cathedral of St. Andrew (IX century). Norman and Arabic styles are intricately intertwined in its architecture. The portal of the Cathedral "Paradise Yard" (XIII century), made of bronze, is also unusually beautiful. Nice to stroll along the Lungomare promenade.

Amazes tourists and the Della Carta Paper Museum. He reminds guests that the old paper mills still operate in Amalfi today. Travelers will also be interested in an excursion to the Arsenals of the Republic, and a visit to the amazing church of San Salvatore de Birecto, where the doges are buried.

Minori

The Amalfi coast of Italy is attractive for tourists because the cities here are located very close to each other. Therefore, if desired, you can move from resort to resort without spending a lot of time.

On the sand and pebble beaches of this resort, you can relax in the shade of orange groves. From Amalfi, you can get here in just five minutes.
The sights of this town include a well-preserved Roman villa with magnificent mosaics, the basilica of the patroness of the city of St. Trofimena (XII century), the Museum of Ancient Roman Amphorae and Antiquaries, the magnificent Annunziata Bell Tower.

(Amalfi Coast)

This picturesque resort is hidden in a mountain gorge, hidden from the sea winds. Many tourists believe that Positano seems to be lost in another time. Between the pretty houses decorated with majolica and painted in different colors, the streets are so narrow that it is impossible to move along them by car.

The main attraction of the city is the Romanesque church of Santa Maria (XII century). It contains the icon of the Black Madonna, recognized as miraculous. This picturesque resort attracts many directors from all over the world. More than thirty films have already been filmed here.

Fans of noisy parties can have fun here in the disco bar, which is located right on the beach or in a bright and original dance club.
Particularly picturesque is Montepertuso, a quarter of the city centered around the Vecchia fountain. On both sides it is framed by a cave and a niche, above which the patroness of Montepertuso is depicted. Nearby is Mount Gambera (510 m).

Praiano

Very close to Positano is the tiny town of Praiano, which is crossed by numerous paths and intricate stairs. This resort is extremely popular among diving enthusiasts. Here is the famous center of La Boa.

lovers ancient architecture the churches of St. Luke and St. Gennaro (XII century) will be of interest, especially their observation platforms, which offer stunning views of the coast. The Torre a Mare tower rises on a rocky ledge, the history of which goes back to the Middle Ages. A narrow winding path leads to it.

Ravello

Another colorful town that literally hangs over the bright turquoise waters of the sea. Wagner and Grieg liked to rest here. This is an ideal place for newlyweds - wedding processions are very common on the streets of this city.

Villa Rufolo (XIII century) became the site of an annual music festival. The most important treasure of this town is carefully kept in the Cathedral of St. Panteleimon - a capsule with the saint's blood. It is caked, but once a year the blood becomes liquid.

The central boulevard of the city smoothly turns into the terrace of Richard Wagner. It is not at all surprising that the enchanting sounds of his music performed by local musicians are carried here.

Salerno

And at the end of our small trip we will visit the pulsing heart of the coast - the beautiful Salerno, which is famous for its beautiful waterfront, historical center and medical school (active) of the late Middle Ages. Be sure to check out the archaeological museum and the Pinacoteca, on the territory of the abbey of San Benedetto. And in the castle of Areki you can see the medieval plumbing that has survived to this day.

Visa and tickets

Bought over the internet special offer Alitalia 326 euro round trip. It was available only on the website, that is, only through electronic payment. Very comfortably. You give your passport at the airport - no problem. There was a real problem with the payment - Unicredit Bank, for example, did not make the payment, explaining that the security system on the airline's website was insufficient for them. I had to borrow a card from another bank from my friends and pay it off.

They also bothered with the visa themselves, because. there was no desire to pay 250 euros for something that costs 35 euros. The most important thing here is that you need to sign up 2.5-3 months before the trip. We called on April 30 and at first they offered us on July 8, we hardly managed to agree to hand over the documents on July 2. They are required to consider the application for 4 working days. Documents must be submitted not to the embassy on Smolenka, but to the Consular Department, which is located on Yakimanskaya Embankment. Registration is only through a paid reference, they can also clarify all the details about the documents. It cost us a thousand rubles.

Apartment

We booked the apartment through the Halldis agency. I recommend. My sister found it online by typing "apartments for rent". They have a very decent housing stock and, which is nice, they have a Russian manager, although the office is in Milan. Our apartment was located in the historic center in the Trastevere area, a stone's throw from the Tiber - it cost 615 euros for 7 days.

Drive

Rome is something special. It is somewhat reminiscent of Kyiv, but in Kyiv there is more greenery. But in Rome, paving stones are everywhere, which makes it so cozy, intimate. And the streets are so narrow that mopeds are really the best and most passable form of transport.

Covering everything at once in one trip is unrealistic. I recommend identifying places that are of interest to you personally, and walking around Rome, as they say, without fanaticism. get around historical Center(within the Aurelian Walls) it is really possible on foot, but after the first two days we realized that it is much better to use buses, because that way there will not be enough strength. We bought the Roma Pugh Pass for 25 euros per person - for 3 days free transport and the first 2 museums for free, the rest at a discount. It paid off. It is also nice that they got to the Colosseum without a queue at all. You can buy a Roma Pew Pass on the official website with a credit card, and you can get it where you specify from the list of places.

Travel by bus and metro costs 1 euro. A single travel card for three days costs 11 euros, for a week - 17 euros. You need to buy tickets in vending machines, everything is very simple there, you just need to press 2 buttons.

Italians really don't speak English well. Which, however, does not bother them or tourists from all countries, who in Rome are almost as many as local residents. With gestures, they will be able to explain everything - the main thing is not to be afraid to ask. I can’t say that they seemed very friendly to me, but in any case, they are definitely not closed :)

We also went for a day in Naples- the ultimate goal was Amalfi. You buy a ticket to Naples at the station (we bought a passing train, the end of which was Taranto, so we were very scared when we didn’t see the inscription Napoli Centrale on the scoreboard), tickets there cost 20 euros per person, back - 10.50 euros per person. We took the return ones in Naples immediately upon arrival.

We arrived in Naples at 9.30 - travel time 2.10. We left at 20:36. We went straight from the station to the port. Because did not know how to get there, they asked the first grandfather who came across. He didn’t just put us on the bus - but drove to the port, took us and said goodbye only when he saw our tickets for the boat. If this grandpa doesn't come across to you: at Piazza Garibaldi, the final bus stop (50 meters from the station straight ahead). We got into R3, although as I understand it, the street along the sea is their main street, and many buses run along it. Drive 15-20 minutes. In general, Naples is more open and sincere than Rome. It's over dirtier, you can't argue with that.

Boat up Amalfi (Positano) goes not so often, tk. travel time 2.30. Highly recommend going to Positano and not Amalfi. There the beach is much better, and there is where to walk. Amalfi is just a solid rock and a piece of the embankment. There is nothing to do at all. Another indicator - all the locals went to Positano, only we and the family, it seems, Americans, went to Amalfi. One way ticket 15 euros.

The bus costs about 5-6 euros, but it takes exactly half an hour longer, maybe more. The road is serpentine, somewhere right above the abyss, but we were not able to evaluate this, because. the bus schedule was quite inconvenient for us, so we went there and back by boat. And the road was just seen from the sea.

I cannot but say that our Crimea (especially if crests are removed from there) will simply give this Amalfi Coast a hundred points ahead. Apparently, those who have spent many thousands of euros simply do not want to admit it, because Europe is so cool for us.

In Rome itself, every day we walked around a certain area (or two nearby). Churches should be viewed from 9 am to 12 pm. Then they close and open after 4 pm. At 6 o'clock they have evening mass. I recommend Santa Croce in Jerusalem (near San Giovania in Laterano) and Il Gesa.

Vatican and San Pietro. The queue goes very quickly, but it's still better to come at 11 o'clock, the queue is still less than at 2 o'clock, for example. Dress code - covered shoulders and knees. Otherwise they won't let you in. We climbed to the dome. I recommend. A ticket with an elevator costs 7 euros (about 300 steps), without an elevator 5 euros (about 500 steps). It took about 2 hours to inspect the cathedral with a dome. Next we went to the Vatican Museum. The ticket costs 14 euros. This will take a lot of effort, because. the corridors seem just endless, and the volume of the collection is amazing. See Sistine Chapel succeed only when you go through all the halls - just such torture.

Tivoli- an area 60 km from Rome. There is the villa of Hadrian, D'Este and Gregorian. 40 minutes bus ride, nice place. To do this, you need to get to the Ponte Mamolo metro station, right at the exit of the final bus station. Departure to Tivoli every 15 minutes somewhere. The villas are beautiful, I liked Adrian's villa more, my sister - in D Este, I recommend visiting both. It will take somewhere all day hours until 7 pm. Tickets are discounted (valid Roma Pew Pass) about 6 euros.

Nutrition

Ice cream is like a separate dish, you don’t feel like eating at all, it costs from 2 to 5 euros, depending on the volume. I recommend pistachio. You can buy anywhere - everywhere is delicious (sign Gelateria). The pizza is delicious too, of course. It costs from 7 to 10 euros somewhere. For lunch, we for two with one dish for each (pasta or pizza) gave about 25 euros. The cost of coffee at the bar is two times less than if you sit down at a table. Just like that, you drink it in 5 minutes and leave, otherwise you will sit for at least an hour or two. Pay for time. A cappuccino costs about 3-4 euros. You can drink water from fountains - well, special drinking fountains, they are similar to our pumps in a summer cottage.

Most of the Russians met near the Trevi Fountain, where it is not possible to get pleasure from the abundance of people, on the contrary, I want to leave this place as soon as possible. And in Tivoli.

Telephone communications

You can buy a card for 3 euros - vending machines on every corner. If you call her to Russia - two times is enough (very quickly talk if). There are much more cheap option- thanks to IP telephony. We found this wonderful place near Termini station. Minute of conversation with Russia - 20 cents. It was an ordinary Internet cafe.

How to find that place. If you look at the station face, then on the left. When you enter the station through main entrance, then there will be two outputs on the left and on the right. We need the one on the left - it still has capital letters Termini. Get out through it, in front of you is a sign of the Hotel, cross the road and go a little deeper into the street, literally 20 meters.

shopping

In Rome (as in all of Italy) quality products leather. Half of course is made in Florence. We got into the sales season and bought a Furla bag for 80 euros. The choice is simply huge - from world famous brands for very decent money (300-500 euros), to high-quality and simple bags of unknown designers for 25-100 euros.

Pile of Murano glass. We bought a candy bowl for 30 euros, a ring for 3 euros, earrings for 12 euros. It also makes sense to buy shoes, gloves. Clothes, in principle, are the same everywhere, but there is something that we don’t have, of course. The main shopping street is Via Corso and the streets adjacent to it.

In general, Rome, of course, is beautiful - the eternal City what can I say.

The Amalfi Coast, nicknamed for its beauty and picturesqueness Amalfi Riviera attracts tourists from all over the world.

People come here not for the lazy beach holiday, but for the magnificent landscapes and historical sights that adorn its ancient cities. Clear sea, cozy beaches, numerous hotels and restaurants are a nice bonus when relaxing in this area.

Amalfi coast of Italy on the world map

Resorts The Amalfi Coast is not only a favorite holiday destination for the Italians themselves, but also attracts a wealthy audience from countries and who prefer this area to other European resorts.

The coast is especially popular with the bohemian public and people of creative professions.

Story

The Amalfi duchy existed in southern Italy in the 9th and 10th centuries AD. City of Amalfi was founded in 339 AD and was originally part of the Duchy of Naples. In 839, freed from the troops of the Principality of Benevento, who captured the city, the townspeople chose a prefect for themselves.

Together with the cities of Atrani and Salerno, the Amalfi Republic was organized, formally dependent on Byzantium. In 958, the inhabitants chose Doge (Duke) Sergius I, and the feudal state was transformed into Amalfi duchy.

The duchy became a wealthy trading state, contesting the dominion of Genoa and Pisa over the western Mediterranean. In this republic, the norms of maritime law were developed, which served as the main code for merchants and sailors for 500 years.

The city is famous for its cultural atmosphere that help to support jazz festival, passing in the summer, and the festival classical music held on the territory of the Roman Villa in September.

Positano

According to urban legend, Positano was created god of the seas Poseidon and is named after his beloved daughter Pasithea. The city is considered one of the oldest on the Amalfi Coast, status resort center he acquired back in Roman times.

Now Positano is small (less than 4 thousand people) resort town on the coast of the Gulf of Salerno, attracting wealthy tourists and people of creative professions from all over the world.

Positano distinguishes extraordinary beauty: the houses of the city, located on mountain terraces, "descend" down the rock to sea ​​coast. The picturesque appearance attracts filmmakers - more than 30 films have been shot on the territory of the city.

The main attractions of Positano are:

1. Church of Santa Maria Assunta, erected in the 13th century, especially distinguished by its dome covered with majolica;
2. Three medieval watchtowers (Tore Sponda, Tore-Trazita And Tore del Fornillo);
3. Lee Galli Islands, located near Positano, are distinguished by the Aragonese tower of the 14th century and the old monastery, later turned into a prison;
4. "Path of the Gods"- a narrow mountain path that connects Positano with Praiano, is distinguished by colorful views over steep cliffs among the rocks.

Positano hosts an annual International Ballet Festival in honor of the Russian choreographer L. Myasin, who lived in the city.

Praiano

One of the smallest resorts on the coast, with less than 2,000 residents, is located 3 kilometers from Positano. Praiano attracts mainly lovers of the quiet in the midst of stunning nature.

The city is famous for its medieval temples:

• Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist with a dome decorated with majolica, antique frescoes and tiled floors;
• Church of St. Luke the Evangelist 12th century, in which part of the relics of this saint found rest;
• Church of San Gennaro 16th century, built in the style of Renaissance architecture.

Praiano is famous for its fish restaurants preparing dishes from local raw materials.

Ravello

Despite its coastal position, the upper part of Ravello is 350 meters above the sea. The reason for this is that Ravello is located on a steep slope mountains of Lattari, and from its territory offers a stunning view of the bay.

The ancient city, having experienced the peak of its development during the Duchy of Amalfi, fell into decay by the 19th century, but was literally revived and popularized by creative personalities who discovered their muse in Ravello: R. Wagner and E. Grieg, A. Gide and G. Vidal, D. Lawrence and T. Williams worked here, and the artist W. Turner captured Ravello in dozens of his paintings.

The main attraction of Ravello is Villa Ruffolo, erected in the 13th century and mentioned by Giovanni Boccaccio in the famous Decameron.

On the territory of the villa there is a 30-meter Moorish tower. music Festival open air.

Another famous villa of the city is Villa Cimbrone built in the 19th century. It is famous for its "Terrace of Infinity", which offers a panoramic view of the bay, recognized as one of the most colorful sights in the world.

Salerno

Salerno - largest city Amalfi Coast and its logistics and tourist center. The ancient city, which is over 2200 years old, has a lot of attractions that attract tourists:

1. Cathedral of St. Matthew built in the second half of the 11th century, the relics of the saint are stored in a crypt at the base of the temple. The cathedral combines a Romanesque portal, an Islamic colonnade and a Baroque crypt. The church houses the tomb of Pope Gregory II, who consecrated the cathedral. The papal chapel is built from the stones of an ancient Roman temple and decorated with frescoes over a thousand years old;
2. Fortress of Areki rises 250 meters above the city and is one of the oldest buildings Salerno. The foundation of the fortress was laid in the distant 8th century by the Lombards, who then ruled the city;
3. Fort Karnale was built in the middle of the 16th century and was intended to protect against Muslim pirates who attacked the city for many centuries. Now the fort hosts various cultural events;
4. Benedictine monastery of Santa Sofia, founded in the 10th century, was abandoned for a long time, but is currently restored and hosts exhibitions;
5. Fragments of an ancient aqueduct, dating from the 9th century, are calling card Salerno. The water pipeline in the Middle Ages covered the entire city, and its openwork arches were the pride of local engineers.

Did you know that the most famous volcano in the world is located in Italy? Read about him and other acting giants of the world.

Salerno is home to many festivals, the most popular of which is the "Artists of Light": all winter, from November to February, the streets of the city are decorated with numerous light displays of bizarre shapes.

• Top tip when visiting the coast - try to see everything during a short vacation.
• Definitely worth enjoying the famous Italian cuisine . The Amalfi Coast is famous for its fish restaurants and local Limoncello liqueur, it is also the birthplace of Margherita and Marinara pizzas.
• Necessarily Worth a walk on the Path of the Gods connecting the various towns in the Amalfi region.
• Despite the huge number of coasts, worth the time to visit Naples, Mount Vesuvius, the ruins of Pompeii, the island of Capri or go to the ancient city of Paestum with buildings of the 6th century BC.

All these attractions are located a few tens of kilometers from the coast.

• It is worth visiting the coast not only in holiday season, but also winter when numerous carnivals and festivals take place in local cities.