The Amalfi Coast and Sardinia are two of Italy's hottest travel destinations. Michael and I visited there a few summers ago and enjoyed exploring the restaurants and boutiques, and taking day trips to different beaches and islands. My love for Italy runs deep and I seem to keep heading back there (check out my previous blog, Trip to Rome and Southern Italy).
Since everyone seems to be travelling again, I thought it would be a good time to share my vacation recos for these incredible bucket list destinations in two very special Italian locations. The Italian culture has a certain je ne sais quoi. I admire their appreciation for quality and style--they certainly pay attention to the details whether it’s food or fashion.
Keep scrolling to see where to stay, dine and shop! I also added a shopping carousel with some great things to bring on your trip, so check it out. Ciao bella!
xxMelissa
Click on photos in carousel to shop
Pack comfortable chic clothing for this trip—there are lots of hilly, winding cobblestone roads to navigate. I recommend wear flat sandals, comfortable block heels, or wedges if you must bring heels.
Zimmermann Romper, at Villa Cimbrone in Ravello
Michael and I started the trip in Sardinia and later met up with friends in Amalfi. Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and is known for its sandy beaches and beautiful mountain peaks. We stayed at Cala di Volpe, one of the most beautiful hotels in that area.
Next, we headed to the Amalfi Coast which is well-known for its small beaches, boutiques, food and fishing villages. The roads are dotted with lemon groves that smell amazing! We stayed in a villa with some our close friends in Amalfi and took several boat trips to many of our favorite local beach restaurants.
Stay
Sardinia and The Amalfi Coast are known some of the nicest hotels. It’s awesome if you can stay there but still fun to go hotel hopping (like we did for some) to eat lunch or dinner at these places to get a feel for the vibe. I listed some of my favorites below.
Click the links on the hotels listed below to get more information and book your stay.
Sardinia
Cala di Volpi
This hotel has been on my bucket list for years! The rooms were recently renovated and thoughtfully designed to reflect the vibrance of Sardinia. It's a perfect combination of comfort, luxury, and local design. Handcrafted furniture makes each room feel unique, and the plush bathrobes and premium bath products make the hotel feel like home. The lunch buffet there was one of the best I’ve ever experienced offering the freshest local ingredients, and the cocktails are literally a work of art. There are fabulous local vendors at the beach club with gorgeous caftans, dresses, and jewelry at reasonable prices. Check out the local summer market on Thursday mornings in San Pantaleo, close to the hotel. It's a treasure trove of beautiful pieces.
Positano
Il San Pietro di Positano
I stayed with Michael at this hotel about 20 years ago and it is truly one of the most magical places to visit on the Amalfi coast! This time, we headed over there to meet some friends for the day and had lunch there too. I recommend jumping off the cliff and swimming in the ocean--an exhilarating experience! This special hotel is a celeb favorite and known for its private beach and luxurious rooms and suites. It’s a family-owned property that offers impeccable service and has the most breathtaking views as it is set within the cliffs of Positano. All rooms have a private terrace overlooking the sea and have fresh, light, and classic Mediterranean furnishings and bedding. Bee Chic, one of the hotel's three restaurants, offers light bites on the terrace, perfect for a light lunch.
Le Sirenuse Positano
This 58-room resort is located in the heart of town and is known as one of the most beautiful hotels in Italy. Initially, it was a summer house owned by four brothers and was turned into a private hotel in 1951. The hotel restaurant, La Sponda, has a Michelin star and is very romantic. The spa is serene and quiet, and the sauna and marble steam bath are wonderful!
Villa TreVille
If you're searching for privacy, this estate is for you. Elizabeth Taylor was a frequent guest at this luxurious villa known for its attention to detail. There are only four villas and 16 guest suites on the property, and each has a private balcony to soak up the view and sunshine. The restaurant offers fresh and local fare, including seafood, pasta dishes, and fresh juices.
Amalfi Coast Villa pool
Other notable places to stay or visit in Amalfi include:
Hotel Santa Caterina (Amalfi)
Photo shown above wearing- L Space Swim, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses
Day trips
Ravello
This resort town set above the Tyrrhenian Sea is home to iconic cliffside gardens. Villa Cimbrone is a must-see. It is the visionary work of Lord William Beckett. In 1904, he purchased what was then a long-abandoned farmhouse. He transformed it into a magical residence using an eclectic mix of architectural styles and eras, archeological relics, and souvenirs of his extensive travels. Walk the medieval streets, check out the small local boutiques, and eat casually in the center of town. The stunning Belmond Hotel Caruso is located there with a fabulous restaurant and infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
Ravello
Belmond Hotel Caruso
Capri
Quisisana
Capri
Take a boat tour from Positano to Capri in 40 minutes for fantastic shopping and delicious meals. I previously stayed at the Quissiana, and I also recommend Hotel Scalinatella. Stop by Piazzetta, the town's center, for a drink before your dinner reservation. It's a bustling square that serves cappuccinos and cocktails. During the summer, be sure to soak up the water and sun by boat in Capri if you're visiting because the beaches are packed in the summer!
Cami and Jax Swim shown above
Dining
La Fontelina (Capri)
This destination is one of my favorites and a must-do if you are visiting the area so make a reservation in advance. It's one of the chicest beach club restaurants located in Capri with the most gorgeous sea views. La Fontelina serves fresh, delicious seafood under a thatched-roof pergola. Their signature blue and white umbrellas make it the perfect spot to grab some great Instagram photos too!
Da Adolfo Positano
The sangria and fresh fish are two must-haves at this restaurant located in Positano. Don't let the laid-back vibe fool you. Have your hotel call ahead and book a reservation.
Lo Scoglio
Visit this world-renowned restaurant for authentic Mediterranean cuisine. It's located on the sea and is one of the most famous restaurants on the Amalfi Coast. Sample the antipasti, seafood, and a variety of fresh vegetables.
Conga de Sogna
Dine at Conga de Sogna for local products, fresh produce, and traditional Mediterranean fare. The restaurant serves simple, local favorites that respect tradition. Access the restaurants by boat for an extra memorable experience.
Amalfi Coast, Fiordo di Furore beach
Shopping
It's fun to walk around and discover charming boutique finds in Positano. There are many local places to buy jewelry, linen shirts, dresses, and hand-embroidered gifts. Artigianato Rallo and Nana Positano are two great places to purchase custom-made sandals.
Positano
Hiking
The Path of The Gods, known to locals as the Sentiero Degli Dei, is the most famous hiking trail in all of the Amalfi Coast. Stunning views along the entire route make this hike a must for anyone in the area. We did not take this hike on this trip but did it in the past, and it’s quite incredible.
Exploring the Amalfi Coast and Sardinia was a fantastic experience and highly recommend putting these destinations on your bucket list! Check out some more of my travel blogs HERE.
