From Milan’s buzz to Amalfi’s breeze

After Salone del Mobile 2025, let Amalfi’s mesmerising coast be your next design inspiration

01 Apr 2025

The postcard-perfect coastal town of Amalfi, tucked beneath cliffs on Italy’s southwest coast, is straight out of a dream. Think of dramatic coastal views, endless plates of seafood, sun-drenched piazzas, winding alleyways lined with colourful houses, and the scent of fresh lemons in the air. Oh, and let’s not forget the shimmering turquoise sea stretching out before you, with endless things to do, from exploring historic sites to soaking in the coastal charm.

After the buzz and brilliance of Salone del Mobile 2025 in Milan, unwind in Amalfi — a sun-soaked coastal escape where history, nature, and la dolce vita await.

Photograph courtesy Pexels, Oleksandra Zelena

The Amalfi Coast is one long scenic stretch where every turn surprises you with a new gem to explore. Here’s what you can’t miss.

Drive the road of a Thousand Bends: Brace yourself for an unforgettable ride along the Amalfi Drive (SS163), a winding coastal road that clings to dramatic cliffs between Sorrento and Salerno. Stop at Ravello, Positano, or Praiano for stunning viewpoints and don’t forget to pull over at Fiordo di Furore, a striking fjord-like inlet tucked between towering rock walls.

Positano: Stroll through Positano’s enchanting streets where pastel-hued houses cascade down the cliffs and boutique shops tempt with handmade ceramics, breezy linens and artisan leather sandals — perfect souvenirs. Sink into the pebbled shores of Spiaggia Grande or Fornillo Beach where crystal-clear waters and breathtaking coastal views make every moment pure magic.

Capri: Once a favourite retreat for Roman emperors, this glamorous island off the Amalfi Coast is a perfect blend of history, natural beauty and laid-back luxury. For an unforgettable experience, take a boat tour to the Blue Grotto where sunlight transforms the water into a glowing sapphire spectacle. Whether you’re lounging on a secluded beach, exploring hidden coves or flipping through a book under the Mediterranean sun, Capri is pure Italian magic.

Path of the Gods: This legendary hiking trail lives up to its divine name offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast. Stretching from Bomerano to Nocelle the trail winds through rugged cliffs, fragrant wildflowers and ancient stone terraces. According to legend this is the very path the gods once walked to help rescue Ulysses from the sirens’ enchanting song.

Limoncello: When life gives you lemons, the Amalfitani turn them into liquid gold — their signature lemon liqueur. Made from the region’s famous Sfusato Amalfitano lemons known for their intense aroma and sweetness, limoncello is a zesty, refreshing digestif that perfectly captures the essence of the Amalfi Coast.

Where to stay:

Palazzo Avino, Ravello

Palazzo Avino, often referred to as the “Pink Palace of Ravello,” is a distinguished five-star deluxe hotel situated on Italy’s renowned Amalfi Coast. Originally a 12th-century private villa for an Italian noble family it was transformed into a hotel in 1997. Perched 350 meters above the Mediterranean in the medieval hilltop village of Ravello, the hotel offers breathtaking views of the coastline and some of the region’s most picturesque fishing villages.

2. Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel

Perched high above the Tyrrhenian Sea, this former Capuchin convent retains its rich heritage with original cloisters, medieval frescoes dating back to 1223 and a beautifully preserved Baroque church featuring a marble altar and intricate Majolica flooring. Guests can wander through the peaceful courtyards, relax in rooms that once housed monks and dine on authentic Italian cuisine while soaking in panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast.

Photograph courtesy Pexels, Issam Galili

Photograph courtesy Pexels, Frans van Heerden

3. Le Sirenuse

Once the Sersale family’s summer home, Le Sirenuse exudes historic charm and villa-like intimacy with handpicked antiques, curated art and warm hospitality. Its Michelin-starred restaurant, La Sponda offers a romantic candlelit dining experience where guests can savour refined Mediterranean cuisine while overlooking Positano’s twinkling coastline.

4. Villa TreVille

The estate boasts four distinctive villas — Villa Bianca, Villa Rosa, Villa Azzurra and Villa Tre Pini. Suites are named after legendary guests such as Maria Callas, Leonard Bernstein and Rudolf Nureyev honouring their artistic contributions and deep connection to the property. With breathtaking views, timeless décor and a storied past, each villa immerses guests in the estate’s rich cultural and artistic legacy.

5. Il San Pietro Positano

Perched on Positano’s dramatic cliffs, Il San Pietro offers breathtaking sea views, private terraces and refined elegance. Guests can unwind at the private beach, sail on the hotel’s exclusive yacht or dine at the Michelin-starred Zass all while soaking in the serene beauty of the Amalfi Coast.

Photograph courtesy Pexels, Sarah O'Shea

6. Belmond Caruso Ravello

Set in a restored 11th-century palace high above the Amalfi Coast, Belmond Hotel Caruso and its infinity pool float above the sea while frescoed suites and lush gardens evoke old-world elegance. Guests can savour gourmet cuisine, embark on private boat tours or simply soak in the breathtaking coastal views.

7. Santa Caterina

Perched on Amalfi’s cliffs, Hotel Santa Caterina is a historic family-run retreat offering breathtaking sea views, lush Mediterranean gardens and timeless Italian hospitality. With elegant sea-facing suites, a private beach club and gourmet dining on the water’s edge, this five-star haven perfectly captures the charm and romance of the Amalfi Coast.

How to get there:

Amalfi, Italy (847 kms from Milan)

Approximately 15 to 60 trains

Getting there:

Milan Centrale → Salerno (Approximately 6hr 17 mins)/ Pompei, Piazza Falcone e Borsellino/ Sorrento Corso Italia/ Vietri sul Mare-Amalfi