Where to go along Italy’s Mediterranean Coast

Home to a Mediterranean climate, pristine beaches, excellent seafood and well-preserved architecture, Italy’s coast is brimming with little gems, promising you an unforgettable holiday. 

Italy’s Mediterranean Coast is adorned with beautiful destinations. Among these are the fascinating cities of Pompeii, and Naples. Both these destinations provide exceptional visits for all travellers and display a very authentic example of the people of Italy’s way of life from two very different centuries. Touring these two destinations should undoubtedly be on your list of things to do in Italy.

• Italian Riviera

  That being said, the Mediterranean Coast has more great places to offer that go beyond these two famous cities. Italy has a spectacular array of vacation destinations, including the Italian Riviera on the Mediterranean Coast. Synonymous with Italy’s Liguria region, the Italian Riviera is a crescent-shaped strip of Mediterranean coastline extending from Ventimiglia in southern France to the Gulf of Poets north of Tuscany. The Italian Riviera offers limitless experiences throughout all of the charming and accessible seaside villages. The railway makes these towns so accessible, running along the coast and providing scenic views along the way, there is no doubt that this is the best way to experience the beauty of Italy. To make the most of this stretch of Ligurian coastline, make sure you explore some of the best luxury destinations like Portofino and Santa Margherita, as well as its lesser-known smaller gems such as Rapallo, Zoagli, Chiavari, Lavagna and Sestri Levante.

• The Amalfi Coast

  Though the entire Mediterranean Coast is worth visiting, you can choose a select few destinations to visit and make the most of your visit. Fortunately, Italy, for the most part, has you covered. Part of the Mediterranean Coast has come to be known for its iconic natural beauty. Italy’s Amalfi Coast is another spectacular stretch of coastline packed with fantastic sites and attractions. If you’re a swimmer then there’s no better place for you, with idyllic blue waters and beautiful beaches, you will certainly be in your element on the Amalfi Coast. With magnificent nature trails to be explored, the hikers of the world should certainly have the Amalfi Coast on their bucket list. For a variety of beaches lined with vintage blue umbrellas go to Positano! Or for a quieter Italian experience head to Revello, a town nestled in the cliffside, offering a peaceful tranquillity in which to enjoy the town’s far-reaching views and botanic gardens. The Amalfi Coast also serves as the gateway to the Island of Capri. Speaking of islands, Italy’s Mediterranean Coast provides access to the famous islands of Sicily and Sardinia, both equally gorgeous.

• Sorrento

  Considered the gateway to the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is a coastal town perched atop cliffs that separate the town from its busy marinas. With its mild climate and exquisite views, Sorrento enjoys one of the Meditteranean’s longest tourist seasons. Within easy distance of Naples, Pompeii and Herculaneum, Sorrento is the perfect springboard for some memorable day trips. But first, enjoy everything that this town of lemons, flora and high-pedigree hotels has to offer. From the wood mosaics in the Cathedral of Saint Philip and James and the vast collection of works at the Museo Correale di Terranova, to the timeless Marina Grande which has an endless maritime air to it, Sorrento has a variety of attractions on offer. To have a break from all the architecture and the views, head to Via San Cesareo, a laneway in the heart of the old town, full of artisan shops, limoncello makers and bundles of Italian charm. Buy something to remember your trip by before treating yourself to an ice cream from David Galeteria, which allows you to customise your ice-cream with seasonal flavours. Running since 1957, I think we can trust the Gargiulo family to serve us the best sweet treats!

• Ponza Island

  Whilst people around the world flock to Rome for the summer, the people of Rome flock to here – Ponza. The largest island of the Italian Pontine Islands archipelago, Ponza is a province of Latina in the Lazio region of Italy. Only 8.9 km in length, it’s no surprise that there is only one main road on the island, but it only takes one blissful drive along this street for you to realise why the Romans have been so keen to keep this place a secret. Untouched in its unkept look, the natural beauty of Ponza has helped establish a simple way of life, where people wander the island in beachwear, munching on the local food and drink, happily oblivious to anything else. With few shops and tourist-focused centres, it’s clear why Ponza appeals to Italians (you’ll hear few other languages spoken), it oozes relaxation, with the only goal being to live la bella vita (the good life!).  Join in on the best-kept secret of Italy and discover your new favourite vacation destination.

Touring Pompeii and gaining a deeper understanding of what actually happened at this phenomenal location is just the beginning of all that Italy’s Mediterranean Coast has to offer. Whether you’re looking for some fun in the sun, fancy exploring the smaller towns of Italy or just want to develop a deeper connection with this marvellous country and its people, you’re sure to find absolutely everything you need right on the Mediterranean Coast.