Suppose you have been reading the Luxury Traveler for any length. In that case, you know that we are obsessed with the southern region of Italy, which has some of the most breathtaking coastlines, picture-perfect beaches, and gorgeous coastal islands in the world.

 

Even though Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento—three of the most well-known destinations along the Amalfi Coast—are breathtaking, they can become highly crowded and overrun with tourists during the summer months. Don't waste your time with the traditional tourist attractions and activities along the Amalfi Coast; consider some of these other possibilities (and some non-touristy activities in the region). This well-known stretch of coastline along the Mediterranean features a wide variety of exciting things to see and do and mouthwatering cuisine.

Ravello

Ravello is a community that is considered to be one of the most picturesque in all of Italy. It is located along the Amalfi Coast. This village is one of the more peaceful ones along the Amalfi Coast, even though it is situated in a picture-perfect setting 365 meters above the lively beaches of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Ravello is famous for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the town of Amalfi, which can be seen from its stunning cliffside gardens.

Ravello, also called the "City of Music," has long been a favourite vacation spot for artists and other creative types who wish to get away from the commotion of the coast to find some peace and silence in which to work on their craft. It is not surprising that the tranquil village of Ravello, known for its rich cultural heritage, serves as the location of the distinguished annual Ravello Festival and the intimate chamber concerts presented by the Ravello Concert Society.

Conca dei Marini

 

It is a picturesque fishing hamlet along the Amalfi Coast; however, most tourists choose to explore the more well-known towns of Positano and Amalfi instead of Conca dei Marini (the village is nestled between the two). If you know where to look, you can find almost an infinite number of things to do in Conca Dei Marini, which was once renowned for being Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis' preferred vacation spot.

The Grotta dello Smeraldo, the Emerald Grotto, is the most popular tourist destination in the Marini area. In 1956, an underwater nativity scene made of artisan ceramics was put into the Emerald, partially filled with seawater. The scene depicts the birth of Jesus. Since then, scuba divers have made it an annual custom to visit Bethlehem at Christmas to see the Holy Family.

The Saint Rosa Convent can be found situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking Conca dei Marini. It is believed that the nuns who lived in this monastery in Naples in the 17th century were the ones who came up with the original recipe for sfogliatella. This classic dessert originated in Naples and is now known worldwide. On the 30th of August each year, the residents of Conca dei Marini get together for the yearly Festa della St Rosa to celebrate the arrival of this delicious treat.

Minori

A small fishing hamlet, Minori, can be found about 3.5 kilometres east of Amalfi (or a strenuous 45-minute trek down from Ravello). You won't be shocked to see wooden fishing boats moored on the shore among the umbrellas and sunbathers at Minori because it is known as a more laid-back fishing hamlet than the affluent coastal towns of Positano and Amalfi.

The village of Minori has been called "the town of excellent taste," which makes it particularly appealing to gourmets. A custom that dates back to the Medieval Ages and can be found on the menus of many of the town's restaurants is the preparation of scialatielli in Minori. This dish consists of thick ribbons of fresh pasta and is Minori's claim to fame. A large part of Minori's reputation as a culinary center can be attributed to the annual food festival known as GustaMinori.

The great lemons that have helped make Minori famous are harvested from terraced fields of lemon trees. A historic pathway appropriately referred to as the "path of lemons" connects each grove and Minori to the town of Maiori, which is located nearby. The trail can be finished in one hour, and its four hundred stairs offer an excellent opportunity to burn off some of the pasta you will invariably consume while traversing it.

Praiano

 

Praiano's fishing community, known for its relative tranquillity, is on the shore. Praiano is well-known for its numerous stairs, which offer breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast and Capri as they descend from the town's highest point, Piazza San Gennaro, to its lowest point, Vettica Beach. The stairs begin at the town's highest point and end at the town's lowest point. Due to the town of Praiano's disposition toward the west, it is privy to some of the most breathtaking sunsets along the Amalfi Coast.

Praiano has numerous cafés and restaurants, making it an excellent place to take a break in the late afternoon for some wine or coffee.

Conclusion

Last but not least, the Tyrrhenian Sea is a hidden gem in Italy that, much like the more well-known Amalfi Coast, is home to breathtaking coastal scenery as well as interesting historical sites. In this region, there is an abundance of both stunning natural scenery and fascinating historical sites, such as the brilliantly coloured houses of Procida and the ruins of Paestum. In addition to the delicious seafood, visitors can look forward to peaceful beaches and picturesque fishing villages. It is imperative that you visit the Tyrrhenian Sea if you are looking for a vacation spot that is both one-of-a-kind and off the beaten route.