15 things to do in Atrani, the jewel of Italy’s Amalfi Coast
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Let’s explore the best things to do in Atrani, the jewel of Italy’s Amalfi Coast! Known as the smallest town in Italy, Atrani is the epitome of Amalfi Coast’s charm boasting a maze of narrow streets, historical buildings, and stunning coastal views!
We visited Atrani three times during our summer-long travels around Italy’s Campania region, including the famous Amalfi Coast. I have to be honest Atrani was at the very top of the most beautiful villages we visited along the coastline.
No wonder this quintessential Italian town has been featured in many films and TV series! Here in this blog post, you will find all the best things to do in Atrani with photos, descriptions, and Google Maps locations. Enjoy your travels!
A couple of tales about Atrani
With a population of fewer than 1,000 inhabitants and an area of 0.12 square kilometers, Atrani is said to be the smallest town in Italy. Furthermore, due to its small size, it is also often included in the list of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy.
The hidden gem of the Amalfi Coast boasts more than two thousand years of history, dating back to when this coastline was favored by elite Romans, who loved building their summer villas along the Amalfi Coast.
Atrani played an especially important role during the 10th-11th centuries when this area was an independent state called the Duchy of Amalfi or the Republic of Amalfi. All the rulers (Dukes of Amalfi) were crowned right here in Atrani.
Today Atrani is known for its dramatic landscape. The tiny town is squished between steep cliffs – Monte Civita and Monte Aureo. It was a filming location for Netflix’s series Ripley as well as The Equalizer 3 featuring Denzel Washington.
One day is enough to soak in Atrani’s medieval charm and authentic atmosphere. If you’re visiting the nearby town of Amalfi, consider coming here as well—these so-called twin towns are connected by a hidden pedestrian tunnel carved into the cliff.
So, what to do in Atrani?
1. Admire sea views from Church of St. Mary Magdalene
Built on a cliffside back in the 13th century, the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Maddalena in Atrani has long been one of the most recognizable symbols of the smallest town in Italy.
The iconic Santa Maria Maddalena Church boasts a green-tiled dome as well as a striking 16th-century multi-level bell tower. We did not go inside as it was closed however the church is a beauty from the outside, too.
However, my favorite thing about this iconic church is the sea views from its terrace. From there, you can take in almost the entire Amalfi Coast coastline.
You can reach the church by taking the staircase leading to Ravello (just follow the signs). We actually parked our car uphill, so we climbed down the Atrani-Ravello stairs and got a stunning view of the church from above (see the second photo).
Location: Church of Santa Maria Maddalena
2. Step into the heart of Atrani at Piazza Umberto I
Named after one of Italy’s kings, Piazza Umberto I is the main square of Atrani and the heart of the small town. Apart from the main beach, this is the central place where all the people in the town gather to talk, eat, and relax.
The square is quite small but packed with restaurants and cafés. It also features a beautiful fountain. I noticed that locals fill up their water bottles and actually drink from this fountain so I guess it is safe to drink.
The tiny square can be accessed through a tunnel from the beach or by a staircase leading down from the Amalfi Drive road (where the bus stop is located).
The Amalfi Drive road actually goes multiple stories above the square. I highly recommend climbing up to the road because, from there, you can see the whole square from above. It is a pretty cool view (see the second photo).
Location: Piazza Umberto I
3. Try the local pastry – Pasticciotto atranese
Pasticciotto is a pastry that is traditionally associated with another region in Southern Italy – Puglia – however, Atrani’s locals convinced me that they have their own local version here, and it is considered their very own traditional pastry in Atrani.
Wherever you travel, trying local food is a must so tasting the local pastry is one of those unskippable things to do in Atrani!
Probably the best place to go to get a pasticciotto in Atrani is Caffè Vittoria right in the main square. They open early and we were more than happy to go there for breakfast coffee, juice, and pastries.
Pasticciotto atranese is a shortcrust pastry richly filled with Amalfi lemon cream and sour cherry filling. However, besides the traditional version, there are other variations available like pistachio or chocolate filling.
We could not resist and got two cappuccinos and 3 or 4 different Pasticciotto atranese pastries. If you ask me, the traditional pastry with lemon cream and sour cherries is the best of all! I liked it very much!
Location: Caffè Vittoria
4. See Atrani’s white church Chiesa di San Salvatore
The unique white Church of Saint Salvador De’ Birecto is probably the most significant historical landmark in Atrani. And one of my favorite places to visit in this little town.
This striking white church dates back to the 10th century and you can find it in Piazza Umberto I square in Atrani. It has a long white staircase leading to the entrance – a feature that historically protected the building from flooding.
There is one thing you should take a look at. The church is adorned with a massive 11th-century bronze door crafted in Constantinople (today’s Istanbul). We didn’t get to see the inside but I made sure to take a look at the door. It is beautiful!
Up to this day, the church hosts different historical ceremonial events. It played an especially crucial role during the 10th-11th centuries when the Duchy of Amalfi or the Republic of Amalfi was an independent country.
At that time, it was one of the most powerful maritime republics in the Mediterranean Sea. The Duchy of Amalfi was ruled by the Duke of Amalfi who was crowned, you guessed it, right here in the Church of Saint Salvador De Birecto!
The town still celebrates yearly events, with people dressing in medieval gowns and ‘crowning’ the new Duke at the church stairs. Then they embark on a ceremonial parade from Atrani to the nearby Amalfi town. A cool way to preserve history and tradition!
Location: Chiesa di San Salvatore de’ Birecto
5. Enjoy the iconic gray-sand Spiaggia di Atrani
Spiaggia di Atrani or Atrani Beach is one of the most beautiful places on the Amalfi Coast. It is largely thanks to its dramatic scenery with flanking cliffs and the iconic arcade lining along the beachside.
Atrani Beach was one of my favorite places in this town and, without a doubt, is one of the most popular gathering places for locals as well.
The beach itself is not a big one but definitely a beautiful one. There is a short promenade along the beach with a couple of restaurants and cafeterias where locals mingle with tourists and enjoy a meal with a beach view.
We found a small ice cream shop under one of the beachfront arches where we got a gelato and enjoyed it while sitting on one of the benches by the beach. If you want to swim or sunbathe, the beach is divided into two parts.
You can either buy a spot with a beach bed and a beach umbrella or you can go to the ‘free’ part of the beach and just lay in the sand. However, we noticed that they still asked for a 1 EUR contribution to relax on the ‘free for all’ part of the beach.
There are also a couple of other beach alternatives nearby. Amalfi town with its long sandy beach is just a short walk away as is Spiaggia di Castiglione beach to the other side of Atrani town. Arrive early to get the best spots by the beach!
Location: Spiaggia di Atrani – Spiaggia di Castiglione
6. Stop by for lunch with a sea view
Atrani is one of the most scenic seaside towns on the Amalfi Coast and I was determined to enjoy it to the fullest. One of the best ways to enjoy it is to stop by for lunch with a view!
We found a charming restaurant by the seaside called Le Arcate which had tables and chairs right by the water with a scenic view of the whole Atrani’s beachside. Especially the striking Church of Saint Mary Magdalene.
I ordered a limoncello spritz drink plus both me and my husband got pasta dishes. Some kind of fish pasta for me, and lemon pasta for my husband. It was one of the best lunches we had on the Amalfi Coast. Simple but delicious!
There are some more seaside restaurants to explore in Atrani like Le Palme. But if you don’t care about the view I recommend checking out Ristorante Savò Quality Food – a gorgeous family-run restaurant featured on Denzel Washington’s The Equalizer 3.
Location: Le Arcate
7. Wander around the narrow alleys and tunnels
Among all the coastal towns and villages on the Amalfi Coast, Atrani stands out with its labyrinth of narrow alleys, tunnels, and stairways connecting the countless levels of houses in the town.
It really is a maze. Usually, I don’t pay attention when researching a destination and a random travel blog suggests just ‘walking around’ or ‘getting lost’ in the streets of that place. But Atrani is really different.
Whenever we could, we used detours and new pathways to get somewhere we wanted to get to. Luckily, there are plenty of signs pointing in the right direction. Whenever you want to return down to the main street, follow the green ‘Escape Route’ signs!
Atrani is among the best-preserved towns along the Amalfi Coast. The narrow alleys and maze-like stairways date back many centuries ago and make you feel like you are stepping back in time. Remember to wear comfortable shoes! It’s a lot of stairs!
8. See the iconic Atrani view from above
What is the Atrani view? Well, you immediately know when you see it. It is the view of Atrani Beach, the iconic arcade lining the beach, and the dome and tower of the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena.
One of the most iconic views on the Amalfi Coast!
But where to see the iconic view? It is quite easy. If you are a lazy traveler or hate climbing stairs then you can simply stay by the beach and walk over to the South end of the beach and there you have it! But it isn’t the best angle.
The view is much better if you climb up two levels to the Amalfi Drive road that winds through the town. There is a stairway leading up from the beach to a spot where the Amalfi Road leads into a tunnel. There is a great overlook of the town!
We actually found an even better spot to see the iconic view from above. If you cross the Amalfi Drive road you will find a stairway leading even higher uphill. After a couple of flights of stairs, there is an intersection.
One route leads in the direction of a sanctuary but we chose the other direction and stumbled upon a small balcony next to a house where we got this view (see the first photo). It is right below Via Colavolpe Don Guglielmo.
By the way, if you have a chance, I recommend visiting Atrani when it is dark. We came here at dawn for a sunrise tour and got to see the iconic view of Atrani and all the buildings illuminated with lights. Pretty magical!
Location: Atrani overlook
9. Walk Via dei Dogi up to Atrani’s very own waterfall
Via dei Dogi is the main street in Atrani. It starts at Piazza Umberto I square and ends just a 5-minute uphill walk later with a big cross marking the end of the smallest town in Italy. But there is something special at the end of the street.
At the end of Via dei Dogi, you will find a small gravel path. If you continue walking uphill by the path you will soon reach Atrani’s very own waterfall. It may be smaller and dried out during the summer months but it will definitely be impressive when there’s rain.
Atrani is a unique town in many ways. One of the reasons is that Atrani has its own river named Dragone flowing from the mountains down to the town, then under the main street until it reaches the Tyrrhenian Sea at the Atrani beach.
Centuries ago the river had a continuous flow and many water mills were constructed on it along the way. Nowadays the water flow depends on the amount of rain in the mountains.
Atrani has seen some serious floods due to it being squished in a narrow valley between mountains. We visited Atrani during the summer season so we only saw a small stream coming down the mountain. But it looked nice and scenic!
Location: Via dei Dogi
10. Explore Atrani’s hidden art gallery
There is a hidden spot along Via dei Dogi street that we found by accident. We actually walked past the hidden gallery and then looked back and noticed a small tunnel next to the main street. So we decided to turn back and see what’s inside.
The hidden tunnel, which is actually a short street Via Michele Buonocore that can’t even be found on Google Maps, hosts a small artists’ gallery with drawings, some artifacts, and artworks.
It takes less than a minute to walk through it but I recommend stopping by and checking out the works. There are some drawings done by a Dutch artist Escher who visited Atrani back in the first half of the 20th century.
The gallery is separated from the main street by a wall. If you look at it from the main street you will notice an inscription (like a quote) as well as a few arched windows with columns. At first, I thought it was a church but, clearly, I was wrong, haha.
Location: Hidden Art Gallery
11. Try the famous lemon pasta at Le Palme
The creamy pasta al limone or lemon pasta is a must-try dish when visiting this part of the Amalfi Coast. After all, the lemon, specifically the local Sfusato Amalfitano lemon, is the yellow gold of this Italian region.
We found the perfect place to try the lemon pasta in Atrani, at Le Palme seaside restaurant. Although the dish is quite simple, it is incredibly rich in flavor with lemon juice, zest, butter, and cream or cheese creating a rich and tangy sauce.
You can’t visit the Amalfi Coast without trying one of the most popular traditional dishes of this region! And, no, it is not too sour! It had the best balance between sweet, salty, and sour. Try it!
Location: Le Palme
12. Climb Atrani’s very own ‘Stairway to Heaven’
If there is one thing you absolutely must do in Atrani (if you are physically able) then it is climbing Atrani’s very own Stairway to Heaven. Well, actually the stairway leads to a sanctuary so it is not too far from it, haha.
The stairway is basically a street with steps and you can access it either from the Piazza Umberto I square (a pathway next to a pastry shop) or from the Amalfi Drive road next to the tunnel. Just follow the signs that point in the direction of the sanctuary.
Once you get through the initial maze of stairs, tunnels, and buildings the stairs will then continue uphill until you will find yourself standing well above the rooftops of the whole town. This is one of the best places to see Atrani from above.
We climbed the stairs during the day when the heat was frying our brains and also in the morning at dawn before the sun came up. The views were truly spectacular. Atrani is easily one of the most scenic places on the Amalfi Coast.
The stairway leads up to a small white building hanging on a rock outcrop 750 steps above Atrani called Santuario Santa Maria del Bando. The little church dates back to the twelfth century and was renovated back in the 18th century.
But unless you make an appointment prior to your visit, you won’t be able to access the sanctuary. A gate will stop you a short distance from the church. Even if you don’t get to visit the sanctuary, the views along the way are absolutely worth the climb!
Location: Via Comunale S. Sebastiano
13. Tour the sanctuary and Atrani caves
As I mentioned, the Atrani’s stairway to heaven leads up to a small white 12th-century sanctuary sitting on a rock outcrop, Santuario Santa Maria del Bando. There are also two caves near the sanctuary.
When we visited, it was not possible to see these sites on your own. Instead, we had to make an appointment online (I sent him a DM on Instagram) a day before, and then we could tour these places with a local guide. The tour is free but we gave him a tip.
The guide offered us the sunrise tour and we agreed so we came back to Atrani the next day before sunrise and climbed up to the sanctuary while it was dark. At first, we toured the two caves and then finished the tour at the sanctuary.
One of the caves had the shape of a heart, which was quite interesting. There was once a monastery for monks in this cave a thousand years ago but very little remains today. We waited for the sun to rise inside this cave and then continued to the other one.
However, the little sanctuary dating back to the 12th century stands proud and tall. It houses some religious artifacts, a beautiful tiled floor, and a massive ancient metal bell. But the best thing about it is the view.
No matter where you look, the view of the little town below, the sea, and the coastal cliffs is simply spectacular. We had to wake up at 4:30 a.m. that morning to drive here and climb up before sunrise, but the view made everything worthwhile!
Location: Santuario Santa Maria del Bando
14. Hike up to the haunted Torre dello Ziro watchtower
Sitting atop Mount Aureo, Torre dello Ziro or the Ziro Tower is one of many defense watchtowers built back in the 15th century to protect the coastal villages from pirate attacks.
Today it serves as a tourist destination for history geeks, hiking enthusiasts, and anyone hunting the best views of the Amalfi Coast. I am all of those things so it made sense to visit this place!
The hike to the tower starts at Via Pisacane Street in the picturesque village of Pontone. We had a rental car so we parked at the side of the street (paid parking) and went for a hike. If you don’t have a car, you can get there by taxi or by bus.
It is also possible to hike all the way from Atrani (or also from Amalfi) to the starting point but it will add a couple of hours to your hike and will turn into a half-a-day-long adventure.
Once you get to the starting point, just follow the direction signs pointing to the tower. It was a 2-hour round trip hike for us and we even got some shade from pine trees so it was a nice fairly easy walk.
If you check on Google Maps, there is an observation deck along the way called Veliero del Belvedere. I highly suggest paying a visit to this spot too. The views of Atrani are even better from this spot, but the tower is a better spot for Amalfi town views.
Torre dello Ziro watchtower is partly renovated and you can freely access it and climb to the top of it. The legend says the tower is haunted. They say that the Duchess of Amalfi and her child were imprisoned here because of her affair and never made it out.
The ghosts were probably sleeping when we visited because we did not see or hear anything suspicious. Despite the legend, the ancient ruins are a breathtaking place overlooking the beauty of the Amalfi Coast and its crystal-clear waters.
Location: Torre dello Ziro – Veliero del Belvedere
15. Walk over to the twin town of Amalfi
Atrani and Amalfi towns both share a rich history together since medieval times and have long been referred to as the twin towns of the Amalfi Coast. While Amalfi town is a popular tourist destination, Atrani is the ultimate hidden gem of the Amalfi Coast.
But did you know that both of these towns are connected through a pedestrian tunnel carved into a cliff? A walk between both towns takes no more than 10 minutes!
If you choose to stay in Atrani (probably due to its tranquility) then definitely walk over to Amalfi town to explore the famous destination.
Some of the most popular sights in Amalfi include the majestic Duomo di Sant’Andrea Apostolo, the Piazza Duomo Square with an 18th-century fountain, the Chiostro del Paradiso cloister as well as the Museum of the Paper.
Location: Duomo di Amalfi
Happy exploring!
Atrani is the smallest coastal town along the famous Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During our summer-long travels along the Coast, we came here three times to explore this charming destination to the fullest.
It really became one of my favorite places along the coastline! Boasting a rich history, a maze of narrow medieval time streets, iconic churches, and scenic views, this destination is one of the Amalfi Coast’s best-kept secrets.
I hope you find some travel inspiration from this Atrani travel guide. I also hope you enjoy your time on the Divine Coast of Italy as much as we did! The beaches, the views, the charming villages—it’s a place you won’t forget! Happy travels!
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