Lesser-known alternatives to the Amalfi Coast

Anyone with dreams of visiting Italy has pictured the Amalfi Coast – where clusters of pastel-hued houses spill elegantly down the cliffs, the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea as their backdrop. Alongside Italy’s big-hitters such as Rome, Florence and Venice, this charming haven in the Cinque Terre is usually high on a list of ‘do not miss’ locations. This has come with unwelcome side effects, of course – those of overtourism. The Amalfi of today sees throngs of visitors, prices have soared, and the mass of foot traffic has even called the integrity of the cliffs into question. There’s no denying, the iconic view of Amalfi is still breathtaking, its history fascinating – but if you’re looking to curb the crowds on a trip to Italy, you may be left wondering: Where is similar to the Amalfi Coast? Is there somewhere quieter than the Amalfi Coast we can head to? We look into the best alternatives to the Amalfi Coast in Italy and beyond – rest assured, there are plenty of underrated spots to enjoy that scenic, coastal village life with a bit of breathing space.

Costa Viola, Calabria

If Amalfi runs along the west side of Italy’s ‘boot’, over on the other side is Calabria in the ‘toe’. One of our favourite alternatives to the Amalfi Coast, the Costa Viola (Violet Coast) gets its name from the glittering waters that fade from turquoise to a dreamy indigo as the sun sets – and indeed, this rugged coast is stunning. With pristine coves, high cliffs, and the occasional glut of colourful houses (particularly in Scilla), it bears a pleasing resemblance to the Cinque Terre, yet without the crowds.

Be sure to explore the atmospheric towns here for a taste of historic, authentic Calabrian life. Tour Scilla, a quaint fishing village with sublime seafood (as you’d expect), Amalfi-esque rainbow architecture and an impressive medieval castle; Palmi, a historic hub that hosts lively local festivals; and the traditional piazzas and peaceful churches of Bagnara Calabra.

Though the Costa Viola is undeniably beautiful, it’s strangely relaxed in terms of visitors, particularly out of the summer months. You won’t struggle to find a secluded spot on a pebbly beach, with lots of breathing room to nip back and forth to the ocean.

Monte Argentario, Tuscany

Another top alternative to the Amalfi Coast, jutting out into the Tyrrhenian Sea, almost-island Monte Argentario is attached to the mainland of southern Tuscany via three narrow strips of land, forming scenic lagoons – one of which is often flamingo-covered. Due to its island nature and fair distance from Rome and Florence, this serene peninsula feels satisfyingly remote. This might explain why it sees barely any international tourists, but is a favourite beach getaway for affluent locals.

Hidden idylls like Monte Argentario are all about languid indulgence, and now is the time to soak it all in. Flit across sandy beaches (Feniglia Beach is a favourite, but La Soda Beach is even quieter, with a tranquil cove and crystal-clear waters); walk scenic trails through the Monte Argentario Nature Reserve; and get to know the fresh street food and sumptuous restaurants in the historic harbour town, Porto Ercole. After a few days spent relishing sweet island life in Monte Argentario (remember – it’s not an island), you won’t feel you missed out at all on the Amalfi Coast.

Salento, Puglia

The contours of coastline that draw Italy’s southernmost ‘heel’ is the idyllic Salento, a region we wouldn’t want to omit from our list of alternatives to the Amalfi Coast. It is one of the loveliest parts of Italy, home to romantic, off-the-beaten-track towns, gorgeous ocean panoramas and resplendent historic architecture. Strolling past the intricate facades of Baroque buildings, seeing locals chatting in the sun-lit streets, it’s easy to fantasise about how things once were in this region.

Salento is made up of two coasts; the Adriatic on the east side, and the Ionian on the west – and each offers something different. The Adriatic side is more rugged, perfect for seeking out hidden coves, scrambling among rocky outcrops, and explorative water activities such as snorkelling or diving. For those who love beaches with character, the likes of pebbled bays with hard-to-reach rock pools, and a dramatic flavour – the east side is for you.

Conversely, the Ionian side is golden and sandy with crystalline water, creating picturesque pockets of romance. These are the parts of Salento more akin, visibly, to the Amalfi Coast, especially considering its quaint fishing towns. Gallipoli, meaning ‘beautiful city’, is an ancient Roman and Byzantine hub with divine fresh seafood; further south, Santa Maria di Leuca boasts aesthetic ocean grottos and ancient watchtowers. Slightly further inland is the resplendent Lecce, named ‘the Florence of the South’ due to its creamy Baroque structures and elegant piazzas.

Procida (Phlegraean Islands), Campania

Heading cross-land to the Bay of Naples, you’ll find the overlooked idyll of Procida. Sitting midway between Naples’ mainland and its fellow Phlegraean Islands of Vivara and Ischia, Procida is the least-developed island for tourists – though this could be short-lived since being named Italy’s Capital of Culture in 2022.

It’s a joyous discovery to see just how similar Procida is to the Amalfi Coast, with an atmospheric waterfront, jewel-toned waters adorned with sailboats, and tumbling houses of salmon pink, mint green and yellow. This sparsely-inhabited island has gone under the radar until now, likely due to its proximity to renowned island stars of the Bay, laid-back Ischia and glamorous Capri.

With its sleepy ambience and focus on the simple life, a relaxed day in Procida is one well spent. Of course, the community here is keen to preserve its traditional ways and promote a sense of slow tourism, so you won’t find big resort towns or luxe gift shops here. To visit Procida is to appreciate it as is, for its still-strong sense of locality and history.

Istria, Italy/Croatia/Slovenia

Reaching out into the Adriatic Sea, Istria is an intriguing peninsula shared by three countries – most of its heart-shape is Croatian land, with a section for Slovenia and the smallest sliver in Italy. This region has a strong Venetian history and identity, as well as luscious, fertile ground. The whole of Istria is known for its delectable gastronomy, particularly truffles, olive oil, prosciutto, wine and cheese, of which you can find plenty.

If you’re staying in Italian Istria, the main hub of Trieste is your last stop before entering Slovenia – it’s a vibrant port city with an exquisite waterfront and wonderful coffee shop culture. For a taste of the Amalfi Coast, however, you’d be better off heading south into Croatia.

The winding coastal highways through Croatian Istria afford spectacular views, the Adriatic sprawling as far as the eye can see. Clusters of red-roofed, shuttered houses give away pockets of civilisation; the romantic architecture being another Venetian export, after the Venetian Republic controlled the area for centuries.

There are plentiful stopping points along the coast to enjoy almost complete seclusion, if you want to feel truly away from the tourist trail. More prominent locations include picturesque Rovinj – from above, a scenic assemblage of red roofs surrounded by ocean, with the exquisite Church of St. Euphemia amongst them. Further south at the bottom of Istria’s ‘heart’, the waterfront city of Pula offers some welcome indulgence. As well as pebble beaches with breathtakingly clear waters to swim in, this relaxed city boasts a plethora of ancient sights, including the sixth-largest Roman amphitheatre in Italy.

Make it happen

For a wonderful coastal escape to these alternatives to the Amalfi Coast, away from the regular tourist routes, chat to our locally-based experts in Italy and Croatia – they are ready and waiting to craft an itinerary exactly as you like it.