Amalfi Coast Essentials: Private day trip from Ravello

Settled by the Ancient Greeks, the dramatic clifftop city of Sorrento became a staple holiday destination in the 19th century when Lord Byron brought it to the attention of the vacationing literary geniuses including Dickens, Goethe, and Tolstoy. This stunning city has been attracting discerning travelers ever since, who are treated to stunning views, as well as beautiful historic monuments, such as the Cathedral, the doors of which originated in Constantinople in the 11th century. Along with the scenery and monuments, Sorrento (and the Amalfi Coast) is known for its cuisine, and limoncello. If you want a taste of local culture, take a guided tour at one of the city's many limoncello distilleries!

Positano was an important port for the ancient Greeks and Phoenicians, and prospered under the Amalfi Republic during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. However, unlike other nearby towns, Positano wasn't a hot holiday destination for 19th century intellectuals. Rather, it was an essay by John Steinbeck for Harper's Bazaar that brought the poor fishing village to the attention of the world's jet setters. A maze of steep lanes and stairs wind their way past pastel colored houses, cafes, galleries, and upscale boutiques down to Positano's renowned Marina Grande beach. Nearby, is the unmissable Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its colorful majolica tile dome, lavish Rococo interior, and legendary 13th century Byzantine black Madonna icon.