Visiting Praiano
Praiano Travel guide
The Amalfi Coast, Capri & Naples: Easy Planning, Local Writers, Itineraries, Helpful Maps (Full-color Travel Guide)
Review of Praiano.
Praiano is a small town located on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. It is situated between the popular tourist destinations of Positano and Amalfi. Praiano is known for its picturesque beauty, stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, and charming atmosphere.
One of the main attractions in Praiano is its coastline, which features beautiful beaches and hidden coves. Marina di Praia is a popular beach in the town, offering crystal-clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports in this scenic setting.
Another notable attraction in Praiano is the Church of San Gennaro, which dates back to the 16th century. This church features beautiful architecture and stunning frescoes. It is worth a visit for those interested in history and culture.
Praiano is also a great base for exploring the wider Amalfi Coast region. From here, you can easily visit other towns such as Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, which are known for their colorful buildings, narrow streets, and vibrant atmosphere. The Amalfi Coast is also famous for hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding cliffs.
In terms of dining, Praiano offers a variety of restaurants and bars where you can enjoy traditional Italian cuisine and fresh seafood dishes. The town has a relaxed and authentic vibe, making it a great destination for those seeking a more peaceful and less crowded alternative to some of the busier towns on the Amalfi Coast.
Overall, Praiano is a hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast, offering natural beauty, historical sites, and a tranquil atmosphere. It is a wonderful destination for those looking to experience the charm and beauty of southern Italy.
Here are some of his reviews of the best attractions that you can book:
Praiano: where to stay?
Here are some accommodations you can consider when visiting Praiano and its surroundings:
Here are some accommodations you can consider when visiting Praiano and its surroundings:
1. Hotel Tramonto d'Oro: Located in Praiano, this hotel offers stunning views of the sea and the Amalfi Coast. It features comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.
2. Hotel Onda Verde: Situated on a cliff overlooking the sea, Hotel Onda Verde provides a tranquil and picturesque setting. It offers well-appointed rooms, a private beach, a restaurant, and a bar. The hotel also organizes boat trips along the coast.
3. Casa Angelina: This luxurious boutique hotel is perched on a cliff in Praiano and offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean. It boasts stylish rooms, a spa, a rooftop pool, a private beach club, and a renowned restaurant.
4. Hotel Villa Franca: Located in Positano, a neighboring town to Praiano, Hotel Villa Franca offers elegant rooms with sea views. The hotel features a swimming pool, a spa, a rooftop bar, and a restaurant serving traditional Italian dishes.
5. Alfonso a Mare: Situated in Conca dei Marini, a short distance from Praiano, Alfonso a Mare is a charming bed and breakfast with comfortable rooms and a terrace overlooking the sea. It provides a peaceful atmosphere and serves a delicious breakfast.
6. Hotel Santa Caterina: Nestled in Amalfi, another nearby town, Hotel Santa Caterina is a luxurious property with beautifully decorated rooms, a private beach, a spa, and an infinity pool. The hotel offers breathtaking views of the coastline and has a renowned restaurant.
When choosing accommodations, consider your preferences, budget, and desired location. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
7-day itinerary for visiting Praiano and its surroundings, along with some local food and wine specialties to try:
Here's a suggested 7-day itinerary for visiting Praiano and its surroundings, along with some local food and wine specialties to try:
Day 1: Arrival in Praiano
- Spend the first day settling into your accommodation and exploring Praiano's charming streets and coastal views.
- Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant and try some traditional dishes such as Spaghetti alle Vongole (spaghetti with clams) or Melanzane alla Parmigiana (eggplant Parmesan).
Day 2: Amalfi and Ravello
- Take a day trip to the nearby town of Amalfi. Explore the picturesque streets, visit the beautiful Amalfi Cathedral, and stroll along the waterfront.
- In Ravello, visit the stunning Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo with their magnificent gardens and panoramic views.
- Indulge in some Limoncello, a lemon liqueur made from locally grown lemons.
Day 3: Positano
- Spend the day exploring the iconic town of Positano. Relax on the beach, wander through the colorful streets lined with boutique shops, and visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta.
- Try some fresh seafood dishes like Baccalà alla Napoletana (Neapolitan-style salted cod) or Frittura di Paranza (mixed fried seafood).
Day 4: Capri
- Take a boat trip to the enchanting island of Capri. Visit the famous Blue Grotto, explore the charming town of Anacapri, and take a chairlift up to Monte Solaro for breathtaking views.
- Try Caprese salad, a simple but delicious dish made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and olive oil.
Day 5: Hiking the Path of the Gods
- Embark on a scenic hike along the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) which offers breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast.
- For a snack during the hike, try some Taralli, small savory biscuits flavored with olive oil and various spices.
Day 6: Pompeii and Vesuvius
- Take a day trip to the ancient city of Pompeii and explore the well-preserved ruins. Afterwards, visit Mount Vesuvius, the famous volcano that erupted in 79 AD.
- Enjoy a glass of Lacryma Christi, a local wine produced on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius.
Day 7: Relaxation in Praiano
- Spend your last day in Praiano relaxing on the beach or by the pool of your accommodation.
- Enjoy a leisurely dinner and savor a delicious Neapolitan pizza, a culinary specialty of the region.
Remember to adapt this itinerary based on your preferences and the specific attractions and activities you wish to experience. Also, make sure to check the opening hours and availability of attractions in advance.
Here are some additional details about visiting Praiano and its surroundings, along with the local food and wine specialties to try:
Praiano and Surroundings:
- Praiano is a charming coastal village situated on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. It offers a more relaxed and tranquil atmosphere compared to its neighboring towns, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.
- The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, with its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque towns clinging to the rugged coastline.
- Besides the suggested day trips to Amalfi, Ravello, Positano, and Capri, you can also consider visiting other nearby attractions such as the Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo), a unique sea cave with mesmerizing green hues.
Local Food Specialties:
- The Amalfi Coast region boasts a rich culinary tradition, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple yet flavorful dishes.
- Seafood is a highlight of the local cuisine, and you'll find an abundance of delicious seafood dishes on menus throughout the area.
- Some notable local specialties to try include Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare (fresh pasta with mixed seafood), Alici Marinate (marinated anchovies), and Zuppa di Pesce (fish soup).
- The region is also famous for its lemons, and you must try the renowned Limoncello liqueur, as well as other lemon-infused treats like lemon tarts and lemon sorbet.
Local Wine Specialties:
- The Campania region, where the Amalfi Coast is located, is known for its excellent wines.
- White wines from the region, such as Falanghina and Greco di Tufo, are popular choices to accompany seafood dishes.
- Red wine enthusiasts can explore the local Aglianico wines, which are robust and full-bodied.
- Lacryma Christi, meaning "Tears of Christ," is a unique and flavorful wine produced on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius. It comes in both red and white varieties and is worth trying.
Additionally, while in Praiano, take the time to enjoy the stunning coastal views, relax on the beaches, and engage with the warm and welcoming locals. Don't forget to explore the narrow alleys and discover hidden gems, such as local artisan shops and traditional ceramic workshops.
The Amalfi Coast offers a memorable experience with its combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights. Enjoy your visit!
How to get to Praiano, and view the map in real-time.
To get to Praiano, you can follow these general directions:
1. By Air: The nearest international airport to Praiano is Naples International Airport (NAP). From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to Praiano. The distance between the airport and Praiano is approximately 64 kilometers (40 miles), and the journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
2. By Train: If you prefer to travel by train, you can take a train from Naples Central Station to Sorrento. From Sorrento, you can take a SITA bus or a taxi to Praiano. The train journey from Naples to Sorrento takes about 1 hour, and the bus journey from Sorrento to Praiano takes around 30 to 40 minutes.
3. By Car: If you're driving, you can rent a car at Naples Airport or in Naples city center. Praiano is located on the Amalfi Coast, and the drive from Naples to Praiano takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Keep in mind that driving along the Amalfi Coast can be challenging due to narrow and winding roads.
To view the map in real-time, you can use online mapping services such as Google Maps or Apple Maps. These platforms provide real-time navigation and directions. Simply enter your starting point, such as Naples International Airport or any other location, and set Praiano as your destination. The map will show you the route, estimated travel time, and live traffic updates if available.