Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

Our Favorite Amalfi Coast Hotels

Positano: Il San Pietro
• Amalfi: Santa Caterina
• Ravello: Palazzo Avino
• Praiano: Villa Angelina
• Maiori: A botanical-themed hotel
• Vietri sul Mare: Relais Paradiso
• Capri: The Caesar Augustus
• Sorrento: Excelsior Vittoria
• Naples: Britannique

Staying on the Amalfi Coast

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Nestled within Italy`s Campania region, the Amalfi Coast is a scenic coastal stretch renowned for its beauty. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 50 kilometer haven, wedged between the deep blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea and towering cliffs, presents a symphony of stunning landscapes dotted with picturesque towns, breathtaking views, and lush terraces heavy with lemons. Each coastal town, from vertically stacked Positano to the vibrant hub of Amalfi, exhibits its own unique charm and history. Along the coast`s winding roads, every turn offers a new discovery such as hidden coves, secluded beaches, terraced vineyards, and ancient mountain castles.

Travelers can explore the rich story of communities like Ravello, with its ancient villas and renowned gardens, or wander the lesser known yet still magical towns of Minori and Maiori. The local cuisine is unsurpassed, ranging from fresh seafood dishes to the ubiquitous lemon-flavored treats like limoncello, fresh lemon snow, or delizia al limone (sponge cake soaked in limoncello syrup, then filled and covered with lemon custard or lemon cream). The coast is also a ideal base for exploring the nearby archaeological sites of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Pasetum. Whether it’s lounging on a sun-bathed beach, hiking the Path of the Gods, or wandering the art-filled paths of Praiano, the Amalfi Coast pledges an unforgettable experience.

Lodging options are plentiful throughout the region, ranging from lavish estates to intimate hideaways and family-accommodating rentals. Each village is connected via ferry, bus, or both configurations, making it straightforward to stay in any coastal town while enjoying others on day trips. Check out our Amalfi Coast maps to get a sense of the area.

Amalfi Coast Towns

The most picturesque and popular destination on the Amalfi Coast, Positano is known for its colorful homes cascading down the cliffs, its postcard-perfect, maiolica-domed church, and its two wide, sandy beaches. Its narrow-steep lanes brim with exclusive boutiques, art galleries, and upscale restaurants. Positano also serves as a starting or ending point for a few coastal hikes, including the famous Path of the Gods, with expansive views over the rugged coastline.

Amalfi is a bustling coastal municipality renowned for its distinctive blend of notable architectural sights and maritime history. A prominent feature of the town is the ornate façade and monumental staircase of the cathedral dating back to medieval times (the staircase is potentially the most popular spot in town where visitors can sit and enjoy a chilled lemon granita). The winding streets are lined with an assortment of shops and cafes, while its harbor serves as a departure point for boat excursions to explore the scenic sea caves along the shoreline as well as ferries connecting to nearby towns and islands.

Positioned prominently on elevated land with panoramic views, the historic town of Ravello is renowned for its beautiful botanical gardens and medieval villas such as the thirteenth century Villa Rufolo that hosts classical music performances and exhibitions of fine art. Its cathedral dating back nine hundred years is notable for its intricate bronze entry doors, elaborate pulpit, and onsite ecclesiastical collection. Ravello`s compact center populated by cafes, boutiques and establishments serving gourmet dishes provides a tranquil environment set apart from the bustling coastal resort areas. Here visitors can relax in the peaceful, unhurried atmosphere.

Praiano and Vietri sul Mare both offer quieter, more authentic Amalfi Coast experiences compared to more popular tourist destinations. Restaurants and shops cater more to local preferences with reasonable rates. Praiano is especially tranquil, a coastal gem known for artistic trails, beautiful churches, and attractive small beaches. Vietri sul Mare has a wide, sandy beach and the only train station on the Amalfi Coast. But it is best recognized for its long-running ceramics industry; artisan workshops line the streets which are decorated with vibrant, hand-painted tiles.

Maiori (meaning “large”) and Minori (meaning “small) are neighboring coastal towns linked by the lovely hiking trail, The Path of the Lemons. Maiori possesses the longest beach along the Amalfi Coast; the promenade bordering it consists of cafes and eateries. The medieval Castle of San Nicola de Thoro-Plano towers above from the hills and delivers panoramic vistas of the shoreline. Nearby Minori is an additional quaint beachfront village. Points of interest comprise the elegantly maintained remnants of a 1st-century Roman villa brimming with intricate mosaics and a neoclassical basilica housing the relics of St. Trofimena.

Cetara is a coastal town that has changed less due to tourism and offers a better way to avoid crowds (though the main beach can still get quite crowded with Italian tourists and day visitors from Naples). Its sandy beach is bordered by structures, a watchtower, and a domed church that have stood for centuries. Historically a fishing village, Cetara is locally renowned for its anchovy and tuna products, especially its Colatura di Alici (anchovy sauce), served here over pasta or pizza.

Located just outside the Amalfi Coast, the dynamic city of Salerno combines historic architecture with a contemporary feel. Its medieval aqueduct, Arabic-Norman cathedral, and hilltop Arechi Castle (over a millennium old) are some of the primary sights to see, though the town is also a short drive from Paestum, where the ruins of an ancient Greek city and temples can be found. Salerno is well connected to most Amalfi Coast towns via public bus and ferry transportation.

Sorrento lies somewhat farther from the Amalfi Coast but offers frequent linkages by ferry and bus. Most of the town sits on top of steep, remarkable cliffs with a string of public and private shores at the lower part. Contemporary shopping and dining contrasts with historical architecture and sights.

A retreat for the well-to-do since ancient times, Capri is celebrated for its upmarket boutiques and lively nightlife as much as it is for its natural attractions, such as the iconic Blue Grotto, a sea cave where sunlight produces an electric blue effect, and the Gardens of Augustus, offering panoramic perspectives. Capri is just a short, 20-minute ferry ride from Sorrento and about a 50-minute ferry to Positano, making day trips very easy.

Naples has the closest major airport to the Amalfi Coast, and is connected to Positano by a approximately 90-minute ferry ride and to Vietri sul Mare by a roughly hour-long train journey. The capital city of the Campania region, Naples is a busy urban center renowned for its historic sites like the Royal Palace and the Castel dell’Ovo. Perhaps most importantly, Naples is the birthplace of pizza (as well as its deep-fried variation, the pizza fritta.)

Best Places to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

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Best Places to Stay for …

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  • Recommended Area to Lodge for Novice Visitors: Positano along the Amalfi Coast
    Often seen as the gem of the Amalfi Coast, Positano is our advised spot for first-time visitors. It’s a charming and idyllic town with colorful houses cascading down the cliffside. Its steep, narrow streets are lined with boutiques, cafes, and galleries, creating a delightful area for exploration. The town’s main beach, Spiaggia Grande, is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Positano is also well-connected by ferry to other coastal towns and the island of Capri, making it an excellent base for day trips.
  • Where to Stay on Amalfi Coast for Families: Maiori and Minori
    Less obviously quaint than many Amalfi Coast towns, Maiori is a good choice for families with young children. It has a long sandy beach and a decent selection of restaurants and hotels – accommodation here tends to be somewhat cheaper than elsewhere on the coast. Parents with strollers will appreciate the flat streets which make getting around pretty stress-free. A short trip away, the smaller town of Minori is another kid-friendly resort popular with Italian families.

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  • Where to Stay on Amalfi Coast for Swimming and Beaches: Positano
    Positano has two beaches of its own, and with good bus connections and a wealth of boat hire outfits, it’s well equipped for exploring the coastline by beachcombing. In town, Spiaggia Grande is the focal point of Positano’s busy summer scene, while Spiaggia Fornillo provides a calmer alternative. Nearby, Spiaggia Arienzo is a charming beach accessed by an almost 300 step flight. Many consider Positano their top coastal choice, so expect to pay premium rates if you lodge here.
  • Where to Stay on Amalfi Coast for a Honeymoon: Ravello
    Some places cannot be matched to Ravello for couples and those celebrating their honeymoon. Beautifully located on hilly terrain surrounded by lemon groves and olive trees, it radiates elegance with its historic villas and sights that will not be forgotten – to see one of the best views, lodge at the Villa Cimbrone. Crowded during the day, it comes into its own in the evening when the daily visitors have left and feelings of love fill the warm air. Lodging-wise, Ravello has several magnificent hotels, like the Caruso whose magical pool appearing to extend endlessly is perfect for intimate self portraits
  • Where to Stay on Amalfi Coast to Best Experience Local Life: Vietri Sul Mare
    The daily activities in Vietri sul Mare remain mostly undisturbed by the influx of visitors in other towns along the Amalfi Coast. Travellers to this town will discover long-held craft traditions and an environment that is less focused on tourists (despite there being many excellent hotels and simple transportation options). The community is renowned for its vibrant ceramic industry, a skill that has flourished here for centuries. Hand-decorated maiolica pottery adorns the streets filled with numerous workshops and stores for ceramics. Vietri`s local cuisine, generally centered around fresh seafood and traditional recipes, is best sampled in small, family-run trattorias where methods are passed down through generations. The town`s less commercial and more relaxed atmosphere, combined with its scenic natural beauty, from quaint roads to picturesque beaches, provides a genuine taste of coastal living in Southern Italy.

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  • Where to Stay on Amalfi Coast to Avoid Crowds: Cetara and Praiano
    Understated Praiano is home to serene beaches with clear waters and thinner crowds than its neighbors, offering a more peaceful seaside experience. The absence of a ferry service helps preserve Praiano’s local atmosphere and keep crowds at bay, while regular bus connections to nearby towns ensure accessibility. Praiano’s rich heritage is visible in its centuries-old churches, local artisan workshops, and friendly, family-run restaurants. Many of central Praiano’s main streets are linked by terraced roads, footpaths, and stairways featuring colorful ceramic artworks depicting traditional life, mythology, and more. Picturesque yet relatively obscure Cetara makes for an idyllic retreat largely untouched by the heavy foot traffic of its neighbors, despite being on the main ferry route connecting the coast’s hotspots. Travelers will find winding lanes, unspoiled beaches, and laid-back lifestyle. Visitors can soak up the unassuming beauty of its historic architecture and maritime traditions without the interference of large tourist groups. Locally, Cetara is renowned for its seafood, particularly its anchovy and tuna products. The town’s small, family-run restaurants offer an array of exquisite dishes and authentic flavors in an intimate, peaceful environment.

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  • Where to Stay on Amalfi Coast without a Car: Amalfi
    Without private transportation, Amalfi makes a very good base of operations (particularly for initial visitors). It`s centrally situated on the coast, and as the primary transportation hub, has excellent bus and boat connections, permitting daytrips with ease. There are a few attractions to explore in town if remaining there, like a beach, medieval cathedral, and historic paper museum. All primary sights are within the compact middle area and can conveniently be investigated on foot. Lodging choices that fit all budgets are also readily available in addition to cafes, bars, and restaurants. Both the Hotel Fontana and Albergo Sant’Andrea Hotel enjoy superb downtown spots near buses and ferries at the core of Amalfi.
  • Recommended airport for accessing the Amalfi Coast?
    The nearest airport is Naples International Airport though easy connections can also be made from Rome`s Leonardo da Vinci Airport. From Naples, take the mid-March to mid-October Campania Express or slower Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento, from where buses run to Positano and Amalfi. Alternatively, a faster train goes to Salerno with buses available from there. Boats operate year-round from Naples to Sorrento and in summer from Sorrento and Salerno to destinations along the coast. Another choice is a private transfer from Naples.

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  • When is the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast?
    The coastline is at its finest during the springtime (April to June) and autumn (September and early October). Springtime brings vivid colors with agreeable temperatures and blossoming flowers; autumn delivers sunny weather and thinner crowds. Generally speaking, the climate is warm enough for swimming from June through October. Try to avoid August when everywhere is jam-packed, prices escalate drastically, and heat levels are intolerable. Note that numerous hotels, eateries, and bars close for the winter, usually from November to Easter.
  • Common modes of transportation along the Amalfi Coast?
    Forget driving. The narrow coastal roadway (the SS163) is not an easy or enjoyable drive and has many blind curves and heavy summer traffic flow. Parking is also a nightmare. Better to use public transportation. Buses are a good, affordable option with regular services to all the primary towns and villages. Be warned though, motion sickness is a possibility, especially for kids. To avoid the roads, seasonal ferries run along the coast serving Amalfi, Positano, and other ports of call between mid-May and October.
  • How long is the Amalfi Coast?
    The Amalfi Coast forms the southern edge of the Sorrentine peninsula, a mountainous 30km projection of land south of Naples. The primary stretch extends 40km from Positano in the west to Vietri sul Mare in the east. Distances along the convoluted coastal road are not extensive but transit times can be prolonged. As an approximate schedule, allow just over an hour for the bus from Sorrento to Positano, and an hour and forty-five minutes from Sorrento to Amalfi. Coming from Salerno, plan for an hour and fifteen minutes to reach Amalfi.

The 12 Best Towns on the Amalfi Coast

1. Positano

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Positano is considered one of the most beautiful of the coast`s major towns. A vibrant blend of colorful homes, it gracefully slopes down a steep hillside to a small beach overlooked by a domed church – viewing it from the sea creates the finest perspectives. There are a handful of attractions in town like the Santa Maria Assunta Church, housing a Byzantine-era dark-colored Madonna icon, and the MAR (Roman Archaeological Museum) situated in the church’s crypt. However, time is usually spent lounging on the beach and browsing boutiques filled with ceramics, wispy linen fashions, and handcrafted leather sandals. Lodging is readily available, but hotels see high demand and charges are universally elevated. Remember that Positano is called the vertical village – if residing here, expect to climb lots of hills and staircases).

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2. Amalfi

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The lively town of Amalfi makes an impression with its seaside location and historic sites. These include a museum housed within a paper mill that dates back centuries as well as a striking cathedral, a remnant of Amalfi’s past as a medieval maritime republic. Activity centers around Piazza del Duomo, an attractive square lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars. Nearby, visitors can relax on the small beach or board a boat to the Grotta dello Smeraldo, a sea cave renowned for its unusual emerald light. Amalfi functions as the main transportation hub along the coastline. All bus and ferry routes traveling to and from towns on the Amalfi Coast begin and conclude here (for example, to get to Cetera from Positano, travelers will need to change vehicles at Amalfi). This town offers the best place to stay for exploring the surrounding region without use of a personal automobile.)`.

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3. Ravello

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Overlooking the coast from its elevated hillside position, Ravello is a charming village renowned for its spectacular views and elegant gardens. Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone are the two primary attractions, both featuring lush, landscaped gardens. The medieval cathedral is also popular, known for its mosaic artwork and distinctive pulpit with twisting columns and marble lions. The distinctly modern Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium hosts concerts and exhibitions. Culture enthusiasts will also enjoy Ravello’s popular summer festival which sees events staged across the village from July to September. There’s no direct access to the sea, but if you’re seeking a quiet, romantic stay, there are some magnificent high-end hotels here).

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4. Praiano

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Praiano is an extensive village located between Positano and Amalfi along the coast. Often overlooked, it is gaining popularity with travelers drawn to its authentic feel. Two medieval churches containing art, San Gennaro and San Luca Evangelista, stand as landmarks. Praiano provides easy access to beaches via a steep staircase to the desirable Spiaggia della Gavitella, and its scenic sunsets are among the finest along the shoreline. Ideal for trekking, Praiano serves as one possible starting point for the renowned Path of the Gods hiking trail. Lesser known is the NaturArte trail network showcasing art installations and sculptures by local and worldwide artists in a natural outdoor gallery.

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5. Maiori

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With its extensive sandy beachfront (the longest along the coast) and bustling shoreline promenade, Maiori is the most evident resort-like town here. It’s a beloved destination for vacationing Italians. While it lacks the perfectly picturesque charms of its better-known neighbors, it is relaxed and lively. It`s also one of the coast’s less expensive towns. Many of the structures here are “newer” post-war apartments, though there are plenty of architectural gems worth seeing, such as Palazzo Mezzacapo (known for its frescoes and gardens), the hilltop Castle of San Nicola de Thoro-Plano (a 9th-century fortress with nine towers and panoramic views), and Santa Maria a Mare Church (take the Path of the Lemons to get an up-close view the dome’s intricate, majolica construction). Continue along the hiking trail to reach the neighboring town of Minori).

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6. Minori

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Minori, a short distance west of Maiori and linked by the hiking trail known as The Path of the Lemons, offers a similar atmosphere as its neighboring town but on a smaller scale: calm, clear seas, a sandy beach with rental sunbeds and umbrellas, and a few casual, family-friendly eateries. Minori is home to one of the coast’s most significant ancient sites, the diminutive Villa Romana, the seaside abode of a Roman elite dating to the 1st century BC. You’ll also find the neoclassical Basilica of Santa Trofimena with its 19th-century bell tower and Baroque crypt, where the saint`s relics are kept).

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7. Cetara

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Cetara is a small coastal village on the quieter eastern section of the coastline. It presents itself as an appealing spot containing a small beach, characteristic dome-shaped church and imposing lookout tower. Narrow, winding streets and traditional clustered homes around the focal point Church of San Pietro Apostolo define the town. However, its foremost renown originates from its seafood, deemed the finest on the coast. Tuna represents a local specialty, and the village is home to an important tuna fishing fleet. Anchovies likewise earn revered local status. To sample Cetara`s renowned anchovy sauce, try pasta prepared with spaghetti alla colatura..

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8. Vietri sul Mare

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Cliffside Vietri sul Mare marks the easternmost point of the renowned Amalfi Coast; it’s walking distance from Salerno. Vietri is the epicenter of Campania’s extensive ceramics industry and has been crafting glazed maiolica pottery since Roman antiquity. Its colorful streets and even the church are embellished with ceramic murals, and shops overflow with tiles, tableware, and pieces of art, many hand-painted in hues of sunny lemon yellow. Vietri depends less on tourism than other towns along the coast, giving it a more authentic, Italian, small-town feel than you’ll find in the other seaside towns. However, there’s still plenty to see and do here as a traveler. Ceramics classes are available at a few of the studios here, and there’s also a ceramics museum nested within the garden-ringed Villa Guariglia. Near the villa, there’s an organic winery providing tours, tastings, cooking classes, and picnics with panoramic ocean views. Of course, the wide, sandy beach is the main attraction here with tranquil waters, sunbed sets for hire, and several quality restaurants conveniently located just steps from the water’s edge. Vietri sul Mare is the sole town on the Amalfi Coast with a train station (in addition to a ferry port and bus stops), making it an excellent spot for exploring the broader region without an automobile).

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9. Sorrento

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Although Sorrento itself is not technically located along the Amalfi Coast, the town makes for a suitable base to explore the coastline and surrounding areas. It has a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere with an appealing historic center. Places of interest include the ancient Cloister of San Francesco, renowned for its Arabic-inspired arches, and the Correale di Terranova Museum, housing an extensive collection of art and artifacts from Naples. The vibrant Piazza Tasso square is a hub with activity, encircled by shops, cafes, and the historic Vallone dei Mulini gorge containing ancient mills. Sorrento provides a mix of small, scenic beaches and bathing platforms positioned along the rocky shoreline with stunning views of the bay and Mount Vesuvius. Good transportation connections allow for many day trips: buses and summer ferries run to Positano and Amalfi; hydrofoils serve Capri; the Circumvesuviana train travels to Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Naples).

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10. Salerno

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Acting as the principal eastern entry point to the Amalfi Coast, the city of Salerno lies a short distance from this renowned region. An operational port community, it may not seem like an obvious accommodation choice but can offer convenient regional connectivity alongside a working lifestyle largely untouched by tourism. Strolling the palm-lined seaside promenade introduces the marina area. Winding alleys, neighborhood family-run eateries and stores, alongside architectural landmarks including the breathtaking medieval cathedral characterize the historic center. Considered among Italy`s most stunning ecclesiastical buildings, its design reflects Roman-Norman influences. The elevated medieval quarter is also home to Europe`s oldest botanical garden and an aqueduct established over a millennium prior. Venture higher still to Arechi Fortress perched above, providing panoramic perspectives of both the cityscape and coastline beyond..

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11. Capri

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The quintessential Mediterranean paradise, the island of Capri is renowned for its ancient ruins, whitewashed villages, and rugged, rocky coastline. Most visitors arrive on a day trip – ferries depart from Naples and points along the coastline – but it offers quality accommodations for more extended stays. Activity centers around Capri Town and its stylish open-air main square, Piazza Umberto I (usually called the Piazzetta), while hilltop Anacapri provides an equally luxurious yet relaxed experience. Worth exploring are the Certosa di San Giacomo, a 14th century charterhouse converted into a museum, and adjacent Giardini di Augusto, terraced gardens providing breathtaking views of the Faraglioni rock formations. Natural highlights include the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto) sea cave, where sunlight filtering through an underwater cavity generates a blue reflection. Beaches tend to be small and pebbly, many situated in secluded coves with crystal clear water).

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12. Naples

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Naples serves as a superb base and transportation center for exploring some key highlights of the region including Pompeii, Herculaneum, Mount Vesuvius, Campi Flegrei, and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. There are also regular boats to Capri, Ischia, Sicily, and Sardinia. However, Naples is the third largest city in Italy and crammed with culture, charm, history, and many must-see landmarks, so travelers shouldn’t be overly hasty to head for the port or train station. There exist seven castles within the city. The entire Historic Center of Naples represents a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to numerous medieval and Renaissance churches filled with impressive artwork, like the Sansevero Chapel and its exquisite Veiled Christ sculpture. The National Archaeological Museum, one of the most significant archaeological museums globally, showcases a vast array of Roman artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum. For a more hands-on experience, visitors can join one of the city’s many pizza-making workshops or food tours to delve deeper into the city’s rich culinary traditions.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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