Vietri sul Mare sits at the eastern end of the Amalfi Coast, where the road from Salerno drops into the famous coastal stretch. It's the ceramics capital of the region: majolica tiles cover domes, staircases, and shop fronts throughout the town. Most visitors drive through on their way to Amalfi or Positano without stopping, which means Vietri is quieter and cheaper than its better-known neighbours. We think it's a smart choice for villa guests who want the Amalfi Coast without the premium prices, provided you accept that the town beach (Marina di Vietri) is adequate rather than special.
Why Stay in Vietri sul Mare
- Ceramics: The town's workshops and showrooms sell hand-painted majolica at factory prices. The Ceramics Museum traces the tradition from the 17th century. It's a genuine craft town, not just tourist shops.
- Gateway position: Vietri is where the Amalfi Coast begins (or ends, depending on direction). Amalfi is 20 minutes west. Salerno is 5 minutes east, with its train station, airport, and ferry port.
- Lower prices: Restaurants, accommodation, and parking are all cheaper here than further along the coast. You're on the Amalfi Coast at Salerno prices.
- Less dramatic: Vietri doesn't have the cliff-hanging drama of Positano or Ravello. It's a working town with a main road running through it. The famous coastal scenery is westward.
Things to Do in Vietri sul Mare
Browse the ceramics workshops along the main road and in the old centre. Quality ranges from cheap tourist pieces to genuine artisan work. The Museo della Ceramica in the Villa Guariglia (entry a few euros) shows the history and technique.
Walk down to Marina di Vietri for a swim. The beach is mixed pebble and sand, with a couple of restaurants. It's not the most scenic beach on the coast, but it's uncrowded.
Drive the Amalfi Coast road west to Amalfi (20 minutes) and Positano (45 minutes). The road is narrow, winding, and spectacular. Or take the SITA bus and let someone else handle the hairpins. Ravello (30 minutes) is the hilltop concert venue above Amalfi. Salerno (5 minutes east) has a medieval cathedral, a waterfront promenade, and ferries to the coast towns (much less stressful than driving).