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Luxury Villa Rentals for 2+ people
The Amalfi Coast is located on the southwestern coast of Italy, between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Gulf of Salerno. It’s famed for its beautiful Mediterranean landscaping and climate, intoxicating atmosphere, and its rich history and culture, resulting in the entire coast being named a UNESCO heritage site in 1997.
As a result, the Amalfi Coast is one of the most coveted destinations in all of Italy. In Roman times, it was home to some of the most exclusive and luxurious villas held by emperors and aristocrats. Today, Amalfi Coast villa rentals remain some of the very best across Italy thanks to their impressive histories, eye for detail, and stunning surroundings.
To that end, luxury villa rentals on the Amalfi Coast come in all shapes and sizes, and include lovely, historic options with famous owners; coastal villas with breathtaking gardens and pools; small and romantic villas that are perfect for couples; and staffed luxury villas with personal chefs that rival those at any restaurant.
The Amalfi Coast is all about living la dolce vita, and Amalfi Coast villas reflect that. For one, they’re usually located off the usual tourist track. They’re often built by the edge of the shoreline on cliffs, or on sprawling grounds in the region’s underrated, hilly interior, giving visitors a chance to experience a more hidden and unspoiled part of this famous destination.
Amalfi Coast villas also usually have their own distinct style and storied history, making them unique in a way that hotels simply can’t match. And they make for the perfect retreat from sightseeing, giving you your own personal, private refuge where you can soak up the sun and cool off by the pool by day, or appreciate the calm majesty of the Tyrrhenian Sea by moonlight.
The Amalfi Coast has long been one of the most prized destinations in Europe, and this history of decadence is reflected in Amalfi luxury villas. Roman patricians constructed their own holiday villas on this fabled coast, including Emperors like Augustus (in fact, you can visit the ruins of some of these villas in Positano and Capri). In more modern times, luxury villas on the Amalfi Coast have been owned by famous authors, celebrities, and politicians, with this tradition of lavish coastal living continuing to this day.
The first step to renting an Amalfi villa is deciding where you want to stay. Top destinations on the Amalfi Coast include Positano, the Amalfi Coast’s most popular town and home to some great shopping; Solerno, a great entry point to the Amalfi Coast and a central spot for trains and ferries; Amalfi Town, home of the Knights Templar and a jaw-dropping medieval cathedral; and of course Capri, home to some of the best preserved Roman villas – as well as legendary landscapes.
There are also plenty of smaller towns like Ravello, a favourite of artists and writers like Gore Vidal; Maiori, where you’ll find a great locals’ beach that’s not too crowded; and Nocelle, perched high atop Positano and offering a welcome respite from the crowds and heat.
Lastly, consider what your top priorities are – do you want a villa with an amazing private chef? A villa by the sea with a private pool? Both? Whether you have a clear picture of what you’re looking for yet or not, a Rental Escapes villa specialist will be able to present you with some beautiful options.
For many, the Amalfi Coast is all about appreciating the Tyrrhenian Sea and its Gulf of Salerno. The area really is home to some of Italy’s most beautiful landscapes, and the stunning contrast of the shimmering sea and the rocky shoreline only amplifies this beauty.
Many of the Amalfi Coast’s best villas can be found alongside these cliffs, and often feature breathtaking gardens and pool area to go along with their stunning views. Here are some great examples:
Villa Aurora: A historic Neapolitan-style villa dating back to the 17th Century, Villa Aurora is the result of generations of passion and care and is a true symbol of Caprisean taste. This extends to its stunning pool and garden area, which is designed to evoke the serenity of a hidden oasis. The garden itself is the result of centuries of passion and includes rare flowers, pomegranate trees, climbing roses, and so much more lush flora. Hidden within one of the gardens is a pool and jacuzzi that harmonizes perfectly with its surroundings. The interior is equally lovely, with a fine taste for art and architecture reflected in its antiques, paintings, arched ceilings, and historic furnishings. Truly one of Capri’s great historic villas.
Villa Rondinaia: As the former residence of Gore Vidal, Villa Rondinaia is one of the most famous villas on the Amalfi Coast. Its reputation is well deserved, as this majestic estate is carved beautifully into the landscape, offering some of the most picturesque views on all the coast. It includes a lush garden and pool area that is just as opulently decorated as the rich interior, featuring tons of intricate details and features that have been handcrafted by local artisans. It’s a beautiful mix of historic 19th century architecture and generations of good taste.
Stradivari: Stradivari is a great option if you want to stay in Sorrento and enjoy premium views of the Bay of Naples from a stunning infinity pool. The villa itself is up in the hills by the city, making it the perfect retreat from historic Sorrento, while still being close enough to access its narrow streets and great restaurants at any time. The outdoor dining room also features breathtaking ocean views, while the interior is tastefully decorated and has a perfect mix of opulence and practicality. This is an especially great choice for families who want a central base through which to explore the Amalfi Coast.
While so many of the most attention-grabbing and historic Amalfi Coast villas are larger affairs, many travelers are looking for smaller villas for their stay. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a small family, or just looking for something that’s a great value, there are plenty of small luxury villas on the Amalfi Coast that are worthy of your attention. A few include:
Roxy: Featuring a private pool and stunning ocean views, the 2-bedroom Roxy is truly one of the best values on the Amalfi Coast. The interior features stunning tilework, as well as two uniquely decorated bedrooms and original artwork all throughout. The location is also directly between Positano and Amalfi, making it a great base to explore both, as well as the quant village of Praiano itself.
Caprese: With panoramic views of the Bay of Naples, Caprese is a lovely 3-bedroom villa in Capri that offers a great mix of elegance and natural beauty. It features a thick, lush garden with a small pool nestled among the olive and Cyprus trees, as well as a whitewashed Mediterranean-style façade and a walkway through the garden with tons of romantic nooks and crannies. The interior, meanwhile, reflects an elegant simplicity, while its proximity to Capri’s Piazzetta means you can enjoy the best of the town with just a short drive. A great option for couples or families.
Lige: With its privileged location along a coastal road in Sorento, Lige was built atop the ruins of a former Roman patrician villa. It’s not hard to see why they chose the location – this villa offers unobstructed views of the Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the Island of Ischia, all of which are best enjoyed from the villa’s meticulously-maintained garden. The villa itself is also just a short walk away from Sorento’s shops and restaurants, making it an especially great choice if you don’t plan to rent a car.
While the Amalfi Coast is certainly home to some great restaurants, nothing compares to having your own private chef. Really, Italian cuisine is all about fresh, in-season ingredients cooked with care, and having a private chef means you’ll know that those ingredients are fresh every time, and that you can have the food prepared to your liking (or just enjoy being surprised by the chef). Some of the best luxury villas on the Amalfi Coast with chef service include:
Syrene: Easily one of the finest villas on the Amalfi Coast, if not the whole of Italy, Syrene is a stunning neo-Classical residence set out over four levels and sitting perched atop the cliffs of Sorento. This prized location affords 270-degree sea views, which is the perfect backdrop to one of the most celebrated gardens in Italy. With over 700 species of plants and flowers and 60-foot trees, the garden is a vision of magnificence all on its own and must really be seen to be believed. The interior is equally majestic, with museum-worthy artwork, furnishings, and relics, including Roman fragments, antique sculptures, marble floors and tables, and more. Add in a prized chef and you have a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Il Rubino: One of Capri’s most glamorous villas, Il Rubino is the result of a recent renovation on a famed 18th century villa. The result is a wonderful mix of modern and classic elements that maintains a strong sense of sophistication all throughout. The exterior evokes the best of coastal living, with a large pool area and terrace offering some of the very best views on the island. The interior includes wonderfully ornate details like a large crystal chandelier, which hangs atop an elegant dining room table where the meals from your private chef are served. Or if you prefer to dine outside, your chef can use the outdoor Caprese-style oven and grill to make incredible pizza or roasted meat. Whatever you choose, Il Rubino will pamper you in a way that truly lets you enjoy the best of Capri.
Bendis: Set in the town of Maiori, a more off-the-beaten-path part of the Amalfi Coast just east of Amalfi, you’ll find Bendis, a stunning villa that beautifully combines the majesty of nature and the sophistication of its historic architecture. Its most distinct feature are the clinging vines which adorn the exterior and dramatically frame the outdoor dining room, perfectly complimenting jaw-dropping ocean views. It’s here, by the well-placed infinity pool, that your chef’s meals will be served - and where you’ll make the most unforgettable memories.
Visitors to Italy require a valid passport that does not expire within the next 90 days. It needs to be presented upon entry to the Schengen Area of the European Union, however once you’re in the area, you will not need to pass through customs and immigration again.
The closest international airport to the Amalfi Coast is the Naples International Airport, though Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport certainly sees much more traffic and is just a three-hour train ride away.
Trains are operated by Trenitalia and are a fast, easy, and convenient way to get around the country. Many travelers also enjoy renting a car or hiring a private driver so they can explore the Italian countryside at their own leisure.
You can also use ferries or charter boat trips to explore the coast by sea and gain a whole new perspective on this beautiful coastline.
If you’re renting a villa with Rental Escapes, then your concierge can also arrange airport transfers, private drivers, rental cars, and boat charters for you.
Summer is peak season on the Amalfi Coast, with July and August being particularly popular. This is when Italians take their vacations, so the cities clear out and the coast fills up. Everything is open at full capacity, and there’s the highest density of festivals and activities. If you’re looking to go to the Amalfi Coast at the height of all the action, this is the time.
That said, many travelers prefer to visit the Amalfi Coast during shoulder season. This period, from April-May and September-October, sees temperatures dip below the sometimes-sweltering heat of the summer and sees much less crowds. It’s also a great time to get a good deal on an Amalfi Coast villa rental.
Low season is from November-March, which is when many shops and restaurants will be closed. If you want the coast to yourself, this is a good time to visit, though it will be difficult to fully appreciate its beauty and vitality.
Drive down the coast: Whether you rent a car (recommended only for experienced drivers during peak season), hire a driver, or ride a bus, the drive down Amalfi Coast Drive is one of the most scenic in the world. You’ll pass by small towns that seem like they’ve been sculpted into the cliffs, Cyprus trees and lemon groves decorating the sides of the roads, and, of course, a glimmering sea reflecting this majestic scene back at you.
Sail the Gulf of Naples: Sailing is an institution on the Amalfi Coast, so you’ll find no shortage of operators happy to take travellers on an unforgettable trip into these storied waters. Whether you just want a leisurely cruise to observe the charming coastal villages from another perspective, dream of visiting the islets of Li Galli made famous by Homer’s Odyssey, or wish to snorkel amid ruins of Roman villas, your concierge can find a tour that is right for you.
Visit Amalfi and Positano: While the Amalfi Coast has no shortage of small towns that you should absolutely stop and visit, its two largest have a charm all their own. Positano is especially great for shopping and dining. Here you’ll find fine linens and ceramics that have been produced in the region for centuries. Amalfi, meanwhile, is the capital of the region, with its Norman-Arab cathedral being a truly distinct landmark that shows off yet another beautiful side of Italian architecture.
As you might expect, the food of the Amalfi Coast is heavily influenced by the Neapolitan style of cuisine. That means it’s both delicious and what many people think of when they talk about Italian food (especially American-style Italian food). Think lots of tomato-heavy dishes, pasta, Neapolitan pizza, cheeses (including ricotta and mozzarella di buffala), and seafood.
On that note, seafood is especially popular on the coast, with fresh anchovies, mussels, shrimps, clams, and calamari appearing in many pasta dishes, as well as served up on their own (often fried).
For dessert, enjoy the famous Delizia al Limone, often served with limoncello made in Sorrento.
Your Rental Escapes concierge can also arrange private chef service and villa pre-stocking for any of our Amalfi Coast villas.
The Amalfi Coast benefits from a Mediterranean climate. The average temperature varies from 7°C to 31°C (45°F - 88°F).
Summers are hot, sometimes humid, mostly dry, and see average highs of 28°C (82°F), with August being the hottest month at 31°C (88°F). Of course, this makes for amazing pool and beach weather, and the water is above 24°C (75°F) from the end of June to the end of September.
Temperatures in spring and autumn just a drop a bit, with average highs closer to 23°C (73°F) in late spring and early fall, and 18°C (64°F) in late fall and early spring. Winter, meanwhile, sees average highs of 13°C (55°F). In general, September-April is the wetter season, with about a 22% chance of having a wet day.
If you’re hoping to visit this lovely region of Italy for your next holiday, then Rental Escapes can elevate your Amalfi Coast villa rental into a true luxury experience.
We offer the finest luxury Amalfi Coast villas, including cliffside estates, historic manors, romantic villas, and more. Your villa specialist can find the best villa option based on your needs, and your concierge personalizes the trip with transfers, car rentals, chef service, reservations, and so much more.
Contact us today to start planning your next dream holiday!