Shopping the Amalfi Coast: Artisan Treasures & Fashion
The Amalfi Coast offers shopping unlike anywhere else in Italy. This isn't about luxury brands—though you'll find those in Capri. Here, it's about handcrafted ceramics passed down through generations, sandals made while you wait, lemon-infused everything, and that famous Positano style born on these shores.
Positano Fashion
The Positano Look: Flowing linen dresses, embroidered kaftans, colorful resort wear. The style emerged in the 1960s when jetsetters needed something breezy for the Mediterranean heat. Today, dozens of boutiques line the steps, each offering variations on the theme.
Handmade Sandals: Multiple shops craft custom sandals while you browse. Choose your style, leather, and embellishments. Ready in an hour, lasts for years. Safari, La Botteguccia, and L'Arte del Sandalo are local favorites.
Vietri Ceramics
Vietri sul Mare, at the coast's eastern end, is Italy's ceramic capital. The distinctive blue, yellow, and green glazed pieces adorn tables worldwide. Visit the workshops to see artisans hand-painting each piece—every item unique.
What to Buy: Plates and serving dishes, decorative tiles, lemon-motif pieces, nativity sets (a regional specialty), custom house number tiles.
Shipping: Most shops offer worldwide shipping for fragile purchases.
Local Specialties
Limoncello & Lemon Products: Made from the giant Amalfi lemons (sfusato amalfitano). Beyond limoncello: lemon soap, lemon perfume, lemon candy, lemon chocolate, limoncello baba. Look for artisanal producers over mass-market brands.
Amalfi Paper: The ancient art of paper-making continues in Amalfi. Handmade paper from medieval techniques—journals, stationery, and printed art. Visit the Paper Museum to understand the craft.
Coral Jewelry: Historic coral fishing industry means excellent coral jewelry. Look for pink and red pieces in Ravello and Positano boutiques.
Shopping by Town
- Positano: Fashion, sandals, resort wear, beach accessories
- Amalfi: Paper products, limoncello, ceramics
- Ravello: Refined boutiques, antiques, coral jewelry
- Vietri: Ceramics (the absolute best selection)
- Cetara: Colatura di alici (anchovy sauce), a culinary treasure
Shopping Tips
- Shops close 1-4pm for riposo—plan accordingly
- Cash often gets better prices at small boutiques
- Buy ceramics in Vietri for best selection and prices
- Ask about VAT refunds for non-EU visitors
- Quality varies—"made in Italy" doesn't always mean local
Base yourself at a luxury villa in Ravello for easy access to all shopping destinations.