Atrani is the smallest and the coziest Italian little village, located in the heart of the Amalfi coast. The population of the village is about 850 people. Without a doubt and Atrani is considered as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy!
Fun fact, if you make a quick research un Internet for the smallest Italian town, our champion will be Moncerisio (located in Piedmont, with a population of about 24 people) and Morterone (a little community in Lombardy, the second most populated in Italy, has 34 citizens). Atrani ranks as first in this list, with an area of only 0.1206 km² and is the smallest Italian community by area and at the same time with the highest density of the population
Where is Atrani?
Atrani is a town in the province of Salerno of southern Italy, is located in the Amalfi coast, more precisely between the most famous cities of Amalfi and Ravello. The road leading to Atrani is very narrow, curly and is considered as one of the most beautiful roads in the World.
Narrow road passes over beautiful bridge with arches that separates Atrani from the small beach. Under this bridge you can find central square withs bars, restaurants and a fountain. Streets and alleys of the town rise from here between white buildings up to the mountain, makes Atrani similar to a wonderful children’s playground. It looks particularly beautiful at Christmas time. One famous Italian poet Enzo del Pizzo dedicated hi’s beautiful poem to this beauty in Neapolitan dialect — «Atrani è ‘nu presepio» (Atrani is the new crib).
What to see in Atrani?
This seaside village has much to offer to every curious tourist all year long. Among its churches, caves and beaches, you will certainly not be bored:
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Church of San Salvatore di Birecto: The church is located right in the main square. It saw the coronation of dukes during the reign of the Amalfi Republic and today is particularly impressive with its clock and staircase.
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Church of Maria Maddalena. One of the oldest places in the town. It has a beautiful square with two lanterns which make most iconic view from the town.
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Cave and home of Masaniello: according to legend, to escape from the warriors of the viceroy of Naples, Masaniello took refuge in a cave near his mother’s house here.
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Beach of Atrani: one of the most beautiful beaches of the Amalfi coast. Less known to tourists, the beach is one of the most beaches loved by locals, who in summer are fascinated by the variety of umbrellas colours and wholesome living!
How do I get to Atrani?
Thanks to the winding and very beautiful road, Atrani is easily reached by car from Salerno and even from Sorrento. Given the very small size of the village, I recommend leaving the car in a large car park located on the main road, Luna Rossa (3 to 5 € per hour depending on the season or 20 euros for the entire day). From there you can reach the centre of Atrani in less than five minutes. Remember that during the summer months parking is quite gem to find.
Alternatively, you can take the ferry to Amalfi from Salerno, Sorrento or Positano and then go on foot. It takes about 10 minutes (or even less) to get to Atrani.
Or you can take the Sita bus towards Amalfi from the main cities of the coast and Naples. Tickets are bought before boarding and cost from 3 to 6 euros per person, depending on the route. If you are taking the bus from Salerno, it is useful to know that instead of going to Amalfi station and then walking, you can get off at the Sita stop, located directly in Atrani.
Where to eat in Atrani?
For us, personally, fine dinner in Atrani is going to Salvatore Cuomo’s Le Palme Restaurant. Traditional family restaurant located right at the entrance to the town. We have had the chance to taste almost all the dishes from its menu and still have not found what we do not like. Beautiful Antipasti, something that comes almost as soon as you sit down at the table. Amazing choice of pasta is even vegetarian. And of course, it’s worth trying the perfectly cooked Pesce all’acqua pazza (literally fish in crazy water).
Also, before or after lunch or dinner you can have a glass of wine or a cocktail on the square in a one of the bars.
Where to settle in Atrani?
Almost every house in town has a small B&B. There is also a large three-star hotel Palazzo Ferraioli. For people who plan to stay only couple of days we can offer our cozy rooms in townhouse overlooking the city’s main street. And if you didn’t mind about little hike of 250 steps up, then our modest apartment with breathtaking view is at your service.
You can book directly on our website. You can also view a list of our apartments on Airbnb. Didn’t find what you were looking for? We’d be happy to help you find it.
There are two events you can’t miss at all.
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July 22 — Patroness of St. Mary Maddalena: a procession with an orchestra is one of the most beautiful on the Amalfi coast, and at the end of the evening a beautiful fireworks show on the city beach!
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December 31 — New Year’s Eve: you will never believe it, but Atrani on New Year’s Eve is the heart of the coast’s nightlife. If at midnight the music in Amalfi Square goes out right after the toast, the party starts in Atrani! Music disco, lights and cheerful atmosphere that accompany you until dawn!
Well, now you know for sure! When someone asks you which of the smallest Italian cities in the square, you will answer — Atrani! Please don’t forget about our beautiful guide for all the tourists in Amalfi coast.
