Holidays in Vietri Sul Mare

An introduction to Vietri Sul Mare

The Amalfi Coast might be one of Europe's most famous seaside spots – it's been immortalised in films like The Talented Mr Ripley and Under The Tuscan Sun – but out-of-the way Amalfi town, Vietri sul Mare is famous for a very different reason. It's gained international renown for the ceramics it's been producing since Medieval times. And this pretty pottery appears on shop shelves all over the world. Claims to fame aside though, it's all about the location. Tumbling down the hillside to the sea, the town itself is typical of the Amalfi Coast. Much like its neighbours, it's got a marina, boutiques and pastel-painted villas jostling to get the perfect view of Salerno Bay. But Italy being Italy, it's the food that takes centre stage here. Extra virgin olive oil, tomatoes and mozzarella are all part of the staple diet – and fresh-from-the-net fish and seafood feature on most menus, too. Of course when you're dining out Amalfi-style, remember to dress to impress. Meal times are generally a lot later here, so begin your evening with a traditional passeggiata before lingering into the small hours with a coffee and a night cap. Ready to explore? If you're brave enough to travel the white-knuckle Amalfi drive, towns like Positano, Amalfi and Ravello are all within easy reach. Or you can take a boat from Salerno to pay a visit to Italy's hippest hideaway, Sorrento. But while variety is the spice of life, Vietri's charming combination of secluded coves, cafe culture and marina chic might convince you to stay put.