Hike along the Sentiero degli Dei footpath
You must have a good head for heights to tackle the celebrated Footpath of the Gods. Running along a ridge atop the Lattari mountains far above the coast, the five- to six-hour route runs between Positano and the village of Bomerano, although you can cut it short by finishing at Nocelle. There are many steps to be negotiated (1,700 on the final descent) along with sheer drops on either side in certain places, but the reward is unparalleled views. Wear proper walking boots, take a hat and plenty of water, and avoid the midday sun.
Visit Ancient Herculaneum
Compared to Pompeii, the archaeological site of Herculaneum is much smaller and arguably better-preserved thanks to the particular quality of pyroclastic material that rained down on its 5,000 inhabitants in 79 AD. Most of the 2nd-century BC resort still lies buried beneath modern Ercolano, but the part that has been excavated is spectacular to behold. Wander along ancient streets marked with deep grooves worn by chariot wheels: highlights include the House of the Deer, the Central Baths, the House of Neptune and Aphrodite, and the celebrated Villa dei Papiri.
Stop by sunny Sorrento
Yes, there are many tourists, but Sorrento is a pretty, year-round resort set on steep cliffs with magnificent views over the Bay of Naples and a hydrofoil hop from Positano. After a cappuccino in Piazza Tasso, explore the shops in the old town selling limoncello, leather, and ceramics. Pop into the cathedral and the famous arched Chiostro del Paradiso before heading down to charming Marina Grande for a fishy fritto misto on the quayside. Suitably restored, you are ready to tackle the Museo della Tarsilegnea, documenting the history of the intricate knitted intarsia work for which the town is famous.
Visit an Emerald Grotto
The Amalfi Coast has its very own grotto (green rather than Capri’s blue), located just east of the Vallone di Furore. Catch the lift down the sheer cliffside from the main road to a watery cave filled with giant stalagmites and stalactites before climbing aboard a small rowing boat to admire the intense, iridescent blue-green light (at its best between 1 and 3 pm) that filters from an underwater crevice. Alternatively, hop on one of the many boats that offer grotto tours from Amalfi.
