The Amalfi Coast is a place that seems engineered for dramatic beauty. Jagged cliffs plunge into a sparkling turquoise sea, and pastel-colored villages cling to the mountainsides in a breathtaking display. This legendary stretch of Italian coastline offers countless moments of wonder, but none are more magical than sunset. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the sky explodes in shades of orange, pink, and purple, casting a golden glow over the entire landscape. Enjoying this daily spectacle with a refreshing drink in hand is an essential part of the Amalfi Coast experience. It’s a tradition known as "aperitivo," and it’s the perfect way to transition from a day of exploration to a relaxed evening.

Positano: The Vertical Village's Best Views

Positano is the postcard image of the Amalfi Coast. Its houses seem to tumble down the cliffside to the sea. The sunset views here are legendary, as the light hits the colorful buildings and makes them glow.

Franco's Bar at Le Sirenuse

Franco's Bar is arguably the most famous and stylish place for a drink in all of Italy. It’s the alfresco bar of the iconic Le Sirenuse hotel and is a destination in itself. The bar is dedicated to the memory of one of the hotel's founders and has a sophisticated, artistic vibe. You will find stunning views over the main beach and the entire village. The decor is chic and minimalist, letting the jaw-dropping scenery be the star. The menu focuses on classic cocktails made with top-shelf spirits. There is no food served here, just high-quality nuts and olives, keeping the focus purely on the drinks and the view. Be prepared to wait in line, as they don't take reservations. The experience is worth every minute.

Il Tridente at Hotel Poseidon

Il Tridente offers a slightly more relaxed but equally stunning alternative. Located on the terrace of the Hotel Poseidon, this spot provides a panoramic view of Positano and the sea. You can watch the boats bobbing in the harbor as the sun goes down. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with lemon trees and bougainvillea adding to the charm. They have an excellent cocktail list featuring local ingredients like Amalfi lemons. You can also order delicious appetizers if you’re feeling hungry. It’s a fantastic place to soak in the classic Positano sunset without the intense crowds of Franco's.

Ravello: High Above the Coastline

Ravello is perched high in the hills above the town of Amalfi. This elevated position provides a different perspective, offering vast, sweeping views of the coastline from a bird's-eye view. The sunsets here feel grand and cinematic.

Terrazza Belvedere at Hotel Caruso

The Belmond Hotel Caruso is home to one of the most famous infinity pools in the world, and its bar, the Terrazza Belvedere, shares the same unbelievable view. You feel like you are floating in the sky, looking down at the entire coastline unfurling beneath you. The atmosphere is one of pure luxury and tranquility. The service is impeccable, and the cocktails are expertly crafted. It’s a very romantic and special-occasion spot. A visit here is a splurge, but the memory of watching the sunset from this vantage point will last a lifetime.

Villa Cimbrone's Terrace of Infinity

Not a bar in the traditional sense, but you can enjoy a drink from the hotel's bar and take it out to the famous Terrazza dell'Infinito (Terrace of Infinity). This viewpoint is lined with classical marble busts and offers what many consider to be the single most beautiful view on the Amalfi Coast. The gardens of Villa Cimbrone are open to the public for an entrance fee. Arriving an hour before sunset, grabbing a drink, and finding a spot along this balcony is an unforgettable experience. The sense of peace and epic scale is unmatched.

Amalfi: The Heart of the Coast

The town of Amalfi, which gives the coast its name, is a bustling hub with its own unique charm. Sunset drinks here often come with a view of the historic town and its busy harbor.

Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi

This hotel is built into a beautifully restored 13th-century monastery that clings to the cliffside just outside the main town. Its terraces offer a spectacular view looking back towards Amalfi and the surrounding coastline. The "Kyushu" bar serves cocktails and Japanese-inspired snacks in a serene setting. One of the highlights is the infinity pool, which seems to blend into the sea below. It’s a quiet and sophisticated place to escape the crowds of the town center and enjoy a peaceful sunset.

Praiano: The Unsung Sunset Hero

Praiano is a smaller, quieter village located between Positano and Amalfi. It might not have the fame of its neighbors, but it is arguably the best place on the entire coast to watch the sunset. This is because it is one of the few west-facing villages, meaning you can watch the sun actually sink into the sea.

Café Mirante

This tiny, rustic bar is carved into the cliff path that leads down to Gavitella Beach. It’s a hidden gem with a bohemian, laid-back vibe. You sit on simple stools or cushions, surrounded by plants and fairy lights, with an unobstructed view of the sunset over the water. The owner makes fantastic, fresh cocktails using local fruits. It feels authentic and magical. It’s the perfect spot for a casual and truly memorable experience away from the glitz of the big hotels.