This hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast offers winter sun from £63 in December

The charming Italian seaside town of Praiano, Italy, at sunset. While Positano gets a lot of hype, this nearby town is the real gem of the Amalfi Coast (Photo: Getty)

If you’re looking for a little winter sun, The Italian Amalfi Coast makes for the perfect escape from the bleak climes of Britain.

But let’s be honest; it’s also quite pricey.

Positano is often said to be the pearl of the Sorrentine Peninsula; Clinging precariously to the cliff face, the coastal village is made up of colorful buildings in terracotta and pink tones and offers unspoilt views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The picturesque location has long been a popular holiday resort, with Italians and local Neapolitans flocking to the coast since the 18th century. It’s also a UNESCO heritage site – and for good reason.

But that cannot be denied since the birth of social media, the Insta-worthy background has now become synonymous with influencers – more often than not wearing wide-brimmed straw hats and capris, and sipping generous Aperol spritzes.

So in vogue is the area that officials have made plans for restoration of an old military airfield located near the town of Amalfi to accommodate its many visitors – an estimated 5 million per year.

The colorful buildings on the cliff side of Positano, Italy. Positano is known for its colorful buildings on the cliffs (Photo: Emma Clarke)

While the summer rush is over, the recent opening of Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport to commercial flights will undoubtedly attract more people to the area as it removes the need to fly to Naples, which is at least an hour and a half away. by car.

This will undoubtedly increase the excitement in the small town of Positano, which is already bustling with guests. It could potentially push prices up even further.

So if you want to visit the area but avoid the crowds and selfie sticks galore, you might want to take a look at its lesser-known neighbor, Praiano.

A small rocky bay below the town of Praiano on the Amalfi Coast. Praiano has lots of cute coves to explore – and is just a stone’s throw from Positano (Photo: Emma Clarke)

Just as beautiful, the understated city offers a little peace amid the tourist rush. It’s full of locals, delicious eateries and has beautiful nooks and coves to explore.

Plus, it’s only a 20-minute drive along the coast from Positano and is conveniently located for those wanting to visit other nearby towns such as Amalfi and Maiori (where Harry Styles’ Golden music video was filmed).

It also just feels more relaxed and authentic, especially out of season; there are cute ceramic shops, small grocers selling fresh produce and sunsets to enjoy all year round.

Things to do in Praiano

Take a walk to the beach

A sign directing people to the beach in Praiano, Italy. This is your cue to book your Amalfi Coast getaway – literally (Photo: Emma Clarke)

There are few better things in life than an evening stroll along the coastline. And if you are looking for some solitude and tranquility, the small coves below the town of Praiano are ideal.

Enjoy the sunset

Thanks to the staggered height of all the front buildings, you can go just about anywhere along this part of the coast and get fantastic sunset views.

Eat, pray, love – or eat, eat, eat

It should come as no surprise that a place in Italy has really good food, but what might catch you off guard is how many options this quiet town has to offer.

While it may be less busy than the coastal areas, there’s still plenty to do – and plenty of pasta to enjoy. Enjoy your meal!

A table with snacks and wine on it, overlooking the sea in Praiano with the sunset in the background. Wherever you stay in Praiano, you’re likely to get impeccable sunset views. (Photo: Emma Clarke)

Explore the rest of the Amalfi Coast

Praiano is the perfect place for those who want to explore the entire stretch of coast. It is not far from Positano and visitors can easily reach other popular destinations such as Amalfi and Salerno.

If you don’t have a rental car or can’t get a taxi, there are also regular buses.

Where to eat and drink in Praiano

Kasai

Serving a variety of homemade pasta dishes and incredibly fresh seafood, Kasai is a culinary hotspot that should be on everyone’s list.

Not only are the food and atmosphere impeccable, guests can also enjoy panoramic views and watch the sunset on their beautiful terrace.

Miragalli

If you’re looking for a light bite, this little bar is a great pit stop. Try the local wines, opt for some cured meats and cheese, or just buy a cannoli (or three) to take away.

A plate of truffle cod from Kasai restaurant in Praiano Kasai serves many refined pasta dishes, as well as fresh seafood. (Photo: Emma Clarke)

Bar del Sole

Although this simple café may not look like much from the outside, appearances can be deceiving. And honestly, you don’t go there for the furniture or the beautiful china.

However, you will be among the locals, enjoying their morning espresso with their neighbors and staying up to date with the latest news. Even if you don’t speak Italian, you will appreciate the hustle and bustle around you.

It is also located right in the middle of the village and overlooks the crystal clear waters of the region. What’s not to like about it?

Praiano again

Although August is the warmest month (with a mercury average of 27°C), it is still balmy in winter – and a lot warmer than here in Britain.

December sees average highs of 15°C, but lows are nowhere near freezing at 12°C. January and February are about the same in temperature, but in spring it starts to get warmer.

In addition to avoiding hordes of tourists, many people prefer the more comfortable weather that Praiano enjoys outside the summer season.

How to get to Praiano?

As mentioned, the nearest airport is the recently opened Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport. Flights from London Gatwick are extremely reasonable at this time of year, with return fares available on Skyscanner in December from just £63.

This hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast offers winter sun from £63 in December