Tucked away in between turquoise waters and towering cliffs (and located in Italy’s uber-popular beachy paradise along the Amalfi Coast), Atrani might be small — but, boy, is it mighty. It’s a breezy 3-minute drive from the bustling town of Amalfi, making it the perfect stop on your scenic road trip through Italy’s coast. The quaint little town barely covers 0.05 square miles, earning it the moniker of Italy’s smallest village. Nonetheless, its size has nothing to do with its charm.
Once overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors, the sleepy cliffside town is gearing up for a summer like never before — and a newfound popularity that’s about to hit an all-time high. The setting for Netflix’s 2024 hit “Ripley” — adapted from the 1955 best-seller “The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith — Atrani serves as the ideal backdrop for the title character’s cons and escapades. The show follows professional swindler Tom Ripley (played by Andrew Scott) as he takes on a job in Italy that turns out to be more dangerous than it first appears.
Mystery and murder aside, the show’s popularity has already seen a boom in travelers and “telephiles” flocking to the relatively undiscovered location for a firsthand taste of la dolce vita. Per Airbnb’s most recent data, properties in Ravello (less than 15 minutes outside of Atrani) saw a 93% increase in bookings since the show premiered. Meanwhile, Minori (an 8-minute drive away) had a 62% increase in bookings over the show’s opening weekend compared to 2023’s numbers.
What to do during your visit
Put simply, Atrani is all about authentic charm and tranquility. Perched atop a hill and overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the town is the perfect combination of history and nature. For starters, adventure and outdoor enthusiasts can get their fill by visiting nearby spots like the Grotta di Masaniello, where a well-known revolutionary is said to once have hidden away from enemy forces. Along with this, there’s also the Grotta dei Santi — a historic grotto dating back to the 10th century that was once part of a monastery dedicated to Saint Ciriaco and Saint Judith. Lastly, there’s always the beach! Lined with white-and-blue umbrellas and sunbeds, Atrani’s beach is typically less crowded than Amalfi’s. Keep in mind, however, that only about a fifth of the space is open for public use — aka, spiaggia libera or “open beach.” The rest is private, which means you’ll need to pay to use it.
Back in town, Atrani’s Church of Santa Maria Maddalena is a must-visit. Originally constructed in the 13th century, the church was built as a thank you gift to the Saint Mary Magdalene for protecting the townspeople and liberating them from foreign occupation. The church’s tiled dome and bell tower truly steal the show.
Where to stay and eat in Atrani
In terms of accommodation, if you’re in the mood to splurge, Atrani’s only four-star hotel is the Palazzo Ferraioli Hotel and Wellness Center. It is a top choice that combines stellar views, luxury accommodation, and all the comforts you might expect from a high-end establishment. With an on-site spa, terrace, and wine bar (among other amenities), the Palazzo Ferraioli is ready to deliver. Alternatively, platforms like Airbnb also have a selection of charming properties for rent. From two-bedroom homes tucked away on the rocks to ocean-facing apartments, you’ll be spoiled for choice — and views — when choosing your ideal getaway.
As for digging into some local bites, Atrani has plenty of popular dining spots that’ll satisfy any palate — and stray from the typical big-city tourist traps in Italy. Some of the most popular restaurants in the village include Ristorante Savò (currently the top-rated restaurant in town, per Tripadvisor) as well as other favorites like Le Palme Ristorante Pizzeria, Le Arcate, and the Michelin-recommended A’ Paranza.
