9 Major Things To Do In Maiori Italy: Explore Coastline, Culture & Cuisine

Maiori town with seafront promenade, pastel buildings, and lush hills on the Amalfi Coast, Maiori.

Things to do in Maiori can range from spending time on the beach to travelling through old castles and lemon trails full of history. This beautiful town on the Amalfi Coast is definitely a quieter alternative to its neighbours, full of authentic Italian charm, rich history, and dramatic views of the sea. Whether you are strolling through colourful weekly markets, hiking through terraced groves, or tasting fresh seafood by the sea, Maiori offers you a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Due to its long sandy shoreline, Maiori has turned into a place to relax and enjoy life.

9 Amazing Things To Do In Maiori

Some of the best things to do in Maiori, the unspoiled jewel of the Amalfi Coast, include sunbathing on its very long beach, walking on lemon-scented paths, and visiting old castles.

1. Relax In Spiaggia Di Maiori Beach

Visit Maiori beach with rows of blue umbrellas and sunbeds facing the sea, one of the best things to do in Maiori.

Photo: Barbare Kacharava / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Maiori Beach is the longest and widest stretch of sand on the Amalfi Coast, extending for more than a kilometre along the seafront. It is soft and sandy, unlike the pebbly shores of Positano or Amalfi, perfect for barefoot walks and relaxing. The beach is made up of both public areas and private lidos, where sunbeds, umbrellas, and beachside bars can be hired. The promenade behind the beach is lined with gelaterias, cafes, and seafood trattorias, all within a short walk. Besides that, it is definitely one of the few coastal beaches accessible without stairs, which makes it very convenient for everyone.

Location: Strada Statale Amalfitana, 84010 Maiori SA, Italy
Highlight: Longest sandy beach on the Amalfi Coast

2. Visit The Collegiate Church Of Santa Maria A Mare

Marble statue of Saint Cristina standing beside the stone wall of Santa Maria a Mare church.

Photo: Renato Chiavarone / Wikimedia Commons

The Collegiate Church of Santa Maria a Mare is Maiori’s most important religious landmark, and it proudly stands in the old town. It was initially built in the 13th century and later reconstructed in Baroque style. The church is dedicated to the town’s patron saint, after whose statue the church was named, a statue that was definitely found at sea. The most noticeable element of the church is the brightly coloured, majolica-tiled dome that shines under the sun. The church is a gallery of precious artworks, including a richly decorated wooden ceiling and old paintings.

Location: Piazzale Mons. Milo Nicola Prevosto, 84010 Maiori SA, Italy
Highlight: Majolica-tiled dome and panoramic terrace

3. Hike The Sentiero Dei Limoni (Lemon Path)

View Maiori’s tiled church domes, hillside homes, and a sea from the lemon trail path, one of the things to do in Maiori.

Photo: Sten Porse / Wikimedia CommonsSten Porse / Wikimedia Commons

The Sentiero dei Limoni is a beautiful walking trail that links Maiori with Minori, the neighbouring town. The trail, starting near the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria a Mare, winds uphill through narrow alleys before opening up to breathtaking views of the coastline and citrus groves. On your hike through the trail, you will notice small farmhouses, steps made of stone, and shrines plastered with pieces of ceramics. The 2.5 km route usually takes between one and one and a half hours in one direction, depending on the pace. At the midpoint of your walk, you can choose to relax by having a glass of fresh lemonade or ice-cold granita.

Location: Via Vena, 84010 Maiori SA, Italy
Highlight: Stunning sea views through lemon terraces

4. Explore The Castello Di San Nicola De Thoro-Plano

Stone walls and terraced hillside of San Nicola de Thoro-Plano with hills in the distance.

Photo: Sabine Cretella / Wikimedia CommonsSabine Cretella / Wikimedia Commons

High up in the hills beyond Maiori, the Castello di San Nicola de Thoro-Plano stands as one of the most intact medieval fortresses along the Amalfi Coast. The castle was constructed in the 9th century by the locals as an attempt to protect themselves from the invading Saracens. The castle is armoured with stone walls and has a number of watchtowers. It also offers a stunning view of the sea and the green valley. A few truncheons, some old relics, and also some soldiers’ rooms that might have been used are part of the castle’s exhibit.

Location: Via Castello, 84010 Maiori SA, Italy
Highlight: Panoramic views from medieval fortress walls

5. Savour Fresh Seafood At Local Restaurants

Visit colourful seafood stalls at Ueno Park with skewered shellfish, squid, and handwritten signs, one of the things to do in Maiori.

Photo: Balon Greyjoy / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Maiori’s seaside spot makes sure the town gets a daily catch of seafood from the sea, and the restaurants do not let the opportunity go to waste. Along the seafront and in the side streets, you will find family-run trattorias that serve dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole (with clams), grilled swordfish, or octopus salad with lemon and parsley. One standout is Ristorante Torre Normanna, which is perched on a seaside cliff and has views as delicious as the food. If you are looking for something more laid-back, Il Ristorante Nettuno is the place to be; it offers beach dining with catch of the day specials that come straight from the sea.

Best Locations To Try: Casa Ferraiuolo Ristorante a Maiori Costiera Amalfitana, Maiori Food Coast, Casa Pappalardo, Mammato1890
Highlight: Signature dishes like spaghetti alle vongole

6. Take A Boat Tour Along The Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast cliffs with terraced homes and a small boat floating on the calm blue sea.

Photo: Miguel Hermoso Cuesta / Wikimedia Commons

Embarking on a boat tour from Maiori ranks amongst the most unforgettable experiences in Maiori. Small-group and private tours leave from the town’s harbour every day, following routes that cover Amalfi, Positano, the Emerald Grotto, and even Capri. Vacationers may find these trips very appealing because they provide opportunities to make swim stops in secret coves and sea caves. For a local touch, opt for a traditional gozzo boat with a native captain who can share insider stories. Sunset cruises are especially magical, bathing the coastline in golden light as the sky fades into pink.

Location: Amalfi Coast
Highlight: Hidden coves, cliffs, and sea caves

7. Attend The Festa Di Santa Maria A Mare

Ornate statue of the Virgin Mary in golden robes during a religious procession, one of the things to see in Maiori.

Photo: RDNE Stock project / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

One of the most memorable things to do in Maiori is to go there in July, specifically to attend the Festa di Santa Maria a Mare. The Festa di Santa Maria a Mare is held in memory of the town’s patron saint. This yearly festivity is a religious celebration that is combined with a joyful street parade. At the main event of the procession, the Virgin Mary’s statue is taken from the church to the sea along with the marching bands, the prayers, and the flower petals. The fireworks display at the waterfront is the highlight of the evening, illuminating the coast.

Location: Collegiate Church of Santa Maria a Mare, Maiori, Italy
Highlight: Sea procession and fireworks in July

8. Shop At The Thursday Market On Via Nuova Chiunzi

Open-air market stall in Maiori, Italy with tools, cookware, and clothing under tents.

Photo: Andrew Malone / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Maiori has always been a weekly market on the Via Nuova Chiunzi that is really vibrant and authentic. Every Thursday morning, the street transforms into a lively open-air market as a handful of stalls set up to sell fresh produce, local cheeses, handmade ceramics, clothing, and household goods. Local people buy there, so the prices are normal and the atmosphere is really Italian. You’ll find lemons that are sun-ripened, jars of limoncello, and regional treats that are perfect for souvenirs. Do you remember that the cheese vendors not only sell but also give out samples of aged pecorino or fresh mozzarella? To get the best, arrive early and bring cash.

Location: Via Nuova Provinciale Chiunzi, 74, Maiori, Italy
Highlight: Fresh lemons, cheese, and local goods

9. Discover The Maiori Municipal Antiquarium

Explore the exteriors of Vicenza’s archaeological museum with stone walls, arched windows, and columns, one of the things to do in Maiori.

Photo: Krzysztof Golik / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Located along Corso Reginna, the Maiori Municipal Antiquarium, which was once a monastery near the town centre, is like a treasure trove for history buffs. This modest museum is, however, a very rich repository of ancient Roman settlements’ artefacts that were found in and around Maiori. The collection includes pottery, coins, and tools, and is displayed at the museum. Historical panels give an overview of the role of Maiori in both Roman and medieval history (some in English). It is one of the most educational things to do in Maiori.

Location: Corso Reginna, 84010 Maiori SA, Italy
Highlight: Roman artefacts and villa ruins

Maiori offers a vast range of things to do, from peaceful beaches and beautiful hiking trails to historic churches and local festivals that will satisfy every kind of traveller. The variety of things to do in Maiori makes it a standout destination on the Amalfi Coast, perfect for those who crave a mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure. To experience it all by yourself, plan with TripXL and get ready to plan your dream itinerary to Maiori with the help of expert tips.

Cover Photo: Francescorenna / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Maiori is best for the longest beach on the Amalfi Coast, its lemon groves, and the Sentiero dei Limoni trail. It is a quieter, more laid-back alternative to nearby Positano or Amalfi.
One way to go from Naples to Maiori is by taking a train to Salerno and then a SITA bus or a ferry. The total travel time is about 2.5-3 hours, depending on the number of stops and the traffic on the coastal road.
Indeed, Maiori is ideal for families. The sandy beach, gentle sea, and relaxed atmosphere make it safe and enjoyable for children. Also, most of the restaurants are very kid-friendly, and the town is extremely walkable.
Most certainly! Maiori Beach is a perfect spot to swim; the water is clear and calm, and there are lifeguards on duty during the summer. Apart from the public areas, you can also choose the private lidos where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas.
The Lemon Path is a manageable, well-indicated short trek with steps and some uphill. A person in reasonably good shape can easily do it. The fascination of the landscape and the fragrance of lemons really make it a walk worth the effort.
Definitely! Maiori’s marina sees lots of departures of boat tours on schedule. You can hop onto guided trips along the Amalfi Coast or just rent a private boat and visit the spots close to Capri, Amalfi, or the secret sea caves.

Recommended Articles

Leave a Reply

Top Travel Destinations by Month