The fishing village, Cetara, Amalfi coast
Amalfi Coast’s Hidden Gem
When most travelers dream of the Amalfi Coast, names like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello spring to mind—places dazzling with cliffside villas, bustling piazzas, and endless Instagrammable views. But if you’re craving a quieter, more authentic experience, let me introduce you to Cetera, a charming fishing village that feels like a secret tucked between the iconic coastal towns.
A Peaceful, Family-Friendly Base
Cetera offers the perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility. Unlike its more famous neighbors, this small town remains delightfully under the radar, making it an ideal base for a three-night family stay. The village is family-friendly, with a sweet playground right by the harbor—a spot we happily visited every evening before dinner. Parents can relax while kids run around safely, soaking in the views of the sparkling sea. The town had a cozy beach, not crowded and everything was very inviting.
One of Cetera’s most captivating features is its fishing harbor, which feels entirely authentic and lived-in. Early in the morning, as the sun rises slowly over the coast, the harbor comes alive with the hum of daily life. A radio blasts through speakers perched on lamp posts, playing tunes for fishermen as they clean the fresh catch of the day. You can watch them at work and witness the very seafood the town is known for, bringing a real sense of connection to the local culture and traditions.
Parking is worry-free, too: there’s a large paid parking area on top of the hill, where it was completely safe to leave the car while we explored on foot.
We stayed in a cosy Airbnb called Casa Galano, right on the main square. With a balcony overlooking the main road with all the restaurants and just a stone’s throw from the harbour, it was the perfect little home base to soak up the local atmosphere.
Exploring the Surroundings
From Cetera, you can easily explore the Amalfi Coast without the crowds. Here’s a suggested three-day itinerary:
Day 1: Slow Coastal Strolls
Wake up to the calm sound of the Mediterranean waves and enjoy a relaxed breakfast on your balcony. Spend your morning wandering Cetera’s streets, taking in the traditional architecture, and snapping photos of the quaint harbor. In the afternoon, a short drive or ferry ride brings you to Amalfi for a dose of history—don’t miss the striking Duomo di Amalfi and the quaint backstreets lined with artisan shops.
Day 2: Hidden Beaches and Scenic Views
One of Cetera’s perks is easy access to quieter beaches. Head to Fiordo di Furore, a hidden cove tucked between cliffs, perfect for swimming or simply soaking up the sun. Later, drive up to Ravello to stroll through lush gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline that rival any postcard scene.
Day 3: Local Flavors and Day Trips
Dedicate your last day to exploring smaller villages and savouring local cuisine. Stop in Minori or Maiori for fresh seafood pasta, or visit Vietri sul Mare, famous for its colorful ceramics. Back in Cetera, enjoy a leisurely evening at a family-run trattoria, and then finish the day with a final visit to the harbor playground—the kids will thank you!
Why Cetera Stands Out
What makes Cetera truly special is its peaceful authenticity and family-friendly charm. You’re close enough to Amalfi’s glamour but far enough from the tourist throngs to enjoy real Italian life—friendly neighbors, local markets, and stunning, unspoiled scenery. Staying here feels like discovering a private corner of the Amalfi Coast that very few travelers get to see.
Tips for Staying in Cetera
Accommodation: Casa Galano is ideal due to location, but there are other small guesthouses and boutique B&Bs perched on the cliffs for panoramic views.
Transport: Renting a car is ideal to explore surrounding towns at your own pace. The hilltop paid parking is secure and convenient. Use the ferrys to visit nearby coastal towns. It leaves right from the harbour and the distances are short to other towns.
Family Fun: The harbor playground and the beach is a must for kids.
Timing: Sunrise or sunset in Cetera is magical; the village is bathed in soft golden light, perfect for photography or quiet reflection.
If the Amalfi Coast is a treasure chest, Cetera is the hidden jewel inside it. Three nights here will leave you with memories of calm mornings, stunning vistas, family fun, and a taste of authentic Italian coastal life.
Have a look at other beautiful towns we discovered on our Amalfi trip and discover our entire road trip route from here.
view from the boat that takes you to different towns. This is the view coming into Cetara.
Cetera is famously known for its anchovies, celebrated across Italy for their exceptional quality and rich flavor, still prepared today using traditional methods passed down through generations.