The history of Minori, Italy goes back to the Roman era, and evidence of its past still remains in the form of ancient ruins. During the medieval era, Minori became an important hub of trade and commerce, and its position on the coast made it a target for pirate attacks. The area was fortified with walls and watchtowers, many of which remain to this day.

Often overshadowed by its famous neighbours like Positano and Amalfi, Minori is the perfect hideaway for those seeking an authentic Italian experience. With its picturesque streets, quaint cafés, and breath-taking scenery, Minori has something for everyone.

Read on as I take a closer look at this hidden gem and explore the five reasons why Minori should be on every traveller’s bucket list.

View of Minori and the village of Torre behind

1. Minori’s excellent location within the Amalfi Coast

Nestled between Amalfi and Maiori, Minori is conveniently located just 25 kilometres southeast of the city of Salerno. Due to the town’s excellent bus and ferry connections to other destinations along the coast, renting a car is not necessary.

Getting around is fairly easy with most attractions in close proximity to one another. Moreover, nearby towns like Ravello, Atrani, and Maiori are all under an hour’s walk, which makes Minori a perfect home base from which to explore the rest of the Amalfi Coast.

Amalfi Coast map

2. Minori’s amazing food scene

Food is an important part of the culture in Minori, and the town is known for its delicious pasta and seafood dishes.

Minori has in fact its very own food festival, the Gusta Minori (Taste Minori), which takes place in early September. It is dedicated to showcasing the town’s culinary traditions, with plenty of food stalls and cooking demonstrations to enjoy. The festival combines gastronomy and culture, with live performances including concerts, plays, and poetry recitals.

The local cuisine is based on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafés in town to sample gourmet specialties. Here are some of the best restaurants in Minori, Italy:

La Locanda del Pescatore

This seafood restaurant is located near Minori’s beachfront. The menu offers fresh seafood and traditional pasta dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams). The restaurant has a lovely outdoor space with sea views, making it a nice spot for a romantic dinner.

Pasticceria Sal De Riso

This pastry shop located in the centre of Minori is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. It has been around for over 30 years and has won several awards for its pastries.

Il Giardiniello

The restaurant is situated in a beautiful garden setting, which adds to its appeal, with a menu featuring a range of traditional Italian dishes. Although on the pricier side, its outdoor terrace surrounded by lush greenery is a major draw for visitors.

‘a Ricetta

This cosy restaurant situated in the heart of Minori serves delicious dishes with high-quality ingredients. Their frittura di pesce (seafood platter) is highly recommended.

La Botte

This rustic restaurant is known for its authentic Italian dishes and selection of local and regional wines. Their homemade pasta and grilled seafood are particularly recommended.

In addition to delicious local cuisine, Minori also has excellent wines. The area is home to several vineyards that produce a variety of wines, and visitors can take a tour of these wineries to learn about the wine-making process.

Grilled tuna with pistachios and eggplant cream from La Botte

3. Accommodation is cheaper in Minori

Accommodation prices can vary greatly depending on the season, demand, and type of accommodation. However, in general, Minori tends to be one of the more affordable options on the Amalfi Coast.

Compared to the more popular and upscale towns of Positano and Amalfi, Minori is a budget-friendly alternative, with reasonably priced hotels, guesthouses, and apartments.

That being said, it is important to keep in mind that the Amalfi Coast is a high-end destination. Even budget-friendly options may be more expensive than in other parts of Italy.

4. Minori’s authentic feel

Minori is a small fishing village that has managed to preserve its local traditions and charm. It is generally considered more laid-back than other parts of the Amalfi Coast. You can expect a quieter atmosphere in Minori, with fewer crowds and less traffic.

Regardless, Minori is a popular destination for visitors, especially during the high season, so it can get crammed at times. Still, it is largely seen as a more low-key destination, appealing to travellers looking for a more authentic experience.

Winding streets of Minori

5. Fun things to do in Minori

Whether you’re looking to relax, explore or indulge, this town will deliver. Here are some of the best things to do in Minori:

Visit the Roman Villa

Minori is home to a well-preserved Roman villa, which dates back to the 1st century AD. The villa is known for its beautiful frescoes and mosaics, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history of the area. This sprawling complex is home to a number of well-preserved mosaics and frescoes, as well as several thermal baths and a private harbor. Visitors can take a guided tour of the villa to learn more about its history and architecture.

Explore the town’s historic centre

Minori’s historic centre is a charming and vibrant area filled with narrow streets, historic buildings, and local shops and restaurants. The heart of the town is Piazza Cantilena, a lively square where locals and visitors gather to enjoy a coffee or an aperitivo. Here, you’ll find the Cathedral of Santa Trofimena, a primary example of religious neoclassical architecture of the 18th century.

Cathedral of Santa Trofimena

Enjoy the beach

Minori has a small but lovely beach known as Spiaggia Grande, a long stretch of sand and pebbles that is popular with both locals and tourists. There are plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent, and there are several beachside restaurants and cafés where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink. The water at Spiaggia Grande is clear and calm, making it an ideal spot for swimming.

Hike the Path of the Lemons

This popular hiking trail winds through the hills above Minori, Italy, offering breath taking views of the Amalfi Coast and the Tyrrhenian Sea. The trail gets its name from the many lemon groves that line the path. The moderate hike takes around 45 minutes to an hour to complete, depending on your pace. Stop for a bite at Azienda Agricola Cuonc Cuonc along the way, a family-run farm offering food made from organically grown produce.

View of Maiori from the Path of the Lemons

Rent a pedal boat

Renting a pedal boat is a fun option to explore the area. If you pedal towards Amalfi for about 20 minutes, you’ll arrive at a small bay next to Hotel Marmorata, where you’ll find a small waterfall to enjoy a cold shower. The rental cost is about 10 EUR per hour.

Hike to Ravello

The hike from Minori to Ravello is a bit challenging but rewarding, offering stunning views along the way. The 2.5-kilometre-hike can be completed in about an hour depending on the pace. Ravello is known for its beautiful gardens and villas, so make sure to explore the town once you reach it.

Minori at the base of the hill and Ravello behind at 365 metres (1,200 feet) above sea level

In conclusion, Minori is a beautiful and historic town that offers something for everyone. From its stunning beaches and natural beauty to its rich history and delicious cuisine, Minori is a must-see destination for anyone traveling to the Amalfi Coast.