Italy is one of the most enchanting countries in the world. The colloseums of Rome, the canals and carnivals of Venice and the renaissance art of Florence are amoung its most popular destinations.
Then there's the Amalfi Coast, a 50km stretch of coastline littered with some magnificent towns. Positano, Amalfi, Cetara and Ravello are its most popular towns.
Positano, which is pictured in the main photo, is perhaps its most breathtaking town. Perched on a steep mountain, this town is characterised by the colourful (and expensive) houses, restaurants and other buildings that flow down its side.
Lonely Planet describes this setting perfectly: "Here, mountains plunge into the sea in a nail-biting vertical scene of precipitous crags, cliff-clinging abodes and verdant woodland." Positano also has a deep fashion background and is known as the first Italian town to import bikinis from France.
There are plenty of stunning villas, hotels and restaurants which have all maintained that special Italian charm. The Mediterranean climate throughout the coast also means that the weather is warm throughout the year.
There are few better coastal cities anywhere in the world than this.