Scala is a small village high up on the Amalfi Coast.
With its cobbled streets, colorful houses and breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, it’s the ideal place to relax and enjoy your vacation.
Scala is the perfect choice for those looking to combine relaxation, adventure and cultural discovery in a single trip.
History and culture
Scala’s origins are shrouded in legend.
Roman families are said to have left Rome in the 4th century, heading for Constantinople to populate the new Rome founded by Constantine. A powerful storm in the Ionian Sea forced them to land in Ragusa, Dalmatia, which they left after a time to return to Italy. They then founded a village in Lucania, which they called Melfi. They left this place to find safety among the Lattari mountains, where they built Scala, the oldest inhabited center on the coast, with the natives living there. From Scala, they moved down the valley to found Amalfi and Atrani.
Activities
Scala offers many activities for tourists, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation.
The town is surrounded by mountains offering numerous opportunities for trekking and hiking. Scala’s mountain trails, such as Valle delle Ferriere or Punta d’Aglio, are ideal for those who like to explore nature and get some outdoor exercise. Other popular activities in Scala include exploring the historic center, where you can explore the cobbled streets and discover the town’s many historic buildings. You can also visit the Duomo di San Lorenzo, a magnificent religious building in the heart of the city, and the Borgo Pontone with the Torre dello Zilo, a medieval tower in the historic district.
How to get around
Scala is easily reached by car or bus from neighboring towns. You can reach Amalfi by ferry and continue by bus or cab to Scala.
The village is very small and can easily be explored on foot. It is also possible to rent bicycles or scooters to explore the town and surrounding area.
When to visit Scala
The best time to visit Scala depends on your personal preferences and planned activities.
In summer, there are more tourists and temperatures can be very high, which can make some activities more difficult. But Scala can be an ideal place to stay in summer if you’re traveling on the Amalfi Coast, as evenings are cooler than in towns directly on the coast. Every day, you can set off for a different excursion and beach (the nearest beach is 6 km away by car).
Winter can be cooler, but it’s a good time (unless it’s raining) to explore the surrounding mountains and the city’s historic sites. The spring and autumn months offer a more pleasant climate for outdoor activities. Whatever the season, Scala is always an attractive destination for those looking to explore the culture, history and nature of the Amalfi Coast.