Chic Amalfi Escape: Sarah's Travel Tips & Style

There’s something about the Amalfi Coast that just hits different. That salty air, those ridiculously pretty pastel towns clinging to the cliffs, and the clink of a perfect Aperol Spritz... life just slows. Right?

Recently, Sarah Dignam (a total content queen, btw) gave us all major travel envy with her dreamy Italian getaway. And get this – she was rocking her fave Mantra pieces the whole time! We're talking breezy linen, effortless styles, and that kind of 'I just threw this on' vibe that's just perfect for a sun-soaked seaside town.

And lucky us, she's spilling all her secrets! From those hidden gems in Praiano to exactly what she packed to stay comfy and stylish, here's your ultimate guide if the Amalfi Coast is calling your name.

Where I Stayed: Praiano > Positano

Okay, so everyone's obsessed with Positano (and, yeah, it's as postcard-perfect as Instagram makes it look). But instead of diving headfirst into the crowds, I set up shop in Praiano – a super chill little town that's, like, 10 minutes away.

Same amazing views. Fewer tourists. More room to breathe.

Seriously, Praiano felt like a deep exhale. I'd wake up early, wander to some cute café for a cappuccino and a cornetto (iykyk), and then find a quiet spot to swim or just read. No stress. No fighting for space. Just the coast, the cliffs, and that gorgeous Mediterranean light.

If you're all about slow mornings, secret swimming spots, and those charming cobblestone streets, trust me, this is your town. Chef’s kiss.

My Favorite Cocktail Bar: Franco’s

Okay, listen up: when it comes to cocktails with a view, Franco’s in Positano is where it's at.

Picture this: a super-chic open-air terrace, that warm golden light bouncing off the sea, and some vintage Italian jazz setting the mood. And the Aperol Spritz? Perfectly balanced. Not too sweet, not too strong. Just. Right.

It's the kind of place where you want to dress up a little, not in a 'trying too hard' way, but in a 'vacation chic' kind of way. I threw on some wide-leg linen pants, a simple tank, and my go-to Mantra sunnies. Instant movie moment, I swear.

Pro tip: Get there early! It gets packed, and snagging a front-row seat to that view is 100% worth it.

Where I Ate: Donna Rosa

Ever have those meals you're still thinking about months later? This was one of them.

Donna Rosa is this family-run restaurant tucked away in Montepertuso, a little hilltop village above Positano. It's about a 20-minute drive from Praiano, but trust me, it’s so worth the drive.

Everything, from the hand-painted plates to the cozy lighting, felt so thoughtful and welcoming. It’s like you’re being invited into someone’s (very stylish) home for dinner.

And the food? Out of this world. The scallops were melt-in-your-mouth perfect. The pasta was silky and bursting with flavor. And don’t even get me started on the lemon cake.

I would fly back to Italy just for that meal. Seriously. No notes.

Must-Do: A Day Trip to Capri

Okay, Capri has a reputation, I know. But I'm telling you, it lives up to the hype.

I booked a small boat tour from the Amalfi Coast, and they dropped us off in Capri for a few hours. No plans, no stress. I just wandered through those gorgeous gardens, those winding alleys, and those cute little piazzas filled with locals sipping espresso.

If you go, wear comfy shoes (all those stairs!), bring your favorite bag, and make sure you've got enough space on your camera roll. Every corner is a photo op.

Oh, and whatever you do, don't skip the lemon granita. It's icy, tangy, and basically a religious experience on a hot day.

Money-Saving Hack: Take the Bus

Okay, let's talk about the one thing nobody warns you about: the taxis.

They are crazy expensive on the Amalfi Coast. Like, €80 for a ten-minute ride expensive. So unless you're rolling with a group or have endless cash, I highly recommend taking the bus.

They’re local, endearingly chaotic, and only cost a couple of euros. Plus, they come pretty regularly, and every ride includes some seriously jaw-dropping coastal views.

Pro tip: Ask your hotel or Airbnb host for the latest schedule, and try to travel when it's not rush hour if you don't want to stand the whole time.

Savings = more money for wine and gelato. That's just basic math.

Packing the Travel Vibe

This trip reminded me that travel doesn’t have to be all rushed and flashy to be amazing. Honestly, it’s those slower, more intentional moments that really stick with you.

And when I'm packing, I'm all about clothes that feel like a vacation. Breathable, beautiful, and easy to wear. That’s why I always bring my favorite Mantra pieces. 

It was all about mixing comfort with a little bit of Italian romance. The kind of outfits that feel just as good as they look.

Dreaming of Your Own Summer Escape?

Whether you're planning your first Amalfi adventure or just dreaming about it for now, one thing's for sure, you want to feel amazing while you're there.

We’ve got you covered with those easy, breezy styles that are perfect for sunny days and those long summer nights. From beach walks to spritz o’clock, Mantra pieces are made for the moments you’ll remember forever.

Shop the travel-ready collection here: https://mantraofficial.com

Tell Us: Where’s Your Next Escape? 

We want to see where your Mantra takes you! Been somewhere amazing lately? Or planning a dreamy trip soon? Tag us @mantra.official and share the view–we’re living vicariously through your adventures 🌍