The Amalfi Drive is one of the most spectacular coastal roads in Europe and passes through some absolutely stunning scenery. Starting from Sorrento, it winds its way along the cliff edge offering breathtaking views until it reaches Amalfi, one of the four Maritime Republics and birthplace of Flavio Gioia, inventor of the magnetic compass. In the centre of Amalfi stands the imposing IX-century cathedral with its famous striking façade decorated with gilded XIX-century mosaics. Amalfi is also close to Ravello, another delightful and well-known tourist town with two world-famous villas, Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.