With pastel-colored buildings cascading down the hills on one side while the cerulean waters of the Mediterranean washes on the shores of the other, it came as no surprise this small town in Amalfi Coast known as Atrani was chosen as the central spot for the action-packed thriller Equalizer 3’s fictional town “Altamonte”.

While Altamonte is a town created just for the movie, much of its picturesque spots and places can be found in the real town of Atrani in Italy. The cobblestone walkways that Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) strolls around on, the arched ceilings he walks under, the churches that he climbs to and cafes he sips his tea from can all be found here.

“I’ve come to Italy for 31 years on vacation and I really began to understand a little bit – the culture.” said Denzel Washington during an interview for the film.

If you’re a fan of Equalizer 3 and would love to follow in McCall’s footsteps, then read on below to explore the village of Atrani like the fan-favourite action hero and make your stop in every spot that was used as the Equalizer 3 filming locations.

How to Get to Amalfi Coast – Atrani

The easiest way to get to Amalfi Coast is from Naples or Sorrento via a private guide. You can book a private a tour guide that will take you to all the places you want to see at Amalfi Coast. Be sure to relay on the message that you wish to see Atrani and customize the tour according to your needs.

If you wish to explore yourself, you can rent a car and drive through the beautiful roads to reach Atrani. It takes 3 hours from Rome and almost 1.5 hours from Naples or Sorrento. Buses are also available from Naples to Atrani.

Tracing Robert McCall’s Journey – Best things to do in Atrani

For fans eager to immerse themselves in the world of “Equalizer 3,” tracing Robert McCall’s journey through Atrani is an essential experience. While the entire film was shot in different places in Italy, such as Naples and Rome, here are the locations the places of Atrani that graced the screen and gave us those tense moments of thrill.

Piazzo Umberto I

Photo: (Right Image) An archway leading from the Piazza in Atrani
(Left Image) The confrontation scene between the mafia and Robert (Denzel Washington) taking place in the Piazza in Atrani (fictional Altamonte)

Begin your exploration at the iconic Piazza Umberto I, where McCall was seen strolling contemplatively, absorbing the sights and sounds of the village. The Piazza is a small area with a cobble stone ground surrounded by age old buildings that very much show its years. Cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating is lined here while a small fountain sits at the corner, showcasing how the Piazzo hasn’t changed much since its founding times.

From here, you can venture into the narrow alleyways with arches and steep stairways that wind their way through Atrani’s historic center, reminiscent of McCall’s covert movements as he navigated the streets while his injuries healed.

Santuario Santa Maria del Bando

Photo: (Top Image) A still of the scene where Emma asks Robert “why me?” during their conversation at Santa Maria church in Equalizer 3
(Bottom Image) Equalizer 3 shooting location of Santa Maria church where Emma and Robert converses about their plans

Located amidst the labyrinthine alleys and pastel-hued houses characteristic of Atrani, this church is where Robert and Emma meet for a quick chat after their initial meeting at Aminah’s cafe in the movie.

Just as Robert was seen panting as he stepped onto the last stair, this Santa Maria church is a heavy climb lined with 750 steps all the way to the top. Its origins are believed to trace to the 10th century, though the exact founding date remains shrouded in the mists of time. Throughout the ages, the sanctuary has served as a focal point for religious devotion and community gatherings, and since has undergone various renovations and expansions.

That said, the views from this hilltop shrine offers a breathtaking panaormic scene of the Amalfi Coast and is worth every stair to get to the church. So, if you’re planning to hike your way there, make sure to grab a bottle and put on your best walking shoes.

Ristorante Savo

Photo: (Top Image) A still of Robert (Denzel Washington) and Emma (Dakota Fanning) meeting for the first in Equalizer 3 at “Aminah’s Cafe”
(Bottom Image) Ristorante Savo was used as the shooting location for “Aminah’s Cafe” in Equalizer 3

Sip and taste the local delicacies of Italian coffee and traditional food at Ristorante Savo. In the movie “Aminah’s bar” is made entirely from scratch in the piazza of Atrani, the Ristoranto café is a spitting image of the café where Robert first orders his tea in “Altamonte” and meets Aminah.

The inside of the café is also where Robert confronts the mafia gang and threatens them to leave the village alone. Ristorante Savo is an ideal location to enjoy the setting of the movie while sipping on some coffee or traditional Atrani food.

Festivals or Events

Before you make your way to Atrani, make sure to give a quick check to see if the village have their traditional festivals or events on the days you travel. Attending one of Atrani’s traditional festivals or events means you can experience music, dance, and culinary traditions passed down through generations so you can celebrate with the local folks just as Robert did at the end of the movie.

Where to Stay and Dine

After a day of exploration, weary travelers can find solace in Atrani’s inviting accommodations, each offering a unique blend of comfort and charm.

For those seeking luxury, the Grand Hotel Santa Maria provides elegant rooms with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, while budget-conscious travelers may prefer the cozy rooms that dot the village’s winding streets. Whichever option you choose, rest assured that Atrani’s hospitality will make you feel right at home.

When you’re famished you can indulge in the culinary delights as the village boasts an array of restaurants that showcase the region’s renowned cuisine.

Sample freshly caught seafood at Trattoria A’ Paranza, where traditional dishes are prepared with a modern twist, or savor wood-fired pizzas at La Risacca, a local favorite known for its authentic flavors and relaxed atmosphere.

Whether you’re dining al fresco overlooking the sea or savoring a meal in a cozy trattoria, Atrani’s culinary offerings are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

In Atrani, the lines between fiction and reality blur as travelers follow in the footsteps of Robert McCall and explore the village’s timeless beauty and charm. Whether you’re drawn to Atrani by its cinematic allure or its rich history and culture, one thing is certain—you’ll find yourself captivated by the village’s undeniable magic. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to Atrani, where adventure awaits around every corner and unforgettable experiences are waiting to be discovered.

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