Amalfi Coast Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Plan Your Visit

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The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most dramatic stretches of coastline. Colourful towns cling to steep cliffs above the Tyrrhenian Sea. The roads are narrow, the views are extraordinary, and the crowds can be intense. This Amalfi Coast travel guide covers everything you need to know before you go. Whether you have two days or two weeks, planning ahead makes the difference between a frustrating trip and an unforgettable one.

Where Is the Amalfi Coast?

The Amalfi Coast sits in Campania, in southern Italy. It runs for about 50 kilometres along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula. The coast stretches from Positano in the west to Vietri sul Mare in the east. Naples is roughly 60 kilometres to the north. Salerno lies at the eastern end of the coast and is a common base for visitors.

The coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has been listed since 1997 for its outstanding natural beauty and cultural significance. Romans, Normans, and later the Duchy of Amalfi all shaped the region over centuries. Today it is one of the busiest tourist destinations in Italy.

Best Time to Visit the Amalfi Coast

Late spring and early autumn are the best times to visit. May, June, and September offer warm weather, manageable crowds, and better prices. July and August are the peak months. The coast is extremely busy during summer, prices are highest, and the roads and ferries fill up fast.

April is a good option if you don’t mind cooler evenings. October can still be warm and is much quieter than summer. Most restaurants and hotels close between November and March. Some towns close almost entirely in winter.

For a broader look at when to travel across Italy, read our full guide on the best time to visit Italy.

How to Get to the Amalfi Coast

There is no direct train to the Amalfi Coast. Most visitors fly into Naples or Rome, then travel onwards by road or ferry.

From Rome

Rome is about three hours from the coast by train and road combined. Take the high-speed train from Roma Termini to Naples Centrale. The journey takes about 70 minutes. From Naples, take the ferry to Positano or Amalfi, or catch the SITA bus from Sorrento. If you’re spending time in Rome first, see our 5-day Rome itinerary for ideas.

From Naples

Naples is the most practical gateway. From Naples’ Molo Beverello port, ferries and hydrofoils run to Positano and Amalfi between April and October. The hydrofoil to Positano takes about 75 minutes. Ferries are slower but cheaper. Naples is a great city in its own right. Read our piece on Naples and its famous miracle if you plan to stop there.

Via Sorrento

Many visitors base themselves in Sorrento and travel the coast from there. The Circumvesuviana train runs from Naples to Sorrento in about 65 minutes. From Sorrento, the SITA bus runs along the coast road to all major towns. It’s a slow, winding journey but the views from the bus windows are spectacular.

Getting Around the Amalfi Coast

The SS163 coastal road is the main route along the coast. It is narrow, winding, and shared by cars, buses, scooters, and lorries. Driving yourself is possible but stressful, especially in summer. Parking is scarce and expensive in most towns.

Ferries between towns are the easiest option in summer. They run regularly between Positano, Amalfi, and Salerno. They are faster than the bus and far more relaxing. Timetables vary by season, so check before you go.

The SITA bus is the cheapest way to move between towns. Buy tickets in advance from tabaccherie or at bus stops. The bus can get very crowded in July and August. Travel early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the worst of it.

The Best Towns to Visit

Positano

Positano is the most photographed town on the coast. Its pastel buildings stack up the hillside in tight layers, with the domed Santa Maria Assunta church at the base. The main beach, Spiaggia Grande, is busy in summer but beautiful all the same. Boutique shops line the narrow lanes leading down to the water. Positano is expensive, but even a day visit is worth it.

Amalfi Town

Amalfi was once a powerful maritime republic that rivalled Venice, Genoa, and Pisa. That history shows in its architecture. The Cathedral of Saint Andrew dominates the main square, with its striking Arab-Norman facade. The town has a working harbour, good restaurants, and is well connected by ferry. It makes a good base if you want easy access to both ends of the coast.

Ravello

Ravello sits 350 metres above sea level and feels a world apart from the coastal crowds. Its gardens — at Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone — offer some of the finest views anywhere on the coast. Writers including D.H. Lawrence and Gore Vidal chose to live here. Ravello is quieter, cooler, and more refined than the towns below. Read our full guide to Ravello and what makes it so special.

Praiano

Praiano is the quiet alternative to Positano and Amalfi. It sits midway along the coast and sees far fewer visitors. The village has a small harbour, a handful of good restaurants, and access to the Sentiero degli Dei — the Path of the Gods hiking trail. If you want to experience the coast without the summer crowds, base yourself in Praiano.

What to Do on the Amalfi Coast

Swimming and sunbathing are the obvious choices. Most beaches charge for sun loungers and umbrellas in peak season. Some free beach access does exist but it is limited. Arrive early to get the best spots.

Hiking is excellent here. The Sentiero degli Dei runs from Nocelle (above Positano) to Bomerano and takes about four hours. The Valle delle Ferriere trail from Amalfi leads to a lush nature reserve with waterfalls. Both trails are moderate in difficulty and reward with spectacular views.

Boat tours are a popular way to see hidden sea caves, quiet coves, and towns from the water. You can hire small boats independently or book a group tour from Positano or Amalfi. Kayaking is also available.

The food is excellent throughout the coast. Freshly caught fish, buffalo mozzarella, limoncello made from local lemons, and sfogliatella pastry are all worth seeking out. The Amalfi Coast lemon — the sfusato amalfitano — is huge, fragrant, and different from anything you’ll find elsewhere.

How Much Does the Amalfi Coast Cost?

The Amalfi Coast is not cheap. It is one of Italy’s more expensive destinations and prices rise sharply in summer. Here is a rough guide to what to budget.

Accommodation: Budget options are limited. Expect to pay €80–€150 per night for a basic room in peak season. Mid-range hotels run €150–€300. Booking several months in advance is essential in July and August.

Food: A sit-down lunch at a standard restaurant costs €20–€40 per person. Dinner can run to €50–€80 with wine. Buying food from bakeries or markets cuts costs significantly.

Transport: Ferry tickets between towns cost €8–€25 depending on distance. The SITA bus is around €2 per journey. Parking in Positano can cost €30 or more per day.

Activities: Most beaches charge €15–€30 for a sun lounger and umbrella. Boat tours start at around €30 per person for group trips.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Book accommodation early. The coast has limited rooms and they sell out months ahead during peak season. If you want to stay in Positano in August, book by March at the latest.

Pack light. Many towns have steep stairs and narrow lanes. Wheeled luggage is a hindrance. A backpack makes life much easier.

Wear comfortable shoes. The terrain is uneven and hilly. Flip-flops are fine on the beach but poor for exploring towns.

Use the ferries. They are quicker than the bus for moving between major towns. They also give you the best view of the coastline.

Avoid driving if possible. The SS163 is a challenge even for experienced drivers. Buses, ferries, and taxis are far less stressful options.

Go early or late. The most popular viewpoints and beaches are quietest before 9am and after 5pm. Positano’s beach is a different place at 8am compared with noon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast?

May, June, and September are the best months. The weather is warm and the crowds are smaller than in July and August. Prices are also more reasonable in the shoulder season.

How do I get to the Amalfi Coast from Rome?

Take the high-speed train from Roma Termini to Naples Centrale, which takes about 70 minutes. From Naples, take a ferry to Positano or Amalfi, or continue by train to Sorrento and catch the SITA bus along the coast road.

Is the Amalfi Coast worth visiting for a week?

Yes, a week is a good amount of time to enjoy the coast without rushing. You can base yourself in two or three towns, do a hike, take a boat trip, and still have time to relax. Three to four days is the minimum for a meaningful visit.

Where should I stay on the Amalfi Coast?

Positano suits those who want to be at the centre of things. Amalfi town gives good ferry connections. Ravello is best for a quieter, more elevated experience. Praiano is ideal for those who prefer fewer crowds and more local character.

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