Quick Amalfi tips
- Visit in May, early June or September if you can; July and August are the most crowded.
- Consider skipping the rental car. The coastal road is narrow and parking is hard.
- Use ferries, buses and pre-booked drivers instead.
- Pack light. Almost every town involves steps.
- Choose a base and make day trips from it instead of moving hotels often.
When to go
Most seasonal businesses, ferries and beach clubs run from roughly spring to autumn, often cited as March or April to October, though exact dates vary by operator. May, early June and September are widely recommended for good weather with fewer crowds. For other shoulder-season ideas, see places to travel in October. Summer is hot and busy, and some services close in winter, so check opening times before visiting off-season. Our Italy winter travel guide covers the south and warmer coasts out of season.
Getting there
Most visitors fly into Naples (NAP) or sometimes Rome, then continue by train, bus, ferry or private transfer. Salerno is a gateway at the eastern end, and Sorrento sits on the western side, reachable from Naples by regional train (the Circumvesuviana) or ferry. Allow extra time on summer weekends.
Getting around the Amalfi Coast
- Ferries: Often the least stressful way to move between Amalfi, Positano, Salerno, Sorrento and Capri. They run seasonally and can be affected by sea conditions, so check schedules and have a backup plan.
- Buses: SITA buses run along the coast road, and are cheap but can be crowded and slow in summer. Stand on the sea side for views, and expect standing room at peak times.
- Taxis and private drivers: Convenient but costly. Agree the price before you ride. Many travellers book transfers in advance.
- Ride apps: Do not count on Uber being practically available here. Plan on taxis or pre-booked drivers instead.
- Driving: The SS163 road is narrow and winding with heavy summer traffic. Local traffic restrictions have been introduced at times in peak season, so check current rules if you drive. If you rent, a small car and confident driving are essential. If your base has no hotel parking, ask about it before booking.
Where to base yourself
- Amalfi town: Central, with good bus and ferry links; a practical base.
- Positano: The most photogenic and the steepest, with many steps. Expensive and crowded by day.
- Praiano and Atrani: Quieter alternatives near the main towns.
- Ravello: High above the coast, peaceful and scenic, but a bus ride from the sea.
- Sorrento: Often cheaper and has good transport, but is not on the Amalfi Coast itself and requires a ferry, bus or drive to reach it. Many find it a useful budget or no-car base.
- Minori and Maiori: More beach-oriented and generally less costly.
Those without a car should prioritise towns with ferry and bus stops.
Positano or Amalfi?
Positano is the more dramatic, vertical and fashionable town, but it is also pricier and steeper. Amalfi is flatter, with a historic cathedral, more services and easier transport connections. If you want a base that is convenient, Amalfi usually wins; if you want views and a romantic stay, Positano is the usual choice. Many visitors do one as a base and the other as a day trip.
Can you walk between towns?
Not along the whole coast, but there are walks between some places. The Path of the Gods runs high above the sea and is a popular route, and there are paths linking nearby villages such as Amalfi, Atrani and Ravello. Trails involve many steps and can be steep, so wear proper shoes, bring water and check conditions locally. Walking from Positano to Amalfi directly along the road is not advisable.
Beating the crowds
- Go early. Day-trippers and tour buses typically arrive from mid-morning.
- Visit in the shoulder season.
- Stay overnight in the area rather than just visiting for the day.
- Try quieter towns such as Praiano, Atrani, Minori or Cetara.
- Eat dinner when the day crowds leave.
- Book popular restaurants and boat trips ahead in summer.
Pack light
You will probably carry bags up and down stairs. A small suitcase or backpack is much easier than a large case. For a carry-on approach, see packing for a month. Our Italy vacation packing list includes advice for coastal stays.
FAQ
How many days do you need? Three or four nights lets you see a few towns, take a boat trip and fit in a walk without a rush.
Do I need a car? For most visitors, no.
Is the coast good for a Croatia comparison? Both are scenic Mediterranean coasts with ferries and summer crowds; see our Croatia itinerary for the other side of the Adriatic.