The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most breathtaking destinations, known for its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and jaw-dropping sea views. Whether you’re exploring charming coastal towns, indulging in delicious Italian cuisine, or taking in some of the most iconic panoramas in the world, visiting the Amalfi Coast is truly a bucket list experience.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: how to get to the Amalfi Coast, where to stay, top things to do, how to navigate the narrow roads, the best scenic viewpoints, and the best times to visit.
Why the Amalfi Coast is a Must-Visit Destination
The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its steep cliffs, picturesque villages, and Mediterranean charm. Each town along the coast has its own unique personality, making it an exciting and diverse place to explore.
- Best time to visit: April–June and September–October for warm weather and fewer crowds
- High season: July–August (very crowded and expensive)
- Low season: November–March (some hotels and restaurants close, but fewer tourists)
How to Get to the Amalfi Coast
Most visitors arrive from Naples, which is the closest major city with an international airport. From Naples, there are several ways to reach the Amalfi Coast:
By Car (Challenging Option)
Driving along the Amalfi Coast is not for the faint of heart. The Amalfi Drive (SS163) is one of the most scenic coastal roads in the world, but it’s also incredibly narrow, filled with hairpin turns, and prone to heavy traffic.
Keep in mind that the journey from Naples involves crossing a mountain, which can make passengers prone to motion sickness. Parking is also extremely limited and expensive.
→ While driving offers flexibility, be prepared for narrow roads, hairpin turns, and intense traffic.
→ The road passes through a mountain, and many travelers experience motion sickness due to the endless twists and turns.
By Bus (Budget-Friendly Option)
Buses are the cheapest way to get around the Amalfi Coast, but they can be unreliable due to traffic and high demand, and can take much more time compared to driving.
- The SITA bus connects Naples to towns like Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi.
- It’s a budget-friendly option but gets very crowded in summer.
- Buses run frequently, but expect delays due to congestion on the coastal roads.
By Train & Ferry (Scenic Option)
A great way to avoid traffic and enjoy beautiful views is to combine train and ferry transportation.
- Take a train from Naples to Sorrento and then a ferry to Amalfi or Positano.
- This option offers breathtaking sea views and a smooth ride.
- Ferries are the best way to avoid road traffic while soaking in the stunning coastline.
By Private Transfer (Most Comfortable Option)
For a hassle-free experience, private transfers are a great alternative.
- Local drivers know how to handle the tricky roads.
- While expensive, this is the most comfortable and stress-free way to travel.
- Ideal for those who want to maximize convenience and minimize stress.
Tours (Great for Time-Sensitive Travelers)
If you’re short on time, booking a tour can help you maximize your experience. For example, we booked a full-day tour from Naples, with half a day in Amalfi and half a day in Pompeii. It’s a bit rushed, but if you’re limited on time, it’s an excellent way to see a lot in a short period.
Tours often include transportation, guides, and skip-the-line access, so you can cover more ground and enjoy the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
Best Towns to Visit on the Amalfi Coast
Each town on the Amalfi Coast has its own unique charm and attractions. Here’s a breakdown of the most beautiful places you should visit:
Positano – The Most Instagrammable Spot
Positano is one of the most famous and picturesque towns on the Amalfi Coast, known for its steep streets, colorful buildings, and stunning seaside views. It has a glamorous reputation, with luxury hotels, boutique shops, and beautiful beaches.
- Best for: Stunning beaches, boutique shopping, luxury hotels
- Don’t miss: Spiaggia Grande, Church of Santa Maria Assunta, sunset views from Franco’s Bar
- Extra tip: Walk up to the Le Sirenuse Hotel rooftop bar for a breathtaking panorama of the coast.
Amalfi – The Heart of the Coast
The town of Amalfi gives the coast its name and is rich in history, culture, and breathtaking sea views. Once a powerful maritime republic, today it’s known for its impressive cathedral, charming streets, and delicious limoncello.
- Best for: History, culture, scenic harbor views
- Don’t miss: Amalfi Cathedral, Paper Museum, lemon groves
- Extra tip: Visit Piazza del Duomo in the evening when it’s less crowded and beautifully lit.
Ravello – The Cliffside Gem
Ravello sits high above the coastline, offering a quieter and more elegant atmosphere compared to the busier seaside towns. It’s famous for its gardens, music festivals, and breathtaking viewpoints.
- Best for: Breathtaking gardens, classical music concerts, peace & quiet
- Don’t miss: Villa Cimbrone, Villa Rufolo, Ravello Festival (summer months)
- Extra tip: Try a sunset aperitivo at the Belmond Hotel Caruso for a luxurious experience.
Praiano – The Hidden Gem
Praiano is a charming and peaceful alternative to the busier towns of Amalfi and Positano. It offers spectacular views and an authentic Italian feel.
- Best for: Fewer crowds, romantic stays, authentic atmosphere
- Don’t miss: Marina di Praia, incredible coastal views
- Extra tip: Hike to the San Domenico Monastery for a lesser-known but stunning view.
Sorrento – The Perfect Base for Exploring
Sorrento is often considered the gateway to the Amalfi Coast and a fantastic base for travelers. With its charming old town, vibrant piazzas, and breathtaking sea cliffs, it offers a mix of culture, history, and convenience.
- Best for: Easy access, lively atmosphere, stunning sea views
- Don’t miss: Piazza Tasso, Marina Grande, Limoncello tasting, Vallone dei Mulini
- Extra tip: Stay in Sorrento if you want easy transport connections to Naples, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast.
Insider Tips for Visiting the Amalfi Coast
- Book accommodations early – Hotels fill up fast, especially in summer. Stay in Ravello or Praiano for fewer crowds.
- Use ferries instead of buses – They’re faster, more scenic, and less crowded.
- Go early or late in the day – Avoid midday crowds by exploring in the morning or evening.
- Carry cash – Some restaurants and small businesses don’t accept cards.
- Wear comfortable shoes – Streets are steep and cobbled, so heels are not practical.
Fun Facts About the Amalfi Coast:
- UNESCO World Heritage: The Amalfi Coast was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, due to its exceptional beauty and cultural significance.
- Lemon Country: The Amalfi Coast is famous for its lemons, particularly the Sfusato Amalfitano variety, which are larger and sweeter than typical lemons. The region’s limoncello is a must-try treat!
- The Path of the Gods: The Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) is one of the most famous hiking trails in the world, offering jaw-dropping views of the coast from the cliffs above.
- Secret Tunnels: Many of the Amalfi Coast’s grand villas, like Villa Rufolo in Ravello, have hidden underground tunnels that were once used for both protection and transportation.
- Pompeii Proximity: The Amalfi Coast is only about an hour’s drive from the ancient ruins of Pompeii, making it the perfect place to combine relaxation with a little history.
- Famous Filming Locations: The Amalfi Coast has appeared in numerous films, including The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) and Under the Tuscan Sun (2003).
- Ancient Maritime Republic: Amalfi was once one of the four powerful maritime republics of Italy, alongside Venice, Genoa, and Pisa. This history is still reflected in the town’s beautiful cathedral and impressive architecture.
- Vibrant Floral Scenes: The coastal cliffs are adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, wisteria, and jasmine, creating a colorful backdrop throughout the year.
Final Thoughts
The Amalfi Coast is a dream destination that offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Whether you’re sipping Limoncello in Amalfi, watching the sunset in Positano, or exploring the historic streets of Ravello, you’ll be surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.
Make sure to plan ahead, take your time to explore, and soak in every breathtaking view. The Amalfi Coast is pure magic.