Amalfi Coast Travel Guide

From tips on the best times to visit to insights on must-see attractions and where to stay, my comprehensive Amalfi Coast Travel Guide will help you craft an unforgettable Italian getaway.

The Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, sparkling blue waters, and charming coastal villages, is one of Italy's most iconic destinations. Whether you're planning to bask on sun-drenched beaches, indulge in fresh seafood, or explore picturesque towns like Positano and Ravello, this guide has you covered.

Jump to:

• How to Get to Amalfi Coast
• Naples to Amalfi Coast Options
• Best Time to Visit Amalfi Coast
• How Many Days to Stay in Amalfi Coast
• Key Towns of Amalfi Coast
• Getting Around Amalfi Coast
• Top Hotels in Amalfi Coast
• Top Things to Do in Amalfi Coast
• Top Photo Spots
• Top Beaches to Visit
• Best Restaurants in Amalfi Coast
• Top Beach Clubs
• Travel Tips
• Ready to Book Your Italy Trip?
• More Travel Resources

How to Get to Amalfi Coast

By Air: The closest major airport is Naples International Airport (NAP), about 60 km away.

By Train: From Rome or Naples, take a high-speed train to Salerno, which is well-connected to Amalfi towns by bus or ferry.

By Car: Renting a car is an option, but note that the Amalfi Coast roads are narrow and winding, and parking is limited.

By Ferry: Ferries from Naples, Salerno, or Sorrento provide scenic entry points to towns like Amalfi and Positano.

Naples to Amalfi Coast Options

Here are some additional details on getting to the Amalfi Coast from Naples:

Option A: Private Transfer (Easiest + Most Comfortable)

• Hire a private driver directly to your Amalfi Coast destination.
• Travel time: 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic.
• Cost: €100-€200 (great value for couples or small groups).

Option B: Ferry from Naples to Amalfi Coast

• Take a direct ferry from Naples to towns like Amalfi, Positano, or Sorrento.
• Travel time: ~1.5-2.5 hours, depending on stops and route.
• Cost: Typically €20-€40, depending on the operator and destination.

Notes: Ferries run April-October (weather permitting). Booking in advance is recommended during peak season. Perfect for enjoying stunning coastal views from the water.

Option C: Train + Ferry Combo

• Take the Circumvesuviana train from Naples to Sorrento (~1 hour).
• From the Sorrento port, board a ferry to Amalfi or Positano (~40 minutes).
  • Ferries operate April-October, weather permitting.
  • This route offers beautiful coastal views and a fun travel experience.

Option D: Train + Bus or Ferry via Salerno (Fastest Public Route)

• Take a high-speed train from Naples to Salerno (~35 minutes).
• From Salerno:
• Take a ferry to Amalfi (scenic and comfortable), or
  • Ride the SITA bus to Amalfi (€3.50 one way or €10 for 24-hour unlimited rides).
  • Tip: The bus can get crowded-arrive early to grab a seat.

**Book transfers and ferries in advance during peak season (May-September).

Best Time to Visit Amalfi Coast

The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is warm and pleasant but the crowds are smaller than in peak summer. During these months, you can enjoy the scenic towns, hiking trails, and beaches without long lines, and accommodation prices are generally more reasonable.

Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter offers a quieter experience but with limited services and cooler temperatures. Overall, spring and fall provide the perfect balance of weather, accessibility, and atmosphere for exploring the Amalfi Coast.

How Many Days to Stay in Amalfi Coast

For a fulfilling visit, 3 to 5 days on the Amalfi Coast is ideal. This allows time to explore the main towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, enjoy a boat tour or ferry ride, take a day trip to Capri, relax at the beaches, and sample local cuisine.

Fewer than three days can feel rushed, while a week or more is perfect if you want a slower pace, more hiking, or to explore quieter villages like Praiano, Nerano, and Atrani.

Key Towns of Amalfi Coast

Below are the most popular towns of the Amalfi Coast:

1. Positano

• Description: Often regarded as the jewel of the Amalfi Coast, Positano is renowned for its colorful cliffside homes, chic boutiques, and cobbled streets that lead down to the beautiful beach. The town offers stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean and is a popular destination for luxury travelers.
• Highlights: Famous for pastel-colored houses, Spiaggia Grande beach, and boutique shopping.

2. Amalfi

• Description: Amalfi is one of the most famous towns along the Amalfi Coast, known for its charming narrow streets and vibrant piazzas. It is a lively town with a rich history, offering a blend of culture, scenic beauty, and coastal charm.
• Highlights: Known for its historic cathedral (the Cathedral of St. Andrew).

3. Ravello

• Description: Ravello is perched high above the coast and is famous for its breathtaking views, historic villas, and beautiful gardens. Known for its cultural festivals and music events, Ravello offers a peaceful and artistic atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for travelers seeking both beauty and tranquility.
• Highlights: Renowned for its clifftop gardens at Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.

4. Praiano

• Description: Praiano is a charming, quieter town on the Amalfi Coast, nestled between Positano and Amalfi. Known for its breathtaking sunsets and dramatic cliffs, Praiano offers an authentic coastal experience away from the crowds. Its narrow streets, pastel-colored houses, and local beaches like Marina di Praia and Gavitella make it perfect for a relaxed stay while still being close to the region's main attractions.
• Highlights: A peaceful village with stunning sea views, picturesque beaches, and iconic Amalfi Coast sunsets

5. Furore

• Description: Furore is a small and less-known town, famous for its fjord-like bay. With dramatic cliffs, the town offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, providing a unique and secluded experience along the Amalfi Coast.
• Highlights: Visit the famous Furore Fiordo, a dramatic gorge with a hidden beach.

6. Maiori and Minori

• Description: These two charming towns, located just a short distance from Amalfi, offer a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere compared to the larger coastal towns. Maiori is known for its long, sandy beach, making it a popular spot for sunbathers and families. The town has a pleasant promenade, lovely cafes, and a relaxed vibe. Minori, a small town with a rich history, features narrow streets, ancient Roman ruins, and a stunning beach. Both towns offer easy access to the Amalfi Coast's main attractions, while providing a more tranquil setting for visitors.
• Highlights: Relax on Maiori's long sandy beach or sample the famous sfogliatella pastry in Minori.

7. Atrani

• Description: Atrani is one of the smallest towns along the Amalfi Coast, but it is full of charm and beauty. Nestled between steep cliffs and the Mediterranean Sea, Atrani is just a short walk from Amalfi but is much quieter, offering a more intimate and authentic experience. Its cobbled streets, old-fashioned buildings, and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect place to explore if you want to experience the Amalfi Coast without the crowds.
• Highlights: A quieter village with medieval charm, perfect for a relaxed getaway.

8. Sorrento (Gateway Town)

• Description: Sorrento is one of the most famous towns on the Amalfi Coast and often serves as the gateway to the region for travelers arriving by ferry or train. The town's historical center is full of charming streets, with cafes, shops, and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine. Sorrento is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions, such as Pompeii, the island of Capri, and the Vesuvius volcano.
• Highlights: Known for limoncello production, vibrant markets, and dramatic cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples.

Getting Around Amalfi Coast

Getting around the Amalfi Coast is part of the adventure, with winding coastal roads, ferries, and buses connecting the towns rather than relying solely on cars. While driving is possible, traffic can be heavy and parking is limited, so many travelers prefer public transport or boats.

• Walking & Exploring: The best way to discover the towns' narrow streets, colorful alleys, and cliffside paths.
• Ferry & Boat: Regular ferries connect towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, offering stunning coastal views and a relaxing way to travel. Private boats or water taxis provide a more personalized experience, including stops at hidden coves and seaside villages.
• Bus: SITA buses run between Amalfi Coast towns and nearby areas, making it convenient to reach places that ferries don't serve.
• Car: Useful for exploring the surrounding area, but less convenient within towns themselves due to narrow streets, steep cliffs, and limited parking.

Top Hotels in Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is home to some of Italy's most breathtaking and luxurious accommodations-where cliffside beauty, Mediterranean charm, and Italian hospitality come together seamlessly. From luxury villas with panoramic sea views to boutique hotels tucked into colorful village streets, the region offers options for every kind of traveler. Whether you're seeking a five-star retreat with terraces overlooking the coast, a romantic hideaway by the harbor, or a charming inn close to scenic cliffside paths, Amalfi Coast accommodations are as unforgettable as the villages themselves.

Luxury Hotels in Amalfi Coast

• Hotel Miramalfi (Amalfi) - This scenic hotel offers panoramic views of the coast and is located near Amalfi, perfect for exploring the beauty of the Mediterranean.
• Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel (Amalfi) - A luxurious 5-star property housed in a restored 12th-century convent, offering a blend of historic charm and modern amenities overlooking the stunning coast.
• Le Sirenuse (Positano) - A glamorous, iconic hotel with breathtaking sea views, it's known for its impeccable service and design, making it a top choice for luxury travelers.
• Hotel Santa Caterina (Amalfi) - Perched on cliffs with stunning views of the sea, this family-owned hotel is known for its elegant atmosphere and exceptional hospitality.
• Il San Pietro di Positano (Positano) - A 5-star hotel with a private beach, cliffside views, and an exquisite restaurant, it's a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty.
• Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa (Conca dei Marini) - A restored 17th-century monastery turned luxury hotel, offering a serene atmosphere and a world-class spa overlooking the sea.
• Caruso, A Belmond Hotel (Ravello) - Located in Ravello, this opulent hotel features stunning views, lush gardens, and an infinity pool, ideal for a tranquil escape.
• Casa Angelina (Praiano) - A modern boutique hotel with minimalist design, offering incredible views of the coast, perfect for those looking for elegance and tranquility.
• Villa Treville (Positano) - A luxurious and exclusive villa offering personalized service and privacy, with incredible views of the Mediterranean and the picturesque Positano.
• Furore Grand Hotel (Furore) - Situated in the small town of Furore, this hotel provides a peaceful setting with panoramic views of the coast, perfect for a more laid-back getaway.

Boutique & Mid-Range Hotels in Amalfi Coast

• Hotel Marincanto (Positano) - A charming, cliffside hotel with stunning sea views and stylish Mediterranean décor.
• Villa Maria (Ravello) - A boutique stay with lush gardens, elegant rooms, and a serene atmosphere overlooking the coast.
• Hotel Villa Franca (Positano) - A stylish hotel perched above the town, perfect for sunset views and relaxing by the pool.
• Buca di Bacco (Positano) - Avbeloved beachfront hotel located right on Spiaggia Grande, offering classic Positano charm with stunning sea views.
• Hotel Savoia (Positano) - A family-run hotel with comfortable rooms and convenient access to the town center and ferry services.

Top Things to Do in Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a region full of unforgettable experiences, from colorful cliffside villages to hidden coves along the sparkling Mediterranean. Whether wandering the streets of Positano, taking a ferry between Amalfi and Ravello, exploring historic villas and lemon groves, or watching the sunset over the sea, there's something for every traveler to enjoy.

• Boat Tours: Explore hidden coves and cliffs from the water. Departures are available from Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi.
• Path of the Gods: A legendary hiking trail offering unparalleled views of the coast.
• Day Trips to Capri: Visit the island's famous Blue Grotto and chic boutiques.
• Historical Sites: Amalfi's Cathedral and Ravello's villas are must-see landmarks.

Top Photo Spots

The Amalfi Coast is a photographer's dream, with colorful cliffside villages, sparkling Mediterranean waters, and dramatic coastal cliffs. From seaside promenades to hillside viewpoints, the region offers endless opportunities for stunning shots. Here are some of my favorite spots:

• Via Cristoforo Colombo (Positano) - The classic cliffside view of pastel houses cascading to the sea.
• Villa Rufolo Gardens (Ravello) - Iconic terraces with sweeping views over the coast.
• Amalfi Cathedral Steps (Amalfi) - Perfect for capturing Amalfi's energy and historic charm.
• From a boat off the Positano coast - For the postcard-perfect view of the town from the water.
• Gardens of Augustus (Capri) - Framing the Faraglioni rocks and sparkling blue sea.
• Positano Delicatessen (Positano) - The charming pink façade is an Instagram favorite.
• Villa Cimbrone's Terrace of Infinity (Ravello) - One of the most breathtaking panoramic spots in all of Italy.
• Fiordo di Furore (Furore) - A dramatic, hidden beach wedged between towering cliffs.
• Marina Grande Beach (Positano) - Capture the colorful umbrellas and iconic backdrop.
• Path of the Gods (Agerola to Nocelle) - Sweeping coastal views ideal for wide landscape shots.
• Conca dei Marini - Overlooks the Emerald Grotto and the glittering sea below.
• Piazzetta di Capri - Perfect for lively street photography with island charm.

Top Beaches to Visit

The Amalfi Coast isn't just about cliffside villages and panoramic views-it's also home to some of Italy's most beautiful beaches. From hidden coves with crystal-clear waters to lively seaside stretches lined with cafés and colorful umbrellas, the coast offers something for every type of beachgoer. Whether you're looking to relax, swim, or soak in the dramatic scenery, these beaches are perfect for a sun-soaked day along the Mediterranean.

• Marina Grande (Positano) - The most famous and glamorous beach, lined with colorful umbrellas, beach clubs, and restaurants.
• Fornillo Beach (Positano) - A quieter alternative to Marina Grande, accessible by a short coastal path.
• Spiaggia di Atrani (Atrani) - A charming, small-town beach with a relaxed local vibe and easy access to cafés.
• Marina Grande (Amalfi) - The main beach in Amalfi, perfect for swimming and close to the historic center.
• Duoglio Beach (Amalfi) - Known for clear waters and great snorkeling, reached by a long staircase or boat.
• Gavitella Beach (Praiano) - Offers sunshine all day and beautiful views of Positano and Capri; features popular beach clubs like La Gavitella and One Fire Beach.
• Marina di Praia (Praiano) - A small, dramatic cove surrounded by cliffs, home to beach clubs and restaurants.
• Furore Fjord (Fiordo di Furore) - A striking, narrow beach set between towering cliffs-a must-see for its scenery.
• Maiori Beach (Maiori) - The longest sandy beach on the coast, ideal for families and a more spacious feel.
• Minori Beach (Minori) - Smaller and quieter, great for a laid-back beach day and local dining nearby.
• Marina del Cantone (Nerano) - Crystal-clear waters and top seaside restaurants, popular for boat trips and swimming.

Best Restaurants in Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast's dining scene is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, where fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and traditional recipes come together in every dish. From elegant seaside restaurants with panoramic views of the coast to cozy trattorie tucked into colorful village streets, the Amalfi Coast offers a culinary experience that blends rustic charm, creativity, and authentic Italian flavors. Whether you're savoring freshly caught fish, spaghetti alle vongole, or a classic Caprese salad paired with local limoncello, every meal here feels like a true taste of the Mediterranean.

• Da Adolfo (Positano)
  A casual, iconic spot on Laurito Beach offering freshly caught seafood, pasta, and grilled specialties. Perfect for a relaxing meal by the water. Accessible via shuttle boat from Positano.
• Ristorante La Sponda (Positano)
  This Michelin-starred restaurant in Le Sirenuse Hotel provides refined Italian cuisine with stunning views of the coast. Candlelit dinners create a magical ambiance.
• Lo Scoglio da Tommaso (Nerano)
  Located right on the water, it's known for simple, authentic seafood dishes and its proximity to the beach. Try their famous zucchini pasta.
• Da Armandino (Praiano)
  Situated at Marina di Praia, this locals' favorite serves fresh seafood with an incredible beachfront setting. The fried calamari and seafood pasta are highly recommended.
• Babel Wine Bar Deli & Art (Ravello)
  A cozy spot for lighter fare like charcuterie and salads, complemented by local wines and a relaxing artistic vibe.

For more restaurants, check out my Amalfi Coast Restaurant Guide.

Top Beach Clubs

The Amalfi Coast isn't just about stunning beaches-it's also home to stylish beach clubs where sun, sea, and luxury come together. From chic lounges with cabanas and cocktails to lively spots with music and seaside dining, these clubs offer the perfect way to relax, socialize, and soak up the Mediterranean sun in style.

Many of these spots require reservations, especially during peak season.

• Bagni d'Arienzo (Positano)
  A stylish beach club accessible by boat, with orange loungers and a serene atmosphere. The on-site restaurant serves fresh seafood dishes.
• One Fire Beach Club (Praiano)
  Known for its lively vibe, this club offers chic loungers, cocktails, and a signature "watermelon rite." The sunset views are spectacular.
• Treville Beach Club (Positano)
  An exclusive spot on Laurito Beach with luxury cabanas, massages, and excellent dining options. Many guests dine next door at Da Adolfo after lounging here.
• Lido degli Artisti (Amalfi)
  A rustic yet charming beach club on Duoglio Beach. It offers water activities like snorkeling and windsurfing, along with fresh seafood.
• Lido Marinella (near Sorrento)
  It is known for its pristine sandy beach and clear waters, offering a laid-back yet luxurious experience.

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