Amalfi Coast: Complete Travel Guide

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Dramatic cliffs plunge into crystal-clear waters, pastel-colored villages cling to mountainsides, and the scent of lemon groves fills the Mediterranean air.

This UNESCO World Heritage coastline has captivated travelers for centuries – and it will steal your heart too. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect Amalfi Coast trip.

Best Towns to Visit

The Amalfi Coast stretches about 50 kilometers along the Sorrentine Peninsula. Each town has its own character and charm.

Positano

The most famous and photogenic town on the coast. Pastel buildings cascade down the cliff to a beautiful beach. It’s glamorous, romantic, and yes – expensive. But worth every euro for the views alone.

Best for: First-timers, honeymooners, Instagram lovers.

Amalfi

The historic heart of the coast and once a powerful maritime republic. The stunning cathedral dominates the main piazza. More accessible and less vertical than Positano, with better restaurants at lower prices.

Best for: History buffs, day-trippers, those who hate stairs.

Ravello

Perched 350 meters above the sea, Ravello offers the most spectacular views on the coast. Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone gardens for unforgettable panoramas. Quieter and more refined than the coastal towns.

Best for: Peace and quiet, garden lovers, romantic sunsets.

Praiano

A local favorite between Positano and Amalfi. Less touristy, more authentic, and home to some of the best beach clubs on the coast. Great base if you want a quieter experience.

Best for: Budget travelers, repeat visitors, beach lovers.

Atrani

The smallest town in southern Italy, just steps from Amalfi but worlds away in atmosphere. Tiny piazza, local vibes, and excellent restaurants without the tourist markup.

Best for: Authentic experience, foodies, photographers.

Best Time to Visit

Timing matters on the Amalfi Coast. The difference between seasons is dramatic.

May to June: Perfect weather, warm enough to swim, fewer crowds than peak summer. Our top recommendation.

September to October: Still warm, swimming possible, crowds thin out after mid-September. Sea is actually warmer than June.

July to August: Peak season. Hot, crowded, expensive. Roads are jammed, beaches packed. Book everything months in advance.

April and November: Shoulder season. Some restaurants and hotels closed, but pleasant for hiking and sightseeing. Not ideal for beach time.

Winter: Many places closed. Can be rainy. Only visit if you want solitude and don’t mind limited options.

How to Get There

The Amalfi Coast has no airport or train station. Here are your options:

From Naples Airport: Take the Curreri bus direct to Amalfi or Sorrento (90 minutes). Or arrange a private transfer.

From Rome: High-speed train to Naples (70 minutes), then bus or ferry to the coast.

From Sorrento: SITA bus along the coast road (90 minutes to Amalfi) or ferry in summer.

By Car: Possible but stressful. The road is narrow, winding, and parking is a nightmare. We recommend going car-free.

Getting Around the Coast

Once you’re there, you have several options:

SITA Bus: Cheap (€2-4) but crowded and slow. Runs frequently along the main road. An adventure in itself.

Ferry: The best way to travel in summer. Scenic, no traffic, connects major towns. Runs April to October.

Private Boat: Expensive but unforgettable. See the coast from the water, stop at hidden beaches, swim in grottoes.

Walking: Paths connect many towns. The Path of the Gods is legendary. Be prepared for lots of stairs.

Top Experiences

Don’t miss these quintessential Amalfi Coast experiences:

Take a Boat Tour

A private or group boat tour is the best way to experience the coast. Sail past colorful villages, swim in secluded coves, visit the famous Emerald Grotto. Many tours include Capri.

Pro tip: Sunset tours are magical but book in advance.

Hike the Path of the Gods

This legendary trail runs from Bomerano to Nocelle with jaw-dropping views the entire way. About 7 kilometers, moderate difficulty. Start early to avoid midday heat.

Pro tip: Take the bus up, hike down. Much easier on the knees.

Visit Ravello’s Gardens

Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone have the most spectacular gardens and viewpoints on the coast. Go late afternoon for the best light and smaller crowds.

Day Trip to Capri

The glamorous island is just a short ferry ride away. Visit the Blue Grotto, ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro, window shop in the piazzetta. Doable as a day trip from any Amalfi town.

Taste Limoncello

The Amalfi Coast is famous for its lemons. Visit a lemon grove, learn how limoncello is made, and taste the real thing. It’s nothing like the artificial stuff back home.

Best Beaches

The coast isn’t known for wide sandy beaches, but there are beautiful spots to swim:

Fornillo Beach (Positano): Less crowded alternative to the main Positano beach. Walk 10 minutes along the cliffside path.

Duoglio Beach (Amalfi): Take the stairs down for a quieter spot with clear water and good facilities.

Marina di Praia (Praiano): Tiny cove with a beach club, restaurant, and excellent swimming.

Fiordo di Furore: Dramatic fjord beach between Amalfi and Positano. Hard to reach but spectacular.

Pro tip: Rent a boat to find hidden beaches only accessible from the water.

Where to Eat

The Amalfi Coast has incredible food. Don’t miss:

Fresh Seafood: Caught daily and served simply. Look for “pesce del giorno” (fish of the day).

Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare: Local fresh pasta with mixed seafood. The signature dish of the coast.

Delizia al Limone: Lemon sponge cake filled with lemon cream. Heaven in dessert form.

Sfogliatella: Crispy shell-shaped pastry from nearby Naples. Best eaten warm.

Restaurant tip: Avoid restaurants right on the main streets. Walk down a side alley or up some stairs for better food and prices.

Where to Stay

Accommodation is expensive, especially in peak season. Book early.

Positano: Most romantic, best views, highest prices. Stay here for a special occasion.

Amalfi: Central location, good transport links, more affordable than Positano.

Praiano: Best value, local atmosphere, great beach clubs. Our top pick for a balanced experience.

Ravello: Peaceful retreat above the coast. Best for relaxation, less convenient for beach days.

Budget tip: Stay in Maiori or Minori on the eastern end. Less scenic but much cheaper.

Practical Tips

Book Ahead: Hotels, restaurants, and boat tours fill up fast in summer. Reserve 2-3 months in advance for peak season.

Bring Cash: Many small shops and restaurants don’t take cards.

Pack Light: You’ll be carrying bags up and down hundreds of stairs. Leave the big suitcase at home.

Wear Good Shoes: Flip flops won’t cut it. The coast is vertical and paths are uneven.

Start Early: Beat the day-trippers by doing major activities before 10am.

Final Thoughts

The Amalfi Coast is one of those rare places that lives up to the hype. Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s expensive. But the beauty is absolutely real and unforgettable.

Whether you’re sailing past colorful villages, hiking cliff-top paths, or simply sipping limoncello as the sun sets over the Mediterranean – this coast delivers the Italian dream.

Plan ahead, visit in shoulder season if possible, and prepare to fall in love.