The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most beautiful coastal destinations, where colourful villages cling to dramatic cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. With its winding roads, historic towns and delicious local food, this stretch of southern Italy offers plenty to discover.
Planning a visit to the Amalfi Coast but unsure where to stay or how best to explore? From coastal boat trips to charming villages and scenic drives, there are plenty of ways to experience this famous coastline.
During our travels through Italy, we chose Salerno as our base, exploring the Amalfi Coast by car and boat. Along the way, we discovered beautiful towns, enjoyed wonderful food and experienced some rather hair-raising coastal driving!
Is the Amalfi Coast Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, but it’s worth knowing what to expect before you arrive. The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most celebrated destinations, and its combination of natural beauty, historic towns and Mediterranean atmosphere makes it easy to understand why.
However, its popularity also brings a few challenges. During the busiest months, narrow streets become crowded, traffic can be frustrating and accommodation prices can be surprisingly high.
If you’re expecting quiet, undiscovered coastal villages, you may find the more famous destinations a little overwhelming. But if you enjoy exploring historic towns, discovering local food and experiencing some of Italy’s most remarkable scenery, there’s plenty to appreciate.
Our advice is to visit with realistic expectations and an open mind. You don’t need luxury accommodation or an expensive guided itinerary to enjoy the Amalfi Coast. Sometimes, choosing a different base and exploring independently can be just as rewarding.
Our Experience Exploring the Amalfi Coast and Salerno
Our journey to the Amalfi Coast was part of a much bigger road trip through Italy. With our Lease Car, we had the freedom to explore different regions, take the quieter roads and stop at places that caught our attention along the way.
Before reaching Salerno, we visited Monte Cassino, a place of particular significance to us as New Zealanders because of its connection to the Second World War and the 28th Māori Battalion. It was a meaningful stop on our journey south and a reminder that travelling through Italy isn’t always just about beautiful scenery.
We chose Salerno as our base for exploring the Amalfi Coast, mainly because accommodation was considerably more affordable than in the famous coastal towns. Even though we were travelling during the off-peak season, prices in places like Amalfi and Positano were still surprisingly high. Salerno offered a much more budget-friendly alternative, allowing us to enjoy the beautiful coastline without paying a premium for accommodation.
One of our most memorable experiences was driving the winding roads along the Amalfi Coast. Hair-raising at times, actually, most of the time! With narrow roads, sharp bends and steep drops, it certainly kept us on our toes.
Thankfully, we had a small car, so we simply took our time and enjoyed the spectacular scenery. We figured the local drivers and couriers knew these roads far better than we did, and when they wanted to pass, they’d find a way. And they certainly did!
Another highlight was taking a boat trip along the Amalfi Coast, which gave us a completely different perspective of the coastline. Seeing the colourful villages nestled into the cliffs from the water was absolutely beautiful. And after navigating those winding roads, it was rather nice to sit back, relax and admire the scenery without worrying about what was coming around the next bend!
We also spent time exploring Amalfi town, wandering through its streets, soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying a lovely meal. And of course, we couldn’t resist trying the local limoncello gelato, one of those little treats that makes travelling through Italy so enjoyable.
Looking back, it was a wonderful part of our Italian road trip, with a few nervous laughs along the way! We were glad we’d chosen to explore independently, giving ourselves the freedom to enjoy the coastline without following a strict itinerary.
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Things to Do Along the Amalfi Coast
There’s much more to the Amalfi Coast than admiring its famous views. Whether you enjoy history, outdoor adventures, relaxing beside the sea or discovering local traditions, there are plenty of experiences to add to your itinerary.
Some popular activities include:
- Coastal boat trips: Discover the coastline from the water, with opportunities to admire hidden coves and dramatic cliffs.
- Historic attractions: Visit centuries-old churches, beautiful villas and gardens overlooking the Mediterranean.
- Beaches and swimming: Relax at a beach club or discover smaller coastal swimming spots.
- Scenic walking trails: Explore routes such as the famous Path of the Gods, known for its panoramic coastal views.
- Local experiences: Join a cooking class, discover traditional lemon-growing practices or enjoy a guided food tour.
Want more ideas for your visit? Explore our Best Things to Do Along the Amalfi Coast guide for more inspiration, activities and memorable experiences.
Best Towns to Visit Along the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast may only stretch for around 50 kilometres, but there are plenty of beautiful towns and villages to discover along the way. From colourful buildings perched above the sea to historic streets, beaches and spectacular viewpoints, each destination offers something a little different.
Whether you’re exploring by car, ferry, bus or organised tour, these are some of the places worth including in your Amalfi Coast itinerary.
Amalfi
- One of the most recognisable towns along the coastline, Amalfi is a wonderful place to spend a few hours exploring. Its historic centre is filled with narrow streets, cafés, shops and restaurants, while the impressive Amalfi Cathedral overlooks the lively main square.
- It’s also a popular stop for coastal boat trips, making it relatively easy to combine sightseeing with time on the water.
Positano
- With its pastel-coloured buildings cascading down the hillside towards the sea, Positano is one of the most photographed destinations on the Amalfi Coast.
- The town is known for its steep streets, boutique shops, waterfront restaurants and beautiful coastal views. Be prepared for plenty of steps if you plan to explore beyond the beachfront.
Ravello
- Perched high above the coastline, Ravello offers a quieter atmosphere and some of the most spectacular views in the region.
- It’s particularly famous for its historic villas, beautiful gardens and panoramic terraces overlooking the sea. Unlike Amalfi and Positano, Ravello sits inland above the coast, making it a lovely contrast to the busy waterfront towns.
Salerno
- While Salerno may not have the famous cliffside setting of Positano or Amalfi, it has plenty of character of its own. Its historic centre is filled with narrow streets, churches, local shops and restaurants, while the waterfront promenade offers a lovely place for an evening stroll.
- Salerno also provides an opportunity to experience everyday life in a larger southern Italian city, away from the atmosphere of the smaller coastal villages. With its transport connections and access to nearby destinations, it’s worth exploring rather than simply treating it as somewhere to sleep.
Minori and Maiori
- For visitors wanting to experience a slightly different side of the Amalfi Coast, Minori and Maiori offer a more relaxed coastal setting.
- Both towns have beaches, restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere. Maiori is particularly known for its long beachfront, while Minori has a compact historic centre and a reputation for traditional pastries. These towns are worth considering if you’d prefer somewhere less focused on the famous postcard views of Positano and Amalfi.
Where to Stay Along the Amalfi Coast
Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel overlooking the Mediterranean, a charming guesthouse tucked into a coastal village or a budget-friendly apartment, there are accommodation options to suit different travel styles.
Before booking, there are a few things worth considering:
- Location: Staying in a coastal village puts you close to the attractions, while Salerno offers a convenient alternative for exploring the wider region.
- Parking: If you’re travelling by car, check whether your accommodation includes parking, as spaces can be limited and expensive.
- Accessibility: Many properties are built into steep hillsides, so check for stairs, lifts and walking distances before booking.
- Transport: If you’re relying on ferries or buses, choose accommodation within easy reach of transport connections.
- Seasonal availability: Accommodation prices and availability can change considerably throughout the year, so comparing options before booking is worthwhile.
Compare accommodation along the Amalfi Coast and in Salerno to find somewhere that suits your budget, travel plans and preferred location.
Getting to and Around the Amalfi Coast
Getting to and around the Amalfi Coast takes a little planning, particularly if you’re visiting during the busy summer months. With narrow coastal roads, limited parking and towns spread along the cliffs, choosing the right transport can make a big difference to your experience.
The good news is that you don’t need a car to explore this beautiful stretch of coastline. Trains, buses, ferries and organised tours all offer different ways to get around.
Getting to the Amalfi Coast
For most international visitors, Naples International Airport is the closest major airport, with onward connections to the surrounding region.
Depending on where you’re staying, there are several ways to reach the coastline:
- By train: Travel from Naples to Salerno, where you can connect with local buses or seasonal ferries to coastal towns.
- By bus: SITA buses connect towns along the Amalfi Coast, including Amalfi, Positano and Ravello.
- By ferry: Passenger ferries operate between several coastal destinations, particularly during the warmer months.
- By car: Hiring a car provides flexibility, although driving along the coast requires patience and confidence on narrow, winding roads.
- By organised transfer: Private transfers and pre-booked transport can be convenient if you’re travelling with luggage or prefer not to navigate public transport.
Exploring the Coast by Ferry
Travelling by ferry is one of the most scenic ways to experience the Amalfi Coast, offering beautiful views of the cliffs and colourful villages from the water.
Ferries connect several destinations, including Salerno, Amalfi and Positano, although routes and schedules vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
They’re particularly appealing if you’d prefer to avoid the winding coastal roads.
Getting Around by Bus
Local SITA buses are a popular option for travellers without a car, connecting many of the towns along the coastline.
However, buses can become extremely busy during peak season, and journeys may take longer than expected because of traffic.
Allow extra time for connections, particularly if you’re planning to visit several towns in one day.
Driving Along the Amalfi Coast
Having a car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace, stop at viewpoints where permitted and explore beyond the main tourist destinations.
However, the coastal roads are narrow, winding and often busy, with buses, delivery vehicles and local traffic sharing the same limited space.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Choose a smaller vehicle: Narrow roads and tight corners are much easier to manage in a compact car.
- Take your time: Don’t feel pressured to drive at the same speed as locals who know the roads.
- Check parking arrangements: Parking can be expensive and difficult to find, especially in popular towns.
- Watch for driving restrictions: Some sections of the coastal road have seasonal traffic restrictions, so check current rules before travelling.
- Use designated stopping areas: Avoid pulling over on narrow bends or blocking traffic to take photographs.
- Check your rental car insurance: Before driving along the Amalfi Coast, check your rental agreement and insurance policy to make sure you’re covered on the coastal roads. Some rental companies may have specific driving restrictions or exclusions, so it’s worth confirming these before setting off.
Exploring with an Organised Tour
If you’d rather leave the driving and transport arrangements to someone else, an organised tour can be a great way to experience the Amalfi Coast.
Day trips depart from destinations such as Naples, Sorrento and Salerno, with options ranging from guided sightseeing tours to coastal boat excursions.
Tours can be particularly useful if you’re short on time or want to visit several destinations without arranging individual transport connections.
Food and Local Flavours of the Amalfi Coast
Food is such an important part of travelling through Italy, and the Amalfi Coast is no exception. With its coastal location, fresh local produce and strong culinary traditions, this region offers plenty of delicious flavours to discover, from freshly caught seafood to handmade pasta and lemon-inspired treats.
One of the things you’ll quickly notice is the region’s love of lemons. The famous Sfusato Amalfitano lemons are grown on terraces overlooking the sea and are used in everything from desserts and refreshing drinks to the much-loved limoncello liqueur.
Local Specialities Worth Trying
If you’re exploring the Amalfi Coast, keep an eye out for some of these regional favourites:
- Scialatielli ai frutti di mare: A traditional pasta dish often served with fresh seafood, tomatoes and local herbs.
- Delizia al limone: A soft sponge cake filled and covered with lemon-flavoured cream, a popular dessert along the coast.
- Fresh seafood: Grilled fish, calamari, mussels and other seafood dishes feature prominently on coastal menus.
- Limoncello: The region’s famous lemon liqueur, traditionally enjoyed chilled after a meal.
- Lemon gelato: A refreshing treat, particularly welcome after wandering through the coastal towns.
Enjoying the Local Food
Whether you’re sitting at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying a quick bite from a bakery or discovering a small family-run trattoria, take the opportunity to try something local.
Restaurants with beautiful coastal views can come with higher prices, particularly in popular tourist areas. If you’re watching your budget, exploring the smaller streets away from the busiest waterfronts can sometimes reveal more affordable places to eat.
And don’t forget to leave room for dessert. With so many lemon-inspired treats to choose from, it would be a shame to miss out!
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful destination, but a little forward planning can make your visit much more enjoyable. From choosing the right time of year to allowing enough time to explore, these practical tips will help you make the most of your journey.
- Choose your travel dates carefully: July and August are generally the busiest months, with higher prices, crowded attractions and busy beaches. Spring and autumn can offer a more relaxed experience, although some seasonal services may be limited.
- Start your days early: Popular towns can become crowded as tour groups and day visitors arrive. Exploring earlier in the morning gives you a chance to enjoy the streets and attractions before the busiest part of the day.
- Allow more time than you think: Distances between towns may look short on a map, but getting from one place to another can take longer than expected. Avoid trying to squeeze too many destinations into a single day.
- Wear comfortable footwear: Many coastal towns have steep streets, uneven pathways and numerous steps. Good walking shoes will make exploring much more enjoyable.
- Carry some cash: While cards are widely accepted, having a little cash can be useful for small purchases, public toilets and places that may not accept cards.
- Be prepared for the weather: Summer temperatures can be hot, particularly when walking uphill or exploring exposed areas. Carry water, sunscreen and a hat, and plan regular breaks.
- Check seasonal opening times: Some attractions, restaurants, boat tours and other services operate reduced hours or close during the quieter months. Check availability before planning your day around a particular activity.
- Keep your itinerary flexible: Weather, sea conditions and busy periods can affect your plans. Having an alternative activity in mind can save disappointment if a boat trip or outdoor excursion isn’t possible.
- Take time to enjoy the atmosphere: It’s tempting to rush between famous viewpoints and attractions, but some of the loveliest moments come from simply wandering through the streets, stopping for a coffee or sitting beside the sea.
Our biggest tip is not to rush your visit. The Amalfi Coast is as much about enjoying the journey and atmosphere as it is about ticking destinations off a list.
Continue exploring the Amalfi Coast. Read our Best Things to Do on the Amalfi Coast and Exploring Sorrento and Naples guides for more places to visit and experiences to enjoy.
Final Thoughts on the Amalfi Coast and Salerno
Travelling through southern Italy reminded us that there’s no single right way to experience a destination. Some visitors prefer luxury hotels and organised tours, while others, like us, enjoy the freedom of exploring independently and making decisions along the way.
The Amalfi Coast certainly has its challenges, but that’s all part of travelling somewhere new. Not every moment needs to be perfectly planned, and sometimes the unexpected experiences become the stories you remember most.
For us, this was another wonderful chapter in our journey through Italy, and one we’re glad we included in our travels.
“The most memorable journeys aren’t always the easiest roads, but the ones that leave us with the best stories.”
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