Simply Wanderfull
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The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline where steep cliffs meet the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean. Here, life moves at a relaxed pace, encouraging you to enjoy lazy days by the sea, sip on refreshing Spritz cocktails and local wines, and savour the delicious food the region is famous for.
The Amalfi Coast isn’t just a place to visit; it’s an experience that surrounds you with its stunning beauty and charm, making it an ideal getaway for those looking for both adventure and relaxation. If you are looking for a good reference book on planning a trip to Amalfi check out the Fodor’s The Amalfi Coast, Capri and Naples (Full color travel guide).
This article serves as a practical travel guide for planning your trip to the Amalfi Coast, one of Italy’s most enchanting destinations.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a romantic getaway, you’ll find invaluable tips and insights to for navigating and making the most of your journey along this stunning stretch of coastline.
What Towns Make up the Amalfi Coast?
The primary towns that make up the Amalfi Coast include:
- Positano – Famous for its steep cliffs and colorful buildings.
- Amalfi – Known for its historic cathedral and beautiful coastline.
- Ravello – Renowned for its gardens and breathtaking views.
- Praiano – A quieter town with a relaxed atmosphere.
- Furore – Noted for its dramatic cliffs and painted houses.
- Conca dei Marini – A small fishing village with beautiful beaches.
- Atrani – One of the smallest towns, famous for its charming piazza.
- Scala – A historic town with medieval architecture.
- Minori – Known for its beaches and Roman ruins.
- Maiori – Features a long beach and a lively promenade. *We were told this is a beautiful town to visit.
- Cetara – A fishing village famous for its anchovies.
- Vietri sul Mare – Renowned for its ceramics.
- Tramonti – Located inland, known for its wine and hiking trails.
Additionally, Sorrento and Salerno are not technically included in Amalfi but are included in due to their proximity and role as access points to the coastal towns.
Planning Your Trip:
So how many days is good to see the Amalfi coast? Whether you are planning a honeymoon, adventure or just a relaxing holiday you will need to do some research and pre-planning on how many days to visit the Amalfi coast.
I can only speak from our experience and I believe you will need at least 6 days in the Amalfi coast to be able to see a few of the towns or take tours and excursions. This is how our itinerary looked for the 6 days.
- 2 nights Rome
- 3 nights Sorrento
- 1 night Positano
- 2 nights Amalfi
- 1 night Rome
make your own vacation brochure!
Best Time To Visit the Amalfi Coast:
When is the best time to visit the Amalfi coast? In my opinion, I think September would be the best month for travelling to the Amalfi coast. The crowds will have dissipated, the sea water is still warm, and the weather will be slightly cooler than the steamy summer months. Here’s a breakdown of each season:
Spring (April to June)
- April to May: This period features mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds compared to the summer months. Temperatures range from 55°F to 77°F (13°C to 25°C), making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring coastal towns. May is particularly noted for its perfect temperatures and vibrant scenery.
- June: While it starts to get busier, early June still offers pleasant weather and a lively atmosphere without the peak summer crowds.
Summer (June to August)
- July and August: These months are peak tourist season, characterized by warm temperatures (often exceeding 86°F or 30°C) and bustling beaches. While this is a vibrant time with numerous festivals, it can be crowded and more expensive.
Fall (September to October)
- September: This month is often cited as one of the best times to visit, as it combines warm weather with fewer tourists. Temperatures remain pleasant, and local festivals celebrating the harvest season are common.
- October: The weather is still mild, but it begins to cool down, making it a quieter time to explore the coast. Keep in mind though, places shut down after the second or third week in October so you may not have as many options for tours, and restaurants.
Getting To The Amalfi Coast
Getting to the Amalfi Coast is an adventure in itself, with several transport options available to reach this stunning destination. It is a great idea to map out a transportation plan before you go as this will likely be your biggest challenge for coordinating your trip.
Flights:
Reaching the Amalfi coast by plane is virtually impossible. There is a small airport in Salerno, called Salerno – Costa D’Amalfi Airport but it is very small with only a few direct flights and mainly services private jets. So, if you are like the majority of us a private jet may be out of the question unless we win the lottery.
You will likely need to fly into Rome or Naples, Italy. You will find more direct flight options to Rome, however Naples is a little closer to the Amalfi coast but will still require you to get their by boat, train or taxi. For booking flights I love to use Kayak.com for researching flight options. I usually always do my direct booking through the airline site in case I need to make changes.
Trains
The high speed trains in Italy are beautiful! Air conditioned and spacious. The regional trains are not so much. The issue is that there are no trains that service the small coastal towns in the Amalfi coast. The closest you can get to the Amalfi coast towns by train are Sorrento or Salerno. This is why I would recommend starting your vacation in Sorrento or Salerno. Both of these towns are located directly on the mediterranean sea. You will then be able to access the Amalfi towns by boat (easiest), or by car/bus. Here is how to get there by train.
Rome to Naples by train: If you plan to start your journey from Rome, I would recommend taking the fast train from Rome to Naples. The fast train from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale is called the Frecciarossa high-speed train. It will take 1-1/2 hours to go from Rome to Naples. You can pre-purchase tickets or purchase them right at the train station.
*Tip: We travelled in August which is one of the busiest times of the year and were able to purchase tickets same day within a half hour of departure. If you pre-purchase tickets spend more for the refundable ticket so that you can make changes if needed. You never know how your schedule may play out on that day.
Naples to Salerno by train: There is a fast train that departs from Naples and goes directly to Salerno. Salerno is south of the Amalfi coast towns. A possible idea for your itinerary could be by starting your vacation in Salerno and then work your way back to Sorrento for a train back to Naples, then a transfer back to Rome.
To take the fastest route from Naples to Salerno, you can use the Frecciarossa or Italo high-speed trains. The fastest trains can complete the journey in approximately 31 to 40 minutes, depending on the specific service.
- Frecciarossa trains are among the fastest options available, taking about 30 minutes.
- Italo trains also provide a quick connection, with travel times around 53 minutes for some services.
Both train types offer frequent departures throughout the day, making it easy to find a convenient schedule for your trip. Be sure to check the train schedules in advance for the best options.
Naples to Sorrento by train: To get to Sorrento by train you can take a regional train directly for Napoli Centrale. Located in the bottom level of the Napoli train station you will find a ticket office for the Campania Express where you can purchase tickets same day for a train to Sorrento.
- Campania Express: A faster and more comfortable option, this tourist-focused train takes approximately 50-60 minutes, offering guaranteed seating and air conditioning. Tickets cost around €15 euro.
Boat Ferry:
Taking boat ferries from town to town along the Amalfi coast is very scenic, cost efficient and an enjoyable way to get around. You can purchase tickets directly at the ferry dock, or online. If you purchase the tickets online you will still need to go to the ticket booth to get a physical ticket. Check out Ferryhopper.com for tickets, schedules and more. Here are the boat ferry companies that service the Amalfi coast.
- Travelmar – This company offers extensive ferry services connecting Salerno, Amalfi, Positano, Maiori, and Minori, making it a popular choice for travelers looking to navigate the coast efficiently.
- Alicost – Known for its comfortable and modern boats, Alicost provides connections between Salerno, Amalfi, and Capri, allowing for a delightful journey with great views of the coastline.
- NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo) – This operator runs ferries primarily between Naples and the Amalfi Coast, including connections to Positano and Amalfi, although direct routes from Naples to Amalfi are not available.
- Capitan Morgan – Offers various routes along the Amalfi Coast, including connections to Capri and Ischia, providing another option for travelers seeking to explore the area by sea.
- Hydrofoils – For a faster option, consider taking a hydrofoil service, which can significantly reduce travel time between destinations like Naples, Sorrento, and the Amalfi Coast.
Ferry services typically operate from late March to October, with schedules varying by season, so it’s advisable to check in advance and book your tickets, especially during peak tourist months.
Arriving by boat: Things to consider
Arriving by boat in the Amalfi towns presents a unique challenge due to the steep terrain and narrow streets that characterize the region. Once you disembark at the port, you are often met with a series of steps and inclines that can make moving luggage upward quite difficult, especially if you have larger bags or are traveling with mobility limitations.
Here are some options to consider for getting to your hotel from the ferry dock.
- Many hotels offer complimentary shuttles so I would contact your hotel to see if being picked up at the ferry dock is an option.
- Luggage porters is another option where they will whisk your luggage away to your hotel for you. Always negotiate the price first before committing. You will find this service especially in Positano as there are no cars accessible from the ferry dock. The luggage porter will only take your luggage and not you to the hotel something to keep that in mind.
- Taxi: Some towns will have roads close to the ferry dock and this may be a great option to get you to your hotel without lugging your luggage up a steep hill. The cost will likely be around €20 euro but definitely worth it in my opinion.
Driving Options:
Driving along the Amalfi Coast is a breathtaking but challenging experience, offering stunning views of dramatic cliffs and picturesque towns while navigating narrow, winding roads with heavy traffic and numerous obstacles. Drive times can vary depending on the time of year as there is one road that services the Amalfi towns. Driving is also very pricey unless taking a bus. Here are some options:
Taking the Bus:
You can take a bus from Sorrento or Salerno to the Amalfi towns, including Amalfi and Positano. The SITA bus service operates regular routes between Sorrento and these destinations. Tickets can be purchased at ticket booths near the Sorrento or Salerno train station. Buses depart frequently, making it a convenient and affordable option to explore the beautiful Amalfi Coast.
For a detailed schedule you can find it here: https://www.positano.com/en/bus-schedule
Hire a Private Driver:
Hiring a private driver is costly but will give you the flexibility and reassurance of timing according to your schedule. It will be quicker to get to your destination as there will not be stops along the way. I would highly recommend using Coast Drivers for your shuttling needs. They were fairly priced compared to other companies, arrived early to pick us up and very professional. We used them for a drive from Amalfi to Naples train station. The cost was €160 Euro.
Taxi: Taxi service is also available throughout Amalfi. This can be an expensive way of travelling between towns. Always ask the price before committing and make sure that they turn the meter on.
Where To Stay:
There are so many beautiful hotels along the Amalfi Coast to choose from. If you are planning on visiting the Amalfi coast in the summer months I would highly recommend finding a hotel located directly on the Mediterranean sea with access to the beach or even better search hotels that offer a beach club. The summer days can be very hot and there is nothing more refreshing than floating in the sea.
For researching hotels I love to use Booking.com. They offer reviews, pictures, easy booking and great for comparing hotels, and pricing. I still prefer to book the hotel directly through the hotel website if possible for ease of making changes if necessary.
Here are some hotels that we stayed and can recommend:
- The Grand Hotel Ambasciatori (Sorrento): Located in Sorrento approximately a 10 minute walk the the city center. This 5-star luxury hotel is located directly on the sea and offers a beach club with drinks, and dining. There is also a gorgeous pool and bar located on the top level. The restaurant Ambassador is set outside perched above the sea with views of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. The food and service is impeccable and if you are looking for a romantic Amalfi setting this is the place to stay!
- Hotel Villa Yiara: (Positano) Hotel Villa Yiara, located in the picturesque town of Positano, is an adults-only retreat set within an 18th-century building that offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Positano. Although it is not located directly on the sea it has immaculate accommodations, fairly priced for Positano, and the breakfast is included. The breakfast is incredible and fit for a king and queen! I would say that it is more like a bed & breakfast than a hotel. Think small and quaint.
- Hotel Miramalfi: (Amalfi) A stunning cliffside 5-star hotel located in Amalfi, with direct access to the sea. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. With its contemporary design that reflects the vibrant colours and shapes of the surrounding landscape, the hotel features elegantly appointed rooms, many of which come with private balconies overlooking the water. The staff and service here is impeccable. We absolutely loved our stay here because of the wonderful people staff, they treated us like royalty! Especially memorable, was sitting on a lounge chair by the sea, and the staff would bring us complimentary waters, cool towels for our face, bocconcini tomato appetizers, watermelon cocktails and the best yet, lemon gelato! What a memorable stay!
Foods & Drinks To Try In Amalfi:
Oh the beautiful foods of Italy! The food is romantic and made with love. There are so many foods to try and likely not enough days. First and at the top of the list will be the olive oil (any brand), the local wines and cheese. They are first on this list for must try foods and need to be eaten every day you are visiting Italy. lol
Here is a list of foods & drinks unique to the Amalfi coast that you may want to consider trying during your stay.
- Limoncello – This famous lemon liqueur is made from the region’s unique “sfusato amalfitano” lemons and is a refreshing digestif.
- Delizia al Limone – A delightful dessert consisting of sponge cake soaked in limoncello and topped with lemon cream, perfect for warm summer nights.
- Spaghetti alle Vongole – A classic dish featuring spaghetti with fresh clams, often prepared with a light sauce of garlic, olive oil, and parsley.
- Stuffed Zucchini Flowers – Typically filled with mozzarella cheese and sometimes anchovies, then deep-fried to perfection.
- Eggplant Parmesean – This dish features layers of thinly sliced, lightly fried eggplant, tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- Tagliolini al Limone – A fresh pasta dish dressed with a light lemon sauce, capturing the essence of the Amalfi Coast’s citrus flavors.
- Insalata Caprese – Caprese salad, known as Insalata Caprese, originates from the island of Capri. This iconic dish features fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, representing the colors of the Italian flag.
- Aperol Spritz – Aperol Spritz is a popular Italian cocktail known for its refreshing and bittersweet flavor. It is made with three main ingredients: Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water. The classic ratio is 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part soda water, typically served over ice in a wine glass and garnished with a slice of orange.
- Hugo Spritz – (This was my most favourite cocktail) A refreshing Italian cocktail that originated in the South Tyrol region. It is a delightful variation of the classic spritz, combining Prosecco, elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain), soda water, and fresh mint leaves.
- Scialatielli – A handmade pasta that is thicker than traditional spaghetti, often served with seafood or vegetables.
- Torta Caprese – The signature dessert from Capri is called Torta Caprese. This flourless chocolate cake is made primarily with dark chocolate and almonds, resulting in a rich and moist texture
Things To Do In Amalfi:
*Tip: If you are visiting during the hot summer months, be cautious of over-booking yourself as it is so hot that you may have just wished you stayed floating in the sea!
- Visit Pompeii – Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which was preserved under volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. It attracts millions of visitors each year and offers a glimpse into ancient Roman life.
- Visit Capri – Visiting Capri is like stepping into a dream, where stunning natural beauty meets rich history and vibrant culture. The island offers a unique blend of experiences, from exploring ancient Roman ruins at Villa Jovis to indulging in local culinary delights like Caprese salad and limoncello. You can take a scenic boat tour around the island, marvel at the enchanting Blue Grotto. You can reach Capri from Naples, Sorrento, Positano and Amalfi. Check out Ferryhopper.com for schedules, ticketing and more information.
- Furore Fjord – A hidden gem. The fjord is known for its breathtaking scenery, with dramatic cliffs rising above the water and a charming beach nestled at the base. The area is often described as one of the most beautiful spots on the Amalfi Coast.
- Explore Positano – Known for its stunning cliffside views and colorful buildings, Positano is perfect for leisurely strolls, shopping, and enjoying beach time. The picturesque streets are filled with boutiques and cafe.
- Discover Amalfi Town – Visit the historic Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Sant’Andrea) and explore the charming streets filled with shops and eateries. Amalfi is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area.
Lemon, Olive Oil and Wine Tasting Tour With Lunch – Visit the La Masseria family’s home and working farm for the ultimate farm to table experience. Learn how lemons are grown, and how olives are picked and more. Finish the tour with the La Masseria family inviting you into their home for a delicious homemade using all of the ingredients from their farm.
- Amalfi Coast Boat and Snorkeling Tour – Take a small group boat ride and stop at private beaches, snorkel or float and enjoy cocktails for this half day excursion on the water.
- Visit Ravello – Known for its beautiful gardens, stunning views and hand crafted pottery
- Stay in Ischia – Ischia is a volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, known for its lush landscapes, thermal springs, and charming towns, offering a blend of relaxation and cultural experiences. Often referred to as “the green island,” Ischia features beautiful beaches, historic sites like the Aragonese Castle, and a vibrant local atmosphere, making it a less commercialized yet authentic alternative to nearby Capri. It is also know for their spa resorts such as: Mezzatorre Hotel & Thermal Spa, Albergo Della Regina Isabella, and San Montano Resort & Spa.
*Tip: The quickest way to get to Ischia is from Sorrento. The boat ferry will take approximately 50 minutes. You can also access Ischia from Naples, Italy. That journey will take approximately 1.5 hours. Use ferryhopper.com for up to date schedules, and ticketing.
La Dolce Vita!
The phrase that comes to mind when thinking of the Amalfi coast is La Dolce Vita! La dolce vita is an Italian phrase that translates to “the sweet life.” It embodies the idea of living life to the fullest, savouring each moment, and enjoying the pleasures of life, such as good food, love, and beauty. A trip to the Amalfi coast is a one of a kind experience that will be sure to fill you with happiness and wonderful memories. I would say its a bucket list trip for sure and hope you can get there one day soon!
I hope that you found my article to be helpful for planning a visit to the Amalfi coast. I would love to help more. Ask me a question or drop me a line.
Thank you for reading my blog, I appreciate your view!
Happy Planning, sweet travels, and La Dolce Vita!
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We love visiting the Italian coast in September-October for the mild weather and fewer crowds. I love the look of the hotels directly overlooking the sea.
I think that would be the ideal time for a visit to Amalfi! Thank you for writing!
I loved the 4 days we spent at Amalfi coast, would love to go back and explore some of the smaller towns and villages.
Yes I agree with you! Next time visit the smaller towns or even Ischia looks so beautiful 😊 Thank you for writing