Amalfi Coast Travel Tips: Everything You Need To Know

Essential Amalfi Coast travel tips: where to stay, what to eat, how to get around, and how to find English-speaking doctors if needed.

April 25, 2025

Lauren Stuttaford

Travel

Planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast? You’re in for a dream vacation. With its dramatic cliffs, charming seaside towns, lemon-scented breezes, and colorful houses stacked like staircases, the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most iconic (and beautiful) destinations. But it’s also famously hilly, a bit pricey, and very popular — so planning ahead helps a lot.

These Amalfi Coast travel tips will help you avoid common mistakes, save money, and enjoy your trip with less stress — whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with the whole family.

Getting From the Airport to the Amalfi Coast

You’ll most likely arrive at Naples International Airport (NAP), which is the closest airport to the Amalfi Coast. From there, the journey to towns like Positano, Amalfi, or Ravello takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic and your mode of transport.

Your Main Options:

Train + Bus: Take a train from Naples to Salerno or Sorrento, then hop on a SITA bus to your town. It’s scenic and budget-friendly, but not ideal with heavy luggage or during peak travel times.
Private Transfers: The easiest and most comfortable way — especially if you’re jet-lagged or arriving late. Not cheap, but totally worth it for a smooth start.
Shuttle Services: Shared transfers offer a nice middle ground — less expensive than private cars but more direct than public transport.
Car Rental: Only if you’re confident driving along winding, narrow coastal roads with lots of curves and scooters zipping by.

Just arrived and not feeling your best? Find an English-speaking doctor now.

Getting Around the Amalfi Coast

Once you’ve arrived, getting around the Amalfi Coast is part of the fun — and the challenge.

Ferries: The most relaxing and scenic option. In high season, ferries run frequently between Positano, Amalfi, Capri, Salerno, and Sorrento. Sit back, enjoy the view, and skip the road traffic.
SITA Buses: SITA buses are inexpensive and go almost everywhere, but can get very crowded. Try to travel early in the day and always validate your ticket!
Taxis & Private Drivers: More expensive, but convenient. Great for late-night travel or if you want to avoid waiting for buses.
Scooters: Iconic and adventurous. Only rent if you’re confident on two wheels.
Walking: Expect lots of stairs, steep paths, and uneven cobblestones. Pack comfy shoes!

Must-Try Foods & Where to Eat

The Amalfi Coast is a foodie’s dream. Think seafood, pasta, lemons, and gelato — served with a view.

What to Eat:

Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare: A thick, hand-cut pasta loaded with clams, mussels, shrimp, and more.
Delizia al Limone: A soft sponge cake filled with lemon cream. Light, sweet, and heavenly.
Fried Anchovies & Calamari: Best eaten fresh from a beach shack or seaside stand.
Pizza & Mozzarella di Bufala: This is Naples-adjacent, after all!
Granita al Limone: Crushed lemon ice — perfect for a hot afternoon.

Where to Eat:

Da Vincenzo (Positano): Great seafood and pasta, with a welcoming vibe.
Trattoria da Gemma (Amalfi): A classic spot for local dishes.
Babel Wine Bar (Ravello): Tucked away and charming.
Picnic Spots: Visit a market, grab focaccia, cheese, and fruit — and eat with a view.

Tried something a bit too adventurous? Get local medical help!

Top Things to Do & See

Beyond the views (which are unreal), here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei): One of the most stunning hikes in Europe. Wear real shoes, bring water, and pack snacks.
Villa Rufolo & Villa Cimbrone (Ravello): Beautiful gardens and jaw-dropping cliffside views.
Amalfi Cathedral: Historic and grand, right in the middle of Amalfi.
Grotta dello Smeraldo: A glowing sea cave you can access by boat or stairs.
Fiordo di Furore: A tiny beach tucked under a stone bridge — so picturesque.
Boat Trip to Capri: Spend a day exploring the island, the Blue Grotto, or just soaking up the sun.

Family-Friendly Tips

Yes, the Amalfi Coast can work for kids! You just need to plan ahead.

Stay Somewhere Flat: Minori, Maiori, and Amalfi are easier for strollers than stair-heavy Positano.
Choose Calm Beaches: Marina di Praia and Maiori Beach are gentle and family-friendly.
Take the Ferry: Kids love boat rides and ferries are a fun (and easy) way to get around.
Visit a Lemon Farm: Learn about lemons, drink lemonade, and buy fun souvenirs.
Pizza-Making Classes: Fun, tasty, and hands-on.

Traveling with little ones and need medical care? We’ve got you covered!

Choosing the Right Town to Stay In

Each town on the Amalfi Coast has its own charm. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Positano: Stunning and romantic — but lots of stairs and very touristy.
Amalfi: Central and convenient. A great base if you want to explore multiple towns.
Ravello: Quieter and elegant. Ideal for honeymoons and amazing views.
Praiano: More local and peaceful, with fewer crowds.
Minori & Maiori: Flatter streets, sandy beaches, and more budget-friendly.
Atrani: A hidden gem right next to Amalfi, perfect for a more authentic stay

When to Visit the Amalfi Coast

Season Breakdown:

Spring (April–June): Warm but not too hot, fewer crowds, and perfect for hiking.
Summer (July–August): Peak season. Everything’s open but packed and pricey.
Fall (September–October): Still sunny, calmer, and cheaper. A perfect sweet spot.
Winter (November–March): Very quiet. Some restaurants and hotels close, but the views remain.

Free & Low-Cost Activities

You don’t need to spend big to have a great time here:

Hike the Path of the Gods: Free and unforgettable.
Watch the Sunset in Ravello: Pure magic.
Explore Local Churches: Beautiful architecture and peaceful moments.
Wander the Streets: Getting “lost” in Positano or Amalfi is half the fun.
DIY Picnic: Grab market goodies and eat overlooking the sea.

Nightlife & Evening Fun

Nights on the Amalfi Coast can be relaxing or lively — your pick!

Sunset Aperitivo: Most beach clubs or rooftop bars offer an aperitivo hour.
Live Music in Ravello: Check out concerts in summer (some are free!).
Dinner by the Sea: Think candlelight, seafood, and gentle waves.
Beach Walks: The coast gets peaceful after sunset — ideal for a stroll.

Feeling off after your night out? Help is just a few taps away!

Safety & Common Tourist Scams

No list of Amalfi Coast travel tips would complete without the super important safety tips! Here’s how to stay safe and smart:

Watch for Pickpockets: Especially in crowded areas and public transport.
Clarify Taxi Rates: Always confirm before the ride.
Don’t Rush into Rentals: Whether it’s scooters, boats, or Airbnb — check reviews.
Wear Sensible Shoes: Stairs and cobblestones are everywhere.

What to Pack

Here’s a short list of must-haves:

Comfy Shoes: You’ll thank yourself later.
Swimsuit & Flip-Flops: Beach days are inevitable.
Hat, Sunglasses & Sunscreen: The sun here is no joke.
Light Layers: Evenings can get breezy.
Portable Fan or Cooling Towel: Summer heat is real!
Daypack: For water, snacks, and souvenirs.

The Amalfi Coast is all about the moments — boat rides, fresh lemon gelato, sunset views, and spontaneous hikes. With these Amalfi Coast travel tips, you’ll know what to expect, how to prepare, and how to stay safe (and healthy) while making memories that last a lifetime.