The spellbinding scenery of the Amalfi Coast has been the backdrop for vacationing VIPs since Roman emperors basked on its shores. Today’s global glitterati still anchor their yachts below the UNESCO-listed stretch of cliffs, but most visitors arrive via the winding coastal highway that links Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello—the headliners of tours by land and sea. Village hopping is one of the most popular things to do on the Amalfi Coast, along with visiting Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius, cruising to the island of Capri, and exploring Sorrento’s old town.
Summer brings punishing heat and crowds to the Amalfi Coast, but it also brings star events. July and August are packed with festivals, culminating with the Festa dell’Assunta religious feast in mid-August. The Ravello Music Festival holds classical music concerts in the Villa Rufolo, June–October. Visit in spring and early fall for milder weather and warm water—time your visit for the last Saturday in September, when the Sagra del Pesce fish festival marks the end of high season.
The Amalfi Coast is not directly accessible by public transport. From Naples, you can take the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento, and then buses along the coast. Driving provides spectacular views, but also extreme traffic in the high season—plus, towns are sometimes off-limits to non-resident motorists. Plan ahead to take ferries linking Naples, Sorrento, and Salerno with Positano or the town of Amalfi—and even the islands of Capri or Ischia from April to October. Bikes and vespas are options, too.
Positano and Amalfi are, without a doubt, jewels of the Amalfi Coast. But travelers exploring further afield will find more than just these towns. Explore the traditional ceramic studios in Maiori and Vietri sul Mare, and stop in Ravello to see its Duomo and cliffside Villa Rufolo. Don’t miss the Path of the Gods trail, which leads hikers from cliff-top Pianillo down to beachside Positano.
Local Currency Euro (€) | Time Zone CEST (UTC +1) | Country Code +39 | Language(s) Italian | Attractions 30 | Tours 2,157 | Reviews 42,061 |
The Amalfi Coast has some of Italy’s top scenery. It’s known for its steep coastal cliffs that rise directly from the Mediterranean Sea. The waterfront is dotted with colorful fishing villages that are now chic resort towns that attract the international jet set.
...MorePositano is considered the most beautiful town along the Amalfi Coast, but the entire stretch of coastline between the villages of Nerano and Vietri sul Mare isn’t to be missed. The top scenic attractions are along the coast between Positano and Amalfi, including Ravello, Furore Fjord, and Emerald Grotto.
...MoreYou can cover the most famous Amalfi Coast towns in a single day, but you need at least two more to fully explore the picturesque coastline. Spend one day visiting Amalfi and Ravello, another in Positano, and a third relaxing on the beaches or hiking the Path of the Gods.
...MoreYes, there is plenty to do on the Amalfi Coast—known more for its scenery than cultural treasures. Tourist pastimes include strolling through the charming villages and basking on the beach rather than touring landmarks. This relaxed pace is part of the coastline’s charm and its “la dolce vita” style.
...MoreIf you are looking for luxury lodgings and a chic atmosphere, Positano is the most exclusive (and expensive) town on the coast. Amalfi has more affordable accommodations and a port for easier logistics. For the widest range of places to stay plus train, bus, and ferry connections, Sorrento is ideal.
...MoreThe Amalfi Coast can be uncomfortably hot and crowded in summer, so spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) are the best months to visit. Most hotels, restaurants, and other businesses shutter for winter, so avoid visiting between November and March.
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