The Amalfi Coast, located in southern Italy, is a highly sought-after destination for travellers from around the globe.
Based on thorough research and an unforgettable visit last summer, I’ve gathered essential insights and tips to help you prepare for your trip to this lovely part of Italy.
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1. Early Hotel Reservations Are a Must
When planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, one of the first and most important steps is to book your accommodation well in advance.
The coast spans approximately 50 kilometres, and while it’s dotted with picturesque towns, the number of available hotels is limited.
The popularity of this destination means that hotels fill up quickly, especially during the peak tourist season.
It’s advisable to make reservations several months ahead to ensure you secure a place that meets your preferences and budget.
This proactive approach guarantees a place to stay and provides more options and potentially better rates.
Check out the hotels I recommend in my guide on where to stay on the Amalfi Coast.
2. Reconsider Renting a Car
While driving along the Amalfi Coast might seem appealing, the reality is quite different. The coastal roads are notoriously narrow, winding, and often congested.
Traffic can be intense, especially during summer, leading to long delays and elevated stress levels.
Additionally, parking is scarce and expensive in the main towns. To get a true sense of what driving is like, a quick search for “Amalfi Coast traffic” on YouTube can provide a vivid picture:
The hassle of navigating these challenging roads outweighs the benefits for most travellers.
3. Opt for Ferries Over Cars and Buses
Given the traffic issues, the ferry is a more pleasant and practical way to explore the Amalfi Coast.
Numerous ferry companies operate routes between the coastal towns, effectively serving as a reliable mode of public transportation.
Travelling by ferry avoids the traffic and offers spectacular views of the coastline from the sea.
The experience of gliding over the turquoise waters with the dramatic cliffs and charming villages as a backdrop is genuinely unforgettable.
Ferries run frequently, making hopping from one town to another easy.
I used a company called Travelmar quite a few times.
4. Book Restaurants in Advance
The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its culinary delights, from fresh seafood to traditional Italian dishes. However, the towns along the coast and the number of dining establishments are relatively small.
Popular tourist towns like Amalfi and Positano attract large crowds, and the best restaurants are often fully booked.
A few of my favourite restaurants in Amalfi Town (where I stayed) are:
- Taverna degli Apostoli
- Ristorante L’Abside
- Pizza Express (fantastic takeaway pizza)
To avoid disappointment and make sure you get to enjoy the local cuisine, it’s wise to make restaurant reservations ahead of your visit.
- This tip is especially crucial during peak seasons when demand is at its highest.
5. Alternative Travel Route: Rome to Salerno
Many travellers assume that Naples is the only gateway to the Amalfi Coast. However, an alternative route can be more convenient and less crowded.
You can take a high-speed train from Rome to Salerno, which takes around 2 hours:
Salerno is well-connected to the Amalfi Coast by ferry and bus services. This route can be a more pleasant and efficient way to reach your destination, bypassing the often chaotic Naples traffic.
For booking train tickets across Europe, I recommend using this booking platform.
6. Consider Sorrento as Your Base
While Sorrento is technically not part of the Amalfi Coast, it’s a fantastic base for exploring the region.
Sorrento offers several advantages, including a broader range of accommodations at more affordable prices than the smaller towns on the coast.
The town itself is larger, providing more amenities and a lively atmosphere. Sorrento’s location also makes it a convenient starting point for day trips to the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Pompeii.
The town has excellent ferry and bus connections, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas without needing a car.
By planning ahead, making necessary reservations, and choosing the best modes of transportation, you can get a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Positano, the historic sites of Amalfi, or the tranquil gardens of Ravello, the Amalfi Coast promises an unforgettable experience.
Read all my Amalfi Coast travel guides.
Travel ressources & websites I use all the time 👇
• Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay
• GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation
• NordVPN is the only VPN I've ever needed for travel (it just works, everywhere)
• Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers
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