Amalfi coast: How to get there, hotels, holiday destinations, what to see

The Amalfi Coast, located in southern Italy, is one of the most beautiful and renowned coastal regions in the world. With its dramatic cliffs, picturesque villages, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, it’s a dream destination for many travelers. This guide will provide detailed information on how to get to the Amalfi Coast, where to stay, tips for visiting nearby towns, and recommendations for excursions in the area.

How to Get to the Amalfi Coast located in Italy

Amalfi Coast Geographical Location

The Amalfi Coast is a stretch of coastline along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, in the Campania region. It extends from the Gulf of Naples to the Gulf of Salerno and includes famous towns such as Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.

Amalfi Coast, Italy: Hotels, Best towns & Places to Stay map, reviews, facilities and prices >>

Travel Amalfi Coast By Air

The closest major airport to the Amalfi Coast is Naples International Airport (NAP), located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) away.

From Europe: Many European cities offer direct flights to Naples, with flight times ranging from 1 to 3 hours.
From North America: Direct flights from North America to Naples are limited. Most travelers fly to Rome or another major European hub and then take a connecting flight to Naples.

Amalfi Coast By Train

Traveling by train is a convenient option for reaching the Amalfi Coast.

From Rome to Naples: High-speed trains such as Frecciarossa and Italo connect Rome to Naples in about 1 to 1.5 hours.
From Naples to Sorrento: From Naples, take the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento, which takes about 1 hour. Sorrento is a good starting point for exploring the Amalfi Coast.

Amalfi Coast By Car

Driving to the Amalfi Coast offers flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy scenic routes, but it can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads.

From Naples to Amalfi Coast: The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours via the A3 highway and SS163 coastal road. Be prepared for hairpin bends and heavy traffic, especially during peak season.

Amalfi Coast By Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable option for reaching the Amalfi Coast.

SITA Buses: SITA operates regular bus services from Naples and Salerno to various towns along the Amalfi Coast. The journey from Naples to Amalfi by bus takes approximately 2 hours.

Amalfi Coast By Ferry

Ferries offer a scenic and relaxing way to reach the Amalfi Coast.

From Naples to Amalfi Coast: Ferries and hydrofoils operate from Naples to Amalfi, Positano, and other coastal towns. The journey takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the destination.

Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to charming boutique inns and budget-friendly hostels.

Amalfi Coast Italy Best Hotels reviews, facilities and prices >>

Luxury Hotels Amalfi Coast

Le Sirenuse, Positano: A five-star hotel offering elegant rooms, stunning sea views, and a renowned restaurant. It’s located in the heart of Positano, making it perfect for exploring the town.
Belmond Hotel Caruso, Ravello: This luxurious hotel is set in a former 11th-century palace and offers breathtaking views, a beautiful infinity pool, and luxurious amenities.

Mid-Range Hotels Amalfi Coast

Hotel Marina Riviera, Amalfi: A charming hotel located on the seafront in Amalfi, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the coastline.
Palazzo Murat, Positano: A historic hotel set in a former 18th-century palace, offering beautifully decorated rooms and lush gardens.

Budget Options Amalfi Coast

Hostel Brikette, Positano: A popular budget option with dormitory and private rooms, offering a friendly atmosphere and stunning views of the coast.
A Scalinatella, Atrani: A family-run bed and breakfast offering affordable rooms and a convenient location near the beach and main square.

Unique Amalfi Coast Stays

Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa, Conca dei Marini: A former 17th-century monastery transformed into a luxurious hotel with stunning views, beautiful gardens, and an award-winning spa.
La Torre, Praiano: A charming boutique hotel set in a historic watchtower, offering unique rooms and panoramic views of the coastline.

What cities are included in the Amalfi Coast?

Positano

Positano is one of the most iconic and picturesque towns on the Amalfi Coast, known for its steep streets, pastel-colored houses, and beautiful beaches. Key attractions include:

Spiaggia Grande: The main beach in Positano, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching.
Church of Santa Maria Assunta: A beautiful church with a majolica-tiled dome and a Byzantine icon of the Black Madonna.
Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei): A stunning hiking trail offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the sea.
Shopping and Dining: Explore the narrow streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants offering delicious local cuisine.

Amalfi

Amalfi is a historic town with a rich maritime heritage, charming streets, and beautiful scenery. Highlights include:

Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi): A stunning cathedral with a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque.
Amalfi Paper Museum (Museo della Carta): Learn about the town’s papermaking history and see traditional paper-making techniques.
Atrani: A nearby village with a charming main square, beautiful beach, and historic churches.
Amalfi Lemon Tour: Discover the region’s famous lemon groves and taste locally made limoncello.

Ravello

Ravello is a hilltop town known for its stunning views, beautiful gardens, and historic villas. Key attractions include:

Villa Rufolo: A historic villa with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the coastline. It hosts the annual Ravello Festival, featuring music and cultural events.
Villa Cimbrone: Another historic villa with stunning gardens and the famous Terrace of Infinity, offering breathtaking views of the sea.
Ravello Cathedral (Duomo di Ravello): A beautiful cathedral with an impressive bronze door and a museum showcasing medieval artifacts.
Ravello Concert Society: Enjoy classical music concerts held in various historic venues around the town.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a lively town known for its beautiful views, charming streets, and proximity to the Amalfi Coast and Capri. Highlights include:

Piazza Tasso: The main square in Sorrento, surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Marina Grande: A picturesque fishing village with colorful houses, seafood restaurants, and a small beach.
Museo Correale di Terranova: A museum showcasing fine art, archaeological artifacts, and local crafts.
Day Trip to Capri: Take a ferry from Sorrento to the island of Capri and explore its stunning scenery, historic sites, and luxury shops.

Amalfi coast what to see and do there?

Capri

Capri is a beautiful island located just off the coast of Sorrento and is known for its stunning landscapes, upscale shops, and historic sites. Highlights include:

Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra): A famous sea cave with mesmerizing blue light. Take a boat tour to explore the cave.
Villa Jovis: The ruins of a Roman villa built by Emperor Tiberius, offering stunning views and a glimpse into ancient history.
Anacapri: A charming town located on the higher part of the island, known for its beautiful streets, churches, and shops.
Monte Solaro: Take a chairlift to the highest point on the island for breathtaking views of the sea and coastline.

Pompeii and Herculaneum

Visit the ancient Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, which were buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Key attractions include:

Pompeii Archaeological Site: Explore the well-preserved ruins of this ancient city, including houses, temples, and the famous amphitheater.
Herculaneum Archaeological Site: A smaller but equally fascinating site with well-preserved buildings, mosaics, and artifacts.
Mount Vesuvius: Hike to the crater of the volcano for stunning views of the Bay of Naples and the surrounding area.

Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei)

The Path of the Gods is a famous hiking trail offering some of the most breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast. The trail runs from Bomerano (a village in Agerola) to Nocelle (a hamlet of Positano) and is known for its dramatic scenery and panoramic vistas.

Trail Length: Approximately 7.8 kilometers (4.8 miles).
Difficulty: Moderate; the trail includes some steep sections and uneven terrain.
Highlights: Stunning views of the coastline, the Mediterranean Sea, and picturesque villages along the way.
Preparation: Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring water and snacks, and check the weather conditions before starting the hike.

Fiordo di Furore

The Fiordo di Furore is a hidden gem along the Amalfi Coast, known for its dramatic fjord-like gorge and picturesque beach. Highlights include:

Beach: A small, pebbly beach nestled between steep cliffs, offering a unique and secluded spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Fjord Views: The fjord itself is a stunning natural feature, and the bridge spanning it provides an excellent vantage point for photography.
Fishing Village: Explore the tiny, colorful fishing village of Furore, with its charming houses clinging to the cliffs.

Valle delle Ferriere

Valle delle Ferriere is a beautiful nature reserve located inland from Amalfi. It offers lush scenery, waterfalls, and rare flora. Highlights include:

Hiking Trails: Several trails lead through the reserve, offering opportunities to explore the rich vegetation and scenic landscapes.
Waterfalls: The reserve is home to a series of picturesque waterfalls, perfect for photography and a refreshing break.
Rare Plants: Discover unique plant species, including the rare “Woodwardia radicans” fern, which thrives in the humid environment.

Vietri sul Mare

Vietri sul Mare is a charming town known for its ceramics and beautiful coastline. Key attractions include:

Ceramics Workshops: Visit local workshops and shops to see traditional Vietri ceramics, famous for their vibrant colors and intricate designs.
Spiaggia della Crestarella: A beautiful beach offering crystal-clear waters and a relaxing atmosphere.
Church of San Giovanni Battista: A historic church with a stunning majolica-tiled dome, offering beautiful views of the town and sea.