Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling to the Amalfi Coast: Ultimate Guide 2024

Planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast but don’t know much about the region? Where is it located? How to get around? Where to stay? I lived in the Amalfi Coast for 4 months, and in this article, I’ll share all the essential information you need to know for your visit.

Where is Amalfi Coast?

The Amalfi Coast is located in southern Italy, near Naples, in the Campania region. It is made up of 12 picturesque towns: Amalfi, Atrani, Cetara, Conca dei Marini, Furore, Maiori, Minori, Positano, Praiano, Ravello, Scala, and Vietri Sul Mare. The most popular towns to visit are Positano, Amalfi, and Sorrento, each with its unique charm, colorful houses, stunning beaches, and historic cathedrals.

How to Get to the Amalfi Coast

Where to Fly to Visit the Amalfi Coast

How to Get to the Amalfi Coast

If you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, flying into Naples is one of the easiest and fastest ways to reach the region. The nearest airport to the Amalfi Coast is the new Salerno airport, but Naples offers more flight connections, making it a better choice for most travelers. You can find affordable flights on Skyscanner or Kiwi for the best deals on flights to Naples.

From Naples, you have two main options: you can head to Sorrento, as most tourists do, or opt for Salerno at the other end of the Amalfi Coast. I highly recommend choosing Salerno—it’s less touristy, more affordable, and offers easy access to the rest of the coast. Plus, getting around from this city is very convenient, allowing you to explore the Amalfi Coast with more freedom.

How to Get from Naples Airport to the Train Station

To get from Naples Airport to the city center, you have two options. The bus is the cheapest option, costing around 5 EUR, and the journey takes about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, which typically costs between 15 and 20 EUR, although some taxi drivers may pick up additional passengers and offer the same fare as the bus (around 5 EUR per person).

How to Get from Naples to Salerno

To travel from Naples to Salerno, take a direct train, which takes around 40 minutes and costs approximately 5 EUR. Be sure to select a direct train to avoid transfers. You can check train schedules and even buy tickets online through various websites such as Omio or Trenitalia.

How to Get Around the Amalfi Coast

Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose to rent a car or scooter, or rely on public transportation.

Public Transport on the Amalfi Coast

There’s a misconception that public transport doesn’t exist in southern Italy, but that’s far from the truth. During my four months living on the Amalfi Coast, specifically in Salerno, I used public transport regularly. While it can experience delays, especially during peak season, this is mainly due to heavy traffic. Keep in mind that even if you rent a car, you’ll likely get stuck in traffic, losing valuable time. Public transportation offers a more efficient way to move around the coast, helping you avoid the frustrations of driving and parking.

SITA SUD Buses on the Amalfi Coast

To get around the Amalfi Coast, you can use the SITA SUD buses, which are a convenient and affordable option. You can check schedules and stops on their official website or use Google Maps for real-time updates on routes and bus stops. Tickets are available for purchase at tabaccherias (such as those at train stations) or through the UNICO Campania app, making it easy to plan your journey. Using the bus system is an excellent way to explore the Amalfi Coast without the hassle of traffic or parking.

Amalfi Coast by Ferry

I recommend purchasing a ticket that allows you using both Travelmar ferry and unlimited buses for the entire day. It should cost around 15 EUR and will let you travel round trip by ferry from Salerno to Positano. Alternatively, you can take the ferry one way and return by bus, stopping at as many villages as you like along the way. You can find more information about ticket types on this website, and tickets can be purchased at SITA sales points.

Taking the ferry from Salerno to Positano is a fantastic way to admire the coast from the sea. The ferry also stops in Amalfi and passes by other coastal towns, offering incredible views. It is also one of the fastest ways to travel from Salerno to Positano, especially during peak season.

Costa Amalfitana by Car or Motorcycle

Renting a car to travel around Amalfi Coast can be a good idea if you’re visiting outside the high season, as you’ll avoid heavy traffic and the struggle to find parking. However, during peak season, traffic jams are common, and parking can be limited and expensive. If you prefer not to rely on public transport, renting a motorcycle is a better option. It’s easier to navigate the narrow roads and offers more flexibility, allowing you to explore the coast without the hassle of parking.

Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast?

Most tourists choose to stay in Sorrento, Positano, or Amalfi when visiting the Amalfi Coast. However, I highly recommend staying in Salerno for your Amalfi Coast trip. Although it is often overlooked by tourists, Salerno is the best base for exploring the region. It’s also much more affordable than other towns. Be sure to check out our article on the best restaurants in Salerno.

The Best Time to Visit Amalfi Coast

Positano Beach, Amalfi Coast — Positano Beach

The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is just before or after the peak season. May, June, and September offer perfect weather for swimming in the sea, reasonable accommodation prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the coast. During the high season, which runs from July to August, there’s heavy traffic, making it difficult to explore the area, and the temperatures can be too high for comfortable sightseeing. I personally visited from August to December, and I found that September is the ideal month to travel to the Amalfi Coast. The weather is still warm enough for a swim, but not too hot for strolling around and exploring all day long.

That being said, there is really no bad time to visit the Amalfi Coast. Even in the winter months, the region has its charm. While some tourist attractions may be quieter, the mild climate and stunning landscapes make it a beautiful destination year-round. To better prepare for your trip, check out our article about traveling to the Amalfi Coast during the winter season.

Tips for Your Trip

To wrap up, here are some tips for your trip to the Amalfi Coast, whether you’re spending one day or more:

Download the UNICO Campania app – you’ll be able to buy tickets online (last time I went, it wasn’t possible to buy all-day tickets and ferry tickets through the app).
Download the Omio or Trenitalia apps – these will let you buy train tickets online as well.
Avoid traveling during the high season – that’s when prices go up, and the roads get packed with cars and buses. You’ll waste too much time getting from one place to another.
Avoid eating at overly touristy restaurants that have menus in English. Most of them charge high prices for the quality they offer.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your time on the Amalfi Coast and enjoy it without the crowds.