Amalfi Coast: The Complete Guide
The Amalfi Coast has always been steeped in mythology. The Greeks, enchanted by the region’s expansive rocky coastline and dramatic mountains, wove especially tender legends around it. According to one such legend, Hercules fell deeply in love with a captivating nymph named Amalfi. When she died prematurely, Hercules was heartbroken and searched for a burial place worthy of her memory. He found this place in what would eventually become the town of Amalfi, destined to rise as a notable power. As one of his twelve labors, Hercules stole a tree from the Garden of the Hesperides and planted it at her final resting place. This tree bore the fruit known today as Amalfi lemons, symbolizing the beginning of the many iconic associations that would be drawn from this magical and evocative place.
Visiting Amalfi Coast for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Amalfi Coast on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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8 Best places to See in Amalfi Coast
This complete guide to Amalfi Coast not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Amalfi Coast and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Amalfi
Visiting Amalfi
Ravello
Visiting Ravello
Furore Fjord
Visiting Furore Fjord
Hiking the Path of the Gods: Complete Guide & Maps
Visiting Hiking the Path of the Gods: Complete Guide & Maps
Positano
Visiting Positano
Vietri sul Mare
Visiting Vietri sul Mare
Mount Vesuvius
Location: Mount Vesuvius, Ottaviano, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy | Hours: January – February: 9 am – 3 pm. March: 9 am – 4 pm. April, May & June: 9 am – 5 pm. July – August: 9 am – 6 pm. September: 9 am – 5 pm. October: 9 am – 4 pm. November – December: 9 am – 3 pm. | Distance: 25.6km
Visiting Mount Vesuvius
Paestum
Location: Paestum, SA, Italy | Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. | Price: €6 | Distance: 41.5km
Visiting Paestum
Best Time to Visit Amalfi Coast
Summer is undoubtedly the most popular and most expensive time to visit the Amalfi Coast. Unfortunately, the region becomes extremely crowded, and the temperatures can soar above 32°C (90°F), creating an uncomfortable atmosphere. August is particularly challenging, as vacationing Italians add to the crowds, and many businesses and tourist sites close. The situation reaches its peak on August 15 during Ferragosto, the Italian summer solstice festival.
For a more enjoyable experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (September and October, March to early June) when the weather is pleasant, prices are lower after August 15, and the tourist numbers have decreased. During this time, you’ll mostly encounter locals, providing a more authentic experience.
The off-season (November to March) also offers good deals, with prices approximately 30% lower than during peak season. Although it will be too cold for summer attire, the Amalfi Coast’s villages and hiking trails remain beautiful. However, be aware that the region quiets down significantly in the colder months, with reduced public transit and restaurant services. Many hotels close until Easter, so while you can find cheaper accommodations, your options will be more limited.
Average Temperatures in Amalfi Coast
- January 14°C 58°F 20
- February 15°C 59°F 17
- March 17°C 62°F 14
- April 21°C 70°F 9
- May 25°C 77°F 9
- June 32°C 89°F 5
- July 34°C 94°F 2
- August 33°C 91°F 3
- September 29°C 84°F 13
- October 25°C 76°F 17
- November 19°C 67°F 28
- December 16°C 60°F 17
How to get to Amalfi Coast
By Train
Apart from Sorrento and Vietri sul Mare, Italy’s train system does not reach this mountainous coast. However, the region is well-served by frequent buses and an excellent fleet of speedy ferries that connect the coastal cities and provide easy access from Naples.
Bus and Ferry
At just €1.30 for a single-ride ticket (compared to €30 a day for a car rental plus €1.80/L for petrol), it’s a budget-friendly option that’s hard to ignore. With careful planning, the region’s extensive bus and ferry network can get you wherever you need to go, from coastal villages to mountain towns like Ravello and Agerola, the starting point for the Path of the Gods hike.
Amalfi, Sorrento, and Positano have the most ferry and bus connections. Ferries are the best option for traveling between coastal cities because they are faster and less crowded than buses. In either case, be sure to check transport schedules carefully. During the shoulder and off-seasons, services are drastically reduced, and during peak season, buses are often too packed to stop. Knowing when the next bus or ferry is coming can be very helpful.
You can buy bus tickets at tobacconists, directly onboard, or through the UnicoCampania app, which also provides real-time bus schedules and online ticket purchases. For ferries, booking tickets online at sites like Traghetti.com is recommended to avoid long queues at the port.