We believe in great roads and the cars that suit them. But we would not drive the Amalfi Coast ourselves in high summer, and we do not suggest you do.
The coastal road that links Positano, Amalfi and the villages between is a feat of engineering: narrow and winding, cut into the cliffs above the sea. In season it is congested with buses, scooters and visitors, and parking in the villages is scarce and expensive. The driver misses the view, which is the whole point.
Arrive with a driver
From Naples, allow roughly 75 minutes to two hours by road, depending on your destination and traffic. A local driver knows the road's rhythms, including where buses meet on bends and when to leave to miss the queues. You can watch the coast unfold on the sea side.
Travel by sea
In season, boats link the main towns and are often quicker than the road. A private boat for a day is one of the great pleasures of the coast. You can visit coves, grottoes and beach restaurants reachable only from the water, then come home at sunset with the villages lit above you.
Go up
The coast is not only about the sea. Ravello, high above Amalfi, has two of Italy's loveliest gardens at Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone. Its belvedere, lined with marble busts, looks out over the whole gulf. On foot, the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) follows the high terraces between Agerola and Nocelle. Start early, wear proper shoes and carry water.
When to go
May, June, September and October are the sweet spot. Many hotels close in winter, and July and August bring the heaviest crowds.
The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This guide is based on research, and seasonal transport schedules change every year.
This story is based on research, including the sources listed below, rather than a first-hand visit. Prestagio does not accept payment for coverage. Spotted something out of date? Suggest a correction.
Sources
- Costiera Amalfitana (UNESCO World Heritage List) · UNESCO
- Amalfi Coast · Wikipedia
