Things to Do in Amalfi Coast

About Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast crams ancient villages, lemon groves, and cliff-hugging roads into one stretch of Italian shoreline. Villages stack down limestone cliffs to the Tyrrhenian Sea, connected by narrow roads that wind past terraced vineyards centuries old. The air smells like lemons and salt. Each town is different. Positano's pastel houses tumble toward the water in chaotic layers. Amalfi has a cathedral and a maritime history. Ravello sits higher up—the gardens there look out over everything. The roads are tight and dramatic. They curve around cliffs and drop into coves that most people miss. Vineyards hang on slopes that shouldn't support anything. This is Italian coastal living at its best. Sunsets turn the sky orange and pink. You can sit on a terrace with limoncello and stare at the water for hours. The place has drawn artists for decades. The views explain why. When you're up in Ravello or down by the shore in Positano, the combination of cliffs, sea, and stacked architecture creates something you won't forget.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Book SITA bus tickets in advance via app or tobacco shops, as routes fill quickly in summer. Rent scooters only if experienced with steep, narrow roads. Ferry connections between coastal towns (April-October) offer scenic alternatives to crowded buses and avoid traffic delays.

Money: Carry cash as many small restaurants and shops don't accept cards. ATMs are limited in smaller villages like Furore. Budget €40-60 daily for meals, €15-25 for bus/ferry transport. Tipping 10% at restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting churches—covered shoulders and knees required. Avoid loud conversations in restaurants during riposo (2-4 PM). Don't block narrow walkways for photos. Greet shop owners with 'Buongiorno' before browsing; it's considered polite and essential.

Food Safety: Seek restaurants where locals eat, avoiding tourist-trap establishments near major viewpoints. Try seafood at coastal restaurants with high turnover. Drink tap water confidently—it's safe and high quality. Sample local specialties like sfogliatelle and fresh mozzarella from morning markets.

When to Visit

The Amalfi Coast's Mediterranean climate offers distinct seasonal experiences. Spring (April-May) brings mild temperatures (18-23°C), moderate rainfall (60-80mm monthly), and 40% lower accommodation costs than peak season. Gardens bloom with wisteria and bougainvillea, while tourist crowds remain manageable. Summer (June-August) delivers hot, dry weather (25-30°C), minimal rainfall (20-40mm), but peak pricing with hotels charging 60-80% premiums. Expect crowded attractions and fully booked restaurants requiring advance reservations. Early autumn (September-October) offers the sweet spot—warm seas (22-24°C), comfortable temperatures (20-25°C), light rainfall (70-100mm), and 30% reduced accommodation costs. The grape harvest season brings local festivals and optimal hiking conditions. Winter (November-March) sees cooler temperatures (12-16°C), increased rainfall (100-150mm monthly), and significantly reduced tourist services, though luxury hotels offer 50-60% discounts. Many restaurants and attractions close entirely. Notable events include Amalfi's Regata Storica (first weekend in June) and Ravello Festival (July-September). Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) suit most travelers seeking the perfect balance of weather, pricing, and real feels without overwhelming crowds.