Amalfi Coast Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Amalfi Coast.
Healthcare System
Italy has a high-quality public healthcare system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale - SSN) that also serves tourists. EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) receive free or reduced-cost emergency treatment. Non-EU visitors must pay for services but can claim reimbursement through travel insurance.
Hospitals
The main hospital serving the Amalfi Coast is Ospedale Costa d'Amalfi in Castiglione di Ravello, with emergency services and various departments. Larger facilities are available in Salerno (Ospedale San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona) and Sorrento. Smaller medical centers (Guardia Medica) operate in Amalfi, Positano, and other towns for non-emergency care. Private clinics are also available and often have shorter wait times.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (Farmacie) are widely available throughout the coast, marked by green crosses. Pharmacists are highly trained and can provide advice and over-the-counter medications for minor ailments. Many common medications require prescriptions in Italy that might be over-the-counter elsewhere. Pharmacies rotate weekend and night duty (turno); schedules are posted on pharmacy doors and local websites.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is strongly recommended for all visitors. EU citizens should carry their EHIC card but should still consider supplemental insurance for repatriation and private care. Non-EU visitors will need to pay upfront for medical services and should ensure their insurance covers emergency evacuation, as helicopter rescue may be necessary in remote coastal areas.
Healthcare Tips
- Carry a copy of your EHIC card or insurance documents at all times
- Keep a list of your medications and prescriptions in both English and Italian
- Pharmacies can treat minor injuries and ailments - consult them before seeking emergency care
- Bring sufficient prescription medications as specific brands may not be available locally
- Heat exhaustion and dehydration are common in summer - seek medical attention if symptoms are severe
- Save the location of the nearest hospital or medical center in your phone before traveling to remote villages
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur in crowded tourist areas, particularly during peak summer season. Thieves target distracted tourists at viewpoints, beaches, restaurants, and on crowded buses. Rental cars are sometimes broken into for visible valuables.
The SS163 Amalfi Coast road is one of the world's most dangerous yet beautiful drives. Extremely narrow roads with hairpin turns, no guardrails in sections, aggressive local drivers, tourist drivers unfamiliar with conditions, buses and trucks on narrow passages, and limited parking create significant accident risks.
The Amalfi Coast's steep terrain, numerous staircases, uneven ancient pathways, and cliff-edge trails pose fall risks. The famous Path of the Gods and other hiking trails can be treacherous, especially in wet conditions. Many towns have hundreds of steep steps between parking areas and accommodations.
Summer temperatures regularly exceed 30°C (86°F) with high humidity. Combined with physical exertion from climbing stairs and hiking, plus reflection from white buildings and limited shade in some areas, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are real risks, especially for elderly visitors and children.
Rocky coastline, strong currents in certain areas, boat traffic near swimming zones, jellyfish during certain periods, and sea urchins on rocks can pose risks. Some beaches have steep drop-offs and limited lifeguard coverage.
Some establishments charge inflated prices to tourists, add unexpected fees, or provide unclear pricing. This isn't violent crime but can significantly impact your budget and experience. Issues include excessive coperto (cover charges), unclear menu pricing, and inflated taxi fares.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Restaurants may present a tourist menu without prices, bring dishes you didn't order, charge per person for shared items, or add excessive coperto (cover charge) and service fees. Some places charge different prices for sitting versus standing, or add charges for bread you didn't request.
Always use official white taxis with meters and taxi signs on the roof, agree on fares before departure for fixed-price routes, ask your hotel to arrange transfers with reputable companies, use established apps or pre-booked services, and get written quotes. Official taxi rates are regulated; research typical fares beforehand.
Vendors sell low-quality limoncello or other products marketed as authentic Amalfi Coast specialties at inflated prices. Some shops sell counterfeit ceramics, leather goods, or other items claiming they're locally made when they're mass-produced imports.
Some beach clubs don't clearly display prices for umbrella and chair rentals, then charge excessive amounts. Others add mandatory food/beverage minimums not mentioned upfront, or charge separately for services assumed to be included.
Unofficial 'parking attendants' approach drivers and offer to help find parking for a fee, then either direct you to illegal spots where you'll be fined, or demand payment for public parking that should be free or cheaper. Some claim official parking is full when it isn't to direct you to expensive private lots they work with.
Private boat tours may promise specific stops, durations, or experiences that aren't delivered. Some charge extra fees for fuel, landing fees, or stops that should be included. Others operate without proper licenses or insurance.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Transportation Safety
- Use SITA buses instead of driving yourself - they're frequent, affordable, and drivers know the roads intimately
- Book bus tickets in advance during peak season and arrive early as buses fill quickly
- If you must drive, rent the smallest car available and consider comprehensive insurance with zero deductible
- Use ferries between coastal towns when possible - they're safer, less stressful, and offer beautiful views
- Never stop your car in prohibited areas on the coastal road - it's dangerous and you'll be fined heavily
- When using taxis, always agree on the fare before departure or ensure the meter is running
- Book private transfers through your accommodation for airport/station pickups to avoid scams
- Be extremely cautious as a pedestrian - sidewalks are narrow or nonexistent and drivers are aggressive
Accommodation Safety
- Confirm exact location and accessibility before booking - some hotels require climbing hundreds of steps with luggage
- Verify that your accommodation has air conditioning if visiting in summer (not all historic buildings do)
- Check reviews specifically mentioning safety, noise levels, and accessibility issues
- Ensure your room has secure locks and use the safe for valuables, passports, and extra cash
- Know the emergency exits and evacuation procedures, especially in hillside hotels
- Be cautious on balconies and terraces - railings may not meet modern safety standards
- Ask about porter services if you have mobility issues - stairs are unavoidable in most towns
Money and Valuables
- Carry only what you need daily; leave extra cash, cards, and passports in hotel safe
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours rather than standalone machines on streets
- Notify your bank of travel dates to avoid card blocks, and carry backup payment methods
- Keep small bills handy - many small vendors don't accept large notes or credit cards
- Photograph your important documents and email copies to yourself
- Use cross-body anti-theft bags and keep them in front in crowded areas
- Be discreet when accessing money or checking expensive phones in public
- Split cash and cards between different locations on your person and in luggage
Beach and Water Safety
- Wear water shoes or reef shoes to protect feet from sea urchins and sharp rocks
- Never dive into water without knowing the depth - many beaches have rocks just below surface
- Apply waterproof sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours
- Rent umbrellas and chairs at beach clubs for shade - direct sun is intense
- Keep valuables secured and never leave bags unattended on the beach
- Check for jellyfish warnings before swimming and rinse with seawater if stung
- Respect red flag warnings and don't swim if conditions are dangerous
- Stay hydrated and take breaks from sun exposure regularly
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
- Start hikes early (by 7-8am) to avoid midday heat and afternoon crowds
- Wear proper hiking shoes with good ankle support and grip - trails are rocky and steep
- Carry at least 2 liters of water per person, plus snacks and sun protection
- Download offline maps as cell service is unreliable on trails
- Tell your hotel your hiking plans and expected return time
- Don't hike alone if possible, and never go off marked trails
- Check weather forecasts and avoid hiking during rain or extreme heat
- Bring a basic first aid kit including blister treatment and pain relievers
- Know your limits - trails like Path of the Gods require good fitness and aren't suitable for everyone
Dining and Food Safety
- Always ask for a menu with prices before sitting down or ordering
- Clarify whether service charges and coperto are included or additional
- Tap water is safe to drink but restaurants typically serve bottled water (which is charged)
- Be cautious of seafood in very hot weather or in restaurants without proper refrigeration
- Verify prices of daily specials and fresh fish, which are often charged by weight
- Don't feel obligated to tip heavily - service is often included, and 5-10% is generous
- Make reservations for dinner, especially in peak season and at popular restaurants
- Be aware that many restaurants close between lunch (2-3pm) and dinner (7-8pm)
Photography and Personal Conduct
- Be extremely careful when taking photos near cliff edges - several tourists fall each year
- Don't stop vehicles in dangerous locations for photos on the coastal road
- Respect private property - not all picturesque spots are public access
- Be mindful of other tourists and locals when photographing in crowded areas
- Dress modestly when visiting churches - shoulders and knees should be covered
- Ask permission before photographing local residents or private businesses
- Don't use drones without proper permits - restrictions apply in many areas
- Secure your phone or camera with a strap when photographing from heights or boats
Communication and Connectivity
- Learn basic Italian phrases - English is spoken in tourist areas but not everywhere
- Download offline maps, translation apps, and important information before arrival
- Purchase a local SIM card or ensure your roaming plan works in Italy
- Save emergency numbers and your accommodation's contact information in your phone
- WiFi is available in most hotels and restaurants but can be unreliable
- Keep your phone charged - portable battery packs are essential for day trips
- Cell service can be spotty on hiking trails and in tunnels along the coastal road
- Register with your embassy if staying for extended periods
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
The Amalfi Coast is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. Italy has a strong tourism infrastructure and women commonly travel alone or in groups throughout the region. However, like much of Italy, women may experience unwanted attention in the form of catcalling, staring, or persistent advances, particularly from some local men. This is usually more annoying than dangerous, but it's important to be prepared and know how to respond. The biggest safety concerns for women travelers relate to physical hazards (steep stairs, hiking, traffic) rather than gender-specific crime, though standard precautions against petty theft and scams apply.
- Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites - shoulders and knees covered
- Ignore catcalls and unwanted comments; responding often encourages more attention
- Be firm and direct if someone is bothering you; 'No' in any language is understood
- Avoid isolated areas, beaches, and hiking trails alone, especially early morning or evening
- Choose accommodations in well-populated areas with good reviews from other women travelers
- Use hotel safes for valuables and keep copies of important documents separately
- Consider joining group tours for hiking or boat trips rather than going alone
- Trust your instincts - if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Be cautious accepting drinks from strangers or leaving drinks unattended
- Wear practical footwear suitable for stairs and uneven surfaces rather than fashion-focused choices
- Keep phone charged and share your location with friends/family when out alone
- Book transfers through hotels rather than accepting rides from strangers
- Be aware that some beach clubs and restaurants may seat attractive women travelers prominently to attract customers
- Solo dining is completely normal - don't feel self-conscious eating alone
- Wedding rings (real or fake) can sometimes deter unwanted attention
- Learn key Italian phrases like 'Lasciami in pace' (Leave me alone) and 'Vai via' (Go away)
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Italy with the age of consent equal to heterosexual relations (14 years). Same-sex civil unions have been legal since 2016, providing most rights of marriage. However, same-sex marriage and adoption rights are not currently recognized. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal, though enforcement can be inconsistent.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection - holding hands may attract attention
- Research LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations in advance; many boutique hotels are welcoming
- Larger towns like Amalfi and Positano are more accustomed to diverse travelers than small villages
- Be aware that some locals may make assumptions about traveling companions (friends vs. couples)
- Naples and Salerno have more visible LGBTQ+ communities and venues if you want to connect
- Hotel staff and tourism professionals are generally professional and discreet
- Consider booking accommodations with private entrances if concerned about privacy
- Be prepared for questions about marital status or children, which are common conversation topics in Italian culture
- Trans travelers should be aware that understanding of trans issues is limited in more conservative areas
- Carry identification that matches your gender presentation to avoid issues
- Join LGBTQ+ travel groups or forums for current information and recommendations
- Don't let caution prevent you from enjoying your trip - many LGBTQ+ travelers visit without incident
- Report any discrimination or harassment to local police and your country's embassy if serious
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting the Amalfi Coast due to several region-specific factors. The challenging terrain increases risk of hiking injuries, falls on stairs, and traffic accidents. Emergency medical evacuation by helicopter from remote locations can cost tens of thousands of euros. Italy's healthcare system, while excellent, can be expensive for non-EU visitors who must pay upfront. The coastal road's dangerous conditions make comprehensive vehicle insurance crucial if driving. Weather can disrupt ferry services and flights, potentially requiring unexpected accommodation costs. Trip cancellation coverage is valuable given the high cost of peak-season bookings.
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