Mediterranean · Italy
Amalfi Coast Travel Guide
The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO-listed stretch of dramatic cliffs, pastel-coloured villages, and terraced lemon groves plunging into turquoise water. Ships typically anchor off Amalfi town or dock at nearby Salerno, giving access to one of Italy's most breathtaking coastlines.
How Do You Get from the Ship to Shore?
If tendering to Amalfi, you step off right on the waterfront. If docked at Salerno, take a SITA bus (2.40 euro, 75 min) or summer ferry (8 euro, 35 min) to Amalfi town. The bus ride along the coast is hair-raising but spectacular.
What Can You See in 6 Hours?
Amalfi town — The 9th-century cathedral with its Arab-Norman architecture dominates the main piazza. Wander the narrow lanes, visit the Paper Museum, and soak in the atmosphere.
Positano — The most photographed village on the coast. Cascading pastel buildings down a steep cliff to a grey pebble beach. Bus from Amalfi (25 min) or ferry in summer.
Ravello — Perched 350m above the sea with world-famous gardens. Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone have jaw-dropping terraces overlooking the coast.
Path of the Gods — A stunning clifftop hiking trail from Agerola to Nocelle above Positano. Only for fit walkers with 4+ hours to spare.
Where Should You Eat on the Amalfi Coast?
Seafood: Fresh anchovies from Cetara, grilled swordfish, and spaghetti alle vongole (clams) are outstanding. Restaurants right on Amalfi's waterfront are pricey but the setting is unforgettable.
Lemons: Amalfi lemons are enormous and sweet. Try delizia al limone (lemon cake), lemon granita, and of course limoncello — the local obsession.
Budget: Pizza by the slice and arancini from bakeries in Amalfi's back streets cost 2-4 euro. Much better value than waterfront restaurants.
Is the Amalfi Coast Worth Exploring Independently?
Yes, but plan carefully. The coast is connected by SITA buses which are cheap but crowded and slow on the winding road. Pick one or two villages rather than trying to see everything. Amalfi + Ravello is a perfect combo. Ship excursions here are extremely expensive (150+ euro) for what is essentially a bus ride you can do for 2.40 euro.
Useful Local Phrases
Buongiorno
Good morning
(bwon-JOR-noh)
Il conto, per favore
The bill, please
(eel KON-toh, pair fah-VOR-eh)
Quanto costa?
How much?
(KWAN-toh KOS-tah)
Sono allergico/a a...
I am allergic to...
(SOH-noh ah-LAIR-jee-koh ah)
Un limoncello, per favore
A limoncello, please
(oon lee-mon-CHEL-loh, pair fah-VOR-eh)
Local Tips
- •The coast road is narrow, winding, and terrifying by bus. Sit on the right side for sea views. Take motion sickness tablets if prone.
- •Positano is stunning but extremely steep — hundreds of steps down to the beach and back up. Wear proper shoes, not flip-flops.
- •Buy limoncello from small producers, not tourist shops. Look for 'produzione propria' (own production) on the label.
- •Ravello is above the coast with spectacular gardens and views. Bus from Amalfi takes 25 minutes.
- •Beach chairs at Positano and Amalfi beaches cost 15-25 euro per set. Free sections exist but are small and fill early.