Amalfi Coast · Shopping Guide
Best Shopping on the Amalfi Coast for Cruise Travelers
Amalfi Coast shopping revolves around the region's famous lemons, handmade ceramics from Vietri sul Mare, handcrafted sandals, and limoncello. The winding streets of Amalfi and Positano are lined with artisan workshops where many items are still made by hand using techniques passed down through generations.
Ceramics: Vietri and Amalfi Tradition
The Amalfi Coast is Italy's most famous ceramics region. Vietri sul Mare (at the coast's eastern end) has dozens of ceramics workshops with hand-painted tiles, plates, and decorative pieces. In Amalfi town, shops sell ceramics in the distinctive yellow, blue, and green Amalfitano style. Prices range from 5 EUR for a tile to 200+ EUR for large platters.
Lemon Products
Everything lemon: limoncello (buy from local producers, not tourist brands), lemon soap and cosmetics, lemon candy, lemon-infused olive oil, and even lemon-shaped ceramics. The sfusato amalfitano lemon is a protected product (IGP designation). Real limoncello should be cloudy, not clear.
Positano Fashion
Positano has been famous for fashion since the 1960s jet-set era. Positano-style clothing — flowing linen dresses, embroidered caftans, and hand-painted sandals — is sold in dozens of boutiques. Safari and La Bottega di Brunella are established names. Custom-made sandals (made while you wait) are a Positano specialty at 50-120 EUR.
Practical Tips
Shops in Amalfi and Positano open around 10 AM and close by 8 PM in summer. Credit cards are accepted at most shops. Shipping is available for ceramics and larger items. Non-EU visitors can claim VAT refunds on purchases over 70 EUR. The paper mills of Amalfi sell handmade paper products (cards, journals) using centuries-old methods — a unique and lightweight souvenir.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get ceramics shipped home from the Amalfi Coast?
Yes, most ceramic shops offer worldwide shipping, well-packed for fragile items. Expect to pay 30-60 EUR for international shipping depending on size and weight. It's worthwhile for larger or fragile pieces you can't easily carry.
What is the best limoncello to buy?
Buy from local producers, not mass-market tourist brands. Real Amalfi limoncello should be cloudy (not clear), intensely lemony, and not overly sweet. Ask for 'limoncello artigianale' made with sfusato amalfitano lemons. Small producers near Amalfi's Duomo are a good bet.
Are Positano sandals worth the price?
Custom-made leather sandals fitted to your feet are one of the Amalfi Coast's most iconic purchases. At 50-120 EUR, they're not cheap, but they're handmade, unique, and last for years. Several shops on Via Pasitea make them while you wait.