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Local travel advice · Campania, Italy
Amalfi Coast and Capri Travel Guide
Realistic itineraries, transport advice, towns, beaches, experiences and practical tips to plan your trip from Salerno, Naples, Sorrento or Rome.
Before you go
Everything you need to plan a trip that works in the real world
This guide brings together clear answers to the most important questions about the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Salerno, Sorrento, Naples, Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius and Paestum. The Amalfi Coast lies in Campania, in the province of Salerno, and its cultural landscape has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. This is more than a checklist of photo stops: it is a practical tool for choosing where to stay, how many days to spend in the area and the best transport for each day.
The coast is steep, transport changes with the season and the weather can alter a day at sea. A good itinerary therefore needs realistic timings, backup options and a base that suits your travel style. Advice from Amalfi Coast Lovers is grounded in local experience and services arranged or facilitated by VISTA – Travel Signature, a licensed Travel Agency and Tour Operator.
Start with the right question
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What would you like to plan first?
Open the section that answers your question, or follow the guide from beginning to end.
How do I get there?
Compare airports, trains, ferries and private transfers from Naples, Salerno or Rome.
Plan your arrivalHow do I get around?
Choose ferries, buses, a chauffeured car, a scooter or a different combination each day.
Compare transport optionsHow many days do I need?
Find ideas for a day trip, a weekend, three days or a full week in Campania.
Choose an itineraryWhat is worth seeing beyond Positano?
Discover Amalfi, Ravello, Praiano, Cetara, Vietri, Minori, Maiori and quieter coastal towns.
Explore the destinationsWhich experiences should I book?
Boat trips, lemon groves, food, hiking, archaeology, wine and private tours with local experts.
Find your experienceTraveling with children or luggage?
Plan for stairs, strollers, piers, rooms far from the road and door-to-door transfers.
Read the practical adviceWhat if the weather changes?
Prepare a backup plan with museums, towns, tastings and archaeological sites.
Build a plan B
Choose your base
Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast
There is no single best base for everyone. The right choice depends on where you arrive, your mobility, your budget and the day trips that matter most to you.
| Base | Best for | Main advantage | Things to consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salerno | First-time visitors, families, balanced budgets and train arrivals | Train station, port, flat center and easy access to the coast, Paestum and Cilento | You are not inside the iconic coastal towns, but transport is often easier |
| Amalfi | Travelers who want a central position | A useful hub for boats and buses; Ravello is relatively close | Busy in the middle of the day and more expensive in high season |
| Maiori or Minori | Families, relaxed stays and travelers who prefer fewer stairs | More accessible seafronts, beaches and a local atmosphere | Always check the real distance between your accommodation, bus stop and pier |
| Positano or Praiano | Couples, romantic trips, views and days by the sea | Iconic scenery and access to boats, beaches and the Path of the Gods | Many stairs, high prices and luggage logistics that require planning |
| Sorrento | Capri, Pompeii and the western side of the Amalfi Coast | Good range of services and connections to Naples and the islands | Day trips to Amalfi and Ravello can become long |
| Naples | City breaks, culture, food and international departures | Airport, high-speed rail and a wide range of urban experiences | Not the most practical base for visiting the Amalfi Coast every day |
| Capri | Travelers who want the island early in the morning and after day-trippers leave | More time for Anacapri, walking trails, the sea and sunsets | Higher costs and luggage transport require more organization |
Local tip: before booking, ask how many steps separate your room from the road, port or bus stop. “Close” on a map can still mean a steep climb.
Seasons
March–May
June–August
September–October
November–February
When to visit the Amalfi Coast and Capri
Spring and early autumn often provide the best balance. Summer brings warm seas, events and more frequent services, but also heat, high demand and larger crowds.
Spring
Historic towns, gardens, hiking and generally milder temperatures.
- Excellent for walking
- Ferry services gradually increase
- Evenings can still be cool
Summer
The most popular season for boat trips, beaches, events and long days.
- Book well in advance
- Start early in the morning
- Expect heat and queues
Early autumn
The sea is often still pleasant, with a more relaxed pace after the summer peak.
- A good time for couples
- Ideal for food and culture
- Always check the marine forecast
Winter
An authentic atmosphere, but shorter hours and fewer visitor services.
- Perfect for slow travel
- A car or transfer is often more practical
- Check opening times and connections
Arrivals
How to reach the Amalfi Coast from Naples, Salerno and Rome
Choose your route based on where you will spend the first night, not only on the cheapest flight. An evening arrival, heavy luggage or young children can make a door-to-door transfer worthwhile.
Naples International Airport
This is the main international gateway. From here you can reach Naples Central Station, Sorrento, Salerno or your accommodation directly.
Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport
Convenient for Salerno, the eastern Amalfi Coast and Cilento. Check the onward connection to the station or your hotel before you travel.
High-speed train
Naples Central Station and Salerno are the most useful rail hubs. From Rome, continue to either city.
Getting around
How to get around the Amalfi Coast
The most effective approach is often to combine different modes: travel by sea to avoid traffic, use a car or minivan for Ravello and inland areas, and walk through the historic centers.
Ferry
Scenic and practical between coastal towns. Schedules and ports depend on the season and sea conditions.
Check ferry routesChauffeured car or minivan
The most comfortable choice for flexible schedules, luggage, families and towns that are not accessible by sea.
Explore road toursPublic bus
Affordable and extensive, but it can be crowded. Leave extra time between connections.
Private boat
Flexible timing, hidden coves, swimming stops and unique views of Positano, Amalfi, Capri and Li Galli.
Explore boat toursVespa or scooter
Suitable for experienced riders who are confident with bends, traffic and parking. Always consider the weather and insurance.
Rent a scooterOn foot
Perfect in historic towns and on trails, but elevation changes, steps and heat require suitable shoes and water.
Path of the Gods guideGolden rule: do not schedule a flight, train or cruise departure immediately after a ferry connection. Wind and sea conditions can cause changes or cancellations.
Trip ideas
Amalfi Coast itineraries from 1 to 7 days
Avoid filling every hour. Time to enjoy one town, swim and have a local lunch is more rewarding than five rushed stops.
1 day
The iconic highlights
Positano + Amalfi by sea, or Positano + Amalfi + Ravello by car or minivan.
Do not combine a boat trip and Ravello if you only have a few hours.
2 days
Amalfi Coast + Capri
Spend day one exploring the coastal towns; visit Capri and Anacapri or cruise around the island on day two.
3 days
Sea, towns and history
See the Amalfi Coast by boat, visit Capri and spend one day at Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius or enjoying local food.
Detailed itinerary5–7 days
Slow travel in Campania
Add Salerno, Cetara, Minori, Maiori, Paestum, a lemon grove, a winery and unhurried time by the sea.
5 days from Salerno
Places
Coastal towns, cities and islands to explore
Positano, Amalfi and Ravello are only the beginning. Lesser-known towns often offer quieter beaches, local flavors and a more authentic rhythm.
Experience the region
SEA
LAND
TASTE
HISTORY
NATURE
FOOD
EVENTS
BESPOKE
Authentic experiences and local tours
A journey becomes memorable when it connects you with people, landscapes and traditions. Choose activities that suit your pace, not just a checklist of famous places.
Boat tours
Amalfi Coast, Capri, swimming stops, caves, aperitifs and private cruises.
Explore boat toursCar and minivan tours
Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, Pompeii, Naples and private chauffeured itineraries.
Explore road toursLemons and local cuisine
Lemon grove visits, tastings, seasonal produce and lunches beneath the lemon trees.
Experience the Lemon TourPompeii and Mount Vesuvius
Archaeology, volcanic landscapes and the option to add a winery visit and tasting.
Excursion from SalernoTrails and views
Path of the Gods, Valle delle Ferriere and walks for different fitness levels.
Plan your hikeChefs and local flavors
Private culinary experiences, mozzarella, wine, limoncello, seafood and Campanian recipes.
Explore food experiencesFestivals and culture
Local calendars, festivals, religious traditions, music, food fairs and seasonal events.
Local news and eventsTailor-made trip
Departures from Naples, Salerno, Sorrento, hotels, stations, airports and cruise ports.
Request a custom plan
For every traveler
Families, couples, groups and reduced mobility
Sharing your needs, children’s ages, luggage and mobility requirements in advance helps prevent surprises and makes it easier to choose suitable transport, accommodation and piers.
Families with children
Maiori, Minori and Salerno are often easier with strollers. Plan sun protection, water and breaks in the shade.
Couples and special occasions
Praiano and Positano offer sunsets and a romantic atmosphere; a private boat adds freedom and privacy.
Groups and large families
Minivans, agreed schedules and advance bookings help keep the group together in crowded places.
Cruise passengers
Share your ship, port, all-aboard time and required safety margin. Avoid tight connections.
Reduced mobility
Many towns have stairs, slopes and uneven surfaces. Request a specific accessibility assessment before booking.
Solo travelers
Shared tours and departures from Salerno or Sorrento can make it easier to meet people and manage costs.
Currency
Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted; a small amount of cash is still useful.
Language
Italian. English is common in visitor services.
Electricity
230 V; plug types C, F and L. Bring an adapter if needed.
Time zone
CET in winter and CEST during daylight saving time.
Travel better
Practical tips, safety and responsible travel
Small choices make your trip smoother and help protect a fragile landscape shaped by the sea, terraced hillsides and historic towns.
- Check the weather and sea forecast before boat trips, ferries and hikes; always prepare an alternative.
- Book limited-capacity essentials: accommodation, boats, beach clubs, transfers and popular restaurants.
- Start early on busy days and keep the middle of the day open for lunch, a museum or the beach.
- Pack light: stairs, piers and historic centers make large suitcases difficult to manage.
- Respect trails and private property, take your waste away and do not pick produce on private land.
- Buy local: Vietri ceramics, lemons, wine, preserves and crafts support coastal communities.
- Download offline maps and save your accommodation address, tickets and essential contacts.
- Call 112 in an emergency and share your location and the nearest landmark.
Frequently asked questions
Amalfi Coast travel FAQ
Clear answers to the questions travelers ask most often before booking.
How many days do I need to visit the Amalfi Coast?
For a first visit, we recommend 3–5 days. In one day you can see two or three towns, but you will have little time for beaches, local experiences and lesser-known places.
What is the best time to visit?
April, May, June, September and October often offer the best balance of weather, services and crowd levels. July and August are ideal for swimming, but require more advance planning.
What is the best base without a car?
Salerno is very practical for trains and ferries; Amalfi is central for the coast; Sorrento is useful for Naples, Pompeii, Capri and the western side. The right choice depends on your priority day trips.
Should I rent a car?
In high season, traffic, narrow roads and limited parking can make driving demanding. Ferries, buses and chauffeured cars are often more relaxing. A rental car can be more useful in winter.
Do ferries operate all year?
Some routes may operate outside summer, but frequencies and destinations change. All sea connections can be altered by weather and sea conditions, so always check the latest timetable.
Can I visit Capri as a day trip?
Yes. Start early, choose between Capri town, Anacapri, a boat tour and the Blue Grotto in advance, and do not try to do everything. In high season, book ferries and tours ahead.
Is Positano suitable for strollers or reduced mobility?
Positano is built vertically and has many stairs. Some areas can be reached from the road or by sea, but specific planning is essential. Maiori, Minori and Salerno are generally flatter.
How far in advance should I book?
For travel between June and September, secure accommodation, boat trips, transfers and limited-capacity activities early. Spring, autumn and winter offer more flexibility, but weekends and events can still sell out.
Can I see Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast on the same day?
It is possible with a well-organized tour, but the day will be intensive. If you have at least three days, give one day to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius and another to the coastal towns.
Which Amalfi Coast towns are less crowded?
Cetara, Vietri sul Mare, Minori, Maiori, Atrani and parts of Praiano offer a more local atmosphere than the most famous destinations, especially in the morning and outside high season.
What can I do if it rains or the sea is rough?
Consider Pompeii with a guide and suitable clothing, museums, Amalfi Cathedral, the Paper Museum, ceramics in Vietri, tastings, a cooking class or a day in Salerno or Naples.
Does Amalfi Coast Lovers arrange tailor-made itineraries?
Yes. We can combine transfers, cars or minivans, boats, tickets, guides and local experiences according to your dates, group size, starting point and interests.
Talk to a local expert
Turn your ideas into a realistic itinerary
Share your dates, group size, starting point and the experiences you are looking for. We will help you build a realistic, personalized proposal.
Amalfi Coast Lovers is a brand of VISTA – Travel Signature, a licensed Travel Agency and Tour Operator.
WhatsApp: +39 333 579 3745
Email: info@amalficoastlovers.com