Best Towns to Stay on the Amalfi Coast: Italy’s luxury coast

Imagine waking up to the sound of gentle waves, stepping onto a sun-drenched terrace, and gazing out at the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

This dream becomes reality on the Amalfi Coast, a 50-kilometer stretch of coastline in southern Italy that UNESCO has declared a World Heritage Site.

With its dramatic cliffs, pastel-colored villages, and fragrant lemon groves, the Amalfi Coast is a slice of paradise that has captivated travelers for centuries. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the best towns to stay in this Italian wonderland.

Quick Picks: Best Amalfi Coast towns at a Glance

• Best Overall Location: Positano
• Best for First-Time Visitors: Amalfi
• Best Value for Money: Atrani
• Best for Luxury: Ravello
• Best for Families: Praiano
• Best for Solo Travelers: Amalfi

Transportation Overview

Before choosing your accommodation, understand how you’ll get around:

• Public Transportation: SITA buses connect all major towns (€2-8 per ride)
• Ferry Services: Regular boats between Positano, Amalfi, and Salerno (€12-20)
• Private Transfers: €80-120 from Naples Airport
• Parking: Limited and expensive (€25-40/day) in most towns

The Top 5 Best Towns to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

1. Positano: The Jewel of the Amalfi

Positano, with its colorful houses cascading down the cliff face, is perhaps the most iconic town on the Amalfi Coast. It’s a favorite among celebrities and luxury travelers, known for its chic boutiques, pebble beaches, and stunning sunsets.

Perfect for: Luxury travelers, photographers, shopping enthusiasts

Pros:

• Most photographed and iconic views
• Best shopping (local fashion and artisanal goods)
• Excellent restaurant scene
• Vibrant nightlife
• Beautiful beaches

Cons:

• Most expensive area
• Very crowded in peak season
• Many stairs (challenging for those with mobility issues)
• Limited parking
• Can feel touristy

Best places to stay in Positano:

1. Solo Travel: Hotel Palazzo Murat. Once the summer residence of the King of Naples, this elegant hotel in the heart of Positano offers a peaceful courtyard and a prime location for solo explorers.
2. Budget-Friendly: Hotel Savoia. While “budget” is relative in Positano, Hotel Savoia offers more affordable rooms without sacrificing the stunning sea views.
3. Couples Escape: Le Sirenuse This legendary luxury hotel offers unparalleled romantic ambiance with its Michelin-starred restaurant and infinity pool overlooking the sea.
4. Family-Friendly: Hotel Conca d’Oro. With spacious rooms and a convenient location, this hotel caters well to families wanting to experience Positano’s charm.
5. Luxury: Il San Pietro di Positano. Perched on a cliff outside town, this ultra-luxurious hotel offers private beach access via elevator and Michelin-starred dining.

2. Amalfi: Historical Heart of the Coast

The town that gives the coast its name, Amalfi is rich in history and maritime tradition. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the entire coastline.

Perfect for: First-time visitors, history buffs, central location seekers

Pros:

• Central location for exploring the coast
• Better public transportation connections
• Flatter terrain (easier walking)
• Rich historical attractions
• Larger selection of restaurants
• More affordable than Positano

Cons:

• Can be crowded with day-trippers
• Beach is smaller than Maiori/Minori
• Some areas feel commercial
• Heavy boat traffic in summer

Best places to stay in Amalfi:

1. Solo Travel: Residenza Luce. This charming B&B in the historic center offers cozy rooms and a rooftop terrace, perfect for solo travelers.
2. Budget-Friendly: Hotel Croce di Amalfi. Located just steps from the main square and beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms at more accessible prices.
3. Couples Escape: Santa Caterina Hotel. A romantic luxury hotel set in a stunning Art Nouveau villa with clifftop views and a beach club.
4. Family-Friendly: Hotel Marina Riviera. This hotel offers family rooms and a rooftop pool, all within easy walking distance of Amalfi’s attractions.
5. Group Travel: Grand Hotel Excelsior. With its spacious rooms and central location, this hotel is ideal for groups exploring the Amalfi Coast together.

3. Ravello: Hilltop Haven of Culture

Perched high above the coast, Ravello is known for its romantic gardens, stunning views, and rich cultural scene, including the famous Ravello Festival.

Perfect for: Culture lovers, luxury seekers, peaceful retreat

Pros:

• Stunning clifftop views
• Famous gardens (Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone)
• Prestigious summer music festival
• More peaceful atmosphere
• Cooler temperatures
• Exclusive luxury hotels

Cons:

• No beach access
• Limited dining options after sunset
• Requires transportation to other towns
• Higher prices for comparable rooms
• Not ideal for nightlife seekers

Best places to stay in Ravello:

1. Luxury: Belmond Hotel Caruso. Occupying an 11th-century palace, this luxurious hotel boasts an infinity pool that seems to merge with the sea below.
2. Couples Escape: Palazzo Avino. Known as the “Pink Palace,” this romantic hotel offers Michelin-starred dining and panoramic sea views.
3. Family-Friendly: Hotel Graal. With its spacious rooms and swimming pool, Hotel Graal provides a comfortable base for families in Ravello.

4. Atrani: The Hidden Gem

Often overlooked by tourists, Atrani is the smallest town in southern Italy and offers a more authentic, less crowded Amalfi Coast experience.

Perfect for: Budget-conscious travelers, authentic experience seekers

Pros:

• Most affordable accommodation
• Authentic local atmosphere
• Less crowded
• Walking distance to Amalfi
• Beautiful main square
• Hidden beaches

Cons:

• Limited hotel options
• Fewer restaurant choices
• Minimal nightlife
• Some accommodations require climbing stairs
• Less frequent public transportation

Best places to stay in Atrani:

1. Budget-Friendly: Palazzo Ferraioli. This affordable hotel offers modern rooms and a rooftop terrace with beautiful sea views.
2. Couples Escape: Atrani Apartments. These well-appointed apartments provide a home-away-from-home feel, perfect for couples wanting more space and privacy.

5. Praiano: Sunset Paradise

Located between Positano and Amalfi, Praiano is known for its spectacular sunsets and more relaxed atmosphere.

Perfect for: Sunset views, quiet atmosphere, value seekers

Pros:

• Best sunset views
• More peaceful atmosphere
• Better value than Positano
• Access to hidden beaches
• Local fishing village charm
• Position between Positano and Amalfi

Cons:

• Limited restaurant options
• Spread out along the coast
• Fewer shopping opportunities
• Steeper walks to beach access
• Less frequent public transportation

Best places to stay in Praiano:

1. Luxury: Casa Angelina. This modern, adults-only hotel offers minimalist luxury and breathtaking views of Positano and Capri.
2. Family-Friendly: Hotel Margherita. With its rooftop pool and family rooms, Hotel Margherita provides a comfortable stay for families in a quieter setting.

Two Towns to Avoid Staying

While the Amalfi Coast is generally beautiful, there are a couple of areas you might want to skip:

1. Vietri sul Mare: While known for its ceramics, it’s more industrial and lacks the picturesque charm of other Amalfi towns.
2. Maiori: Although it has the longest beach on the Amalfi Coast, the town was heavily rebuilt after a flood in 1954 and lacks the historic character of its neighbors.

Seasonal Considerations

Spring (March-May)

• Temperature: 15-20°C
• Pros: Fewer crowds, lower prices, beautiful blooms
• Cons: Some facilities not yet open, occasional rain
• Price Impact: 20-30% lower than peak season

Summer (June-August)

• Temperature: 25-30°C
• Pros: All attractions open, perfect beach weather
• Cons: Extreme crowds, highest prices, hot weather
• Price Impact: Peak rates (100%)

Fall (September-November)

• Temperature: 15-25°C (59-77°F)
• Rainfall: Moderate (5-7 rainy days per month)
• Water Temperature: 19-23°C (66-73°F)

Winter (December-February)

• Temperature: 8-15°C (46-59°F)
• Rainfall: Highest of the year (8-10 rainy days per month)
• Water Temperature: 14-16°C (57-61°F)

Special Events:

• January: Feast of Sant’Antonio Abate
• February: Carnival celebrations
• September: Amalfi Musical September
• October: Chestnut Festival in Scala
• November: Ravello Concert Society performances
• December: Christmas markets in Amalfi

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Booking Too Late
   • Solution: Reserve 6-8 months ahead for peak season
   • Alternative dates: Consider October for better availability
   • Last-minute tip: Check Atrani or Praiano for cancellations
2. Underestimating Transportation Time
   • Reality: Naples to Positano can take 2+ hours
   • Tip: Book private transfers in advance
   • Cost consideration: Budget €120-150 for private transfers
3. Overpacking
   • Challenge: Many stairs and narrow streets
   • Solution: Pack light, consider luggage storage in Naples
   • Tip: Most hotels offer laundry services
4. Poor Location Choice
   • Problem: Booking accommodation far from town centers
   • Solution: Verify exact location and distance to amenities
   • Important: Check number of steps to reach property
5. Insufficient Budget Planning
   • Reality: Hidden costs like beach club fees (€20-30/day)
   • Solution: Add 30% buffer to basic accommodation budget
   • Tip: Consider half-board options in high season
6. Ignoring Shoulder Season Benefits
   • Opportunity: May and September offer perfect weather
   • Advantage: 30-40% lower prices than peak season
   • Bonus: Better availability at top restaurants
7. Missing Advance Reservations
   • Restaurants: Book 2-3 weeks ahead for fine dining
   • Beach Clubs: Reserve sunbeds 1 week ahead in summer
   • Tours: Book private guides 1 month in advance
8. Transportation Misconceptions
   • Reality: Taxis are expensive (€50+ between towns)
   • Solution: Learn SITA bus schedules
   • Tip: Purchase multi-day bus passes for savings

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Positano worth the high prices?
A: Yes, if you prioritize iconic views and high-end experiences. For better value, consider staying in Amalfi or Atrani and visiting Positano by day.

Q: How long should I stay?
A: Minimum 3 nights, ideally 5-7 to fully explore the coast without rushing. Consider splitting time between two towns for different experiences.

Q: Which town is best for families with young children?
A: Amalfi or Maiori offer flatter terrain and better beach access. Avoid Positano and Ravello due to numerous stairs.

Q: Do I need a car?
A: Generally no. Parking is expensive (€25-40/day) and limited. Public transportation and occasional taxis are more practical.

Q: What’s the best way to get from Naples Airport?
A: Private transfer is most convenient (€120-150). Alternatively, combination of shuttle to Sorrento (€10) and SITA bus (€2-8).

Q: Are the beaches free to access?
A: Public areas exist but are limited. Private beach clubs charge €20-30/day for sunbeds and facilities.

Q: Which towns have the best nightlife?
A: Positano and Amalfi offer the most evening entertainment. Ravello has seasonal concerts. Other towns are quieter.

Q: Is it possible to visit as a day trip from Naples or Rome?
A: Possible but not recommended. Travel time consumes most of the day. Minimum overnight stay recommended.

Q: How accessible is the Amalfi Coast for those with mobility issues?
A: Challenging in most towns. Amalfi and Maiori are most accessible. Request ground floor rooms or properties with elevators.

Q: What’s the best time for photography?
A: Early morning (6-8am) for empty streets. Golden hour before sunset for iconic coastal shots. November-February for crowd-free photos.
A: Minimum 3 nights, ideally 5-7 to fully explore the coast without rushing.

Conclusion

From the glamorous cliffs of Positano to the cultural heights of Ravello, the Amalfi Coast offers a diverse array of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo exploration of Italian culture and beauty, you’ll find your perfect slice of paradise here.

Remember to book well in advance, especially for the peak summer season, and consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) for milder weather and smaller crowds.

As you plan your Amalfi Coast getaway, imagine yourself sipping limoncello on a terrace overlooking the sea, strolling through narrow medieval streets, or lounging on a sun-drenched beach. The Amalfi Coast isn’t just a destination; it’s a dream come true. So pack your bags, book your perfect stay, and prepare for an unforgettable journey along Italy’s most beautiful coastline!