Travel Tips for Visiting the Amalfi Coast: Save Money & Time

The Eternal City’s waiting for you! And our tips for visiting Rome are sure to make your trip one to remember – without breaking the bank.

March 3, 2025

Lauren Stuttaford

Travel

The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most breathtaking destinations, famous for its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and sparkling Mediterranean waters. From Positano’s postcard views to Ravello’s tranquil gardens and Amalfi’s historic charm, this UNESCO-listed coastline is a dream for travelers.

But while the Amalfi Coast is stunning, it can also be expensive and time-consuming to navigate. With narrow roads, limited public transport, and high-season crowds, smart planning is essential. Follow these tips to save money and make the most of your time in this coastal paradise.

Getting to The Amalfi Coast

There’s no direct airport on the Amalfi Coast. The nearest airports are Naples (Napoli Capodichino, NAP) and Rome Fiumicino (FCO). Here’s how to reach the coast efficiently:

From Naples:

Train & Ferry – Take a train to Salerno and then a ferry to Amalfi or Positano. This is the most scenic and hassle-free route!
Bus – The SITA buses run from Naples to Sorrento, where you can transfer to another bus for the Amalfi Coast.
Private Transfer – If you’re traveling with luggage or a group, a private car is an option (€100-150 from Naples).

From Rome:

Train to Salerno – The high-speed Frecciarossa train reaches Salerno in under 2 hours. From there, take a ferry or bus to the coast.
Train to Sorrento – Take a train to Naples, then the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento, and continue by bus or ferry.

Our tip: Avoid buses from Naples to the Amalfi Coast in peak season—traffic is a nightmare! Instead, opt for ferries from Salerno or Sorrento for the most efficient and scenic journey.

Getting Around The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is beautiful; but not always easy to navigate. Here are your best options:

Ferries (Best Option!) – The fastest and most scenic way to travel between Amalfi, Positano, and Salerno. Prices start at €8-€15 per ride.
SITA Buses (Budget Option) – Buses connect all coastal towns, but they are often crowded and slow. A day pass costs €10.
Scooter Rental (For Adventurous Travelers) – Renting a scooter (€40-€60 per day) can save time but is not for the faint of heart—roads are narrow and winding!
Private Car (Expensive but Comfortable) – If you prefer convenience, a private car with a driver costs €100+ per trip.

Our tip: Buy a SITA bus pass for unlimited travel instead of paying per ride. But if you’re short on time, always choose ferries over buses!

Where to Eat Without Overspending

Dining along the Amalfi Coast can be pricey, but there are ways to enjoy delicious food on a budget:

Try Street Food: A slice of pizza al taglio, a cuoppo (fried seafood cone), or a lemon granita makes for an affordable, authentic snack.
Eat Away from the Main Squares: Restaurants along the waterfront in Positano and Amalfi charge premium prices. Instead, head a few streets inland for better deals.
Local Markets & Bakeries: Grab fresh mozzarella, bread, and prosciutto from local markets for a budget-friendly picnic.

Our tip: Many restaurants add a “coperto” (service charge) — this is normal in Italy! Look for trattorias and osterias that don’t charge extra for bread and service.

Where to Stay in The Amalfi Coast Without Breaking the Bank

Accommodation is the biggest expense on the Amalfi Coast. Here’s how to save:

Stay in Less Touristy Towns – Instead of Positano, consider Praiano, Minori, or Maiori, which offer lower prices and easy transport.
Choose a B&B or Guesthouse – Many family-run B&Bs provide authentic hospitality at half the price of hotels.
Book Early! – Hotels fill up months in advance, so plan ahead for the best rates.

Our tip: If you want to be centrally located, stay in Amalfi Town — it has direct ferry and bus connections to most places.

The Best Time to Visit The Amalfi Coast

Timing is everything when visiting the Amalfi Coast:

Spring (April-May): Perfect weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
Summer (June-August): Hot, extremely crowded, and expensive. Book everything in advance!
Fall (September-October): Warm temperatures and fewer tourists—one of the best times to visit.
Winter (November-March): Many businesses close, but if you love quiet, it’s a peaceful time to visit.

Our tip: Travel in May or September for a perfect balance of good weather and lower prices.

Nightlife & Entertainment on a Budget

The Amalfi Coast has plenty of nightlife, but you don’t have to spend a fortune:

Happy Hours (Apéro Time!) – Many bars offer drink specials from 5-7 PM with free snacks.
Beachfront Bars – Instead of pricey nightclubs, grab a drink at a seaside bar like Waka Bar with ocean views.
Free Music & Street Performers – The Old Town comes alive at night with live performances — no cover charge needed!
Money-Saving Tip: The rooftop bar at Hôtel Aston La Scala has the best views without the overpriced cocktails.

Free & Affordable Things to Do

The Amalfi Coast may be luxurious, but there are plenty of free activities:

Hike the Path of the Gods – One of the most spectacular hikes in Italy (free, but bring water!).
Relax on Free Beaches – Many beaches charge for sunbeds, but Marina di Praia (Praiano) and Spiaggia di Fornillo (Positano) have free sections.
Visit the Duomo di Amalfi – A stunning cathedral with free entry.
Explore Ravello’s Free Views – While Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone have entrance fees, there are many free viewpoints.

Our tip: If you’re visiting Positano or Amalfi, go early in the morning to avoid the midday cruise ship crowds.

Packing Tips for The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast requires smart packing due to its steep streets and unpredictable weather:

Comfortable Shoes – You’ll walk up many stairs! Avoid heels.
A Lightweight Backpack – Ideal for day trips and carrying essentials.
A Reusable Water Bottle – Tap water is safe to drink, and fountains are available.
A Swimsuit & Cover-Up – You never know when you’ll find a hidden beach!

Our tip: Bring your own beach towel and snacks — beach clubs charge high rental fees for sunbeds.

Staying Safe & Healthy in The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is generally safe, but keep in mind:

Watch Out for Pickpockets in crowded areas like ferry docks and tourist hotspots.
Avoid Overpriced Taxis – Always ask for the price before getting in!
Stay Hydrated & Wear Sunscreen – The sun is strong, especially in summer.

For medical emergencies, pharmacies (marked with a green cross) can provide assistance.

Our tip: Download the Air Doctor app to find an English-speaking doctor nearby if you need medical help.