Hello my friend. So, you want to explore the Amalfi Coast during summer. Well, you’re in the right place! I stayed in the Amalfi coast this year and travelled the whole coastline, what a beautiful place I must say. However, if you’re not careful it can be overly crowded, expensive and underwhelming. Here are my tops tips to make sure this does not happen for you:
1. Don’t stay in Amalfi or Positano
These are probably the most overcrowded and overpriced Italian destinations I've ever been to. I am embarrassed to say I paid €10 for an ice cream in Amalfi Town (ouch). They may be nice to visit, but do not stay here if you are on a budget. I stayed in Vietri sul Mare which is the closest village to Salerno. This was over half the price and was so much less touristy. It is the only village with a train station, which made it accessible for me to also get to Pompei, Naples, Salerno, and Rome. I felt like I was experiencing a genuine Italian village instead of an overpopulated tourist trap.
In terms of hostels, there aren't many. But if you can find a decent price for the few hostels in Amalfi or Positano it would be worthwhile. But, if you are in a group, find yourself a cute airbnb! Also, the longer you wait to book your accommodation along the coast, the more expensive it will get unfortunately! This is one of those destinations that you should plan the rest of your travels around.
2. Utilise the Ferries (and book in advance)
Ferries are the best way to get around the Amalfi coast (unless you’re rich enough to hire your own boat). I used these to get to almost all the towns along the coast from Vietru sul mare. Use the app FerryHopper or Omio to see the ferry times. You should book these in advance as well.
3. Don’t stay on the beaten track
The most popular destinations are typically the busiest. Why? Because everyone knows about them. Here are some smaller villages I absolutely loved that were just as beautiful and far less touristy than Amalfi and Positano:
Atrani - walking distance from Amalfi with beautiful architecture, affordable meals and car parking (I know, crazy!)
Minori and Maiori - similar vibe to Amalfi, more places to swim
Ravello - Up in the mountains above Minori, stunning views. But mind the thousand steps up the hill
Vietri sul Mare - smaller and far less touristy, affordable
Cetara - cute village near Vietri
4. Buy groceries
I know the only thing you want to eat in Italy is some pizza, pasta and lots of gelato. But, compared to other parts of Italy I've visited, the Amalfi Coast is so expensive! I’m not saying never eat out, I just recommend buying some groceries to cut your costs down.
5. Consider off-peak times
I know you want to be living it up in Italy during summer, but If you visit in a slightly off-peak time you won’t regret it. I visited in June and it was still lovely weather, and less crowded than summer holidays. I would recommend you consider the months of May, June and
September for your visit to still have good
weather.
The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful place in the world. These tips mean you won’t risk an expensive and disappointing trip. Follow me on Instagram and TikTok for more tips, advice and travel content!
Thank you, love Amy ♡
Comments