The iconic images of Italy's Amalfi Coast - long flights of stairs, steep lanes, curvy roads, and dramatic coastal cliffs - are not very family-friendly, if we are to be perfectly honest. But if you are planning a visit to Italy's most beautiful stretch of coastline with your kids, don't despair! Here are some tips and suggestions to help make sure your family vacation in Amalfi and Positano is fun and stress-free for both kids and adults.
Best Locations for Family-Friendly Hotels
The most kid-friendly towns on the Amalfi Coast are Maiori, Minori, and Amalfi. All three have a short boardwalk where you can stroll with a pram or stroller, a limited amount of stairs, and relatively large pebble beaches. Maiori and Minori also have more affordable accommodation options. Positano, though gorgeous, is not the best choice if you are travelling with young children, due to the steeply graded streets and long flights of stairs.
We also recommend Sorrento for those travelling with family. Though this resort town is not strictly part of the Amalfi Coast, it has the advantage of being well-connected by public transportation to all the nearby sights and towns, and has a level historic center with a few public parks, perfect for young children to blow off some steam.
Baby Carrier, Stroller, or Pram?
The only town where you will have significant problems with a stroller or pram is Positano, so definitely opt for a carrier or baby backpack to explore this steep cliffside village.
Getting Around the Amalfi Coast with Children
From the end of October to Easter, you can easily get around by car on the Amalfi Coast... as long as you are up for navigating the winding coastal road. There isn't much traffic during this time of year, and the parking lots have free spots (though expensive: expect to pay EUR 4/hour).
In high season from Easter through October, it's best to avoid driving due to the heavy traffic and limited parking. The better option to get from town to town on the coast is to take one of the ferries that link Salerno, Amalfi, Maiori, and Positano. To visit towns that are not accessible by water, take the local Sita bus.
Things to See and Do with Children on the Amalfi Coast
Clearly, the best option for family fun on the Amalfi Coast is time on the beach or in the main square, where local children gather to play as most of the villages are too small to have a public park. In Positano, there is some outdoor play equipment on the terrace of the Middle School, while in Strani there is a small park at the very top of the village.
In Sorrento, there is a public park just for kids inside Villa Fiorentino.
Another fun activitiy for kids is a boat tour or even a simple ride on the ferry. Older kids may enjoy hiking the Vallone delle Ferriere (Valley of the Mills) trail above Amalfi.
Kids of all ages love gelato and sweets, so be sure to stop at the San de Riso pastry shop in Minori and da Pansa in Amalfi's main square.
Child-Friendly Restaurants on the Amalfi Coast
Children are welcome more or less everywhere on the Amalfi Coast, and you won't have any problem requesting a simple dish for them like pasta with red sauce or pizza.
Restaurants on the beach are particularly family-friendly since kids can play on the water's edge while the adults relax over their meal. If you want to head to the hills, stop for a meal at La Tagliata in Nocelle, where kids can visit the farm and see the animals.