Are you planning a three-day visit to the Amalfi Coast? Here are some helpful tips and information so you can make the most of a short stay on one of the most beautiful coastlines in Italy, including visits to the famous villages of Positano and Amalfi.
Where to Stay
Since you need to make the most of your time, we suggest choosing a hotel in Positano or Amalfi so that you can be based in the most famous and lively villages along the coast, with easy public transportation connections to the other destinations along the coastline and the islands. If you are looking for budget accommodations, try the hamlets of Maiori and Minori where there are many B&Bs and apartments that are less expensive but still very close to Amalfi.
Getting Around the Amalfi Coast
The easiest way to get around along the coast is by ferry: there are routes that run between Amalfi, Positano, Salerno, and the island of Capri. Otherwise, there are Sita public buses that run the length of the coast. An excellent alternative is to rent a scooter, so you have all the freedom you want to get around without having to deal with traffic jams and parking. We do not suggest driving, especially during high season.
A Suggested Itinerary
The three most important towns to visit while on the Amalfi Coast are Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello. If you have an extra day or two, you can also plan to take a day trip to Capri on one of the ferries that run from April to October from Amalfi and Positano. There are also excursions often offered from Maiori.
Consider at least 45 minutes to get between Capri and Positano and 20 minutes between Amalfi and Ravello.
During you visit, we recommend spending at least half a day on a boat along the coast, with a side trip to Capri if possible, which is by far the most picturesque way to explore the Amalfi Coast.
Multi-Day Tour packages
Renting a boat and boat tours along the Amalfi Coast
Where to Eat on the Amalfi Coast
For a meal on the beach: choose one of the many waterfront restaurants that can only be reached by boat where you can relax on the beach after lunch. From Amalfi, you can dine at the Santa Teresa on the Santa Croce beach or at La Tonnarella at Conca dei Marini. From Positano, the most famous spot is Da Adolfo in Laurito or choose one of the many excellent restaurants along the beach in Nerano, where they are famous for their “spaghetti alla Nerano”.
For a romantic dinner: book a table with a view at La Rada in Positano or at Il Pirata in Praiano. If you love Michelin-starred restaurants, La Sponda in Positano is for you. The restaurants on the beach at Marina di Praia (Da Armandino and Bar Mare) are also delicious. If you have planned this romantic get away to pop the question or to celebrate a special anniversary, than book a table at La Torre Normanna in Maiori. You can even request their "tavolo di Ulysse”, a table for two set up directly on the coastal rocks with private waitstaff.
For a quick lunch: in Positano, the best sandwiches are at Casa e Bottega, where there is a creative selection along with healthy fruit smoothies. In Amalfi, grab a paper cone full of fried seafood and vegetables at “Cuoppo d’Amalfi.
For the sweet tooth: the most famous pastry shop on the coast is Sal de Riso, where the ricotta pear torte was invented. You'll find it along the water's edge in Minori, with an adjacent bistrot serving pizza and other simple dishes. In Positano, the best pastries are from La Zagara, and in Amalfi Da Pansa is a must for chocolate, candied orange peel, and other treats!
Restaurants on the Amalfi Coast