By now, you’ve likely scrolled past countless photographs of the Amalfi Coast—pastel villages clinging to steep cliffs, turquoise waters glittering under the Mediterranean sun, and bougainvillea tumbling over stone walls. Beautiful, yes. But here’s the truth: no picture can prepare you for how breathtaking it feels to actually be there. Each morning I woke up, opened the shutters, and saw the water stretch endlessly beneath a hillside dotted with colorful homes, I had to pinch myself.
Because so many of you asked about this trip, I’ve gathered my thoughts, tips, and highlights. If you’ve been considering a visit—or even a return—you’ll understand why the Amalfi Coast is the kind of place that captures your heart for a lifetime.
Getting There
Traveling to the Amalfi Coast isn’t as simple as hopping on a plane and stepping onto the beach. For us, it involved a few moving parts. Flying out of Miami, we chose to land in Rome rather than Naples, the closest airport to the coast. Flights into Naples were considerably pricier, and we didn’t mind weaving Rome into the journey—it added another layer of adventure.
From Rome, a high-speed train whisked us to Naples in just over an hour. From there, we hired a driver to take us into Positano. Others opt for a ferry, but we preferred the ease of a private transfer and the chance to soak in the views along the way. Yes, it takes some effort, but the reward is more than worth it.
The Price Tag
Let’s be real: the Amalfi Coast is not a budget destination. With its global reputation as one of the world’s most enchanting coastlines, locals understandably charge a premium. Meals, hotels, transportation—all of it adds up quickly.
The key is planning ahead. Decide what experiences matter most to you, book as much as possible in advance, and stick to a realistic budget. I found myself repeating the phrase, “you can’t put a price on memories” more than once—but being mindful helps balance the splurge.
Where to Stay: Hotels or Airbnbs?
This is where personal preference comes in. If you love independence and don’t mind cooking or doing laundry, Airbnb offers authentic homes with character.
For us, though, a hotel was the clear choice. We wanted the luxury of service, amenities, and staff who could anticipate our needs. Waking up to breakfast on the terrace, having concierge recommendations at hand, and not worrying about the little chores of daily life made the experience feel effortless.
Are Luxury Hotels Worth It?
In one word: absolutely.
When traveling abroad, I tend to choose luxury hotels for the peace of mind they provide. Staff members usually speak fluent English, the security is reliable, and the amenities often go beyond expectations. At some properties, you may even find Michelin-starred restaurants, private terraces with sweeping views, or perks like complimentary boat tours along the coast.
We especially loved our stays at Le Sirenuse Positano, Belmond Hotel Caruso, and Capri Tiberio Palace. Each offered impeccable hospitality that elevated the entire trip.
Highlights and Hidden Gems
Yes, the food was extraordinary (we’re unabashed food lovers), but what made the Amalfi Coast feel truly special were the experiences beyond the restaurants.
One day, we hired Salvatore, a local guide in Ravello, who took us on winding back roads away from the crowds. He showed us secret viewpoints, tucked-away gardens, and even welcomed us into his home to share homemade limoncello with his family. It was the kind of personal connection that makes travel unforgettable.
Another highlight was Fontelina Beach Club in Capri. Though May was unusually chilly this year, the sun finally broke through, and we spent the afternoon sipping cocktails and swimming. The best part? The club was nearly empty, giving us the rare luxury of space along this usually bustling coast.
Getting Around
Should you rent a car? My advice: don’t.
The roads here are famously narrow, winding, and often perched on dizzying cliffs. The locals, who drive them daily, navigate with ease, but for visitors, it can be stressful and even dangerous. Instead, rely on hotel shuttles, ferries, or private drivers. We loved being chauffeured around by Salvatore in his vintage Fiat Jolly—it felt both charming and practical.
When to Go
Timing can make or break your experience. The sweet spot is between April and June. By May, the weather is usually warm but not scorching, the orange blossoms and jasmine perfume the air, and the bougainvillea is in full bloom. Best of all, the summer tourist crowds haven’t yet descended.
That said, be prepared for surprises. During our trip, May turned out cooler than expected. Coming from Florida, we didn’t mind the chill, but it was a reminder that nature always has the final say.
What Else to Expect
- Language: You don’t need to stress about speaking Italian—most locals speak English quite well. Still, learning a few phrases goes a long way in showing respect.
- Stairs: Prepare your legs (and your shoes). Most Amalfi towns are built directly into cliffs, meaning endless stairs, steep walkways, and cobblestone alleys. I’ll admit, I learned this the hard way—my sandals didn’t survive. Next time, I’ll pack comfier shoes for daytime exploring.
- Walking: Embrace it. Cars can’t reach many parts of town, and walking is the only way to discover those postcard-worthy hidden corners.
Final Thoughts
The Amalfi Coast is not just a destination—it’s an experience that lingers long after you’ve left. Yes, it requires effort to reach, it’s undeniably expensive, and you’ll climb more stairs than you can count. But the reward? Sunlit mornings overlooking the sea, meals that awaken every sense, and the warmth of locals who welcome you as if you’re family.
If you’ve been dreaming about the Amalfi Coast, stop second-guessing. Go. Because no photo, no story—even this one—can capture the magic of standing there in person, breathing it all in.