The Amalfi Coast is one of the most picturesque stretches of coastline in the world, featuring dramatic cliffs, pastel-colored villages, and crystal-clear waters.

For 2025/2026, here is a guide to the top towns and essential travel tips.

🏘️ Top Towns to Visit

Positano: The most famous and “Instagrammable” town. It is known for its steep, narrow streets and pebble beaches. It is a must-visit but can be very expensive and crowded [06:50].
Amalfi: The historical and commercial heart of the coast. It’s a great base for transportation because it has a major ferry port and bus hub [07:25].
Ravello: Perched high above the sea, this town offers the most stunning panoramic views. It is quieter and more refined than the seaside towns [07:07].
Atrani: A tiny, charming village right next to Amalfi. It feels much more local and is often overlooked by the main tourist crowds [07:19].
Sorrento: While technically just outside the official Amalfi Coast, it is the most popular starting point. It is more budget-friendly and offers easy access to Pompeii and Capri [08:02].

The Ferry: By far the most scenic and efficient way to travel between towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Salerno. It helps you avoid the heavy road traffic [11:35].
SITA Bus: The local public bus system. It is very affordable but can be extremely crowded, often with standing room only. Buy tickets at local “Tabacchi” shops or cafes beforehand, as you cannot buy them on the bus [10:00].
Vespa: A “bucket list” way to see the coast. However, the roads are very narrow and winding with heavy bus traffic, so only do this if you are a confident rider [12:24].
Avoid Driving: Parking is extremely scarce and expensive. If you rent a car, it’s best to leave it at your hotel and use public transport [05:03].

Lemon Everything: The region is famous for its giant “Amalfi Lemons.” Try the lemon pasta, lemon sorbet (often served in a hollowed-out lemon), and authentic Limoncello [18:41].
Eat Late: Locals typically don’t eat dinner until 8:00 PM or later. Many of the best non-tourist restaurants won’t even open until 7:30 PM [22:52].
Reservations: For popular towns like Positano, booking a table in advance is essential, especially if you want a view [20:07].
Table Charge (Coperto): Most restaurants add a small fee (usually €1-€3 per person) just for sitting down. This is normal and not a tip [24:34].

Best Time to Visit: Mid-October is a “sweet spot” with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The peak summer months (July/August) can be uncomfortably busy and hot [15:20].
Comfortable Shoes: Be prepared for thousands of stairs. This is not the place for high heels; bring sturdy walking shoes or sandals with good grip [09:00].
Beach Reality: Most beaches are pebbly or rocky, not soft sand. Consider bringing or buying water shoes to make getting in and out of the ocean easier [25:39].
Dress Code: If you plan to visit the beautiful cathedrals (like the one in Amalfi), you must have your shoulders and knees covered [31:28].