Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast with or without car
If you are driving the car and you are wondering where to stay on the Amalfi Coast you should keep reading this guide to find out that Maiori or Sorrento could be the possible destinations.
But what if you do not have a car? Well, there are other great places to stay on the Amalfi Coast, like Amalfi, the bus hub, or Positano, well connected to Naples.
You may be not aware that there are actually 10 great towns to base yourself on the Amalfi Coast, everyone with their own character, style, advantage and drawback.
I have compiled below a comparative table to show the best and worst of each choice. That is a great starting point to start your investigation. From there you can click on a more detailed description of each town.
But without further ado, let’s jump to the juicy stuff.
Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast with or without a car – in a nutshell
Here below is a table that compares the best towns to stay on the Amalfi Coast (sorted alphabetically) based on beaches, architecture/character, restaurant quantity/quality, ease of access by bus and ease of parking your car (in case you drive there).
The rating is 1 to 5, with 5 being the best. You can click either on the town name or the reason to stay there (second column) for more information.
Town Name | Where to stay in the Amalfi Coast for | Suggested Hotel | Beaches | Architecture & Character | Restaurants | Nightlife | Bus Access | Car parking |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Agerola | Hiking | Dafne | NA | 3 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
Amalfi | Without a Car | B&B Valenti | 3 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 2 |
Atrani | Budget (Value for money) | Gabry & Dodò | 2 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 3 |
Erchie | Unique | Bougainvillaea | 3 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
Maiori | Families, Beaches | La Casa di Zeffiro | 5 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 2 |
Minori | Budget (Best Deals) | Hotel Europa | 4 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 3 |
Positano | For Couples For Nightlife | La Nunziata or Torre Trasita | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3 | 1 |
Praiano | Couples (Seclusion) | Giardino Dei Limoni | 2 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 3 |
Ravello | Honeymoon | Palazzo Avino | NA | 5 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Sorrento | With a Car, Nightlife | Palazzo Marziale | 2 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
There are multiple ways to visit the Amalfi Coast: bus, boat and car. I personally suggest using the boat and the bus. If you are driving around the country and you plan a trip to this amazing part of Italy, then I suggest parking the car at your accommodation and getting around by public transportation.
Here below I expand the description of the best places to stay on the Amalfi Coast based on the type of holiday or breakaway you have in mind. However, keep reading for a more detailed description of each town.
- Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast without a car: Amalfi is at the centre of the coast’s extensive public transport network. This includes the public SITA bus system. In Amalfi, you can also easily take a ferry to the best destinations of the Amalfi Coast, like Positano and, of course, you walk to nearby towns like Atrani. Read more below on a stay without a car
- Best place to stay on Amalfi Coast with a car: wherever you go you will have a hard and expensive time finding a parking spot. Sorrento is probably the best option, although it’s not technically on the Amalfi Coast. From Sorrento, you can take your car to one of the most scenic roads in Italy, or enjoy a ferry ride to your destination on the Amalfi Coast. You can also easily organise day trips from Sorrento to the island of Capri and Ischia, besides visiting the city of Naples.
- Where to stay in Amalfi Coast for couples & romance: of course, Positano is the most picturesque and charming town on the Amalfi Coast, however, it can be very busy, especially in July and August. For a more secluded option, you should check out Praiano, a beautiful, little village with amazing views of the water. It is less known to tourists and is therefore ideal if you want to experience the magical Amalfi Coast without the crowding. Villa Gianlica is the dreamy accommodation, especially for that amazing pool, il Giardino Dei Limoni may not have a pool but what a view! And such a great price too. You can read more below about a stay with your partner.
- Best place with nightlife on the Amalfi Coast: Positano truly comes alive at night and is home to some of the hippest clubs on the Amalfi Coast, a few bars and late-night restaurants. All these are conveniently close to each other so if you and your party decide to go location hopping, all you need are comfortable shoes to walk in. Another possibility is Sorrento. Read more below about the local nightlife
- Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast for families: Maiori is a great place for family trips. This active beachside town is packed with activities from shopping to water sports facilities for everyone to enjoy. It is also home to the largest sand beach on the coast which the kids will definitely enjoy. Read more below about a family stay
- Best place to stay on a budget: Minori is known for its laid-back vibes and beautiful panoramic views. It is one of the least crowded towns on the Amalfi Coast, making it ideal if you do not want too much going on around you. Minori is also pretty affordable to visit and you are highly unlikely to experience visitor price markups for accommodation, transport and attractions. Another possibility is the small town of Atrani, with probably better value-for-money accommodations. Read more below about a budget stay
- Best town to stay in Amalfi Coast for a honeymoon: Ravello is undoubtedly one of Amalfi’s most magical towns. It is best known for being home to the iconic Cliffside Gardens, which offer amazing views from all parts of the town. It is also home to some of the most beautiful villas, resorts, and holiday homes for you as a newlywed couple to pick from. And while you are here, maybe you could catch a concert at the Ravello Summertime Festival. The Palazzo Ravino is the most luxurious place to stay in style, the Villa Piedimonte is a great alternative, maybe not so luxurious, but, so charming! Read more below about a stay in Ravello for a honeymoon
- Best base for hiking Amalfi Coast: Agerola didn’t get the nickname “Little Switzerland” for no good reason. It is home to beautiful rolling hills and steep cliffs which, besides offering great views, are ideal if you are a hiking enthusiast. The town itself is pretty laid back with a lot of cool places to visit, so you will have a lot to do and see when you are not up in the trails. Dafne Holiday is the perfect place to stay, for the gorgeous view (see photos here), the breakfast, the host and I could keep going.
- Unique place to stay on the Amalfi Coast: Erchie is one of the smallest settlements on the Amalfi Coast, but this is not what makes it unique. The picturesque seaside hamlet is home to several orchids, including lemon trees and olive gardens. It is also home to iconic buildings like the medieval watchtower. La Pavoncella AirBnb has one of the best views on the Amalfi Coast (up to 5 people), and the Casa Vacanze Bouganvillea is one of the best bargains around, still with a unique view.
- Where to stay for the beaches: the town with the biggest beach and choice is Maiori. It’s mostly an organised beach with small areas for free access. Alternatively, check out Minori. With a much smaller beach, but still as nice.
- How long to stay on the Amalfi Coast: If you are short on available time, you can organise an Amalfi Coast itinerary even in 3 days. My suggested length would be of 5 days on the Amalfi Coast, you would have enough days to explore most of the towns, take a boat between them and stop at some incredible beaches and spots. With a longer length of time, you can plan a tour of the Amalfi Coast including also Naples, Capri, Ischia and other destinations such as Sorrento.
I love this part of Italy so much that I even started a section with a full blog of the Amalfi Coast, including the ultimate guide to the region.
Here below is a great video including a more visual presentation.
Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast without a car – Amalfi
The drive along the Amalfi Coast is an experience by itself, however, it can be a bit scary if you are not used to the Italian traffic, even more, if you usually drive on the left side.
If you decide to do this trip using public transportation, then the best town to stay on the Amalfi Coast without a car is Amalfi
The main reason is that it’s so well connected to Napoli with a direct bus, as well as to the east (Positano, Sorrento, etc) and the west side (Maiori, Vietri, etc) of the Amalfi Coast.
I suggest checking the SITA SUB website for the timetable of all the buses (select “Campania” as a region”)
From Amalfi, you can also take a fast ferry to Capri, Ischia, Sorrento, Positano and other destinations (see this website for the timetable).
Amalfi, besides being a beautiful town, is also so practical, a great base to visit this unique part of Italy.
While at Amalfi Town, definitely make a point to visit the iconic Cattedrale di Sant’ Andre.
The Amalfi Museum of Maritime History is another awesome place to visit for a little taste of the town’s rich history.
Wondering where you can grab a bite to eat?
Marina Grande is a great option if you are in the mood for Italian cuisine. They offer a fine-dining experience with amazing selections from fresh seafood to scrumptious pasta dishes.
Eolo is another great option if you are looking for great views and an amazing ambience with your dinner.
The restaurant serves some of the best authentic Mediterranean dishes and offers an extensive wine list to wash down the yummy dinner.
B&B Valenti guest house is a great place to stay if you want easy access to the town and the beach in Amalfi town.
The beautiful rooms offer amazing views of the cliff-side buildings (see photos here). You will also get complimentary Wi-Fi, private parking as well as access to an on-site bar.
Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast for nightlife
There are two towns on the Amalfi coast that stand out for their nightlife: Positano and Sorrento
In saying that, do not expect anything like Ibiza or Mykonos of course
Positano (restaurants and chill-out drinks)
By day, Positano is a busy tourist town with a great beach to relax.
However, it is at night that you truly get to see how electric this coastal settlement can be.
Other than admiring the glistening night lights that make the town look truly magical, you have a lot of options for activities to fill your night owl itinerary.
Kick the evening off with a trip to Terrazza Cele for dinner.
They are particularly known for their seafood options with fresh catches. Plan your meal around sunset for the best views of the ocean.
Once you are all fuelled up and ready to go, head to the Buca di Bacco for a late drink
Finally, head to Music on The Rocks. This is an eclectic nightclub where the party never seems to stop.
With amazing DJ lineups and a beautiful cliff-side view from the club’s terrace, you will truly have a night to remember.
The best places to stay in Positano are on the south coast. That is where you can experience the best sunsets.
La Nunziata offers one of the best value for money in Positano, especially considering you will get an entire 1BR where you can sleep up to 4 people.
The location is great, being next to the bus stop (in case you want to visit other destinations on the coast) and within walking distance of the Positano restaurants area (15-20 minutes)
The Alcione Residence is another of my favourites, with its amazing view of Positano and the sea (see photos here), all at a great price too. But it’s more often than not booked out.
The hotel is managed by two lovely ladies that provide plenty of tips. The rooms are big and the balcony is the perfect spot for a romantic pizza dinner, just place your order.
Sorrento (theatre, bars and clubs)
Although Sorrento is not technically on the Amalfi Coast, it can easily be used as a base to visit it.
Indeed, there are many differences between Sorrento and Positano, and the remaining part of the Amalfi Coast, however, you can reach all these destinations with a short bus ride or a ferry/boat.
Sorrento is famous for its iconic churches and seaside views. However, it is an incredibly vibrant night scene that makes this town truly magical.
It is a great place if you want an entertainment-filled evening with options like theatres, night gallery shows and a bunch of pubs and clubs for you to visit on your nighttime escapades.
One of these pubs you should definitely check out is the Peronius Ristopub. It is a gastropub perfect for a craft beer or a cocktail as you start your night.
Filou Club is one of the best night hubs to check out. They are best known for their outstanding craft cocktails and live music. It is a great place to stop by for a sweet buzz before you get down and wild with Sorrento’s nightclubs.
Finally, for some dancing, make your way over to The Shot Bar Sorrento.
In addition to the great music and exciting vibes, this nightclub is famous for its “syringe shots”.
Understanding where to stay in Sorrento for its amazing nightlife is not as easy because the town offers so many accommodations. Moreover, there are a few great alternatives just outside the historical centre.
The Palazzo Marziale is a beautiful boutique guesthouse with colourful yet classy rooms and amazing villa-style architecture (see photos here).
It is within walking distance of a lot of Sorrento’s attractions, including restaurants and clubs, still in a silent spot. They also offer breakfast to help ease that hangover and the munchies after a long night of partying.
Best place to stay on the Amalfi Coast for families – Maiori
Maiori is a charming little town with a lot to offer your family.
First off, it is significantly less crowded and less busy than other tourist hubs.
That way, you can walk around town without worrying about losing your kids in the crowd.
It also offers access to a long beautiful beach which will be perfect for family days out with everything from beach picnics to sandcastle building.
If you are travelling with younger children, make a point to stop by the Parco Giochi.
This small playground features swings, slides and a lot more.
You also have beautifully decorated benches on which to enjoy the view of the water as your kids play.
Once you are done exploring the town or bumming out at the beach, you should consider visiting Dedalo for their amazing pizza, which the kids will undoubtedly enjoy.
They also serve seafood and wine if the adults in the family would like some variety.
After your meal, treat your kids to something sweet at Sweet Show. This dessert and coffee shop offers a variety of sweet treats, with their most popular being the unique gelatos and sorbets.
About the accommodation, La Casa di Zeffiro is a beautiful holiday home with amazing balcony views of the rest of Maiori and the sea (see photos here).
It has 2 bedrooms (ideal if travelling with 1 or 2 kids) and it’s located minutes from the beach and the restaurant area, still very quiet.
Three other great alternatives are A due passi (2BR secluded), Domus (3BR up to 6 people) and Chiaro di Luna (1BR, value for money).
Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast for couples
Positano (picturesque and memorable)
The most picturesque place is, without a doubt, Positano.
This is where you will be able to get the best views, and the most charming and luxurious places to stay.
You will love the amazing views from most of the accommodations, the restaurants and the bars.
It is my favourite place to stay on the Amalfi Coast, but it is certainly not cheap. I find early June the best time to experience Positano, warm enough with long sunny days, but still without the massive number of tourists around.
Try to avoid July and August and most weekends, especially long weekends.
Get also ready to climb up and down the many steps, but that’s part of the romantic stay and the unique views from most areas.
If you are wondering where to stay in Positano, the quick answer would be on the southern side of the bay. That is when you get the most spectacular sunsets. But also the accommodation with the highest prices.
One of the biggest tips I can give you is that you should book well in advance, especially if you visit Positano in the summer months.
La Nunziata offers one of the best value for money in Positano, especially considering you will get an entire 1BR where you can sleep up to 4 people.
The location is great, being next to the bus stop (in case you want to visit other destinations on the coast) and within walking distance of the Positano restaurants area (15-20 minutes)
An amazing place in Positano, for a unique and memorable stay, is Torre Trasita
The location is unbeatable, close to the action, and in an unbelievable tower off the cliff with a 360 degrees view.
If you are on a honeymoon, you should book the Villa Boheme for its exclusive luxury suites that you will remember for a long long while.
Praiano (seclusion)
For more isolation and privacy, I would suggest staying in Praiano, off the main touristic route.
In saying that, you will find in town many awesome attractions like Giovanni Bernardo Lama’s famous painting collection and the close-by village of Vettica Maggiore which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Despite all that it offers, Praiano has maintained a laid-back vibe, and it is great if you are looking for a romantic secluded stay.
My favourite accommodations in Praiano are Giardino Dei Limoni (one of the best views in Praiano), Albadamare Hotel (boutique stay), Casa Rosetta (1BR with an amazing view) and Maresca (sea view with breakfast)
Best town on the Amalfi Coast for a honeymoon – Ravello
Ravello is a small coastal town best known for its Ravello Music Festival where you can hear a lot of great music and fun pop-up shops for you to collect souvenirs.
Outside of the Ravello Festival, the town is pretty sleepy, chilled out, and secluded from the rest of the busy Amalfi Coast
The scenic town’s location on the hilltop is unique and amazing at the same time, offering breathtaking views of the coast from some of the most secluded and luxurious accommodations.
For these reasons, I suggest Ravello as the best town to stay on the Amalfi Coast if you are on a honeymoon, so dreamy.
One of the best places to stay for a honeymoon on the Amalfi Coast, and possibly Italy, is the Palazzo Avino
You will remember it as one of the most memorable accommodations in your life, with plenty of luxury and an impossible view from the pool, the outdoor gym, the breakfast tables…literally, from everywhere, room included
Another charming option, so beautiful, however more economical than the Palazzo is the Villa Piedimonte.
More reading on the Amalfi Coast
- The Ultimate Guide to the Amalfi Coast – The starting point for first timers
- Best itineraries of the Amalfi Coast for 3, 4, 5, 7 or 10 days (with maps and daily plans)
- 33 great experiences to have on the Amalfi Coast, including a few hidden gems
- Positano or Amalfi – Which one is better
- Best area to stay in Positano (with a great view and on a budget)
- Amalfi Coast Vs Italian Riviera
Where to stay on a budget
Indeed, the Amalfi Coast is not a destination famous for being budget-oriented.
In saying that you can still find towns where both accommodations and restaurants have local prices (not inflated by international tourism)
Minori has probably the best budget-oriented accommodations, meanwhile, Atrani has probably the better value ones.
Minori (budget stay)
Minori is one of the Amalfi Coast’s best-kept secrets.
The picturesque little town is home to the iconic Villa Marittima Romana and the Basilica of Santa Trofimena.
It is also known for being home to some of the most famous pasta mills and you should definitely not leave town without trying these creations.
In Minori, the Ristorante ‘a Ricetta would be a great place to stop for its authentic pasta dishes.
It is an average price-point restaurant that offers great value for money with amazing food and a lovely ambience.
You could also check out Midnight Sun Minori for some low-budget eats. They offer everything from pizzas to panini at really convenient prices.
Minori is also an awesome place for its proximity to the beach.
Hotel Europa is a pretty decent low-budget accommodation option if you want to be close to all the action without spending too much.
The simple hotel rooms offer beautiful street views which are particularly magical at night (see photos here). You also get to enjoy free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and discounts for local restaurants and the nearby spa.
Atrani (value for money)
Atrani is technically the smallest municipality in all of Italy, but where it lacks in size, it more than makes up for history and nature.
The little-known beach resort town is a true cultural and historical hub with attractions like the Torre Dello Ziro Fortress and the Grotto of the Saints, 5km from the town, which is a beautiful natural cave that opens up into a lemon tree orchid.
Atrani is also home to a few baroque architectural gems, including the Church of San Salvatore de’ Birecto.
For a lovely stay in this tiny village, you should check Gabry & Dodò Hause, nestled between Atrani and Castiglione Beach, and a stone away from Amalfi.
Besides the perfect location, this massive 1BR (80sqm) offers a great view and plenty of space to sleep up to 4 people.
It’s not that easy to find accommodations in Atrani. These are two other great options. The first one is Vicolo 23 House, with absolutely stunning interior design, so characteristic. The second is Villa La Mura, for one of the best views of the Amalfi Coast
More reading on destinations close to the Amalfi Coast
Frequently asked Questions on where to stay in the Amalfi Coast
Positano vs Amalfi: which one is better?
Both towns are pretty awesome destinations packed with activities, attractions and views. There are, however, differences that can make one or the other a better destination to stay. To start, Positano lanes and streets offer a spectacular view but they are all so steep. Amalfi is more walkable, flat and with a nice shopping area. I wrote a dedicated post about the main differences between Amalfi and Positano that you should check out, including also where to find the best beaches.
Best time to visit the Amalfi Coast
If you want to avoid the major crowds, spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to October) are great travelling windows. You will also enjoy comfortable temperatures between 20 and 25C (68 and 77F degrees), perfect for exploring and beachside fun.
How to move around the Amalfi Coast
You can get around the Amalfi Coast by bus, ferry or your own car. I have timetables and ferry schedules on my guide.
Is Sorrento on the Amalfi coast?
This town is not part of the Amalfi Coast, however, it is a great place to explore and possibly to stay to visit the coast itself. Sorrento is probably the most lively place in winter with great accommodations at a fraction of the summer price. A very romantic town, connected to the coast by bus or boat. There are a few fantastic places to stay in Sorrento including both the historical centre and the nearby towns, with great beaches, views or more budget-oriented accommodations.
Go back using the below menu
- 1 Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast with or without a car – in a nutshell
- 2 Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast without a car – Amalfi
- 3 Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast for nightlife
- 4 Best place to stay on the Amalfi Coast for families – Maiori
- 5 Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast for couples
- 6 Praiano (seclusion)
- 7 Best town on the Amalfi Coast for a honeymoon – Ravello
- 8 Where to stay on a budget
- 9 Frequently asked Questions on where to stay in the Amalfi Coast
Photo credits on a few photos in this post
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