Amalfi Coast towns: Positano, Amalfi or Ravello?

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One coast, several towns

The Amalfi Coast runs for around 50 kilometres south of Naples, where mountains drop straight into the sea and towns cling to the slopes. The whole coastline is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our Amalfi Coast guide covers what to do. This page is about where to base yourself.

Choosing a town

Positano

The most photographed, its pastel houses stacked above a small beach. Beautiful, expensive and full of steps. For atmosphere, if you do not mind climbing.

Amalfi

The town that gave the coast its name, with a cathedral, a busy square and boats in every direction. The most practical base.

Ravello

High above the sea, with gardens, villas and a summer music festival. Quieter and more romantic, but far from the beach.

Praiano and Minori

Smaller and better value, and calm in the evening.

Getting around

The SS163 coast road is narrow and winding, and summer traffic is heavy. SITA buses and the ferries between Salerno, Amalfi and Positano are often quicker than driving. Honest advice: collect a hire car when you leave the coast, not while you stay on it.

Where to stay

Our Amalfi Coast hotel guide picks hotels town by town. Prefer a city base with day trips? See our Naples guide.

Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Le Sirenuse

Frequently asked questions about the Amalfi Coast

Which Amalfi Coast town is best to stay in?

Amalfi is the most practical thanks to its boats and buses. Positano has the most atmosphere, and Ravello is the quietest.

How do you get from Naples to the Amalfi Coast?

Take a train or ferry to Sorrento or Salerno, then a bus or boat onwards. In summer some ferries run direct from Naples.

When is the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast?

May, June and September. Many hotels and ferry routes close between November and March.