Where to Stay on Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is a dream travel destination for so many people; from its dramatically rugged coastlines to its quintessential stacked colorful homes, and the delicious southern Italian cuisine. When planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, deciding on which town or towns to stay in can be quite daunting and confusing.
There isn’t just one ideal town to make your base during your trip, but rather numerous things to offer depending on what is most important to you.
Positano
When most people think of the Amalfi Coast, the images that come to mind are likely those of Positano.
Positano is the classic seaside gem of Italy perched high on the rocks of the Amalfi Coast. Many people would argue that Positano is without a doubt the best town to stay on the Amalfi Coast, but it’s quite subjective depending on your needs and interests.
The average cost of a room per night in Positano is $300 making it the most expensive town on the Amalfi coast. If you can afford to stay in Positano, it’s a truly beautiful and romantic town to experience (and sip a lemon granita), but if you’re on a budget, stay in a different town and make the day trip to Positano.
Best for: Those looking for a quintessential Amalfi town stay as well as those looking for where to stay on the Amalfi Coast that has great nightlife.
Downsides: Positano is the most expensive Amalfi town, and there is a lack of access if you’re unable to walk the steep steps to the top of the town.
Amalfi
The medieval town of Amalfi is unofficially the capital of the Amalfi Coast. This town is located centrally within the Amalfi Coast making it easy to reach but also quite touristy for that reason.
Amalfi is a gorgeous town to wander around and take in the medieval architecture with its interesting streets and alleys. Fully saturated with maritime history and artisanal shops, Amalfi is without a doubt the perfect Amalfi Coast destination if you’re looking to get a bit more out of your trip than beach days and espresso.
The town of Amalfi is frequently known by Italians as “the pearl of the Mediterranean”, and by visiting this exquisite town you will understand too.
Best for: Due to its central location within the Amalfi Coast, the town of Amalfi is the best place to stay on the Amalfi Coast without a car. Amalfi has the highest number of buses and ferries with services to the rest of the Amalfi Coast, in comparison with the rest of the towns.
Downsides: Being the capital of the Amalfi Coast region, Amalfi is still going to be quite expensive to stay in but still not as much in comparison to Positano.
Ravello
Founded in the 5th century as a shelter from the barbarian invaders, Ravello is now known as a serene and peaceful town located between the towns of Atrani and Minori.
While the town is not coastal, there is no beach but there isn’t a loss of idyllic spots to relax and find peace. There’s a reason why countless creative figures historically have used Ravello as a tranquil retreat to find inspiration.
Spend time in Ravello taking in the fresh seaside air, wandering its many gardens, and maybe even attend the Ravello Music Festival.
Best for: Ravello is great If you’re looking to stay somewhere on the Amalfi Coast for your honeymoon or somewhere with a laid-back yet romantic ambience. Ravello also has the cleanest air of all the towns on Amalfi, so if this is a priority for you, keep that in mind!
Downsides: There is no beach directly within the town of Ravello, so if you’re looking to spend a lot of time at the beach in the town where you are staying, Ravello may not be Amalfi the town for you.
Minori & Maiori
Known to have the best pasta in all of Italy, the neighboring towns of Minori and Maiori are two wonderful contenders when looking for where to stay on the Amalfi Coast. The sister towns are easily reachable to each other by a short pedestrian walkway and are both UNESCO World Heritage sites with numerous significant historical buildings.
Both towns are havens for food lovers due to countless local food options as well as renowned restaurants, ranging from local pizza restaurants to glamorous Michelin-starred restaurants. Make sure if you visit or stay in either Minori or Maiori to try the “Nduneri” pasta, a local speciality of the towns.
Best for: The towns of Minori and Maori are best for those traveling with little ones and those looking for the best area to stay on the Amalfi Coast as a family. Minori & Maiori are also quite flat and small making them easy to get around on foot without needing transport to the towns.
Downsides: Due to the small size of each town, Minori & Maiori don’t have extensive accommodation options. So if you’re booking late or would like to have wide options for accommodation, Minori or Maiori may not be the best town to stay in on the Amalfi coast.
Praiano
Perched between the towns of Amalfi and Positano, is leisurely Praiano. With fewer tourists in comparison with Amalfi or Positano, Praiano is an idyllic Amalfi Coast town full of locals looking to welcome you.
Praiano also offers many beaches nearby as well as hikes in the area such as a great spot to spend time hiking the Path of the Gods. Some may say Praiano also has the best sunsets and views on all of the Amalfi Coast; so if you’re looking for a romantic trip but cheaper than Positano, Praiano may be the spot for you!
Best for: Praiano is best for those looking to stay somewhere on the Amalfi Coast with the best opportunity to spend time outdoors. Praiano has some of the best beaches on Amalfi and also is a great starting point for many hikes on the Amalfi Coast.
Downsides: Due to the popularity of Praiano’s beaches and views, it can become quite crowded visiting the beach and other popular vistas.
Many people staying in more popular towns will come here to spend time at the beach, even if Praiano itself is quiet with more locals than tourists.