Amalfi City Guide

The heart of Amalfi beats in the Piazza del Duomo, dominated by the magnificent Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea. This architectural masterpiece features a striking polychrome facade and a grand staircase that commands the square. Inside, the Cloister of Paradise offers a serene escape with its Moorish-style arches and lush garden, housing the remains of the city's ancient nobility.

Beyond the religious landmarks, delve into the town's industrial past at the Museo della Carta, located in a 13th-century paper mill. Here, the ancient tradition of handmade 'bambagina' paper is brought to life. For those seeking natural beauty, a hike through the Valle delle Ferriere reveals a lush landscape of waterfalls and rare ferns, offering a refreshing contrast to the sun-drenched coast.

Spend the afternoon wandering the narrow, white-washed alleys of the historic center, where hidden shops sell local limoncello and intricate ceramics. The waterfront, particularly at Marina Grande, provides the perfect vantage point to admire the colorful houses clinging to the cliffs while enjoying the gentle Mediterranean breeze.

To experience Amalfi through the eyes of its residents, step away from the bustling harbor and venture into the lush Valle delle Ferriere. This tranquil nature reserve feels worlds away from the coast, leading hikers past the stone skeletons of medieval paper mills that once powered the town’s economy. The air here is cool and scented with damp earth and wild ferns, providing a refreshing retreat.

For a different perspective, take the local bus or climb the ancient stone staircases up to the hamlet of Pogerola. Perched high on the cliffs, this quiet neighborhood is where locals go to escape the summer crowds. The village square offers a front-row seat to spectacular sunsets over the Mediterranean, paired with a slower, more authentic pace of life.

Finally, delve into the town’s industrious past at the Museo della Carta. Housed in one of Europe’s oldest paper mills, it honors the local "Bambagina" paper tradition. It serves as a tactile connection to Amalfi's history as a maritime powerhouse, showcasing the ingenious use of water power that defined the region for centuries.

Amalfi is an exceptionally safe destination for travelers, characterized by a welcoming atmosphere and a low rate of serious crime. While the town is tranquil, it is wise to remain vigilant in crowded spots like the Piazza del Duomo or during the busy summer ferry arrivals, as opportunistic pickpocketing can occur. Keeping personal belongings secure and being mindful of your surroundings in high-traffic areas will ensure a worry-free visit.

Navigating the town's unique geography requires its own set of precautions. The narrow, winding coastal roads are famous for their beauty but can be hazardous for pedestrians; always use designated paths and stay alert for passing buses and scooters. Additionally, the Mediterranean sun is potent, so staying hydrated and applying sunscreen is essential during the warm afternoon hours.

Navigating Amalfi is best done on foot within the town’s compact, historic center, where pedestrian-only streets lead to the magnificent Duomo. To travel along the coast, the SITA Sud bus system is the most affordable public option, with tickets starting around €2.40 for routes to nearby villages. However, the most scenic and efficient way to reach neighboring towns like Positano or Salerno is via ferry, with prices ranging from €10 to €15 depending on the distance.

Taxis are available at the harbor but are significantly more expensive than public transport. A private transfer from Naples International Airport (NAP) to Amalfi typically costs between €140 and €180, while a taxi to Positano can cost upwards of €70. Standard Uber services are not available in the region; instead, visitors rely on licensed taxis or pre-booked private drivers (NCC).

For those looking for a short excursion, walking to the neighboring village of Atrani takes only 15 minutes through a well-lit pedestrian tunnel. While car rentals are possible, they are generally discouraged due to the extremely narrow, winding roads and the high cost and scarcity of parking. During the peak summer season, always prioritize ferries to bypass the heavy traffic on the famous Amalfi Drive.

Shopping in Amalfi is a sensory delight, centered around the town’s most famous exports: handmade paper and vibrant lemons. For centuries, the town has produced "Bambagina," a thick, elegant paper made from cotton rags. Visitors can find exquisite stationery and art prints at long-standing paper mills. Meanwhile, the scent of citrus fills the air, drawing shoppers toward locally made limoncello, lemon-infused soaps, and artisanal chocolates.

Those seeking luxury should head to the boutiques lining Via Lorenzo d'Amalfi, where master cobblers craft bespoke leather sandals tailored to your feet in minutes. High-end ceramics, featuring the region’s signature bold yellows and blues, make for timeless investments. For more accessible treasures, explore the smaller side alleys to find charming hand-painted magnets, embroidered linens, and packs of sun-dried pasta that capture the essence of the Amalfi Coast without the premium price tag.

In Amalfi, tipping is viewed as a thoughtful gesture rather than a strict requirement. Most restaurants include a small "coperto," or cover charge, which covers the table setting and bread. While a service charge may occasionally be included, it is customary to round up the total or leave an additional 5% to 10% for exceptional hospitality. In casual settings like espresso bars or gelaterias, leaving small change is a simple way to show your appreciation for the local service.

For logistical services, rounding up your taxi fare to the nearest five Euro increment is standard, while hotel porters typically receive €1 to €2 per bag. All transactions are conducted in Euros (€), with a rough exchange rate of approximately 1 EUR to 1.09 USD. Keeping small denominations of cash on hand ensures you can easily reward the warm and attentive service encountered throughout this stunning seaside town.

The shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October offer the perfect balance for a visit to Amalfi. During these months, the Mediterranean weather is pleasantly warm without the stifling heat of mid-summer, making it ideal for exploring the town’s steep stairways and coastal paths. Visitors will find the landscape in full bloom or bathed in the golden light of autumn, with ferry services running regularly and most establishments fully operational.

While July and August bring vibrant energy and the best swimming conditions, they also usher in peak pricing and significant crowds that can make navigating the narrow streets a challenge. Conversely, visiting in late autumn or winter provides a peaceful, authentic glimpse into local life at a fraction of the cost, though many boutique hotels and restaurants close for the season. For the quintessential experience, aim for late spring to enjoy the coast at its most radiant and accessible.