If you’re planning a trip to southern Italy, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is Amalfi where to stay. The Amalfi Coast is one of the most breathtaking destinations in Europe – but choosing the right town can completely shape your experience.
Stretching 55 km along the UNESCO-listed coastline, the Amalfi Coast includes 13 towns, each with its own personality. Some sit directly on the water like Positano and Amalfi, while others like Ravello are perched high above the sea with dramatic views.
In this guide, I’ll help you decide where to stay on the Amalfi Coast based on your travel style, budget, and itinerary.
Not sure where to stay on the Amalfi Coast?
✓ Best town for first-time visitors
✓ Where to stay without a car
✓ Most romantic option
✓ Best base for Capri & Pompeii
✓ Budget-friendly alternatives
✓ Honest pros & cons of each town
Keep reading to find your perfect match.
Please note, this post may contain affiliate links.
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- Amalfi Where to Stay – What to Consider Before Booking
- Amalfi Coast Map
- Best Towns on the Amalfi Coast
- Positano – Luxury, Views & Iconic Amalfi Vibes
- Amalfi – Practical, Central & Well Connected
- Ravello – Romantic Views Above the Sea
- Sorrento – The Smart Base for Exploring the Region
- Quieter & Budget Alternatives
- Amalfi Where to Stay – Quick Summary
Amalfi Where to Stay – What to Consider Before Booking
What do you want from your trip?
Before choosing your hotel, ask yourself these important questions:
Your activities will define the best base.
- Dreaming of beach clubs and luxury hotels? → Positano
- Focused on sightseeing the coast? → Amalfi
- Planning trips to Naples, Pompeii or Capri? → Sorrento
Will you rent a car?
High season traffic on the Amalfi Coast is intense. Parking can cost €40–50 per day – if you find a spot. If you do rent a car, make sure your hotel guarantees parking.
Otherwise, choose a town with:
- Ferry connections
- Good bus access
- Easy transport from Naples Airport
When are you visiting?
Summer:
- Everything open
- Ferries running
- Crowded & expensive
Off-season (Nov–March):
- No ferries
- Fewer tourists
- Better prices
In shoulder season, larger hubs like Amalfi or Sorrento are safer choices.
Capri Island Day Trip: The Ultimate One-Day Itinerary
Amalfi Coast Map
Explore the Amalfi Coast & Islands by Ferry
If you’re staying in Naples, Sorrento or anywhere along the coast, ferries are often faster and more scenic than buses.
Why book with Ferryscanner?
- Compare routes between Naples, Capri, Sorrento & Amalfi
- Transparent prices & schedules
- Instant e-ticket delivery
- High-speed and regular ferry options
Check ferry routes and book tickets easily in advance.
Best Towns on the Amalfi Coast
Positano – Luxury, Views & Iconic Amalfi Vibes
Positano is the most photographed town on the Amalfi Coast – and often the first answer when people ask Amalfi where to stay for the ultimate experience.
Colorful houses cascade down the steep cliffside toward the sea, creating one of Italy’s most iconic views. The town has several beaches, including Spiaggia Grande (the main beach) and smaller coves like Fornillo. Keep in mind that most beaches along the Amalfi Coast are either dark sand or pebbled, and generally small. Positano’s main beach is one of the largest on the coast — but still relatively compact.
One important detail: in late afternoon the beach falls into shade due to the surrounding cliffs. This can actually be a blessing during peak summer heat, but don’t expect a dramatic sunset directly over the sea from here.
Positano is well connected in high season. Its central location makes it easy to explore other coastal towns. If your hotel is higher up the hill, you’ll face many stairs — sometimes hundreds. The upside? Better views and often quieter surroundings.
Parking is extremely expensive and limited. In high season, expect to pay €8/hour or €40–50 per day — if you find a spot at all. Driving here is stressful, especially in summer.
Hotel and restaurant prices are among the highest on the coast.
Best for:
First-time visitors
Luxury stays
Honeymoons
Lively atmosphere
Pros
- Stunning panoramic views
- Ferry connections in high season
- Lively town with restaurants & boutiques
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Endless stairs
- Parking is extremely difficult
Insider Tip
If you want convenience, stay close to Spiaggia Grande and the harbor area.
If you prefer views and quieter surroundings, book higher up — but check bus stop proximity carefully.
Where to Stay in Positano
Le Sirenuse *****
An iconic luxury hotel that has appeared in several films. Expect timeless elegance, panoramic terraces, a world-class restaurant, and one of the most exclusive stays in Positano.
Check availability and current prices here
Hotel Marincanto ****
Perfectly located with breathtaking sea views. This 4-star hotel offers private parking (available for an additional fee), making it a rare and convenient option in Positano.
See rooms and latest rates
Hotel Bougainville ***
A great mid-range option just 5–10 minutes’ walk from the beach and harbor. No on-site parking, but an excellent central location for exploring Positano on foot.
View photos and availability
Florida Residence
Spacious 2–4 person apartments about a 10-minute walk from the beach. Free parking included — a huge advantage on the Amalfi Coast.
Check apartment availability
Casa Roberta
One-bedroom apartment with a balcony, located higher up on the hillside. Ideal for couples seeking stunning views. Paid parking available.
See availability and book here
Amalfi – Practical, Central & Well Connected
Amalfi is often the smartest answer to Amalfi where to stay if you want convenience.
Although slightly smaller than Positano, Amalfi functions as one of the main transport hubs of the coast. Many buses start or pass through here, making it ideal if you plan to explore multiple towns.
The town is relatively flat compared to Positano, so staying near the center means fewer stairs – a huge advantage if you’re carrying luggage.
Amalfi has a larger beach than many neighboring towns, located right near the town center. There’s also a ferry port, making it easy to reach other destinations in high season.
Amalfi offers more mid-range accommodation compared to Positano. While still not cheap, it’s generally more accessible for travelers with moderate budgets. Driving and parking are easier than in Positano — though still not ideal. If you arrive by car, confirm parking in advance.
Amalfi is extremely popular with cruise groups and organized tours. During the day, especially late morning to afternoon, it can feel crowded.
It’s also geographically further from Capri, Sorrento, Pompeii and Naples compared to Sorrento – so day trips to those places take longer.
Best for:
Sightseeing
Without a car
Balanced budget
Hikers (Path of the Gods access)
Pros
- Large beach
- Ferry port
- Easier to walk than Positano
- More mid-range hotels
Cons:
- Busy with tour groups during the day
- Less romantic than Positano
Insider Tip
Stay within 5–15 minutes walking distance of the center if you want quieter evenings without being too far from transport.
Where to Stay in Amalfi
Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel *****
A spectacular luxury hotel set in a 13th-century monastery, just a 5-minute walk from Amalfi’s town center. Expect dramatic cliffside views, elegant rooms, and a truly unique historic atmosphere.
Check availability and current rates
DieciSedici
Comfortable rooms and 2–4 person apartments close to the town center. A practical option for families or small groups. Paid parking available nearby.
View rooms and latest prices
La Bambagina
A well-located mid-range hotel in the heart of Amalfi. Offers comfortable rooms and convenient access to transport. Paid parking available.
See availability and book here
Amalfi Luxury House
Excellent central location with stylish double rooms — ideal for couples who want to stay right in the middle of the action.
Check room availability
Holidays Baia D’Amalfi
One of the most affordable accommodations in Amalfi’s city center with solid guest reviews. A great value choice in an area where many budget options have poor ratings.
View current prices and reviews
Ravello – Romantic Views Above the Sea
Ravello is dramatically perched high above the coastline, offering some of the most breathtaking panoramic views on the Amalfi Coast.
Unlike Positano or Amalfi, Ravello is not directly on the water. Instead, it’s known for its elegant villas, historic gardens and peaceful atmosphere – especially in the evening after day-trippers leave.
It’s particularly popular for honeymoons and romantic weekend escapes.
Ravello has no ferry port. You can only reach it by bus, taxi or car from Amalfi. Because it sits higher up in the hills, it’s less convenient as a base if you plan to move around frequently.
During the day, Ravello receives many visitors coming from Amalfi. But once the buses leave in the evening, the town becomes calm and charming.
Accommodation ranges from some of the Amalfi Coast’s most luxurious hotels to simpler guesthouses.
Best for:
Romantic trips
Luxury stays
Quiet evenings
Pros
- Incredible views
- More peaceful at night
- Wide range of accommodations
Cons:
- not on the coast
- No ferry access
- Requires bus or car
Insider Tip
Stay near the historic center to avoid excessive uphill walking.
Popular activities
Why do I recommend Get Your Guide website or app? Because it offers free cancellation. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund!
Where to Stay in Ravello
Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, Amalfi Coast *****
One of the most luxurious 5-star hotels on the Amalfi Coast, set in a beautifully restored 11th-century building. Famous for its infinity pool overlooking the sea and impeccable service — a true bucket-list stay.
Check availability and current rates
Hotel Toro ***
A solid 3-star mid-range hotel located near the historic center. Comfortable rooms and a convenient base for exploring Ravello.
Check room availability
Maera B&B Ravello
Cozy double rooms right in the center of Ravello. Ideal for couples who want to stay within walking distance of the main square and gardens.
View current prices and reviews
Gala Residence Villa Giovanna
Highly rated accommodation offering 2–4 person rooms with free parking — a rare and valuable bonus on the Amalfi Coast.
Check availability here
Casa Vacanze Vittoria
Great value option with rooms and apartments for 2–4 guests. A practical and budget-friendly choice in Ravello.
See rooms and latest rates
Ravello is one of the most romantic places on the Amalfi Coast – book early in high season as the best-view rooms sell out quickly.
Sorrento – The Smart Base for Exploring the Region
Sorrento is technically not part of the Amalfi Coast, but when deciding Amalfi where to stay, it’s often the most strategic option.
Located on the Sorrentine Peninsula, it offers exceptional transport connections.
From Sorrento you can easily reach:
- Naples by train
- Pompeii and Herculaneum
- Capri by ferry
- Amalfi Coast towns by bus or boat
If the weather changes, you can easily adjust your plans – something that’s harder when staying in smaller coastal villages.
Sorrento is built on cliffs. The main port (Marina Piccola) is below the town center. Most popular hotels are located in the historic center, which is more convenient for transport access.
It’s larger and busier than Amalfi Coast towns and lacks the dramatic cliffside village charm of Positano.
Best for:
Visiting Capri
Pompeii & Naples
Off-season travel
Budget-conscious travelers
Pros
- Excellent transport
- Better value hotels
- Many restaurants open year-round
Cons:
- Not directly on the Amalfi Coast
- Fewer scenic beaches
Where to Stay in Sorrento
Bellevue Syrene *****
An elegant cliffside luxury hotel with spectacular sea views, private beach access, and refined interiors. Perfect for a romantic or upscale stay in Sorrento.
Check availability and current rates
Imperial Hotel Tramontano ****
A historic hotel with panoramic terraces and a fantastic central location. Combines classic Italian charm with easy access to the marina and town center.
View rooms and latest prices
Sorrento Colors&Suites
Modern apartments in a central location — ideal for families or small groups who want extra space and easy access to transport and restaurants.
See apartment availability
Sorrento Central and Sea View Flats
Spacious flats with central location and sea views. A comfortable choice for families or friends traveling together.
Check current prices
Sorrento Marida Rooms
Comfortable double rooms in a convenient location — a great option for couples seeking good value in Sorrento.
Check room rates
Ulisse Deluxe Hostel
A wallet-friendly option offering private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Excellent value for travelers who want comfort at a lower price point.
See availability and book
Quieter & Budget Alternatives
If you’re searching Amalfi where to stay on a budget, consider these towns:
- Praiano – quiet & scenic
- Maiori – sandy beaches
- Minori – family-friendly
- Salerno – transport hub outside the coast
Explore more Capri travel tips on my blog – Check it Now
Amalfi Where to Stay – Quick Summary
- First time? → Positano
- Best for exploring the coast? → Amalfi
- Best for Capri & Pompeii? → Sorrento
- Romantic getaway? → Ravello or Positano
- On a budget? → Maiori, Minori or Sorrento
- Without a car? → Amalfi or Positano (summer), Amalfi or Sorrento (off-season)
Need help planning your trip?
Here are my favourite sites to use when planning my trips:
Find your flight: Kiwi or use the airline’s direct website
Book your Hotel: Booking.com and Airbnb
Search for a rental car: Discovercars
Stay Connected Anywhere: Airalo eSIM
Book an unforgettable experiences: GetYourGuide website.
Source: Wandering Linda
Photos: Wandering Linda
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