Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast Without a Car
Are you traveling to Amalfi Coast without a car and wondering where to stay? There are so many options to choose from based on your budget and type of travel. In this blog post, I will discuss how to get around Amalfi Coast without a car and the best places to stay which are well connected by buses and ferries. It is a great alternative to Cinque Terre and Lake Como, offering panoramic views over the Tyrrhenian Sea easily accessible from Rome.
Amalfi Coast is famous for its picturesque towns, beaches, and stunning cliffside towns overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Gulf of Salerno. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site attracting jet setters from all over the world. There are 13 towns and villages on the Amalfi Coast: Amalfi, Atrani, Cetara, Conca de’ Marini, Furore, Maiori, Minori, Positano, Praiano, Ravello, Scala, Tramonti, and Vietri sul Mare. I have picked the 6 best towns, which, in my opinion, are a great base to explore the Amalfi Coast car-free.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Accommodation
When choosing accommodation on the Amalfi coast without having a car, it is important to consider several important factors.
- Choose a place within walking distance from a bus station or a ferry terminal.
- Consider accessibility to restaurants, shops, town center, and beaches.
- Don’t wait and book your accommodation as soon as possible. During the peak season, usually in summer, all the best accommodations on the Amalfi coast are booked out.
- Ferries between towns along the Amalfi coast operate between April and October. Prebooking usually won’t be needed, unless you need to take a ferry at a specific time of the day.
- Most popular towns such as Positano, are usually the most expensive ones. If you are travelling on a budget consider staying in less popular towns such as Maiori or bigger transportation hubs such as Sorrento.
Overview of the Best Towns on the Amalfi Coast
Amalfi – offers some of the best beaches in the area, and access to hiking trails. It has a ferry terminal and SITA bus station making it a good base to explore the Amalfi coast with no car.
Sorrento – is the transportation hub connecting Amalfi Coast to larger Italian towns such as Naples and Rome. Regular ferries are going to Capri Island from Sorrento.
Positano – the most popular and picturesque town on the Amalfi coast well connected to other towns with ferries and buses. Budget accommodation options here are very limited but if you stay here, expect to be neighbors of the rich and famous.
Maiori – is a less popular town on the Amalfi Coast with beautiful sandy beaches. It is a good base for families and people who prefer a more authentic experience with fewer crowds. Additionally, you can find several budget accommodation options in Maiori.
Ravello – is a peaceful town away from the coastal hustle. It is located on a hilltop and offers excellent panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The small beach is located down the cliffs around 20-30 minutes walking distance from the town center.
Atrani – is a small fishing village that managed to preserve its medieval buildings. Atrani has a small sandy beach directly in the town and is within walking distance from the larger busy Amalfi town. It is one of the most authentic towns on the Amalfi Coast well connected by buses and ferries.
How to Get to Amalfi Coast as a Car-Free Traveller
The closest international airport to Amalfi Coast is the Naples Capodichino Airport, located about 60 km (37 miles) to the north. But many people prefer to fly to Rome because flights are usually cheaper and more frequent.
Getting from Naples to Amalfi Coast
The easiest way to get from Naples to the Amalfi Coast is by getting a private transfer or taking a ferry. There are no direct buses between Naples and Amalfi Coast and it will take much longer compared to the other options.
By Taxi – 1 h 30 minutes ( around 200 Euros)
By Ferry – 2 hours (around 30 Euros)
Pro Tip: There are up to five ferries daily, but ferries only travel through the Gulf of Naples from April to October. So plan your trip accordingly.
Getting from Rome Airport (FCO) to Amalfi Coast
There is no direct connection between Rome and the Amalfi Coast but the trip is pretty straightforward. Here are the instructions for the fastest connection:
Step 1. Take a direct train to Salerno ( between 1 and 3 hours depending on connection)
Step 2. Take a ferry to your chosen town on Amalfi Coast (between 25 and 50 minutes)
Getting Around Amalfi Coast Without a Car
Amalfi Coast is well connected via public transportation. The only towns accessible by train are Sorrento and Vietri sul Mare, but the rest of the Amalfi coast is well connected by buses and ferries. You can choose the best travel option depending on your travel style, your budget, and the season of the year.
| Transport Type | Budget | Season |
| Ferry | $ | April- October |
| Boat tour | $$$ | April- October |
| Bus | $ | October – June |
The easiest way to explore the Amalfi coast car-free is by boat: either by public ferries connecting different coastal towns or boat tours. Public companies operating on the Amalfi Coast are travelmar, caremarand NLG.
Where to Stay in Amalfi Town
Amalfi is one of the most popular towns on the Amalfi Coast. The historic center of Amalfi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best way to get here is by ferry, yacht, or boat tour. It was quite crowded when we visited it in the summer. We were not surprised, given the central location of Amalfi town and good connections to other towns by ferries and buses.
The main advantage of staying in Amalfi town is that most of the attractions are within walking distance and if you want to explore other towns you can quickly hop on a ferry. Alternatively, you can easily take a bus to nearby towns like Positano, Sorrento, or Ravello. The buses are comfortable and offer breathtaking views of the coastline.
Amalfi, located at the foot of Monte Cerretois, is a starting point for scenic hikes, such as the famous Path of the Gods trail (also called Sentiero degli Dei). It has breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding landscapes. Technically, the hike starts from Bomerano, but all the buses leave there from Amalfi town. I recommend hiring a private driver or taking a tour to get to the trailhead hassle-free.
For beach lovers, Amalfi offers some of the best beaches in the area.
Luxury ($$$$)
Hotel Miramalfi – 9.4/10 Stars
This stunning 5-star hotel located on a cliff overlooking the Amalfi Coast, provides panoramic sea views. It features Mediterranean-style décor with an outdoor swimming pool and private beach access. Occasionally, they organize live music dinners.
This hotel is located directly at the beach, less than a 10-minute walk from Amalfi city center. The hotel provides an airport shuttle upon request, and Amalfi Bust Station is also nearby making it a great choice for guests staying without a car.
Mid-Range ($$$)
Hotel Marina Riviera – 9.4/10 Stars
This charming 4-star hotel features a cozy terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, a Turkish bath, and an outdoor pool. Each room features a balcony or large windows overlooking the promenade and the beach.
The hotel is situated on the seaside promenade walking distance to different beaches, cafes and restaurants. If you are traveling without a car, you can request an airport shuttle. Amalfi Bus Station is located only 200 meters away.
Budget ($$-$$$)
Albergo S. Andrea – 9.0/10 Stars
This 3-star family-run cozy hotel is located in the historic center of Amalfi, and most rooms overlook the majestic Cathedral. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, soundproofed windows, and a mini-bar. Free breakfast is included with the booking.
This hotel is an excellent choice for car-free budget travelers, located only 1-2 minutes walk away from the bus station, and within walking distance to restaurants and the main attractions in Amalfi.
Where to Stay in Sorrento
Although Sorrento is officially not part of Amalfi Coast, it is a transportation hub with easy access to buses, trains, and ferries. Located at the western end of the coastline, it is a gateway to the Amalfi Coast and a convenient base for car-free travel. From Sorrento, you can easily travel to iconic destinations such as Pompei, Capri, and popular towns along the Amalfi Coast on a day trip by ferry or bus.
The top experience I enjoyed doing in Sorrento was shopping for Limoncello, strolling along the charming streets in search of the best Gelato, and soaking in panoramic views of the Bay of Naples from the viewpoint near the harbor with Mount Vesuvius in the background.
Luxury ($$$ – $$$$)
Grand Hotel La Favorita – 9.5/10 stars
This luxury 5-star hotel in the heart of Sorrento, offers a sun terrace, a heated outdoor pool with views of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, and rooms with a balcony and mini-bar.
The hotel is located 10 minutes walk from Sorrento Harbor where you can catch ferries to the Capri island. If you will be arriving by train, Sorrento Circumvesuviana Train Station is only 650 meters away from the hotel. There are 5 beaches nearby only a few minutes walk away, making this hotel an excellent choice for car-free travellers.
Mid-Range ($$$)
Hotel Plaza – 9.0/10 stars
Hotel Plaza is located in the center of Sorrento near Piazza Tasso, the town’s main square.
If you are travelling by train, Circumvesuviana Railway Station is only 656 feet away. Restaurants, bars, shops, and public transport are all nearby making Hotel Plaza a great base for exploring the Amalfi Coast car-free.
Budget ($$-$$$)
Terra e Mare – 9.2/10 stars
Terra e Mare is an apartment rented by a private host in the heart of Sorrento. It is located only a few minutes walk away from the main square of Sorrento, shops, and restaurants. The apartment consists of 2 separate bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and a living room. This is a perfect choice for a group of friends traveling together or a family with children.
Where to Stay in Positano
Positano, sandwiched between the rocks and the sea, is one of the most beautiful and picturesque towns on the Amalfi Coast. Its colorful houses dotted on green hills overlooking the sea attract the rich and famous from the entire world. This is the main town found on postcards featuring the beautiful Amalfi coast. Due to its pedestrian-friendly layout, beautiful beaches, and easy access to buses and ferries, Positano is one of the best towns to stay on the Amalfi Coast without a vehicle.
With its stunning beaches, including the popular Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo Beach, Positano offers plenty of opportunities for swimming in the Tyrrhenian Sea. For less crowds, I recommend going to Arienzo Beach, located slightly further from the town center, and La Porta Beach, a hidden gem tucked away beneath the cliffs of Positano.
This cliffside village offers easy access to buses and ferries for people traveling without their car. The local Sitabus service connects Positano to nearby towns such as Amalfi and Sorrento. Alternatively, there are frequent ferry connections to other towns on the Amalfi Coast.
Luxury ($$$$)
Villa Magia – 9.6/10 stars
Villa Magia is a boutique hotel offering 2 outdoor pools, a restaurant, and terraces with panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea
Fornillo Beach is only a few meters away and the main attractions of Positano are within walking distance. The Positano Ferry Jetty is a 10-minute walk away and the SITA bus stop is only 200 meters away, making this boutique hotel a great base in Positano.
Mid-Range ($$$)
Buca Di Bacco – 9.3/10
This charming 4-star hotel is situated above Positano’s harbor, framed by rocky hills and a sandy beach. It offers panoramic views over the Tyrrhenian Sea and an authentic atmosphere.
Most rooms are equipped with air conditioners and have views over the Spiaggia Grande beach. SITA Bus Stop La Sponda is only a 5-minute walk from the property and the ferry terminal at the harbor is also withing walking distance.
Budget ($$)
Hostel Brikette – 9.9/10
The hostel is conveniently located just 100 meters from the nearest bus stop.
You can enjoy the breathtaking views from our spacious terrace or socialize at the bar. The beach and main shops are only a 12-minute walk away.
Where to Stay in Maiori
Maiori is a lesser-known town on the Amalfi Coast with fewer crowds. It is best suited for families looking for a nice sandy beach and relaxed atmosphere on the Amalfi Coast. We visited Maiori as a quick stop while cruising along the Amalfi Coast.
There are not so many exciting things to do in Maiori apart from relaxing on a wide sandy beach directly in the city center and strolling along a promenade stretching along the coast. The beach is well maintained with all the necessary facilities, such as sunbeds and umbrellas, changing rooms, and cafes.
Apart from the sandy beach, one of the main advantages of staying in Maiori is its affordability compared to other popular towns. Cheaper accommodation and easy access to nearby towns by bus and ferry make Maiori a great destination for budget-conscious visitors traveling without a car.
Where to Stay in Ravello
Ravello offers a convenient option for traveling along the Amalfi Coast without a car due to its serene hilltop location and accessibility via public transportation.
Named the city of music, Ravello is a peaceful town away from the coastal hustle. It provides a tranquil base for exploring the region without the need for a car. Top things to do in Ravello include visiting its historic villas and gardens, such as Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, attending cultural events like the annual Ravello Festival, and admiring panoramic views of the coastline from its elevated vantage points.
You can easily get around Ravello by foot as it’s almost a pedestrian-only town.
If you would rather not drive, you can catch one of the SITA buses connecting Amalfi to Ravello daily. Ferry options are also available. You can travel by ferry between Sollerno and Ravello with Travelmar, Positano Jet, and NLG. But be aware that you will need to walk around 20-30 minutes uphills to get from the harbor to the town center.
Where to Stay in Atrani
Atrani is one of the most photographed scenic towns on the Amalfi Coast. It is a small fishing village which managed to preserve its medieval buildings. Atrani has a small sandy beach directly in the town, one of very few on the coast.
As one of the smallest and most authentic towns on the coastline, Atrani provides a serene escape from the bustling tourist crowds while still being within walking distance of larger towns like Amalfi. You can take a 10-minute walk through a pedestrian tunnel which is like a secret passageway between Atrani and Amalfi town. Atrani is also well connected by buses and ferries.
Budget($$)
A Scalinatella – 9.7/10
This family-run hostel is located in the heart of Atrani near a beach only 10 minutes walk from Amalfi town. It is located near all major attractions, restaurants, and the bust station.
Conclusion
When choosing where to stay on the Amalfi Coast without a car, you need to consider several important factors. Firstly, prioritizing accommodation within walking distance of bus stations or ferry terminals is crucial for convenient transportation around the coastline. Additionally, accessibility to amenities such as restaurants, shops, and beaches enhances the overall experience. Booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons, ensures availability and secures preferred options. Finally, opting for lesser-known towns like Maiori or transportation hubs like Sorrento can offer more budget-friendly alternatives without sacrificing access to the region’s beauty and attractions.
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