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Where to Stay in Amalfi

Where to Stay in Amalfi

Amalfi Campania, Italy Travel Guide

Amalfi Coast Accommodation Types

Lodging Categories

  • Hostels

    Budget-friendly dormitory beds or private rooms, often with communal spaces. Good for solo travelers or those with a limited budget. These present an opportunity to meet other travelers.

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

    Intimate, personalized experiences, often family-run. Breakfast usually included. Many have stunning views. They give a chance to connect with local hosts.

  • Guesthouses (Affittacamere)

    Smaller establishments offering private rooms without extensive services. A comfortable and often budget-friendly base for exploring.

  • Hotels

    From simple 2-star hotels to opulent 5-star luxury resorts. You find hotels with various amenities, including pools, private beach access, fine dining restaurants, and spas.

Alternative Stays

  • Villas & Apartments

    Popular for families, groups, or longer stays. These have self-catering facilities and more space. Explore options on Booking.com and Vrbo.

  • Agriturismo

    Farm stays, typically in the rural hills above the coast. They give a taste of rural life, often with farm-to-table dining.

  • Camping

    Direct camping options on the Amalfi Coast are very limited due to the steep terrain. More options exist further inland or north towards Naples and Sorrento.

Choosing Your Base Town

Each town along the Amalfi Coast has its unique character and atmosphere.

Amalfi

Good For
  • Historic, lively, and central atmosphere.
  • Excellent transport hub, facilitating coast exploration.
  • Good variety of restaurants and shops.
Considerations
  • Can be very crowded during peak season.
  • Noisy in the main square during peak hours.
  • Generally safe, exercise usual precautions against pickpocketing.

Positano

Good For
  • Iconic, postcard-perfect, fashionable village.
  • Has stunning, world-renowned views and chic boutiques.
  • Considered one of the most picturesque towns.
Considerations
  • Very expensive for accommodation and dining.
  • Extremely steep with many stairs, less suitable for mobility issues.
  • Can get very crowded, especially during summer.

Ravello

Good For
  • Elegant, serene, and elevated atmosphere.
  • Known for cultural events and panoramic gardens/villas.
  • It showcases breathtaking, expansive views of the coastline from above.
Considerations
  • Not on the coast; a bus or taxi is needed for ferry access.
  • Fewer direct amenities are present compared to Amalfi or Positano.
  • Very peaceful, a relaxing retreat.

Additional Town Overviews

Minori & Maiori:

Flatter, more family-friendly, with larger and more accessible beaches (a mix of sand and pebble). They have a more local vibe. Good value and less crowded.

Atrani:

The smallest town on the coast, charming, and authentic, nestled right next to Amalfi. Very picturesque, quiet, and retains an authentic local feel.

Booking Your Stay

Securing your lodging at the right time can enhance your experience.

Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (June-August): Book 6-12 months in advance, especially for popular towns like Positano or Amalfi, or specific luxury properties. Prices are at their highest.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Book 3-6 months in advance for the best selection and reasonable prices. Popular spots still fill up.
  • Low Season (November-March): Book 1-3 months in advance. You find more flexibility and lower prices during this period, though some properties may be closed.

Trusted Platforms and Policies

  • Booking Platforms: Use Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com for a wide range of options and guest reviews. Agoda is strong in Asia.
  • Direct Booking: Consider booking directly with hotels via their official websites for possible special deals. IHG Hotels is an option.
  • Negotiation: Negotiation for walk-in rates is generally not standard for hotels, especially during peak or shoulder seasons. Prices are usually fixed.
  • Deposits & Cancellations: Policies differ. Many accommodations request a deposit. Cancellation policies typically range from free cancellation up to 7-30 days before arrival.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

High Season Costs:

Accommodation prices are highest in July and August. They remain high in May, June, September, and October.

Low Season Savings:

The lowest prices are found from November to March, reflecting the off-season. Plan your visit accordingly to match your budget.

Early Booking Value:

Properties fill quickly, and last-minute options will be limited and very expensive during high season.

Recommended Stays

Here are some illustrative accommodation recommendations to assist your search. Always check current availability and reviews.

By Budget Level

Budget €30-€70/night

Hostel or Basic B&B (Sorrento/Minori) for simple, clean rooms, social atmosphere, near transport hubs. Basic Guesthouse (Maiori/Atrani) for good value, authentic local feel.

  • Explore budget options on Hostelworld.
  • Clean, welcoming, but limited services.
Mid-Range €70-€200/night

Mid-range Hotel or B&B (Amalfi/Praiano). These strike a good balance of location, comfort, and price. Often includes breakfast.

  • Central locations, comfortable rooms.
  • B&B with View (Praiano) often has stunning sea views from rooms or terraces, with well-regarded service and pools.

By Traveler Type Luxury

Luxury €200-€500+/night

Boutique Hotel (Positano/Ravello) features iconic properties with luxury amenities, beautiful pools, fine dining, and exceptional, world-class views. A sophisticated and indulgent experience.

Luxury Villa/Hotel Ravello

Exclusive and elegant, with breathtaking views, often featuring Michelin-star dining and personalized service. It has a tranquil, upscale retreat.

Family & Solo Travelers

  • Family-Friendly

    Apartment/Villa Rental (Minori/Maiori) has more space and self-catering facilities. Often located near flatter, more accessible beaches. Hotels with pools in Maiori are larger resorts with amenities designed for families.

  • Solo Traveler

    Hostel (Sorrento/Salerno) has a social atmosphere and opportunities to meet other travelers. Good as a base for day trips using public transport. Smaller B&B (Amalfi/Atrani) for central locations, easy transport access, and welcoming hosts.

Long-Stay & Cultural Stays

  • Long-Stay

    Apartment/Villa Rental (Praiano/Minori) includes kitchen facilities and more living space, with options for discounts on longer stays. Ideal for immersing yourself in local life. Also, TrustedHousesitters is an option for house/pet sitting exchanges.

  • Cultural/Historical

    Historic Hotel (Amalfi) means classic luxury properties with a rich history and iconic status, often featuring traditional architecture and sea views. Ravello Villas (many Ravello hotels are historic properties) create a deep connection to the region's artistic past.

Additional Considerations

Check Reviews

Always consult recent guest reviews on booking platforms before making a reservation to match your expectations.

  • Look for comments on cleanliness.
  • Note noise levels.
  • Check location specifics.
  • Verify amenities match descriptions.
Mobility & Access

Many towns involve stairs and steep paths. If mobility is a concern, consider flatter towns like Minori or Maiori, or hotels with elevators.

  • Inquire about accessibility features.
  • Check distances to transport hubs.
  • Confirm ease of access to beaches.
  • Prioritize comfort for your travel group.

Booking Summary

Plan Ahead

Early booking is highly advisable, especially for peak seasons and popular locations, to secure your preferred accommodation.

Read Policies

Familiarize yourself with deposit and cancellation terms to avoid unexpected charges.

Local vs. Platform

Compare direct booking prices with those on major platforms for the best deals.