6 ways to see the Amalfi Coast on a budget

19.03.2024 - 06:21 / lonelyplanet.com

The Amalfi Coast – where glamorous yachts crowd coastal inlets and nights at its bloom-draped hotels can start at €350 – is Italy at its most luxe.

It’s hard to believe that before the 20th century, this 50km (31-mile) stretch of dramatic cliffs and lemon groves was just a string of poor fishing villages. Thanks to the writers and filmmakers who immortalized its beauty, palatial seaside hotels cropped up seemingly overnight, celebrities flocked to its shores and the Amalfi Coast-as-influencer was born.

In addition to super expensive accommodations, expect bloated tourist prices at restaurants and cafes, where meals will run you €50 on average and an espresso can cost upwards of €5 (compared to €1 in most of Italy). And yet, the Amalfi Coast is irresistible. Here are our tips on stretching your humble euro so you can enjoy this stunning when you're not part of the glitterati.

Average daily cost: €300

...if you’re already in Italy, that is. Take a high speed Frecciarossa train to Naples, then a ferry (€30 and up) or bus (from €1.30) to your chosen Amalfi Coast town. It’ll take about twice as long as a taxi, but sure beats paying upwards of €100. 

Summer is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit – and the most expensive. Worse, every square meter crawls with tourists and the heat soars upwards of 32°C (90°F), turning the region into a sweaty hellscape. August is the absolute worst moment, when vacationing Italians join the fray and many businesses and tourist sites will be closed. The madness reaches its miserable peak at Ferragosto – the Italian summer solstice festival, celebrated on August 15. Instead, plan your trip for the shoulder season (September and October, March to early June), when most tourists are gone and the weather is glorious. Prices start coming down after August 15, and you'll be rubbing shoulders mostly with locals.

You can also find good deals during the off-season (November to March). It'll be too cold for sundresses, but the Amalfi Coast's villages and hikes are still exceptionally beautiful during this time. Keep in mind, however, that the region goes into hibernation in colder months, with public transit and restaurant service greatly reduced. Many hotels shut down until Easter, so while you'll find cheaper stays (with prices around 30% less than peak season), your options will be limited.

Yes, it’s maddeningly spotty and in peak season, you’ll be (literally) fighting for space on board. But at €1.30 for a single-ride ticket (compared to €30 a day for a car rental plus €1.80/L for petrol), if you’re on a budget, taking public transport on the Amalfi Coast is a no-brainer. With careful planning, the region’s extensive bus and ferry network can get you wherever you need to go, from