When is the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast?

29.02.2024 - 14:55 / lonelyplanet.com / Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, with its chalk-colored towns clinging to the wooded coast, glorious food, fragrant citrus groves and glamorous beaches backed by Italy’s most stunning seacliffs, is one of Italy’s highlights.

However, the downside to these incredible attractions is that everyone is now in on the secret and the local population swells to bursting point at peak times. But each of its seasons has its particular charms, and there are pros and cons to traveling to the Amalfi Coast at different times of the year.

During peak times – including summer and Easter – prices are high and it’s crowded, but there’s a festive atmosphere and tranquility can be found away from the tourist hotspots. If you travel in the low season, the weather can be unpredictable, but prices are lower and the coast feels as if it’s been returned to the locals. With a bit of planning, you can navigate high- or low-season challenges more easily than the bends of its famous coastal road.

These are the months to aim for if you want guaranteed high temperatures, sunshine and plenty of beach action. The warmest month is August, with temperatures over 30°C (86°F), but July is not far behind. Expect crowds, heat and traffic: this is when Italy takes its annual summer holiday, international tourist numbers are high, and it will be a struggle to find a space on the small, pebbly beaches to lay down your towel.

The upside is the festive, party atmosphere, streets that are alive and vibrant, and lots of festivals along the coast, including the festival of lemons on the third weekend in July. On the Night of St Lorenzo on the 10th of August, people camp out on the beach to see shooting stars (the Dawn Concert takes place at the Ravello Festival), and on the big Italian summer holiday of Ferragosto (the Assumption of Mary) on the 15th of August, processions are held in various towns, including Positano.

During peak times there are travel restrictions on the famous 23-mile SS163 coastal stretch between Vietri sul Mare and Positano. On weekends from June 15th to September 30th, and for the entirety of Easter week and August, non-resident cars with a license plate ending in an even number cannot drive along the coast on even-numbered days between 10am and 6pm. The same restrictions apply to cars with a license plate ending in an odd number – they cannot travel on odd-numbered days. If you’re planning to drive and aiming for a particular hotel, contact your accommodation to find out their arrangement.

In May temperatures hover around 20°C (68°F), wildflowers are blooming and the landscape is at its greenest. It’s usually warm enough to wear a t-shirt by day but evenings are much cooler. Mid-May is a great time to visit for some sunshine without the usual