Amalfi Coast Driving Guide: Best Route, Tips and Car Rental Advice

Discover one of Italy's most breathtaking road trips with our complete Amalfi Coast driving guide.

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Driving the Amalfi Coast: Is it worth it?

The Amalfi Coast is one of the world's most famous coastal drives, stretching along dramatic cliffs, colourful villages, and sparkling Mediterranean waters. From Positano to Ravello, every bend in the road reveals another postcard-worthy view.

While driving here can be challenging, it offers a level of freedom that buses and organised tours simply cannot match. With a rental car, you can explore hidden beaches, stop at scenic viewpoints, and travel at your own pace.

Quick facts

- Location: Southern Italy, Campania Region

- Best Starting Point: Sorrento

- Distance: Approximately 50 km (31 miles)

- Driving Time: Around 2-3 hours without stops

- Recommended Trip Length: 2-4 days

- Best Time to Visit: April-June and September-October

Should You Rent a Car?

A rental car is ideal if you want flexibility and plan to visit multiple towns. However, roads are narrow, winding, and often bust during summer.

Benefits of Driving:

- Stop wherever you want

- Explore lesser-known villages

- Visit beaches not accessible by public transport

- Travel on your own schedule

If you're nervous about driving, consider visiting during summer or autumn when roads are quieter.

The Ultimate Amalfi Coast Driving Route

- Day 1: Sorrento - Positano

Begin your journey in Sorrento, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast.

Highlights:

- Historic old town

- Marina Grande

- Lemon groves

- Coastal viewpoints

Continue along the SS163 coastal road towards Positano.

Don't miss:

- Scenic pullovers along the coastline

- Sunset views over the Mediterranean

- Positano's colourful hillside houses

- Spend the night in Postiano

- Day 2: Positano - Praiano - Amalfi

Leave Positano and continue east.

Stop in Praiano

A quieter alternative to Positano with:

- Beautiful beaches

- Fewer crowds

- Incredible sea views

- Continue to Amalfi

Things to do in Amalfi

- Visit Amalfi Cathedral

- Explore the historic centre

- Enjoy authentic Italian gelato

- Walk along the harbour

- Stay overnight in Amalfi

- Day 3: Amalfi - Ravello

Take the short but scenic drive uphill to Ravello

Top attractions

- Villa Rufolo

- Villa Cimbrone

- Terrace of Infinity

- Panoramic coastal views

Ravello offers some of the best photography stops on the entire coast.

- Day 4: Amalfi - Salerno

For travellers with extra time, continue to Salerno.

Highlights:

- Historic old town

- Seafront promenade

- Excellent restaurants

- Ferry connections to Capri and other destinations

Best Viewpoints Along the Route

Make sure to stop safely at designated viewing areas.

Some of the most spectacular views can be found between:

Sorrento and Positano

Positano and Praiano

Amalfi and Ravello

Parking tips

Parking is one of the biggest challenges on the Amalfi Coast.

Helpful advice:

- Arrive early in popular towns

- Expect paid parking almost everywhere

- Hotels with parking are worth the extra cost

- Avoid driving into town centres during peak hours

Best Time to Drive the Amalfi Coast

Spring (April - June)

- Best overall choice

- Pleasant temperatures

- Flowers in bloom

- Fewer crowds

Summer (July - August)

- Very busy roads

- Higher prices

- Difficult parking

Autumn (September - October)

- Excellent balance

- Warm weather

- Fewer tourists

- Easier driving conditions

Winter (November - March)

- Quieter roads

- Some attractions may close

- Cooler temperatures

What Type of Rental Car Is Best?

For Amalfi Coast driving, smaller is better

Choose:

- Compact hatchbacks

- Small SUV's

- Economy cars

Avoid:

- Large SUV's

- Vans

- Oversized luxury vehicles

The narrower the vehicle, the easier you'll find parking and tight roads.

Frequently asked questions

Is driving the Amalfi Coast difficult?

It can be challenging due to narrow roads, tight bends, and heavy traffic, but most confident drivers manage it without issues.

How many days do I need?

We recommend at least 4 days to fully enjoy the route.

Can I drive the Amalfi Coast in one day?

Yes, but you'll miss many of the best attractions and viewpoints.

Is parking expensive?

Parking can be costly in popular towns, especially during summer.

Final thoughts

Driving the Amalfi Coast is one of Europe's most unforgettable road trips. With dramatic cliff side roads, charming villages, incredible food, and spectacular sea views, it's a journey every travel lover should experience at least once.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer Italian adventure, renting a car gives you the freedom to discover the Amalfi Coast beyond the typical tourist route.

Ready to start your journey? Compare rental car prices and find the perfect vehicle for your Amalfi Coast adventure today.

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