Amalfi Coast on a budget: how to travel, stay & eat for less

Few places are as captivating as the Amalfi Coast on the southwest shores of Italy. With its dramatic cliffs, pastel-hued villages, and sparkling turquoise waters, it is no wonder that it regularly tops lists of best places to visit. Of course, all this praise and attention means that prices in this slice of heaven on earth have skyrocketed, but it is still very much possible to visit the Amalfi Coast on a budget. 

In fact, with just a bit of planning and flexibility, you will be enjoying the Dolce Vita in no time! This guide will show you how to soak in all the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, without the luxury price tag. Let’s dive in! 🚢✨

• Best time to visit the Amalfi Coast on a budget
• How to get to the Amalfi Coast cheaply
• Low-cost accommodation on the Amalfi Coast
• Budget-friendly Amalfi Coast day trips
• What (and how) to eat on a budget in Amalfi
• General budgeting tips for the Amalfi Coast

Best time to visit the Amalfi Coast on a budget

While summer is undoubtedly the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast, it is also one of the busiest and most expensive periods. The best time to visit Amalfi without breaking the bank is during the shoulder seasons, namely April-May and September-October, or during the quieter winter months when prices drop significantly.

Shoulder seasons (April-May & September-October)

By opting to visit the Amalfi Coast in late spring and early fall, you can avoid the high season prices, while still enjoying the pleasant weather and thinner crowds. Hotels and B&Bs generally have lower rates before and after the peak summer season.

By visiting during these periods, you will likely encounter mild temperatures, making it perfect for sightseeing and hiking, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by hordes of tourists. Keep in mind though that traffic can still get heavy during weekends and major public holidays, so it’s best to plan your excursions on weekdays.

Winter (November-March)

For even better deals though, consider booking a trip to the Amalfi Coast in the winter. While sunbathing and swimming may not be an option, winter is a great time for exploring the Amalfi Coast’s historic sites and hiking trails, without the tourist crowds.

During this period, accommodation in the coastal towns and surrounding areas is generally at its most affordable, so you can experience the region’s charm without the usual hustle and bustle. It is important to note though that many hotels, restaurants, and tourist services shut down for the season, especially in the smaller towns. Transportation is also affected, with ferry routes being less frequent and some lines shutting down entirely until spring. 

Hop on board, the Amalfi Coast awaits!

How to get to the Amalfi Coast cheaply

There are many ways to travel to the Amalfi Coast, but with a bit of flexibility and savviness, you plan your trip on a modest budget. Flying to Naples (Napoli Capodichino Airport - NAP) tends to be the cheapest option from most European cities. However, for the best prices, you should book well in advance and consider budget airlines running seasonal routes. 

From there, you can travel to the Amalfi Coast by car, public transportation, or ferry. Each option has its advantages and challenges, so finding the best price requires some careful planning:

Taxis and car rentals may offer flexibility, but they are also the most expensive option when you factor in the cost of rental, fuel, and parking. Additionally, you will have to contend with Amalfi’s famously narrow and winding roads, as well as heavy traffic during the summer and weekends. If you are set on renting a car, your best option is to park in Salerno or Sorrento and continue by ferry.

Public transportation is the more budget-friendly option, with the bus journey from Naples lasting roughly 2 hours and costing €7-€20, depending on the company and route. Likewise, the train from Naples to Salerno costs €6-€40, with the ride lasting 40 minutes to 1.5 hours. Buses and trains can be crowded, especially in peak season and weekends, so arriving early to secure a seat is essential.

The most convenient option though, balancing cost, travel time, and comfort, is to travel by ferry. The Naples-Amalfi route is served daily with multiple crossings, with ticket prices starting at around €28, and the journey lasting approximately 2 to 3 hours. If you are traveling from Salerno, ferries are even more budget-friendly, with the Salerno-Amalfi ferry trip lasting just over 30 minutes and costing about €11. Compare this to the SITA bus, which while cheaper at about €3 per ticket, takes at least 1 hour and 15 minutes and can be extremely crowded in the high season.

Once you have reached Amalfi, you can hop on the regular ferry routes to visit many standout towns along the coast without breaking the bank or getting tied up in traffic jams. The Amalfi-Minori ferry takes just 10 minutes and will set you back €5, while the Amalfi-Positano ride lasts 20 minutes and costs about €10.

Beyond saving you a lot of time (and potential frustration), traveling by ferry offers a more comfortable experience, with stunning coastal views that you won’t get from a car or bus. Booking your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the summer, can help you get the best prices and avoid last-minute price hikes.

Low-cost accommodation on the Amalfi Coast

When it comes to accommodation, there are many amazing villages on the Amalfi Coast and further inland, but not all of them are budget-friendly. Here are our picks for some of the best places that balance prices, scenic views, and amenities.

Minori: affordable lodging & a quiet vibe

If you are looking for a place to stay on the coast, the resort town of Minori is just 4 km northeast of Amalfi. The Città del gusto (“City of taste”), as it is known, has a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the more tourist-oriented neighboring villages and towns. 

While it has become popular thanks to its breathtaking seaside views, Minori remains one of the best places for budget-friendly hotels, family-run guesthouses, and cozy B&Bs, at a short distance from the beaches.

Minori is a short ride from the town of Amalfi

Ravello: scenic views & budget-friendly options

Ravello is easy to get to from Amalfi and one of the most affordable places to stay near the coast. Perched atop a hill above Amalfi, accommodation tends to be cheaper in Ravello compared to the more popular seaside resorts. The village is famous for its stunning villas, music festivals, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean. 

Although Ravello lacks direct beach access, it has a peaceful ambiance and affordable B&Bs that make it a fantastic option for travelers looking to escape the crowds. Regular buses and taxis make it easy to reach the coast, so staying here allows you to enjoy Amalfi without the premium price tag.

Are you prepared for the breathtaking views from Ravello?

Cetara: a hidden gem for budget-conscious travelers

Cetara is a charming fishing village that has managed to stay under the radar compared to its more famous neighbors. Known for its authentic, small-town atmosphere and its renowned anchovy-based cuisine, Cetara offers a glimpse into local life along the Amalfi Coast. 

Here, you’ll find affordable guesthouses and family-run accommodations, often at much lower prices than more popular places on the Amalfi Coast. Since Cetara is well connected by ferry and bus, you can easily travel to other nearby villages on the daily Cetara-Minori and Cetara-Maiori ferry routes, or head further out along the coast to Salerno, Amalfi town, and Positano. This seaside gem is a superb base for budget travelers who want to explore the coast without overspending on lodging. 

Cetara is about halfway between Maiori and Salerno

Salerno: best for cheap stays with ferry access

If you want the best combination of affordability and convenience, Salerno is a top choice. Located at the southeastern end of the Amalfi Coast, this lively city offers the cheapest accommodation options in the region, including budget hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs. Salerno is well-connected to Naples, Rome, and other Italian cities by train, making it an ideal entry point for the budget-conscious traveler. 

One of the biggest advantages of staying in Salerno is its excellent ferry connections to Amalfi, Positano, and Capri, which allow you to explore the coast with ease. Plus, the city itself has plenty to offer, including a charming old town, a beautiful seaside promenade, and some of the best-value restaurants in the region.

Salerno is a top choice for affordable lodging and convenient ferry connections

Budget-friendly Amalfi Coast day trips

They say that when in Rome, do like the Romans, but when on the Amalfi Coast, embrace the art of slow travel and let the sea be your guide!  One of the best ways to explore this stunning region without overspending is by going on a budget-friendly day trip by ferry.

Ferries connect some of the most enchanting destinations on the coast, making coast-hopping in Naples and Amalfi both easy and affordable. Whether you’re after charming seaside villages, hidden beaches, or stunning island escapes, there’s a perfect day trip for everyone.

Island-hopping on a budget

If you have had your taste of the Amalfi Coast and would like to venture further out into the Gulf fo Naples, you can always go island hopping. The great thing about heading to the islands is that the connections are regular and ticket prices usually start at just under €30.

• Amalfi to Capri: Experience the island’s legendary beauty without the luxury price tag. At just 1 hour away by ferry, you will be hiking to Villa Jovis, taking in the stunning views and people-watching at the cafés near the main square in no time!
• Amalfi to Ischia: Famous for its thermal spas and wonderful food, Ischia is a great option for relaxation. To keep costs low, head for the public beaches and inexpensive hot springs like Sorgeto.
• Amalfi to Procida: With its pastel-colored houses and authentic charm, Procida is a dream for budget travelers. Spend the day wandering its quiet streets and soaking up its laid-back atmosphere.

What (and how) to eat on a budget in Amalfi

Amalfi is more than just breathtaking cliff-side views and picturesque villages; it also has an amazing cuisine that blends well-known Mediterranean favorites with a rich local twist. The easiest (and tastiest) way of discovering Amalfi’s flavors is to simply follow your nose!

Diving into Amalfi’s cruise needn’t cost an arm and a leg:

• Visit bakeries for breakfast: one of the best ways to start your day is with fresh sfogliatella pastries, warm cornetto or a panino con mozzarella di bufala sandwich from a local bakery. Pair it with an espresso from a bar (standing up) or café for the cheapest and most authentic experience.
• Street food stalls are easy on the wallet: you will find everything from snacks like arancini (stuffed rice balls) or fried zucchini flowers, to cuoppo di mare (a paper cone filled with fried seafood) to keep you going.
• Avoid eating out for every meal: head out to the local markets to stock up on local cheese, bread and fruit for a mouthwatering picnic with a view.
• Find the right-priced pizza: no trip to Italy would be complete without pizza Napoletana! While pizzerias in Amalfi can be pricey, you’ll often find better deals in nearby Naples before heading to the coast.
• Take advantage of aperitivo deals: these typically include a drink and a variety of appetizers. These are a great way of soaking in the local vibe without committing to an expensive meal.

Cuoppo di mare is the ultimate snack on the go

General budgeting tips for the Amalfi Coast

Our guide on how to avoid tourist traps in Italy has many general tips to keep in mind, but here are some more specific ways to help you stay on budget in Amalfi:

• Use ferries instead of taxis and buses: Getting around Amalfi by ferry means you will avoid the traffic jams on the busy roads and be treated to amazing views along the way.
• Visit free attractions: there is no admission fee to enjoy the beaches and hiking trails. You can also visit churches for free, just remember that your clothing must be modest.
• Avoid hotels: while hotels may offer a more comprehensive experience, B&Bs, guesthouses, or hostels are generally more budget-friendly and flexible.
• Go for accommodation with a kitchen: this will allow you to save on meals
• Stay slightly inland: as magical as the villages are along the coast, accommodation prices further inland are typically lower.
• Book early and visit off-season: booking early means gives you more options and flexibility while visiting outside of the summer often means better prices.