A month-by-month breakdown of when to visit one of Italy’s most popular destinations.
The Amalfi Coast is synonymous with summer vacations–boat trips, beach bars, and endless Aperol spritz. So, in July and August, the coastline is a crush of visitors. If you don’t like crowds, consider shoulder seasons, which can sometimes be even more pleasant than peak periods. Even visiting in winter has its attractions. Here’s what to expect on the Amalfi Coast at different times of year.
July and August Mean Guaranteed Sunshine and Crowds
If you want the quintessential Amalfi Coast experience of dinners al fresco, endless sunshine, and a party atmosphere, the summer months are your best bet. Temperatures are high, often over 30°C (86°F), and evenings are balmy. Several events take place in summer, including lemon festivals in Massa Lubrense and Dragonea in July and Italy’s biggest national summer holiday, Ferragosto, on 15 August.
The unavoidable downside to this is the influx of visitors. July and August are the busiest months on the Amalfi Coast, so prepare for crowds in all the hotspots like Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello. Public transport is easily overwhelmed, so expect long queues for the packed buses that wind up and down the coastal road. Because of the notorious traffic congestion along this narrow highway, there are now travel restrictions in summer between Vietri sul Mare and Positano for non-resident cars. If you plan on driving, check with your travel provider or accommodation first about days you may not be allowed to use that stretch of the coast road.
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June and September Have Good Weather and Fewer Crowds
Arguably the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is just before and just after the peak summer season in June and September. You can still expect warm and sunny weather – you might just need a light jacket if you eat outside in the evenings. If you hate cold water, aim for September when the sea is at its warmest after a summer of sunshine.
There are fewer crowds during these months, particularly in early June before the Italian schools break up. However, it’s certainly not off-season, and there will still be plenty of visitors, and accommodation will get snapped up quickly. The towns certainly aren’t dormant, either. There are several Saint’s Day festivals along the coast in June, which include processions, light displays, and big feasts.
April, May, and October Are Ideal for Hiking
The Amalfi Coast is not just a fly-and-flop destination. With nature-rich cliffs and mountains all along the coastline, it is a hotspot for hiking. Although the thick woods and altitude keep some parts of the trails cool even in summer, any exposed areas are tough going under the scorching sun. Weather is a little erratic in April, May, and October, but you can still expect a lot of ideal hiking conditions with temperatures up to 20°C (68°F) during the day.
The landscape is also at its best during these months. In April and May, the mountains are lush and bright green, while valleys are studded with wildflowers. In fall, the woods turn a palette of warm russet and orange. Some of the most popular trails along the Amalfi Coast, like the Sentiero degli Dei, can get crowded in summer, but in April, May, and October, you might even find yourself walking alone.
Off-Season Reveals the Coast’s Hidden Beauty
By November, beach clubs and many hotels will be closed down for the winter period. Until March, the Amalfi Coast is off-season. The downsides of these months are fewer attractions and unpredictable weather. You might get some spectacular sunny days, but you can also expect plenty of downpours, as this is when the coastline gets most of its rainfall.
The upside is low prices and plenty of availability. Travelers also see a different side to the coastline when it is peaceful and crowd-free. Nature is allowed to shine as beaches are cleared of deck chairs and the sea of tourist boats. Alongside Christmas and New Year, there are plenty of riotous local festivals in winter, including the Sagra della Zeppola, when Positano’s residents prepare fried donuts called frittelle on the beach.
We went to Amalfi coast in early June. It was packed with tourists, except Herculaneum. We stayed in Sorrento.
traffic was terrible.
We loved it there, but I wouldn't go in June again. Honestly, I can't imagine how bad July and August must be.