Amalfi Coast Road Trip: From Salerno to Positano
Salerno: The Perfect Starting Point
After our trip to Ischia, we made our way to Salerno. However, since there isn’t a direct ferry to Salerno, we first returned to Naples. From there, it was just a short 10-minute walk from the port to catch a direct bus to Salerno, allowing us to skip a trip to the main bus station.
We stayed for two nights in Salerno, choosing accommodations in the old city center (check out my recommendations for places to stay).
Arriving in the afternoon, we were eager to eat after our journey from Ischia, so we headed to Lo Spaghetto.
Later that evening, we wandered through the old city center and visited Salerno’s Duomo,
Having only indulged in gelato once during my three trips to Italy this summer, I was determined to rectify that. The internet was buzzing about a place called Giallo Limone, and for good reason!
The next morning, we planned a day trip to the Amalfi Coast. We rented a scooter in Salerno from Turi Rent for €50 per day, which included full insurance coverage and helmets. The staff was friendly, and since they handle many rentals, I recommend making a reservation in advance—there’s no deposit required. If you decide to rent a scooter, be sure that the driver is experienced, as the roads can be quite challenging.
Alternatively, taking the local Sita buses or a ferry from Salerno is a more straightforward option, as they serve as regular transportation rather than guided tours. Though we considered renting a car, it’s not the best option for the Amalfi Coast due to heavy traffic, limited parking, and regulations that restrict driving based on license plate numbers. So, we opted for the scooter instead.
Our goal was to reach Positano, located 42 km from Salerno, making stops along the way whenever we spotted something interesting.
Maiori: Coastal Beauty
Our first stop was Maiori which is 20 km from Salerno, so we were halfway to Positano.
After parking your car (or scooter!), take a stroll along the town’s main promenade or go for a swim. For a bit of adventure, don’t miss the chance to hike the scenic Sentiero dei Limoni (Lemon Path), where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the coast as you pass through fragrant lemon groves.
Once refreshed, we continued on to Amalfi, ready to explore the next gem of the coast.
Amalfi: The Heart of the Coast
Many people mistakenly think that Amalfi is the same as the Amalfi Coast, but in reality, the Amalfi Coast refers to the entire stretch of breathtaking coastline, which includes several towns and villages, with Amalfi being just one of them.
In Amalfi itself, finding parking can be a bit tricky, especially for a scooter. Paid parking is available but limited, and free spots are almost impossible to find. I used the EasyPark app, which was a lifesaver—it allowed me to pay for parking easily and even adjust the time if I needed to leave earlier or stay longer. Parking in Amalfi costs around €4 per hour, so plan accordingly. Start by visiting the iconic Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi), a striking masterpiece that will leave you speechless.
And our last stop was Positano, arguably the most famous (and most photographed) town along the Amalfi Coast.
Positano: The Iconic Town
It’s a town that seems almost too perfect to be real, with its pastel-colored houses, narrow streets filled with boutiques, and jaw-dropping sea views at every turn.
After parking at the top of town (note that parking is limited, so be prepared for a bit of a walk), we made our way down the winding streets toward Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach. The walk itself is an experience—along the way, you’ll pass charming shops selling handmade leather sandals, colorful clothes, and local artwork. But keep in mind, the uphill trek on the way back can be tough, especially in 30-degree heat.
If you’re not in the mood to go down to the beach, you can always enjoy a drink or lunch at one of the cafés at the top of town.
Wrapping Up: Ride back to Salerno
I really wanted to stay in Positano and catch the sunset, but with a 1.5-hour drive back to Salerno ahead of us, we made the sensible choice to leave early to avoid driving after dark.
On the way back, we made a quick stop between Positano and Amalfi at the famous roadside fruit stand. We sipped on freshly squeezed orange juice while soaking in the stunning coastal views—one last moment of relaxation before heading back.
Once in Salerno, we finished the day with dinner at a cozy, homey restaurant.
These towns have become incredibly popular on social media, drawing large crowds and pushing up prices. Add in the extreme summer heat, and the experience can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’d recommend visiting in autumn or spring, when the crowds thin out, and the weather is more comfortable. I’m not saying you shouldn’t go—it’s definitely a place worth visiting at least once in your life.
Each town—Salerno, Maiori, Amalfi, and Positano—has its own unique charm, whether it’s history, relaxation, adventure, or breathtaking views. The Amalfi Coast is more than just a place; it’s an experience.
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