The Amalfi Coast is often seen solely as a summer destination, but did you know that people head there all year round? The scenery and the history don’t change, and that’s the prime reason that it’s fast becoming one of Europe’s go-to destinations in those chilly winter months. As it’s nestled on the Mediterranean there’s plenty of warm weather to be had even in the depths of winter — ideal for a welcome break from the cold and drizzle back home.
It is at heart a tourist hotspot however, and this means that you’ll need to plan ahead if you’re going to have a good time no matter when to travel to the Amalfi Coast. The place is far from deserted, but there are a few things that have restricted availability during winter. Let’s take a closer look so that you have everything you need to know to enjoy the welcome winter break you need at the end of the year.
Remember that the ferries don’t run in the winter
The ferries are a great way to get to and from the island of Capri, as well as to see another side of the Coast itself. Demand is much lower in the winter months as the majority of the tourists have already been and gone for the year. This means that to save money the operators keep their boats on the shore and don’t venture out onto the sea. You might be able to find the occasional small operator who’s willing to take you out, but don’t base your whole trip around it otherwise you may leave disappointed.
Lots of hotels will close, but you can still find a place to stay
Many of the large hotels close during the winter months because of lower demand. This tends to start in the first month of November, and they then open up again in early February. That said, there are plenty of smaller hotels that will happily give you a warm welcome as you sit back and relax by the fire. It’s also a great opportunity to grab a bed and breakfast or a private villa if you feel like going half board or self catering. These kinds of properties are open for business all year round, and will gladly accommodate you.
The buses run all year round, and Amalfi Town has the best connections
The buses are a godsend during the winter months as they offer a full schedule and there’s always plenty of spare seats. They’re how the locals get around when they leave the car at home for the day so you can rely on them to run right the way through the year.
If you don’t fancy doing too much driving, then leave the hire cars at the airport and base yourself in Amalfi Town. It has the best connections, and makes for a much easier holiday in the slower months of the year.
Read our updated guide on: How to Get to the Amalfi Coast
A day trip to Naples is a great way to get out and about
One of the main criticisms levelled at the Amalfi Coast in winter is that there’s not all that much to do when the sun isn’t shinning. If you feel that might be the case with you, then why not head on over to Naples for the day? You can get a bus to Sorrento and then a train into the city in a little over an hour, and the tickets are always reasonably priced.
Expect plenty of sunny winter days, and the occasional light shower
The weather is something that plenty of people will be Googling, but rest assured, you’re not going to be snowed in or anything like that. The majority of the days are little more than mild, and the sun still comes out in the afternoon so that you can enjoy plenty of blue sky. Unlike in the summer, there will be the occasional shower. Luckily these are light and only last half an hour or so, which provided you have a light raincoat you won’t even notice.
Best time to visit Amalfi Coast: Jan • Feb • Mar • Apr • May • Jun • Jul • Aug • Sep • Oct • Nov • Dec