Choosing the right town on the Amalfi Coast is the single most important decision you’ll make for your trip. Each place has its own personality — some glamorous, some quiet, some practical — and where you sleep shapes the entire rhythm of your days.
This guide is designed to help you match your travel style to the perfect base: do you want to wake up to Positano’s cliffside glamour, or sip your evening wine in Ravello’s tranquil gardens? Do you prefer the central convenience of Amalfi, or the authenticity of a fishing village like Praiano?
Whether you’re traveling for romance, family time, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, this article will walk you through the options with clarity and honesty. By the end, you’ll know exactly where on the coast feels like “yours.”
The Best Towns to stay on the Amalfi Coast at a Glance
| Town | The Vibe | Best For | Price Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Positano | Glamorous, energetic, postcard-perfect | Romance, honeymooners, luxury seekers | 💎 High |
| Amalfi | Historic, lively, central hub | First-time visitors, convenience, families | 💰 Mid–High |
| Ravello | Quiet, elegant, breathtaking views | Dreamers, culture lovers, peaceful retreats | 💎 High |
| Sorrento | Practical, accessible, bustling base | Budget travelers, those without a car, explorers combining Amalfi & beyond | 💰 Mid |
| Capri | Stylish, glamorous island escape | Couples, photographers, luxury & fashion fans | 💎💎 Very High |
| Praiano | Authentic, relaxed, local feel | Families, repeat visitors, slower pace | 💰 Mid |
Positano: For Iconic Luxury and Romance
Positano is the Amalfi Coast’s showstopper — a cascade of pastel houses spilling down to the sea. Staying here means waking up to views that look like a painting, dining on terraces lit by lanterns, and browsing chic boutiques between stairways that twist through the village. By day it buzzes with visitors, but at night, when the ferries leave, Positano glitters with a softer, more intimate energy.
The Vibe
Stylish, romantic, and lively — the classic Amalfi postcard brought to life.
Accommodation Style
- 💎 Luxury cliffside hotels with infinity pools and cinematic views.
- 🏨 Mid-range boutique stays with charm and balconies.
- 💰 A handful of guesthouses further uphill, best for budget-conscious travelers.
Pros as a Base
- Unbeatable views and iconic atmosphere.
- Excellent dining and nightlife, ideal for couples.
- Ferry hub with direct boats to Amalfi, Capri, and Sorrento.
Cons as a Base
- The most expensive destination on the coast.
- Lots of stairs and steep climbs — tricky with luggage or limited mobility.
- Very crowded in summer.
Best For
Honeymooners, couples, and travelers seeking a glamorous, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Recommended Hotels
- Le Sirenuse (Luxury) – Legendary 5-star with romantic terraces, Michelin-starred dining, and infinity views.
- Hotel Poseidon (Mid-Range) – Family-run boutique hotel with a pool, classic Mediterranean design, and excellent service.
- Casa Teresa (Best Value) – A charming guesthouse tucked into the hillside, with warm hospitality and private balconies.
Amalfi: For History and Central Convenience
Staying in Amalfi puts you right at the historic heart of the coast. Once a proud maritime republic, today it’s a lively hub where a grand cathedral dominates the piazza, ferries and buses connect the whole region, and cafés spill into the streets. By night, when the day-trippers are gone, the town slows to a warm, local rhythm — the perfect moment to enjoy a gelato on the steps of the Duomo.
The Vibe
Busy and energetic by day, atmospheric and welcoming by night. Central, walkable, and full of character.
Accommodation Style
- 🏨 Mid-range hotels and guesthouses clustered around the seafront and piazza.
- 💎 Elegant boutique stays in historic buildings.
- 💰 Smaller B&Bs and budget-friendly rooms tucked into the side streets.
Pros as a Base
- The best transport hub — ferries and buses radiate from here.
- Flat layout (by Amalfi Coast standards) — easier than Positano’s stairways.
- Central location makes day trips simple.
Cons as a Base
- Still busy with day-trippers in peak season.
- Smaller beach compared to Maiori or Positano.
- Accommodation fills quickly — early booking is essential.
Best For
First-time visitors, families, and travelers who value convenience and connectivity.
Recommended Hotels
- Hotel Santa Caterina (Luxury) – A historic 5-star carved into the cliffs, with sea terraces and a private beach club.
- Hotel Marina Riviera (Mid-Range) – Elegant rooms overlooking the sea and piazza, with a rooftop terrace.
- Hotel Amalfi (Best Value) – Central, family-run hotel just steps from the Duomo, offering simple comfort and friendly service.
Ravello: For Tranquil Elegance and Epic Views
Perched high above the coast, Ravello feels like a retreat from the world. Known for its gardens, villas, and summer music festivals, it’s a place of quiet beauty and refined charm. Evenings here are hushed, with golden light fading across the sea and the faint notes of a concert drifting from a terrace. Staying in Ravello means trading bustle for serenity, with views that linger in memory long after you’ve left.
The Vibe
Serene, elegant, and contemplative — a hilltop haven for dreamers and culture lovers.
Accommodation Style
- 💎 Luxury villas and historic hotels with panoramic terraces.
- 🏨 Boutique B&Bs tucked along quiet cobbled streets.
- 💰 Limited budget options, mostly small guesthouses.
Pros as a Base
- Sweeping views unmatched anywhere on the coast.
- Peaceful, crowd-free atmosphere.
- Cooler evenings in summer — refreshing after a hot day by the sea.
Cons as a Base
- No direct beach access — transport needed for the shore.
- Less convenient for hopping between coastal towns.
- Fewer restaurants and shops than Amalfi or Positano.
Best For
Couples, honeymooners, and travelers seeking peace, romance, and timeless views.
Recommended Hotels
- Belmond Hotel Caruso (Luxury) – A restored 11th-century palace with one of Italy’s most famous infinity pools.
- Villa Maria (Mid-Range) – Family-run charm with sweeping terrace views and a cozy restaurant.
- B&B Palazzo della Marra (Best Value) – A friendly guesthouse in a historic building, ideal for a quiet stay.
Sorrento: The Strategic & Convenient Gateway
Though not technically on the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is often chosen as a base for its unmatched convenience. With trains to Naples and Pompeii, ferries across the Bay, and more hotels than any other town in the region, it offers variety and practicality. Evenings here are lively but not overwhelming — piazzas fill with music, locals take their evening passeggiata, and sunsets light up the Bay of Naples.
The Vibe
Bustling, accessible, and cosmopolitan — a blend of local life and tourist comforts, more small city than seaside village.
Accommodation Style
- 💎 Full-service hotels and resorts with pools and sea views.
- 🏨 A wide range of mid-range boutique and business-style hotels.
- 💰 Ample budget choices compared to Amalfi Coast towns.
Pros as a Base
- Excellent transport hub: trains to Naples & Pompeii, ferries to Capri & Amalfi.
- Wide range of accommodation for every budget.
- Easier for drivers — more parking and larger roads.
Cons as a Base
- Not directly on the Amalfi Coast (30–60 minutes to Positano/Amalfi).
- Larger, less romantic than cliffside villages.
- Can feel busy in peak season with package tourists.
Best For
Budget travelers, families with strollers, and those exploring beyond Amalfi without a car.
Recommended Hotels
- Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria (Luxury) – Iconic 5-star with elegant gardens, bay views, and impeccable service.
- Hotel Antiche Mura (Mid-Range) – Central boutique hotel with a pool, friendly staff, and great value.
- Ulisse Deluxe Hostel (Best Value) – Clean, affordable, and surprisingly stylish — a top budget option near the center.
Capri: For a Glamorous Island Escape
An island of cliffs, grottos, and undeniable allure, Capri has been a playground for the rich and famous for centuries. Staying here means mornings spent exploring gardens and sea caves, afternoons shopping or strolling the Piazzetta, and evenings on terraces overlooking the bay once the day-trippers depart. It’s glamorous, indulgent, and unforgettable.
The Vibe
Chic, stylish, and exclusive — busy during the day, but serene and refined at night.
Accommodation Style
- 💎💎 Ultra-luxury hotels and villas with sweeping terraces.
- 🏨 Boutique mid-range hotels, mostly in Capri Town and Anacapri.
- 💰 Very limited budget stays — not ideal for cost-conscious travelers.
Pros as a Base
- Iconic island charm and dramatic scenery.
- Quiet, romantic evenings after the last ferries leave.
- Excellent food, shopping, and cliffside walks.
Cons as a Base
- One of the most expensive places to stay in Italy.
- Requires ferry connections to reach the mainland.
- Popular sights (like the Blue Grotto) are crowded in the day.
Best For
Couples, honeymooners, and travelers seeking a glamorous, exclusive escape.
Recommended Hotels
- JK Place Capri (Luxury) – Sophisticated design, sea views, and impeccable service — one of Italy’s finest hotels.
- Hotel Luna (Mid-Range) – Elegant cliffside property with stunning views of the Faraglioni rocks.
- Hotel La Tosca (Best Value) – A welcoming, family-run guesthouse in Capri Town with charm and great prices.
Praiano, Maiori & Minori: For an Authentic & Relaxed Stay
For travelers who prefer a slower pace and more space, towns like Praiano, Maiori, and Minori offer an appealing alternative to the big names. These villages trade glamour for authenticity: evenings are quieter, beaches less crowded, and life flows closer to local rhythms. Staying here means long seaside walks, family-run trattorias, and a chance to experience the Amalfi Coast without the frenzy.
The Vibe
Relaxed, authentic, and unpretentious — more local life than luxury.
Accommodation Style
- 🏨 Family-run hotels and cozy B&Bs.
- 💰 More budget-friendly options than Positano or Capri.
- 🏖️ Larger seaside hotels in Maiori, popular with families.
Pros as a Base
- More affordable accommodation.
- Less crowded, especially in the evenings.
- Sandy beaches in Maiori and Minori — rare on the Amalfi Coast.
Cons as a Base
- Fewer high-end luxury options.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment.
- Public transport less frequent than Amalfi or Positano.
Best For
Families, repeat visitors, and travelers seeking affordability and a slower coastal rhythm.
Recommended Hotels
- Casa Angelina (Praiano, Luxury) – Sleek, contemporary design with panoramic views and exceptional service.
- Hotel Panorama (Maiori, Mid-Range) – Comfortable seaside hotel with a rooftop pool and direct beach access.
- Hotel Santa Lucia (Minori, Best Value) – Family-run gem with warm hospitality, close to Minori’s sandy beach.
The Amalfi Coast Cheat Sheet: Best Towns by Travel Style
Choosing where to stay often comes down to your travel style. Here’s a quick guide to the best matches — use it as your shortcut to the right base.
🥂 For Honeymooners & Couples: For romance and sweeping views, choose Positano, Ravello, or Capri.
💰 On a Budget: For affordable accommodation and easy access, Sorrento, Maiori, and Minori are your best choices.
🗺️ For First-Time Visitors: If it’s your first trip, Amalfi is ideal thanks to its central location and transport links.
👨👩👧 With Family: Families will feel most comfortable in Maiori, Minori, and Amalfi for their flatter streets and sandier beaches.
🚍 Without a Car: For car-free travel, Amalfi is unbeatable. Sorrento is another excellent base with direct train access.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Amalfi Coast Base
Where you stay on the Amalfi Coast shapes everything about your trip — the pace of your days, the views from your window, and the memories you’ll carry home.
- For romance and glamour, Positano, Ravello, and Capri never disappoint.
- For convenience and central access, Amalfi is the classic choice.
- For affordability and ease, Sorrento, Maiori, and Minori make excellent bases.
There’s no single “best” place — only the one that feels right for you. By now, you know whether your heart leans toward glittering cliffside luxury, a peaceful hilltop retreat, or a relaxed seaside town with sandy beaches.
Whichever you choose, the Amalfi Coast will reward you with beauty, culture, and a rhythm of life that lingers long after your journey ends. Once you’ve chosen your base, our Ultimate Guide to the Amalfi Coast will help you plan your days — from boat trips and hikes to the region’s unforgettable food.
Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast
Here are quick answers to the most common questions travelers ask when choosing their base on the coast.
Should I stay in Sorrento or on the Amalfi Coast?
This is a classic dilemma. Stay in Sorrento if your priority is budget and convenience, especially if you plan to visit Pompeii and Naples, as it has direct train links. Stay on the Amalfi Coast proper (e.g., in Amalfi or Positano) if you want the most immersive, iconic, and romantic experience, and don’t mind paying a premium for it.
What is the best town to use as a base for exploring?
For first-time visitors who want to explore the entire coastline, Amalfi is arguably the best base. It is the central transportation hub for both ferries and buses, making it the easiest and most efficient starting point for day trips to other towns like Positano and Ravello.
Which town is best if I don’t have a car?
Amalfi and Sorrento are the two best choices for a car-free trip. Amalfi is the main ferry and bus hub on the coast itself, while Sorrento offers excellent train connections to Naples and Pompeii, in addition to its own robust ferry and bus services.
Is it possible to stay on the Amalfi Coast on a budget?
Yes, but it requires smart planning. For the most budget-friendly options, look at towns like Maiori, Minori, or consider staying in the larger, less-touristy gateway city of Salerno. These locations offer more affordable hotels and restaurants while still providing good ferry access to the main sights.
Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast on a budget?
For budget-friendly stays, look at Sorrento, Maiori, and Minori. These towns have a wider range of affordable hotels and B&Bs compared to Positano or Capri. You’ll still enjoy beautiful coastal scenery, but with more mid-range and value options.
Is the Amalfi Coast expensive?
Yes, the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s more premium destinations. Luxury hotels in Positano, Ravello, and Capri often come with high price tags, especially in summer. But it doesn’t have to break the bank — towns like Amalfi, Maiori, and Minori offer more accessible stays, especially if you book early or travel in spring or fall.
What are the best luxury hotels on the Amalfi Coast?
Some of the most celebrated properties include Le Sirenuse (Positano), Belmond Hotel Caruso (Ravello), and JK Place (Capri). These 5-star hotels are world-renowned for their dramatic views, exceptional service, and unforgettable settings. For a more boutique feel, look into Casa Angelina (Praiano) or Hotel Santa Caterina (Amalfi).
What hotels on the Amalfi Coast allow pets?
Several hotels welcome pets, especially smaller dogs. Options include Hotel Santa Caterina in Amalfi and Hotel La Tosca in Capri, both known for being pet-friendly. Always check the hotel’s individual policy before booking, as some may have restrictions on size, breed, or extra fees.