Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast: Best Bases by Budget and Type

The Amalfi Coast has a wide range of accommodation — from cliff-hanging five-star hotels to guesthouses in the less-visited villages. Where you base yourself significantly affects cost and how you experience the coast.

Positano

The most iconic and most expensive base. Every property with a sea view charges for it. The village is steep — expect stairs to almost everything. Positano works best for travellers who want the full visual experience and can absorb the cost. Book well in advance for summer.

Le Sirenuse (Via Cristoforo Colombo 30) — Positano’s iconic five-star, family-owned since 1951, infinity pool with coast views, the benchmark Amalfi hotel. $700–2,000/night.

Hotel Marincanto (Via Cristoforo Colombo 50) — four-star with a pool and sea views, more accessible than Le Sirenuse. $350–700/night.

La Fenice (Via Marconi 4) — small guesthouse at the budget end for Positano, basic rooms, the cheapest decent option in the village. €120–200/night.

Ravello

The most refined option — up in the mountains with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds than the coastal villages. Several genuinely exceptional hotels occupy historic villas with garden terraces. A good choice for those prioritising peace and atmosphere over beach access.

Palazzo Avino (Via San Giovanni del Toro 28) — a 12th-century palazzo with rooftop pool, the most distinguished hotel in Ravello. $500–1,500/night.

Hotel Caruso (Piazza San Giovanni del Toro 2) — Belmond property in a medieval palace, dramatic pool and views. $600–1,800/night.

Villa Amore (Via dei Fusco 5) — small family-run guesthouse in Ravello, good value for the village. €100–180/night.

Amalfi Town

Centrally located with ferry and bus connections to both ends of the coast. The town itself is busy but manageable. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Better value than Positano for a comparable position.

Praiano

The best-value base on the coast with good ferry connections. Quieter than Positano or Amalfi, with direct sea access and a genuine village character. The Marina di Praia cove is walkable. Praiano is the best option for travellers who want the coast experience without paying Positano prices.

Hotel Margherita (Via Umberto I 70) — the best mid-range option in Praiano, sea-view terrace. €150–280/night.

La Tranquillità (Via Roma 7) — small guesthouse in Praiano, good value for the coast. €90–160/night.

Salerno

The most practical and best-value base for exploring the coast — a functioning city with good restaurants, reliable transport, and accommodation at a fraction of coastal prices. Ferries connect Salerno to Amalfi, Positano, and other villages in season (April to October). By train, Naples is 40 minutes. The downside: you’re not actually on the coast at night.

NH Collection Grand Hotel Salerno (Lungomare Trieste 1) — waterfront hotel, the best option in Salerno, €120–200/night.

Hotel Mediterranea (Lungomare Clemente Tafuri 1) — seafront, reliable mid-range, €90–150/night.

Sorrento

Technically on the Sorrentine Peninsula rather than the Amalfi Coast, but a popular base due to excellent transport: ferries to the coast, Circumvesuviana train to Naples. More hotels at mid-range prices than anywhere on the coast itself.

Practical Notes

• Most coastal accommodation requires carrying luggage up steps — check this before booking if it’s a concern
• Parking is scarce and expensive; if arriving by car, factor in parking costs or use the Salerno/Sorrento approach
• High season (July-August) sees prices approximately double compared to May or September
• Many properties close November to March