Driving the Amalfi Coast: Tips for Parking, Traffic, and Safety

The Amalfi Coast in southern Italy is one of the most breathtaking drives in the world. Stretching about 50 kilometers between Sorrento and Salerno, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and colorful villages clinging to the mountainside. For many travelers, renting a car and driving the Amalfi Coast is the ultimate Italian road trip.

But before you take the wheel, it’s important to understand the unique challenges of this famous coastal route. Parking is limited, traffic can be intense, and the winding roads demand extra caution. In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about driving the Amalfi Coast safely and stress-free, including practical tips on parking, traffic rules, and how to make the most of your journey.

Why Drive the Amalfi Coast?

Public transportation—such as buses and ferries—offers alternatives, but many travelers still choose to drive. The main reasons include:

• Freedom and flexibility: With your own car, you can stop whenever you want, whether it’s for a quick photo or a leisurely lunch.

• Exploring hidden gems: Small villages like Praiano, Furore, or Atrani are easier to reach by car.

• Day trips: Driving makes it easier to combine the Amalfi Coast with nearby destinations like Pompeii, Naples, or Paestum.

However, this freedom comes with responsibilities. The Amalfi Coast road (the SS163) is narrow, winding, and often crowded. Knowing what to expect will help you enjoy the experience instead of feeling overwhelmed.

Understanding the Amalfi Coast Road

The Strada Statale 163 Amalfitana, often called “the road of 1,000 bends,” hugs the cliffs with sharp turns and steep drops. Here’s what you should know:

• Narrow lanes: Often just wide enough for two vehicles, which can be intimidating when meeting buses or trucks.

• Tunnels and blind curves: Expect frequent curves where visibility is limited. Honking before blind turns is common practice.

• Sheer drops: Guardrails protect most sections, but the dramatic cliffs can make nervous drivers uneasy.

• Speed limits: Typically between 30–50 km/h (18–30 mph), though in reality traffic often moves even slower.

This road requires patience, concentration, and defensive driving skills. It’s not about speed—it’s about savoring the journey.

Parking on the Amalfi Coast

Parking is perhaps the biggest challenge when driving the Amalfi Coast. The villages were built centuries before cars existed, so space is extremely limited.

General Parking Rules

• Blue lines: Paid parking zones. Look for nearby meters where you can pay by coin, card, or mobile app.

• White lines: Free parking, but rare in popular towns.

• Yellow lines: Reserved for residents, deliveries, or disabled drivers. Do not park here.

• No lines: Unless clearly marked, assume it’s not allowed.

Parking Costs

Expect to pay between €2–5 per hour in towns like Positano and Amalfi. Daily rates at garages may reach €25–40.

Parking Tips by Town

• Positano: Street parking is nearly impossible. Use private garages like Garage Mandara or Parking Anna. Reserve in advance during high season.

• Amalfi: The Luna Rossa parking lot is carved into a cliffside cave just before town. It’s expensive but convenient.

• Ravello: Slightly easier, with parking lots near the town center. Still, arrive early.

• Praiano, Minori, Maiori: Parking is a bit less chaotic, but spaces still fill quickly.

Smart Strategies

• Arrive early: Morning hours offer the best chance to find a spot.

• Consider a scooter: Parking a scooter is much easier than a car, though less safe for inexperienced riders.

• Use valet garages: Some hotels and private garages will take care of parking for you, a worthwhile luxury in peak season.

Traffic on the Amalfi Coast

Traffic conditions vary depending on the season, time of day, and even local festivals.

High Season Congestion

From May through September, expect heavy congestion. Buses, delivery vans, rental cars, and local drivers all compete for space. Traffic jams are common near Positano and Amalfi.

One-Way Restrictions

In recent years, local authorities have introduced odd-even driving restrictions during peak months. This means on certain days, cars with license plates ending in an odd number can drive, and on others only even numbers are allowed. Check the latest rules before your trip.

Passing Buses and Large Vehicles

The SITA buses dominate the road. When they approach, locals often pull over to give them room. Don’t panic—just slow down, hug the wall, and let them pass.

Rush Hours

Morning and late afternoon see the heaviest traffic as locals commute and tourists arrive or depart. Midday tends to be less crowded.

Safety Tips for Driving the Amalfi Coast

Driving here can be safe and enjoyable if you follow some basic precautions:

1. Stay alert and avoid distractions
   Keep both hands on the wheel, avoid looking at your phone, and don’t get too absorbed in the views while driving.

2. Use your horn on blind curves
   Italians honk to signal their presence. It’s not rude—it’s safety.

3. Don’t drive when tired
   The winding roads require focus. Take breaks often, especially if you’re driving long distances from Naples or Rome.

4. Watch for scooters
   Mopeds weave quickly between cars. Check mirrors frequently before changing lanes or turning.

5. Keep speed low
   Even if the road looks clear, unexpected obstacles like pedestrians, animals, or stopped vehicles can appear.

6. Secure your belongings
   Car break-ins are rare but possible. Don’t leave valuables visible in parked cars.

7. Check insurance
   Make sure your rental car insurance covers scratches and minor damages. Narrow streets make dings almost inevitable.

When to Drive the Amalfi Coast

Timing makes a big difference.

• Best months: April, May, late September, and October. These shoulder seasons have lighter traffic and cooler weather.

• Summer (June–August): Beautiful but crowded. Expect traffic jams and parking headaches.

• Winter (November–March): Quiet, with minimal traffic. However, some hotels and restaurants close, and weather can be rainy.

If you’re nervous about driving, consider visiting in the off-season for a more relaxed experience.

Alternatives to Driving

Even if you plan to drive, it’s good to know your options.

• Buses: The SITA buses are frequent and cheap, though often crowded.

• Ferries: Boats between Positano, Amalfi, and Salerno offer a scenic and stress-free alternative.

• Private drivers: Hiring a local driver lets you enjoy the views without stress.

• Scooters: Popular with adventurous travelers, but less safe on winding roads.

Some visitors rent a car for day trips to Pompeii or Paestum but rely on ferries or buses while staying on the coast.

Practical Driving Tips

• Fuel up: Gas stations are scarce along the coast. Fill up before leaving Sorrento or Salerno.

• Manual cars: Most rentals in Italy are manual. If you need an automatic, book early.

• Navigation: GPS works, but cell signal can be spotty in tunnels. Download offline maps.

• Driving style: Italian drivers are assertive. Stay calm, follow the flow, and avoid sudden stops.

• Travel light: Smaller cars are easier to maneuver and park.

Sample Itinerary for a Driving Day

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a stress-free day trip:

1. Start early in Sorrento (around 8:00 a.m.) to beat traffic.

2. Stop in Positano for breakfast and a short walk. Park in a garage.

3. Continue to Amalfi, explore the cathedral, and enjoy lunch.

4. Drive up to Ravello, park, and stroll through the gardens of Villa Rufolo.

5. Return in the late afternoon, avoiding the busiest evening hours.

This itinerary gives you a taste of the coast without rushing or fighting for sunset parking.

Final Thoughts: Is Driving the Amalfi Coast Worth It?

Driving the Amalfi Coast is not for everyone. If you’re easily stressed by tight roads and traffic, you may prefer ferries or a private driver. But for confident drivers who prepare well, the experience is unforgettable.

By knowing the rules, planning for parking, and driving cautiously, you’ll unlock one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives. The key is patience: the Amalfi Coast is best enjoyed slowly, with frequent stops to take in the views.

So fuel up, keep your camera ready, and remember—it’s not just about getting from A to B. The Amalfi Coast road is the destination itself.