Here we go!
You have already made up your mind: the destination of your next holiday will be the Amalfi Coast.
You have probably already decided what your destination will be and set your departure dates.
Perhaps you have chosen to reach our area by taking advantage of the convenience of public transport, thus avoiding the inconvenience of having to find a parking space or having to face a long drive.
Now, however, you are left with a few doubts:
🔹How do I get around the Amalfi Coast?
🔹Will I be able to rent a car to move in total autonomy between one village and another?‘
Since so many people, like you, write to us every day looking for this information, we have decided to gather all the answers in this comprehensive guide, dedicated precisely to car hire on the Amalfi Coast!
In the paragraphs you are about to read, we will try to tackle the issue from all angles, starting with the very questions we receive most often:
🔹how do the roads on the Amalfi Coast look?
🔹Can you drive easily, even if you are not accustomed to narrow, winding roads?
🔹What are the most crowded periods? Which car is the best to rent?
🔹Where to hire it?
In short, all you have to do is read this article to add another valuable piece to your holiday planning.
Table of Contents
The pros and cons of hiring a car on the Amalfi Coast: find out if driving along the SS163 is the right choice for you!
The moment you spot the SS 163 you WILL be in ecstasy.
What you will witness, as the road opens up before you, will leave you breathless with the beauty of the landscape: a blue stretch, framed by rugged rocks that seem to plunge into the sea. And then, green everywhere: a lush, brilliant nature that will seem like a beating pulse of life. There it is, tiny houses, a few blue, green or brown little doors, the gates of almost secret gardens that hold fragrant lemons, balconies with laundry hung out to dry in the sun, nooks and crannies of peace with an old-world flavour.
Beauty that embeds itself in the memory in the form of poetry and never goes away.
This romantic moment, however, will be followed by the more rational phase: the one in which, at the first bus coming from the other side of the road, you will realise that the road is really very winding, that there are tight curves, that bicyclists, runners and strollers also circulate along the road, indifferent to the danger or, more likely, so accustomed to the morphology of their road that they are not afraid of it.
Therefore, we feel it is essential to provide you with a brief overview of the pros and cons of car hire on the Amalfi Coast. This is crucial information for any traveller reaching the Amalfi Coast for the first time and wishing to get a better idea of the situation.
Car rental on the Amalfi Coast: here’s why it will make your holiday more comfortable
Car rental on the Amalfi Coast: the ode to freedom
The Amalfi Coast, with its narrow roads and breathtaking views, is an invitation to adventure.
If you opt for a car rental, you can really turn your holiday into an unforgettable experience, without having to adapt your needs to bus timetables and crowded ferry runs: with a car at your disposal, you set the pace of the journey.
You can explore the hidden and authentic soul of the Amalfi Coast
As we often say in our articles, the Amalfi Coast is not just Amalfi and Positano: there are so many places worth discovering, far from the usual routes or itineraries suggested by travel influencers.
Venturing out by car means discovering enchanting villages such as Furore, with its picturesque fjord, Conca dei Marini, with the evocative Emerald Grotto, or Tramonti, an oasis of peace in the Lattari mountains. These places, often difficult to reach by public transport, reveal the authentic soul of the Coast, made up of centuries-old traditions and breathtaking views.
If you rent a car, you have the convenience of reaching the hillside gems
If your accommodation is located in hillside areas, such as the village of Scala or in one of the hamlets of the verdant Tramonti, the car becomes a valuable ally: these localities, while offering spectacular views, are not always efficiently connected by public transport.
If you rent a car, you will be able to move around without stress, enjoying the tranquillity and beauty of these unique places, without giving up the pleasure of discovery during your stay.
Are you looking for information on how to reach your destination on the Amalfi Coast?
By car you can enjoy magical nights, special events and unforgettable dinners
The Amalfi Coast at night turns into a romantic stage, with the lights of the villages reflecting on the sea. We also talked about this in the article, dedicated precisely to couples who are planning a romantic getaway in our parts.
The only problem is that, if you are not independent, you have difficulty getting around, as there is a lack of public services at night.
With a car, you can fully experience the magic of the evening, reaching panoramic restaurants, trendy clubs or attending exclusive events, without worrying about public transport timetables.
🔹Want to dine in Ravello, with a view of the illuminated coast?
🔹Want to dance late at a club in Positano?
With a car, the night is yours.
If you rent a car, you can plan a tailor-made trip
Renting a car on the Amalfi Coast means creating a tailor-made itinerary, choosing the places to visit, the times to stop and the activities to do. Whether you want to explore hidden beaches, trek the scenic trails, or simply enjoy the dolce far niente, a car will allow you to experience the Coast at your own pace, transforming your holiday into a personalised and unforgettable adventure.
Here you will find all the experiences we have selected for travellers!
Car rental on the Amalfi Coast: the pitfalls you can’t ignore
As we have already said, the SS 163 is not an easy road.
But this is not the only negative aspect to consider if you are thinking of renting a car during your holiday on the Amalfi Coast.
Let’s see, then, what are the cons of this choice.
Thrilling roads: a route for experienced and intrepid drivers
The roads of the Amalfi Coast, carved into the rock and overlooking the sea, offer breathtaking views, but require careful and cautious driving. The sharp bends, narrow stretches and heavy traffic, especially in high season, can test your nerves.
If you are not an experienced driver and are used to mountain roads, if you have been driving for a short time and are used to comfortable and spacious roads, you may find yourself in difficulty.
Parking shortage: a factor not to be underestimated
Finding parking on the Amalfi Coast, especially if you venture to more iconic destinations such as Positano and Amalfi, can become an almost impossible job.
The few available car parks are often expensive and crowded, forcing you to wait for long periods of time or to give up parking. In high season, the situation becomes even more difficult, with the risk of having to leave your car kilometres away from your destination.
Beware of limited traffic zones
Many historic centres on the Amalfi Coast are restricted traffic zones (ZTL), accessible only to residents or authorised vehicles. Unauthorised entry into these zones results in hefty penalties, which can ruin your travel budget.
We advise you to pay close attention to LTZs before setting off to avoid unpleasant surprises.
If you travel during the peak season, take into account the possibility of traffic on your route
If you travel during the peak months (July and August) or on weekends between Easter and early autumn, you must take into consideration traffic along the road and the risk of traffic jams.
You have to be aware, in fact, that due to the narrow and winding carriageway, real traffic jams often occur along the road, with buses or cars getting stuck in particularly narrow places, creating almost surreal situations, which can only be resolved through complicated manoeuvres by drivers and sometimes requiring dozens and dozens of minutes.
If you are travelling in the high season, be prepared to face the traffic and take much longer than expected.
All about car hire on the Amalfi Coast: locals’ advice
Having dealt with the advantages and disadvantages of the Amalfi Coast car rental solution, let’s now move on to the most succulent part of this article: the locals’ practical tips for taking the action!
Which car to rent on the Amalfi Coast?
We have already mentioned several times the narrow and winding roads, which require a certain amount of driving safety.
In addition to this, we recommend an agile and compact car, capable of juggling tight curves and narrow parking spaces. A small car, such as the Fiat 500 or Smart, is the ideal choice: small, manoeuvrable, and easy to park, it will allow you to explore the Coast in complete freedom, reaching even the most hidden alleys.
If you are a fan of SUVs and large berliners, we tell you this: the challenges of manoeuvring and parking could turn your holiday into a stressful experience. We often see many travellers with very large cars in serious difficulty along the SS 163: it is often they who get stuck in the traffic jams we mentioned.
Even if you feel like an experienced driver, we advise you to opt for smaller cars, which will allow you to juggle your routes with greater agility.
The electric or hybrid car is an interesting option, especially for those who want a sustainable driving experience, but we would like to point out that recharging stations are still few and far between on the Amalfi Coast, and that autonomy may be limited by climbs and bends.
Progress will certainly be made in this direction, but at the moment we advise you to opt for fuel-powered cars, to travel serenely and relaxed, without the thought of ‘Where should I charge the car?
Where is it convenient to rent a car?
Our first suggestion is to rent a car in Salerno or Naples, depending on your arrival destination, as doing so directly on the Amalfi Coast can be significantly more expensive and offer you less choice.
At Naples Capodichino Airport, Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport, or near the central station in Salerno, you will find several companies specialising in car hire.
Salerno airport, in particular, offers a strategic location a short distance from the Coast, with several car rental companies available and a convenient free shuttle service: prices here tend to be more competitive than in Naples or the rental centres on the Coast.
Naples Capodichino airport is also a good option, with a wide choice of companies and competitive rates.
Alternatively, Salerno’s central station offers several rental agencies in the city centre, ideal for those arriving by train.
Our advice to you is to evaluate the various companies available and their respective offers, depending on your destination of arrival. Take your time and book in advance, taking also into account any promotions provided for those who book in early.
How much does it cost to rent a car on the Amalfi Coast?
The cost of a car rental on the Amalfi Coast is certainly influenced by the time of year and the type of vehicle you choose. Generally speaking, for a small car, prices range between 30 and 70 euros per day in low season (October-April), while in high season (May-September) they can go up to 70-150 euros per day.
SUVs, while not the most recommended choice for the narrow coastal roads, have rates ranging from 80 to 200 euro per day in low season, and 150 to 300 euro per day in high season.
If, on the other hand, you want an exclusive driving experience, luxury car rental is an available option, with prices starting at 250 euros per day and can increase considerably depending on the vehicle type and rental company.
These are, of course, rough estimates, which can vary depending on several factors, such as availability, the offers of the individual rental companies and contractual conditions.
As we have already told you, it is always useful and wise to start a little in advance, evaluating different companies and comparing prices and conditions before making a booking.
Things to know about travelling by car on the Amalfi Coast: our advice
Below, we provide some tips that will be very useful when travelling by car on the Amalfi Coast.
As good locals, we are familiar both with our roads and with the hardships of the many travellers and tourists who traverse them every year.
In order to avoid stress, discomfort, unexpected events, and any difficulties, there is some very useful information you need to know even before you rent your car, to really understand if this solution is right for you.
By the way, have you already read our guide with the 8 tips for those visiting the Amalfi Coast for the first time?
What to do and what not to do when driving along the roads of the Amalfi Coast
Have you tried typing ‘Strada Statale Amalfitana’ into the search engine?
If you try to do so, a number of images will appear depicting our roads: you will notice, among the various photos available, a few tight and frightening bends, a few shots depicting the provincial road with wonderful views in the distance, a few photos from the other side, which really give a clearer idea of the conformation of the Amalfi Coast.
As you can see, the road is very tight and very difficult to navigate.
We advise you to take it literally: we are not merely exaggerating to frighten you or to urge caution.
Driving along these roads requires a bit of courage and very, very careful driving, especially when buses or large cars from the opposite direction are approaching: in the latter case, the feeling is that the other car is practically in front of you.
When you are not used to it, it can be stressful to drive here.
So take this into account strongly, especially if you are already an anxious and very scrupulous driver: for you, the first hour of driving along State Road 163 could be very tiring.
3 tips for driving on the Amalfi Coast
✅ Don’t get distracted with your smartphone: since you don’t know the road well and you have to get used to its sharp bends, avoid for any reason picking up your smartphone while driving. Please keep your full attention and concentration: even a small distraction can cause inconvenience and endanger your safety or that of other drivers.
✅ Drive at low speed if it’s raining: you know those sudden summer downpours that cool down July or August afternoons? Besides ruining a few pleasant afternoons at the beach, they can make driving a little more complicated, as the road becomes more slippery with the first rains. In view of the hairpin bends to be negotiated and the very narrow roadway, if you happen to be driving during a summer storm, proceed with extreme caution.
✅ Don’t panic: if a bus comes along on the other side and you have the feeling that you are stuck in a particularly narrow part of the road, slow down and don’t get anxious. SITA bus drivers are able to perform complicated manoeuvres to get out of traffic jams and, if necessary, are able to give you directions on how to manoeuvre your vehicle so that you can restore traffic flow on both sides of the road.
SOS Parking: where do I put the car?
Here we get to the heart of the most discussed and searched-for topic by travellers to the Amalfi Coast: the parking issue.
This is a really hot topic, since the huge tourism flow, combined with the shortage of parking spaces in some towns, creates a real problem of scarcity, which has generated an exponential increase in prices over the years.
In short, finding a parking space on the Amalfi Coast can be a real nightmare, especially if you travel in high season or at weekends.
For this reason, here we will provide you with some advice on where and how to park when travelling.
We also talk about parking on the Amalfi Coast in this article on our site.
Where to park on the Amalfi Coast?
Let’s start with the places where it is easiest to find parking: Amalfi, with its Luna Rossa car park is certainly the most convenient way to park. Costs range from 3 to 4 euros per hour for short stays.
Here you can check the availability of parking spaces in real time.
Vietri sul Mare also offers a fair amount of parking spaces and stands out for its lower parking costs, with a central car park near Corso Umberto and parking spaces at Marina di Vietri.
In Maiori, on the other hand, there is a small car park on the seafront and blue stripes along the street are available, with the Mandara private car park, which we recommend booking in advance.
In Minori, things get more complicated: although the flow of tourists is lower than in other destinations on the coast, at certain times of the year it is difficult to find a parking space. If you want to stop here, try to find parking on the seafront and along Via Nazionale. The Parcheggio della Mura, inside the town, is a valid alternative option: check availability before reaching it.
If you wish to park in Ravello, you won’t find many difficulties: leave your car at the Oscar Niemeyer Car Park (average cost: around €4 per hour) or the Il Ponte Car Park, ideal for longer stays.
We advise you to avoid Furore and Positano in the high season due to the difficulty of parking, and to pay attention to the ZTL and resident-only car parks. If you wish to stay in these locations, it would be preferable to reach them by public transport or to check the availability of parking spaces in private car parks in advance, booking in advance.
Remember that short-stay rates in Positano can vary between €4 and €7 per hour.
Beware of ZTLs!
The issue of Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL) on the Amalfi Coast is of fundamental importance for anyone planning to visit this beautiful region. ZTLs were established to limit vehicular traffic, especially in historic centres, in order to preserve the environment and improve the quality of life for residents and visitors.
Recently, the Territorial ZTL has also been introduced, a significant innovation proposed by the mayor of Amalfi, Daniele Milano, and now included in the Highway Code, with the aim of providing a new model of sustainable management of tourist destinations, with the goal of reducing traffic and promoting more sustainable mobility.
So, check the current regulations carefully before setting out, as the rules of LTZs can vary and the penalties for infringements can be severe. Inform yourself in advance about permitted access times, authorised vehicles and the need for specific permits to avoid fines and penalties.
What if I consider Car Rental with Driver?
Some useful ideas for evaluating an alternative to car hire on the Amalfi Coast
As you may have already guessed if you’ve read this far, the Amalfi Coast, with its winding roads and breathtaking views, can turn into an unforgettable adventure… or a traffic jam nightmare!
If the idea of juggling hairpin bends and impossible parking spots has you a bit anxious, a private driver (NCC) could be your lifeline.
Of course, you have to factor in a higher cost compared to renting a car: we’re talking about €100-200 each way, but the comfort and freedom to enjoy the scenery without worries might be worth the price, especially for small groups or families.
If you are travelling with children, don’t miss this guide!
Car rental: an option to consider carefully
Car rental can be tempting, but is advisable if
🔹you are travelling off-season, when traffic is less intense;
🔹if you are an experienced driver on difficult roads;
🔹if your hotel offers private parking and if you wish to explore hidden corners of the Coast, otherwise inaccessible.
As we have seen, in high season, there are two real risks: that of getting stuck in some traffic jam along the road and that of wasting endless minutes searching for a parking space.
So, if your budget allows, a private driver could be the ideal solution if you are looking for maximum comfort and relaxation. Imagine being comfortably seated in a luxury car, while an expert driver takes you to discover the most charming villages of the Coast, without having to worry about a thing.
Perfect for families, groups of friends or those who simply want to spoil themselves a little on holiday.If you are still in the exploratory phase and are looking for more information on how to organise your trip, we recommend you read this article where we talk about organising your Amalfi Coast travel itinerary.
