The decision to visit the Amalfi Coast in winter depends on your preferences. If you appreciate serene towns and the calming ambiance of the seaside during the off-season, and you prefer exploring the coast without the hustle and bustle of traffic and crowds, then a visit between November and March might be ideal for you.
However, if you relish the lively atmosphere of a bustling resort town with glamorous clubs and nightlife, then the summer months would be more suitable for your visit.
The tourist season on the Amalfi Coast typically concludes around the first weekend in November, coinciding with All Saints’ Day. Many seaside establishments, such as restaurants, hotels, beach clubs, and cafés, close between mid-October and early November, depending on the weather.
Nevertheless, some businesses remain operational through the Christmas and New Year holidays, as the weather often remains mild enough in November and December to attract holiday-goers seeking to enjoy the last clear and balmy days of the year. From early January to early March, however, additional businesses close as locals embark on their vacations to warmer destinations, temporarily shutting down their operations until the following season.
For a winter break, it is recommended to stay in Sorrento or Salerno and venture along the coast to explore the renowned villages on day trips, benefiting from reduced traffic during the high season. Amalfi and Vietri Sul Mare are usually the liveliest towns during the winter, while Positano experiences a virtual lull in activity during January and February.
The positive aspect is that traffic is almost nonexistent in winter, compared to the often challenging or impossible driving conditions on the coastal road in summer. During winter, the best transportation option is by car, offering ease of movement, ample parking availability, and greater independence.
Although the local Sita buses operate less frequently in winter compared to summer, they are less crowded, providing the advantage of securing a seat. Ferry routes are suspended from the end of October to the beginning of April.
While the larger 4 and 5-star hotels typically close at the end of October, finding accommodations in smaller hotels or numerous bed & breakfasts along the coast is easily manageable.
However, locating open restaurants may pose a challenge, as many establishments close for holidays in January and February. Each town’s website features an updated list of open cafés and restaurants, and on weekends, several restaurants open to serve clients seeking to enjoy a sunny winter day by the water.
Restaurants and Bars open in Positano in winter include:
Winter on the Amalfi Coast unveils a quieter, more authentic charm, offering visitors a serene escape from the summer crowds. Embracing misty cliffs, deserted streets, and cozy trattorias, the off-season unveils a unique and enchanting side of this Mediterranean gem. So, consider trading the bustling summer scene for a more peaceful, contemplative experience on the Amalfi Coast this winter.
