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Amalfi Cruise Port Guide

Italy

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Your tender boat will drop you directly at the base of Amalfi town, making it exceptionally convenient to explore on foot. Amalfi is historically significant, having established the 'rules of the sea' in the 14th century, a legacy still remembered on a tiled map. The town boasts a grand cathedral with an imposing stairway, a fanciful neo-Byzantine facade, and an ancient bronze door from Constantinople. Wandering through every nook and cranny of its streets often reveals delightful surprises.

Getting Around from the Port

Upon arrival, you'll find yourself right at the town's base, allowing for easy walking access to the main sights. For travel beyond the immediate town, local buses are an inexpensive option. Taxis are also available but are known to be expensive. If you're considering renting a car, be aware that the famous Amalfi road, while incredibly scenic, can also be challenging and intimidating to drive. For organized excursions, it's a good idea to compare tours offered by your cruise line with those from independent providers like GetYourGuide and Viator.

Attractions and Activities

Explore Amalfi Town: Dedicate time to wander through Amalfi's pedestrian streets, which are filled with restaurants and souvenir shops. Discover the magnificent Amalfi Cathedral, notable for its imposing stairway, neo-Byzantine facade, and ancient bronze door from Constantinople. Don't miss the tiled map commemorating the town's historical maritime achievements.
Emerald Grotto (La Grotta dello Smeraldo): Located 5 km west of Amalfi in the town of Conca dei Marini, this beautiful sea cave is accessible via daily one-hour boat excursions from Amalfi. Boats depart hourly from 9 am, with the last departure at 3:30 pm, as the grotto closes at 4 pm. This trip offers a unique opportunity to see both the grotto and a segment of the stunning Amalfi Coast by sea.
Visit Positano by Ferry: Take a scenic 25-minute ferry trip to the picturesque town of Positano. Arriving by sea is widely considered the best way to fully appreciate the unique beauty of this iconic cliffside village, offering spectacular views as you approach.

Dining & Shopping

Amalfi is one of the larger towns on the coast, featuring charming squares connected by pedestrian streets bustling with restaurants and souvenir shops. Many cafes in town also offer free WiFi for customers. Be sure to look for famous local products such as Limoncello and artisanal paper. Most shops and businesses in Italy typically open Monday to Saturday, generally from 8 am until 1 pm, and then from about 4 pm until 7 pm. Some shops may close on Saturday afternoons or Monday mornings, and while traditionally everything except bars and restaurants closes on Sunday, Sunday opening is becoming more common in larger cities and tourist areas.

Safety

While exploring Amalfi, be aware that taxis can be quite expensive. If you're considering renting a car, please note that the Amalfi road, despite its beauty, is often described as challenging and potentially scary to navigate. The general emergency number in Italy is 112.

Top Attractions

Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi)

Dominating Amalfi's main square, the Duomo is a stunning architectural masterpiece. Its striped Byzantine facade and intricate bronze doors are captivating. Climb the grand staircase, explore the crypt, and marvel at the relics of St. Andrew. The adjacent Cloister of Paradise offers a tranquil escape with its Arab-Norman architecture and lush gardens. A must-see for history and art lovers!

Valle delle Ferriere

Escape the coastal crowds and venture into the Valle delle Ferriere, a lush nature reserve. Hike through verdant forests, alongside cascading waterfalls, and past ancient paper mills. The unique microclimate supports rare ferns and plant life. It's a refreshing and rewarding experience for nature lovers and hikers seeking tranquility.

Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo)

Accessible by boat or elevator from the coastal road, the Emerald Grotto is a sea cave illuminated by an ethereal emerald light. Sunlight filters through an underwater opening, creating a magical spectacle. Take a short boat tour to admire the stalactites and stalagmites, and marvel at the natural beauty. A captivating experience!

Museo della Carta (Paper Mill Museum)

Discover Amalfi's rich papermaking history at the Museo della Carta. Housed in a 13th-century paper mill, the museum showcases the traditional techniques used to create Amalfi paper. See the old machinery, learn about the process, and even try your hand at making your own paper. A fascinating glimpse into local craftsmanship.

Rua Nova

Rua Nova is the main shopping street in Amalfi. It's a narrow, bustling lane filled with shops selling souvenirs, local crafts, ceramics, clothing, and food products. It's a great place to find unique gifts and sample local delicacies. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. A vibrant and essential part of the Amalfi experience.

Spiaggia Grande (Amalfi Beach)

Spiaggia Grande is Amalfi's main beach, offering stunning views of the town and the coastline. Relax on the sand, soak up the sun, and take a refreshing dip in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Rent a sunbed and umbrella, or enjoy a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants. It can get crowded, especially in summer, but it's a classic Amalfi experience.

Arsenale della Repubblica

The Arsenale della Repubblica is a historic shipyard that dates back to the Maritime Republic of Amalfi. It's one of the few remaining examples of medieval shipyards in Italy. Today, it serves as a museum and exhibition space, showcasing Amalfi's maritime history and naval power. A fascinating glimpse into the past.

Fontana di Sant'Andrea

Located in Piazza del Duomo, the Fontana di Sant'Andrea is a beautiful Baroque fountain dedicated to Saint Andrew, the patron saint of Amalfi. Admire the intricate sculptures and the cascading water. It's a popular spot for photos and a refreshing place to pause and take in the atmosphere of the square.

Lido delle Sirene

Lido delle Sirene is a beach club located on Amalfi's main beach, Spiaggia Grande. It offers sunbeds, umbrellas, and beachside service. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sea in comfort. There is also a restaurant and bar.