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Amalfi ItalyCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Amalfi

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.

Weather

Amalfi enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers between 77–86°F (25–30°C) during the peak cruise season from May to October. Light clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential; a light layer for evenings and boat excursions is useful. The UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast — arguably the most dramatically beautiful coastline in the Mediterranean — with its cliff-clinging villages, lemon groves, and azure waters rewards visitors in any season.

Average Temperature (°F)
5643Jan5844Feb6046Mar6550Apr7358May8367Jun8972Jul8871Aug8065Sep7560Oct6452Nov5947Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
5.14Jan3.26Feb4.86Mar3.26Apr4.92May2.31Jun0.89Jul1.97Aug6.54Sep3.94Oct7.8Nov5.3Dec

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

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Amalfi Cathedral
A stunning 9th-century cathedral dedicated to Saint Andrew, featuring a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Byzantine architectural styles. Visitors can admire its grand facade, bronze doors, and the crypt housing the relics of Saint Andrew.
Cloister of Paradise
An enchanting 13th-century cloister adjacent to the Amalfi Cathedral, known for its Arab-Norman architecture with interlaced arches and a lush garden. It served as a burial ground for noble Amalfitan citizens.
Emerald Grotto
A captivating sea cave famous for its unique emerald-green water, caused by sunlight filtering through an underwater crevice. Visitors can explore the grotto by small boat, admiring the stalactites and stalagmites.
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.
Ancient Arsenals of the Amalfi Republic
These medieval shipyards were once the heart of Amalfi's maritime power, where galleys for trade and war were built. Today, the preserved arches house exhibitions on Amalfi's history and its naval prowess.
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.
Valley of the Mills
A scenic hiking trail winding through a lush valley, home to the ruins of ancient paper mills and ironworks powered by the Canneto River. It offers a refreshing escape into nature and a glimpse into Amalfi's industrial past.
Fountain of St. Andrew
A prominent 18th-century fountain located in Piazza Duomo, featuring a statue of Saint Andrew and other mythological figures. It's a popular meeting point and a beautiful example of local artistry.
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.
Amalfi Beach
The main beach of Amalfi, situated directly in front of the town center. It's a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere with views of the colorful houses clinging to the cliffs.
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.
Diocesan Museum
Located within the Basilica del Crocifisso, adjacent to the Amalfi Cathedral, this museum displays sacred art, liturgical vestments, and precious artifacts from the archdiocese, offering insights into the region's religious history.
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.
Torre dello Ziro
A historic watchtower perched high on a cliff overlooking Amalfi and Atrani, offering panoramic views of the coastline. It's accessible via a scenic hiking trail and is associated with local legends.
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.
Spiaggia del Duoglio
A beautiful pebble beach located just west of Amalfi, known for its clear waters and more secluded atmosphere compared to the main town beach. It can be reached by a long staircase or by boat.
Museo Civico di Amalfi
A small civic museum that houses various artifacts and documents related to Amalfi's rich history, including its maritime past and its role as a powerful maritime republic.