How I Explored the Amalfi Coast on a Budget (And Why I’d Do It Again)

Instead of booking pricey accommodation in Amalfi or Positano, I chose Salerno as my base. This not only saved money but gave me a more authentic, less tourist-heavy experience. From Salerno, you can explore the Amalfi Coast using public transport — a bit challenging, yes, but worth every effort.

Salerno isn’t just a strategic place to stay — it’s a destination in its own right. The beautiful old town, with its narrow- cobbled streets and lively atmosphere, is full of charm. From the main train station, there’s a long pedestrian street lined with shops that leads you into the old city — perfect for an afternoon stroll or a bit of shopping.

I explored the Amalfi Coast using a mix of regional trains, SITA buses, and ferries. The bus service, though cheap and scenic, can be irregular. For example, if you're in Positano and want to return to Salerno, you often need to first go to Amalfi, change bus and hope to get a spot to Salerno — otherwise, you have to wait for an hour. Ferries are easier but more expensive. You can buy regional bus tickets outside the Salerno train station or online. The main SITA bus stop is just outside the station

Important Tip: Positano, while stunning, is not ideal for those with walking difficulties. The town is steep with lots of stairs, though they do have small local buses that help — just check the timetable ahead of time.

To visit Sorrento, you can take a train: Salerno to Naples, then Naples to Sorrento. It’s the same route if you're planning to visit Pompeii. I suggest booking Pompeii tickets online to skip queues. https://www.sorrentoinsider.com/en/naples-to-sorrento-train-schedule

Amalfi is a must. While you’re there, treat yourself to lemoncello sorbet served in the real, oversized lemons that grow in the region. It’s refreshing and delicious.

And don’t miss trying a shot of the famous lemoncello drink while you're at it!

Even in May, the Amalfi Coast was busy with tourists — though locals said it gets "chock-a-block" from June onwards. The bus ride itself is an experience — the narrow cliff roads, the dramatic views, and the incredible skill and patience of the drivers make it memorable.

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Final Thoughts

Despite the occasional transport hiccup, doing the Amalfi Coast on a budget — staying in Salerno, using public transport, and planning ahead — is totally worth it. The culture, scenery, and small surprises (like lemoncello in a lemon!) made it an unforgettable experience.

Thanks for reading! I hope this guide helps make your Amalfi dream both affordable and unforgettable.

✍️ This article was crafted from my personal travel experience with editing and formatting support by AI (ChatGPT).