After our Northern Italy road trip, I wrote a general guide on driving in Italy — but the Amalfi Coast deserves its own chapter. Here, traffic, parking, and road culture follow their own rules. If you’re planning to drive along these legendary cliffside roads, here are the essential tips from our experience.
Choose the Right Car – The Smaller, the Better
Amalfi’s roads are narrow, winding, and parking is limited. A big car is a big mistake. When renting, remember the golden rule: the smaller, the better. A compact car will save you headaches in traffic and when squeezing into tiny parking spots.
We would have loved a classic Fiat 500 or Mini Cooper, but with luggage in tow we settled for a BMW 116 and a Peugeot 208. Both were compact enough to be practical — and still fun to drive.
Always Have Navigation
Don’t skip the GPS. One of our friends insisted on “just reading a map” to save money, but honestly — with endless switchbacks, that would have been a nightmare. Plus, the views are so distracting that nobody in the car will want to keep their eyes on directions. Trust us, get the navigation.
Timing is Everything
In summer, driving the Amalfi Coast can be pure torture. Narrow roads + tourist buses = endless jams. If you can, avoid July and August. The sweet spot is mid-September to May. You’ll skip the gridlock but still get sunshine. If swimming is a priority, aim for early fall or late spring.
Expect Narrow and One-Lane Roads
These are not highways — most Amalfi roads are one lane each way, with sharp turns and steep cliffs. At times you’ll find sections so narrow that only one vehicle can pass at a time, controlled by lights or police. Other times, you’ll round a corner and suddenly face a line of cars waiting because two buses can’t squeeze past each other. Always drive at a speed that lets you stop suddenly. Surprises are part of the Amalfi experience.
Experience Required
These roads are not for new or nervous drivers. They’re narrow, full of blind curves, and often have a sheer drop on one side. Even seasoned drivers get sweaty palms when a coach bus comes barreling around the corner. If you’re prone to panic, let someone else take the wheel. And if you’re the type who drives aggressively, ignores speed limits, or gets angry easily — do yourself (and everyone else) a favor and don’t drive here.
Don’t Skip Insurance
Many Amalfi rental cars already carry scars: scratches, dents, broken mirrors. Get the extra insurance. You’ll thank yourself later.
Local Driving Culture
One of the most refreshing things? Locals are surprisingly patient and helpful with tourists struggling on the road. Sure, you’ll sometimes hear horns (especially in Naples), but on the Amalfi Coast, most drivers will give you space and even help guide you through tight spots.
Watch the Signals
Bus drivers are the true masters of these roads. When space is tight, follow their hand signals — they’ll literally guide you through.
Other signals to know:
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Horn blasts: Buses honk when approaching blind curves to warn oncoming cars.
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Flashing headlights: A warning from other drivers — pay attention, something’s ahead.
Parking Like a Pro
Parking is one of the toughest parts of driving Amalfi. Spaces are few, garages are rare, and street parking is tight. Be ready for serious parallel parking practice. Always fold in your mirrors and don’t leave valuables in the car.
Fill Up Before You Go
Gas is more expensive along the coast than on the highways. Top up before heading into Amalfi to save money and avoid stress.
Afraid of Heights? Drive South to North
If sheer drops make you dizzy, start from Salerno and head north toward Positano and Sorrento. That way, you’ll be on the inner side of the road, closer to the cliffs than the edge — while your passengers enjoy the sea views without you sweating bullets.
Wanderlab Insight: Driving the Amalfi Coast isn’t easy — but it’s unforgettable. If you come prepared with the right car, insurance, and patience, it’s one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever take.
