Amalfi Coast

From the 9th century, Amalfi was an independent maritime republic; its merchants traded with Byzantium, North Africa, and the Levant. Its collection of maritime laws, the Tabula de Amalpha, is considered the oldest Italian maritime law and was applied throughout the Mediterranean until the 16th century. After its conquest by the Normans in 1073 and its plundering by Pisa in 1135 and 1137, the city lost its significance.From these trade contacts emerged Arab-Norman architectural styles, such as those seen in the Chiostro del Paradiso in Amalfi. To this day, Amalfi produces handmade Bambagina paper, while Vietri sul Mare is known for its painted ceramics.The lemons of the coast, especially the variety Sfusato Amalfitano, grow in terraced gardens on the steep slopes and are protected as Limone Costa d'Amalfi by a geographical indication (IGP).

SITA's public buses connect Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, plus Amalfi with Maiori, Salerno, and Ravello. There's no direct line; you transfer in Amalfi between Salerno and Positano. Purchase tickets beforehand at tobacconists, bars, or newsstands; no tickets are sold on the bus. From May to October, buses are often full, so allow ample time for train or flight connections.From early April to late October, ferries run between Salerno, Amalfi, Positano, Sorrento, and Capri; traveling by water helps you avoid coastal road traffic jams. In rough seas, services are canceled.Driving the SS163 is challenging, and parking in the towns is scarce and expensive. At certain times, a daytime driving ban applies on the coastal road based on odd or even license plate numbers; hotel guests with a booking are exempt. Check current dates before you travel. Within the towns, you'll get around on foot, mostly via stairs and steep alleys.