The beautiful UNESCO coast of Southern Italy, Costiera Amalfitana —known to you as the Amalfi Coast — has always had a reputation for honeymooners and couples. With the romantic setting and picturesque cliffs, I can see why.
However, this wondrous location is also a perfect setting for families of all ages.
For the past eight years, my favorite part of exploring the region has been seeing the children playing soccer in the hidden piazzas, discovering the off-the-beaten path playful beaches, and joining my vendors and their families during a typical lunch near the sea with some of the freshest food you could imagine.
5 Tips for taking kids to the Amalfi Coast of Italy
With so many wonderful excursions available and small towns to explore, I wanted to share some tips on the best way to make the most out of your family fun escape to the Campania region of Italy!
1. Finding the best place to stay
Each area of the coast has its own unique feature. Keeping in consideration budget, how many times you have visited Italy, and the ages of the children, this can make all the difference.
Here is a quick breakdown of the areas and my thoughts:
Sorrento: Although, not technically on the Amalfi Coast, it is still just a 30-minute ride away and the most convenient, practical, and safest place for families to explore. You can easily get on just about any boat to reach the islands of Capri, Amalfi, or Positano. Plus, it’s a bit closer to trains, buses, and the airport.
The town of Amalfi: The town itself is a bit crowded. However, I do still think this is a good location for families who want to make the most out of their trip. It is a much smaller version of Sorrento, but works well if you really want to say on the actual Amalfi Coast. There are restaurants, gelaterie, and it has several boats going out from the port and even a bus that goes up to Ravello!
Positano: This town may be one of my favorite locations in all of the world so I would, of course, recommend staying here… but only if you have an active family. There are about 1,100 steps from the very top of the town to the main beach and you will most likely need to take some steps to get up or into your accommodation (it is located on a cliff). However, if all the family can take the walk, I say it is sure is worth the experience. There are wonderful hikes, great beaches, and some great pastry shops in town to enjoy!
Quick Tip: For ages 14 and under, consider Sorrento. For ages 14+, Consider Amalfi and Positano.
2. Relax at the best beaches in town
The Amalfi Coast is known for its seaside, of course. The beaches are set up with chairs with umbrellas, there are restaurants nearby, paddle boards and kayaks to rent, and local shops to explore. There is really all you need to keep everyone happy!
I recommend heading before 10 a.m. for the best experience. You also will have more sun time! Remember, the Amalfi coast is on a cliff, so you only will have the sun for the early part of the day on most of the beaches.
Quick Tip: Consider visiting Tiberio Beach if heading to the island of Capri for the day to join other local Italian families.
3. Explore the ruins of the region
When visiting a beach-side town, do you want to explore the archaeological sites? Yes!
Pompeii is one of the most incredible places in the world! What an experience for a family to see this site and learn together!
If you book a tour guide, you can experience the best parts of the site in just two hours. Plus, I always find children are amazed with the view of Mt. Vesuvius in the background and the fresh granita (lemon ice drink) available outside the site. My advice… don’t skip the ‘Scavi di Pompeii.”
Quick Tips: Explore Pompeii after 3 p.m. for the best experience and least crowds. Also, consider a private driver to take you there. The trains may be cheaper, but I always feel it is safer and a time saver to just invest in the driver.
4. Try these great activities during vacation
Whether you are in a local restaurant or private home, a great way for families to bond is through a cooking class. What I also love the most is choosing a group class so you is meet other families from around the world during the experience. Bonus: Rain or shine, this activity works!
With some many wonderful locations from Sorrento to Positano, you are sure to find something wonderful to explore when hiking. These trails can lead you to breathtaking views, hidden beaches, and even small towns where they make their own mozzarella!
If a private boat is not in your budget, don’t forget to utilize the local ferries from for a way to experience the coast by sea.
Quick Tip: Take the last ferry back for a sunset view. You can even buy soft drinks and snacks on board for an impromptu picnic!
5. Don’t shy away from visiting during the summer months
As a travel consultant, I hear often that my clients would like to avoid the busy months for travel. However, the summer is the only time this region is fully open and it’s the longest vacation time for the kids, so go ahead and enjoy it!
If you are worried about hitting the crowds, simply contact a travel expert like myself or book at least seven months in advance and you will be sure to still have an authentic and enjoyable experience even with the crowds.
As someone who lives half the year in Italy, I can say that even after 100+ times of visiting the Amalfi Coast, it gets better and better. The warmth of the people, the perfect temperature, the fresh food — all I can say is that your family will be forever grateful.
Take a chance and introduce your loved ones to a region that is the heart of the Italian summer. Let’s start to make the spread the world: Amalfi Coast is open to all ages and family travel too!
Cassandra Santoro is the CEO and Founder of Travel Italian Style. As a personal trip planner and luxury small group tour operator, Cassandra is an expert in slow-travel and authentic experiences throughout Italy. Learn more about her at travelitalianstyle.com.
