Don’t Get Stranded: The 2026 Amalfi Cruise Port Survival & Luxury Guide

The Amalfi cruise port requires careful planning due to limited tender boat capacity and weather dependencies. Key survival tips include booking shore excursions early, understanding tender procedures, having backup plans for weather delays, and allowing extra return time. Luxury options include private boat transfers, exclusive tours, and premium dining experiences to maximize your brief port visit.

Quick Port Facts

Fact	Detail
Port Website	Port of Salerno Official Site
Main Gateway	Port of Salerno (Molo Manfredi), with tenders or ferries to Amalfi town
Time Zone	Central European Time (CET/CEST)
Language	Italian (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
Currency	Euro (EUR)
Distance to Amalfi Town	70-80 minutes by ferry from Salerno, or 1-1.5 hours by road
Terminal	Zaha Hadid-designed cruise terminal at Molo Manfredi
Expected Passengers	Hundreds of thousands of cruise passengers annually

Port Day Checklist

• Check tender times the night before and confirm all-aboard time with your cruise line
• Pre-book private transfers or verified shore excursions to avoid sold-out ferries
• Download offline maps of Amalfi town and save emergency numbers to your phone
• Carry cash in euros for small vendors and family-run shops
• Pack sun protection, comfortable walking shoes (many cobbled streets and stairs), and a light jacket for church visits
• Have a backup land route (bus or private transfer) in case ferry services are cancelled due to weather
• Allow at least 1.5-2 hours buffer before all-aboard time if returning from Amalfi to Salerno
• Keep your cruise ship ID and a printed copy of emergency contacts separate from your wallet

Want to know more about Mediterranean cruise ports in Italy? We cover all the major stops along the Italian coast.

Amalfi Coast Port Map

Most cruise ships calling the Amalfi Coast use the Port of Salerno as the main gateway, located at Molo Manfredi with the striking Zaha Hadid-designed terminal. From Salerno, you’ll take a ferry or road transfer to reach Amalfi town itself. Smaller ships may tender directly into Amalfi’s compact harbor, but the majority of itineraries route through Salerno’s modern facilities. The terminal sits directly on the waterfront with immediate connections to Piazza della Libertà and easy access to ferry services, buses, and taxi ranks.

Can You Walk to Town from the Port?

The answer depends entirely on where your ship actually docks. Here’s the reality:

• If you dock at Salerno: The Zaha Hadid terminal is steps from Salerno’s historic waterfront and town centre, making it easy to explore Salerno itself on foot. However, Amalfi town is not walkable from Salerno – you’ll need about 30–60 minutes, depending on the service or 1-1.5 hour road transfer to reach the famous coastal villages.
• If you tender directly into Amalfi: You’re already in the heart of town. The tender drop-off is a short walk to Piazza del Duomo and the main shopping streets. Everything in Amalfi’s compact historic centre is within 5-15 minutes on foot, though be prepared for steep stairs and cobbled lanes.
• Terrain challenges: Amalfi town has narrow, stepped alleys and uneven surfaces. Wear sturdy shoes and skip wheeled luggage or strollers for day trips.
• Time management: If your cruise allocates only 6-8 hours in port and you’re starting from Salerno, factor in 3-4 hours total for round-trip transfers. That leaves just 2-4 hours for actual sightseeing in Amalfi, so plan tightly.

How to Get Around from Salerno Port & Shore Transportation

Salerno’s cruise terminal is designed as an intermodal hub with clear signage for ferries, buses, and taxis. Most cruise passengers heading to Amalfi, Positano, or Capri will use one of these options:

Ferry and Fast Boat Services

• The most scenic and popular way to reach Amalfi town from Salerno port
• Ferry services run seasonally (peak frequency May-September) with ticket desks at the terminal or pre-bookable through your cruise line
• Journey time: about 30–60 minutes, depending on the service to Amalfi, with some services stopping at Positano and other coastal towns
• Pros: Beautiful coastal views, avoids road traffic, often air-conditioned cabins
• Cons: Weather-dependent – services can be cancelled or delayed in rough seas, so always have a backup plan
• Book early in the day or pre-purchase tickets to avoid sold-out departures during peak cruise ship days

Private Transfers and Taxis

• Official taxi ranks are located at the terminal exit; look for licensed vehicles with meters
• Typical fares from Salerno to Amalfi: €50-€80 depending on traffic and time of day (confirm the fare before departure)
• Private car services or small-group shuttles can be pre-booked through your cruise line or verified local operators for fixed pricing and guaranteed return times
• Pros: Direct, flexible timing, no dependency on ferry schedules, ideal for families or groups
• Cons: More expensive than ferries, subject to coastal road traffic (especially in summer), and you’ll miss the sea views

SITA Bus Network

• Public buses connect Salerno to Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento via the coastal road
• Tickets available at the terminal or nearby kiosks; fares are budget-friendly but routes can be slow due to frequent stops
• Journey time: typically around 1–1.5 hours, longer with summer congestion
• Pros: Cheapest option, good for confident independent travellers
• Cons: Buses can be crowded in high season, limited luggage space, and tight timing may be stressful if you’re watching the clock for your ship’s departure

Cruise Line Shore Excursions

• Most major cruise lines offer organised coach tours to Amalfi, Positano, Ravello, or Capri with guaranteed return to the ship
• Pros: No risk of missing the ship, comfortable air-conditioned coaches, guided commentary
• Cons: Significantly more expensive than independent travel, large groups, fixed schedules with limited free time in each location
• Best for first-time visitors or those who prefer not to manage logistics independently

For more details on the Salerno gateway, check our complete Salerno cruise port guide.

What to See Within Walking Distance from the Port

If you tender directly into Amalfi’s small harbor, the entire historic centre is at your feet. Here’s what’s genuinely walkable:

• Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Sant’Andrea) and Piazza del Duomo: The town’s iconic Romanesque cathedral dominates the central square with its dramatic staircase and Arab-Norman facade. The interior holds relics of Saint Andrew and the stunning Cloister of Paradise. Walking time from the harbor: 5-10 minutes. Expect stairs and crowds, especially midday. Modest dress required (shoulders and knees covered).
• Cloister of Paradise (Chiostro del Paradiso): Adjacent to the cathedral, this peaceful courtyard features Moorish arches, white marble columns, and shaded gardens. A small entry fee applies, but it’s a serene contrast to the bustling piazza outside. Walking time: same as the cathedral; you’ll visit them together.
• Museo della Carta (Museum of Papermaking): Amalfi has a centuries-old tradition of handmade paper. This small museum offers demonstrations of the craft and a compact collection of historic tools. Walking time from the main square: 10 minutes. Takes about 30-45 minutes to tour. Perfect if you want something off the main tourist circuit.
• Marina Grande and Seafront Promenade: The waterfront area where tenders and ferries arrive is lined with cafés, gelato shops, and boat-watching spots. It’s a lovely place for a leisurely stroll, sunset views, and people-watching. No specific walking time – you’re already there when you arrive.
• Historic Centre Shopping Lanes (Via delle Cartiere and side streets): Wander the narrow alleys packed with ceramic shops, limoncello vendors, lemon-themed souvenirs, and local crafts. You’ll see pastel-painted houses, flower-draped balconies, and tucked-away cafés. Walking time: all within 5-15 minutes of the main square. Wear comfortable shoes as many streets are stepped or cobbled.
• Paper Mill Walk and Lemon Terraces: A self-guided stroll up the backstreets and stairways reveals traditional lemon groves, old stone buildings, and glimpses of local life away from the tourist centre. Walking time: 10-20 minutes from the main square, depending on how far you climb. Not suitable for anyone with mobility challenges.

If you’re staying in Salerno and want to explore that city instead, you’ll find a different set of attractions. For Salerno-specific sights, see our detailed Salerno port guide.

Must See Attractions in Amalfi for a One Day Cruise Visit

With limited time in port, prioritise these genuinely worthwhile experiences. Most cruise passengers have between 2-4 hours of actual sightseeing time in Amalfi after accounting for transfers from Salerno, so choose wisely.

Amalfi Cathedral and Cloister of Paradise

• What it is: A 9th-century cathedral complex blending Romanesque, Byzantine, Gothic, and Baroque styles, with a striking striped facade and the serene Cloister of Paradise featuring Arab-Norman arches.
• Why it matters: The cathedral is Amalfi’s most iconic landmark and the architectural heart of the town. The cloister offers a quiet, photogenic retreat from the crowds.
• Time needed: 45 minutes to 1 hour including time to climb the stairs, tour the interior, and visit the cloister. Queues can add 15-20 minutes in peak season.
• Practical tips: Modest dress enforced (no shorts, tank tops, or bare shoulders). Small entry fee for the cloister. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups. The stairs up to the cathedral entrance are steep but short.

Historic Centre Stroll and Shopping

• What it is: A maze of narrow lanes, ceramic boutiques, limoncello shops, and pastel-painted houses stretching back from the main piazza.
• Why it matters: This is where you’ll find authentic local crafts, handmade paper products (a historic Amalfi specialty), and family-run food shops selling regional products. It’s also the most atmospheric part of town for photography.
• Time needed: 1-1.5 hours for a leisurely wander with time to browse and buy.
• Practical tips: Cash is handy for smaller shops. Bargaining is not the norm in Amalfi. Look for the Museo della Carta if you want to see a papermaking demonstration. The lanes are stepped and uneven, so leave wheeled bags behind.

Positano (Via Ferry or Road Transfer)

• What it is: A picturesque cliffside village with cascading pastel houses, chic boutiques, and a pebble beach. Often called the jewel of the Amalfi Coast.
• Why it matters: Positano is the postcard image of the Amalfi Coast and offers a more glamorous, resort-like atmosphere than Amalfi town. It’s perfect for photos, beach time, and upscale shopping.
• Time needed: Minimum 2-3 hours including travel time from Amalfi (20-30 minutes by ferry) and a walk down to the beach and back up (steep stairs).
• Practical tips: The walk from the ferry drop-off to the town centre involves hundreds of steps. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to sweat in summer. If you’re visiting Positano, you’ll likely skip other Amalfi attractions due to time constraints. For cruise passengers starting from Salerno, a direct shore excursion to Positano may be more efficient than trying to combine it with Amalfi.

Ravello (Via Bus or Private Transfer)

• What it is: A hilltop town above Amalfi known for spectacular gardens, classical music festivals, and sweeping coastal views from Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.
• Why it matters: Ravello offers a quieter, more refined experience than the busier coastal towns. The gardens are among the most beautiful in Italy, and the views are unmatched.
• Time needed: 2-3 hours including the 20-minute bus ride up the mountain from Amalfi, garden visits, and a stroll through the village.
• Practical tips: Entry fees apply for Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone (around €7-10 each). The bus from Amalfi runs regularly but can be crowded; consider a taxi if you’re in a group. Ravello is best for travellers who prefer culture and views over beaches and shopping.

Capri Day Trip (Via Ferry from Salerno or Amalfi)

• What it is: An island off the Sorrentine Peninsula famous for the Blue Grotto, upscale shopping in Capri town, and dramatic coastal scenery.
• Why it matters: Capri is a luxury destination with a completely different feel from the mainland Amalfi Coast – more international, more polished, and more expensive.
• Time needed: Full day. Ferry from Salerno to Capri takes around 50-60 minutes; add time for getting around the island and seeing sights. Only attempt this if your ship has at least 8-10 hours in port.
• Practical tips: The Blue Grotto is weather-dependent and often has long queues. Pre-book a private boat tour to skip crowds. Capri town and Anacapri are connected by bus or funicular; plan your route in advance. This is a better fit for passengers docking overnight or with extended port time.

If you’re considering a day trip from nearby Naples, our Amalfi Coast day trip from Naples guide covers timing and transport options in detail.

Port Day Itinerary: Things to Do in 6 Hours

Here’s a realistic schedule that fits a typical 8am-5pm port day if you’re docking in Salerno and heading to Amalfi town. Adjust times if your ship offers longer or shorter calls.

• 8:00am-9:00am | Disembark and Breakfast Onboard: Skip the rush. Let the first wave of passengers clear customs and tender queues while you grab a relaxed breakfast. You’ll save stress and still have plenty of time.
• 9:00am-10:15am | Ferry from Salerno to Amalfi: Board a morning ferry (pre-booked or purchased at the terminal). Enjoy the coastal views from the water – this is one of the most scenic parts of your day. Bring sunscreen and a hat if you sit on deck.
• 10:15am-11:00am | Amalfi Cathedral and Piazza del Duomo: Walk straight to the cathedral from the ferry dock. Climb the steps, tour the interior, and visit the Cloister of Paradise. Take photos from the piazza but don’t linger too long – you’ll come back later.
• 11:00am-12:00pm | Historic Centre Shopping and Stroll: Wander the side streets, browse ceramic shops and limoncello vendors, and peek into the Museo della Carta if you’re interested in the papermaking tradition. Pick up souvenirs now before the afternoon crowds arrive.
• 12:00pm-1:30pm | Lunch at a Seaside Trattoria: Head to the Marina Grande area or a side-street trattoria for fresh seafood, pasta, and a glass of local white wine. Try scialatielli ai frutti di mare (a regional pasta dish) or grilled fish. Expect to pay €20-35 per person for a sit-down meal with wine. Cash or card both accepted at most restaurants.
• 1:30pm-2:30pm | Seafront Gelato and People-Watching: Grab a gelato from one of the waterfront vendors and stroll the promenade. This is your downtime – relax, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.
• 2:30pm-3:15pm | Return Ferry to Salerno: Board your return ferry with plenty of buffer time. Check the schedule in advance and aim for a ferry that gets you back to Salerno by 3:15-3:30pm.
• 3:30pm-4:30pm | Back to Ship with Time to Spare: Walk from the Salerno ferry dock back to your ship. You’ll have an hour to spare before all-aboard time, allowing for any delays, a quick drink in Salerno, or a final photo stop.

This schedule is comfortably paced and accounts for real-world delays like ferry queues and slow restaurant service. If you want to add Positano or Ravello, you’ll need to cut Amalfi time or choose one town instead of trying to see everything.

Where to Eat Near the Port

Amalfi’s food scene is heavily geared toward tourists, but you can still find excellent meals if you know where to look. The seafront is convenient but often overpriced; venture a few streets back for better value and more authentic cooking.

• Marina Grande Area: The waterfront restaurants offer classic Amalfi views with tables overlooking the sea. Expect fresh seafood, pasta dishes, and tourist-friendly menus in English. Mains typically €15-25. Service can be slow during peak lunch hours. Look for places with locals eating there – a good sign.
• Trattoria da Gemma: A long-standing family-run spot in the historic centre known for refined takes on Campanian classics. Expect to pay €25-40 per person. Reserve ahead in high season or arrive early. The ambiance is upscale but not stuffy.
• Side-Street Pizzerias: Several casual pizzerias sit along the shopping lanes, offering quick, reliable pizza and pasta. Prices around €10-15 per person. Ideal if you’re on a tight schedule or travelling with kids.
• Limoncello Tasting and Light Bites: Many shops offer free tastings of limoncello and other lemon-based liqueurs. Some also serve small plates of cheese, cured meats, and bread. A nice mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
• Gelato Stands on the Lungomare: Numerous gelato vendors line the waterfront. Expect to pay €3-5 for a cone. Quality varies; look for places making gelato on-site with natural colors (avoid neon-bright pistachio or overly smooth textures).
• Regional Specialties to Try: Scialatielli ai frutti di mare (fresh pasta with mixed seafood), sfusato amalfitano (a local lemon variety used in everything from salads to desserts), fresh anchovies, and mozzarella di bufala from nearby farms. Finish with a slice of delizia al limone, a lemon-soaked sponge cake.
• Food Safety: Tap water is safe to drink. Most restaurants are tourist-friendly and hygiene standards are high. Street food is less common here than in Naples but equally safe when available.

For a broader comparison of dining options along the coast, our Sorrento cruise port guide covers the food scene in a neighbouring town with similar offerings.

Shopping: What to Buy & Where to Go

Amalfi is an excellent shopping port if you’re after ceramics, local food products, and artisan crafts. It’s not a bargain destination – prices reflect the tourist economy – but the quality is generally high and you’ll find items you won’t see elsewhere.

• Ceramics and Pottery: Hand-painted plates, bowls, and tiles in bright yellow-and-blue lemon motifs are everywhere. Prices range from €10 for a small dish to €100+ for large decorative pieces. Check for “fatto a mano” (handmade) labels and buy from shops that pack items securely for travel. Many will ship internationally for a fee.
• Limoncello and Lemon Products: Local limoncello made from sfusato amalfitano lemons is a classic souvenir. Bottles cost €8-20 depending on size and quality. Also look for lemon-scented soaps, candles, marmalade, and olive oil infused with lemon. Some shops offer vacuum-sealed packaging for liquids to meet airline carry-on rules.
• Handmade Paper: Amalfi’s historic papermaking tradition lives on in a handful of shops selling journals, stationery, and art prints on thick, textured carta di Amalfi. Prices are higher than mass-produced paper but the quality is exceptional. The Museo della Carta’s shop is a reliable source.
• Clothing and Linen: Beachwear, linen shirts, sundresses, and embroidered blouses fill many boutiques. Quality and prices vary widely; inspect stitching and fabric before buying. Linen items typically cost €30-80.
• Food Products: Dried pasta, tinned anchovies, jarred capers, and local honey are all good buys if you have luggage space. Check customs rules for bringing food products into your home country.
• Shop Opening Hours: Most shops open around 9:30-10:00am and close for a midday break (1:00-4:00pm), reopening until 7:00-8:00pm. Sundays and public holidays may see reduced hours or closures.
• Payment: Cards accepted in most shops but cash preferred in smaller family-run places. No haggling expected.

Safety Tips & Avoiding Scams

The Amalfi Coast is generally safe for tourists, but crowded ports and tourist hotspots always attract opportunistic scams. Here’s what to watch for based on current reports:

• Unlicensed Tour Operators at the Port: As you disembark in Salerno or tender into Amalfi, you may be approached by individuals offering “exclusive” tours or private boat trips at steep discounts. These are often unlicensed and uninsured. Book only through your cruise line or verified operators with visible business licenses.
• Inflated Taxi Fares: Some taxi drivers quote fixed “tour prices” that are significantly higher than metered rates. Always insist on the meter or agree on a fare in writing before getting in. Use official taxi ranks at the port or pre-book a licensed transfer service.
• Fake “VIP” Boat Tours: Watch for individuals on the pier selling private boat tours to grottos or Capri. Verify credentials, check online reviews, and confirm cancellation policies before handing over cash. Legitimate operators have offices or booths, not just a guy with a clipboard.
• Credit Card Skimming: Rare but possible. Use ATMs inside banks or the cruise terminal rather than standalone machines in alleys. Pay with chip-and-PIN where possible and check your statements after travel.
• Pickpocketing: Crowded ferries, buses, and popular photo spots (like the cathedral steps) are prime locations. Keep bags zipped and in front of you, and don’t carry your passport unless necessary. A money belt or neck pouch is sensible.
• Restaurant Bill Padding: Check your bill carefully. Some tourist-focused restaurants add “servizio” (service charge) and “coperto” (cover charge) on top of menu prices. These are legal but should be clearly stated. If in doubt, ask before ordering.

Emergency Contacts

• EU-wide Emergency Number: 112 (police, medical, fire – English-speaking operators available)
• Police (State Police): 113
• Ambulance: 118
• Fire Brigade: 115
• Nearest Major Hospital: Ospedale Ruggi d’Aragona, Salerno – +39 089 671111
• Port Authority Emergency (Salerno): Check the terminal information desk on arrival for the direct line

Save your cruise ship’s emergency contact number before going ashore. If you miss the ship, call them immediately – they’ll have protocols for helping you rejoin at the next port.

Essential Gear for a Full Day Exploring Amalfi

It’s easy to clock up well over 10,000 steps exploring Amalfi’s cobbled streets, steep staircases, and historic lanes. Here’s what made our day comfortable and what we wish we’d brought from home:

For Your Feet

The cobblestones and hills here are no joke. Comfortable walking shoes for women or walking shoes for men saved us from the blisters we got in other Italian ports. The stepped alleys and uneven surfaces will destroy fashion sneakers or sandals. Bring blister prevention tape just in case – you can pick up bandages in town but they’re overpriced at tourist shops.

Your Daypack

You’ll need something for water, sunscreen, souvenirs, and layers as you move between sunny piazzas and cool cathedral interiors. An anti-theft backpack fits under airline seats on the way here and kept our stuff secure in crowded ferry queues and shopping lanes. The slash-proof fabric and hidden zippers gave us peace of mind on packed buses. A collapsible water bottle clips on the outside and saves you €3-5 every time you refill at public fountains instead of buying plastic bottles.

Staying Charged

Between photos, offline maps, messaging your ship, and checking ferry times, your phone will die by early afternoon. A portable charger with 20000mah capacity got us through 12-hour port days in Italy without stressing about battery. The one with built-in cables is even better – one less thing to pack and lose. Don’t forget a European power adapter to charge it overnight on the ship.

Staying Organized

With limited cabin space on most cruise ships, compression packing cubes let us find what we needed without destroying our suitcase every morning. Game-changer for multi-port cruises where you’re living out of a bag for a week. A hanging toiletry bag uses the vertical space in tiny ship bathrooms, and a cable organizer keeps all your chargers and adapters from becoming a tangled mess.

Weather Preparation

Amalfi’s weather changes fast, especially in spring and autumn. We got caught in a sudden shower in May and were soaked. A lightweight women’s rain jacket or men’s rain jacket packs down to almost nothing in your daypack but saves the day when the weather turns. If you’re visiting in the cooler months, a packable puffer jacket for women or men’s lightweight puffer works as a layer under your rain shell and doesn’t take up much room in your carry-on luggage.

Luggage and Security

Most cruise cabins are tiny. A hardside carry-on spinner fits in the cabin storage and the hard shell protects the ceramics and limoncello bottles you’ll buy. Use a portable luggage scale before you head to the airport to avoid overweight bag fees – those lemon-themed souvenirs add up fast. In the cabin, a portable door lock adds extra security since crew has access to all rooms.

Currency, ATMs & Money Matters

Italy uses the euro, and Amalfi (like most of the coast) is well set up for tourists but still has some cash-only corners.

• Local Currency: Euro (EUR). Rates change frequently – check just before travel
• ATMs: Available at the Salerno cruise terminal, in Salerno town centre, and in Amalfi’s main square. Machines typically offer instructions in English. Withdrawal fees vary by your home bank; notify your bank of travel dates to avoid card blocks.
• Card Acceptance: Widely accepted in restaurants, larger shops, and hotels. Smaller family-run businesses, market stalls, and some cafés prefer cash. Carry at least €50-100 in small notes for flexibility.
• Currency Exchange: Avoid airport or port exchange kiosks – rates are poor. Use ATMs for the best exchange rate. If you must exchange cash, banks in Salerno offer better rates than tourist-focused bureaux de change.
• Credit Card Fees: Check if your card charges foreign transaction fees (typically 2-3%). Travel-friendly cards often waive these fees and offer better exchange rates than cash.
• Bank Notification: Let your bank know you’re travelling to Italy to prevent fraud alerts that can block your card.
• Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated. Round up taxi fares or leave 5-10% in restaurants if service was good. A “coperto” (cover charge) of €1-3 per person is standard and not a tip.
• VAT and Tax-Free Shopping: VAT (IVA) is included in prices. Non-EU residents can reclaim VAT on purchases over €154.95 by requesting a tax-free form at participating shops and processing it at the airport before departure.

Weather by Month

Season	Months	Temperature Range	What to Expect
Spring	March – May	12-22°C (54-72°F)	Mild and increasingly sunny. March can still be cool and rainy; April and May are ideal with blooming flowers and fewer crowds. Pack layers and a light rain jacket. Sea temperature is cool for swimming.
Summer	June – August	22-30°C (72-86°F)	Hot, dry, and peak season. Expect intense sun, crowded attractions, and high hotel prices. July and August are the busiest months. Bring sun protection, light clothing, and plenty of water. Sea is warm for swimming.
Autumn	September – November	15-25°C (59-77°F)	September is warm and less crowded – often considered the best time to visit. October is pleasant but rain increases. November turns cooler and wetter. Pack a light jacket and umbrella from October onward. Sea remains swimmable through September.
Winter	December – February	8-15°C (46-59°F)	Mild but rainy. Many tourist businesses close or operate limited hours. Fewer cruise ships call in winter. If you do visit, expect quiet streets, lower prices, and a more local atmosphere. Bring warm layers and waterproofs. Not a beach season.

Common Questions & FAQ

Do I need to pre-book shore excursions or can I explore Amalfi independently?

You can absolutely explore independently if you’re comfortable managing your own timing and transport. Pre-booking a ferry or private transfer from Salerno to Amalfi is wise in peak season to avoid sold-out services. If you prefer the security of a guaranteed return to the ship, book through your cruise line – their excursions won’t leave you stranded. Independent travellers should allow at least 1.5-2 hours buffer before all-aboard time to account for ferry delays or traffic.

What happens if the weather cancels ferries from Salerno to Amalfi?

Rough seas can and do cancel ferry services, especially in spring and autumn. If ferries are cancelled, you have three options: take a bus or private taxi via the coastal road (longer but reliable), join a ship-organised coach excursion if still available, or spend your time exploring Salerno instead. Always have a backup plan and check weather forecasts the night before your port day. Your cruise line’s shore excursion desk will have real-time updates on sea conditions.

Can I visit both Amalfi and Positano in one port day?

Only if your ship offers at least 8-10 hours in port and you’re willing to rush. Ferries between Amalfi and Positano take 20-30 minutes, but you’ll need to factor in waiting time, queues, and the steep walk up and down Positano’s cliffside streets. Most cruise passengers find it more enjoyable to focus on one town and see it properly rather than ticking boxes in two places. If your heart is set on both, book a private driver or a ship excursion that includes both stops.

Is Amalfi suitable for passengers with mobility issues?

Amalfi town itself has significant accessibility challenges. The historic centre is built on steep terrain with narrow, cobbled lanes and many staircases. The cathedral requires climbing a long flight of steps. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are difficult to navigate outside the main waterfront promenade. If you have mobility concerns, consider staying in Salerno (which is flatter and more accessible) or booking a private accessible tour with a driver who can drop you at viewpoints without extensive walking.

Should I bring euros or can I use a credit card everywhere?

Bring both. Major restaurants, shops, and tour operators accept cards, but smaller family-run businesses, market stalls, and cafés often prefer cash. Having €50-100 in small notes (€5, €10, €20) will cover tips, quick snacks, and any cash-only situations. Avoid exchanging money at the port – use an ATM for better rates. Notify your bank before travel to prevent card blocks.

How much time do I need to see the main sights in Amalfi town?

A focused visit to the cathedral, cloister, and a stroll through the historic centre takes 2-3 hours. Add another hour for a sit-down lunch and you’re looking at a comfortable half-day. If you’re starting from Salerno, factor in 3-4 hours total for round-trip ferries, leaving you with around 4-5 hours in Amalfi itself. That’s enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed, but not enough to add side trips to Ravello or Positano unless you skip lunch and move fast.

Are there luggage storage facilities if I want to explore before or after my cruise?

The Salerno cruise terminal has limited luggage services; check with your cruise line or the terminal information desk on arrival for current options. Some hotels in Salerno and Amalfi offer paid luggage storage for day visitors. If you’re arriving early or staying late, contact your hotel or a dedicated luggage storage service in advance rather than assuming port facilities will be available.

What’s the best way to get to Naples or the airport from Amalfi?

If you’re extending your stay beyond the cruise, the easiest route is to return to Salerno by ferry or bus, then take a train from Salerno to Naples (approximately 45-60 minutes). From Naples Centrale station, you can catch a taxi, bus, or the Alibus shuttle to Capodichino Airport (about 20-30 minutes). Allow at least 3-4 hours total for the full journey to be safe. Private transfers can be arranged but are more expensive. For more on Naples connections, see our Naples cruise port guide.