When you picture coastlines and seaside towns, the first thing that comes to mind is summer. Italy’s Amalfi Coast is no different; the summer months tend to be the busiest time of the year in this stunning seaside town.
However, did you know that the best time to visit Amalfi Coast is during fall, not summer? Why is that? What makes fall the best time to visit Amalfi Coast?
Why Visit Amalfi Coast in Fall
If you’re visiting a seaside location like Amalfi Coast, wouldn’t it make more sense to visit during the summertime? After all, it’s when the weather is warm, and taking a dip in the water seems more appealing.
Amalfi Coast in Summer
While this is often the case, Amalfi Coast is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, with over 5 million visitors annually. Because of this, summertime in this majestic seaside location can be hectic, not to mention crowded.
Additionally, because it gets so crowded in summer, you can expect prices for accommodations to skyrocket as well.
After all, it’s not just international tourists who love going to this stunning southern Italian coastline; Italians love going to this local spot as well.
Amalfi Coast in Spring
Springtime can also be an excellent time to visit, but this often marks the beginning of the tourist season, which lasts until the end of summer in August. So, you will still have to deal with crowds during this time.
Moreover, Amalfi Coast tends to experience a lot of rain during spring, something that can put a damper on your plans to enjoy what this spot has to offer.
Amalfi Coast in Winter
Because this region enjoys a Mediterranean climate, Amalfi Coast enjoys mild winters, unlike the northern areas of Europe. However, it can still be too cold for those who want to enjoy this stretch of coastline’s amazing waters.
Amalfi Coast in Fall
Overall, fall is the best time to visit Amalfi Coast because you can expect fewer people during this time. The temperature is also just right – not too warm or too cold.
Moreover, because most vacationers have already gone home, you can expect lower prices for accommodations and fares as well.
Although the period between the end of August to October means fewer crowds, this doesn’t mean that you can’t have a good time. In fact, there are still plenty of activities to do during fall that will make your visit worthwhile.
Other Reasons to Visit Amalfi Coast in Fall
As mentioned, Amalfi Coast still has a lot in store for those who choose to visit this fantastic Italian location.
With that said, check out these top activities to do in Amalfi Coast when you visit in the fall. Make sure to put these on your bucket list, as you wouldn’t want to miss out on any of them.
- L’Incendio di Torello
If you love seeing fireworks light up the night sky, then you wouldn’t want to miss this stunning fireworks display in Torello, a small town near Ravello and Minori.
The L’Incendio di Torello marks the end of the Madonna Addolorata festival and takes place every third Sunday in September. During this time, the night sky in Amalfi Coast is lit up with the gorgeous fireworks display that will strike awe in anyone who sees it.
Additionally, all of the fireworks are carefully arranged in the town. Lighting them together with the torches makes it appear like the town is burning. It’s certainly a sight you shouldn’t miss.
- San Matteo Festival
Another reason fall is the best time to visit Amalfi Coast is to enjoy the San Matteo Festival in Salerno. Every year, everyone in the region goes out to celebrate and honor their patron saint, San Matteo.
While the celebration officially begins with a Holy Mass in August, the processions and delicacies prepared for the festival don’t happen until September 21st. The Festival of San Matteo is undoubtedly one of the region’s most beloved and awaited celebrations.
Participating in this festival will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the region’s culture and atmosphere, especially once you get a taste of their delicacy, the Meveza ‘Mbttunata. This regional dish is prepared traditionally using mint, parsley, and chili, then cooked in vinegar and oil.
- Festa della Vendemmia and Il Mosto Diventa Vino
Another must-visit on your bucket list is the town of Tramonti, especially if you appreciate a glass of fine wine. This town is situated in the mountains above the city of Maiori. It is known for producing some of the best wines in the region.
They love wine so much that they have two festivals dedicated to fine wines – the wine harvest, “Vendemmia,” and wine production, or “Il Mosto Diventa Vino.” The former usually occurs from September 24th to 25th, while the latter happens later on in November, from the 26th to the 27th.
- Festa della Castagna
If you’re in Amalfi Coast in October, then you should definitely head to Scala, one of the villages in the area, to celebrate the Festa della Castagna.
The Festa della Castagna or chestnut festival is an annual fall festival in Scala that celebrates the harvesting of the chestnut trees surrounding the quaint village. They do this over the weekend, but the actual date varies, depending on the harvest time.
Not only will you see the fantastic chestnut trees, but you’ll also get to try several local culinary specialties that use the locally harvested chestnuts as an ingredient. Aside from these, you can also participate in several traditional activities like games, donkey races, and more.
Final Thoughts
Amalfi Coast is definitely one place you should visit if you’re in the mood for stunning oceanic views and fun activities. However, if you’re not the type to appreciate crowds, the best time to visit Amalfi Coast is definite in the fall.
By then, the madness of summer crowds is gone, and you can enjoy what the coastline has to offer.