AMV

Greetings. So many people recommend against driving the AC but is that because you have actually driven it yourself and it was a terrible experience? DH has driven all over the world including in Paris and Rome and other traffic intense cities as well as subtropical paths that are more pothole than pavement.. He loves it. And since we are going in early May I am wondering just how awful the traffic will be. Should I buy one of those sea sickness patches?

Jean

My husband loves the drive.

I can't speak to traffic conditions in early May, but even the curves and stunning scenery will slow you down. Unless you're very susceptible to motion sickness, I really doubt you'd need a scopolamine patch. For me, the side effects of the patch would be worse than anything the drive might cause.

PalenQ

Yup like Jean says it is a piece of cake - every time I have taken the Amalfi Coast buses they move at a snail's pace much of the way - so there is no real spine-tingling thrill - the road though is a cliff-hugger whose guard posts probably would not prevent a fatal tumble over the cliffs - but yes you go so slow usually that it is a waltz - hubby will feel great - go for it. But for utilatarian reasons folks sans cars will find the buses and in seasons boats between the towns very convenient - but if you have a car already go for it - point is no reason to have to have a car but if you have one great - parking can also be problematic in some busier resorts in busier times!

Caio caio!

CarolA

Parking in May was a nightmare. We met one couple at our hotel in Sorrento that got a late start to Amalfi. When they got there it then took over an hour to park. From that point on they either bussed or boated the coast.

Texastrips

My husband is with your husband - we (or actually) he have driven on our three trips there in the last five summers. We go in June and the traffic isn't too bad at all. Parking seems to be the real problem - make sure your hotel/wherever you are staying has parking. I agree the buses are terrible - way crowded. So no easy options there. We don't drive much while we are there because the towns are very close together and we like the ferries/water taxis between them because the water view is so amazing.
You will be fine.

AMV

Thank you all. This is very reassuring and helpful input. We are so looking forward to this trip - our first to this part of the world. Thanks!

basingstoke2

I've driven the coast in both directions at least a half dozen times in different times of the year and love it. It is not a difficult drive and with a sharp eye you can spot safe places to pull off the road and take pictures. I have yet to have a major problem parking along the way although I can see how that can be possible in the height of the season, but May is not - it will be spectacular. We like to stop for lunch along the way, usually in Amalfi where there is a nice sandwich type restaurant just in front of the church that is great for people watching. If driving a manual transmission, be prepared for lots of shifting.

nytraveler

We have been twice in May and driven the coast road several times. It is nothing like Paris or Rome. I find driving it fun - but I like driving little quick cars - and driving them fast. You can't do that on the Amalfi coast road. Your top speed will be about 35 mph - and that not for long. The conditions require that yuo drive slowly -= and be very alert since there are many blind driveways, curves that you have to slow down for and look at strategic mirros to see if a bus or truck is coming on your side of the road. Also, parking spaces are rare and very small.

If you are a confident driver and used to parking in tight spots it can be a lot of fun. But the driver can't see anything since he/she is 100% on the road. To enojoy it you would each have to drive it so the other can enjoy the views.

And the best views of the entire coast are from a ferry at sea.

AMV

This is wonderful feedback and much appreciated!

ekscrunchy

I'm late but I'll chime in that I drove all over the immediate area and to Sorrento last fall and had no problem, and I am not a confident driver back home. It was really fun to drive those curves.

There is a new big indoor parking lot in Amalfi, and another in Cetara, so those can alleviate some of the parking problems, at least in those two towns. Be prepared for traffic on weekends.

qwovadis

Did last May have done it a lot kind of like driving the Pacific coast highway around Big Sur. tigercarrentals.com for us
last an econo for 200 euro per week. Lots of switchbacks and the rare BIG tourist bus as long as you are up for that go for it.Best way to go for freedom flexibility.Driving early cuts down on crowds.

Happy Trails!