Scandy16

Hi all...I've been told that August is NOT the time to go to the Amalfi Coast (or anywhere in Italy for that matter). Too hot and humid, too crowded and hard to get around, etc. Also heard that last two weeks in August is the primary holiday time and all the locals are on the move, and many restaurants and stores could be closed.

We are planning a quick long (and romantic!) weekend getaway somewhere in Europe Aug 22-25. We were looking at the Amalfi Coast as a possibility -- until I heard all these things to consider otherwise! Should we do it? Or plan a trip to Italy at a better time of year?

Any insights would be appreciated....
Thanks!!
-jane

LarryJ

It would be very unlikely at this late date to get a hotel reservation for a decent hotel anyhere on the Amalfi Coast for August. I would recommend planning a trip for October. Prices are less, crowds are down to a manageable level and the weather is great. I have been there as late as the second week of November and loved it.

Larry J

Scandy16

Hi, Thanks for the reply...Believe it or not, we actually do have a reservation for 3 nights at the Santa Catarina! A friend knows the owner and he arranged with a slight discount (10%). So, we don't want to spend all this money if it's a bad time to go. What do you think??

Thanks!
-jane

italiansully

My wife and I spent the first 3 nights of our honeymoon at Santa Caterina and arrive on August 23rd (1999). It was hot but the hotel had a very nice salt water pool and lounging area right on the ocean..great frozen drinks too. It was VERY relaxing. We would explore Amalfi in the morning and them swim during the heat of the day. Be sure to reserve your lounging spot EARLY each morning! We had no problems with closed restaurants or shops, or crowds for that matter. There are gelato shops and italian ice vendors everywhere...a great way to keep cool while walking!

Steve_James

The Amalfi Coast is wonderful at any time of year - though you will certainly have crowds (and heat) to contend with in August.

This is a major problem if you want to drive (- which I would advise strongly against) - as the roads can be one big traffic jam. The best and quickest way to get along the coast in high season is ferry.

If you plan most of your sightseeing around places you can visit by ferry/hydrofoil (e.g. Positano, Capri, Ischia, Sorrento ...), or within easy reach (e.g Ravello) you can still have a great time even in August.

Few - if any - restaurants/shops will be closed! This is their peak season.

Hope this helps ...

Steve

Scandy16

Thanks, great advice! Really appreciate everyone's insight.

newfy

Rented a villa last August in Praino on the Amlfi coast,.although it was hot I cannot think of any reason not to visit in August.It is the most romantic place I have ever been, you will enjoy a breeze off the sea in the evening. We didn't do a lot of sight seeing, just relax enjoy the view, wine, and food,especially for a weekend. I wish I were going.

Weadles

Hi Scandy16,

I just got back (today) from the Amalfi Coast, where it was in the 90's. Sorrento,Positano, and Capri were pretty crowded, but we still had an excellent time. We stayed at hotels with pools and hung out in the water until it was time for another Bellini or gelato break. Not a bad way to spend a few glorious days, so if August is the only time you can go, do it!

GailLK

Would mid-September still be too hot for Amalfi Coast(Sorrento, Positano, Capri?)

ira

Hi Gail,

Mid to late September is, imnsho, just about the best time.

Weadles

I totally agree with Ira. August is the usual Italian vacation time, so September and October will be less crowded and less hot. However, if you can only go in August, take a deep breath, and do it. There's a wonderful breeze off the coast, the people are welcoming, and it's almost impossible to have a bad meal.

Good luck!~