Amalfi Coast
 

Has anyone been to the Amalfi Coast area during the winter (Jan.)? Is everything closed? What's it like?

Thanks for you help.

I wouldn't bother. One of the worst times of year there, and many shops/restaurants/hotels are closed up tight for renovation or have reduced winter schedules.

Hi j,

I second weadles.

Amalfi will be very busy during early January (1st to the 7th) with Northern Italians visiting during the holiday season. Virtually the shops will be open,however many of the hotels that cater for non-European visitors will be closed.Many restaurants will be open.The weather will be crisp but wonderful if the sun shines as it often does. For an area full of Lemon Groves it never gets really cold.You will be able to get a seat on a bus and the roads will be quieter and of course the scenery is fantastic at anytime.

I visited there once in Early January and once again agree with Gerardo. I found it very beautiful, and loved the slower pace and the fact that there were more Italians and Europeans than American tourists. During the "low season" you can have a different experience that you wouldn't find at other times.
It depends what you are looking for. To me, it doesn't matter at all if some "shops/restaurants/hotels" are on a winter schedule! I love the natural beauty of the place, and talking to/learning from the people who live there. I am not sure, but it is possible that in January, some of the Presepios (Christmas cribs) might still be on display in the churches. There is a magnificent one in Sorrento that I saw last year.

Different strokes I guess.

Gerardo, you are such a valuable member of these forums, because you are so generous with your knowledge of the area!

Not so fast!

I went to Sorrento the first week of February 2 years ago and it was one of my favorite trips to Italy.

No crowds. Locals are relaxed. Beautiful weather-sunny and crisp. Easy (er) driving along the coast without so many tour buses.

Practically had Pompeii to ourselves.

Capri was pretty dead but otherwise I did not notice stores and restaurants being closed.

And we paid almost half price for our hotel.

I'd go again in a heartbeat, any time of year.