Weather on the Amalfi Coast: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

The picturesque Amalfi Coast of Italy has long drawn travelers to its rocky shoreline, sheer cliffs, and sandy beaches. Charming pastel-colored towns like Positano, Praino, and Amalfi are home to small, interesting museums, seaside hotels and restaurants, and seafront promenades.

Weather is, of course, a big factor in the region's appeal, and for much of the year, the Amalfi Coast does not disappoint. Long, sunny days and an extended summer season mean plenty of months of great weather, starting in May and stretching into October.

Fall and winter on the Amalfi Coast can be windy, cold, and rainy, and its many resort towns go quiet for the season. Unless you're a fan of gray skies and empty beaches, these might not be the best seasons to visit the Amalfi Coast.

Fast Climate Facts

• Hottest Month: August, 85 F
• Coldest Months: January and February, 38 F
• Wettest Month: November, 6.5 inches
• Best Months for Swimming: July and August

When to Visit the Amalfi Coast

Spring and summer along the Amalfi Coast are gloriously warm and sunny, while sea breezes keep the temperatures from getting unbearably hot. Summer is peak tourist season here, which means that hotel prices will be at their highest, particularly in August. If you plan to visit in the summer, reserve your hotel room well in advance, and don't wait too long to reserve ferry passage if needed. Expect crowded roads, beaches, piazzas, and restaurants—this is the time of year that everyone wants to be in Amalfi.

If you opt to visit the Amalfi Coast in the fall or winter, you should be prepared for a much slower, quieter vibe than that of the high summer season. Days are shorter, many hotels and restaurants close for the winter, and beach establishments put their umbrellas and lounge chairs in storage until May. When planning your trip, be sure to check ferry schedules for the period you intend to travel, as most ferry companies have reduced fall/winter schedules. Also keep in mind that along the Amalfi Coast, most museums and attractions are too small to get lost in for hours—so if the weather is bad, plan on enjoying a good book in your hotel or a long lunch somewhere.

Spring on the Amalfi Coast

For lovers of crisp, sunny days, springtime might be the best season for visiting the Amalfi Coast. Flowers are blooming and the crowds—while starting to pick up—haven't nearly reached their summer peak. Beaches will be uncrowded, though seawater is still too cold (about 60 degrees F) for all but the hardiest swimmers. March sees only about five hours of sunshine a day, but by May, that stretches to eight hours. In March, high temperatures hover near 60 degrees F, and climb to 72 degrees F in May. The probability of rain is low these months, though some brief showers may occur.

What to pack: Lightweight pants and long-sleeved shirts are a safe bet. You might want to pack some T-shirts, a few pairs of tailored shorts, a swimsuit, and sun hat for warmer days. For chilly nights, a lightweight jacket and a medium-weight scarf should suffice. Pack a small umbrella for spring showers.

Average Temperatures and Rainfall by Month:

• March: High: 59 degrees F; Low: 42 degrees F; Rainfall: 3.5 inches
• April: High: 64 degrees F; Low: 46 degrees F; Rainfall: 3 inches
• May: High: 72 degrees F; Low: 53 degrees F; Rainfall: 2 inches

Summer on the Amalfi Coast

This is the season everyone wants to visit the Amalfi Coast. Temperatures reach well into the 80s, the days are long and sunny, and pleasant evenings bring cool breezes off the sea. Sea temperatures are still a bit brisk in June (the average is 75 degrees F), but warm up considerably in July and August, with average seas around 80 degrees F. Visitors flock to the Amalfi Coast in July and August to lounge on its beaches, and to swim, snorkel, and go boating in its clear waters. Keep in mind that in July and August, this paradise is crowded.

What to pack: Tailored shorts, lightweight slacks, lightweight long- and short-sleeve shirts, a swimsuit, and a sun hat. Men should pack collared shirts for dinners out. Women should pack sundresses, lightweight skirts, and blouses. For the occasional cool evening, bring a lightweight jacket or scarf.

Average Temperatures and Rainfall by Month:

• June: High: 79 degrees F; Low: 60 degrees F; Rainfall: 1 inch
• July: High: 84 degrees F; Low: 64 degrees F; Rainfall: 1 inch
• August: High: 85 degrees F; Low: 64 degrees F; Rainfall: 1.5 inches

Fall on the Amalfi Coast

If you visit the Amalfi Coast in the fall, you'll have a very different vacation depending on the month you choose. Early September sees continuing summer-like weather, though by mid-month temperatures start to dip into the 70s. This is arguably the prime month to visit: the weather is warm, the seas are still swimmable, and the accommodation prices are much lower compared to July and August. October is cool, with the occasional warm, sunny day. November, on the other hand, gets downright chilly, and also happens to be the area's rainiest month.

What to pack: Lightweight slacks, lightweight long- and short-sleeve shirts, tailored shorts, a swimsuit, and a sun hat. Men should pack collared shirts for dinners out. If you're visiting early in the fall, a lightweight jacket and scarf will probably suffice. If you're visiting in October or November, pack a mid-weight, waterproof jacket; a scarf; and an umbrella.

Average Temperatures and Rainfall by Month:

• September: High: 80 degrees F; Low: 59 degrees F; Rainfall: 3 inches
• October: High: 71 degrees F; Low: 52 degrees F; Rainfall: 5 inches
• November: High: 62 degrees F; Low: 45 degrees F; Rainfall: 6.5 inches

Winter on the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast in winter is the place for visitors who want to get away from it all and spend a decidedly quiet, low-key vacation. From October or November onward, many restaurants and hotels will close for the season, reopening in April or May. Hotels that remain open will offer low rates during this period—except for Christmas and New Year's—and restaurants are more likely to welcome you like an old friend. Average high temperatures are in the 50s, with lows reaching down to the low 40s and high 30s. With shorter days, cold temperatures, and occasional rain, this is a good season for winter walks, reading books, and exploring little churches and museums.

What to pack: While you might catch a break and hit some mild winter weather, it's best to be prepared for everything. A medium-weight coat (or one with a removable warm liner) is in order, as is a hat and scarf. Jeans, slacks, long-sleeve shirts, and sweaters will protect you from the elements, and it's always wise to pack and dress in layers. Bring an umbrella and a waterproof jacket.

Average Temperatures and Rainfall by Month:

• December: High: 56 degrees F; Low: 41 degrees F; Rainfall: 5 inches
• January: High: 54 degrees F; Low: 38 degrees F; Rainfall: 4 inches
• February: High: 55 degrees F; Low: 39 degrees F; Rainfall: 4 inches