Maiori: The Place to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

Maiori might not have been at the top of your list for towns on the Amalfi coast. In fact, you might not even have heard of it. However, we chose to base ourselves here and it turned out to be one of the best location decisions we’ve ever made.

The town flooded back in 1954, washing away much of its historical centre, so it doesn’t boast the steep backdrops and traditional buildings you see in places like Positano and Amalfi. This might be why it isn’t thought of as quintessential Amalfi Coast. However, it makes up for it in many other ways, and we think it’s the best town to stay in on the Amalfi Coast.

Where is Maiori Amalfi Coast?

So where’s Maiori on the map? This town of just 5,000 people is nestled on the Amalfi Coast, close to famous spots like Positano and Ravello. Specifically, you’ll find it between Minori and Vietri sul Mare.

How to Get to Maiori?

Getting to Maiori isn’t a big puzzle; it’s quite straightforward, really. First things first, if you’re flying in, Naples is your nearest major airport. Once you land, you have a few options:

By Car/Taxi: The drive to Maiori is scenic and takes roughly an hour and a half. Just make sure you’re comfortable with winding coastal roads, and remember: Italians have a rather ‘spirited’ style of driving. Also, these options are the most expensive.

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By Bus: There are direct buses from Naples to Maiori, but they can be a bit slow. If you’re not in a rush and want to save some cash, this is a good option. Just be prepared for a ride full of twists and turns – the roads along the coast can be quite the roller coaster.

By Ferry: During the warmer months, you can catch a ferry from Naples to Amalfi and then hop on another ferry to Maiori. Alternatively, you can take a short bus ride from Amalfi to Maiori. It’s a tad longer but offers stunning views of the coastline.

For ferry schedules and prices, check out TravelMar. However, be prepared for erratic schedules, we saw boats leaving early with passengers running to get on board who were then left behind!

From Salerno: If you find yourself in Salerno, there are regular buses that head to Maiori. This route is shorter and takes about 30 minutes. You can also hop on a ferry directly to Maiori. This is slightly more expensive than the bus but will get you there faster.

No matter how you decide to get there, the journey offers beautiful glimpses of the coastline. So, get your camera ready and enjoy the ride.

Personally, we used a mixture of trains, buses and ferries and found ferries to be the easiest and most convenient option.

Why Choose to Stay in Maiori, Amalfi Coast

The Longest & Sandiest Beach on the Amalfi Coast

One of the top things Maiori can brag about is its beach. We’re talking about a stretch that’s 1km long! Compared to some of the tiny, often packed beaches in other towns like Positano, Maiori’s beach is like a breath of fresh air. You’ve got room to lay out, cafes where you can grab a drink, and if you’re in the mood, you can even try some water sports.

Fewer Crowds & More Relaxation

Speaking of breathing easy, Maiori isn’t as jam-packed as some of the famous towns, especially when tourist season hits its peak. The experience here? It’s laid-back. Instead of constantly rubbing shoulders with other tourists, you can strike up a chat with locals or find a quiet spot to just enjoy the moment. It’s like the best of both worlds: the beauty of the Amalfi Coast without the constant hustle and bustle.

Cheaper Than More Touristy Amalfi Coast Towns

Here’s a bit of good news for your wallet: Maiori won’t make it cry. Compared to some of the pricey tourist hotspots, staying in Maiori is a bit friendlier on the budget. Whether you’re looking at places to sleep, eat, or have fun, you’re likely to get more value for your money here.

Well-Stocked Supermarkets

If you’re the sort who likes to whip up your own meals whilst travelling, Maiori’s got your back. The supermarkets here aren’t just tiny corner shops – they’re proper stores stocked with everything you need. Local fruits, Italian cheeses, wines – it’s all there. So if you feel like a home-cooked meal, you’re all set. Also, many of the other towns are restricted to small stores with high prices.

Restaurants & Bars Aplenty

Not a chef? No problem. Maiori is dotted with restaurants and bars. As you’d expect from a small Italian town, you’ll find everything from tasty pizza places to those where you can get a proper Italian pasta dish; the town has a vibrant food scene.

Top tip: For something a little less Italian, but still incredible, try Cico’s RistoPub – we enjoyed some of the best burgers we’ve ever eaten here!

It’s Easy to Get Around the Amalfi Coast

If you’re using Maiori as your base camp, getting around the Amalfi Coast is a piece of cake. Buses, ferries, or even renting a car – pick what suits you. During peak season, the roads can get incredibly busy, with it taking hours to get from one town to the next. Instead, opt for the ferries; they’re cost and time-effective while allowing you to take in the beautiful coastline from the water.

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The Perfect Base to Explore or Relax & Escape the Crowds of the Amalfi Coast

Whether you’re itching to explore or just want to kick back with a book, Maiori is the place to be. There are plenty of nearby spots for day trips, but if all you want to do is relax, Maiori is perfect for that too. It’s like this little oasis away from the usual Amalfi Coast rush.

We loved Maiori because we were able to venture to the more popular towns for the morning or afternoon, but we knew we were always coming back to a quieter, slower-paced spot for some relaxing time on the beach.

Choose Maiori, You Won’t Regret It

In a nutshell, Maiori combines the best of the Amalfi Coast. It’s scenic, not overly crowded, and reasonably priced. So, if you’re looking to experience the Amalfi Coast without the usual crowds or price tags, give Maiori a shot.

Based on our experience of Mairoi and other Amalfi Coast towns, we highly recommend basing yourself here, it’s a gateway to all of the best things the Amalfi Coast has to offer while allowing you to enjoy a relaxing getaway.