The Amalfi Coast is arguably the most visually dramatic wedding destination in Europe, but it is also the most logistically hostile. Unlike the rolling hills of Tuscany, this region is defined by extreme verticality—cliffs plunging directly into the Tyrrhenian Sea—which dictates every aspect of event planning.
For couples considering a region for their Italian wedding, the Amalfi Coast requires a budget allocation heavily skewed toward transport and “venue exclusivity fees.” Whether you choose Positano, Amalfi, or the hilltop sanctuary of Ravello, the primary challenge is not finding a view, but moving your guests to it.
The Logistics of Verticality
The fundamental constraint of the Amalfi Coast is the lack of flat space.
- The “Split-Level” Event: Most venues are terraced. It is common to have the ceremony on an upper terrace, the aperitif on a middle level, and the dinner on a lower garden. This requires guests to navigate significant staircases.
- Accessibility Warning: If you have elderly guests or those with mobility issues, you must vet venues for elevators. Many historic hotels in Positano have 100+ steps from the street to the reception area.
Transport: The SS163 Road Problem
The coastline is connected by a single, narrow road (the SS163).
- Vehicle Size Limits: Large 50-seater buses are legally prohibited from entering the center of Positano and other towns. You must transport guests using fleets of smaller Mercedes Sprinter vans (max 19 seats). This triples the transport budget compared to other regions.
- Travel Time: The distance from Naples Airport (NAP) to Positano is only 60km, but the drive takes 90–120 minutes due to traffic.
Ravello vs. Positano: Choosing Your Hub
- Positano: The “Jewel” of the coast. Ideally suited for elopements or small weddings (under 60 guests). Venues here are often boutique hotels with strict noise curfews (23:30) due to the town’s density.
- Ravello: Located 350 meters above sea level, it offers the famous “Infinity Terrace” views. It is more pedestrian-friendly and hosts the region’s few venues capable of holding larger groups (100+ guests) with later music permissions, as they are more isolated from residential areas.
Technical Nuances: Costs and Curfews
Venue Rental Fees
The cost of “Sea View” is a premium. A luxury villa or hotel terrace in Amalfi often charges a rental fee of €10,000–€25,000 plus the per-head food cost. This is significantly higher than similar capacity venues in Puglia.
The Music Limit
Outdoor music is tightly regulated. In Positano, most outdoor amplification must cease by midnight. If you want a late-night party, you must move indoors to a soundproofed club area, which many smaller hotels do not possess.
FAQ: Amalfi Coast Weddings
When is the best time to marry here?
Avoid August. It is humid, overcrowded, and expensive. The best months are late May, June, and September. October offers stable weather and lower hotel rates.
Can we have a civil ceremony with a view?
Yes. The Town Hall of Positano offers a terrace overlooking the sea for civil rites. Ravello has the Principessa di Piemonte gardens, which are designated “Casa Comunale” for legal outdoor ceremonies.
How do we handle the heat?
Ceremonies should never start before 17:00 in summer. The sun is intense, and shade on the terraces is limited.