Why Tourists May Want To Avoid Airbnbs In Italy's Amalfi Coast (And Where To Stay Instead)

The colorful seaside villages along the Amalfi Coast have satisfied the wanderlust and captured the imaginations of travelers for generations. With aquamarine waters, towering cliffs, hundreds of beaches, and tiny harbors hugging over 30 miles of meandering coastline in southern Italy, the Amalfi Coast is a bucket list destination everyone needs to experience at least once. And, while the Amalfi short-term rental market is booming, frequent travelers recommend thinking twice before booking accommodations via Airbnb for one reason.

If you stay at an Airbnb or private rental property, you'll likely have to heft your heavy bags along hundreds of stairs before reaching the property. After all, the Amalfi Coast's breathtaking views are courtesy of rugged 500-foot-tall cliffs. Yet, many unfortunate visitors don't realize the gravity of the situation (or the sheer quantity of steps) until they're carrying a suitcase at midday, desperately trying to find the entrance to an Airbnb that looks like almost every other door.

If you are traveling with older adults, have lots of luggage, or struggle with stairs, consider booking a hotel instead of an Airbnb for your Amalfi Coast adventure. While you can't avoid steps in towns like Positano or Ravello, hotels are often more accessible than Airbnbs and offer better assistance. "Most hotels have an access where people can get to by car, so a driver can drop you off, and there is always staff that can help with the luggage," explained a travel expert on TikTok. Also, consider staying in a hotel along the main road to avoid extra steps. It is, however, impossible to avoid stairs completely in this part of Italy, so keep that in mind when deciding where you'd like to go.

If you're deadset on staying in an Airbnb, be on the lookout for a few things. First, check "The Space" and "Other Things To Note" sections of the Airbnb listing, and look for any mention of how to access the place. For instance, one listing in Positano on Airbnb notes, "In order to reach the property there is a stairway of 406 steps uphill nestled in the uncontaminated Mediterranean Scrub." Don't be disheartened just yet! Next, check the reviews to see how the hosts deal with the incline. In this case, previous guests reported that the host's family helps guests carry luggage via a special cable lift. Finally, if you book the property and do require help, always message the host before you arrive to communicate your needs. 

While every place on the Amalfi Coast involves some sort of incline, Maiori is the best base destination in Italy's Amalfi Coast for tourists who hate stairs. Nestled in a valley between towering shrub-covered mountains, this underrated beach town was once a tiny fishing village. Due to its location, most hotels are in flat areas with easy access to the shops, restaurants, and the longest beach on the Amalfi Coast. Another bonus: Past travelers have remarked that Maiori is more affordable and feels more local than touristy towns like Capri, Positano, and other recognizable locations along the coast. Locals and tourists alike enjoy lazy evening walks along the seaside promenade. Plus, the fresh seafood is to die for, especially the ziti spezzati with monkfish and cod at Masaniello.

Another good choice for stair-averse travelers is Sorrento. Although technically part of the Sorrentine Peninsula, this busy city is an ideal jumping-off point for exploring Positano, Capri, and even the quaint village of Atrani. From Sorrento, catching a bus or ferry to the Amalfi Coast's top destination is easy, but keep in mind that you'll likely face delays during peak season. In addition, this coastal city is also a convenient base for visiting Pompeii via train (the journey takes a little over an hour and is straightforward). The bottom line: It's possible to enjoy the Amalfi Coast without totally destroying your knees, but choose your accommodations wisely.