Christmas along the Amalfi Coast is more than postcard views and twinkling lights. Instead, it reveals a season rooted in ritual, family tradition and community spirit. If you visit in December, you will experience powerful religious processions and centuries-old customs that locals proudly preserve.
Moreover, this period offers a rare opportunity to witness truly authentic celebrations. From open-air markets to solemn faith-based events, each town showcases a deep sense of cultural pride. For this reason, we strongly recommend booking a private driver. Coastal roads become congested during the holidays, and public transport remains limited. As a result, travelling with a driver ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey between destinations.
Below is your guide to the most meaningful feasts and processions to experience this Christmas.
Feast of St. Andrew the Apostle — Amalfi (30 November)
Few events capture the essence of Amalfi quite like the annual Feast of St. Andrew, the town’s patron saint. Although locals celebrate this feast twice a year, the November edition feels especially intimate and emotive.
During the procession, residents carry a silver bust of St. Andrew from the cathedral and descend the famously steep steps with reverence and joy. Meanwhile, church bells echo through the streets as incense rises and local bands lead the way. Crowds gather in quiet devotion, creating an atmosphere that feels both powerful and deeply personal.
As the procession returns to Piazza Duomo, fireworks illuminate the sea in a breathtaking display that lights up the coastline. Ultimately, this is not a performance for tourists — it is a sacred tradition cherished by generations of Amalfitani families.
How to Get There
- Best base: Amalfi or Atrani
- From Sorrento or Positano: private driver strongly recommended; buses are limited and the coast road is extremely congested
- Wear comfortable shoes — the cathedral steps are steep and the piazza fills quickly
Christmas & New Year Festivities — Amalfi & Salerno (8 December – 1 January)
Throughout December, Amalfi and nearby Salerno come alive with a full program of markets, nativity scenes, concerts, children’s events, and New Year celebrations.
Our clients are always amazed at these festivities during the Christmas season in the region:
- Christmas Markets: Local ceramics, limoncello, artisanal chocolates, handmade presepe figurines
- Tree Lighting Ceremonies: A magical moment in both Amalfi’s Piazza Duomo and Salerno’s Lungomare
- Nativity Scenes: Some traditional, others modern — each parish creates its own
- New Year’s Eve in Amalfi: Live music in the piazza followed by fireworks over the harbour
These weeks blend holiday joy with the unmistakable character of the coast — lemon-scented streets, medieval alleys glowing with lights, and vendors offering local sweets like struffoli, zeppole, and roccocò.
How to Get There
- Stay: Amalfi, Minori, or Ravello
- Transport: A private driver is the easiest way to move between towns after dark
- Tip: Salerno’s “Luci d’Artista” light installation is a must — allow time to stroll the park and seaside promenade
Immaculate Conception & Bonfire Procession — Vietri sul Mare (7 December)
In Vietri sul Mare, the gateway town to the Amalfi Coast, the eve of the Immaculate Conception is marked by a powerful local ritual: the lighting of large bonfires (“treppiedi”).
As night falls, residents light towering bonfires throughout the historic centre. People gather around them to warm up, chat, and share seasonal treats — often chestnuts, local wine, or small pastries. Later, a candlelit procession winds through the narrow streets, creating an atmospheric blend of firelight and faith.
This is a tradition rooted in purification and community, long before Christmas markets became the norm. Few tourists attend, making it one of the most authentic December experiences on the coast.
How to Get There
- Best route: Private driver from Amalfi, Salerno, or Positano
- Tip: Wear layers — evenings near the sea can be cold
- Note: Parking is extremely limited and roads close ahead of the procession
Advent & Christmas Events — Maiori (15 December – 19 January)
Maiori offers one of the longest-running holiday programmes on the coast, with events stretching well into January.
For the faithful, there is no shortage of daily and weekly religious masses. The kids will also love the Christmas workshops, local food stalls and highly intricate artisanal nativity displays which reinforce the true spirit of Christmas.
Maiori is quieter and more residential than Amalfi or Positano. This means fewer crowds and more opportunities to experience local life — perfect for travellers wanting to step away from the tourist track.
How to Get There
- Access: Easiest from Amalfi by private car (10–15 minutes)
- Tip: Combine with nearby Minori for a full evening of lights and pastries (Minori is famous for its pastry shops)
Final Tips for Experiencing Christmas on the Amalfi Coast
- Book a private driver for all evening events — coastal buses run infrequently in winter and roads can be dark and winding.
- Dress warmly — December nights are chilly by the sea.
- Try the seasonal sweets — susamielli, struffoli, sfogliatelle, and Amalfi Coast citrus desserts.
- Arrive early for processions — piazzas and church steps fill quickly.
- Immerse yourself — even small towns offer rich traditions and warm welcomes.
If you wish to visit the Amalfi Coast during the festive season, or any season for the matter, why not let our regional experts design you the trip of a lifetime? We know all the local secrets to ensure you experience this season like a local, with a Christmas grounded in faith and tradition. Get in touch today about your next vacation.
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Francesca Capone
Francesca, originally from Italy’s Amalfi Coast and now based in Rome, has over 12 years in the travel industry. Her journeys across the Americas, Africa, Europe, Asia, and India have deepened her love for diverse landscapes and cultures, inspiring her to craft enriching travel experiences for her clients.
Francesca combines her in-depth knowledge of geography, history, and culture to create personalized itineraries. Fluent in both French and English, she connects seamlessly with local vendors, ensuring her clients enjoy authentic experiences. Francesca’s appreciation for nature and wildlife allows her to incorporate these aspects into her clients’ trips.
We were perfectly assisted throughout the booking process. Francesca was helpful, precise and always courteous even when we asked a lot of annoying questions. Thank you!
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing an exceptional trip to France, meticulously organized by Francesca. Every detail was thoughtfully curated, from charming accommodations to immersive local experiences. Their expertise transformed the journey into a seamless and unforgettable adventure. Highly recommended for those seeking a tailored and enriching travel experience.