Ultimate Itinerary for Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, nestled along Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, is a dream destination for travellers seeking stunning landscapes, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. If you’re reading this Amalfi Coast itinerary for 3, 4, 5 or 10 days, chances are you’re planning to explore the dreamiest coastline in Italy. Congratulations! Whether it’s your first or fifth visit, an Amalfi Coast trip is cause for celebration.

Dreams of swimming in the azure Tyrrhenian Sea; hiking along ancient coastal trails; sipping on Aperol spritzes at sunset; fine-dining on fresh seafood; and savouring lemon-infused everything (hello, limoncello!) are about to come to fruition. You’ll drool over the impossibly romantic views of Positano, live lavishly on the island of Capri, and stroll the luxurious villas of Ravello. Not to predict the future, or anything!

After exploring this incredible coastline in-depth, I’ve put together the best Amalfi Coast itinerary I could dream of ( attached Map below).

In addition to abundant natural and historic wonders, you’ll find that simply being present in daily life on the Amalfi Coast is magic, in and of itself. Pause to breathe it all in, pet the adorable Amalfi Coast cats, connect with locals, and savour the moment. An Amalfi Coast trip is a dream come true!

This guide will give you a useful and customisable Amalfi Coast vacation itinerary that includes it all: the best places to visit, where to stay, how to get around, what to see, the best things to do in the Amalfi Coast, where to eat, and more!

You can suit it to your needs whether you want to stay for 3, 4, 5 or even 10 days 😉

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About the Amalfi Coast region

First, let’s learn a little bit more about the Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana) and its significance as a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. Majestic landscapes and rich cultural history make the Amalfi Coast one of the world’s most desirable travel destinations!

The Amalfi Coast is a 50-kilometre (31-mile) stretch of luscious coastline in the Province of Salerno of Italy’s Campania region. It comprises 13 small villages and towns, from Positano to the west, to Vietri sul Mare to the east, and is filled with a myriad of hamlets tucked away in the mountain range.

Cradling the Amalfi Coast, the Lattari Mountains offer a stunning contrast to the bright Tyrrhenian Sea and the Gulf of Salerno below (both part of the Mediterranean Sea). This Amalfi Coast itinerary will guide you to colourful towns strung along dramatic cliff faces that plunge into the sea below.

The 13 towns along this coastline, including Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, Vietri sul Mare, Praiano, Salerno and Sorrento sit at either end, just outside of the Amalfi Coast.

Some Amalfi Coast towns are located right on the water, like Amalfi and Positano, and others are located higher up on the hills, like Ravello and Praiano.

Best time to visit Amalfi Coast

April and May are the best months to visit the Amalfi Coast since they offer warm and sunny weather as well as the chance to admire the blooms. The season opens in April and closes in October. Outside these periods, sun beds will be gone and many things will be closed. The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast without the crowds is May. However, the best period for beach holidays is June.

How to get to Amalfi Coast

The most common points of access for an Amalfi Coast trip itinerary are Naples, Sorrento, Salerno and Rome. The closest international airport to the Amalfi Coast is Naples International Airport, about an hour and a half away by car.

I travelled from London to Naples and then had a transfer from the airport provided by the hotel we stayed in Ravello. Often, travellers who arrive in Naples – either from northern Italy or from another country – use the large port city of Sorrento as their “home base” to explore the Amalfi Coast. Though Sorrento is not technically part of the Amalfi Coast, it is beautiful, affordable, and offers plenty of transportation options to Amalfi Coast towns.

How to get around Amalfi Coast

During the summer months, the best way to get around the Amalfi Coast is by boat (ferry, small boat tour, or private boat). The views are beautiful and you can avoid the traffic jams on Amalfi Drive.

From June through September, avoid driving the Amalfi Coast if possible, since traffic jams are frequent, parking is a nightmare, and rental car traffic is limited by the new alternating license plate system.

Private transfers on the Amalfi Coast are expensive, but they provide you with peace of mind. Hiring a private car is worth it! Click here to book your private driver. Alternatively renting a scooter is a great idea as long as you are a practiced driver. Here is a link to book your scooter.

Public transportation on Amalfi Coast is a great way to get around. It’s cheap, frequent, and (mostly) reliable. The bus systems (SITA and Mobility Amalfi Coast) offer local and regional routes running all season long. Just be aware, buses can be full and or late during summer.

Ferries offer the most amazing views of the Amalfi Coast. Just note that only Amalfi, Positano, Vietri sul Mare, Maiori, Cetara, and Minori have ferry services. During the off-season (usually November to early April), the ferries are not in service.

For both buses and ferries, you’ll need to purchase tickets ahead of time in a local bar, tabaccheria (tobacco shop), newsstand, or a ferry ticket office at a port.

Amalfi Coast Itinerary

This is one of the most popular ways to visit the Amalfi Coast. On these busy days, you will hit the highlights of Sorrento and the entire Amalfi Coast.

It’s a great itinerary for budgets of all sizes, pick and choose items that suit your budget as I will add options from Luxurious to budget-friendly options.

Here’s a quick overview of your dreamy Amalfi itinerary. Below, you’ll find the details of what to see, do, and eat in each place!

• Day 1: Arrival in Naples and Transfer to Sorrento
• Day 2: Sorrento Exploration and Sunset at Punta del Capo
• Day 3: Stroll the luxurious villas of Ravello and dine in a world-famous cafe in Minori
• Day 4: Explore the bustling town of Amalfi and the whimsical Atrani
• Day 5: Discover romantic Positano
• Day 6: Boat picnic, discover Fioro di Furore and Path of gods
• Day 7: Boat Excursion to Capri Island
• Day 8: Discovering the Ancient City of Pompeii
• Day 9: Discover lesser-known gems like Praiano and Vietri sul Mare
• Day 10: Wrap up, take a breather and get back

Where to stay is a big decision in planning your Amalfi Coast itinerary. There are pros and cons to each location.

Sorrento is easily connected to Rome, Naples, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast by public transportation. You can get to Sorrento by train and ferry from Naples, day-tripping to Capri is a breeze, and you have tons of public transportation and tour options for visiting the Amalfi Coast. However, you will be staying right outside of the Amalfi Coast.

It’s also a little easier to find cheaper accommodations in Sorrento, so if you are travelling on a budget, Sorrento is your best option (I wish I knew this before my first trip to the Amalfi coast).

To stay in an Amalfi Coast town like Positano or Amalfi, you’ll spend more time and money to get there. It can also be more challenging to day trip to Capri, depending on which Amalfi Coast town you choose. But overall, the vibe is amazing and the Amalfi Coast towns are gorgeous.

Staying in an Amalfi Coast town is best for those with at least 3 days in the area, those with more money to spend, or celebrating something special. Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Praiano are wonderful places to spend your honeymoon, a romantic getaway, a big life event, or to just simply relax and unwind.

We spent ten days on Amalfi Coast, 3 days in Ravello, 2 days in Amalfi, 2 days in Positano and 3 days in Capri. It was one of our most memorable experiences in Italy. We splurged but if we go there again, I would definitely stay either in Capri or Sorrento and go to other towns by fry or bus.

Day 1: Arrival in Naples and Transfer to Sorrento

Arrive at Naples International Airport, a convenient gateway to the Amalfi Coast.
Take a private transfer or use public transport to reach Sorrento, a picturesque coastal town.
Relax in Sorrento, stroll through the charming streets, and enjoy traditional Italian cuisine at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Sorrento Exploration and Sunset at Punta del Capo

Ah, a day of strolling about the streets of historic Sorrento on the beautiful Sorrento Coast.

EXPLORE SORRENTO

While in Sorrento, people watch in Piazza Tasso.
Visit the Cathedral of Saints Philip and James and take a seat in the Villa Comunale with the locals.
Wander through the lush gardens of Villa Comunale and marvel at the breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples with Mount Vesuvius in the background. It’s a blessing to be here!
In the evening, head to Punta del Capo to witness a mesmerising sunset over the Tyrrhenian Sea.
And finally, to wrap up your lovely day exploring, have a romantic dinner at L’Antica Trattoria, dinner here was by far one of the most decadent meals and fanciest dining experiences of my life!

Day 3: Stroll the luxurious villas of Ravello and dine in world-famous cafe in Minori

Journey to Ravello, a tranquil hilltop town renowned for its cultural heritage. There are plenty of things to do in Ravello, so this Amalfi Coast itinerary creates time for you to relish the elegance of Amalfi Coast’s most romantic town.

At each villa, you’ll pay a small entrance fee to admire the impossibly perfect gardens, striking architecture, and wondrous vistas of Amalfi’s rugged hills and sparkling blue seas.

Take some time to explore the little town square and the Duomo di Ravello before heading to the villas.
Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, which offer breathtaking views of the coastline and lush gardens.
Attend a concert at Villa Rufolo during the Ravello Festival (if it aligns with your travel dates).
Hike down to the town of Minori, and treat yourself to freshly made desserts in world-famous, Pasticceria Sal De Riso.

VILLA RUFOLO

Villa Rufolo is the home of Ravello Festival, a classical music festival that’s made Ravello world-famous.

Opening Hours: 9.00 – 20.00

Ticket Price: €7 / Reduced €5

Enjoy the magnificent architecture, fantastical flowerbeds, and the wondrous Italian stone pine trees “umbrella trees” that frame the bell towers below. For stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, climb the winding stairs of the villa museum!

Is this… heaven?

VILLA CIMBRONE

Villa Cimbrone‘s lavish gardens, fountains, statues, and sculptures are captivating… But the Terrazza dell’Infinito (Terrace of Infinity) is the pièce de résistance. Pass under the “doorway to the sun” to witness the seven marble busts welcoming you to the ultimate viewpoint of the entire Amalfi Coast!

Opening Hours: 9.00 – 19.00

Ticket Price: €7

This place is a hotel too and offers rooms as well as restaurant service.

WHERE TO EAT IN RAVELLO

• Osteria Ravello: Fresh pasta, limoncello and an extensive wine list, what more do you need? Try their Parmigiana di Melanzane all’Amalfitani.
• II Flauto di Pan: To wine and dine in the gardens of Villa Cimbrone says it all.
• Salvatore Ravello: This restaurant is well-known for its wonderful cuisine and spectacular sea view.

EXPLORE MINORI

Minori is full of tiny streets wrapped with the smell of orange blossoms, where you can have a nice relaxing and very romantic walk. When visitors come to Minori, they quickly notice that in the heart of the town, there is the Basilica of Santa Trofimena, a beautiful church built around 1200 in the Romanesque style. Over the years, the church had many restoration works, so nowadays, it has a neoclassical style and a Latin cross plan.

You can relax on the beach before retiring for the day, and try some local cuisine and desserts in Pasticceria Sal De Riso.

Day 4: Explore the bustling town of Amalfi and the whimsical Atrani

Welcome to the namesake of the Amalfi Coast, a very tiny town. Delight in local specialities such as limoncello, soft handmade paper, cuoppo fritto (paper cones filled with fried seafood), and of course, gelato!

If that sounds like a dream, that’s because it is.

Stroll along the narrow streets, visit the beautiful Chiostro del Paradiso, and shop for local crafts.
Explore its historic sites, such as the stunning Duomo di Amalfi(Amalfi Cathedral) and make a wish as you throw a coin into the Fontana di Sant’Andrea (Fountain of Saint Andrew).
Spend your afternoon strolling about Amalfi’s main street, Ruga Nova Mercatorum, while savouring the sights, scents, and flavours.
Sunbathe at Amalfi’s main beach, Spiaggia Grande (Marina Grande Beach).
Stroll through the smallest town called Atrani, 7 mins walk from Amalfi. There’s no major “to see” list here. Simply stroll along the black-sand beach, grab a slice of pizza and check out Piazza Umberto, the main square. Keep it simple!

EXPLORE AMALFI

Amalfi is a small town and other than sunbathing on its free beach, you will like to visit the Chiostro del Paradiso, and explore historic sites, such as the stunning Duomo di Amalfi and the Fontana di Sant’Andrea.

WHERE TO EAT IN AMALFI TOWN

• Saracen Tower: How do fresh fish, great service, and unreal views of the Tyrrhenian Sea sound?
• Cuoppo d’Amalfi: Grab this famous Amalfian street food for a snack between shopping. What’s not to love about succulent deep-fried seafood (and maybe some potatoes, too), with a generous squeeze of lemon on top?
• Taverna Degli Apostoli: Another gem serving up high-quality seafood and other local classics under the glowing lights of the cathedral.

EXPLORE ATRANI

Atrani is the tiniest town in all of Italy, 7 mins away from Amalfi by walk. There’s no major “to see” list here. Simply stroll along the black-sand beach, grab a slice of pizza at Mistral Pizzeria, and check out Piazza Umberto, the main square.

Day 5: Discover romantic Positano

No Amalfi Coast itinerary is complete without a stop in Positano. The picture-perfect Marina Grande Beach, bougainvillea-laced walls, and dazzling energy will leave you simply smitten!

Embark on a day trip to Positano, an iconic and colourful village cascading down the cliffside. Positano is coined the “vertical city” because of its marvellous stacked buildings that cling to the cliffside and peer out over the Tyrrhenian Sea.

While you’re here, focus less on “doing” and more on “being”. Positano gives you “main character energy,” so take all the pleasure in sunbathing, strolling, sitting, sipping, and staring at those stunning views!

Make an obligatory stop at Positano’s iconic church, Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta. Catch some Mediterranean sun at Arienzo or Marina Grande Beach, then peruse the upscale boutiques, and make your way to a series of restaurants for aperitif hour(s).

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO DO IN POSITANO

• Hire a vintage scooter or car and go for a Photoshoot either during sunrise or sunset
• Hire a boat and have a picnic, marvel at the Positano skyline from the boat, and explore the fiord (have pencilled in these activities for Day 6)

WHERE TO EAT IN POSITANO

• II Tridente: Hotel Poseidon’s enchanting vine-covered terrace restaurant is a must for soaking in those iconic Positano vistas and delighting in local seafood, fresh pasta, and more.
• Ristorante Bruno: An affordable street-side restaurant with a beautiful cliff view.
• Franco’s Bar: A stylish terrace bar, offering carefully crafted cocktails, aperitifs, and stunning sea views.

Day 6: Boat picnic, discover Fioro di Furore and Path of gods

Take a private boat to have a relaxing time while admiring the Positano skyline.
Hike “I Sentiero Degli Dei” (The Path of The Gods)

If there is one activity that I would 100% recommend doing, it would be to hire a private boat tour in Positano. If you have one day in Amalfi Coast, then this is the best and most memorable way to see Amalfi Coast.

We hired a private boat by walking down the shore and asking one of the several local stores. We got a private boat without a driver for €300+petrol fee(€21) for 3 hrs. Plenty of time to take photos, open up some bubbly, go up and down the coast of Positano, Amalfi, Atrani, and see Fioro di Furore.

After returning the boat, you should hike “I Sentiero Degli Dei” (The Path of The Gods). This is the most famous hiking trail on the Amalfi Coast! Hiking the ancient Path of The Gods is an intimate way to experience the landscapes, fresh air, and surrounding sea of the Amalfi Coast. The hike is about four miles long and reachable by car or bus to Nocelle (nearby Positano) or Bomberano (close to Amalfi).

If you’re keen on learning the rich history and significance of this trail, try a walking tour with a local! This Trail of the Gods Hike with Local Guide Saveria Fiore is highly recommended.

Click here to book your epic guided journey of the Path of The Gods.

Day 7: Visit Capri Island

Although most of the itinerary would suggest taking a boat trip excursion to Capri, I would suggest staying in Capri. In fact, stay in Capri instead of Positano and Amalfi and really enjoy the island. It’s home to one of the most famous towns in all of Italy, after all.

Get ready to shop, eat, and soak up that coveted Mediterranean sunshine on Capri; the playground of the rich and famous.

Hang at a beautiful beach like Marina Di Mulo, Gradola, or Torre Saracena
Take the funicular from Marina Grande up to Capri Town
Walk Via Krupp To Marina Piccola
Hire a boat and explore – the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azura), the Faraglioni rock formations, Arco Naturale (Natural rock arch), White Grotto (Grotta Bianaca), Green Grotto (Grotta Verde), Faro di Punta Carena (historic lighthouse)
Hire a scooter/vespa and visit the town of Anacapri to see Villa San Michele
The Monte Solaro Chair Lift is a must-do open-air chairlift in Anacapri
Stroll through the lovely Giardini di Augusto (Gardens of Augustus)
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming town of Capri and taste the local Limoncello
Visit Villa Lysis for elegant gardens and views
Relax while watching the most iconic sunset in Il Faro (Lido del Faro)

ISLAND OF CAPRI

To get to Capri, you can take the ferry, or book one of the boat tours! You can take a ferry from Positano to Capri for 23-26 euros. Use this link to easily book your ferry via the official website. And if you only want to visit Capri for a day below are some options for tours:

• Private Capri Island and Blue Grotto Day Tour from Naples or Sorrento
• Capri full-day tour
• Private Tour of Capri by Boat at Sunset with Aperitif
• Complete Private Guided Three-Hour Tour on the Capri Coast
• Capri Private Yacht Tour

Visit Giardini di Agusto to see an unparalleled 360-degree view of Capri Island and the sea. Visit the cafe to order some Lemon desserts, coffee and tea and enjoy the view of Mt. Vesuvius against the Capri landscape. Giardini di Augusto full ticket: € 1,50 , Opening hours : 9.00 – 17.00.

WHERE TO EAT IN CAPRI

• Ristorante Panorama – A beautiful deck overlooking the Napoli Sea and Vesuvius. The most popular items on the menu are the restaurant’s modern takes on classic soul food such as the wood-fired Neapolitan pizza.
• Pescheria Botteghe – The restaurant is small, and they carefully watch customers’ flow. Service is impeccable and the wine is top-notch. They use only the freshest ingredients. And as an added bonus, the kitchen is open for everybody to see how their food is being cooked.
• JKitchen Restaurant – The JKitchen allows guests to have a delicious meal anywhere they like – whether in their room, on the deck’s scenic terrace, or in one of the luxurious lounges.

Day 8: Discovering the Ancient City of Pompeii

At this point of the trip, we have mostly seen amazing views, beaches, cliffs and cute towns. Pompei is a nice change of pace as it is a huge historical site where you can spend a day completely thrown into a different era. I love history, but always thought Pompei would not actually be “aesthetically” appealing, being a bunch of ruins left from a volcano eruption over 2000 years ago.

At least that is what online pictures show. However, what you can’t understand from the internet, is the size of this place.

If you want to do something super epic, then a tour of Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius will be the cherry on top of your perfect Amalfi Coast trip! Roam the fascinating archaeological ruins of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with your expert guide, and learn about how the devastating eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in AD 79 preserved the village – and the paintings, artefacts, and thousands of villagers inside of it – in a blanket of ash and pumice. Then, hike up to the crater rim of the volcano. What a day!

Click here for a tour of Pompei and Mt.Vesuvius.

Trip to Pompeii, the Roman city famously preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
Walk through the well-preserved streets, visit the amphitheatre, and learn about ancient Roman life.

Day 9: Discover lesser-known gems

Discover lesser-known villages like Praiano, Ischia, and Vietri sul Mare.
Relish the quieter ambience, relax on less crowded beaches, and experience authentic Italian life.

Vietri sul Mare – If you were to look at an Amalfi Coast map, you’d find Vietri sul Mare on the eastern edge of the coastline. This destination is often overlooked, but I think it should be included in every Amalfi Coast itinerary.

Vietri is one of the most picturesque villages on the Amalfi Coast! Plus, this town is a historic producer of traditional Italian ceramics. Stay here a night, or spend a half-day seeing all the highlights. Don’t forget to snag a handmade ceramic souvenir (obviously!), and be sure to swim at one of the spectacular beaches!

Ischia – Less known and cheaper than Capri, but much larger and more historical, Ischia is a beautiful island famous for its natural thermal waters. Also reached by ferry, you can easily spend two days in Ischia.

Praiano – One of the very best ways to skip the crowds in Positano is by staying in the neighbouring town of Praiano instead. Just a fifteen-minute drive away, the quiet fishing village of Praiano is packed with sleepy charm and local flavour that can sometimes be hard to find along the well-beaten path of the Amalfi Coast.

Day 10: Wrap up, take a breather and get back

The Amalfi Coast itinerary offers a perfect blend of iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and unique experiences. From the breathtaking vistas of Positano to the cultural treasures of Ravello, and the ancient ruins of Pompeii, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime. As you bid adieu to this enchanting region, take with you the warmth of the locals, the flavours of Italian cuisine, and the indelible beauty of the Amalfi Coast. Happy travels!

Where to stay in Amalfi Coast

No matter where you choose to stay when you visit the Amalfi Coast, it will be the trip of a lifetime!

Generally, staying in smaller villages (Atrani, Praiano, Furore, Minori, Maiori, etc.) will come with a lower price tag.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for uber-luxury hotels, Positano is your place. II San Pietro di Positano is one of the nicest (and most expensive) hotels in all of Italy! Staying at Le Sirenuse would also be a dream.

As for having a “home base” versus sleeping in a different town each night, I think it’s better to move around. That way, you can get the full experience and discover each town more deeply. You’ll savour an epic sunset and a slow morning in each famous town; find your favourite restaurants; go swimming; eat all the gelato; and spend less time in transit, back and forth.

Below, I’m sharing the gems I discovered along the Amalfi Coast, plus some hotels in Sorrento, too. Bear in mind that in the main towns, the “budget” options are still going to be somewhat pricey.

Positano

Positano is usually only visited as a day trip, however, if you can swing it, spend at least one night! Positano is the most picturesque of all the Amalfi Coast towns.

• Le Sirenuse (ultra luxury – and a worthy splurge you won’t ever forget!)
• La Pigolina (mid-range)
• Venus Inn B&B (budget)

Amalfi

Basing yourself in Amalfi town is a great option because of its central location, ferry port, and a myriad of restaurants and hotels. After all, this is Amalfi Coast’s namesake!

• NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi (luxury)
• Hotel Villa Felice Relais (mid-range)
• MariLeo Amalfi (mid-range)
• Villa Adriana Amalfi (budget)
• Hotel Relais Villa Annalara (budget)

Atrani

Just a seven-minute walk from Amalfi town is whimsical Atrani, the smallest town in all of Italy. I spent a few days in Atrani and fell in love with this adorable town. Plus, you’re just a 10-minute walk to Amalfi!

• Palazzo Ferraioli (luxury)
• Atrani House-AMALFI (mid-range)
• Domus Claudia (mid-range)

Ravello

The romantic mountaintop village of Ravello is revered for its opulent and historic villas. Staying in Ravello is glamorous, but its mountaintop location doesn’t make for a practical “home base”

• Caruso, a Belmond Hotel (ultra-luxury)
• Gala Residence Villa Giovanna (mid-range)
• A Casa di Pissi (budget)

Sorrento

If you’re looking for the most bang for your buck, I recommend staying in Sorrento and taking day trips to the Amalfi Coast. Sorrento’s public transportation is easy, cheap, and plentiful. Whether you’re staying in Sorrento for your whole trip, or just for the night before you head to Naples, you’ll find a wide array of lodging to suit your needs!

• Grand Hotel Ambasciatori (luxury)
• Mistral Luxury Suites (mid-range)
• B&B Verù (budget)

Hope your travels be more than the best version you have imagined. Please share your experiences and questions in the comments below.

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