The best Amalfi Coast itinerary

Picture yourself stretched out on a picture-perfect beach, sipping limoncello with the azure Mediterranean Sea spread before you. How about strolling epic coastal paths speckled by candy-hued eateries serving fresh seafood and crisp local wine? Imagine boarding a boat to transfer to your new favorite Italian town as the sun shines down. All this awaits on Italy’s enchanting Amalfi Coast, as revealed in the 4-day Amalfi Coast itinerary shared right below.

4 days in Amalfi Coast overview

This short trip focuses on three of the Amalfi Coast’s best-known towns. You’ll spend the first two days based in Positano, then move on to Amalfi and finish in Ravello. It’s a manageable pace, with time to explore each town on foot, take in the coastal views, and enjoy local food without needing to rush. Travel between towns is easy by bus, boat, or car, so you won’t lose much time in transit.

• Day 1: Positano
• Day 2: Positano
• Day 3: Amalfi Town
• Day 4: Ravello

Is 4 days enough for the Amalfi Coast?

Full disclosure: the Amalfi Coast is one of my favorite areas of Italy, first visited on a day trip from Naples—an intoxicating city that’s loaded with unusual things to do and soon had me under its spell.

That first experience inspired a second trip to the Amalfi Coast, during which I devoted a week to the region. Even then, I didn’t get to see and do everything on my wish list.

That said, the 4-day Amalfi Coast itinerary detailed below has been curated to condense the best of the region into a shorter timeframe through covering pretty Positano, Amalfi Town, and Ravello, plus the chance to hike the Path of the Gods. 

So, in short, with careful planning, 4 days can be enough time to enjoy the Amalfi Coast, which happens to be among the most beautiful places in Italy. It's a great way to see this area and fit a few days somewhere else in Italy. Here’s how your Italy trip might look, based on your travel time:

*Indicative price per person for a fully arranged tailor-made trip.

Day 1: Arrive in Positano

With a dramatic cliffside setting and pastel-colored buildings that appear to be cascading towards the sea, Positano is oft-hailed the jewel of the Amalfi Coast and a fantastic way to kick off this Italy itinerary.

If you’re traveling from Naples, take a train to Sorrento, followed by a bus, taxi, or private transfer to Positano. This will take around 1.5–2 hours.

Things to do in Positano

After arriving and checking into your accommodation, head out to start exploring this regional treasure. 

Loaded with boutiques, galleries, and cafes, Via dei Mulini—the town’s main pedestrian street—is a great place to start. 

Into historic architecture? Head to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, which is famed for its iconic dome of majolica tiles and Byzantine Black Madonna.

Come the afternoon, take your pick from soaking up the busier vibe of Spiaggia Grande—Positano’s main beach—or walking to the quieter Fornillo Beach.

That evening, enjoy a romantic dinner, preferably at a cliff-top restaurant that’s well-sited for sublime sunset views.

Where to stay in Positano

Positano is blessed with a bounty of beautiful places to stay for all budgets, but you’ll want to book early if you’re planning to visit in the summer high season.

• Central Positano: Best for first-time visitors who want to be near the beach, shops, and restaurants. Expect lots of steps but unbeatable views and easy access to everything.
• Upper Positano: Quieter and often more affordable, with hillside hotels and villas that overlook the sea. It’s ideal if you want space, panoramic views, and don’t mind a bit of walking.

Day 2: The Path of the Gods

On day two, devote time to experiencing the wonders of the Path of the Gods—a hiking route that sure lives up to its lofty name.

To access the trailhead, take a bus from Positano to Nocelle. Located above Positano, this little village is the most convenient starting point for the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) hike. 

After arriving (the bus typically takes around 30 minutes), it’s time to set off along a moderately challenging route that offers panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast. Think dramatic cliffs, verdant valleys, and glimpses of the shimmering sea. 

After your hike, enjoy lunch in Nocelle before returning to Positano. Ristorante Santa Croce, for example, serves excellent local food and wonderful coastal views.

Day 3: Amalfi Town

Located approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) east of Positano, Amalfi Town’s beauty awaits on day 3 of this 4-day Amalfi Coast itinerary.

One of the most historically significant—and picturesque—towns on the Amalfi Coast, it offers visitors a satisfying mix of cultural heritage, architectural beauty, and coastal magic.

In exciting news, the best way to get from Positano to Amalfi Town is by ferry—a fabulous 30-minute voyage that serves spectacular scenery. 

Note that the ferry only operates seasonally from late spring to early autumn. If you’re traveling outside the ferry’s operating period, you can take an hour-long bus ride

Things to do in Amalfi Town

After checking into your accommodation, start exploring from Piazza Duomo, which sits in the heart of Amalfi Town.

Into history? Be sure to visit the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi)—a wonderful Romanesque structure with a striking staircase and ornate interior.

While wandering the charming little streets, keep an eye out for artisan shops selling local products, most notably handmade paper from the historic Amatruda Paper Mill.

Come dusk, head to Amalfi Marina to watch fishing boats return as the sun sets, ahead of dining on freshly caught seafood in a local taverna.

Where to stay in Amalfi Town

• Central Amalfi: The most convenient area for first-time visitors, just steps from the cathedral and main square. Ideal if you want easy access to restaurants, shops, and the ferry port.
• Seafront Area: Great for travelers who want sea views and quick beach access. You’ll find a mix of mid-range and upscale hotels lining the waterfront promenade.
• Clifftop Area (toward Atrani or beyond): Quieter and more scenic, perfect if you prefer a peaceful stay with panoramic views. It’s a short walk or drive down to Amalfi’s center.

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Day 4: Travel to Ravelllo

Perched high above the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is a splendid place to conclude this 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary.

Take a 20-minute bus or hop in a taxi from Amalfi Town to Ravello—a ride that delivers marvelous views of terraced vineyards and lemon groves.

Things to do in Ravello

On arrival, make your first sightseeing stop at Villa Rufolo—a 13th-century estate that’s known for its magnificent gardens and coastal views.

A hands-down highlight of Ravello. The terraces here inspired Wagner’s opera Parsifal.

Villa Cimbrone is another must-visit, with its aptly named Infinity Terrace offering one of the most breathtaking panoramas in all of Italy, which is really saying something. 

Finally, to dine in memorably fancy style before wrapping up your trip, head to the Michelin-starred Rossellinis. Or, for something more casual, Ravello boasts a number of quality family-run trattorias.

Where to stay in Ravello

• Al Borgo Torello area: About a mile (2 km) from Ravello’s center, this peaceful area is perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Expect lush gardens, sea views, and a pleasant 20-minute walk to Piazza Duomo.
• Central Ravello (Piazza Duomo): Ideal for being in the heart of town, close to restaurants, shops, and historic villas. Elegant stays like Hotel Villa Fraulo combine charm with convenience.
• Clifftop Ravello: Home to luxury hotels like the Belmond Hotel Caruso, this area is all about sweeping coastal views, historic architecture, and world-class amenities.

Want a stress-free trip? Our Italy travel experts make itineraries that match your pace.