Amalfi Coast itineraries: how to spend your trip in the Amalfi Coast

Picture yourself on the sun-drenched cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, sipping limoncello as the azure Mediterranean stretches out before you. This gem of Italy promises a dreamlike escape. Here are our tips for planning your trip, as well as two unique Amalfi coast itineraries meticulously created by our local travel experts

Why Visit the Amalfi Coast?

The Amalfi Coast enchants with its stunning coastal scenery, charming village, rich historic sites, and scenic hiking trails. Not to mention it is well regarded as a culinary paradise featuring fresh seafood and limoncello. 

Amidst lemon groves and artisanal crafts, the region's quaint beaches, local festivals, and laid-back atmosphere create an enchanting destination that beckons travellers worldwide.

Amalfi, Italy © proslgn/Shutterstock

Amalfi, Italy © proslgn/Shutterstock

Best places to see in the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, perched along the rugged shores of southern Italy, boasts an array of remarkable towns, each with its own unique blend of beauty and charm. When creating your Amalfi Coast itinerary, you will want to include as many of these coastal gems as possible.

Amalfi

The namesake town of the coast, Amalfi boasts a rich history, a magnificent cathedral, and a vibrant town centre. Stroll through its narrow streets and enjoy the local shops and cafes. Any Amalfi Coast itinerary is not complete without a visit to Amalfi.

Ravello

Perched high above the coastline, Ravello offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Visit the Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone gardens for their stunning beauty.

Positano

Known for its pastel-coloured houses tumbling down the cliffs, Positano is a romantic and photogenic destination. Relax on its beautiful beaches and explore its boutique shops.

Sorrento

Although technically not on the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento serves as a gateway to the region. It's a lovely town with its own charm, offering a variety of amenities and easy access to a nearby attraction

Pompeii

If you're interested in history, a visit to the ancient ruins of Pompeii, which can be reached from the Amalfi Coast, is a must. Explore the remarkably preserved city destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.

Sorrento in Italy © Shutterstock

Sorrento © Shutterstock

How to get there

Getting to the Amalfi Coast can be done by air, train, or road, depending on your preferences and starting location:

By air

If you're travelling internationally, you can fly into Naples International Airport (NAP), which is the closest major airport to the Amalfi Coast. From there, you can continue your journey to the coast by train, bus, or car.

By train

The nearest train station to the Amalfi Coast is Salerno. You can take a train to Salerno from major Italian cities like Naples, Rome, or Florence. Once in Salerno, you can continue your journey to the Amalfi Coast by bus or ferry.

By road

If you prefer a road trip, you can rent a car and drive to the Amalfi Coast. However, be aware that the coastal roads can be narrow and winding, so driving in this region requires caution. The main access road is the SS163, which runs along the coastline.

Rufalo Villa in Ravello, Amalfi Coast © Shutterstock

Rufalo Villa in Ravello, Amalfi Coast © Shutterstock

7-day Amalfi Coast itinerary

This 7-day Amalfi Coast itinerary promises an immersive experience, blending cultural discoveries, natural beauty, and moments of relaxation on the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. 

Itinerary overview

Kickstart your 7-day odyssey along the Amalfi Coast in the idyllic coastal enclave of Praiano, where panoramic vistas and coastal allure await.

From there, you'll traverse the lemon-scented alleys of Capri, delve into the historical tapestry of Naples, and explore the timeless ruins of Pompeii. The itinerary further unveils the postcard-perfect villages of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, promising a comprehensive immersion into the Amalfi Coast's multifaceted charm. Read more.

Day 1: 

  • Flight to Naples.
  • Check-in and overnight stay in Praiano.

Day 2: 

  • Transfer to Capri.
  • Participate in a limoncello workshop and receive your own bottle.
  • Enjoy a day at leisure on Capri.
  • Return to Praiano for an overnight stay.

Day 3: 

  • Full-day tour of the Amalfi Coast, starting in Ravello.
  • Walk to Amalfi, stopping at scenic viewpoints.
  • Visit the Paper Mill Museum.
  • Lunch in a lemon garden.
  • Explore Amalfi's cobbled alleys and visit the cathedral.
  • Dinner at leisure in Praiano.
  • Overnight stay in Praiano.

Day 4: 

  • Transfer to Naples for a historic tour.
  • Visit San Gennaro Cathedral and Santa Chiara Convent gardens.
  • Transfer to Sorrento for an overnight stay.

Day 5: 

  • Private tour of Pompeii in the morning.
  • Afternoon at leisure in Sorrento.
  • Overnight stay in Sorrento.

Day 6: 

  • Full-day road trip along the stunning Amalfi Coast.
  • Stops in Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.
  • Return to Sorrento for an overnight stay.

Day 7: 

  • Enjoy a day at leisure in Sorrento.
  • Explore the town, relax at the beach, or go shopping.
  • Overnight stay in Sorrento.

Day 8: 

  • Transfer and depart from Naples

How about initiating this journey? Our customized service takes care of all the planning and booking, leaving you worry-free.

Statue of Apollo, Pompeii © BlackMac/Shutterstock

Statue of Apollo, Pompeii © BlackMac/Shutterstock

5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary

Experience the beauty, history, and flavours of Southern Italy with this 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary. With even just five days, you will find that a lot can be discovered in this beautiful region. 

From the bustling streets of Naples to the ancient ruins of Pompeii, the rugged landscapes of Mount Vesuvius, and the enchanting coastal towns of Positano and Capri, this trip will make the most of your five days. 

Itinerary overview:

This 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary starts with the culinary delights of Naples. From there, discover wine and history at Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius before taking a scenic drive along the coast. 

Day 4 includes a beautiful boat trip to Capri. Finally, end your trip by taking a guided hike along the Path of the Gods before departing. Read more.

Day 1: 

  • Arrive in Naples
  • Check in and settle into your accommodation.
  • Naples Street Food Tour to sample the city's culinary delights.

Day 2: 

  • Join a small group tour of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.
  • Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii
  • Hike to the crater of Mount Vesuvius for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Enjoy an exclusive lunch and wine-tasting 

Day 3:

  • Transfer to the picturesque town of Positano on the Amalfi Coast.
  • Check in to your Positano accommodation.
  • Enjoy free time to explore Positano, its charming streets, and beautiful beaches.
  • Take a scenic Amalfi Coast drive with stops for pictures to capture the stunning coastal views.

Day 4: 

  • Embark on a boat trip to the enchanting island of Capri.
  • Explore Capri's beautiful coastline, visit the famous Blue Grotto (if available), and enjoy some leisure time on the island.
  • Return to Positano in the evening.

Day 5:

  • Go on a guided hike along the famous Path of the Gods, which offers breathtaking vistas.
  • Check out.
  • Depart from Naples to your next destination
Giardini di Augusto in Capri, Italy © Natalia Macheda/Shutterstock

Giardini di Augusto in Capri, Italy © Natalia Macheda/Shutterstock

Skip the planning

Our team of local experts is at your service to plan remarkable journeys to the Amalfi Coast. Contact us whenever you're ready to travel, and we'll craft a customized itinerary for you. You can modify it until you're entirely satisfied with every aspect of your booking. Feel free to peruse our pre-designed Italy itineraries for inspiration, and keep in mind that we can adapt any of them to meet your unique requirements.

Dre Roelandt

written by
Dre Roelandt

updated 18.04.2024

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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