If you’re trying to decide on your Amalfi Coast Italy itinerary, then this guide is for you! From where to stay and eat to getting there and around, the best time to visit and the top things to do, it’s all covered right here.
So why not settle down with an Aperol spritz while you plan your perfect stay on Italy’s dazzling, UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast?
We visited a few years ago in November, but been wanting to go back for that European summer vibe!
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1. Planning Your Amalfi Coast Trip
Planning your Amalfi Coast itinerary begins with deciding which gorgeous town to stay in, as well as how many days to spend in this glorious part of Italy.
Best towns to stay in
Positano
If you want breathtaking beauty, then Positano is a good bet. This stylish coastal town offers luxury accommodation, plus lovely beaches backed by rugged cliffs. Do keep in mind that walking routes and steps here can be rather steep, though. Positano is also popular and can therefore get very crowded, especially in summer.
Amalfi
Amalfi Town is at the heart of this 30-mile stretch of coastline on the Sorrento Peninsula. It makes a convenient base for exploring the region – particularly by public transport – and there are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to choose from.
Ravello
Ravello occupies a commanding hilltop position for stunning views over the Amalfi Coast. It’s a prime pick for anyone seeking luxury – think an abundance of upscale accommodation in a romantic, secluded setting.
Sorrento
Sorrento also enjoys a dramatic cliff top location. Technically the town isn’t part of the Amalfi Coast, and is situated to the north, close to the Bay of Naples. Nonetheless it’s a popular place to stay among those exploring the area, and is easy to access by train. I have been to Sorrento twice now and really love it. Check out Sorrento Beach Clubs and Best Hotels in Sorrento. Also check out how to get from Sorrento to Almafi Coast.
Praiano
More peaceful than places like Positano, Praiano has an authentic and laid-back vibe. It also offers sweeping coastal views and a more local experience than busier, bigger Amalfi Coast towns.
Maiori and Minori
If you want to avoid the tourist crowds, head to neighboring Maiori or Minori. These charming towns offer cheaper accommodations, affordable food, and a relaxed local vibe.
How many days to stay on the Amalfi Coast
Ideally, you could spend a week or more exploring the Amalfi Coast, as well as enjoying some well-deserved downtime on the beautiful beaches or by the pool. Spend at least three to five days in the area if you can, or longer if you can spare the time (and money).
Top things to do include taking a boat trip to colorful Positano, discovering Ravello’s pretty gardens and Italian villas, taking the ferry to the upmarket island of Capri for the day, exploring the Roman remains at Pompeii, visiting the Blue Grotto, and spending time in Naples or the local towns. Keen hikers also love to follow the Path of the Gods through the area.
Add-on destinations
Further afield, you could also visit Mount Vesuvius by taking a day tour from Naples or Sorrento, or head to the islands of Ischia or Procida if you have more time to spare.
The longer you spend in the area, the more rewarding your visit is likely to be. Giving yourself an extra day or two also allows you to relax and unwind if you can, rather than rushing around all the time.
2. Getting There to the Amalfi Coast
How to Get to the Amalfi Coast
While you can of course get to the Amalfi Coast from anywhere in Italy, the most popular departure points are Rome, the Italian capital; nearby Naples; and the port city of Salerno.
From Rome
You can drive the 175 miles or so from Rome to the Amalfi Coast via route E45. The trip takes around three-and-a-half hours. However this is one for confident, experienced drivers only, as the routes can be challenging to navigate.
Alternatively, trains operate daily between Rome and Naples, or Salerno. It takes about an hour-and-a-quarter to get to Naples, or two hours to reach Salerno. You can then choose how to reach the Amalfi Coast from there, as follows.
From Naples
The options for getting to the Amalfi Coast from Naples by public transport include taking a ride on a bus or a ferry. By car, the drive takes around an hour and 20 minutes.
Local buses operate between Naples and Sorrento, with a travel time of about one hour and 40 minutes. If you like, you can board buses in Sorrento bound for Positano (45 minutes) or Amalfi (1.5 hours).
For stunning views between April and October, catch one of the five daily ferries from Naples to Amalfi Town. The scenic trip takes about one-and-a-half hours.
You could also opt for convenience and comfort by booking a private transfer from Naples to the Amalfi Coast. A group traveling together can make this more affordable.
From Salerno
Again you could book a private driver to get from Salerno to the Amalfi Coast. Alternatively, take a 30-minute ferry ride from Salerno to Amalfi Town, or a longer trip on a ferry to Positano. These take between 35 and 90 minutes to get there, depending which service you pick.
The other option is to take a one hour journey by public bus from Salerno to Amalfi Town. Services operate once or twice per hour, and stop at various small villages en route.
Driving and Parking in The Amalfi Coast
Though incredibly scenic, the driving routes through the Amalfi Coast can be nothing short of a nightmare. The streets are narrow and often thronged with people, and it’s often far from easy to find your way. If you do rent a car, pick a smaller model which can fit through tight gaps.
Though you may be happy to take on the challenge, you should also think about parking if you’re planning to drive. Finding a spot can be impossible, particularly in high season. If you do decide to drive, be sure to book accommodation that can offer parking for the duration of your stay. Also check out the 411 on Driving in Italy.
3. Top Things to Do On Your Amalfi Coast Itinerary
Living la dolce vita on the Amalfi Coast involves beautiful beaches, breathtaking landmarks, and taking boat tours to explore the coastline further.
Best Beaches
There are many beaches to choose from on the Amalfi Coast, and the most popular sandy spot of all is probably Spiaggia Grande. It’s close to central Positano, and has a free area as well as a couple of beach clubs.
Marina di Praia in Praiano offers a more secluded setting. The small cove is very picturesque, and you can see colorful boats, fishing nets, and stunning scenery. Conditions are good for swimming, too. Marina di Praia is a little over a mile from central Praiano.
Landmarks to Visit
There are various historic, architectural, and natural sites to visit on the Amalfi Coast. Villa Rufolo dominates lovely Ravello, and dates from the 13th century. There’s also the 11th century Villa Cimbrone and its Terrace of Infinity in Ravello.
The best-known monument in Amalfi is the 9th century Duomo di Amalfi, or the Cathedral of St Andrew. It’s been embellished many times, and features Baroque, Byzantine, Gothic, and Romanesque architecture. The crypt, staircase, and ornate facade are must-sees.
The Amalfi Coast’s Path of the Gods is around five miles long, and a moderately challenging route through stunning scenery. Expect steep sections and uneven surfaces as you pass citrus and olive groves, rugged cliffs, rolling vineyards, and of course spectacular ocean views.
Boat Tours to Take
Many boat tours are available on the Amalfi Coast. You can skim across the sea to Capri or the Blue Grotto, or simply cruise along the stunning coastline.
5 Day Amalfi Coast Italy Itinerary
Day 1 – Base & Beach Vibes
Arrive & Settle In: Land at Naples, make your way to Sorrento or Positano (Sorrento’s a bit calmer; Positano’s heart‑in‑your‑throat gorgeous).
Lunch & Leisure: Enjoy fresh seafood by the water—think stone‑oven pizza or seafood spaghetti with limoncello spritzes.
Golden Hour: Hit a beach club (Bagni Regina Giovanna in Sorrento is chic).
Dinner: Cozy trattoria with local fare—fresh mozzarella, pasta al limone, etc.
Day 2 – Positano Day Trip
Morning: Early start—you’ll want to avoid the crowds. Wander the pastel alleys. Visit Santa Maria Assunta (ma • jō • li a dome!) pinterest.com+6madisonsfootsteps.com+6travelswithtalek.com+6.
Beach Time: Chill on Marina Grande or Fornillo beaches.
Lunch: Panino caprese with prosciutto at a cliffside wine shop.
Sunset Cruise/Proposal‑Level Moment: Book a private boat cruise around Positano cliffs. Aperol spritz at sunset? Chef’s kiss.
Dinner: Waterfront seafood, followed by a shot of ice‑cold limoncello.
Day 3 – Capri Adventure
Morning: Ferry to Capri. Don’t miss the Faraglioni rocks and luxe harbor life .
Optional: Boat around the Blue Grotto or just wander shops and gardens.
Lunch: Capri style—seafood pasta or classic “Insalata Caprese.”
Afternoon: Take the funicular or hike to Anacapri; soak in panoramic views.
Evening Return: Head back, find a terrace bar overlooking the bay.
Day 4 – Amalfi, Ravello & Hiking
Start with a Hike: Get on the Path of the Gods – epic coastal views, terraced farms, rugged beauty . Dress comfy, bring water.
Midday in Amalfi: Explore Duomo di Sant’Andrea, enjoy café-lined Piazza del Duomo thesun.ie+14travelswithtalek.com+14gatherandgotravel.com+14.
Afternoon in Ravello: Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, including the breathtaking Terrace of Infinity .
Dinner: Romantic al‑fresco meal up here overlooking the coastline.
Day 5 – Pompeii & Chill‑Time Finale
Morning: Head to Pompeii. Guided tour with skip-the-line + transport makes it chill .
Afternoon: Return slowly to Sorrento/Coast, do a little souvenir shopping, hit a viewpoint.
Sunset Moment: Grab gelato + Aperol spritz again—because why not?
Final Dinner: Celebrate with seafood or pasta overlooking the coastline; reflect on your Positano proposal
🚌 Logistics & Advice
- Getting Around: Buses (SITA) are cheap but packed, consider ferries or private transfers in high season data1.skinnyms.com+15mediterraneanzenmoments.com+15thetimes.co.uk+15.
- When to Go: June–early July is hot; September may be sweeter with fewer crowds .
- Must-Try: Limoncello in Sorrento (it is the original), seafood pasta, home‑made ravioli with lemon zest.
🔄 Customization Tips
- Prefer more relaxation? Drop Pompeii and spend a day soaking in a beach club or a ceramic-making workshop in Vietri sul Mare maketimetoseetheworld.comlacucinaitaliana.com+7thetimes.co.uk+7vogue.com+7.
- Add a day in Conca dei Marini to snorkel in the Grotta dello Smeraldo en.wikipedia.org+1vogue.com+1.
- Craving culture? Time it with the Ravello Festival in summer for a concert overlooking the sea thetimes.co.uk+5en.wikipedia.org+5thetimes.co.uk+5.
🏷️ Summary Table
| Day | Location(s) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sorrento / Positano | Beach, seafood lunch, limoncello by sunset |
| 2 | Positano | Church, beaches, sunset private boat ride |
| 3 | Capri | Faraglioni, boat/shops, Anacapri views |
| 4 | Path of Gods → Amalfi → Ravello | Hiking, Duomo, villa gardens |
| 5 | Pompeii → Coast | Ancient ruins, last gelato & Aperol moment |
4. Where to Stay and Eat
Best Restaurants and Cafes
As you might expect, the Amalfi Coast is paradise for foodies, where delicious Italian cuisine meets super fresh, succulent seafood. The list of recommended restaurants and cafes in each town is ever-changing, but there are some perennial favorites to look out for.
Positano
Dine on farm-fresh produce at La Tagliata, or spot celebrities at Michelin-starred La Sponda within Le Sirenuse Hotel. Both of these are located in Positano.
Amalfi
Fifth generation family-run Pasticceria Pansa is a go-to in Amalfi Town, as is seafood hotspot Lido Azzurro by the port.
Ravello
In Ravello, try the six-course tasting menu at Belmond Hotel Caruso, or Michelin-starred Rossellinis Restaurant within Palazzo Avino.
Sorrento
For Michelin-starred dining out in Sorrento, book ahead for creative cuisine at Zest, or Mediterranean specialities at Il Buco, Lorelei, or Terrazza Bosquet.
Praiano
If you’re staying in or visiting Praiano, try Da Armandino beneath the cliffs for the freshly-prepared catch of the day, or laid-back Kasai for local fare with a creative twist.
Maiori and Minori
The top pick in peaceful Maiori is Casa Mandina, where there are a la carte and tasting menus to choose from. In Minori, opt for Taberna 33 close to the beach for delicious, authentic dishes.
Top Accommodation Options
Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast depends on where you would prefer to be located, and the level of luxury you require. There are plenty of five star luxury properties in this area, but it is possible to find some great value guest houses and hotels, too. If you’re weighing up affordable versus luxury accommodation options, read on for some recommended places to stay.
Positano
The best places to stay in Positano for those seeking five star style include serene, secluded Le Sirenuse and cliffside Il San Pietro di Positano.
Travelers seeking cheaper options could book into the three star Hotel Royal Prisco, which has fresh blue-and-white decor, car parking, and a bar. There’s also Hotel Savoia with four stars and a fabulous location, or the traditional style guest house Villa Rosa.
Amalfi
Five star Borgo Santandrea offers full length windows, sea views, and an infinity pool in Amalfi, while Hotel Santa Caterina boasts direct beach access.
More pocket-friendly picks in Amalfi include Hotel La Pergola, which is idyllically set among lemon groves and serves up yummy homemade food.
Ravello
Palazzo Avino in Ravello – aka the pink palace of Ravello – is home to a Michelin-starred restaurant, while Belmond Caruso offers private terraces or balconies with most rooms. The Belmond books up pretty fast so book way ahead of time.
For those without endless cash to splash, Ravello’s more modest offerings include three star Hotel Parsifal, which was formerly a convent, and has ocean views, gardens, and the original cloisters.
Sorrento
Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria in Sorrento boasts Vesuvius-facing terraces and a Michelin-starred eatery.
In a more affordable price bracket, the unusually named Unconventional Sorrento Coast offers lovely gardens, modern rooms, and a bar. We stayed at Sorrento Apartments and loved it! Their black out curtains and quiet street was perfect.
Praiano
If Praiano is your pick, sleep in style at Casa Angelina, a dazzlingly white 1970s property with warm wood flooring and divinely scented rooms.
Or for a more affordable option, four star Hotel Margherita offers comfortable rooms, all with private balconies, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant. Alternatively, three star Hotel Pellegrino offers parking, a restaurant and bar, great views and air conditioning.
Maiori and Minori
Between them, the neighboring small Amalfi Coast towns of Maiori and Minori offer some of the best budget accommodation in the area. The Ocean-facing Hotel Pensione Reale in Maiori is highly rated for its location, cleanliness, and sea view balconies.
Hotel Santa Lucia in Minori is a great mid-range, four star pick, offering the beach and Roman villa close by, a range of room types, and a bar and restaurant on site.
What to Look for
When choosing your Amalfi Coast hotel, initially think about where you want to be and how much you want to pay. Next on the list are your personal priorities.
Would you prefer a room with air conditioning during summer? Are you willing to pay more for a bucket list view? How about getting around – do you require a property with parking, or one that’s conveniently close to public transport links?
5. Best Time to Visit the Amalfi Coast
The ideal months for avoiding crowds and high prices while enjoying warm, pleasant weather are May, June, and September. Summer is lovely, but can be hot and crowded, while the area tends to wind down somewhat between October and April.
Overall visiting the Amalfi Coast should be added to your Italy planning trip.
