Amalfi Coast itinerary – How to spend the perfect week on Amalfi Coast

If the Amalfi Coast is on your travel list, you’re in for a treat—and I’m here to guide you through it.

I’ve visited Italy too many times to count, but it wasn’t until 2022 that I first stepped foot on the Amalfi Coast and was absolutely blown away. Trust me, there’s a reason everyone raves about this place; it’s as mesmerizing as they say!

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Piecing together the best Amalfi Coast itinerary can be a challenge, especially when you’re trying to squeeze in all the breathtaking spots, relaxing beach time, and navigating the local scene.

That’s where I come in! Drawing from my own experiences, I’ve put together the ultimate guide to 7 days on the Amalfi Coast so that you don’t miss a beat.

What is the Amalfi Coast and why visit

The Amalfi Coast is a dreamy stretch of coastline set in the Campania region of southern Italy. Known for its extraordinary beauty, this UNESCO-listed destination is made up of 13 enchanting towns, including the world-famous Positano.

Considered to be one of the most spectacular spots on the Mediterranean, the Amalfi Coast is undeniably worth a visit. Think winding roads, dramatic cliffs on one side and the sparkling sea on the other, and towns encrusted with pastel houses that look like they’re spilling right into the sea. Every twist and turn leads to views so incredible, you’ll be convinced they can’t be real.

From the sun-kissed beaches and lush lemon groves, the Amalfi Coast is the epitome of Mediterranean charm. So if you thought the perfect vacation destination didn’t exist, think again.

Know before you go 

Overtourism is real

The Amalfi Coast is, without a doubt, one of the world’s most popular travel destinations. This popularity, however, means that the coast faces its fair share of overtourism.

This influx of tourists can lead to crowded spaces and make securing accommodations and activities a bit more challenging.

To ensure you get the most out of your visit, you’ll want to plan your Amalfi trip well in advance. I recommend booking accommodations and tours as soon as your travel dates are set to help you avoid any potential issues with availability and pricing.

But don’t let this discourage you from visiting. The Amalfi Coast has so much to offer that it’s worth the extra effort to plan ahead.

Consider your mobility

When planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, it’s important to consider your mobility needs. While the cliffs and seaside towns are part of the region’s charm, they also mean navigating lots of stairs and steep pathways.

If you or someone you’re traveling with has mobility concerns, it’s important to do your homework before booking accommodation. You’ll want to make sure you read the reviews to get a good idea of where properties are located and their accessibility so that you can choose a spot that suits your needs.

Packing light is another tip that can significantly ease your mobility around the coast. Less luggage means less to carry up and down those inevitable stairs, making moving from place to place much smoother.

For getting around, consider traveling by boat between towns. Boats connect the main towns and are the best way to travel the Amalfi Coast, allowing you to avoid the traffic and winding roads that make car travel challenging. Plus, you’ll get awesome views of the coast as you cruise along the water.

How many days on the Amalfi Coast?

Seven days on the Amalfi Coast is the perfect amount of time to really immerse yourself in the darling towns of this region.

Of course, if your time is limited, you can still see the Amalfi Coast on a day trip from Naples or even Rome. Typical day tours take you to Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, giving you a taste of the coast’s main highlights.

Read next: Amalfi Coast Itinerary

However, to truly experience and appreciate the Amalfi Coast, you’ll want to spend at least 3-4 days in the area. This will give you plenty of time to explore each town at a leisurely pace, hike along picturesque trails, and even take day trips to nearby islands like Capri or Ischia.

Where to stay on Amalfi Coast

For this Amalfi Coast trip itinerary, you’ll be based in 2 locations. The first half of the trip will take place in Sorrento, while the second half will be in Positano. Here are the best places to stay in each town:

Read next: Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast

Where to Stay in Sorrento [3 Nights]

Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria

Indulge in celebrity treatment in a historic property right on Sorrento’s main square. 

Palazzo Delle Grazie Sorrento

Embrace the quintessence of Italian charm at this delightful B&B in the heart of Sorrento.

Corte’s House

Enjoy modern comfort with a touch of Italian warmth in these bright, airy apartments.

Where to stay in Positano [4 Nights]

La Sirenuse

Splash out on your Amalfi Coast getaway at La Sirenuse, a luxury boutique hotel and an absolute dream of a property.

Dimora Del Podesta

Compared to most hotels in the area, this B&B is a more affordable accommodation option in Positano.

Casa Baker Luxury Apartment

A serene retreat in a less crowded area for the ultimate local experience.

7 day Amalfi Coast itinerary

Day 1 – Sorrento

Sorrento is the main hub of the Amalfi Coast and a convenient home base for sightseeing for the first half of your trip. Its accessibility from the airport and the abundance of day tours that start from here make it a convenient choice.

After settling into your accommodation, jump right into Centro Storico (historic old town) and let your feet lead the way. There are two marinas in Sorrento, Marina Grande and Marina Piccola, both with beautiful views of the coastline. Join a walking tour of Sorrento with locals that will guide you to the town’s main attractions while sampling gelato, pastries, and other goodies along the way.

End your day at Fauno Bar, situated right on Sorrento’s main square, Piazza Tasso. The setting is magical, and don’t even get me started on the food. All of the dishes are a great introduction to traditional southern Italian cuisine, but the melt-in-your-mouth cannelloni are to die for.

Day 2 – Day Trip to Capri

Spend an entire day on the enchanting island of Capri. Just a short boat ride from the coast, Capri embodies the glitz and glamour of the Mediterranean lifestyle. The entire island has such a special vibe to it and is exactly what comes to mind when you picture a luxurious Italian vacation.

Start your exploration in the heart of Capri town. Wander the whitewashed alleyways, window shop at the luxury boutiques on Via Camerelle, and grab a seat at one of the inviting outdoor cafes for a cappuccino and some people watching. 

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Giardini di Augusto. These gorgeous gardens offer breathtaking views of the Faraglioni rock formations and the sparkling waters below.

For a change of pace, catch a bus to Anacapri. This little town presents a more down-to-earth side of island life, with its artisan workshops and peaceful piazzas. The highlight here is undoubtedly the chairlift to Mt. Solaro. The ride up and the views from the top are simply jaw-dropping!

Wrap up your day in Capri with some beach time at Spiaggia Marina Piccola where you can soak up the sun and float in some of the most dazzling turquoise waters you’ll ever see.

Getting to Capri is easy in the summer! Leave figuring out the logistics to the experts and enjoy a stress-free day with this private Capri island tour that picks you up in Sorrento.

If you choose to take the ferry to Capri, you can join a shared tour of Capri that includes a boat ride around the island. 

Day 3 – Day Trip to Pompeii

When it comes to Amalfi Coast things to do, you have to make time for visiting Pompeii, an ancient Roman city that was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. You can easily reach Pompeii by taking the Circumvesuviana train from Sorrento.

Once in Pompeii, you’ll have the chance to walk through the archaeological site and explore well-preserved buildings, giving you a glimpse into what life was like before the devastating eruption.

The ruins are huge, and it could take days to see everything, so a guided tour of Pompeii is well worth the money. Not only will your guide provide you with valuable information and knowledge about the ruins, but you’ll also get to skip the line at popular spots!

After your tour, head back to Sorrento for a delicious dinner at La Cantinaccia del Popolo for some authentic local pasta dishes. And don’t forget to grab a scoop (or two!) of gelato for dessert before calling it a night.

Day 4 – Positano

On Day 4, you’ll move your base over to Positano where you’ll stay for the rest of your time on the Amalfi Coast.

Positano is the most famous town on the coast and rightfully so. With its pastel-painted houses cascading down the cliffs all the way to the sea, it’s no wonder why it attracts travelers from all over the world.

Start your day with a guided walking tour of the town, or head straight to the beach!

There are several options for your beach day. Spiaggia Grande is the public beach, and most famous one, in all of Positano. But since you’re on holiday, I recommend splurging on a beach club.

Read next: Best things to do in Positano

Arienzo Beach Club is a fantastic choice for this. They’ve got everything you need: sunbeds, umbrellas, great food and drinks, guaranteeing a relaxing day by the sea.

For something a bit more upscale and luxurious, La Scogliera is an excellent spot. This exclusive beach club boasts a spacious stone terrace, a secluded beach area equipped with plush sun loungers, and even private showers. It also has an on-site restaurant serving delicious Italian bites, making it the best spot to indulge in a day of seafront relaxation.

As the day winds down, Franco’s Rooftop Bar offers the ideal setting for an aperitivo (Italian happy hour). Located on the La Sirenuse hotel property, this stylish bar is open to all. Perched on the terrace, sipping an Aperol Spritz or a homemade Limoncello, you’ll have the best seat in the house to watch the sunset over the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Day 5 – Amalfi Coast Boat Tour

Get ready to see the best of the Amalfi Coast from an entirely new perspective – by sea.

A boat tour is by far one of the best things to do in Amalfi. Seeing the charming coastal towns from the water offers unique views that you simply can’t get from land. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to take some epic photos!

From Positano, you can take a boat tour to explore nearby islands like Ischia, and sneak into secluded coves and hidden Amalfi Coast beaches along the way. I suggest picking a tour that stops at the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), a sea cave that illuminates with a vibrant blue light, creating an experience that is out of this world.

For a more personalized day out, book a private Amalfi boat tour. With a private tour, you’re in control, and your skipper will take you to all the top spots for swimming and snorkeling.

If you’re watching your budget but still want to cruise along the coast, go for a group boat tour from Positano. These tours still hit all the highlights of the coast, providing a shared yet equally memorable experience with fellow travelers.

Day 6 – Explore Ravello, Amalfi and Atrani

Day 6 is when you venture into the heart of the Amalfi Coast’s elegance and history, starting with my personal favorite town of Ravello.

Nestled high on a cliff with sensational views of the sapphire sea, Ravello is a true gem. Begin your day with a guided walking tour to get acquainted with the town’s history and landmarks.

After the tour, head to Piazza Centrale, where you can indulge in a delicious sfogliatella and a perfectly foamy cappuccino.

Read next: Best things to do in Ravello

Afterwards, explore the ancient homes of Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, both boasting beautiful gardens overlooking the sea.

If you want to bring home a piece of Amalfi’s artistry, this is the place. Ravello’s streets are dotted with shops showcasing colorful, hand-painted Amalfi Coast ceramics, where you can pick up a unique souvenir or gift. Ceramiche D’Arte Carmela is my top choice for shopping!

After soaking up Ravello’s beauty, descend to the quaint town of Amalfi.

Wander through its streets, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by stunning architecture, like the 9th-century Duomo di Amalfi. As you explore further, you’ll stumble across the iconic nativity scenes built into the rock face, as well as the Museo della Carta that tells the tale of Amalfi’s paper-making legacy.

Read next: Best things to do in Amalfi town

Don’t miss out on enjoying a freshly-made lemon sorbet, served in oversized Amalfi Coast lemons, as you stroll down Ruga Nova Mercatorum.

From Amalfi it’s just a 10-minute walk through a hidden tunnel to the neighbouring village of Atrani. This fishing village is tiny but incredibly scenic and is at its most beautiful for sunset.

Read next: Best things to do in Atrani

To cap off an unforgettable day, return to Amalfi for dinner. There’s no place better than Da Gemma restaurant in Amalfi for dinner. Here, you’ll be treated to an array of outstanding dishes, but the lemon risotto with shrimp is a standout that shouldn’t be missed.

Day 7 – Get Local

For your last day on the Amalfi Coast, it’s time for a real taste of local life. Choose between two fantastic options to wrap up your itinerary: an Amalfi Coast cooking class or a scenic hike.

This small group cooking class is a great way to connect with the local culinary traditions. Set in a private home in Montepertuso, just above Positano, Emily and her mother will teach you how to make traditional gnocchi and tiramisu from scratch, using ingredients fresh from their garden.

Alternatively, if you’re up for an outdoor adventure, the Amalfi Coast Path of the Gods offers an incredible hiking experience. This is one of the most popular Amalfi Coast hikes that takes you along the cliffs with amazing views over Positano and the coastline.

Nearby, the Valle delle Ferriere offers a peaceful escape into nature, with waterfalls and lush greenery that seem to transport you to another world. There are even natural pools where you can cool off after your hike!

Whichever option you choose, spending your final day like a local allows you to leave the Amalfi Coast with a genuine sense of connection to this beautiful region.

Getting to Amalfi Coast

By air: There is no Amalfi Coast airport, rather the closest airport to the Amalfi Coast is Naples International Airport (NAP). It is about 60.9 km (37 miles), or a 1 hour and 20 minute drive away. Once you land at the airport, you will need to take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to get to the Amalfi Coast.

Private Transfer: Arranging a private transfer from Naples Airport to the Amalfi Coast is the best option. A driver will meet you at the airport and take you directly to your accommodation so you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or dragging your luggage around. This option may be a bit more expensive, but it offers convenience and peace of mind.

By boat: The Amalfi Coast can be reached by boat from the Naples port, Molo Beverello. There are a number of ferries that run from Naples to Sorento, Positano, and Amalfi Town. Depending on your final destination, your journey time will be between 1.5 to 2 hours.

By bus: This is the cheapest option for getting to the Amalfi Coast from Naples, but it can also be the most time-consuming. You can get from Naples to Sorrento in about 1.5 hours with FlixBus which offers 2 direct buses per day.

By train: The train from Naples to Sorrento takes about an hour, and then from there you will need to take a taxi or the local SITA bus to your final destination.

By car: Renting a car to explore the Amalfi Coast is an option, but it’s important to know that the roads there are quite narrow and winding, which can be a bit tricky if you’re not used to such conditions. Also, finding parking can be extremely difficult, especially in peak season. So, if you decide to rent a car, it’s wise to check with your accommodation about parking options ahead of time.

Getting around Amalfi Coast

Strolling through the Amalfi Coast, you’ll find that many of its towns, much like Positano and Sorrento, are best explored on foot with their quaint streets and stairways. But if you want to see what lies beyond your doorstep, getting around will require a bit of planning. Here are your travel options:

• SITA Bus: Taking the local SITA bus is the most wallet-friendly option to get from one town to the next on the Amalfi Coast.
• Taxi: While taxis offer a quick and straightforward way to your destination, be prepared for a pricier journey. They’re great for when you’re looking for comfort and efficiency.
• Private Car or Scooter Rental: If you crave the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a scooter or car might sound appealing. However, this adventure is only suited for skilled and confident drivers. The roads in this area are narrow with steep cliffs, so navigation can be challenging. Additionally, during the tourist season, restrictions and heavy traffic can turn driving into a challenge.

Is the Amalfi Coast worth visiting?

Visiting the Amalfi Coast is an absolute must! If you’re searching for the perfect summer vacation destination, the Amalfi Coast has it all.

This stretch of Italian coastline, where colorful cliffside villages meet the shimmering sea, and where the scent of lemon trees fills the air, is postcard-perfect. 

Best time to visit the Amalfi Coast

The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is during shoulder season, which includes the months of May and September. During this time, the weather will still be pleasantly warm, and you’ll be able to enjoy the sights and Amalfi attractions without rubbing elbows with other tourists.