5 days Itinerary of the Amalfi Coast!

Stunning coastal towns mesmerise you with their surreal charm as you travel down the Amalfi Coast. Definitely one of the most beautiful places I have personally visited. Head to the Amalfi Coast for a breathless 5 days (or longer) which will make your dream vacation very real! Move through the towns on the Amalfi coast as you discover things to do on the Amalfi coast, Amalfi coast towns and the best places to stay in the Amalfi Coast.

Where do you fly into for Amalfi Coast? Nearest Airport – Naples (Capodichino International Airport)

Amalfi Coast Itinerary Highlights

Day 1: Positano and Sorrento

Positano is a picturesque town located on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. It is known for its colorful buildings that cascade down the cliffs towards the turquoise sea below. Positano is a popular tourist destination, particularly in the summer months, and is known for its beaches, boutique shops, and seafood restaurants.

Visit the beautiful Spiaggia Grande, which is one of the most popular beaches in the area. Wander through the charming streets of Positano, filled with vibrant houses, boutiques, and local artisan shops. Don’t miss the opportunity to buy handmade ceramics, limoncello, and other souvenirs.

Some of the most popular attractions in Positano Amalfi Coast include the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and the Path of the Gods hiking trail. The Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) hiking trail, which offers breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast is a relatively easy hike and a perfect way to experience the region’s natural beauty.

Take a boat tour along the coastline to see the beautiful cliffs and cove. You can go on a day cruise along the Amalfi Coast to see picturesque cliffside villages from a different perspective.

If you do not opt for a boat tour, head to Sorrento, which is a charming town known for its lemon groves and limoncello. Visit the Piazza Tasso and explore the narrow streets and shops. One of the main attractions in Sorrento is its historic town center, which features narrow streets and alleys lined with traditional shops selling everything from handmade ceramics to locally produced limoncello. Visitors can also explore the town’s ancient Roman ruins, including the Villa Pollio and the Baths of Queen Giovanna.

Sorrento is also known for its beautiful beaches, including Marina Grande, which is one of the largest and most popular beaches in the area. The town is also a great base for exploring the nearby islands of Capri and Ischia, as well as the historic city of Naples and the ancient ruins of Pompeii.

Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants in Sorrento. Being located in the Campania region of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Sorrento offers a variety of mouthwatering dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Here are some traditional dishes you should try while in Sorrento

1. Lemon Delights: Sorrento is famous for its lemons, so indulge in lemon-flavored treats like my personal favourite Limoncello (lemon liqueur), Lemon Sorbet, or Torta al Limone (lemon cake).
2. Gnocchi alla Sorrentina: This classic dish features soft potato dumplings (gnocchi) smothered in tomato sauce, fresh basil, and melted mozzarella cheese.
3. Seafood Pasta: Being a coastal town, Sorrento offers a wide selection of seafood pasta dishes, such as Spaghetti alle Vongole (with clams) or Risotto ai Frutti di Mare (seafood risotto).
4. Pizza: While Naples, not far from Sorrento, is the birthplace of pizza, you can still find delicious Neapolitan-style pizza in Sorrento. Try classics like Margherita (tomato, mozzarella, and basil) or Marinara (tomato, garlic, oregano, and olive oil).
5. Parmigiana di Melanzane: A popular Italian dish, it consists of layers of fried eggplant, tomato sauce, basil, and cheese, baked to perfection.
6. Insalata Caprese: This simple and refreshing salad is made with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and drizzled with olive oil.
7. Ravioli Capresi: These are delicious ravioli filled with caciotta cheese, Parmesan, and marjoram, typically served with a tomato sauce.
8. Sfogliatella: A delightful pastry filled with sweet ricotta cheese, candied fruit, and flavored with orange flower water.
9. Provolone del Monaco: A local cheese specialty, Provolone del Monaco is a semi-hard cheese with a unique flavor.
10. Rum Babà: This rum-soaked sponge cake is a popular dessert in the region and perfect for those who enjoy a bit of indulgence.

When dining in Sorrento, don’t forget to pair your meal with the excellent local wines, such as Lacryma Christi (Tears of Christ) and Greco di Tufo. Additionally, explore the town’s numerous gelaterias for some of the best gelato in Italy. Enjoy the culinary delights that Sorrento has to offer!

Day 2: Amalfi Town and Ravello

Start your day by visiting the beautiful Amalfi town and exploring its narrow streets and colorful houses . Visit the 9th-century Amalfi Cathedral, which is known for its beautiful architecture and artwork. Take a short hike up to the Valle dei Mulini, which is a beautiful valley with ruins of old paper mills.

In the afternoon, head to Ravello, which is a charming town known for its beautiful gardens and villas. Ravello is situated in the Campania region, about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) inland from the town of Amalfi. It is perched on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Ravello is famous for its historic villas, namely Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone. Villa Rufolo dates back to the 13th century and features beautiful gardens, courtyards, and a terrace overlooking the sea. Villa Cimbrone boasts stunning gardens and the famous Terrace of Infinity, offering panoramic views of the coastline. This is often listed amongst the top things to do in the Amalfi coast.

Ravello hosts an internationally renowned music festival, the Ravello Festival, from June to September. The festival takes place in various locations, including Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, and features classical music concerts, opera performances, and cultural events.

Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants in Ravello. Ravello is known for its delicious cuisine and local specialties. Indulge in authentic Italian dishes at local restaurants and trattorias. Don’t forget to try regional specialties like fresh seafood, limoncello (lemon liqueur), and local wines.

Day 3: Capri Island

Take a ferry to the beautiful island of Capri, which is known for its stunning views and beautiful landscapes. One of the most popular attractions on Capri is the Blue Grotto, a sea cave with brilliant blue water that is illuminated by sunlight passing through an underwater cavity. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the grotto up close.

Capri is also known for its beautiful beaches, including Marina Piccola and the Faraglioni Rocks, which are three towering rock formations that jut out of the sea. Visitors can take a boat tour around the island to see these natural wonders and enjoy the scenic views.

Take a chairlift up to Mount Solaro for stunning panoramic views of the island. Explore the beautiful town of Anacapri and visit the Villa San Michele, which is a beautiful villa with stunning gardens.

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants in Capri. Capri is also known for its high-end shopping and dining experiences. The island is home to a number of luxury boutiques and restaurants, including Michelin-starred restaurants like L’Olivo and Il Riccio.

Return to the mainland in the evening

Day 4: Pompeii and Vesuvius

Take a day trip to Pompeii, a historic city located near Naples in southern Italy. It was once a thriving ancient Roman city that was destroyed and buried under layers of ash and pumice when the nearby Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Today, Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Explore the ancient ruins of the city, which was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Some of the most impressive sites include the Amphitheater, the Forum, and the House of the Vettii, which features beautiful frescoes and mosaics.

In the afternoon, head to Mount Vesuvius and take a guided tour to the summit. Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and the surrounding area. The most famous eruption of Mount Vesuvius occurred in 79 AD, burying the ancient Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum under volcanic ash and debris.

Visitors typically arrive by taking a bus or driving to the base of the mountain. From the parking area, you can hike to the summit of Vesuvius. The hike takes around 30-40 minutes and involves some steep terrain.

Viewpoints: At the summit, you’ll find viewpoints from which you can look into the volcanic crater and enjoy stunning vistas of the Bay of Naples and the surrounding area.

Guided Tours: Guided tours are available and can provide you with insights into the geology and history of the volcano.

Important Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes and suitable clothing for hiking.
• Bring water, as there may not be facilities along the trail.
• Check for any activity alerts or access restrictions before visiting, as volcanic activity can affect visitor safety.

Return to your hotel at night.

Day 5: Paestum and Salerno

Take a day trip to Paestum, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important ancient Greek cities in Italy. Paestum is famous for its remarkably well-preserved Greek temples. The three major temples are the Temple of Hera (also known as the Basilica), the Temple of Poseidon (Neptune), and the Temple of Athena (Ceres). These temples are considered among the best-preserved examples of ancient Greek architecture.

Explore the remains of the ancient city walls and gates that once enclosed the urban center. Paestum is less crowded compared to other major archaeological sites in Italy, making it a peaceful and immersive experience. The site is also known for its stunning natural surroundings.

In the afternoon, head to Salerno, which is a charming town known for its beautiful seafront and historic center. Salerno is known for its beautiful beaches, including the Lungomare Trieste and Santa Teresa Beach. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, as well as stunning views of the Gulf of Salerno and the surrounding mountains.

Visit the Cathedral of Salerno and explore the narrow streets and shops. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants in Salerno. When in Salerno, do not forget to visit the quaint corner of Vietri Sul Mare. There is a coffeeshop near the sea without any of the crowd of the Amalfi Coast.

In addition to its natural beauty and historic landmarks, Salerno is also a great base for exploring the nearby Amalfi Coast and the ancient ruins of Pompeii (if you don’t want to stay in Sorrento or any of the towns in the Amalfi Coast).

This itinerary can be customized based on your interests and preferences. Note that travel time can vary depending on ferry schedules and traffic conditions.

Top Places to Eat in the Amalfi Coast

Apart from its stunning scenery, the Amalfi Coast is known for it’s delicious food. Here are some of the best places to eat on the Amalfi Coast:

1. Il Pirata – located in Praiano, Il Pirata is a beachside restaurant that offers fresh seafood and stunning views of the sea.
2. La Tagliata – located in Positano, La Tagliata is a family-run restaurant that offers traditional Italian cuisine in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
3. Ristorante Da Costantino – located in Amalfi, Ristorante Da Costantino is known for its fresh seafood and beautiful views of the Amalfi Coast.
4. Il Flauto di Pan – located in Ravello, Il Flauto di Pan offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine with a creative twist. The restaurant has a beautiful terrace overlooking the sea.
5. Trattoria Da Lorenzo – located in Sorrento, Trattoria Da Lorenzo is a local favorite that serves classic Italian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
6. Ristorante Don Alfonso 1890 – located in Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi, Ristorante Don Alfonso 1890 is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a unique and innovative tasting menu featuring local ingredients.
7. Da Adolfo – located in Laurito Beach, Da Adolfo is a beachside restaurant that offers fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere. Accessible only by boat, it’s a great place to enjoy a leisurely lunch with a view.

Sip it all down with a glass of Limoncello, every time. 🙂

The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast

The peak season for tourism on the Amalfi Coast is from mid-June to August. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and many festivals and events take place. However, the crowds can be overwhelming, and prices for accommodation and transportation can be high.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is in the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. You may also find more affordable accommodation and transportation options.

If you’re interested in hiking or outdoor activities, the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is in the spring or fall when the temperatures are cooler and the trails are less crowded.

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast

Base for an Amalfi coast Vacation – Sorrento (The town has some beautiful hotels, and gorgeous AirBnbs). Travel from here by Ferry or Rent a Car. Remember one thing, if you stay at Sorrento, you will either travel by rented car, ferry or rented two wheeler. The bus takes too long in my personal opinion. Taking a two wheeler and driving down the windy coastal road could be a bit problematic.

We stayed at an AirBnb near Sorrento, and while the place was gorgeous and had great views of the water, you need a car to travel unless you are okay with walking uphill quite a bit. The views and location was beautiful though. We had a car with us and the drives were lovely, especially early mornings and sunsets.

https://www.airbnb.co.in/rooms/34405851?source_impression_id=p3_1683727966_7A50alfGqRhbtR4C

Or better yet, if you are looking for the best places to stay on the Amalfi Coast, you can choose to stay in one of the gorgeous towns from Positano to Atrani. Furore can be a great place in between, it lets you be near to the gorgeous locations without being over crowded like Positano. Most people who stay near Amalfi or Atrani hire a two wheeler. Parking is expensive in places, especially for cars.

Moving between towns by Ferry is easier because you don’t have to climb up and down hundreds of stairs for each town. But the road trip is something else. Remember, you will have to walk up in Ravello regardless of where you stay. Bring comfortable shoes for the Amalfi Coast.

What not to do in the Amalfi Coast

Like every other place in the world, when travelling through the Amalfi Coast, there are a few things you should avoid doing to ensure you have a pleasant and respectful experience. Here are some things not to do in the Amalfi Coast:

1. Don’t disregard local customs: The Amalfi Coast has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions. Familiarize yourself with basic Italian etiquette and customs before your visit. For example, it’s customary to greet people with a friendly “buongiorno” (good morning) or “buonasera” (good evening).
2. Don’t ignore parking regulations: Parking can be challenging in the Amalfi Coast due to limited spaces and narrow roads. Avoid parking in restricted areas or blocking traffic. Utilize designated parking lots or ask locals for recommendations on where to park safely.
3. Don’t litter: The Amalfi Coast’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws, and it’s crucial to preserve it. Always dispose of your trash properly and avoid littering. Respect the environment by keeping the beaches, trails, and streets clean.
4. Don’t haggle excessively: While bargaining may be acceptable in some cultures, it’s not commonly practiced in the Amalfi Coast. Most shops and vendors have fixed prices, so attempting to haggle excessively may be seen as rude or disrespectful. If you’re unsure, politely ask if the price is negotiable.
5. Don’t swim in unauthorized areas: The Amalfi Coast offers stunning coastal waters, but not all areas are suitable for swimming. Respect safety guidelines and swim only in designated areas or beaches with lifeguards. Be aware of any warning signs indicating hazardous conditions.
6. Don’t trespass on private property: The Amalfi Coast is home to many private villas, gardens, and properties. Avoid trespassing on private land, even if it appears inviting. Respect people’s privacy and admire the stunning views from public areas and viewpoints.
7. Don’t disregard appropriate attire for religious sites: If you plan to visit churches or other religious sites along the Amalfi Coast, dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or beachwear when entering these places. It’s best to have your shoulders and knees covered.
8. Don’t neglect sunscreen and hydration: The Amalfi Coast enjoys a Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine. Protect your skin by applying sunscreen regularly, especially during peak hours. Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle with you, as the combination of sun, heat, and physical activity can be exhausting.
9. Don’t rush through places: The Amalfi Coast is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons. Avoid rushing through the attractions or overcrowding viewpoints and landmarks. Be patient and allow yourself time to fully appreciate the beauty of the area.
10. Don’t forget to try local cuisine: The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its delicious food and fresh seafood. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in regional specialties that are sure to blow your mind away.

Photo Spots : The Amalfi Coast in southern Italy is known for its stunning scenery, picturesque towns, and beautiful beaches, making it a popular destination for photographers and tourists alike.

Here are some of the best photo spots along the Amalfi Coast

1. Positano: This colorful town is one of the most photographed spots on the Amalfi Coast, with its pastel-colored buildings cascading down the cliffs towards the sea. The best vantage points for photos are from the water or from the top of the town.
2. Ravello: This small town is known for its beautiful gardens and stunning views of the coastline. The Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo are both great spots for taking photos.
3. Amalfi: This historic town on the Amalfi Coast is home to a beautiful cathedral and a picturesque harbor. The best vantage point for photos is from the water or from the top of the town.
4. Furore: This small village is known for its beautiful fjord and picturesque bridge. The best time to take photos is during sunset when the light is at its best.
5. Conca dei Marini: This small town is known for its beautiful beach and stunning views of the sea. The best vantage point for photos is from the top of the town, where you can capture the entire coastline.
6. Praiano: This quiet town is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning views of the sea. The best vantage point for photos is from the water or from the top of the town.

Overall, the Amalfi Coast is filled with stunning photo opportunities at every turn, and with a little bit of exploration, you’re sure to find the perfect holiday photo to remember for a lifetime.

Make your Amalfi Coast vacation more memorable with a trip to Rome and Florence. Are you in love with Italy like I am?