amalfi coast 4 day trip

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Amalfi Coast Itinerary (4 Days)

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Welcome to this 4 Days in Amalfi Coast itinerary.

Stretching roughly 50km along the Tyrrhenian coastline in Southern Italy, The Amalfi Coast is one of the most popular places to visit in Europe.

With sprawling cliffs, charming port towns, and a variety of beautiful islands to visit, The Amalfi Coast has it all. With visitors spending many days or even weeks discovering the region and its nearby destinations.

Table of Contents

4 days in Amalfi Coast

We recommend a minimum of four days to be able to properly explore The Amalfi Coast, which includes many of the popular destinations, as well as a couple of close-by experiences that simply cannot be missed.

If you read our 2 weeks in Italy itinerary you’ll find a shorter more compact itinerary covering the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento in just 3 days.

Best Time to Visit The Amalfi Coast

The weather in The Amalfi Coast is best described as typical Mediterranean weather, and follows a similar annual pattern to the rest of Southern Europe.

The summer season, which runs from June until September, is the best time to visit this beautiful region of Italy.

During summer, you can take this full-day trip to the Amalfi coast to see the best examples of Mediterranean beauty and culture.

You’ll be glad to know that the average temperatures range from 70-75°F, with highs of up to 84°F, and lows of a comfortable 59-64°F. July and August are historically the hottest months to visit The Amalfi Coast.

The winter season is much cooler, however still a nice time to explore the region. Especially so, if you’ll be renting a car to travel the region?

With average temperatures ranging from 47-55°F, it’s a lot chillier, although highs can reach up to 63°F on a good day. Lows can drop as far as 37°F, so make sure you bring warm layers and a coat.

Rainfall is fairly consistent throughout the year, which ranges from 25-45mm for each month. December is the exception, with around 65mm falling on an average of 16 rainy days.

The driest month to visit The Amalfi Coast is in July, with an average of 5 days of rainfall from previous years.

Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Below is our Amalfi Coast itinerary which we feel covers some of the most popular destinations which you can visit in a short space of time.

Although we aim to make this feasible, it’s worth noting that this itinerary isn’t extreme on-time efficiency – meaning there will be a few hours free here and there. This leaves time for you to ‘get lost’ on the Amalfi Coast.

On our first day on the Amalfi Coast, we’ll spend relaxing and taking in the picturesque views, at a very slow and comfortable pace.

First, we’ll head to the stunning town of Positano, where you can walk around the steep inclines and take in the coastline panoramas.

If you can’t wait to get into the ocean, from Positano, you can enjoy a day trip by boat and marvel at the coastal area of Sorrentine peninsula.

There are a couple of nice beaches, such as Positano Beach as well as Fornillo Beach which you can relax on and take in the Mediterranean Sun.

We highly recommend you plan to check out the serene spots near Le Sirenuse Hotel for some of the best panoramic views in Positano.

To end your perfect day, why not enjoy a beach-side dinner here at one of a range of many restaurants lining the coastal town?

Today we’ll pick up the pace and wake up early. We’ll head back to Positano (if you’re not staying here) and begin the Path of Gods Hike.

Depending on the time of year, it can get very hot so make sure to wear comfortable clothing, and to stock up on lots of water beforehand.

The trail ends in Bomerano, a small town in the mountains. Here you can catch a ride back to where you’re staying, and have dinner. The rest of the night is then yours to enjoy as you wish.

Our third day will be used to explore Amalfi, which can be reached easily by bus or by driving.

The Museum of Paper is another interesting site to see here, which is situated in a small cave-style grotto.

After having lunch, head up to Torre dello Ziro , which is a watchtower with some seriously impressive views.

Our last day is a lot freer, and really depends on what you want to do! We recommend visiting Furore beach, which is one of the most stunning in the region with its dramatic setting between two steep cliffs.

You can head up to Naples and explore the city with ease and even get a Naples 3-Day Pass which includes the use of public transport around the city and access to 3 attractions of your choice.

Another popular option is to go to the markets or explore the ancient site of Herculaneum which was famously buried during the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79.

Then we’ll head back to your apartment to gather your luggage, and then head off to the airport to catch your flight.

Things to Do in The Amalfi Coast

Knowing how to spend your time and deciding what to do on the Amalfi Coast can be tricky when you have so little time.

See some of the most popular destinations below:

A UNESCO Heritage Site, Amalfi was a very important historical site, and once the capital of the Duchy of Amalfi, which is one of the biggest trading powers of the Mediterranean between the 9th and 13th Centuries.

This town is great for getting to know the history of the Amalfi Coast. For a fabulous stay in Amalfi with 360° views of the Amalfi Coast, check out the Hotel Luna Convento , a former 13th-century convent converted into a hotel, situated only a short 3 minutes walk away from the beach.

The stunning Amalfi Cathedral is one of the highlights, with a variety of architectural styles being implemented from Arab-Norman to Gothic and Renaissance.

Positano is the ultimate destination to visit along The Amalfi Coast. With this beautiful fishing village climbing steeply up into the surrounding mountains, it’s one of the best photo spots in all of Italy, and perhaps Southern Europe. A stay at the Marincanto hotel is an absolute must!

Some of the best things to do here include a visit to the Santa Maria Assunta Church, and relaxing on the Fornillo and Positano beaches.

Not to mention, hiking to the epic view spot of the Amalfi Drive – which features the winding bridge road slipping into a mountain with the blue hues of the Mediterranean setting the backdrop.

The Path of Gods

For those who love getting outdoors, then this hike is something you’ll need to add to your itinerary when in The Amalfi Coast.

For beginner hikers, take the Path of the Gods Hike guided tour to see magnificent views and across the Amalfi coast.

Roughly 7.5km long, here you’ll begin in Positano and make your way east across sprawling hills and some sets of steep stairs. The trail ends in Bomerano, which is a small town in the mountains.

During this hike, you’ll get unrivaled views of the coastline, and there are also lots of small gems worth visiting along the route, such as local vineyards as well as the cute town of Nocello.

Furore Beach

Of course, as located along the Mediterranean, many come to The Amalfi Coast to enjoy the sun and to spend a few days relaxing by the waves.

To get here, you’ll need to walk down a series of steps from the town of Furore that’s located above the mountains.

You can also take a boat here from one of the numerous towns scattered along the Amalfi Coast.

Amalfi Coast Itinerary Map

Below we’ll share a map for this 4 days in Amalfi Coast itinerary:

The Amalfi Coast Travel Tips

The travel tips below will help you make the most out of your trip.

• The best time to visit The Amalfi Coast is during the Summer, and in particular July which promises both hot temperatures as well as the least rainfall of any month of the year.
• Remember to get your FREE travel insurance quote from SafetyWing to receive fully comprehensive support when it comes to unforeseen travel complications.
• If you find yourself backpacking Italy, or perhaps you’re traveling on a more modest budget… why not check out one of the Top Rated Hostels here to save those hard-earned Euros for other activities?
• You can stay at many of the picturesque towns along the Amalfi Coast, however, we recommend Positano, both for its beautiful landscapes and ease of getting around.
• One of our best tips is booking your accommodation well in advance, as this region can be very popular which drives up prices closer to the time of your visit.
• Make use of public transport, which not only is cheap, however, is also a lot safer as a lot of the roads are situated on steep mountain edges as well as having immediate bends.

4 Days on the Amalfi Coast: Final Words

On the whole, you should now have a decent amount of ideas and know exactly how to spend a few days on the Amalfi coast whilst making the most of your time.

Book your trip today! Also, follow our sustainable travel tips if you’re not familiar with them, and of course, be sure to pack extra sunscreen!

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A Blissful 4 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary – Sun, Sea & Scenery

• Isabelle Hoyne
• January 10, 2024

** Disclosure: some of the links on this site are affiliate links and should you make a purchase through these, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!**

Drawing upon years of personal exploration and extensive research, I’ve curated an immersive 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary that encapsulates the region’s best. Experience the dazzling cliff-lined coast, azure waters and enchanting villages, visiting iconic spots and hidden treasures alike. Embark on an unforgettable Amalfi journey!

I’ve been visiting the Amalfi Coast since childhood, and no visit has ever disappointed.

Stretching for 30 miles from Sorrento to Amalfi, the Amalfi Coast is characterised by high cliffs, winding roads and colourful villages that seem to sprout from the rock. So special is this entire stretch of coastline, that it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Awarded to locations with outstanding physical or cultural significance, the Amalfi Coast received its UNESCO listing in 1997 for both its physical beauty and the important role it played in maritime history.

While its dramatic landscape has long been a popular destination for tourists, its UNESCO listing has helped to ensure that this natural beauty will be preserved for future generations to come.

In addition to its inclusion for what are obvious physical charms, the Amalfi Coast also has a rich cultural history. The town of Amalfi was a powerful maritime republic in the 1st-4th centuries, and its influence was felt throughout the Orient and the West.

Positano and Ravello, too, have interesting histories that are explored further in this post. 

The various civilizations that have occupied the Amalfi Coast over the centuries have left their mark on both its architecture and cuisine.

While the region has largely come to be associated with glamour and high prices, it is in fact an enjoyable destination for travellers who appreciate both natural beauty and historic significance.

The most famous town on the Amalfi Coast is probably the now-glitzy Positano, but truthfully, it is just one of many other charming outposts along this stupendously beautiful stretch of coast, with elegant hilltop towns like Ravello and lesser-known villages such as Minori well worth paying a visit to also.

4 days in the Amalfi Coast will allow you some time to fall totally under the spell of its charms. If you’ve got a week, then you have a perfect opportunity to append a couple of days in Naples , Southern Italy’s vastly overlooked capital city that is swimming in culture and peeling grandeur.

Having spent a significant part of my life journeying through this picturesque region and supplementing these experiences with extensive research, I’ve curated this Amalfi Coast 4-day itinerary to reflect the region’s true essence.

From iconic landscapes to hidden culinary delights, my personal insights will help you navigate the alluring paths of the Amalfi Coast like a seasoned explorer.

Essential links for booking your Amalfi Coast trip

Book your airport transfer with Welcome Pickups Search schedules and buy ferry tickets here . Top rated Amalfi Coast experiences ☆ Pompeii small-group tour with an archaeologist (Cultured Voyages top pick) ☆ Amalfi Coast Boat Rental (for a truly memorable day out) ☆  Scooter rental on the Amalfi Coast (make getting around a cinch) ☆  Walk, Cook & Eat on Amalfi Coast (great for foodies) ☆  Carmine’s Amalfi Coast SECRET Tour (discover hidden gems) Top places to stay on Amalfi Coast: Hotel Conca d’Oro (boutique beauty in Positano) // Orto Paradiso (affordable hidden gem with pool) // Gala Residence Villa Giovanna (a slick Ravello B&B) Incredible Amalfi Coast vacation rentals: Citrus & Sea Salt // I’m All Aglow // Amalfi Postcard Don’t forget to pack :  //  DK Eyewitness Naples and the Amalfi Coast (Travel Guide)  // The Talented Mr Ripley //  Universal travel adapter  //  these **fantastic** compression packing cubes // Bite & itch relief pen (for those pesky mosquito bites)

Table of Contents

Planning your amalfi coast 4 day itinerary, 4 days in amalfi coast: where to base yourself, 4 day amalfi coast itinerary, 4 days amalfi coast itinerary map, where to go if you have more than 4 days, amalfi coast travel tips.

This post will take you through logistical matters, such as getting to and around the Amalfi Coast, as well as through a carefully planned itinerary that shows you all sides of the Amalfi Coast and maximises your time in each place over a four-day period.

Once you are armed with all the relevant facts and things you need to know, you will be more than well-positioned to have an incredible time in this dazzling region.

Are 4 days enough for the Amalfi Coast?

4 days are enough for the Amalfi Coast if you are organised and have a good plan in place. There’s so much to see and do in this stunning region, so it’s important to prioritise what you want to experience the most. With a little bit of planning, you can easily see plenty of highlights when you have four days to play with.

You’ll also, more than likely, be desperately keen to come back and discover more. If you need help with that, I have written this 10-day Amalfi Coast itinerary to aid in your travel planning.

Best time to visit the Amalfi Coast

The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is from April to October when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, keep in mind that the busiest times are from June to August. September and October are both great months to visit as there are fewer people and the weather is still warm enough to sunbathe.

In terms of personal preference, I tend to plan any Amalfi Coast travel plans in September. By October, things may start to wind down on the Amalfi Coast, with the likes of beach clubs closing for the season in October, so if this is important to you then September is the month to choose.

How to get to the Amalfi Coast

You will likely access the Amalfi Coast via Naples , from either its airport or the train station. From Naples, you then have a number of choices.

Getting to the Amalfi Coast by car

The fastest way of getting to the Amalfi Coast from Naples is by car. As I don’t recommend driving on the Amalfi Coast where you can help it, your next best option is to hire a private transfer, which although pricey, can be incredibly worth it when you only have 4 days for your Amalfi Coast trip.

BOOK | Book your Naples to Amalfi Coast transfer here

Getting to the Amalfi Coast by train

You will not be able to get the whole way to Positano from Naples by train. You must first get the train as far as Sorrento, where you will then terminate. From Sorrento, you have one of several options to reach Positano.

First is by vehicle – either by private transport (book one here) or by Sita bus, which runs frequently.

Secondly, in the summer months, you can also travel to Positano from Sorrento by ferry, although this is only run seasonally and is nowhere near as regular as the Sita bus.

That only gets you part of the way and you will then need to make your way to Positano and then switch trains there for the final leg of your journey.

BOOK | Search train timetables and buy tickets here

Getting to the Amalfi Coast by ferry

My favourite way to get around the Amalfi Coast is by ferry and it’s possible, at the right time of year, to make the entire journey from Naples to Positano (and subsequent towns along the coastline) by ferry.

These, however, are only run in the summer season and the times may not suit you. If this is the case, opt for a private transfer or the train and bus/taxi option. You can check schedules here in advance before making a decision, however.

BOOK | Search timetables and buy ferry tickets here

How to get around the Amalfi Coast

There are three main ways that I would recommend getting around the Amalfi Coast:

1. Getting around the Amalfi Coast by bus

The SITA bus is probably the most common way to get around the Amalfi Coast, connecting all of the towns on the coast.

Tickets can be bought from local shops, and schedules can be found online. However, due to the nature of the traffic on the Amalfi Coast, buses may arrive late or not at all when expected – you’ve been warned!

2. Getting around the Amalfi Coast by ferry

Ferries are a great way to get around the Amalfi Coast, as they offer spectacular views of the coastline and journey times are drastically cut due to there being no traffic jams involved!

You can purchase your tickets in advance or at the ferry, but it’s a good idea to purchase them in advance during the busy summer months.

BOOK | Check ferry schedules and book tickets in advance here

3. Getting around the Amalfi Coast by scooter

If you have the confidence and/or experience to drive one, another wonderful way to get around the Amalfi Coast is by scooter, as it offers flexibility and you can easily navigate the narrow roads.

BOOK | You can book a scooter here .

What about getting around by car?

The narrow roads and dense traffic on the Amalfi Coast make driving a car a bad idea. I have visited with a car, and without, and I can say without hesitation that getting around by car is not enjoyable if you are the driver (or even the passenger, it’s quite the white-knuckle experience).

Furthermore, parking is very scarce and expensive so it really isn’t worth the hassle if you ask me.

READ NEXT | 19 Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Naples, Italy

When planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is where to base yourself. There are many towns and villages to choose from, each with its own unique charms and advantages.

This Amalfi Coast 4 day itinerary places you in Positano for 2 nights, Minori for 1 night and Ravello for 1 night, but if you want to stick to one base only, below is a brief synopsis of some towns that might suit you, based on your specific needs and circumstances.

• Most romantic – Ravello | This stunning cliffside village is the perfect place for a romantic getaway. With its breathtaking views, elegant villas and lush gardens, Ravello will knock your socks off with its beauty.
• Most central – Amalfi | The historic town of Amalfi is the most central location on the Amalfi Coast. It’s easy to get around and there are plenty of buses and ferries that transit through the town. Plus, it doesn’t lack attractions: here you can find churches, museums, art galleries and other interesting sites.
• Most glamorous – Positano | Positano is the celebrity hotspot of the Amalfi Coast. Just be prepared for crowds, steep streets and pricey restaurants. But if you’re looking for somewhere glamorous to spend your vacation, that’s where you need to be!
• Most beachy – Maiori | If you’re all about getting away from the hustle and bustle of the larger towns, Maiori is a great option. With its long beach promenade, lovely beaches, and relaxed atmosphere, this small coastal town is perfect for those looking to spend their days soaking up some sun.
• Most local – Minori | Minori is a great place to get away from it all and discover the true essence of the Amalfi Coast. The town is off the beaten path, and it’s a perfect spot for getting to know the locals and savouring delicious regional cuisine.

Looking for a vacation rental in the Amalfi Coast?

Plum Guide (my favourite rental platform) offers a superb, curated collection of vacation rentals along the Amalfi Coast, suitable for a range of party sizes.

In this next section, discover how to uncover the best of the Amalfi Coast in 4 days. This itinerary will take you to some of the most beautiful towns and villages on the coast, including Positano, Capri, Minori and Ravello.

You’ll experience everything from stunning cliffside views to elegant villas to sandy beaches. Let’s jump in!

Amalfi Coast in 4 days: Day 1 – Positano

Positano is one of the best-known towns on the Amalfi Coast, and for good reason. It’s located in a beautiful setting between the mountains and the sea, with dramatic views from almost every angle. The town is also home to some lovely churches, art galleries, and other attractions.

The cobbled lanes and hidden alleyways of Positano are a delight to explore, always providing new glimpses of the picturesque townscape. The vibrant bougainvillea, unique architecture, and tempting storefronts are all make a lovely feast for the eyes.

If you can nab somewhere with a view, watching the sun set over the Mediterranean from one’s own private terrace is a perfect way to end an afternoon of exploration in this special place.

A brief history of Positano

Positano is an ancient town with a long and storied history. The Greek God of the Sea, Poseidon, is said to have founded the town in honour of Pasitea, a beautiful Greek Nymph that he was enamoured with.

It is believed that Greeks ships first called on this small town and other parts of the Amalfi Coast as far back as 500 BC.

When their time came, the Romans found Positano’s beauty irresistible, and so they built lavish villas and began settling there around 100 years B.C. However, their settlement was destroyed in 79 A.D., when nearby Mount Vesuvius erupted.

Positano thrived as a market port from the 15th through 17th centuries due to its affiliation with the Amalfi Republic. However, Positano fell on hard times in the mid 1800s, leading more than half of its population to immigrate to America–most notably to New York City.

Positano was a poor little fishing village by the first half of the 20th century. But then, in the early 1950s, artists began to visit. In 1953, John Steinbeck wrote his now-famous article for Harper’s Bazaar magazine titled “Positano Bites Deep.”

Positano’s popularity as a top vacation destination skyrocketed from that point on, increasing decade upon decade to reach the popularity that it now has today.

What to do in Positano

There are several ways in which you can spend your day in Positano and you’ll likely have to pick just one or two of these options with only a day to spend.

Lounge on the beach | There are two main beaches in Positano – Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo. Both offer stunning views of the coastline, crystal clear waters, and plenty of sunbathing spots.

Explore the streets and shops | If you’d rather stay away from the beach, spend your day exploring Positano’s narrow streets and boutique shops. Here you can find handmade leather goods, pottery and ceramics, local jewellery, and other souvenirs to take home with you.

Historic sites | Positano is home to some notable historic sites, including the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and its beautiful mosaics.

Of particular note, don’t miss the chance to explore the Roman Villa, buried during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79AD and which was discovered under the crypt of the church. Tickets cost €15 and it’s best to book in advance.

Path of the Gods hike | For those looking for a bit of an adventure, the Path of the Gods hike is a must-do. This stunning trek will take you along cliffside trails with breathtaking views. It’s best to start early from Nocelle and bring plenty of water and snacks.

Celeb spot at Da Adolfo | Make your way towards the port and look for a boat with a red fish nailed onto the mast – this is your free shuttle to Da Adolfo, a small but legendary restaurant and beach club located in a little cove.

Make sure to book in advance to reserve your table and your sunbed on the beach.

Foodie gems in Positano

For the foodies among you, Positano is home to some of the best restaurants on the Amalfi Coast. I recommend starting your evening with aperitivo at The Terrace Bar before moving on to dinner at Zass Restaurant at Il San Pietro di Positano for Michelin-starred dining.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a place with more moderate prices, try Bruno instead. This casual and buzzy spot offers fabulous views of the Amalfi Coast and great food to match! Make sure to book ahead and ask for a table with a view.

If you’re still feeling lively after your meal, cap your evening off with a nighttime stroll through Positano and a post-dinner drink at the stylish Franco’s Bar , located at Le Sirenuse.

Where to stay in Positano

HIGH END LUXURY

Il San Pietro di Positano

Il San Pietro di Positano holds itself in lofty company, as it is often listed among the best hotels in the world.

With such accolades come a hefty price tag, but Il San Pietro offers a Michelin-starred restaurant (Zass), a cliff-side elevator down to a private beach, exceptional views and a little bit of peace and quiet in what is an otherwise teeming location.

Boutique bolthole

Hotel Conca d’Oro

With beautiful views of the shimmering blue sea and coastline, Hotel Conca d’Oro is a wonderful option. There is a panoramic terrace with a hot tub, complete with sun loungers and parasols and meals are served by candlelight on the sea-view terrace. There is a small beach 500m away too.

Affordable luxury

Hotel Casa Albertina

If you’re searching for exceptional views without an exorbitant price tag, then take a look at Hotel Casa Albertina .

Located a mere 10-minute walk from a sandy beach in Positano, Hotel Casa Albertina features a terrace with views of the sea and a bar and charming traditional Amalfi Coast decor.

Luxe Vacation rental

Perfect for two people, Blue Roses is a luxe apartment rental in Positano, with a fantastic sun terrace complete with loungers and endless views of the blue, blue sea.

Interiors follow a gorgeous blue and white colour scheme and location-wise, a host of cafés and restaurants are on your doorstep.

Amalfi Coast in 4 days: Day 2 – Capri

The magical isle of Capri draws one in like an irresistibly sweet siren – indeed, it is at Capri that the sirens called to Ulysses’ sailors in Homer’s Odyssey . The azure waters, the jagged rocks and the lush greenery all combine to create a landscape of unparalleled beauty.

Capri has been pulling in the rich and famous for centuries, dating way back to the notorious Roman Emperor Tiberius, who holed himself up on the island, built several palaces and got up to all manner of misdeeds in the 1st century AD.

Whether it’s the history, the natural beauty, or the glamour of Capri that attracts you, I suggest that you include the island in your 4 days on the Amalfi Coast – so you are off on a day trip to Capri !

Sadly, you can expect Capri to be heavily visited – and that goes for pretty much all year round – but no matter how crowded it may be, put up with a little bit of elbowing and allow the island to work its magic on you.

Take in the fresh sea air, explore the winding alleyways and get ready to be amazed by the sights.

My best advice to enjoy Capri is one of two things; the first is to ensconce yourself in a luxury crash-pad during the day and wait for the day-trippers to dissipate come evening time.

Since you are one of those day-trippers in this instance, then my second piece of advice is to take yourself as far away as possible from those other day-trippers once you get there.

Despite Capri being relatively small, it’s amazing to what degree people deem to converge on Capri town’s main Piazzetta and the areas surrounding it – walk away from here and the crowds will start to vanish.

RELATED READING | Escape to Paradise: The Insider’s Guide to Visiting Capri

What to do on Capri

You’ll have to pick and choose only a couple of things to see and do in Capri in one day, but here are some of my suggestions:

Villa Jovis | Pay a visit to Emperor Tiberius’ former palace – a magnificent complex perched atop the cliffs and filled with ruins of what was once an opulent retreat. It’s amazing to think this palace has been standing since 27 AD, and it is definitely worth a visit if you are interested in Roman history.

Villa Lysis | The former home of the Parisian count Jacques d’Adelswärd Fersen, a Parisian count who fled to Capri to escape scandal, Villa Lysis is an unexpected surprise. Built in 1904, the villa was a gathering place for artists and intellectuals who were drawn to its beauty.

Gardens of Augustus and Via Krupp | The Gardens of Augustus are comprised of a series of panoramic flower-decked terraces overlooking the Faraglioni on one side and the Bay of Marina Piccola and Via Krupp on the other.

Mont Solaro | The highest and most panoramic point on the island, it offers an unrivalled view across the whole of Capri and further afield. The easiest way to get there is by taking the chairlift from Piazza Vittoria in Anacapri, which takes just 12 minutes.

Alternatively, if you fancy a bit of exercise then you can walk up to the summit in between an hour and an hour and a half.

Villa Michele | This lovely villa was built by the Swedish doctor Axel Munthe in 1885 on the ruins of an ancient chapel dedicated to St. Michele. The building is articulated onto various levels and the gardens and terrace with all their romantic columns offer incredible views of the expanse of blue waters below.

Take a boat tour | For the true essence of Capri, you can’t beat a boat tour. Head down to Marina Piccola, where you can join a budget-friendly group tour like this one . Alternatively, hire a private boat – this private boat tour has a host of wonderful reviews.

That way, you’ll have the flexibility of setting the agenda for the day, can stop off for swims and you’ll have a knowledgeable guide and photographer on hand! Stops to include are the famous Blue Grotto and the Faraglioni Rocks.

Visit a beach club | While away some hours at the Insta-famous La Fontelina, with its iconic blue and white striped deck chairs. If you’d prefer something a little more authentic, then try Bagni Tinerio, which has a sandy beach. For ultimate luxury, head to Il Riccio Beach Club in Anacapri.

RELATED READING | Capri or Ischia: Which Island Paradise Should You Choose?

Getting to Capri from Positano

Getting from Positano to Capri is easy – simple take the direct ferry from Positano to Capri. During the high season, make sure to check schedules and reserve in advance – you can do so here . The fast ferry will take you to Capri in just under one hour and the price is around €20 each way.

Make sure to book your return ferry to Positano and be at the port in Capri with time to spare when it’s time to return to Positano.

Foodie gems in Capri

La Capannina is a 1930s trattoria, located under an archway in Capri town and offering regional dishes. They catered extremely well for my gluten free requirements and offered a very professional service.

If you’d prefer something more low-key, head to Lo Sfizio , located on Via Tiberio, for some delicious Italian cooking.

Where to stay for night 2 of this 4 days Amalfi Coast itinerary

On night two of this 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary, I recommend that you overnight once more in Positano , before making your way to Minori the following morning by ferry.

Amalfi Coast in 4 days: Day 3 – Minori

Minori is an unfettered gem amongst the other towns of the Amalfi Coast, offering rustic beauty, charm and a sense of undisturbed peace to those who visit.

In comparison to its livelier neighbours, Minori offers a break from the hustle and bustle that can be so overwhelming along the Amalfi Coast and I’ve spent several happy, super-relaxed days in Minori ambling from pool to trattoria, beach to quiet piazza.

It’s for that very reason that I’ve included it on the roster for your 4 days in Amalfi Coast.

Despite being so close to the likes of Amalfi town, it is far less frequented by non-Italian tourists and offers a glimpse into what the Amalfi Coast might have been like a few decades ago, when its most popular towns were free of the masses they experience today.

At its centre, the ruins of a Roman villa offer an intriguing insight into the past, while a nice smattering of trattoria and local stores provide all you need for your visit.

Plus, regular ferries from the small harbour make it fantastically located for exploring the rest of Amalfi Coast and also serve to add to this sleepy town’s charm.

In short, Minori is a place that offers peace and authenticity, with its own unique brand of Italian culture and hospitality. As such, it’s a wonderful option if you’re looking for more than just the typical Amalfi tourist experience.

Ultimately, your third day here will be one to remember as you enjoy all that Minori has to offer: gorgeous scenery, excellent food and a laid-back atmosphere of calm.

Things to do in Minori

I wouldn’t recommend doing a whole lot while in Minori, but should you wish to go for a ramble then the following may pique your interest:

Spend time at the small beach and lido | Minori beach is a lovely place to relax for a few hours. About 250m long, there are three lidos in the middle where you can rent sun beds for the day, or alternatively there are free spots on either side of the lido.

Facing south, the beach of Minori gets the sun for most of the day and is really close to the shops and restaurants of Minori town, so you can come and go easily.

Visit the Roman villa ruins | At the heart of the town are the remains of the Villa Romana, a Roman villa that succumbed to the eruption of Vesuvius in 79AD and was buried beneath the town of Minori for many centuries until it was discovered in 1932.

There is a small museum and visitors are free to walk through its underground chambers, which retain some exceptionally well preserved frescoes.

Fill up on local pasta dishes | Of course, no visit to Minori would be complete without trying scialatielli – the local pasta dish. Thick ribbons of dough are flavoured with seafood or sauces, making it an ideal order if you’re looking for some good old fashioned Italian comfort food.

Explore by water or foot | If you’d like to explore the area on foot, then the Sentiero dei Limoni , or “Lemon Walk”, is a great option. This short hike takes you through dozens of lemon groves and offers some stunning views of the Amalfi Coast before ending in Maiori – all within an hour if you include a few stops to take in the view.

You could also opt to hop on the ferry for a spin over to Amalfi – it’s only around 15 minutes’ away and very doable in a couple of hours.

Enjoy the scenery and hospitality of Minori | Above all, don’t forget to take some time and simply enjoy the scenery and hospitality of Minori. This is a wonderful spot for people watching as it offers a glimpse into local life amidst stunning views and delicious food.

Relax in one of its many cafés, perhaps with an Aperol Spritz in hand – after all, you deserve it!

How to get from Positano to Minori

It’s possible to reach Minori from Positano by one of three ways; by taxi, by Sita bus or by ferry. You know which option I’m going to suggest here.

If you’re travelling between April and October, take the ferry from the port at Positano, from which the journey will take a bit over an hour and will take in some beautiful snippets of the coastline along the way.

Whatever about it being the most convenient way, I’d recommend this method for the views alone!

Foodie gems in Minori

Try the long-standing Giardiniello , with a plant-filled, covered terrace, for a more upscale, artfully plated meal and some pretty great pizza too.

La Botte is a complete gem, authentic and quaint with local dishes and mouth-watering pizzas at extremely reasonable prices.

Should you be a fan of pastries, then Minori just happens to be home to the Amalfi Coast’s most famous pastry chef – head to Salvatore De Riso’s pastry shop to stock up.

Where to stay in Minori

Luxe for less

Orto Paradiso

I stayed at this beautiful bed and breakfast in Minori and it is a true gem. Set amidst terraces and gardens and owned by an artist, this truly aesthetic property comes kitted out with a lovely pool for lounging by and some insanely divine views of the town of Minori below.

Note that it’s a little tricky to get too, but if you don’t mind some steps then the climb is worth the views.

Seaside charm

Palazzo Vingius

Located a mere 50 steps away from the beach of Minori, this dreamy respite offers rooms with terracotta floors and Vietri handmade ceramics, along with some beautiful sea views.

Rise awake each morning to a breakfast of freshly-baked croissants, cappuccino coffee and jams served up in a panoramic breakfast room complete with a bar.

Boutique beauty

Minori Palace

This elegant and reasonably priced hotel is located in the heart of Minori town and is a straight walk down the street to the beach. If sand isn’t really your thing, it also has what so few accommodations in Minori do – a pool, fringed by sun loungers that are perfect for spending lazy afternoons on.

Amalfi Coast in 4 days: Day 4 – Ravello

Ravello oozes with a quiet, dignified sophistication that the nearby towns of the Amalfi Coast (such as Amalfi and Positano) find out of their reach.

While you may have to deal with a busy town centre during the day, that is easily remedied by choosing some sublime Ravello lodging that offers access to those impeccable views on tap while the day trippers are in town, before emerging to find the town very much your own in the latter part of the day.

The views from Ravello are positively breathtaking and unparalleled anywhere else on the coast. What makes Ravello so special is its unique mix of attributes that cannot be found elsewhere.

From the mountaintop position that offers sweeping views, to the charming and picturesque streets, Ravello is a must-see destination for any visitor to the Amalfi Coast.

A brief history of Ravello

The hilltop hamlet of Ravello owes its prosperity to the Duchy of Amalfi, where it found success along with the Maritime Republic of Amalfi in the 10th century and onwards.

Trade with North Arab Africa and the Byzantine Empire stimulated Ravello’s growth, as the town prospered from the gold acquired through trade with Arab centres along the African coast, and the luxury goods and fabrics obtained from Byzantium.

Reflecting back on the history of Ravello, it is fascinating to see how it flourished during the Middle Ages. This was a time when multiple civil and religious buildings were built in Arab-Sicilian style, and when wealthy, patriarchal families began to build sumptuous dwellings such as the 13th century Villa Rufolo in the town.

However, as with all things, this period of prosperity was not to last. The town declined in the 14th century, and it wasn’t until the 17th century that the plague decimated its population. This left the glory days of Ravello as mere whispers of memory.

Things to do in Ravello

You can get the full run down on what to do in Ravello here , but some things to do include:

Visit Villa Cimbrone | Visit these stunning gardens appended to an elegant 11th century manor for some of the best views in the world (a big statement, I know).

Make your way to the famous Infinity Terrace ( Terrazze dell’Infinito ), known also as the Belvedere) for prime viewing. If you can, visit at sunset for an otherworldly experience.

Visit Villa Rufolo | Located just off Ravello’s town square, Piazza Vescovado, Villa Rufolo is a regal, patrician villa which was originally built in the 13th century. The villa is home to some beautiful gardens – so beautiful, in fact, that they inspired Wagner when writing Parsifal.

Discover churches | Ravello is home to a number of churches, it’s best known and visible being the Duomo in the town’s main square. Like the majority of Italian churches, each have something worth peeping in to look at, including frescoes, altarpieces and mosaics.

Go shopping | The main streets of Ravello are home to a variety of charming shops and boutiques, selling everything from ceramics to cashmere. The stores here are less touristy than in some of the neighboring towns, making it a great place to find quality ceramics and clothing.

Take a hike | A nice walk to take is from Ravello to Amalfi, which is around 4km away. You can reach Amalfi via pedestrian pathways via Atrani and take the bus back to Ravello. Another beautiful walk is the Minori-Ravello section of the Lemon Walk that runs to Maoiri.

Listen to some music | Ravello is famous as a musical centre, each year hosting the Ravello Music Festival in July and August.

There is a suspended stage erected in the gardens of Villa Rufolo and many famous artists perform. Ravello is also home to the Auditorium Oscar Niemeyer, at which performances are hosted throughout the year.

How to get to Ravello from Minori

As Ravello is located inland, you will need to go by vehicle from Minori. It’s easiest to take a taxi (which despite the short trip of around 10 minutes costs around €60) or alternatively, you can take a Sita bus to Amalfi and then from there, hop on another bus for the short journey to Ravello.

Foodie gems in Ravello

Rosellini’s is a stunning Michelin starred restaurant set in Palazzo Avino hotel. Here you’ll find regional cuisine with a creative twist that will definitely tantalise your taste buds – l adored our meal here.

Da Salvatore has a terrace providing unparalleled views and the menu boasts high quality and creative dishes, with the wood-fired pizza oven being a central feature of the restaurant space.

Vittoria is a family-run, traditional restaurant. Delicious seafood pasta can be found here, as well as pizza.

Where to stay in Ravello

As Ravello is located so close to Minori, you could opt to stay another night in Minori and make your way to Ravello for the day or vice versa; choose Ravello if you want a romantic escape and Minori if you are a little more budget-conscious.

High-end luxury

Palazzo Avino

Known to locals as the ‘Pink Palace’, this beautiful hotel at the highest point of Ravello offers unbelievable views of the sea far, far below (and has access to it’s own private beach).

It’s also home to the stupendous Rossellini’s Restaurant , which it’s safe to say, probably offers some of the best views in the world.

Villa Piedimonte

The four star hotel Villa Piedimonte offers pared back elegance and bright, spacious rooms, the majority of which come with sea views – some come with their own terraces, too.

There is a pool onsite with plenty of sun loungers, which makes this hotel the perfect place to enjoy both some R&R and the charms of Ravello town.

Gala Residence Villa Giovanna

A beautifully stylish boutique bed and breakfast, Gala Residence Villa Giovanna is a wonderful choice for Ravello. While there is no pool onsite, the views from this property are simply outstanding and there is a large terrace on which you can enjoy your surroundings.

Some of the slick, nautically themed rooms also come with a terrace of their own.

So you can see this proposed itinerary in context, take a look at the map below, which marks each spot and shows the route between each.

In an attempt to bring balance between some of the Amalfi Coast’s iconic spots along with some of the more authentic, there are some places that have been left off this Amalfi Coast 4 day itinerary in the interests of time.

Some other places (in alphabetical order) that you can consider subbing in include the following:

Amalfi | The beach-filled epicentre of the Amalfi Coast and its most-famous town after Positano.

Atrani | A picturesque fishing village to the east of Amalfi and the west of Minori.

Cetara | A lively seaside village known for its anchovy-based cuisine.

Erchie | A small fishing village on the Salerno side of the Amalfi Coast and home to a picturesque beach.

Furore | A small town with an impressive ravine and a man-made bridge connecting the two sides.

Maiori | The pristine beach and lively town with a reputation for being family-friendly.

Praiano | A laid-back commune with a mix of delightful beaches, cliffside walks, and local restaurants.

Salerno | A charming city further south with a stunning Duomo and waterfront.

Sorrento | A lively city on the Sorrentine Peninsula known for its wonderful views and delicious food.

Vietri sul Mare | Famous for its colourful ceramics, Vietri sul Mare is a must-visit spot for anyone interested in traditional crafts.

READ NEXT | The Perfect 10 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary For A Luxurious But Authentic Trip

When traveling to the Amalfi Coast, there are certain things you should keep in mind and I will do my best to summarise some of the more pertinent ones here.

There’s more to the Amalfi Coast than Positano

The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful destination with plenty to offer tourists. However, many people only visit Positano and miss out on the other amazing towns and villages that make up this region.

Some of my favourite towns to visit on the Amalfi Coast for example are Ravello and Minori, with smaller places like Atrani and Furore being utterly charming too. Each town has its own unique charm, and all are well worth a visit.

So if you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, be sure to explore beyond Positano!

Sorrento and Capri are not the Amalfi Coast

Sorrento and Capri ( Ischia and Procida too) are not technically on the Amalfi Coast, so if you spend all your time in Sorrento, as gorgeous as it is then I hate to break it to you but you won’t “officially” have been to the Amalfi Coast – not that it really matters, as they are both well worth a visit in their own right.

Ferries are your friend

Ferries are a great way to get around the Amalfi Coast. They avoid the bad traffic and roads, which makes it a lot easier to get around. They also run regularly and connect all towns along the coast that have a harbour, all the way from Salerno to Naples.

Try not to drive

The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful destination with plenty to offer tourists, but I don’t recommend driving there. The roads are narrow and often congested, and the traffic is unpredictable – it’s just not worth the hassle.

There are much better ways to get around, like taking the ferries that run regularly along the coast. So if you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, I recommend avoiding the hassle of driving and instead use the many other transportation options available to you.

Accommodation books up so far in advance

If you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance. Many of the best places fill up months before people’s travel dates, so it’s important to reserve your spot as soon as possible.

There are plenty of great places to stay on the coast that can really make your trip fabulous, but they tend to get booked up quickly, so don’t wait too long!

Beware the stairs!

The Amalfi Coast is a stunning part of Italy , but it’s also quite hilly. This means that many of the towns and villages are perched on hills, with steep and uneven steps everywhere.

This can be a bit daunting for visitors who aren’t used to it, but it’s just something you have to deal with when travelling in this region.

Provided you don’t have mobility issues, then the upside to all the stairs is that they offer great exercise – something that’s definitely needed considering all the amazing food you’ll no doubt be eating while on holiday here!

Travelling to Naples & the Amalfi Coast? Posts to read next:

• Amalfi Coast
• 10 days on Amalfi Coast | The Perfect 10 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary For A Luxurious But Authentic Trip
• Ravello guide | Best things to do in Ravello – a complete Ravello Travel Guide
• Capri guide | Escape to Paradise: The Insider’s Guide to Visiting Capri
• Capri or Ischia | Which Island Paradise Should You Choose?
• Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast | A Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast Itinerary for Culture, Food & Scenery
• Florence, Rome, Amalfi Coast | A Sophisticated Florence, Rome & Amalfi Coast Itinerary
• Sorrento wine tours |   10 Best Sorrento Wine Tasting Tours & Experiences
• Naples travel tips | 19 Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Naples, Italy
• Is Naples worth visiting |  Is Naples Worth Visiting? 17 Pros + 5 Cons to Help You Decide
• Naples in 1 day | Best of Naples in One Day – What to See, Eat & Do
• Naples in 2 days | A Perfect 2 Days in Naples Itinerary for Culture & History Buffs
• Naples in 3 days | How to See Naples in 3 Days – Where to Go, Eat & Stay
• Naples accommodation | Secret Naples: Where to Stay in Naples Italy – Best Areas & Accommodations
• Things to do in Naples  |  40 Captivating Things to Do in Naples, Italy

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• Itineraries

Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

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The Perfect 4 day Amalfi Coast Itinerary

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The Amalfi Coast is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, and it’s easy to see why. With its dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and endlessly picturesque towns, the Amalfi Coast is a photographer’s dream come true. If you’re planning a trip to this gorgeous corner of the world, here’s the perfect 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary that will help you make the most of your time.

The Best 4 day Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline in southern Italy. With its cliffside towns, dramatic vistas, and turquoise waters, it’s no wonder that this UNESCO World Heritage site is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.

Here is a quick snapshot of the 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary,

• Day 1 of the Amalfi Coast itinerary 4 days : Arrive in Rome, explore the Pompeii archaeological site, and then stay overnight in Sorrento
• Day 2 of the Amalfi Coast itinerary 4 days: Explore and spend one day in Vietri Sul Mare (from Sorrento). Beachtime and sightseeing
• Day 3 of the Amalfi Coast itinerary 4 days: Visit Positano and Amalfi Town in one day (optional stay overnight in Amalfi Town)
• Day 4 of the Amalfi Coast itinerary 4 days: Exploring Ravello or Capri Town and Blue Grotto 

How to plan the perfect Amalfi Coast trip

Getting there : Public transportation, and road trip

The closest airport to the Amalfi Coast is Naples International Airport (NAP), which is about an hour’s drive away. 

Once you arrive in Naples, you can take a bus, or ferry to reach your final destination. 

There are several car rental companies located at the Naples airport, but we advise against renting a car unless you’re comfortable driving in southern Italy. 

The roads on the Amalfi Coast are very narrow, and parking can be difficult to find (and expensive!). 

We recommend taking a shared transfer or a bus when you’re staying overnight in Sorrento or Amalfi. 

You can book: Naples Airport to Sorrento or Amalfi Coast shared transfer

In the itinerary below, we will share sightseeing options from Rome, as Rome–Fiumicino International Airport – Leonardo da Vinci has better flight connections from North America (and that’s where we arrived when flying from Canada).

You may like this guided tour: 3-Day Tour to Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento & Capri from Rome

Best time to visit: 

The Amalfi Coast is beautiful any time of year, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for. 

If you want to avoid the crowds, shoulder season (April to May and September to October) is the best time to go. 

You’ll still be able to enjoy nice weather, and smaller crowds mean more opportunities to get that perfect photo without someone photobombing you! 

You’ll also find lower prices on hotels and airfare during these times.

If you don’t mind crowds and want to experience all the Amalfi Coast has to offer, then summer (June to August) is the time for you. 

This is when the Coast comes alive with festivals, outdoor concerts, and street markets. Just be prepared for higher prices and crowded beaches. 

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast?

There are countless hotels and Airbnbs along the Amalfi Coast, so finding accommodation that suits your needs shouldn’t be difficult. 

However, if you’re looking for a truly unique experience, we recommend staying in one of the cliffside towns like Ravello or Praiano. 

If you are on a budget then consider staying in Sorrento, and then taking the bus or public transportation to various towns. You will find a variety of accommodation options in Sorrento

We will share the top picks for staying on the Amalfi Coast below, 

• Elys Suites (Sorrento) : We love everything about Elys Suite. It is centrally located and each room has its own balcony and is spacious inside. The suites are clean, and very bright and airy. The hotel is located in the central part of the city, and from here you can easily get to sightseeing in Sorrento and beyond. Book your stay here
• Other places to stay in Sorrento:  Hotel Regina Sorrento (with a view) | Sorrento Pool&Suites (affordable) 
• Terrazza Duomo (Amalfi town) : This gorgeous hotel is located in Amalfi town, which is a great place to stay on the Coast for sightseeing, beaches, and accessibility to other destinations. From the name you might guess that it is close to the Amalfi Cathedral, and you are right – they also have rooms offering views of the piazza and the Duomo. Click to check availability here
• Rosa e Valen ti no (Ravello) : Located in the town of Ravello, this fuss-free hotel offers buffet breakfast along with a clean and comfortable stay. Rosa e Valentino also has a nice terrace where you can chill out. You can also rent bicycles and cars at the property. Check prices and book your stay here

Now, let’s go ahead with the Amalfi Coast 4 day itinerary in more detail.

Day 1 of the Amalfi Coast itinerary 4 days: Arrive in Rome, get to Pompeii and Naples

We recommend Sorrento as a base to make the most of your 4 days on the Amalfi Coast. 

After arriving in Rome, Italy, make your way to the south. 

If interested, this is the perfect opportunity to stop by Pompeii and Naples before checking into your Sorrento hotel. 

Getting to Sorrento: Trains from Rome to Sorrento via Napoli Centrale and Napoli P. Garibaldi take around 3.50 hours. Flixbus offers routes that take around 4.50+ hours, one way. 

• Rome to Pompeii is 240 km (149 miles) away. It will take about 2 hours to get to Pompeii via high-speed trains
• Pompeii to Sorrento train station is 30 km (18 miles) away. It will take about 30 minutes to arrive in Sorrento

Once you arrive in Pompeii, set aside 3 hours to explore the archeological site and grab lunch/food before starting for Sorrento. 

Pompeii is located about 242 km (150 miles) southeast of Rome, and there are several ways to get there. 

The easiest way is to take a train from Roma Termini station directly to Naples, and then get to the underground Circumvesuviana station to Pompeii. 

The journey takes about 2 hours, and tickets can be purchased at the train station or online here.

In Pompeii, you can join a guided tour of the site of Pompeii with an archaeologist . This is what we did, and it allowed us to explore the area and learn more about Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius and the events that took place that day. 

We do recommend buying your ticket online so that you can skip the line, and see everything that Pompeii has to offer in a relatively short amount of time. 

A visit to Pompeii will take anywhere from 2 – 4 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring each area. There are numerous homes, temples, public baths, and more to see. 

Be sure to visit the Civil Forum, which was the main square in Pompeii where people would gather to socialize and do business. Pompeii’s theatres and shops are hard to miss. 

When you join the tour you will learn about the civilized mode of living in Pompeii from trade to drainage systems and beyond.

Lastly, the view of Mount Vesuvius is one to behold and remember forever. Nowhere else in the world quite compares to Pompeii, so if you find yourself in Rome or Naples with some spare time on your hands, make sure you add it to your itinerary. It’ll definitely be worth it!

Plan to arrive in Sorrento by evening, and check in to your centrally located hotel like the Elys Suites . 

After that, head outside for a walk in the city centre and enjoy your dinner in Sorrento. 

Tip: You can skip Pompeii, and directly arrive in Sorrento and explore the city, and make arrangements for sightseeing on the Amalfi Coast.

Tours: You can visit Pompeii from Sorrento and back as well, on a day tour

Day 2 of the Amalfi Coast itinerary 4 days: Explore and spend one day in Vietri Sul Mare

Begin your sightseeing with Vietri Sul Mare!

Vietri Sul Mare is a beautiful, historic town located on the Amalfi Coast. While it may be best known for its stunning ceramic tiles, there is much more to explore in this quaint seaside town. 

Getting there from Sorrento:

The best way to get to Vietri Sul Mare from Sorrento is by train. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and the views of the coast are simply breathtaking. 

Keep in mind, that the only train station on Amalfi is located in Vietri Sul Mare. 

We set aside one full day here so that you can enjoy the beach, sunshine, and coast views. 

Once you arrive in Vietri Sul Mare, head to Spiaggia Della Crestarella – one of the cleanest and most well-known beaches on the Amalfi Coast. Rent a sunbed, soak up some sun, and enjoy the stunning views.

Another option is to walk the Marina Di Vietri, and take in the sunny vibes! 

After beach time, head into the center of town to explore the shops selling beautiful ceramic tiles as Vietri Sul Mare is famous for them. 

If interested you can also visit the Museo Della Ceramica Vietrese to learn more about ceramics and its history in the town. 

Be sure to also stop by the Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Giovanni Battista or the Cathedral of Vietri , one of the town’s architectural gems. 

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes serving up fresh, local seafood. 

Day 3 of the Amalfi Coast itinerary 4 days: Sorrento to Positano and Amalfi Town (optional stay overnight in Amalfi Town)

On day 3 of the Amalfi 4 day itinerary, check off the showstoppers of the coast – Positano and Amalfi town. You can get to either destination by ferry or bus. 

From Sorrento to Positano , ferries depart approximately every two hours and take about 40 minutes to get there. 

Buses take about 50 minutes, and a cab ride will get you there in 30.

The SITA bus stop in Amalfi town is located just by the main beach, and a short walk from there, you will arrive at the Terrazza Duomo to check in to your hotel and the Cathedral for sightseeing. 

You can stay in Sorrento as well for the entire duration of your trip and just spend the day here.  

Day tours: There are lots of day tours available from Sorrento to Amalfi and Positano, such as this one.

And another one that covers Ravello as well . It is worth booking a day tour when you are pressed for time and do not wish to navigate public transportation routes. However, if your plan is to relax at Fornillo Beach, then this will not work for you!

Once you arrive in Positano, spend the day exploring the winding streets of this picture-perfect village, and soak in the views of the stunning cliffside houses. 

In the first half of the day, you can relax at the beach or lace up and hike Sentiero Degli Dei (trail) from Agerola-Bomerano to Positano. 

Before you leave for Amalfi Town, spend time at the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta – one of Positano’s most iconic sights. This 13th-century church features a beautiful Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary, as well as an incredible dome. 

Best of all, admission is free! So be sure to take some time to admire this stunning piece of architecture.

Next, start for Amalfi town . Positano to Amalfi town is 40 and 55 minutes by car and bus respectively. 

Before you begin sightseeing, enjoy a nice lunch at the Amalfi Town centre, and then take the time to explore some really cute boutiques and souvenir shops. 

Marina Grande is a popular Michelin Star restaurant – perfect to hang out and take in beach views. 

The popular beach is not far away from the centre, in fact, Spiaggia Grande will welcome you as soon as you arrive in Amalfi Town. 

After lunch, you can enjoy a lovely stroll along the beach waterfront and then head to the Amalfi Duomo. 

Dating back to the 9th century, the Duomo will catch your attention. The exterior is stunning, with large arched windows and intricate mosaics adorning the facade. 

And then there’s the gorgeous staircase that leads to the Duomo entrance. The entry fee is 3 euros, and it is worth spending some time inside to admire the beautiful architecture.

After visiting Duomo di Amalfi, stop by the fountain of St Andrea, it is located in the same square as the cathedral and is hard to miss. 

If you have some time, you can visit the Amalfi Handmade Paper Museum, one of the popular museums in town. 

Before you depart from Amalfi, stop by Pasticceria Pansa for some coffee and cake. 

If you are staying in Amalfi town, we recommend some souvenir shopping and then dinner at La Paz. For dessert, grab the famous sfogliatelle from Pasticceria Pansa. 

Day 4 of the Amalfi Coast itinerary 4 days: Explore Ravello (and return to Rome)

On your last day on the Amalfi Coast, catch a bus to Ravello. Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone before enjoying a leisurely lunch overlooking the coast. 

In the afternoon, wander through Ravello’s pretty gardens before heading back to Sorrento for your last evening on the Amalfi Coast. 

SITA Sud buses depart from Amalfi to Ravello hourly. The journey takes 25 minutes.

In terms of getting around Ravello, there are two options: you can either walk or take a mini-bus. The mini-buses operate on a set route and will take you from the main square (Piazza Vescovado) to Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone, and back again. 

If you want to explore Ravello in more detail, then walking is definitely the best option. It’s also worth noting that there are a number of steps in Ravello, so comfortable shoes are a must! 

When in Ravello, your first stop should be Villa Rufolo. This villa was once owned by a wealthy Italian family, and it’s easy to see why they fell in love with the place. 

The gardens are simply gorgeous, and there are some fantastic views of the coastline from here.

Do wander through a 13th-century, square Moorish Tower, and visit the Cloister, known for a colonnade of pointed arches, which is a fine example of the Arabic-Sicilian style of the period.

There are plenty of great places to eat in Ravello, but we recommend grabbing a pizza or some fresh seafood with a view of the sea. 

After lunch, wander through Ravello’s lanes, and stop at the Convento di San Francesco, which is a 13th-century Franciscan monastery. The monastery has limited hours for visits.

If it’s closed, head to the Church of Saint Claire instead. This church is super close to Villa Cimbrone and is worth the walk. 

After visiting the church, it’s time to visit Villa Cimbrone. This villa is set on a cliff edge, and it has one of the most breathtaking views on the Amalfi Coast.

Explore the pergola-covered Viale dell’Immenso gardens and then head to the Belvedere.

The Belvedere or the Terrace of Infinity is lined with a series of marble busts. After soaking in the views from the terrace, take a walk through the Rose Gardens before calling it a day! 

Customizing this 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary

There are 13 towns and villages on the Amalfi Coast and it may not be possible to see it all intimately in 4 days. 

But here are some sightseeing tips to customize your Amalfi Coast itinerary. 

Spend one full day in Amalfi and another full day in Positano 

We have included Pompeii on day one of this itinerary, you can skip sightseeing at the archaeological site and utilize the day exploring Amalfi Town (full day), and use day 3 for a full day in Positano. 

We have a detailed one day in Amalfi town itinerary, and you can surely go exploring and laze by the beach. 

Spend one day on the Capri Island

Keeping days 2 to 4 as stated above, you can also swap Pompeii for the Capri Island day trip.  

The beautiful city of Capri on the Amalfi Coast is known for its iconic Blue Grotto. People from all over the world flock to the area to explore this unique place and be captivated by its breathtaking beauty. 

The only entrance to the Blue Grotto is a tiny hole – around three metres wide – and you will get an amazing opportunity of taking a guided tour inside these caves and enjoy the magical blue light that is reflected against the walls. 

There are lots of day trip excursions available from Sorrento or Amalfi towns to Capri – a boat tour is particularly epic! 

When staying in Sorrento, you can join this small group guided tour which includes a ferry ride to Capri – you will explore the island checking off the Natural Arch and the Faraglioni Rocks, and then visit the Blue Grotto.  

You will also get to enjoy a swim and go snorkeling. In the evening, the tour takes you back to Sorrento for dinner.

Other places to explore on the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento

If you have additional time on your hands, you can add the following spots to your Amalfi itinerary,

• The Path of the Gods Hike: Go hiking on the Path of the Gods, which presents one of the most striking panoramic views of the Amalfi. This 2.50 hour guided hike from Sorrento takes you through caves and terraces dropping from the cliffs to the sea creating deep picturesque valleys. Spots covered include Nocelle, Colle Serra, and Punta Campanella. 
• Atrani: Atrani is one of the quaint towns on the Amalfi Coast. It is known for its picturesque streets and tranquil atmosphere, and yes there are beaches and gorgeous views!
• Cetara: The fishing village of Cetara is considered a quintessential Mediterranean destination. Visitors come here to enjoy what many consider the best seafood in all of Amalfi Coast – it’s no wonder that this small town has been attracting tourists since way back when!
• Minori : Minori is one of the lesser-known and frequented places on the Amalfi Coast. People visit here to experience delicious pasta and see the watermills, but the brightly-painted houses will melt your heart! 
• Salerno : Although not on the Amalfi Coast, you can add a side trip to Salerno. It is a great alternative and a budget option for accommodation and to escape the crowds. Amalfi to Salerno is 45 minutes.

Explore Amalfi Coast: Sightseeing Map

Amalfi Coast Travel Tips

The Amalfi Coast is a must-see destination. From its breathtaking views to its delicious regional cuisine to the warm hospitality of its people—there are so many reasons why you should add this stunning piece of Italy to your bucket list. 

But before you book that flight, check out these tips for making sure you have everything in order for an unforgettable trip. 

Travel Insurance & Tourist Visas 

The first two things you need to take care of when planning any international trip are travel insurance and visas. 

Travel insurance is essential in case anything goes wrong during your journey, while visas will depend on the country’s entry requirements. 

If you require a visa for most of the European destinations in the EU, then you will need to apply and get a Schengen visa to enter Italy. 

Visitors with US and Canadian passports do not require a visa to enter the country and stay for 90 days; however, from 2025, an online authorization – ETIAS – is required prior to travel. 

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your return from Italy. 

Budgeting for the Amalfi Coast Region

The Amalfi Coast gets super crowded in the summer months. You can save money by visiting in the off-season and using public transportation. Renting a car is not only expensive, but it can be time-consuming (parking-related hassles and driving, etc.) 

Accommodation prices can be better in the shoulder season. Plus remember that there are 13 Amalfi Coast towns where you can stay. 

We highly recommend skipping Positano in the prime tourist seasons – instead opt for places like Ravello or Sorrento.

Sorrento being a bigger destination, you will find hotels for all budgets. Yes, you will have to travel to the Amalfi, but whichever town you choose to stay in – there will be some commute involved (from one town/village to another). 

We were able to find mid-budget accommodation in Sorrento (around $110 to $150 USD).  Keep in mind you can stay in Sorrento all 4 nights and then take day trips.

Sunbeds and umbrellas on a private beach club can cost between 15 to 30 euros (pricier in Positano). 

Guided day trips will cost around $75 to $110.

Packing tips

As far as packing goes—make sure everything fits into one bag – you will appreciate it when you navigate through train platforms and tiny lanes in Italy.

Pack light but make sure all essentials are accounted for (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, etc.). Here is a quick list of items

• Swimsuit and beachwear
• Hiking shoes and flip flops
• Sunscreen , sunhat, and sunglasses
• Flowy tops and dresses
• Comfy linen pants
• eReader or magazines (for entertainment)

By taking these important steps like getting travel insurance, budgeting responsibly, obtaining a tourist visa if necessary, and making sure all of your essentials get packed up safely before departing on your journey, you can ensure that nothing gets forgotten or overlooked while planning this exciting excursion!

We have a detailed EuroTrip Planner which can be printed time and again for all of your trips! Check it out here

Plot your Europe trip with this kickass planner!

Eurotrip planner.

Get this 50+ page Europe travel planner for your upcoming trip. You will find designed templates to help track your budget, visa, hotels, sightseeing, and more.

Plus you can plan your overall sightseeing routes using our multi-country and city combinations to save valuable time!

The entire Amalfi Coast is truly one of Italy’s gems. With its breathtaking views and charming villages, it’s easy to see why this place is so popular with travelers from all over. 

While 4 days may not seem like a lot of time, with careful planning, you can make the most of your time and see all that this amazing place has to offer.

Read more posts from our Italy travel blog :

• Italy Itineraries : 7-day Italy Itinerary | 10 days in Italy itinerary | Rome Amalfi Coast itinerary 7 days | 2-week Italy itinerary with Amalfi Coast
• Italian Riviera : Best Italian Riviera Towns
• Tuscany : One day in Pisa | 2 days in Florence | 3 days in Florence itinerary | 7-day Tuscany itinerary

Pin: Amalfi Coast Itinerary four days

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

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Perfect 4 Days In Amalfi Coast Itinerary

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 6, 2023 | Europe , Italy , Travel Tips

There’s no question that the Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful and picturesque areas in all of Italy. With its dramatic cliffs, sparkling seas, and quaint villages dotting the coast, it’s easy to see why this region is so popular with tourists. But what many people don’t know is that the Amalfi Coast is also a great place to spend 4 days.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the villages, or hike the coastline, there’s something for everyone in Amalfi. So if you’re planning a trip to Italy and wondering how to spend 4 days on the Amalfi Coast , read on for our complete itinerary.

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Day 1: Exploring Amalfi

Start your 4 days in Amalfi by getting acquainted with the town of Amalfi itself. As this is the day of your arrival, chances are that you’ll get there in the afternoon or in the evening.

You can explore Amalfi by strolling through the narrow streets, popping into the cute shops, and grabbing a coffee or gelato at one of the many cafes. Be sure to also visit the Amalfi Cathedral, a beautiful building.

Make sure to see the sunset if you can make it on time. From the Amalfi town center, follow the signs to La Terrazza Duomo. This is a restaurant with an incredible view of Amalfi twinkling below as the sun sets.

After sunset, have dinner at one of Amalfi’s restaurants.

Day 2: Visit Positano

On your second day on the Amalfi Coast, we recommend heading to Positano. This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Amalfi, and it’s easy to see why. The village is built into a cliffside, with brightly colored houses tumbling down to the sea.

There are plenty of things to do in Positano, from exploring the shops and boutiques to relaxing on the beach. We also recommend taking a boat tour of the coastline. This is a great way to see Positano from the water and get some incredible photos.

To reach Positano, you can either rent a scooter or take the ferry from Amalfi. The ferry ride is a smart way to see more of the coastline.

In the evening, have dinner in one of the popular restaurants in Positano.  Alternatively, head back to Amalfi for dinner and try one of the seafood restaurants near the harbor.

Day 3: Go For A Hike

On your third day on the Amalfi Coast, we recommend getting out of the towns and into nature with a hike.

There are several hiking trails in the area, but one of our favorites is the Sentiero Degli Dei, or “Trail of the Gods.” This hike takes you along the coastline from Amalfi to Positano, with incredible views the whole way.

There are shorter hikes available as well. For example, you can start at Nocelle and hike down to Positano.

After your hike, relax with drinks and some appetizers at one of the many cafes in Amalfi or Positano. You can head back to Amalfi by ferry.

If hiking is not for you, consider booking a boat trip to see the Amalfi Coast from a different perspective. There are plenty of companies offering boat tours, and this is a great way to see the coastline without having to hike. Or, take a day trip to Capri .

Day 4: Relax On The Beach

On your fourth and final day on the Amalfi Coast, we recommend taking it easy and relaxing on the beach until it’s time to leave.

If you have more time, you can also take a boat tour to the nearby island of Capri. This is a great way to see more of the Amalfi Coast and get some incredible photos.

Where To Stay On The Amalfi Coast

When it comes to finding the best villages on the Amalfi Coast, there are a few that stand out.

• Positano : This village is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Amalfi and it’s easy to see why. The village is built into a cliffside, with brightly colored houses tumbling down to the sea.
• Amalfi : Amalfi is the largest village on the Amalfi Coast and it’s a great base for exploring the area. The town has a picturesque harbor, and there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to enjoy.
• Ravello : Ravello is a village located high up in the mountains, with stunning views of the Amalfi Coast. If you’re planning on hiking , this is the perfect place to stay.
• Atrani : Atrani is a small village located next to Amalfi. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to the action but avoid the crowds.
• Maiori : Maiori is one of the largest towns on the Amalfi Coast and it’s a great place to relax on the beach. This is where we stayed, and it wasn’t crowded at all.
• Minori : Minori is a smaller town located between Maiori and Amalfi. It’s known for its beautiful beach.
• Praiano : Praiano is a village located between Positano and Amalfi. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to both towns but avoid the crowds.
• Scala : Scala is a small village located at the top of the Amalfi Coast. It’s a great place to stay if you want to get away from it all and enjoy the peace and quiet.

There are plenty of accommodation options in each of these villages, from hotels and apartments to Airbnbs. If you’re looking for the best deals, we recommend searching on Booking.com .

Staying In Amalfi?

Make sure to book a stay in one of the best hotels on the Amalfi Coast. Best Hostel: Hostel Briquette Best mid-range hotel: Amalfi Centro Best luxury hotel: Hotel Santa Caterina

Best Time To Visit The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a popular tourist destination, so it’s important to choose the right time to visit. The peak season runs from mid-June to mid-September, when the weather is at its best and the beaches are busiest.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting in May or October. The weather is still pleasant at this time of year, but the beaches are much quieter.

Alternatively, if you wish to visit during summer, but are not a fan of crowds, consider staying outside Amalfi and Positano, and pick a smaller village. You’ll get a more relaxed trip this way.

No matter when you visit, we’re sure you’ll fall in love with the Amalfi Coast. With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and delicious food, it’s easy to see why this region is so popular.

How To Get Around The Amalfi Coast

There are several ways to get around the Amalfi Coast, but the most popular option is by bus or ferry.

There are regular buses that run between the major towns, and this is a great way to see the coastline without having to drive.

If you’re staying in one of the smaller villages, you can also take a ferry to nearby towns. This is a great way to get around if you don’t want to take the bus, and it’s also a lot of fun.

There are also plenty of taxis and private drivers available, but this is the most expensive option.

Alternatively, you could rent a scooter if you feel comfortable driving around.

Driving a car is a real nightmare on the Amalfi Coast, so we don’t recommend it unless you’re visiting other areas in Italy. If that’s the case, make sure to find a hotel that provides parking and leave the car there during your stay.

Final Thoughts On Amalfi Coast Itinerary

If you’re looking for an incredible Italian coastline to explore, the Amalfi Coast is a great choice. With its stunning scenery and friendly locals, you’ll fall in love with this region. Our Amalfi 4-day itinerary will help you make the most of your visit.

Traveling to Italy soon? Make sure to read the following guides:

• Amalfi on a budget
• Is Amalfi worth visiting
• Is Capri worth visiting

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Four Days on Italy’s Amalfi Coast

This might just be the most sought-after coastline in the entire world for good reason. If you’re on the fence, just keep reading 🙂

October 5, 2023 by lesleymurphy 4 Comments

The Amalfi Coast is a 30-mile stretch of coastline along Italy’s southern edge. Think sheer cliffs, a rocky shoreline, small beaches and pastel-colored fishing villages. The coastal road between the port city of Salerno and clifftop Sorrento winds past grand villas, terraced vineyards and cliffside lemon groves.

Am I selling it yet? It’s a pretty easy place to sell 🙂 

Four-Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary

We started our honeymoon in the Amalfi Coast and had four blissful days here. Only a few months later, we brought LimitLes participants back for some fun in the sun!

Where to Stay

During both of my visits to the coast, I stayed in Amalfi. I think it’s a great central area that allows you to see the best parts without feeling like you’re in transfer the whole time. 

Santa Caterina Hotel : I wrote all about our dreamy honeymoon stay here ! Disclaimer: reading may lead to booking an ocean view room ASAP. 

Miramalfi Hotel : Down the street from Santa Caterina is this absolute gem of a hotel and where we stayed during LimitLes Italy. It was everything our group needed and so much more, plus just a few steps closer to the town of Amalfi.

Things to Do

The options are limitless on the Amalfi coast, but to maximize your time, I’d suggest breaking up your itinerary by town. Spend one day getting rid of jet lag and exploring Amalfi. Spend the next day taking in the glamour, shops and bars of Positano. Take in the heights of Ravello. Do a boat day to Capri. Before I break it down by location, I have to first highlight the two things you cannot miss if you find yourself in an Italian daydream!

Things You Can’t Miss

• Positano Home Cooking with Peter : If you do ONE thing on the Amalfi coast, do this. I’ve been twice and that will never suffice. It’s really more of a cooking experience as Peter and his sous chef do the hard parts while you sip lots and lots of incredible wine, taste very thoughtfully sourced local ingredients, learn so much, and leave with top-notch Italian memories.
• Path of the God’s Hike : Truth be told, I still have yet to hike this path with unreal views of the coast due to 2 unlucky weather days, but I’ll be back for it!

• Trattoria Da Gemma : Loved by many, this was our finale dinner for LimitLes Italy! If you can, reserve a seat outside for the best views and vibes.
• Terrazza Duomo Hotel & Restaurant rooftop : Climb the stairs across from the cathedral to the top of this hotel and cozy up for unbelievable views. We really stumbled into this place by spotting it from the ground and taking The Stairway Les Traveled. I can’t speak to the crowd, because we stopped in for a 3:30 snack & sip, and we had the place to ourselves with one of the most incredible views!
• Amalfi Cathedral
• Amalfi Coast tour via Fiat 500 : Trust me, do it!
• Wander through all the little shops in the piazza!

• Da Ferdinando restaurant & beach club: Just around the corner from where the ferry drops you off. The food is delicious, the little walk is beautiful, and you’ll probably avoid the crowds of people who settled for a more well-known spot.
• Franco’s Bar : White Lotus, Amalfi coast edition. Go for drinks, stay for the view, with no reservations.
• Chez Black restaurant: It’s iconic for a reason!

• Bangi Internazionale Beach Club for lunch, drinks & day beds .
• Blue/White/Green Grotto: Depending on time of year, tide, and lines, this can take a bit to move through!
• Faraglioni Rock : The iconic kissing rock. Everyone does it, and you must too!
• M arina Grande and Anacapri: If timing allows , take the funicular to the infamous Anacapri.

As you prepare, be ready to fall head over heels in love with this enchanting slice of Italy. There is so much to do whether you’re strolling through the quaint streets of Amalfi, indulging in a Positano sunset, or exploring the wonders of Capri. The Amalfi Coast weaves a tapestry of memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime. After all, like a fine limoncello or a moonlit cliffside dinner, the Amalfi Coast is meant to be savored slowly and treasured forever.

Reader Interactions

October 18, 2023 at 6:09 pm

Hello Lesley! Just wondering where did you get your blue dress? It looks really pretty! Thanks!

October 26, 2023 at 1:29 am

How do I see the next trip theroadlestraveled scheduled for 2024? Are the trips short trips out of the country, how many days…

November 2, 2023 at 2:18 pm

Hi Toni! The best way to be informed of new LimitLes dates/destinations is to be signed up for the newsletter. Email subscribers are the first to know and can be the first to apply, but you can also follow along on Instagram. Currently, our New Zealand and Patagonia trips are full for 2024. But stay tuned for something new & exciting launching VERY soon!

March 27, 2024 at 12:47 pm

Had the best meal at Chez Black last December. Amazing view and delicious Aperol Spritzer!!!

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Zest In A Tote

For the discerning family traveler, amalfi coast itinerary for 4 days: ​‘il dolce far niente’.

• by Shweta Singhal
• Posted on November 29, 2023 August 25, 2024

The 4 days on Amalfi coast in Italy were strategically sandwiched between the hectic sightseeing in our classic Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary to Italy. And I can’t recommend it enough for Il Dolce Far Niente or ‘the sweetness of doing nothing’! This stretch of coastline from Sorrento to Salerno is blessed with the natural beauty of mountains, cliffs, and the sea. UNESCO lists Amalfi coast as a World Heritage site. And if you are looking for the best Amalfi coast itinerary for 4 days, look no further!

Discover the perfect 4-day Amalfi Coast itinerary, offering a blissful escape from the hustle of sightseeing in big Italian cities. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Positano, visit the picturesque town of Ravello, explore the enchanting island of Capri, and indulge in the region’s culinary delights. 

We spent our Amalfi coast itinerary exploring the stunning towns that line up this coastline and the island of Capri. With narrow roads hugging steep cliffs and the inevitable summer traffic, we didn’t take our chances on driving a car. Instead, we largely depended on public buses, ferries and a lot of walking to move around this area.

Disclaimer:  This helpful post contains some Affiliate links. This means that if you click on any of the links in this post (AND make a purchase), I may receive a  small commission  at  absolutely no cost to you . As such I thank you in advance should you decide to click & buy .

Amalfi Itinerary Overview

There are many other towns and villages that dot the Amalfi coastline – Cetara, Maiori, Minori, Furore, Praiano, Scala. And if I ever go back again, I would love to explore some of these. For the first visit to this stunning coast, do not miss out on Amalfi, Positano, Ravello and Capri in your Amalfi Coast itinerary.

How to get to Amalfi coast

To reach most of the Amalfi towns, you first need to get to Naples.

Flight and Car Transfer : The closest international airport to the Amalfi coast is in Naples. If you are flying into Naples, you can schedule a transfer from Naples airport to Positano or other Amalfi towns.

Train and Car Transfer : Most people prefer to fly into Rome. Naples is well connected to Rome, Florence, Venice and other Italian cities by train. Trains run frequently, operated by both Trenitalia and Italotreno. You can check train, bus and ferry schedules on Omio platform easily.

We used the good train connectivity in Italy to get from Venice to Naples. And then took a pre-booked taxi to reach Amalfi town. You can schedule a private car transfer from Naples station to Positano or elsewhere on Amalfi coast. If your final destination is Sorrento, there is a train option from Naples to Sorrento. You have to take the train marked Circumvesuviana from the main Naples train station (Napoli Centrale).

Ferry : There are ferries running between Naples to Sorrento, Positano and Amalfi town. 

Best Time to visit Amalfi coast

Spring and summer months are a busy time for Amalfi coast. You need to plan and prepare for your Amalfi coast trip. Book everything way in advance if you are visiting between May and September, the busiest time of the year. Or visit during the shoulder season, which has also shifted to April and October. (May and September are as busy as summer time).

We explored the charming towns and breathtaking landscape of the Amalfi coast in 4 days, during early June. The June weather in Italy is great for Amalfi coast and the crowds are manageable.

If you are looking for summer crowds to thin out, but still have pleasant weather to enjoy, October is a good time to visit Amalfi Coast. Plus, prices do drop in October so Amalfi Coast is a good choice if you are figuring where to go in Europe in October.

Amalfi coast itinerary for 4 days

Day 1: amalfi town.

Amalfi is a historic town along the Amalfi Coast. Many travellers base themselves in Naples or Sorrento for better connectivity. However, our stay in Amalfi town away from large cities was exactly how we wanted this R & R sojourn to be.

The focal point of the Amalfi town historic center is the Piazza del Duomo , in front of a striking cathedral. We spent an afternoon exploring the cute little shops that are clustered around the piazza. After seeing the Duomo in Florence and the main cathedral in Venice, we decided to not go inside the cathedral here, but it is certainly worth a visit.  

Amalfi has had a glorious history as a maritime republic, and we certainly used it proximity to the sea well. We took a hydrofoil from here to reach Positano the next day, and a large catamaran to reach the Capri island the day after. Amalfi is also well connected to Positano, Ravello and Sorrento by buses. We found it to be a good base for our Amalfi coast itinerary for 4 days.

The local products to buy here is something made of local lemons – soaps and other personal care products, limoncello and more. They make for great souvenirs from Italy. The fresh smell of these giant yellow orbs is everywhere in spring and summer!

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Get travel tips, itineraries, best activities and more straight to your inbox., day 2: positano.

The jewel of Amalfi coastline favoured by the jet-setting crowd! Most travel brochures featuring Amalfi coast would feature multi-coloured houses stacked on top of each other – that’s Positano – and it features in any Amalfi coast itinerary.

Positano’s main beach – known as Spiaggia Grande –   is very popular and you would see a series of deckchairs and red umbrellas lined up on the sand. We were happy to gaze at this busy scene from one of the many excellent seafood restaurants that are on the beach.

A hydro foil from Amalfi town got us to Positano, but there are several ways to get to Positano. We later climbed up to the main road and took a public bus to come back. Both were enjoyable adventures! You could hire a boat from Amalfi or Positano to take you along the Amalfi coastline and perhaps explore more of the nooks of this charming area. But a ferry ride on a glorious summer day with the blue sky and the shimmering ocean was enjoyable enough.

It was fun to climb up and down the narrow, steep streets in Positano. There are several locations in and around Positano teeming with stray cats , and they are also great places to go and visit if you have the time.

Look into some chic boutique stores that the town is famous for. Indulge in a linen dress or two for yourself! Window shopping and cafe hopping in Positano is what I would suggest everyone in their program for 4 days in Amalfi coast.

The ride back on the bus was no less exhilarating. There were moments when I thought the Italian driver was trying his best to plunge the bus down the steep cliff into the ocean below. But he managed to neatly swerve at each turn and stay on the road. Phew!

Day 3: Capri island

This is a favourite amongst the jet-setting crowd as well. You should experience Capri whatever your budget may be. Large catamarans unload truckloads of tourists at this island so that the cafes and streets facing the harbour are really busy.

We reached this stunning island via a ferry ride from Amalfi town without much of a plan. The summer rush to see the famous Blue Grotto was far too much for our liking and we decided to skip to altogether. It is a popular activity for many tourists.

We looked around the busy harbour and hired a private boat after negotiating with one of the locals. Best decision ever! He took us around the island, answering our questions on the local life and the island while also giving us space to just enjoy ourselves.

Take the bus to the smaller Anacapri for a quiter experience and to explore local restaurants and boutiques. You would get some stunning views on the bus ride back from Anacapri.

We had kept aside a full day to enjoy Capri , but if I plan to go again to Amalfi coast, I would love to stay overnight at this beautiful island. Whether you spend a day at Capri or more, it should feature in your 4 days in Amalfi coast plan.

If you prefer a day tour to Capri from Amalfi town, Positano or Sorrento , check out these options:

Day 4: Ravello

Head to Ravello for a very different view of the Amalfi coastline. Ravello is perched higher than all other villages and towns. We took the public bus from Amalfi town to drop us to the main centre of Ravello and then walked back downhill! The town with its large villas, churches definitely looks like the choice for the wealthy locals.

Ravello is known for its music festivals. If it coincides with your vacation, make sure you attend a local music event. Do visit the delightful Villa Cimbrone , not just for the stunning views but also for its beautiful gardens and charming ambience.   For figuring on how to spend 4 days in Amalfi coast, I would recommend this delightful activity as an addition.

How to spend 4 days in Amalfi Coast

Most people pick between Cinque Terre, the coastal town in northern Italy, and Amalfi coast as part of their Italy itinerary. There is no one perfect answer, but in case, you have chosen the former, check out this Travel Guide to Cinque Terre .

Like in other parts of this compact country, there is so much that each region offers to see and do. So it takes time to finalise how to spend 4 days on Amalfi coast. Despite our interest in history and ruins, we couldn’t squeeze in a trip to Pompeii from Naples.

If one has more time, a Southern Italy road trip from Naples to Sicily would be a great idea.

It is not that you need a day each to explore the small towns and villages that dot the Amalfi coastline. But remember, this is your time to relax and savour the good life. So instead of flitting from one town to another in a frenzy, we explored the nooks and crannies in each town without much of a plan.

We took our time enjoying the fresh seafood at the local restaurants and just absorbing the stunning views during our 4 days at Amalfi coast. We stayed at the luxurious Santa Caterina in Amalfi, and made full use of its excellent restaurant to do nothing !

This Amalfi Coast 4-day itinerary offers a relaxing break from sightseeing in Italy. Discover charming towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, stroll along picturesque beaches, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. 

Travel Tips for Amalfi coast

Here are the travel tips to make the most of Amalfi coast:

Book early:  If you are planning an Amalfi Coast Itinerary during spring or summer time, you must book accommodation, ferries, everything early. When you book in advance, you get the best options at the best possible price. The rates go up as the high season begins, and everything good gets sold out.

Don’t rent a car:  We didn’t rent a car to spend 4 days in Amalfi coast, best decision ever! There is one main road that connects all the main towns in Amalfi coast. Driving in Italy is anyway not easy. And driving on this narrow cliffside road in peak summer traffic is just crazy. Plus, car parking is limited and expensive. 

Where to base yourself on the Amalfi coast:  This depends on your itinerary and budget. We had based ourselves in Amalfi town but our hotel hugging the cliffside was expensive. Plus, it had steep stairs going to the ocean below. We were prepared for a lot of climbing.

Sorrento offers better connectivity to towns and islands and lower accommodation cost that Amalfi coast towns. You can check out hotel options on the Amalfi coast here:

You can also opt for a day tour from Sorrento to Amalfi coast.

Avoid weekends : While planning your Italy trip, avoid spending weekend on the Amalfi Coast. 

Start early:  As with any crowded destination, you need to start exploring Amalfi coast towns early in the morning. This true for popular beaches to rent a beach chair or to hike a popular trail (avoid heat as well).

Wear flat shoes:  There would be a lot of walking around and climbing stairs, and not just in the hilly area of Positano. So put on your comfortable shoes for walking around the Amalfi coast. If you are spending a longer time in Amalfi like 10-14 days , and going for hikes to Mont Vesuvius and the Path of the Gods, then don’t forget your hiking shoes.

Try the local cuisine:  As with most parts of Italy, the best thing about your holiday would be the delicious local food. One dish local to this area is Pasta Puttanesca that tastes of the seashore. The coastal region offers some of the best traditional Italian food for you to enjoy.

Planning a trip to Italy? You may find these posts useful –

For a 2-week Itinerary :  The classic two-week Italy Itinerary .

Italy has show-stopper cities :  4 days in Rome ,  One day in Florence ,  2 days in Venice

Don’t forget Tuscany .  Day trip from Florence soaking the beautiful Tuscan landscape .

Spend time  at Lake Towns in Northern Italy , or Lake Como in 3 days or experience  Cinque Terre .

Take a day trip to Capri

Souvenirs : Good Souvenirs from Italy

Food in Italy :  21 of the Best Local & Traditional Italian Food you must try

[This post was originally published in 2019, and later updated in 2023.]

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Author: Shweta Singhal

Hi! I am Shweta, the zest behind this blog . I play several roles – parent to a 6-year old, adventure enthusiast, travel blogger, generally open to trying out new things in life. Besides travel, I love books and theatre and art. I would love to hear from you; do drop a comment. Join me on Instagram / Twitter @zestinatote. View all posts by Shweta Singhal

I did Turino and Tuscany and couldnt do Amalfi coast and by the looks of it seems, that I must plan one soon. regards

Italy has so much to do and see, that you are bound to miss out on fabulous places. We couldn’t squeeze in Pompeii. Always another time.

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Amalfi Coast Tours

Amalfi coast private tours italy, ultimate 4 day itinerary amalfi coast guide.

This ultimate 4 day itinerary Amalfi Coast guide will help you experience the best of this stunning region. Whether you’re a beach lover, adventure seeker, or hopeless romantic, the Amalfi Coast has it all. Our guide includes recommendations for accommodation options to suit different budgets, transportation options for hassle-free travel, and must-see attractions that will leave you in awe. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with natural beauty, cultural charm, and delectable cuisine.

Offers on Tours and Activities info here

Join us as we explore the highlights of the Amalfi Coast and create memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s dive into this unforgettable adventure !

Key Takeaways:

• Explore the stunning Amalfi Coast with this 4 day itinerary
• Discover accommodation options for every budget
• Choose between the charming towns of Sorrento or Amalfi as your base
• Find convenient transportation options for exploring the coast
• Visit the must-see attractions of Capri, Sorrento , Amalfi, Positano , and Ravello

Choosing the Right Base: Sorrento or Amalfi?

When planning your trip to the Amalfi Coast, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the right base. Two popular options are Sorrento and Amalfi. Let’s explore the differences to help you make an informed choice.

Sorrento: Affordable and Convenient

• More affordable hotels and accommodation options are available in Sorrento, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
• Sorrento offers easy access to other towns along the Amalfi Coast through ferries and buses, making it convenient for day trips and sightseeing.
• The town itself has a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of stores, restaurants, and nightlife options to explore.

Amalfi: Exclusivity and Natural Beauty

• Amalfi has a resort-like feel and boasts beautiful beaches, making it perfect for those seeking a more exclusive and luxurious experience.
• While Amalfi may be slightly more expensive than Sorrento, it offers a charming ambiance with its rich history and stunning coastal views.
• Amalfi is known for its elegant hotels, where you can enjoy breathtaking sunsets and indulge in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast.

When choosing between Sorrento and Amalfi , consider your budget and preferences . If affordability and convenience are your top priorities, Sorrento may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more exclusive and picturesque experience, Amalfi is the place to be.

Where to Stay on Amalfi Coast?

When planning your stay along the Amalfi Coast , there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for a luxurious experience, this stunning coastal region has something to offer for everyone.

If you’re a budget traveler, Sorrento is a great base. It offers a range of affordable hotels and hostels that won’t break the bank. From cozy guesthouses to charming boutique hotels, you’ll find options that fit your budget without compromising on comfort.

For those seeking a more luxurious and picturesque stay, consider booking a hotel in Amalfi, Positano , or Ravello . These towns are known for their breathtaking views, elegant resorts, and world-class hospitality. Indulge in the luxurious amenities, gourmet dining, and stunning sea views as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast.

However, keep in mind that popular towns like Amalfi and Positano tend to be more expensive. To secure the best deals and ensure availability, it’s recommended to book well in advance. The demand for these picturesque locations is high, especially during peak travel seasons.

If you prefer a quieter and more secluded stay, there are also options for staying in more remote areas along the coast. These hidden gems offer tranquility and a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture. However, it’s important to note that some of these remote areas may require climbing stairs or hills to access the town, so be prepared for a bit of a workout as you explore these lesser-known destinations.

Choose the accommodation that best suits your preferences, budget, and desired experience. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or seeking a luxurious retreat, the Amalfi Coast has a range of hotels and resorts to cater to every traveler’s needs.

Transportation and Getting Around

Getting around the Amalfi Coast can be an adventure in itself. With its narrow roads and aggressive drivers, driving may not be the best option for everyone. However, there are several alternative modes of transportation that can make your sightseeing experience more enjoyable and stress-free.

The Sita buses are a reliable and affordable way to travel along the Amalfi Coast. These buses connect the different towns and villages, offering stunning views of the coastline along the way. The bus stops are well-marked, and the schedules are frequent, making it convenient to hop on and off as you explore.

Train and Bus Combination

If you prefer to avoid driving altogether, you can take a train or bus to Naples and then catch a bus to the Amalfi Coast. This option provides a more direct and hassle-free route, especially for those arriving from other parts of Italy. The train journey to Naples offers scenic views of the countryside, and once you arrive in Naples, there are several bus options to choose from.

For a truly picturesque experience, consider traveling between towns by ferry. The ferries not only provide convenient transportation but also allow you to take in the breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast from the water. This is a popular option for day trips and allows you to explore multiple towns in a single day.

For those who are confident in their driving skills and want more flexibility, renting a car can be an option. However, it is important to note that parking can be limited and expensive in popular towns like Amalfi and Positano. Additionally, the narrow and winding roads can be challenging for inexperienced drivers. If you do decide to rent a car, be sure to familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules and regulations.

Transportation Comparison:

When deciding on the best mode of transportation for your Amalfi Coast adventure, consider your comfort level, budget, and preferences. Whether you choose to take the bus, ferry, or rent a car, each option offers its own unique experience and allows you to enjoy the breathtaking sights and charm of this coastal paradise.

Day 1: Capri – Exploring the Island’s Beauty

On the first day of your Amalfi Coast itinerary, embark on a full-day boat tour to the enchanting island of Capri. This excursion offers an opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the island, experience its famous grottos, indulge in snorkeling adventures, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of its town.

Start your day by visiting the heart of Capri. Explore the charming streets, adorned with colorful buildings, boutique shops, and enticing cafes. Don’t forget to capture the stunning views from various viewpoints scattered throughout the town. These magnificent vistas will surely leave you in awe of the Amalfi Coast’s natural splendor.

A boat tour is not complete without a visit to one of Capri’s renowned beach clubs. Choose a beach club that suits your preferences and spend some time sunbathing on the pristine sands, sipping refreshing drinks, and taking occasional dips in the crystal-clear waters. As you relax, be sure to keep an eye out for the giant lemons, symbolic of the Amalfi Coast, which are found abundantly throughout the island.

Embarking on a boat tour also presents an excellent opportunity to meet fellow travelers and exchange stories and experiences. Make new friends while traversing the turquoise waters surrounding Capri and revel in the shared marvel of the island’s beauty.

Famous Grottos of Capri

During your boat tour, don’t miss the chance to explore the famous grottos of Capri. The Blue Grotto, in particular, is a must-see attraction. Its vibrant blue hues, caused by sunlight passing through an underwater cavity, create a surreal and mesmerizing experience. Marvel at the ethereal beauty of this natural wonder as you glide through its narrow entrance.

“Capri is a true gem of the Amalfi Coast. Its picturesque streets, stunning viewpoints, and legendary grottos make it an unforgettable destination for travelers.”

A glimpse of Capri Boat Tour

This captivating boat tour to Capri marks the beginning of an unforgettable journey along the Amalfi Coast. It sets the stage for the remarkable experiences awaiting you in the following days. Get ready to explore more breathtaking destinations, indulge in delectable cuisine, and create lasting memories along the stunning coastline.

Day 2: Sorrento – Relaxing and Enjoying the Beach

On the second day, indulge in the laid-back charm of Sorrento, a picturesque town on the Amalfi Coast. Spend a leisurely day basking in the sun and enjoying the beautiful beaches that this region is famous for.

Soak Up the Sun and Sea

Head to the beach and embrace the warm Mediterranean waters along the Amalfi Coast. Sorrento offers a variety of beach options to suit different preferences and budgets. Rent beach chairs at a cheap beach and recline in comfort as you soak up the sun’s rays. Let the clear blue waters wash away your worries as you take a refreshing swim in the sea.

Dining Delights

Sorrento is renowned for its delectable cuisine, so don’t miss the opportunity to savor the flavors of the Amalfi Coast. Indulge in a culinary adventure at the beachfront restaurants that offer breathtaking views of the coast while enjoying a delicious meal. Try the local specialties, fresh seafood, and traditional Italian dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.

“Sorrento offers a variety of beach options to suit different preferences and budgets. Let the clear blue waters wash away your worries as you take a refreshing swim in the sea.”

Sample Limoncello

No visit to Sorrento is complete without indulging in the famous Limoncello, a lemon liqueur that is a specialty of the region. Take a Limoncello tasting tour to experience the distinct flavors and aromas of this delightful beverage. Learn about the traditional production methods and enjoy the refreshing tang of Sorrento’s lemon-based products.

If you’re looking for a day of relaxation and beachside bliss, Sorrento is the perfect destination on your Amalfi Coast itinerary. Enjoy the sun, sea, and culinary delights that make this town a true gem of the coast.

Day 3: Amalfi and Positano – Exploring the Famous Coastal Towns

On the third day of your Amalfi Coast adventure, it’s time to visit the famous coastal towns of Amalfi and Positano. These charming towns offer breathtaking views and a unique ambiance that will captivate your senses.

• Start your day by taking a leisurely water taxi from Amalfi to Positano. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning coastal scenery that will leave you speechless.
• Once you arrive in Positano, take some time to explore the town’s charming streets and admire the colorful houses stacked against the cliffs. Don’t forget to visit the local shops, where you’ll find unique handmade ceramics, fashionable clothing, and exquisite jewelry.
• While Positano is known for its beauty, it can be quite pricey. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, head to Amalfi. Here, you’ll find a resort-like atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Rent a comfortable beach chair and umbrella, relax, and soak up the sun.
• After enjoying some time on the beach, take a stroll through the streets of Amalfi. Admire the stunning architecture of the Duomo di Amalfi, a 9th-century cathedral that stands as a testament to the town’s rich history.

Exploring the famous coastal towns of Amalfi and Positano is a must-see experience when visiting the Amalfi Coast. The beauty and charm of these towns will leave an indelible mark on your memories and ignite a love for this enchanting region.

Day 4: Ravello – Discovering a Hidden Gem

On the fourth day of your Amalfi Coast adventure, take the opportunity to visit the enchanting town of Ravello. Known for its stunning views of the Amalfi Coast and its elegant gardens and villas, Ravello offers a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.

Begin your day with a leisurely walk through the town, soaking in the beauty of its historic streets and charming architecture. As you explore, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramas of the coastline and the azure waters below.

If you’re feeling adventurous, Ravello also offers a variety of hiking trails that take you through the scenic countryside. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a journey through the lush landscapes, discovering hidden gems along the way.

After a day of sightseeing or hiking, treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at one of Ravello’s renowned restaurants. Indulge in delicious Italian cuisine while taking in the mesmerizing views of the Amalfi Coast.

Ravello truly is a hidden gem of the Amalfi Coast, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquility. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of this lesser-known town.

Dining and Nightlife

The Amalfi Coast is a culinary paradise, offering a delightful array of dining options. Indulge in the authentic flavors of Italian cuisine, savoring mouthwatering dishes and fresh seafood. Of course, no visit to the Amalfi Coast is complete without trying Limoncello, a zesty lemon liqueur that is a local specialty.

Throughout the towns along the Amalfi Coast, you’ll find a diverse range of restaurants catering to different budgets and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a casual eatery or an upscale dining experience, there’s something for everyone.

In Sorrento, you’ll discover a treasure trove of dining choices. From charming trattorias to bustling pizzerias, Sorrento offers a wide variety of culinary delights. Feast on delicious pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and delectable gelato as you soak up the lively atmosphere.

In Amalfi and Positano, renowned for their stunning coastal views, you’ll find restaurants offering picturesque dining experiences. Take in the breathtaking scenes as you enjoy a sumptuous meal accompanied by the gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore. These towns are known for their fresh seafood, so be sure to try some of the region’s catch of the day dishes.

Exploring the local nightlife is also a must when visiting the Amalfi Coast. Experience the vibrant atmosphere as you venture into lively bars, cozy wine bars, and chic beach clubs. Dance the night away or simply relax with a cocktail as you soak in the lively ambiance of the coast.

With its gastronomic delights and vibrant nightlife, the Amalfi Coast is sure to satisfy your cravings for both fabulous cuisine and unforgettable evenings out.

Budget Tips and Recommendations

If you’re traveling on a budget to the Amalfi Coast, there are several tips and recommendations to help you save money without compromising on the experience. Here are some budget-friendly strategies to consider:

1. Choose Affordable Accommodation in Sorrento

To save on accommodation costs, opt for staying in Sorrento rather than the more expensive towns along the Amalfi Coast. Sorrento offers a range of budget-friendly hotels and hostels without sacrificing comfort and convenience.

2. Take Advantage of Free or Low-Cost Beach Areas

Instead of paying for beach clubs or private beaches, take advantage of the free or low-cost beach areas in Sorrento and Amalfi. Pack a beach towel, sunscreen, and enjoy the beautiful coastline without spending extra money.

3. Plan Around Ferry and Bus Schedules

Save on transportation costs by planning your itinerary around the ferry and bus schedules. Using public transportation is more affordable than renting a car or hiring private transportation. Check the schedules in advance and plan your day accordingly to avoid unnecessary expenses.

4. Visit Attractions During Off-Peak Hours

To avoid crowds and potentially save on admission fees, consider visiting popular attractions during off-peak hours. Early morning or late afternoon visits can provide a more relaxed and intimate experience while helping you stick to your budget.

5. Book Accommodation Well in Advance

Secure the best deals on hotels by booking your accommodation well in advance. Early booking can help you get better rates and availability, especially during peak travel seasons when prices tend to increase. Shop around, compare prices, and book as soon as possible to lock in the most affordable options.

6. Pack Essentials to Save Money

Remember to pack essentials such as sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a reusable water bottle. By bringing these items from home, you can save on purchasing them at higher prices in tourist areas. Staying hydrated and protected from the sun will ensure an enjoyable trip without unnecessary expenses.

Incorporating these budget tips and recommendations into your Amalfi Coast itinerary will help you make the most of your trip while staying within your desired budget.

Tips for Driving on the Amalfi Coast

Driving on the Amalfi Coast requires confidence and skill. The roads are narrow, winding, and often congested. Be prepared for aggressive drivers and be mindful of the steep cliffs along the way. Avoid driving during peak tourist season to minimize traffic. Consider renting a smaller car for easier maneuverability. Familiarize yourself with the Italian traffic rules and regulations. Use GPS or map apps to navigate, and be cautious of parking availability in popular towns.

Here are some essential tips to keep in mind while driving on the Amalfi Coast:

• Be confident and cautious: The roads on the Amalfi Coast can be challenging, so make sure you feel comfortable driving on narrow and winding roads. Always exercise caution and be aware of oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
• Watch out for aggressive drivers: The Amalfi Coast is known for its drivers with a bold driving style. Expect overtaking on blind corners and fast-moving vehicles. Stay alert and drive defensively to ensure your safety.
• Beware of steep cliffs: The Amalfi Coast is characterized by its stunning cliffs and dramatic landscapes. Keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions to prevent accidents.
• Avoid peak tourist season: The roads can get extremely congested during the peak tourist season, especially in the summer months. Plan your trip accordingly to minimize traffic and make your driving experience more enjoyable.
• Consider renting a smaller car: The narrow roads and tight turns on the Amalfi Coast can make maneuvering larger vehicles challenging. Opt for a smaller car that offers better agility and ease of navigation.
• Learn the traffic rules: Familiarize yourself with the Italian traffic rules and regulations before driving on the Amalfi Coast. This will help you understand the signage, road markings, and overall driving etiquette.
• Use GPS or map apps: To navigate the intricate road network of the Amalfi Coast, rely on GPS or map apps for accurate directions. These tools will guide you through the winding roads and ensure you stay on track.
• Be mindful of parking: In popular towns like Amalfi and Positano, parking can be challenging to find. Research and plan where to park in advance to avoid wasting time and frustration.

By following these tips, you can confidently explore the Amalfi Coast by car and make the most of your travel experience.

The Amalfi Coast offers a truly magical experience with its stunning landscapes, charming towns , and delicious cuisine. This 4 day itinerary allows you to explore the highlights of the Amalfi Coast , including the breathtaking islands of Capri, the idyllic coastal towns of Sorrento, Amalfi, Positano, and the hidden gem of Ravello. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or romance , the Amalfi Coast has something for everyone.

As you plan your trip, it’s important to carefully consider your budget and preferences . The Amalfi Coast offers a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly to luxurious, so you can find the perfect place to stay. Transportation can be challenging on the narrow roads, but there are convenient options such as buses, ferries, and water taxis to help you navigate the region.

Get ready for an enchanting journey along the Amalfi Coast, where you’ll be immersed in stunning natural beauty, experience the warmth of the local hospitality, and indulge in the delicious flavors of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, exploring charming streets and shops, or embarking on thrilling hiking trails, the Amalfi Coast will captivate your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.

What is a good base to stay at on the Amalfi Coast?

Sorrento and Amalfi are two popular options. Sorrento is more affordable and offers easy access to other towns through ferries and buses. Amalfi has a resort-like feel and beautiful beaches.

What are some accommodation options on the Amalfi Coast?

In Sorrento, there are affordable hotels and hostels. For a more luxurious stay, consider booking a hotel in Amalfi, Positano, or Ravello. Keep in mind that popular towns like Amalfi and Positano tend to be more expensive and may require booking well in advance.

How can I travel around the Amalfi Coast?

Driving on the Amalfi Coast can be challenging, so consider buses or ferries for transportation. Taking a train or bus to Naples and then catching a bus to the coast is also an option.

What should I do on the first day of the itinerary?

Take a full-day boat tour to Capri, where you can explore the island, its grottos, and enjoy snorkeling. Visit the heart of the town, relax at a beach club, and don’t miss the chance to try giant lemons, a symbol of the Amalfi Coast.

What can I do on the second day of the itinerary?

Spend time in Sorrento, relax at a restaurant pier, swim, recline on beach chairs, and enjoy drinks. Rent beach chairs at a cheap beach and soak up the sun. Don’t miss a Limoncello tasting, as Sorrento is known for its lemon-based products.

What should I do on the third day of the itinerary?

Visit the famous coastal towns of Amalfi and Positano. Take a water taxi from Amalfi to Positano, explore the charming streets and shops, and enjoy the stunning coastal views. Amalfi offers beautiful beaches at a more affordable price.

What can I do on the fourth day of the itinerary?

Visit the hidden gem of Ravello, known for stunning views and gardens. Take a leisurely walk through the town, explore hiking trails, and end the day with a relaxing dinner.

What are the dining and nightlife options on the Amalfi Coast?

The Amalfi Coast offers delicious cuisine, ranging from budget-friendly to upscale restaurants. Sorrento has a wide range of dining choices, while Amalfi and Positano have renowned restaurants with picturesque views. Explore the local nightlife and vibrant atmosphere.

How can I travel on a budget along the Amalfi Coast?

Stay in Sorrento for affordable accommodation options. Take advantage of free or low-cost beach areas in Sorrento and Amalfi. Plan your itinerary around ferry and bus schedules to save on transportation. Consider visiting attractions during off-peak hours and book accommodation well in advance for the best deals.

What are some tips for driving on the Amalfi Coast?

Driving on the Amalfi Coast requires confidence and skill. The roads are narrow, winding, and often congested. Be prepared for aggressive drivers and be mindful of the steep cliffs. Avoid driving during peak tourist season, consider renting a smaller car, and familiarize yourself with Italian traffic rules. Use GPS or map apps and be cautious of parking availability in popular towns.

The Perfect Amalfi Coast Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal (1 or 5 – 7 Day Stay Ideas)

Last Updated on 1st August 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

The gorgeous and dramatic stretch of the Amalfi Coast is like no other place in Italy, or indeed the world. Best explored over several days to truly soak up the area’s ambience, sample a smattering of local dishes, and enjoy several gorgeous sunsets, here’s your ultimate Amalfi Coast Itinerary .

I have created a one-day in the Amalfi Coast suggested itinerary (see below), but if you’re staying longer, there are suggestions for 5 days or 7 days on the Costiera Amalfitana .

The first five days will concentrate solely on the Amalfi Coast, while day six and seven will be spent at nearby attractions and destinations. If you don’t have a full week available, then you can follow just the first five days of this itinerary.

Where is the Amalfi Coast?

What if you only have one day on the amalfi coast, day 1 on the amalfi coast suggested itinerary: positano and the path of the gods , day 2 on the amalfi coast suggested itinerary: furore, praiano & san michele , day 3 on the amalfi coast suggested itinerary: amalfi, atrani, ravello & pontone , day 4 on the amalfi coast suggested itinerary: minori, maiori, vietri sul mare & cetara, day 5 on the amalfi coast suggested itinerary: capri or boat ride & dinner in sorrento, day 6 on the amalfi coast suggested itinerary: pompeii and herculaneum, day 7 on the amalfi coast suggested itinerary: naples.

The Amalfi Coast is in Southern Italy, just south of the city of Naples (the 4th largest metropolitan area in Italy). Located in the Province of Salerno (which is one of the largest towns on the stretch of coastline), Amalfi is a particular length of coastline of the Salerno Gulf on the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The Amalfi Coast draws millions of visitors every year thanks to its dramatic coastal towns, stunning turquoise blue waters, and winding narrow streets. Please note that the name Amalfi is not only used to designate the stretch of coastline but is also the name of one of the most prominent towns on the coastal stretch.

If you only have one day to spend on the Amalfi Coast then I recommend focusing on the major sites that the area has to offer: Amalfi, Ravello, and Positano. I would personally start by heading to Ravello, where hilltop villas overlook the mountainous sea cliffs that the region is so famous for.

Then, you’ll want to head on to Amalfi where the glitzy glamour of the town soon becomes apparent. Some of the must-see things to do in town include a visit to the Paper Museum , sipping on limoncello at the Amalfi Lemon Experience and wandering through the Cloisters of Paradise .

If you would prefer for all of the transport details to be taken care of for you, then I would opt for a boat cruise (cruises depart from Salento regularly, but typically a full-day one begins first thing in the morning).

Amalfi Coast suggested itinerary

For this itinerary, you’ll want to have access to your own vehicle. I recommend renting the smallest car possible (which is typically a Fiat 500) so that you can complete this suggested driving route at your leisure.

Start your travels by visiting undoubtedly the most famous town on the Amalfi Coast, Positano. Nestled between an enclave of mountainous hills, the town is famed for its splash of colourful pastel-hued houses that are dreamily painted across the jagged coastline.

Positano is abundant with things to do , however, the town itself is quite small so can easily be seen in a day, still leaving time for you to explore the Path of Gods hiking trail and soak up breathtaking views.

Begin your day by simply wandering around and getting lost in Positano’s winding maze of narrow streets, from here you are likely to come across a cosy café where you can start by indulging in a  traditional Italian breakfast .

After breakfast head to see the little miniature village models (generally small shrines to honour the Virgin Mary), which can be found scattered across the towns of the Amalfi Coastline and are often tucked away in a roadside.

Then, head to the beach! Of course, one of the greatest joys of visiting coastal towns is their abundance of beautiful beaches. Spiaggia Grande is the main beach of Positano, but there are four beaches in total to choose from. Generally, Arienzo Beach Club is the quietest as it’s only reachable by boat or a steep set of stairs.

Enjoy a seaside lunch, thanks to the obvious proximity to the sea, here is where you’ll find some of the finest and freshest seafood you can imagine! Although, it’s worth noting that if you wish to have a sit-down meal in the town be sure to book in advance, particularly during the peak season.

Spend the afternoon doing one of the most popular activities in the town, shopping. Positano is particularly well-known for its clothing boutiques, handmade sandals, and colourful ceramics which feature local motifs such as lemons and olives.

Once the temperatures have cooled a little in the late afternoon, take yourself on the Amalfi Coast’s most popular hiking route and marvel at stunning views that are sure to take your breath away! The Path of Gods is considered to be a moderately challenging route so wear comfy shoes and bring lots of water.

End your day with a limoncello spritz, a sunset view and a delicious dinner! Many people say that the best time to see Positano is after dark when the pastel houses are illuminated and moonlight is reflected across the water…and to be honest, I couldn’t agree more.

Travel to a “town that doesn’t exist” thanks to the fjord-like gorge that sits bang in the middle of it. As there’s no main square, or town for that matter, your visit to Furore will be centred around visiting the natural landscape and beach.

Furore is famed for its impressive huge stone arch that connects over a magnificent sparkling gorge. Spend the morning here hiking, exploring the hidden coves and taking a dip in the warming waters of the Mediterranean Sea on the hidden pebble beach below the arch.

Next, head to another quiet town which is perched high above on the cliffs, Praiano. Find somewhere to grab lunch, Ristorante Il Pino offers spectacular views overlooking the azure sea, or you could head to a shop and pick up some local delights to enjoy on the main beach Marina di Praia tucked between two looming cliff faces.

Spend a little time exploring Praiano, the village is pretty small so you’ll only need 2-3 hours depending on how long you choose to sit and soak up the leisurely pace of life here. A particular highlight not to be missed when visiting is the beautiful Church of St. Gennaro, which stands as the only building of baroque architecture along the Amalfi Coast. 

Head over to the neighbouring town, San Michele ******

What you may not know is that the Amalfi Coast takes its name from the jewel town, Amalfi itself. According to legends, the Roman god Hercules fell in love with a nymph called Amalfi. When she died, Hercules wanted to bury her in the most beautiful place on earth and thus decided on this town.

First, stop for coffee and a sweet pastry and enjoy breakfast like a local! Then, start exploring Amalfi town by visiting some of its most unique sights. You’ll likely need to set aside 2-3 hours to see the town, possibly more time if you want to relax on the beach as well.

See centuries-old machinery at work for yourself at The Paper Museum, then learn and taste sun-kissed  lemons  at the Amalfi Lemon Experience. Also not to be missed is the small pocket of peace, The Cloister of Paradise, which is set within the town’s Duomo and was built between 1266 and 1268. 

On the street,  Ruga Nova Mercatorum , you’ll find shops selling treasures such as  traditional homemade ceramics , which make for the perfect souvenir to bring home and remember your trip!

Next, take a short ten-minute walk through a not-so-obvious pedestrian tunnel  (as if walking through a secret passageway)  and you’ll find the charming fishing village, Atrani. This tiny village is attached to that of Amalfi, so many people often think of it as the same place. 

Here you can spend some time relaxing on the beach, which is often quieter than that of the bustling Amalfi Town and grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants by the waterfront. Le Palme serves mouthwatering Italian pizza and offers vegan options.

After filling up with delicious Italian food, you can either hike to the next town or drive (the hike from Amalfi to Ravello takes approximately 50 minutes one-way).

Walking along paths rich with history which boast spectacular views is truly an enchanting way to reach the beautiful town of Ravello . However, the route can be quite challenging, with quite a few steep inclines at points, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

Once in Ravello, you will be able to explore treasures such as the immaculate gardens of a historic villa which dates back to the 11th century and is a beautiful example of Italianate architecture. Here, you will also find the Terrace of Infinity, which is as romantic as the name suggests, offering views overlooking the picture-perfect town and beyond.

Ravello is full of charm and ideally, you’ll want to set aside 3-4 hours for your visit. Particularly if you happen to be visiting during July and August as the town comes to live with a two-month-long festival celebrating all things music!

End your day in the hilltop village of Pontone, the oldest settlement of the Amalfi Coast. Thanks to its position atop the hillside of Mount Pontone, the village boasts stunning views as well as being an idyllic spot for (even more) hiking in the surrounding nature trails!

The village can be reached by foot from Amalfi if you are willing to climb the steep ascent of 750 steps (which may be a lot considering the amount of hiking already). The picturesque medieval village is the prime spot to watch the sunset, and there are a few local restaurants where you can have dinner.

Begin another delightful day on the Amalfi Coast in the charming town of Minori. This small town is a little lesser known so start the day off wandering the narrow maze of streets and soaking up the tranquility of the town as you sip on morning coffee.

One of the must-see sights in the quaint town is the lemon-coloured cathedral, Basilica of Saint Trofimena which is dedicated to the female saint, Trofimena. Then, book yourself on a ‘Lemon Tour’ and immerse yourself in the old rural life, learning all about the cultivation and importance of lemons to the coastline heritage.

You can walk from Minori to Maiori via the Path of Lemons, which is one of the most evocative trails that takes you through an abundance of lemon groves (the walk takes 1.5 hours and is moderately challenging).

In Maiori stop for lunch and soak up the views, then head to the beach, which is the biggest stretch of beach in the whole of the Amalfi Coast! A historic Norman Tower looms over the beach. Here you can relax, go for a dip and explore Grotta del Pandora , which are hidden coves only reachable by sea.

Spend the afternoon in the ‘Ceramic Capital of the Coast’ , Vietri sul Mare . You’ll want to set aside at least 2-3 hours minimum to fully experience the charm of this town. And, the best way to experience Vietri sul Mare is to simply wander around and get lost down the narrow winding streets.

A highlight, of course, is a visit to the Vietri Ceramics Museum which is dedicated to the heritage and history of all things ceramic. And, if time allows, this town is one of the best places to get your hands deep in some clay and make your very own ceramics!

Before leaving the ceramic haven, shop for a souvenir or two and head to the viewpoint of the town where you can take in panoramic views of Vietri sul Mare before heading over to the final stop of the day.

End your day in the delightful fishing town of Cetara , which is most famous for its seafood and is known as the ‘World Tuna Capital’ . Of course no trip to Cetara would be complete without a visit to a tuna shop, where you can taste the delights and learn more about the importance of the town’s maritime heritage.

Full of character and charm, there’s only one main street that runs along the town, where you’ll find an abundance of vibrant and colourful restaurants, shops and cosy cafes and here you will also see the beautiful Saint Peter’s Church.

You can also visit the 16th-century defensive tower which houses a small museum dedicated to the fishing roots of Cetara as well as Anchovy Colatura  (where you can see the ancient barrels in which the amber liquid was once stored) .

Find a restaurant to have dinner in by Cetara’s beautiful port area and enjoy dinner by the sea eating some of the freshest Italian cuisine!

Opt to take a boat ride and spend the day visiting the beautiful island of Capri! Simply hop on a ferry from Sorrento to Capri. The island is famed for its fascinating rock formations, stretches of dramatic coastlines and crystal clear waters, its natural beauty alone is enough reason to visit!

Aside from its breathtaking natural beauty, the island is scattered with churches, museums, delicious cuisine and world-class shopping. Start here by watching the world go by at the main Piazzetta and grab a coffee and pastry to fuel up for a day of exploring.

Next, head to the luscious green oasis, the Garden of Augustus , which is a terraced garden sprinkled with statues, overlooking breathtaking views. Then hike up the steep trail to see (and photograph) the iconic view overlooking Via Krupp .

Another popular attraction to visit while in Capri is the Blue Grotto, a sea cave which illuminates blue when the sun shines through. Spend a long and lazy afternoon at one of the many beaches, boasting sparkling blue waters that are dreamy to take a dip in.

Once you’ve got your fill of sunshine and swimming, go back into town and find a spot to have lunch before heading to the main shopping street, Via Camerelle . This elegant street might just be for window shopping as it’s quite a high end strip, but well worth a visit!

Take the ferry back to Sorrento , you’ll want to get there a little before dinner time so that you have enough time to explore the town. Sunny Sorrento is filled with treasures and is best known for its abundance of sun-kissed citrus fruits , namely lemons.

Wander around Sorrento’s historic old town which is known as Centro Storico , and find somewhere to enjoy a refreshing pre-dinner drink, I recommend a limoncello spritz!

Then you can head down to the Marina Grande and soak up views of the pastel-hued houses at the waterfront, before going down the narrow cobbled lanes to the main square Piazza Tasso and stopping at one of the many terraced cafés for a delicious and hearty Italian dinner.

For even more Sorrento inspiration, check out our guide on how to spend one day in Sorrento .

Coming to the end of your trip, spend your penultimate day stepping in time and exploring some of Italy’s most important archaeological sites. Both ancient Roman cities are easily reached via public transport and the best place to take the train from is Sorrento.

It has to be said that the sheer size of Pompeii alone can seem vast and overwhelming, so you could either spend a whole day there or prioritise the main things to see before you visit. Herculaneum is much less visited and only a fraction of the site has been excavated so far, so there is much less to see, but it’s still worth the trip if you have time.

We’ve put together a guide on how to visit Pompeii and Herculaneum , including advice on the best way to get there as well as options for self-guided and guided tours to take.

If you have a final day to spend in the south of Italy, then I highly recommend taking the time to visit the wonderful and vibrant city of Naples . A gritty city with a lot of character and heaps of charm, Napoli (as it’s known in Italian) is one destination that you’ll remember for years to come. 

Filled with an array of historic monuments, churches, museums and galleries, Naples is brimming with cultural delights. A trip to this charming Italian city would be remiss without sampling the famed Neapolitan pizza ! Naples is indeed the birthplace and origin of one of the world’s most popular and comforting foods.

One day is sufficient time to see Naples, although it has to be said that it will be quite a packed day as there’s a lot to see and enjoy. Luckily we’ve already made a one-day in Naples itinerary you’ll want to steal , to make your travels that bit easier and get the most out of your trip.

Enjoyed reading this perfect Amalfi Coast Itinerary? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Charlotte is a photographer, cat lover and an avid knitter. When she’s not curled up on the sofa with her newest knitting project (and Rico her cat!) you can find her out and about on long walks. Currently living in the magical city of Edinburgh, she looks forward to travelling and seeing more of the world!

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The Outdoor Lovers' Guide To Beautiful Places

• Work With Katiesaway
• Destinations

Europe , Italy · October 12, 2023

4 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary – The Best Things to Do

The Amalfi coast is one of the most visited destinations in Italy and there is no questioning why. It is a truly beautiful coastline with colourful houses decorating the rugged hills and crystal blue waters below. This area of Southern Italy’s coastline is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with 13 small towns, countless beaches and beautiful views. I know from experience that planning a trip to the Amalfi coast can be daunting – with so many cities to visit, not knowing how to get around, or what to do there. In this 4-day Amalfi coast itinerary I have outlined everything you will want to see and do during your 4 days on the Amalfi coast and all the details you will need to plan the perfect trip.

I have been lucky enough to visit the Amalfi coast twice in the last few years – two very different experiences but both as incredible as the other. The first time, we were students on a very tight budget. We stayed just outside the Amalfi coast to save money and were held back a little by our struggle on finding information about how to get around and what to do. Returning one year later made planning so much easier. This time we knew more about each town, where the best place to stay is, how to get the most out of every experience. Now I want to share all those travel tips with you.   

Please note that this post contains affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase through the link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I make sure to only ever promote products and brands I have used and like, and that all links are to trusted websites.

Included in this guide and itinerary for 4 days in the Amalfi coast:

• How To Get to The Amalfi Coast
• The Best Place to Stay on The Amalfi Coast
• How To Travel Between the Towns on The Amalfi Coast
• 4-Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Tours and activities.

How to get to the Amalfi coast

For this blog post, I will assume that you are travelling to the Amalfi coast from Rome. This is only short trip and is takes around 2 to 4.5 hours depending what option you take. The main ways to get from Rome to the Amalfi coast are by either taking the bus directly from Rome to the Amalfi coast or taking the train to Sorrento and then the bus or train to your accommodation. Below you will find more details about each option.

Taking the bus from Rome to the Amalfi coast

This is no doubt the easiest way to get from Rome to the Amalfi coast. There is a bus that goes directly from Rome’s central station to Positano. The bus runs 5 days a week, leaving Rome at 7am and arriving in Positano at 11.30am (4.5hours). This trip is very easy and the best option if you are already planning on spending the night before in Rome and have a lot of luggage. However, it does take much longer than the other options. The bus costs around 23 euro per person.

Rome to the Amalfi coast by train, bus, or ferry

Rome to sorrento.

Depending where along the coast you are staying, this could be the best way to reach your accommodation! First, you will need to take the train from Rome to Naples. You can book this ticket on the day, or in advance if you are travelling in a busier season). From Naples, you will need to take the Circumvesuviana line to Sorrento. This is more of a commuter train and runs around every 30 minutes. You can either buy the ticket in Rome or Naples. This train can get busy in the summer. When it is so hot outside, it can feel a bit claustrophobic so I recommend trying to find a seat next to the window if you can.

An additional tip for this trip is that you can add in a day trip to Pompeii, the ancient city located half-way between Rome and Sorrento. To do this, you can take the Circumvesuviana to Pompeii, spend a few hours wandering around, and then continue to Sorrento.

Sorrento to the Amalfi coast by bus

Sorrento is sort of the gateway to the Amalfi coast. From Sorrento, there are a few options to get to your accommodation. The first is the SITA bus which runs from Sorrento to Amalfi. You will get to know this bus very well over the next few days. The bus ride takes 2 hours in total and stops at all the different towns along the Amalfi coast along the way. This is a simple option, especially if you are staying somewhere like Praiano where there is no possibility to take the ferry. You will see the bus stop to the right as soon as you exit Sorrento train station. Tickets can be bought at most shops and outlets in the Amalfi area, including at the bus station in Sorrento.

You can find all the information you will need about the bus on this page .

Time by bus from Sorrento to:

• Positano: €2.00 and takes 1hour
• Praiano: €2.40 and takes 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Amalfi: € 2.90 and takes 12 hours and 40 minutes

Sorrento to the Amalfi coast by ferry

Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Sorrento to capri, Positano and Amalfi. This is a much quicker option but also a bit more expensive. To get to the ferry terminal you will need to walk through the town of Sorrento. It is best to buy ferry tickets in advance if you can as they have a limited number of spots available. I have linked each ferry trip below along with their times and prices.

Ferries from:

• Sorrento to Capri : Takes 25 minutes and costs around 26
• Sorrento to Positano : Takes 20 minutes to 1 hour and costs around €22
• Sorrento to Amalfi : Takes 1 hour and costs around €22

The Best Places to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

There are hundreds of different hotels and B&Bs to choose from along the Amalfi Coast depending on your budget. Below I have outlined both where we stayed and a few other options that within each price bracket. Bear in mind that the prices of accommodation along the Amalfi Coast very much increases in peak season. If you are trying to travel on a budget it can be very much worth looking at visiting in the off-season where prices go from €600 to €300 a night.

Luxury Stays Along the Amalfi Coast

• Hotel Villa Franca : This is a dream resort if you are looking for a little luxury on your travels. The rooftop pool and the breakfast balcony alone, looking out over the hills of Positano, make this place worth the money.
• Casa Giovanna Positano: Still on the more expensive side, Casa Giovanna is the perfect place for anyone who wants to stay in Positano, wake up looking over the beautiful coastline, but not pay thousands of euros a night.
• Le Sirenuse : This is a beautiful hotel located centrally in Positano – very well known for its picturesque pool and bright red building that blends into the landscape.

Mid-budget/Affordable Stays Along the Amalfi Coast

Hotel villa bellavista.

This is the hotel we stayed in the second time we were on the Amalfi Coast, and I recommend it with all my heart. Nestled in the cliffs of Praiano, Hotel Villa Bellavista is a beautiful, well-located hotel that feels like luxury at an affordable price. Being in Praiano, a less-visited area of the coastline, the town itself is very sleepy. There are close restaurants nearby and a beautiful bar (there more details on both in the 4-day Itinerary). The cheaper rooms are quite simple – We stayed in a small room with no windows or balcony for only €120 a night (2 people). For this we still had access to the communal balcony/ terrace area where there was a beautiful view.You can find the hotel on this page .

Around the same price range:

• Santiago vacation home in Positano : This holiday home is perfect if you are a bigger group travelling together. Located in central Positano with an incredible view out over the mountain, this property is very much affordable.
• Albergo S. Andre : A very beautiful hotel located in the heart of Amalfi. It is the perfect location to take ferries to other cities and has a beautiful view of the Cathedral.

Budget Stays Along The Amalfi Coast

If you are looking to visit on a budget, the best way can be to stay either in Sorrento or slightly further down the coast. Below are a few options:

Vico Equense – An Amalfi Coast Budget Option

During our first visit to the Amalfi Coast, we stayed in the nearby town of Vico Equense. This is not on the Amalfi Coast, but a little further north, along the line. Our hotel – Giardino 21 Marzo – was a beautiful place, located right on top of the mountain with a pool overlooking the coast. In the mornings, we head to the train station and “commute” to Sorrento (15 minutes) where we took the ferry or bus to explore the different towns of the Amalfi Coast. It was perhaps not the simplest, but it was very budget friendly, and we ended up enjoying our time there a lot. Find the hotel on this page.

A few similar options closer to the Amalfi Coast are:

• Seven Hostel and Rooms : A very affordable hostel in Sorrento with shared dormitories and private rooms. It is the ideal base for budget travellers or solo travellers to explore the Amalfi Coast.
• La Casetta : A very cosy little B&B north of Amalfi. It is not too close to the coast but is very easily accessible with the bus.The location is very peaceful, with a beautiful outdoor terrace. This is the best for anyone looking for a slow, calm vacation in the south of Italy.

How to Travel Between the Towns on the Amalfi Coast

As I mentioned before, there are two ways to travel between the towns on the Amalfi Coast. These are by ferry or by bus.

Travelling the Amalfi Coast by Ferry

The ferries go between all the major towns on the coastline and cost around €22 one way. The ferries can be booked in advance which I recommend (on the day or the day before) especially if you are travelling in the summer. This is truthfully the best option for transport as it is much quicker than the bus and you get beautiful views over the coastline along the trip.

Travelling the Amalfi Coast by Bus

The SITU but which runs from Sorrento to Amalfi is the other option to travel around the Amalfi Coast. The bus is great as it is cheap – around €2 for a single ticket and €12 for a day ticket – and it takes the mountain road so passes all the smaller villages that the ferry doesn’t go to. However, in the summer the bus can get busy, and you might find there is not space on the bus at the time you want to catch it – especially if you are getting on half-way along the bus route in Positano or Praiano.

You can purchase bus ticket at most shops and hotels along the Amalfi Coast. It is worth noting that you should buy one in advance as you cannot buy them on board and in some places, it is quite a distance to the nearest ticket outlet. We bought our tickets from a small shop in Praiano and ended up buying 2-day tickets (we caught the ferry on the other days).

4 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Day 1: beach hopping around praiano.

After travelling for three weeks around the Dolomites , Venice , and a road trip through Tuscany , we wanted to take this part of our trip a bit more slowly. So, we decided to spend day 1 of our 4 days on the Amalfi Coast exploring the town of Praiano as it was where our hotel was located. This day is therefore quite slow but was one of my favourites of our trip. We bought two single bus tickets in the morning for use during the day.

Praiano Town

Praiano is one of the more underrated towns along the Amalfi Coast – but my personal favourite. What it lacks in the beautiful of its neighbours like Positano, it makes up for in character. Praiano is a much less busy part of the coastline with two main beaches and a very small village. Starting the day, we walked from Hotel Villa Bellavista down to the harbour down the Via Terramare Coastal Path. Make sure to stop at the Torre a mare monument on your way past. At the end of the coastal path, you will find yourself in Marina di Praia, the harbour area and one of the town’s best beaches. Spend an hour of so enjoying the beach here .

Fiordo di Furore

One of the most picturesque beaches on the Amalfi Coast is Fiordo di Furore. To get here, you will need to catch the bus from Marina di Praia. The bus takes around 15 minutes. The beach is famous for it being located at the bottom of a canyon, between two steep cliffs, with an arched bridge that runs over the top. To get to the beach, you will need to follow one of the two paths and take the stairs down to the sand.

Lunch at Che Bontà

Che Bontà was our go-to spot for lunch and dinner while we were on the Amalfi Coast (I think we ate here 4 times?). This is one of those places that looks very unassuming from the outside – a very simple restaurant just by the side of the road. We were recommended to go here by the staff in our hotel and were so thankful. We always ordered a pizza or pasta and the green side salad and it honestly amazing – probably the best meal we had during our time on the Amalfi Coast and the best price.

La Gavitella Restaurant and Beach

Spend the afternoon down at La Gavitella beach club. This little beach is the perfect spot for a slow afternoon, sat reading your book and swimming in the Mediterranean water. The beach club takes up most of the beach, with bright orange umbrellas and lounge chairs available for hire. You can book these online or just ask for one when you turn up. However, you do not need to hire a beach chair to swim here. If you walk past the beach club, you will find a small public area where you are free to set up your towel or beach chair for the afternoon.

Sunset drinks at Café Mirante

A visit to Café Mirante  is a must while you are in Praiano. Kind of off the grid, on the coastal path down to La Gavitella, this cocktail bar is a hidden gem. It is the perfect place for a pre-dinner or sunset drink with an amazing view over the coastline. Even on the days we were off exploring other towns along the Amalfi Coast, we always ended up here at the end of the day. 

Dinner at Cialì Bistrot

The other restaurant we were recommended to visit by our hotel was Cialì Bistrot . This is a small restaurant with a very calming atmosphere. The dishes were all complex and thought out – classic flavours served a contemporary way. This place has racked up quite a reputation, so I recommend booking in advance if you want to eat here.

Tours and Activities in Praiano

Day 2: ravello and amalfi.

Day 2 out of 4 on the Amalfi Coast is a day trip to the towns of Amalfi and Ravello. For today’s trip you will either need to catch the ferry to Amalfi, or the bus. From Amalfi there is a separate bus line which takes you to Ravello. Below is a list of the best things to do in Amalfi and Ravello.

Amalfi is the biggest town along the Coast and the one with the most history. In medieval times, a significant shipyard and port, the buildings of Amalfi very much still reflect its past. I recommend spending at least half a day here, so you have time to visit the Arsenale della Republica (medieval port), the Amalfi Duomo, take a swim and meander around the streets. Make sure to also walk around the coast to the smaller town of Atrani. This is a much quieter town and gives more of an authentic vibe.

Things to do in Amalfi

• Visit Arsenale della Republica: Amalfi’s medieval port and shipyard
• The Amalfi Duomo (Duomo di Sant’Andrea): The intricate cathedral in the centre of Amalfi town with a baroque style interior.
• The Paper Museum (Museo Della Carta): Discover Amalfi’s historical past as a centre for the papermaking industry.
• Take a trip at Spiaggia Grande Beach: Amalfi’s main beach close to the city centre.
• Hike around Valle delle Ferriere: This beautiful 6km hike shows the hidden side of Amalfi as you wander through dense forest passing waterfalls and lemon groves.
• Walk to Atrani (15 minutes) for a quieter town

Tours and Activities in Amalfi

In the afternoon head to Ravello. Ravello is known to be the most romantic place on the Amalfi coast, often overlooked as it is not so much on the tourist track. I recommend leaving yourself around 2 to 3 hours to visit Ravello. That is all you need for visiting the beautiful villas and wandering around the town.

Things to do in Ravello

• Wander around the town centre making sure to visit Duomo di Ravello and Piazza Duomo
• Stroll around Villa Rufolo: The 13 th Century villa with beautiful gardens and a view over the coastline
• Visit Villa Cimbrone: The 11th century villa with the famous Infinity Terrace which is one of the best viewpoints on the Amalfi Coast

Tours and Activities in Ravello

Day 3: day trip to capri.

If you have 4 days on the Amalfi Coast something you cannot miss is a day trip to Capri. While technically not on the Amalfi Coast, the island of Capri is a summer paradise, filled with beautiful beaches, viewpoints, and coastal villages. It is the perfect place to take a boat trip out to see the famous rock formation Faraglioni or take a trip to the infamous Blue Grotto.

How to get to Capri

There are several ways to get to Capri. The first being taking the ferry from Positano, Sorrento or Amalfi. The ferries leave once or twice an hour and are quite quick. This is a good option for a day trip if you want transport to Capri but to spend the day doing your own thing.

Ferry times:

Positano to Capri : 30 minutes and €30

Amalfi to Capri : 30 to 50 minutes and €30

Sorrento to Capri : 25 minutes and €26

Capri Boat Tour

On our second trip we took a boat tour to Capri . If you are tossing up between the guided tour or ferry, I would recommend the boat trip. We were staying in Praiano so firstly it was very convenient to be picked up by the tour company at Marina di Praia rather than needing to first catch the bus to Positano for the ferry. This turned out to be the best part of our trip as we were the only guests staying in Praiano. It was like we had a private boat tour around the coast, docking in Positano to pick up other guests before heading to Capri.

The other thing I enjoyed about the tour was it made the day trip to Capri a little more special. Instead of heading straight to the island, we stopped for a swim on the way, circled around Faraglioni, explored some caves, and still got a few hours of our own time to explore Capri. We met some other nice people and had the best day.

You can find the tour we took on this page .

Things To Do On Capri

Visit anacapri.

Anacapri sits on the higher side of the island and is the much more relaxed, slow-paced municipality of Capri. This is my personal favourite area of the island – much more creative with artisan workshops and picturesque streets opposed to the most high-end fashion boutiques you’ll find in Capri town. In Anacapri, wander around the historic neighbourhood of Quartiere Boffe, visit the 16 th century Church of Santa Sofia, and head to the ruins of Villa Damecuta.

How to get to Anacapri

To get to Ana Capri from Marina Grande you can either catch the bus to Piazza Vittoria (15 minutes) or catch a taxi. While this is the cheaper option, from my experience the bus can be very busy, and you can end up waiting for 2 or 3 different buses before there is space for you to get on. The other option is to take a taxi. This is an experience itself – travelling to the peaks of the island in open topped car with the wind blowing through your hair. Taxi’s cost around €25 from Marine Grande port to Anacapri. 4 people can fit in a taxi so we shared one with some others in our tour group to save on cost.

Take the chair lift to Mount Solero

From Anacapri, take the chair lift to Mount Solero. This chairlift is a very special experience, as you sit on a single chair heading up the mountain for 13 minutes. From Mount Solero, there is a beautiful view over Faraglioni and lovely gardens to wander around. Heading back down you can either take the cliff path of catch the chairlift back.

Visit the Blue Grotto

The blue grotto, or Grotta Azzurra in Italian, is probably the most iconic place on Capri – a natural sea cave known for its beautiful bright blue waters. The only way into the blue grotto is by wooden rowboat, where by a skipper guides you through the 60m long cave. Entry to the blue grotto costs €18 and a trip through the cave takes 5 to 10 minutes. The queue, however, can be much longer.

The Blue Grotto is closed to the public when the weather conditions are not optimal. Unfortunately, this has been the case for us on both visits to Capri and I have heard it is quite common on the island. So be prepared that you may not be able to visit the Blue Grotto on your day trip.

Tours and Activities in Capri

Day 4: positano.

If you’re visiting the Amalfi Coast there is no doubt you have already heard of Positano – the most picturesque and vibrant town in the area. Spending at least one full day in Positano is a must during your 4-day Amalfi Coast Itinerary. To get to Positano, you will either need to catch the bus or the ferry, as with all other day trips (unless you are already staying there). As this is the last day of your short trip to the Amalfi Coast, it can be good to also consider fitting in any things you didn’t have time for on the few days before.

Things to do in Positano

Take a swim at spiaggia grande.

The main beach of Positano, this is the best place to swim for that iconic view of the colourful mountaintop houses. However, in peak season it can be a bit of a nightmare here, with only a small area for the public on the very pebbly beach. You can, instead, book a beach chair on the beach for around €20.

Hike the Path of the Gods

An absolute must if you enjoy hiking and aren’t visiting in peak summer when temperatures are soaring, is to walk the Path of the Gods. This beautiful hiking path runs from Positano, past the nearby town of Nocelle and onwards to Agerola, with amazing views the entire time. The trail is a total of 7km (plus the walk up to Nocelle) and takes 2 – 3 hours. If you are hiking in the warmer months, it can be best to do it in the early morning.

If you are worried about the heat or haven’t done much hiking before it can be good to take a guided tour .

Wander around the town

The real charm of Positano is in the backstreets and small boutiques, lined with flowers, bring colours, lemons, and artisan crafts. Make sure to spend a bit of time wandering around, exploring the town, and just taking in the summery atmosphere.

Tours and Activities in Positano

How many days do you need to visit amalfi.

You need at least 3 days to properly visit the Amalfi Coast without rushing your time in each town. This will allow you to visit Amalfi, Ravello, Positano, Praiano, and Capri.

Is 4 nights in Positano too long?

4 nights in Positano is not too long. Positano is the perfect place to base yourself for day trips around the Amalfi Coast. With 4 nights in Positano, you will be able to spend time in the town, but also visit Amalfi, Capri, and the other towns along the coastline.

Is it better to stay in Positano or Sorrento?

Whether it is better so stay in Positano or Sorrento depends on what sort of trip you are looking for. Both are easily accessible with ferries or the bus to take you to the nearby towns, however, Positano is much more expensive than Sorrento.

What is better Cinque Terre or Amalfi coast?

Both the Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast are very special places that cannot be compared to one another. If you want a relaxes beachside vacation with a little luxury then I would recommend the Amalfi Coast, but if you enjoy hiking and something a bit more casual then the Cinque Terre would be the best option.

What are the cheapest months to visit Amalfi Coast?

The cheapest time to visit the Amalfi Coast is in the off season – from October to April. At these times, accommodation can be up to 50% cheaper with more and the weather is often still very pleasant.

The Best 4 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary – Tips and Travel Guide

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful areas of Italy, with colourful hilltop houses, dramatic coastlines, wonderful beaches, and scenic restaurants. This 4 day Itinerary for visiting the Amalfi Coast will take you to the best towns – Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, Capri, and Praiano – as well as some of the best swimming spots.

Exploring more of Italy? Check out these posts:

• 8 Days in the Dolomites
• The Cinque Terre Travel Guide
• 3 week Italy Itinerary
• 2 Days in Venice – The Best Things to See and Do
• Venice to Rome – The Ultimate Tuscan Road Trip
• All Italy Guides

You’ll Also Love

June 2, 2020 at 5:21 pm

This is an amazing guide Katie! I needed something like this to reference for my future trip to the Amalfi Coast. 🙂 Your photos are so dreamy.

June 9, 2020 at 9:10 am

Thanks Taylor! I really hope it comes in useful when you start planning!

June 3, 2020 at 6:06 pm

I love this guide! I’m saving it for my future trip to Italy. I would love to visit the Amalfi Coast and it has been on my list for a long time. Great photos too 🙂

Thanks!! You would love it there! I hope my travel tips help you out!

June 3, 2020 at 6:40 pm

I’m dying to visit Amalfi Coast! This is such a helpful guide Katie ☺️

Thank you! You would love it there I am sure! I hope you get to visit soon!

June 11, 2020 at 10:11 pm

My daughter and I went to the Amalfi Coast last September. It was the most beautiful part of Italy. We stayed at an air bnb on the water. Fantastic views. Loved Capri the most. We also did the chair ride up. So worth it!!! Definitely a place more people should visit

June 29, 2020 at 12:06 pm

Oh that must have been amazing! Was the airbnb you stayed in in Amalfi? I loved Capri too – there is something so special about that island!

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Amalfi Coast Itinerary: How to Spend From 3 to 10 EPIC Days in Amalfi Coast, Italy!

Posted on Last updated: January 11, 2024

Need help planning the perfect Amalfi Coast itinerary? You’ve come to the right place!

In this article I have outlined a detailed day-by-day Amalfi Coast itinerary for a minimum of three days, and a maximum of ten. Including helpful logistics tips like where to stay, how to get around and more.

From the picture perfect Positano, to the hidden coves of Capri Island, there is so much to see and do here, and it makes Amalfi Coast one of the most incredible and beautiful places in Italy.

Despite being Italian, I have to admit I didn’t fully explore this part of Italy until last year. I visited on school trip when I was 11, but I’m very glad I could go back and remind myself of how stunning Amalfi Coast is.

This article will also help you decide how many days you should spend in Amalfi Coast, based on your interests, budget and travel mood.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in, and start planning the perfect Amalfi Coast itinerary for you!

• 1.1 How many days do you need on the Amalfi Coast?
• 1.2 How to get around the Amalfi Coast
• 1.3 Best time to visit the Amalfi Coast 
• 1.4 Where to stay for this Amalfi Coast itinerary
• 1.5 Do you need travel insurance to visit Amalfi Coast?
• 1.6 What to pack for your Amalfi Coast itinerary
• 2.1 Discover Amalfi Town
• 2.2 Go for a dip in the sea
• 2.3 Visit historical villas in Ravello
• 3.1 Visit the iconic Fiordo di Furore
• 3.2 Visit the Pearl of the Amalfi Coast: Positano
• 3.3 Go for a sunset boat tour in Positano
• 4.1 Go on a day trip to Capri
• 5.1 Hike the Path of the Gods
• 6.1 Go on a day trip to Pompeii
• 7 Extend your Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Days 6 – 10

Enjoying a swim at the main beach of Positano in the Amalfi Coast, Italy

Logistical tips for your Amalfi Coast itinerary

Before we dive into the details of by day-by-day Amalfi Coast itinerary, I wanted to give you an overview of useful things to know, so that you can make the most of your time in Amalfi.

How many days do you need on the Amalfi Coast?

You need to spend at least a few days in Amalfi Coast. Even though you can book yourself on a day trip from Rome to see the main Amalfi Coast highlights in one day, I’d say it’s very rushed.

In my opinion, three days is the bare minimum you need in Amalfi Coast, so that you don’t find yourself rushing around to see the best bits.  

Five days is obviously better, and seven days is ideal – it allows you to take your time and to really embrace la dolce vita.

Realistically, you could even spend 10 days here and never want to leave!

Enjoying my private boat trip in Positano at sunset

In this article, I’ve outlined a core itinerary for 3 days on the Amalfi Coast. I’ll then be building on that, adding things to do for 5 days on the Amalfi Coast, and finally for a 7-day itinerary on the Amalfi Coast and beyond.

It’s worth mentioning that this Amalfi Coast itinerary is based on my own experience. I have outlined what I recommend you do if you only have three days, and then what else you can add on if you have five, seven or ten.

While some of the sights I talk about are undoubtedly must-see sights in Amalfi Coast, others are based on personal preference.

As you read this itinerary, you might find yourself more interested in some of the activities outlined on day 5 as opposed to day 3. In that case, you can obviously switch days and activities around.

After all, what features on my Italy bucket list might not be the same as what features on yours! Especially if you’re visiting Amalfi Coast as part of a wider Italy itinerary , you will have to assess what else you want to see.

The view over Positano from the second viewpoint

The iconic view over Positano, Marina Grande Beach and the Amalfi Coast coastline

How to get around the Amalfi Coast

Whether you’re in Amalfi Coast for a 7-day itinerary or if you’re just here for the weekend, working out how to get around should be a top priority. If you’re a confident driver, I would recommend renting a scooter.  

It’s the easiest way to get around, but the roads are very winding. I wouldn’t recommend a car unless you’re visiting in low season, as you’ll be stuck in traffic (or looking for parking) the whole time.

There’s also public transport. High season means buses will be packed, but it’s pretty extensive and you can use buses and trains to get to pretty much anywhere you’ll want to go.

Ferries also connect the main towns; plus, if you book in advance, you get a guaranteed seat. I’d recommend downloading an app like Ferryhopper, which can help you navigate the ferries with ease.  

Enjoying the scenic scooter drives along Amalfi Coast

It’s also worth noting that you might not always need a car or scooter. For example we only rented a scooter for two days, as on the other days we either took ferries or joined organised tours with transfers.

So once you’ve read my Amalfi Coast itinerary, it’s worth deciding how much of it you want to follow, and whether you will need your own wheels or not.

If you’re wondering how to actually get to Amalfi Coast, the nearest airport is Naples International Airport.

It’s not a huge airport, but you can fly there from most European cities, and then either get a private transfer or public transit to the Amalfi Coast towns.

It’s more expensive, but the best way to get to Amalfi Coast from Naples Airport is to get a taxi, as it’s considerably quicker (1 hour vs 2.5 hours via train).

Our ride for our time in Amalfi Coast, Italy

Best time to visit the Amalfi Coast  

Not in peak season! Summer is way too hot and super busy.

On the other hand, winter is cold and rainy, and many cafes, restaurants and hotels will be shut for the season. That leaves spring and autumn; the shoulder season.

The weather is still pleasant in spring and autumn, the beaches and towns are less crowded, and you won’t get stuck in traffic trying to get around.

The closer to summer you go, the nicer the weather will be, and the busier it will be on the Amalfi Coast. Early spring or late autumn is best for fewer people, but the weather won’t always be amazing.

For example, I was there in mid-September, and it was still very crowded, hot and sunny!

Enjoying drives along the beautiful Amalfi Coast, with Positano behind me

Where to stay for this Amalfi Coast itinerary

Deciding where to stay in Amalfi Coast can be tricky. There are so many cute towns, how do you pick one? Personally, I always suggest either Amalfi or Positano, as you’ll be easily connected with ferries and buses.

Here are some great places to stay in Amalfi Coast for every budget.

Budget: Holidays Baia D’Amalfi –  While the words “budget” and “Amalfi Coast” don’t often go together, this affordable hotel won’t wreck your Italy travel budget , and is located right by the harbour.

Click here to book your stay at Holidays Baia D’Amalfi!

Mid-range: Albergo S. Andrea   – This hotel has beautiful views over the Duomo of Amalfi. For an affordable mid-range choice, it doesn’t get much better than this!

Check out prices & availability at Albergo S. Andrea in Amalfi here!

Luxury: Le Sirenuse   – This is the luxury hotel in Positano by definition. With its gorgeous design, impeccable service, stunning views and central position, it’s the perfect place to treat yourself.

Click here to book your stay at Le Sirenuse in Positano!

Enjoying our private boat cruise in Capri, with the iconic Faraglioni Rocks behind us

Do you need travel insurance to visit Amalfi Coast?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your Italy travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

As a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Enjoying the views during our Path of the Gods hike in Amalfi Coast, Italy

What to pack for your Amalfi Coast itinerary

Besides your usual Italy packing list , there aren’t really any specific items I would say are essential for Amalfi Coast. I listed below some things I always recommend, which you don’t want to have to go out and hunt for last minute once you’ve arrived in Italy.

Refillable water bottle – You can drink tap water in most places in Italy, so save money and plastic by refilling your own water bottle.

Sunblock / sunscreen – You could buy this in Italy, but rocking up on day one without having to buy overpriced suncream in Amalfi Coast is much better! 

Sunglasses – Protects your eyes from the sun’s UV rays.

Sturdy, comfortable shoes – There’s a lot of walking around to do in Amalfi Coast, and with uneven cobbled roads everywhere, you’ll want some comfortable, sturdy shoes. 

International adapter – Depending on where you’re travelling from, you might need one of these to charge your electronics in Italy.

Magical Positano at sunset

Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Day 1

Discover amalfi town.

Your Amalfi Coast adventure begins in the town of Amalfi itself. Head out bright and early to explore the sights of this charming coastal enclave, which forms a part of the Amalfi Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site.

First up, there’s the Duomo. Amalfi’s very own cathedral (Saint Andrew’s), which was built in the 11 th century, looks out across the Piazza Duomo. It’s open every day from 10AM to 6PM every day.

Take a while to admire the black and white Byzantine-style façade, take in the frescoes inside and be amazed by the golden ceiling.

In the piazza, you’ll find the Fountain of Andrea, which dates back to the 17 th century. It’s a nice spot to stop for a breather before heading down Amalfi’s warren of picturesque narrow streets.

These alleyways are designed almost like a labyrinth. They say they were intended to protect the city against attacks by pirates.

My boyfriend enjoying the views over the main beach of Amalfi in Italy

The iconic Duomo of Amalfi in Italy

Go for a dip in the sea

After walking around Amalfi you’ll probably be warm, so it’s time to head to the beach! I’d suggest either Spiaggia di Atrani or Lido di Ravello (the main beach in Amalfi is very crowded, whilst these are a little less busy).

Both of them are beautiful spots to soak up some sunshine and splash in the sea.

If you haven’t eaten yet, there are kiosks and beach clubs where you can grab a bite to eat (and/or a drink); you can also rent sun loungers and umbrellas from many of them.

We went to Lido di Ravello and really liked it. Since you have to walk down loads of steps to reach the beach, it was less busy than the others. Plus the water was super turquoise and clear!

Enjoying the crystal clear water of Lido di Ravello in Amalfi Coast, Italy

Visit historical villas in Ravello

After lunch by the sea, head to see some of the stunning villas in Ravello (this is even easier if you’re at Lido di Ravello, it’s just a 15-minute drive).

Ravello is one of the most popular towns in Amalfi Coast, even though it’s not directly on the coast. Located higher up in the cliffs, from here you can see stunning views over the coastline.

The town centre of Ravello is incredibly charming, with cobbled streets and picturesque alleyways, but it’s especially famous for its historical villas.

Villa Rufolo is particularly resplendent, with lovely gardens to wander in the afternoon light.

Exploring the picturesque streets of Ravello in Amalfi Coast, Italy

For sunset, however, head to the 900-year-old Villa Cimbrone and its famous Terrazza dell’Infinito.

There is also a hotel in Villa Cimbrone, and access to its gardens is free for hotel guests or 10 EUR for other visitors. The gardens are vast, with lots of different spots to visit, like the Tempietto di Bacco or Rose Terrace.

But the highlight is without a doubt the Terrazza dell’Infinito. This terrace is lined with unique statues, and has the best views over the Italian coastline. It’s the perfect place to end your first day in Amalfi Coast.

Taking in the beautiful views from the Terrazza del Infinito in Villa Cimbrone, Ravello

Wandering around the gardens of Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, Italy

Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Day 2

Visit the iconic fiordo di furore.

Now that you’ve settled into life on the Amalfi Coast, you’ll be ready for a day lapping up the beauty of the area. Start your second day in the area with a trip to the epic Fiordo di Furore.

Located around 6 kilometres from Amalfi, this stunning natural gorge is billed as the only fjord in Italy, but apparently it’s a river valley (fjords are formed by glacial movement).

Slicing into the rock itself, the Fiordo di Furore has its own little portion of beach, which can be accessed via stone steps.

In the summer months, it’s super popular for locals and visitors alike, with lots of colourful boats bobbing in the bay. There’s also an international cliff diving competition held each July here.

There’s no services at this beach (no sun beds, umbrellas or restaurants). But when we visited there was a man selling (over prices) snacks and drinks. I suggest bringing your own nibbles and drinks for the morning.

Exploring the famous Fiordo di Furore near Positano in Amalfi Coast, Italy

Visit the Pearl of the Amalfi Coast: Positano

Day two on your Amalfi Coast itinerary continues on to Positano. The drive from Fiordo di Furore to Positano is incredibly scenic, so take your time enjoying it as you go!

This polished portion of the coast is well known for its high-end hotels, sea-view eateries and designer boutiques. But despite the glitz and glamour, it remains a charming and picturesque place to spend some time wandering.

There are lots of great things to do in Positano . Start by seeking out the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, with its colourful domed roof.

Inside, the main altar hosts a 13 th -century Byzantine artwork; the Black Madonna and Child. On weekends you may even be lucky enough to see a wedding take place here.   There’s also the 18 th -century Palazzo Murat.

Steps from the church, this historic palace has been turned into a high-end hotel, but even non-guests can visit to take a look around – or have a drink in its lush, sun-dappled patio.

Enjoying the beautiful views in Positano, Italy

Go for a sunset boat tour in Positano

To round up day two, embark on a sunset boat trip from Positano . You’ll get to see the sun dip below the horizon on your very own private yacht, with the option to accompany your romantic cruise with champagne.

We did this private sunset tour from Positano and really enjoyed it. It’s quite expensive for what it is, as it literally just cruises up and down the coast for 1.5 hours, waiting for the sun to go down.

You get served some prosecco and nibbles, but nothing fancy. Still, it’s a very unique experience, which allows you to enjoy the beautiful coastline of Amalfi and perched houses of Positano from a different perspective.

Plus, if you’re travelling to Italy for a special occasion (a honeymoon maybe?) it’s undoubtedly a very romantic and special experience!

Click here to see prices & availability for your sunset boat tour in Positano!

My boyfriend enjoying the view over Positano during our private sunset cruise

Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Day 3

Go on a day trip to capri.

For those who only have 3 days in Amalfi Coast, your final day has come already. So finish up in style and go on a day trip to the iconic isle of Capri .

Located across the Tyrrhenian Sea from the Amalfi Coast, this storied island has played host to Roman emperors and Hollywood royalty alike over the centuries.

It’s easy to make your own way from the Amalfi Coast to Capri. There are a number of fast ferry connections that run throughout the day either from Positano or Amalfi.

Tickets cost around 20 EUR, and journeys take between 30 minutes and 1 hour (depending on where you’re catching the ferry from). There are around 7 ferries per day.

The iconic “Faraglioni” rocks of Capri in Italy

Cruising along the coast of Capri during our boat tour

Make sure to catch the ferry early – this will give you plenty of time to arrive at Capri’s Marine Grande and make the most of your day.  

Start with a boat tour of Capri island itself, and take in the top sights from the coast.

This will include the Faraglioni Rocks, the Green, White and Red Grottoes, with chances to swim and stop off at hidden coves. A trip to the beautiful Blue Grotto is often an optional extra (18 EUR for entry).

Back on Capri, spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the highlights of the island.

These include the Piazzetta of Capri town, the botanical Giardini di Augusto (entry is 1.50 EUR), and marvelling at sweeping views from the viewpoint of Monte Solaro.

Jumping into the crystal-clear water of Marina Piccola in Capri, Italy

Personally, we did our Capri day trip independently. We took the ferry to Capri, joined a boat tour once there and then explored the island and towns alone.

Alternatively, you could also take a tour of Capri if you don’t want to have to worry about transfers and logistics. Here are some of the most popular Capri day trips.

Day trip to Capri from Positano : Starting from Positano, this boat tour includes all of the main attractions on the way cruising to Capri, as well as free time to explore Capri alone.

Click here to book your day trip to Capri from Positano!

Day trip to Capri from Amalfi : This tour is done with a traditional “gozzo” boat and also includes lunch. It’s a great option for those who want a more traditional Capri experience.

Click here to book your day trip from Amalfi to Capri!

The iconic bends of Via Krupp, with the Faraglioni Rocks of Capri in the distance

Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Day 4

Hike the path of the gods.

Our 3 day itinerary in the Amalfi Coast covered all of the must-see attractions, from now on we will go over other beautiful sights in the area that you can include if you have more time.

For those taking longer trips, it’s the start of day 4 on your Amalfi Coast itinerary. Your morning begins with an adventure along the Path of Gods.

This hiking trail is a famous route in the area, and an iconic activity on the Amalfi Coast. It reminded me of hiking the Sentiero Azzurro in Cinque Terre .

Running between the towns of Bomerano and Nocelle, many people also choose to continue walking on from Nocelle and ending up in Positano.

The Path of the Gods hike is around 5.5 kilometres in total, and takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete. It can be a little bit tricky to work out the logistics as it’s not a loop.

For example, I took the bus to Bomerano and then hopped on a ferry from Positano back to Amalfi, and afterwards took a bus back to the town where I was staying.

But logistics aside, it’s totally worth it! The trail is easy to follow and well marked and, along the way, you get treated to amazing views of the coastline from high above (over 600 metres) the sea.

You could opt to go with a guide, which will make the day run smoothly and give you historical insight and legends surrounding the famous trail.

The added benefit of joining a guided tour is that you won’t have to worry about logistics, organising transfers or fighting your way onto crowded buses.

Click here to book your guided Path of the Gods hike!

My boyfriend hiking along the Path of the Gods in the Amalfi Coast, Italy

View of Positano from the Path of the Gods trail

One thing to note is the steps on the way down – there are over a thousand, and it can be tough on the knees by the end, so take it easy.

Arriving in Positano you should head to the beach for a well deserved chill. The main beach is Spiaggia Grande, often seen as the most scenic, but in my opinion, Fornillo Beach is prettier and it’s also a quieter spot to relax.

There are a few beach bars here that are good for sunset. But for the quintessential Positano experience, go for dinner with a sunset view.

Ristorante Don Giovanni has an amazing vine-covered terrace with views of the sea from up high. Closer to the coast is the more down-to-earth La Cambusa, which features delectable seafood platters and sea views.

My boyfriend enjoying the views while hiking the Path of the Gods in Amalfi Coast, Italy

Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Day 5

Go on a day trip to pompeii.

If you want something amazing to do on your 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary, look no further than the ancient ruins of Pompeii ; the jewel the crown of Italy’s ancient marvels.

History fans will be pleased to know they can visit this bucket-list destination on an easy day trip from Amalfi.

To get there, you can either drive (40 kilometres by road) or take the train (21 kilometres by rail). Driving takes around an hour, but there’s parking and navigating to bear in mind.

By rail, catch the train from Vietri Sul Mare Amalfi Train Station. It takes about 30 minutes (price per ticket is around 3-4 EUR). There’s also the potential to get a tour, which means you won’t have to think about transport at all.

Unique views of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius in Italy

The Foro di Pompeii with Mount Vesuvius in the background

I recommend joining a tour of Pompeii, either as an organised Pompeii day tour from Amalfi so you won’t have to worry about public transportation, or just a guided tour of the ruins once you get there.

This will ensure you can get to grips with what you’re looking at, and get a deeper insight into the history and human stories of the ancient ruined city.

Pompeii: Small Group Tour with an Archeologist – This is one is great if you plan to make your own way to Pompeii, and just want an experienced guide to take you around the archeological site.

Click here to book your guided tour of Pompeii with an archaeologist!

Amalfi Coast: Pompeii, Vesuvius, & Wine Tasting with Lunch – Besides the transfers from/to the Amalfi Coast, this guided tour also includes Mount Vesuvius, lunch and a wine tasting! What more could you ask for?

Click here to book your day trip to Pompeii & Vesuvius from Amalfi Coast!

Tourist mode on while exploring Pompeii in Italy

Extend your Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Days 6 – 10

If you have the time and budget, extending your stay on the Amalfi Coast past 5 days is definitely worth it.

The area has so many little towns and other gems to discover, and there are plenty of day trips you can take from here, too.

For 7 days in the Amalfi Coast, for example, I would say you can hit up the local towns of Maiori and Minori. These tiny enclaves are less touristy, still beautiful, and boast a whole host of history between them.

In fact, they’ve been popular getaways since the Roman era.

The beautiful Lido di Ravello beach as seen from the road above

Enjoying the sunset during our private Positano boat tour

Building on the core Amalfi Coast itinerary above, you can also use these extra two days to go on more boat trips.

Set in the Gulf of Naples, the islands of Ischia and Procida are less visited compared to Capri, for instance, but offer up no less stunning coastal scenery and charming towns.

Ischia features Roman ruins, while the tiny Procida has some extremely photogenic pastel-coloured houses.

Enjoying the views over the main beach of Amalfi in Italy

If you’re wondering what to do on a 10-day Amalfi Coast itinerary, you can explore further afield. While not actually on the Amalfi Coast, Salerno deserves some time put aside to explore it.

It’s a lively port city with its own university, the ruins of Roman temples, plenty of places to eat and drink, and an impressive cathedral.

Another town that is definitely worth a visit is Sorrento, which lies on the tip of the Sorrentine Peninsula, and the opposite side to the Amalfi Coast proper.

Here you can enjoy sipping a coffee in its bustling piazzas, wander along its majestic marina, and stroll its history-laden streets.

Positano at sunset

The famous Fiordo di Furore beach in Amalfi Coast, Italy

Final thoughts on the best Amalfi Coast itinerary

And that’s a wrap on the ultimate Amalfi Coast itinerary! Have you been to Amalfi Coast in Italy before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Amalfi Coast is one of the most iconic destinations in Southern Italy, which features on almost every Italy itinerary , and it’s easy to see why. With its iconic perched houses, crystal clear waters and sweeping views, it’s simply stunning.

I hope that this article has helped you plan your perfect Amalfi Coast itinerary. While there are some must-see spots like Positano, Amalfi, the Island of Capri and Ravello, the rest is up to personal preference.

That’s why I left this itinerary quite free, with space for you to shuffle around days and activities. After all, it’s not like Rome , Florence , Venice or Milan , which are must-sees for everyone.

What you decide to spend more time exploring in Amalfi Coast will depend on your personal preference. If you have any questions about planning your perfect Amalfi Coast itinerary, let me know in the comments below!

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Perfect 4 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary

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Amalfi Coast is known as one of the most romantic places in the world. It’s also so picturesque and incredibly beautiful. After two visits, I’ve found the perfect 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary.

When I decided to do a  road trip through Italy , I wanted  Amalfi Coast to be on the itinerary. Mostly because I felt like it was a spot with lots of beaches, and since it was so famous, it must be worth visiting

I’ve officially been to Amalfi Coast twice, first in the summer, and the second time in early fall (which is the  best time to visit the Amalfi Coast !). Once was with a friend and once with my boyfriend. A 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary will give you enough time to see the beauty there.

You’ll be able to find things that are fun, adventurous, and romance to fill your time, that’s for sure! I’ve gone to  Santorini  with friends and  Paris  with my mom, so I guess I like making romantic places, not romantic anymore. Amalfi Coast was a ton of fun with friends, by the way, even without the romance.

PS – I liked  Cinque Terre better than Amalfi Coast. Unpopular opinion? Maybe, but it was way less crowded and a lot of fun. There are lots of cool hostels and bars all throughout the region, too, which makes it a great spot to go with friends.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay

On a budget,  the best option is in Sorrento. Sorrento is a really awesome city with lots to do. I was surprised by how much we loved our little hotel and place along the water. There are a lot of options for  where to stay on Amalfi Coast ,  depending on your budget!

For just $80 a night we had a great breakfast, free parking (on the street), and an awesome view from our hotel. Seriously worth staying here with everything it has to offer at the price. There are also several  hostel options along the Amalfi Coast  if you are looking for that as well.

For an amazing location,  check out  Hotel La Pergola . We paid just $180 for our two nights at a  beautiful hotel  just a 10-minute drive away from the town of Amalfi that included parking, breakfast, was right at a bus stop for easy transport, and a beautiful rooftop. This was a steal, you guys! In summer, the same place is that price per night.

Last summer when I went, we couldn’t even afford to stay in a place with a private bathroom for that cost and ended up staying in Sorrento instead of further away from the main cities.

On my first trip, I stayed at a spot I just wouldn’t recommend. We had no idea how remote it would be and I would not recommend it unless you are willing to climb about 15 flights of stairs to get to and from town. There is also a bus that ran up from town but we never ended up taking it. 

Even then, you’ll have to walk up and down 300 stairs from the top to get down to the hotel. It cost us $200 for the night. We barely slept because of loud music all night long and were woken up at sunrise by the sound of chickens with mosquitos biting us. I was shocked at how unromantic the whole thing was! Plus it was incredibly hot.

The moral of the story is it was a way less relaxing stay than expected, and be prepared to pay a lot if you want an even semi-nice place. Honestly, if I could do it again, I’d either skip staying anywhere else but Sorrento and just ferry or truly splurge for a spot right in downtown. If you can’t get over this view even after knowing about mosquitos and 300 steps, you can  check it out here .

If you’re heading to Amalfi Coast and on a budget, I’d recommend staying in Sorrento . It’s a much more affordable option and accesses other towns via ferries and buses. We chose to do two nights in Sorrento to save some money and one night in Amalfi.

You can definitely stay the entire time in Amalfi and do this same itinerary. Just take advantage of the ferries and buses that are all along the coast. Your hotel can help you by giving you a printed schedule.

A lot more families and groups stay in Sorrento because it’s bigger, more accessible, and has more options for things to do. It also has fewer hills and treacherous driving involved. We stayed at an awesome hotel – Purple for just $89 a night. That’s the view from our room and I was absolutely shocked at how nice this place was for the price! The staff was awesome, parking was super easy, and we were able to walk to everything we wanted.

If you are looking for a more “picture perfect” stay, you will most likely end up paying over $200 for a night and still not be in town (during high season). Places are in high demand in towns like Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello. If you find a more affordable spot, they are typically not walkable, and you will probably have to go up and down a mountainside to get into town. I recommend booking really far in advance if you are looking to do this option.

Driving Amalfi Coast

I cannot say this enough,  driving on Amalfi Coast is not for the newbie or unsure driver. You need to be confident and aggressive to survive the roads. This is true of any drive in Italy you might take. The roads are extremely narrow, and people will fly past you a lot if you decide to go slow. You’ll be driving along cliffs most of the way and in traffic.

Be prepared and confident on these roads. With that in mind, driving is the most convenient. You can easily take buses called the Sita as well and avoid driving, but this would also involve taking a train or bus to Naples then catching the bus to Amalfi Coast.

We drove to the town of Amalfi from  Rome  which takes about 4 1/2 hours.  Renting a car in Italy  is a fairly easy process!

Day 1 Take a day trip to Capri

This is my favorite spot on this 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary! We did a full day, small group boat tour here and it was so much fun. We were on a boat with 8 other people and were able to see the entire island.

It was the perfect way to meet other travelers and see everything there is on this gorgeous island. We saw all the grottos on the tour (we did not go into the blue grotto because of time) and I’ve never seen water so blue! After the grottos, we stopped to snorkel and got hours to explore the island.

We walked up to the heart of town and back down via stairs which were not as easy as we thought they would be! There’s so much to do in Capri , and I’m glad we took some time to walk around and explore. The walk did lead to some great views and we got to see the adorable cabs that Capri is famous for.

Spend time at a beach club while in Capri, and make sure you find some giant lemons. They are really fun to find, and the seeds are a great souvenir to bring home! We spent some time on Capri relaxing at a beach club where you got in for free if you ordered a drink. It was worth it to avoid the crowds and enjoy our limited time there.

Day 2 Sorrento

Hang out on a restaurant pier. Sorrento has tons of restaurants that also have private piers that you can swim off of and relax on the beach chairs at. It’s the perfect set up for a relaxing day!

We hung out at Delfino’s for lunch in Sorrento and had amazing seafood. They’ll bring you drinks all day and you can relax without paying the private beach club price. Other towns have similar spots but you will pay a lot more. Sorrento did not give off the same vibe so I recommend it if you’re on a budget!

After that, we chose to rent beach chairs for the rest of the afternoon on this cheap beach. Right next to Delfino’s is a spot where you can rent a beach chair for just 3 Euros for the day. It was so cheap and a really fun little beach area.

Beach time was ending and happy hour was starting! Sorrento is known for its giant lemons so take some time to head to a Limoncello tasting. Limoncello is everywhere along the Amalfi Coast and for such good reason!

A malfi Coast has giant lemons that produce all different kinds of delicious products. The most famous is the pretty strong Limoncello that can be really delicious! There are spots all over for Limoncello tastings, but I Giardini di Cataldo has a really beautiful set up with tons of lemon and orange trees.

Day 3 Amalfi and Positano

On day three, it’s time to see the best of the famous coastal towns on the Amalfi Coast, Amalfi, and Positano. I really think both are a ton of fun to visit, but Positano is overpriced.

As mentioned, we chose to stay one night right outside Amalfi. Hotel La Pergola was just a 5-minute bus ride or 15-minute walk from Amalfi which made it easy to get into town. We started the day off there taking the water taxi from Amalfi to Positano.

Taking the ferry around from town to town is really easy. Ferries are not much more expensive than the bus and offer spectacular views of the coast. It costs about 12 Euros for a round trip ticket (it does get more expensive the more stops and further you go). There was something special about seeing Positano from far off as we sailed closer. It’s worth it! Also, because it was a city ferry, not romantic!

First stop, Positano. I saw more pictures of Positano than anywhere else along the Amalfi Coast. Positano in Autumn is beautiful and I definitely think that’s the best time to visit Amalfi Coast if you’re planning this trip. I think it’s pretty popular among travel bloggers and I can see why!

Positano was a beautiful place, but we found it to be a bit overpriced. While here, eat some awesome food and enjoy the incredibly cute streets. Walking around the small streets, exploring shops, and seeing the cutest spots was worth it.

The private beach areas were much more expensive here than in other areas. There were spots almost taking up the entire beach there with chairs. You’ll pay 24 Euros for the day (compared to the free ones we had on Capri and 4 Euro chairs we had in Sorrento) and that won’t even get you an umbrella or towel. I was not impressed with the beach area here at all.

Amalfi is actually a town, as well as the name of the region. This confused me when I looked it up at first! It is a really gorgeous town and has a very resort feel to it. The beaches are long, and there are two large harbor areas where boats are docked.

The beach in Amalfi is much cheaper than Positano for just 20 Euros you can rent two beach chairs and an umbrella. Highly recommend. There is also an incredible cathedral located in the middle of town that you can see.

My favorite restaurant on Amalfi Coast is also in Amalfi called Il Tari. Everything we ate there was delicious. I got a whole fish and the sauce was just delicious! We also loved their Amalfi lemon cake. So delicious!

Day 4 Naples and Pompeii

On your way back to  Rome  from Amalfi Coast, head to Pompeii and Naples. Naples holds tons of artifacts from Pompeii that were removed from the town at the National Archaeological Museum. You could easily spend a day or two days in Naples with how much there is to do here!

Naples is also home to the beginnings of pizza, and there are some great spots to grab one. I’d recommend Pizzeria Brandi the home of the first pizza! The Naples cruise port is also one of the largest in the Mediterranean with plenty to do too.

Pompeii  is incredible! I went to Pompeii on my first trip to Italy back in 2005 and was absolutely in love with it. Walking the streets of the city that existed 2,000 years ago was pretty amazing and taking a tour lets you in on every detail that you are seeing. You won’t want to miss  visiting Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.

I’d recommend taking a tour of Pompeii for the full experience. It’s huge, and it can be difficult to know what you are looking at. Here are a few options:

•   Complete Pompeii Experience with Archeologist Guide
• From Naples: Pompeii Ruins & Mount Vesuvius Day Tour

Pompeii is the perfect way to end this 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary. You get history, amazing food, and your last perfect views. There’s way more to Amalfi Coast than people think, and I hope you’re able to make the most of your trip just like we did.

Now you’ve got plenty of ideas for your 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary! I think that spending four days here is ideal and will let you see a little of everything it has to offer. Remember that Amalfi Coast is about relaxing and enjoying the views. It’s just too beautiful for words. Also, can’t forget to think about  what to pack for Italy ! This is a pretty detailed list if you’re looking for some inspo.

Ready to start booking your trip?

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Booking.com : for booking hotels with great prices and affordable options!

Hopper: app for tracking flights and getting a good deal. (code "meghan" for discount)

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How to Spend 4 Days in the Amalfi Coast

No trip to southern Italy would be truly fulfilling without a journey to the captivating Amalfi Coast. Based out of the charming town of Amalfi, this 4-day Amalfi Coast itinerary promises a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

In this blog post, I cover everything you need to know to make the most of your Amalfi Coast adventure, including how to get there, the best time to visit, top places to stay, and a wide range of activities to enjoy along this iconic coastline.

Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission

Where is the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana) is a 55km section of picturesque coastline located along the Sorrentine Peninsula in Italy, stretching from the western edge of Sorrento to the eastern side of Salerno.

This iconic coastline includes charming towns such as Positano, Praiano, Amalfi, Ravello, Minori, and Maiori. Each town along the coast is beautiful and boasts cliffside architecture, beaches, lemon groves and endless views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO world Heritage Site and is iconic for many reasons. With its unmistakable steep cliffs, Mediterranean views, pastel hued villages perched on tiered hillsides, and lemon groves, it’s no wonder this coastline makes its way into every traveller’s wish list.

While the region has gained a reputation for luxury, exploring the coast can remain within reach for budget-conscious travellers with careful planning.

Best Time to Visit the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast’s popularity as a vacation destination peaks during the summer months between June to August. The land and sea temperatures are ideal, causing the crowds and prices to skyrocket. The small, quiet towns and beaches become congested and filled with tourists.

Visiting during the early spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) is a great time to plan your trip. Restaurants and ferries will be fully operational, and the beaches will not be as crowded. Temperatures in the spring hover around 15- 20 degrees Celsius and around 25 degrees Celsius in the fall.

I visited in March and found the weather to be beautiful and the streets quiet. Daily temperatures were around 15 degrees Celsius and perfect for hiking. Hotels were very affordable during this time.

The only issue I had with visiting during this time was that the ferries between the towns (Positano to Amalfi) are not operating and some roads and restaurants were closed for construction. This is still a great time of year to visit if you plan around these closures.

Ferries do not operate during the winter months along the coast, as the sea crossings can be rough. They typically run between the months of April to October. When I visited at the end of March, ferries to the island of Capri were in operation from the town of Amalfi.

How Many days Do You need

The duration of your exploration along the coast depends entirely on your preferences. Most travellers find themselves based in one or two towns and take day trips around the peninsula.

Spending 3-5 days is sufficient to get a taste of the expansive coast, while still not feeling rushed.

If you find yourself with only a single day to explore the coast (which is a shame), my suggestion is to opt for an organized tour departing from Sorrento.

Numerous tour operators provide inclusive packages with lunch and transportation, eliminating the hassle of navigating logistics on your own.

Here are several tours to choose from .

popular towns along the coast

One of the hardest decisions to make while visiting the Amalfi Coast is choosing where to base yourself. Here are some of the sought-after regions to consider for your stay along this stunning stretch of coast:

When people think of the Amalfi Coast, the luxurious Positano springs to mind. Cliffside buildings overlooking the famed Spiaggia Grande create a picturesque and dreamy scene. Bursting with upscale boutiques, gourmet eateries, and artisanal shops, many travellers find themselves walking along the narrow streets of Via dei Mulini, Positano is a lively hub that caters to every traveller’s whim and fancy.

Ravello is a peaceful town tucked into the hills along the coast near Amalfi. While Ravello does not offer direct access to the beach, it compensates with breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Notable villas and viewpoints, such as Villa Cimbrone and Belvedere dalla Torre, grace the town, providing spectacular vantage points for visitors.

Amalfi, though quaint, holds a central position along the Amalfi Coast. Its historical treasures include the Duomo di Amalfi (St. Andrews Cathedral), the Museo della Carta (Museum of Paper), and the Valle dei Mulini (Valley of the Mills). Amalfi also offers easy access to the Valle delle Ferriere, a picturesque nature reserve enclosed in hills and waterfalls.

Praiano, nestled between Amalfi and Positano, offers a serene escape from the bustling pace of the Amalfi Coast. Marina di Praia and La Gavitella Beach beckon as idyllic havens to unwind and soak up the coastal charm. For the adventurous spirits, Praiano serves as a gateway to the renowned Path of the Gods trail, promising breathtaking vistas, and memorable hiking experiences.

Minori/Maiori

Linked by the footpath famously dubbed the Path of the Lemons, Minori and Maiori stand as sister towns along the coast. Despite their modest size, these family-friendly locales provide budget-friendly accommodations and claim the largest beach along the entire coastline. Both towns feature a wealth of historic sites and churches, including the Basilica of Saint Trofimena and the San Nicola de Thoro-Plano Castle.

Where Do you Start

So, which option should you go for?

During my visit to the Amalfi Coast, I opted to stay in the town of Amalfi. It met all my criteria: affordable accomodations, proximity to hiking trailheads, and accessibility to public transportation.

While Positano is appealing, I found the bus system to be more sporadic and lacked information.

In this guide, I’ll detail transportation options for reaching Amalfi, highlight attractions and activities, and suggest accommodations for your stay.

how to get to Amalfi

Most travellers looking to explore the Amalfi Coast begin their journey from Naples. This chaotic, yet lively city can be a little overwhelming for those first entering Italy. As hectic as Naples can be, the city has an excellent transport network connecting either end of the Amalfi Coast.  

By Public Transit

To reach the Amalfi Coast by public transit, you will need to take a train and then a local bus

• Naples Central Station: P.za Giuseppe Garibaldi, 80142 Napoli NA, Italy • Arrival: Salerno • Duration: 40 minutes- 1.5 hours • Price: 5.50 euros

From Naples Centrale, take the train towards the east side of the coast to Salerno. Trains leave multiple times a day for Salerno and the journey can range from 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on your route.

Trenitalia is the main service provider and tickets can be purchased in the main concourse (near platform 18) or online here.

Once in Salerno, you will need to take a local bus (SITA bus). Just before you exit the train station, on the left-hand side, there will be a small newsstand. Bus tickets can be purchased here and usually cost around 2.40 euros.

The SITA bus stop is located steps outside the main train terminal on the right-hand side. The journey to Amalfi takes about 1 hour and is a gorgeous drive.

Check the bus timetable here .

I’d recommend getting to Salerno as early as possible to avoid the crowds on the buses. The earliest train leaving Naples departs at 05:40am.

The drive from Naples to the Amalfi Coast takes less than 1.5 hours. Car rentals in Naples are reasonably priced, typically starting at around 25-40 euros per day.

However, I advise caution if you choose to drive along the coast, as the roads are narrow, busy, and winding. It’s best to leave the driving to a professional if you lack experience navigating such terrain.

By Transfer

An alternative way to access the Amalfi Coast is through private or shared transfer services . While this option may be the priciest, it’s a convenient choice for those who prefer to avoid multiple train and bus transfers.

Transportation in Amalfi

If you are based in Amalfi, SITA bus services the coast and is an affordable option. Their buses depart in a timely manner as well. The only issue I encountered with the SITA bus was finding stores that sold the bus tickets. Tabacchi stores (type of convenience store) are located throughout the coast and sell the tickets.

The main one in Amalfi is in Piazza Flavio Gioia Square, across from the bus stops. Stores are not always open or close at varying hours. I would suggest buying a return ticket at the time of purchase.

I was able to buy a ticket from the bus driver on a return journey but am not sure if that is widely accepted throughout the coast.

SITA provides a list of places that sell tickets here .

Transportation to Capri

Located off the Sorrentine Peninsula, this tiny island is home to some beautiful walks. It can be reached by Naples and Sorrento year-round via ferry. As mentioned earlier, ferry services usually begin from the town of Amalfi in April-October (end of March if you are lucky).

There are various tours that range from half day to full day, private, or group tours. Find amazing tours here .

It takes 1 hour to reach Capri from Amalfi and there are various companies to choose from including NLG, Alicost and Positano Jet.  A round-trip ferry ride can range from 50-60 euros.

Book your ferry here .

ACCOMMODATIONS IN AMALFI

During my March visit, I discovered Amalfi to be quite affordable. However, it’s worth noting that my trip occurred during the off-peak season. Prices may vary significantly depending on the time of year you choose to explore the Amalfi Coast.

I stayed at Hotel Fontana , nestled right in the center of Amalfi. This charming hotel is discreetly situated amid the town’s bustling buildings. Its rooms offer fantastic views and overlook the main square.

This hotel also happens to be conveniently located less than 100m from the main bus and ferry terminal.

Additional Places To Stay

Hotel Bellevue Suite Villa Lara Hotel Amalfi Luxury House

The perfect 4 DAY ITINERARY

This action-packed itinerary promises to get your heart racing, legs aching, and immerse you in rich history. In my opinion, the best way to discover the coastline is by using the network of footpaths that wind their way through and interconnect the towns .

DAY 1: VALLE DELLE FERRIERE/AMALFI/POGEROLA

Spend the morning exploring the beautiful Valle delle Ferriere. This nature reserve showcases waterfalls and ancient ruins from former mills. The trail begins at the centre of Amalfi passing by the architectural wonder of Duomo di Amalfi. Walking the entire length of the main road in Amalfi, you will pass by cafes, museums, and local artisan shops.

The trail proceeds by lemon groves and begins climbing into the hills. The elevation gain is around 500-600m, as with most trails along the rugged coast.

Stop off at Pogerola for lunch and explore the small town before heading back down towards Amalfi. Indulge in some gelato from Piazza del Duomo, then spend the next few hours strolling along the main promenade, admiring the harbor, and eventually finding the perfect spot to relax on Marina Grande.

READ MY FULL VALLE DELLE FERRIERE GUIDE HERE

DAY 2: PATH OF THE GODS: PRAIANO TO POSITANO

Catch an early morning bus ride to either Bomerano (or Praiano if you want more of a challenge), where you will find the trailhead to the world-famous Path of the Gods. This stunning hike hugs the coast, providing endless views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

This trail will pass through the quaint town of Nocelle, where you can have lunch and grab lemon slush at the Lemon Point, before heading through Montepertuso and towards Positano.

Take the final descent into Postiano slowly, before making your way to rest your legs at the ever-scenic Positano Spiaggia. After dinner, catch a bus back to Amalfi.

READ MY FULL PATH OF THE GODS HIKE GUIDE HERE

DAY 3: AMALFI/MAIORI/MINORI/RAVELLO

From Amalfi, follow the footpath towards the quiet town of Ravello. Marvel at the many beautiful villas and ancient churches the town has to offer.

Find lunch and then proceed to the Path of the Lemons trailhead. This trail connects both the sister towns, Minori and Maiori to Ravello. Pass by many lemon groves, terraced hills, and panoramic views of the bay.

Explore either sister towns (or both), enjoying the coast’s biggest beach and walking through the family friendly avenues. Catch an evening bus back to Amalfi after dinner.

READ FULL AMALFI TO RAVELLO HIKING GUIDE HERE

DAY 4: DAY TRIP TO CAPRI

Catch a ferry ride to Capri and spend the day exploring the island. In the morning, take the chair lift from Piazza Vittoria up to the highest point of the island: Mount Solaro. Opt to hike down on the return, passing by Castello Barbarossa.

In the early afternoon, take a boat tour to visit the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto) and/or Faraglioni. If time permits, visit Villa Jovis, the ancient ruins of Emperor Tiberius on the east coast of the island. Return to Amalfi in the early evening.

TIPS FOR THE AMALFI COAST

• If you want affordable accomodations, travel outside of the summer season and aim for early spring. While ferries may not be operational, the weather is still fantastic and fewer crowds.
• Ditch the car: the roads are narrow and dangerous to drive (or walk for that matter). Opt for pedestrian footpaths connecting towns, local buses, or taixs.
• If you want quiet streets and trails, head out before 9am.
• The elevation gains and loses are extreme along the coast. As an avid hiker, I was caught off guard by the gains. Do not underestimate the terrain.
• It’s possible to do a multiday hike along the coast, using the footpaths (and some buses). I’d recommend starting in Maiori and ending in Positano
• Bring cash with you for smaller items like snacks, buses, and treats. Bigger souvenirs or hotels can be paid by card.

Hiking The Path of the Gods: Praiano to Positano

Amalfi to Ravello Walking Guide

Valle delle Ferriere: Amalfi to Pogerola

19 comments.

I absolutely love Italy, but haven’t been to Amalfi yet. While it does sound expensive, it also looks so beautiful!

What an amazing itinerary! The Amalfi Coast is definitely on my bucket list. Saving this for a future trip!

This looks amazing and so dreamy, i dream to go! Hopefully one day soon. Thanks for the ideas 😀

I love the idea of hiking along this beautiful coastline, so much useful information in this guide thank you for sharing.

Italy is one of my favorite countries and I’ve been there a couple of times but not to Amalfi Coast unfortunately. Definitely need to put that on my list, your photos are truly stunning!

I would LOVE to do this hike! Definitely saving for future travel planning! Great post!

Hiking along the Amalfi coast in March looks heavenly! What an brilliant way to explore the area and really get to see those fabulous views! That is a surprisingly large amount of elevation change for relatively short hikes eh!?

Every hike or even just a small walk around the Amalfi Coast usually involves a billion stairs to climb. Silly me thought it would be a walk in the park.

It looks worth all those steps for the views though 😉

It is a DREAM of mine to visit the Amalfi coast! Everything looks beautiful! Thanks for this informative post, definitely saving for later!

I have seen so many posts about Amalfi but never one about hiking there, thanks for introducing me to this option! And wow, those pictures/views!

I absolutely love Amalfi and now feel like I didn’t spend enough time there! A great a guide and beautiful pictures😊

This looks like a pretty ideal way to see the Amalfi Coast!

I’ve been in the Amalfi Coast in Positano and Capri and I absolutely recommend visiting them. Next time I go back I’d like to go for the Path of the Gods hike and stay in a smaller and lesser known town in the coast such as Vietri sul Mare or Atrani.

I’d really like to explore Capris next time!

so stunningly beautiful…would love to visit someday..thanks for the recs.

The Amalfi coast is simply stunning! So charming, and so steep and curvy roads (with a rental)!! 😀

Wow, I imagine hiking along this coast provides such amazing views.

great place to visit, thank you for creating this article

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Amalfi Coast for Beginners: four day itinerary (without a car)

Last summer we spent 4 nights on Amalfi coast of Italy and it was as strikingly scenic as we have imagined it (it was also very crowded – but more about that later).  I have been dreaming about visiting Amalfi coast (Unesco World Heritage Site)  for a long time but was uncomfortable with the idea of driving on steep coastal roads.  Turns out, with a little planning you can visit Amalfi Coast without driving your own car – by ferry, buses or taxi.  There are different ways to plan Amalfi Coast transportation logistics depending on where you plan to base, which towns you are going to be visiting and your budget, of course.  Here I am sharing my planning notes for our 4 nights Amalfi Coast itinerary – you could find useful links to plan your own trip at the bottom of the post .

We came to Amalfi Coast (in the South of Italy on the Tyrrhenian Sea) in search of the breathtaking views- to admire from land and water.  We are beach aficionados- so visiting in the middle of summer – we made sure to spend some time on the beach every day of our trip.   There is of course a lot of history and interesting architecture here- we would have spent more time inside some museums – had we visited in late fall or early spring.

Getting to Amalfi Coast (without your own vehicle)*

Getting to Amalfi Coast (and traveling between the towns) without your own vehicle is entirely possible but requires some planning.

We headed to Amalfi Coast straight from Rome Fiumicino Airport after a transatlantic flight – and opted for a private car transfer with Sorrentotours .  It was not the cheapest option but definitely the most convenient for us (and it allowed us a quick stop in Pompei along the way).

From Rome (and now also directly from Rome Airport), you could take a speed train to Naples (takes about an hour and is very frequent- either on Trenitalia or Italo ; and then switch to a ferry * to take you to your Amalfi base town.  We used the ferry route on our way back from Capri (via Naples) to Rome.  ( For additional transportation options and schedules, scroll to the bottom of the post)

*Note that ferries do not run from November-March. If you are visiting without a car during winter months, you would have to rely on buses or organized tours.

Choosing a base town (or two)

There are 13 municipalities on the Amalfi Coast, but for our first visit I wanted to see the 3 “main” towns of Amalfi, Ravello and Positano and venture to the island of Capri (which is technically part of the city of Naples in Compania region). So, it made sense for us to split our base between Amalfi Town (for 2 nights) and the Island of Capri (another two nights).  We chose Amalfi town because it is centrally located between Positano and Ravello- two other towns we wanted to see in our introductory visit to Amalfi Coast. Amalfi Town is also flat- unlike most other towns on Amalfi coast – which makes checking in/out of your hotel and carrying luggage to the ferry boats to your next destination very convenient.  It’s a very compact town; Hotel Residence in Amalfi Town where we stayed was steps away from the beach, old town, taxi/bus and boat stations.

Our 4 nights (5-day) introductory Amalfi Coast by boat (and taxi) itinerary by day.

Day 1: arrival in rome and transfer to amalfi town . taxi to ravello ..

Overnight: Hotel Residence in Amalfi Town

Our flight from Boston arrived in Rome at 7 am; with a private car transfer from the airport and a quick stop to self-tour Pompei , we made it to our Hotel Residence in Amalfi Town by 2pm.  This hotel, in a beautiful 18 th century building a with a sea view breakfast terrace (there is also a high cuisine restaurant on site) was perfectly located next to the old town on one side and beach, bus/boat/taxi hub on the other. Our balcony had a view over the sea on one side and over the old town and the mountains on the other.

It was a hot mid-summer day, so after a quick jet-legged nap, we went out for a  swim.  The beach in Amalfi Town is very small and not very impressive, but when I snapped a quick photo to share my “disappointment” – to my surprise, my friends were still very impressed!  Apparently, as far as Amalfi Coast is concerned, even if it is “bad” (crowded)- is still pretty beautiful!

Now we were sufficiently refreshed and ready for a visit to nearby Ravello .  This Amalfi coast town is a bit further away and is situated above the coast, so it gets a smaller share of the Amalfi coast visitors and has a more intimate feel to it- earning it a definite place on your beginner Amalfi Coast itinerary.

To avoid taking a very long staircase from the ferry landing, we chose to take a taxi to to and from Ravello (even with taxi sharing it ran us $40-$50 each way for a 40-minute drive).

In Ravello, we planned to visit the 13 th century Villa Rufolo – to explore magnificent gardens with iconic Ravello views (It is also where Boccaccio’s Decameron novel is based).  In the summer, there is a famous music festival taking place- we considered attending but thought it would be too tiring for our first night in Italy. Turns out- the Villa is closed to the public on the the festival nights! If you are visiting in the summer, it is a good idea include the concert at Villa Rufolo to enjoy the music with iconic Amalfi Coast views!

We decided to walk through the old town (high above the coast) to the second famous landmark in Ravello- Villa Cimbrione .  The walk offered beautiful views over gardens and onto the sea but this historic Villa (now a hotel) was also closed – for a private event.  At this point I was very disappointed with myself for not checking right before our visit, but we were generously compensated for our  misfortunes by the gorgeous sea view from our table at Garden Ravello   restaurant.  This is where we cheered the beginning of our Italian vacation and picked into the back of Villa Rufolo’s stage to see musicians’ on their breaks.

Tip of the Day :  Check Villa Rufolo’s and Villa Cimbrione’s schedules in Ravello ahead of time and then re-check just before you take an (expensive) taxi to go there to make sure it is open to the public.

Day 2: Boat to Positano, evening in Amalfi

It was not easy to make it to breakfast on time at our hotel Residence as we adjusted to Italian time, but the views from the breakfast terrace (and the fresh food) was well worse it.  To get to Positano , we took the ferry boat – right outside our hotel.  We checked out the boat schedule ahead of time, but did not buy the tickets (there are several boat companies servicing the route which takes 15-30 minutes and runs several time each hour in the peak summer season depending on the boat).  We did purchase tickets for next day to go to Capri as these could sell out in season, especially for early and late departures favored by the island day-trippers.

Positano strikes you with its famous views right off the boat.  Despite the crowds, I admired Positano views the most out of the towns we visited or passed by on the Amalfi Coast.

In Positano, we first walked to Fornillo Beach along the pass above the sea (it is to the right of the ferry landing if you face the sea) and paid for our sun beds to enjoy a couple of hours on the beach (it was less crowded than on the town’s central beach by the ferry landing).

We then walked up the (many) stairs into the center of town.  We sat in the bar on Via Colombo and admired iconic Positano views.  (You may want to check out Franco’s Bar but they often have lines; other places nearby have same views overlooking Positano from west).

We took one of the afternoon boats back to Amalfi Town where we had dinner plans at the historic Santa Caterina Hotel’s Mare Restaurant (their more “casual” fare).  This hotel is located on the road leading to Ravello (I would not recommend walking there) but they provide a shuttle from the center of Amalfi.  The restaurant was overpriced, but the views were (probably) worth it.

Back in Amalfi Town after dinner, we walked past the Amalfi Cathedral (we sat on the steps but did not go inside this time) and through the center of Amalfi’s old town. (Amalfi Cathedral is famous for its unique mixture of architectural epochs (Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque to name a few – some dating back to 9 th century).  It is something we would take a closer look at when we return to the area for another visit.

Tip of the Day : Check the Boat schedule ahead of time so you know your options but there is no need to purchase tickets between Amalfi Coast towns.

Day 3: Transfer to Capri

Overnight: Hotel Weber Ambassador Capri

On our third day on the Amalfi Coast we moved our base to the island of Capri. We chose Hotel Weber Ambassador on Marina Picolla for its walking distance to the beach.    Hotel provided a shuttle into the center of town – so called Pizzetta – a 10 min drive away.  We used the shuttle frequently (car rental is not practical on narrow Capri roads and probably not even allowed during the peak season).

On day 1 of our 3 day stay, after our “obligatory” daily beach time we took the shuttle to Capri’s main square (“Piazetta) and walked to the Augustus Gardens to admire the views over Via Krupp.

For dinner we booked the Rooftop with the views over famous Fragione rocks in a clear sight.  The cocktail prices here definitely “included” the views- but were worth it for us!

Tip of the Day :  Capri does not have too many beaches so if beach time is important to you, look for an accommodation close to the beach, such as in Marina Piccola area (and bring your water shoes as beaches are rocky here)

Day 4: Anacapri and Boating around Capri

On our second day on Capri we visited Capri’s second town – Anacapri.  Many visitors, us included, find Anacapri to be more atmospheric than the main town – definitely less glamorous.

Our time here was quite eventful- we took a chairlift up Mount Solaris, enjoyed the views from Museo di Villa San Michele  and the scenic overlook facing the Gulf of Naples and then lost ourselves for a bit on the streets of Quartiere Boffe  (or just Boffe) which takes its name from original barrel vaulted homes of the island just off Via Giuseppe Orlandi.  This is the oldest neighborhood on Anacapri.

The architecture lovers will also find several important baroque Churches nearby (the Church of San Michele Arcangelo and Church of Santa Sofia).

In the afternoon we went on a 3-hour boat trip around the island- from Marina Piccola.  We opted NOT to stop at Blue Grotto but enjoyed swimming off the boat and our guide’s narration. We dined al fresco at Panorama Piazetta 5-minute walk from the Piazetta.

Tip of the Day : If visiting Tiberius’s Villa Jovis is important, plan your visit around it’s opening times which are currently Thursday-Sunday (another estate that was closed during our visit)

Day 5: Morning on the Beach, Boat to Naples

Today was our “official” Capri beach day.  We love beaches and try to visit one every chance we get on our vacations.  Given the crowds in the midst of summer, paying for beach bed – was a great way to literally buy a bit of a space to relax in – so we reserved this experience for final morning of our Amalfi itinerary.  We booked a ferry to Naples for 5 pm and enjoyed a good number of hours at the beach.  Food choices on Italian beaches are typically plentiful and Marina Picolla was no exception.  The water was very pleasant and the backdrop of the rocky coast on one side and Faraglione rocks on the other was spectacular.  So much so that my teen said it was her favorite trip experience despite the crowds.

From Capri we took a boat to Naples to continue our Italian trip in Rome, Senigalia and Tuscany.

Amalfi Planning Tips

• You probably don’t need to pre-book a ferry ticket between Amalfi Coast towns, but early and late ferries may sell out so if you are planning a day trip to Capri, you may want to buy your tickets several days ahead.
• Beach weather and swimming season are best enjoyed June to October (which is also when it will be the most crowded). The ferries run April-October (and are more frequent in the summer). Here is a link to schedules .
• Remember that Ravello is located above the sea and offers magnificent views from its coastal gardens and is also a home to summer music festival.
• Positano offers the most iconic Amalfi Coast views but you would need to navigate many stairs (with your luggage) if you plan to stay there (especially if you are arriving by boat).
• Keep in mind that occasionally boats are cancelled due to weather so it is a good idea not to plan your visit to Capri right before your flight home.
•   Note on buses : Amalfi Coast is serviced by Sita Sud bus company- here is the link to their timetable (in Italian). It is a more budget friendly option than boats and taxi but for our short Italian vacation we simply preferred boats where possible.

Additional Options on Getting to Amalfi Coast

Some travelers choose Sorrento as a base for Amalfi coast travel (by a ferry or buses). You could also drive or take a (longer) train ride from Rome to Sorrento (it’s a shorter ferry ride from Sorrento to Amalfi towns (than from Naples).  Yet another option is a speed (about 2 hour) train from Rome to Salerno which is situated on Southern Amalfi Coast, bit further from Positano.  There is a SITA bus between the towns on Amalfi Coast.

Useful links

Boat Schedule Amalfi Coast

Sita Sud Bus Timetable

Amalfi Coast Hotels via booking dot com (booking with this link will not cost you extra but we may receive a small commission to support this site)

(we stayed in Hotel Residence in Amalfi Town

Hotel Weber Ambassador Capri

15 thoughts on “Amalfi Coast for Beginners: four day itinerary (without a car)”

This was great! Thanks for creating and documenting your journey. Very informative.

Wish I’dxseen your itinerary sooner! I visited Almalfi Coast this summer but only had “3” days. Didn’t drive but instead took the train from Rome to Naples then a ferry from Naples to Solerno which was my base town. Took an “unscheduled” boat cruise from the Solerno dock all the way down the coast to Positano taking in the breathtakingly views along the way! Returned and took a day trip the next day to Capri and the “lift” on Capri to Anacapri. It was a day trip full of “window shopping” and lunch at a lovely rooftop restaurant and Augustus Garden w/the iconic views of the two rocks and winding road before heading back on the ferry to Solerno where we then took the ferry back to Naples. Slept overnight tgen train next day back to Rome!

Sounds like you had an amazing time!

I am interested in exploring the Amalfi Coast for 30 days in early spring 2024. We would like to book accommodations that has 2-3 bedrooms and baths and take day trips from that central location. Could you make a recommendation for a good option to stay for this extended period? Thank you.

I am not an expert on apartment hunting in the area but as for the town bases, there are probably more reasonably priced options in (bigger town of) Sorrento. It is not technically on Amalfi coast but it is a faster ride to Capri (then from Amalfi town) and not too bad to Positano or Amalfi by ferry.

Is early November ok to visit. Any advice

Any time is gorgeous but early November you most likely will not be able to swim

My wife Mary and I were on the Amalfi coast last October. We ate at the base of the Amalfi cathedral in your photo. What memories. We are definitely going back . So beautiful.

Thank you for stopping by and sharing your memories! It is a special place indeed! Italy is calling me back again and again!

Such a beautiful area, would love to spend 6/7 days there. Hope to go in Sept. 2024

That sounds like a great amount of time to explore other towns as well (outside of 3 “main”) and Capri

so fabulous, thanks for all the information….

Thank you Victoria for sharing your beautiful family trip, experiences and information about Amalfi with us. My wife and I are planning for our trip to Sorrento next month so I am very glad to have come across your helpful blog.

Hello – I have a few questions for a trip I am planning next year. and would appreciate your feedback. We plan on staying in the town of Amalfi. 1) Would you recommend Capri for more than one full day if not interested in the beach? 2) Was it difficult traveling by ferry to Capri, and then to Naples, with your luggage? 3) We have heard it is less expensive to stay in Sorrento. Since you stayed in Amalfi, would you say it is worth to stay in Amalfi over Sorrento? We have been looking at the same Amalfi hotel as you stayed. Would you recommend it?

Thank you so much! Linda

Hello Linda, I can’t weigh in over staying in Sorrento vs Amalfi but I was happy with choice of hotel and its central location on the Amalfi coast. As to Capri- while there is definitely more to do than just filling a day trip (we didn’t get to villa ruins for example- it has a difficult schedule to fit into)- you are spot on about questioning the ferry-luggage situation. We traveled with a preteen in the peak season and i was very uncomfortable getting on the ferry in Capri with luggage due to crowds, lack of space on the platform and general chaos! I know people who decided to leave their luggage on mainland and overnight with day bags on Capri. Perhaps if you are traveling in the shoulder season it is less of a concern

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16 tips for planning your trip to the Amalfi Coast

Apr 2, 2022 • 6 min read

Italy's Amalfi Coast lures visitors from around the world © MNStudio / Shutterstock

The vertiginous and craggy Amalfi Coast and its three island outposts of Capri, Ischia and Procida have been a magnet for visitors since Roman times.

Hemmed in by high mountains, the coastal towns on this seafront stretch are physically unspoiled, and they retain an evergreen appeal despite the inevitable tour groups. If you avoid high summer, when visitors arrive in peak numbers, a trip here will be a scenic, artistic and culinary delight.

From where to visit and when to enjoy the best weather to how to get around, here’s all you need to know as you plan your fantasy trip to the Amalfi Coast.

Best places to visit on the Amalfi Coast

Feel the timeless pull of sorrento.

A small resort with a big reputation, Sorrento is a town of lemons, high-pedigree hotels and plunging cliffs that cut through the heart of its historical core. Tourism has a long history here: Sorrento was a compulsory stop on the 19th-century “Grand Tour,” interest in the town having first been sparked by the poet Byron. A long line of vacationing literary geniuses followed in his footsteps to take the warm Sorrentine air. The romance still persists.

Savor the photogenic drama of Positano

Dramatic, deluxe and more than a little dashing, Positano is the Amalfi Coast’s front-cover splash, with vertiginous houses tumbling down to the sea in a cascade of sun-bleached peach, pink and terracotta. No less photo-worthy are its steep streets and steps, flanked by wisteria-draped hotels, smart restaurants and fashionable retailers.

Visit Capri for timeless and beautiful luxury

Capri is beautiful – seriously beautiful. Steep cliffs rise majestically from an impossibly blue sea; elegant villas drip with wisteria and bougainvillea; and even the trees seem to be carefully manicured. Long a preserve of celebrities and the super-rich, this small, precipitous island off the west end of the Sorrento Peninsula has a tangibly deluxe feel.

Enjoy some of Europe’s best hotels at Ravello

A hilltop garden paradise, Ravello is famous for its music festival and incomparably swish hotels. Founded in the 5th century as a sanctuary from barbarian invaders fresh from sacking Rome, this lofty Amalfi town was built, in contrast to other Amalfi settlements, at the top of a hill rather than down on the coast. It’s second only to Positano in its style and glamour.

Get a taste of ancient life at Pompeii

The ruins of Pompeii are a veritable time machine, hurling visitors back to the time of emperors and Latin chatter. Here, time remains paused at 79 CE, the city's frescoed homes, businesses and baths still waiting for their occupants to return. Few archaeological sites offer such an intimate connection to the past, and few are as deeply haunting and evocative.

When to go to the Amalfi Coast

On the Amalfi Coast (as everywhere), picking the perfect time to visit makes any trip better. Here’s a seasonal breakdown of what it’s like to visit the Amalfi Coast in each season.

Expect wildflowers and fewer crowds in spring

Spring is wonderful in this region, as swaths of bright wildflowers dot the landscape. June generally delivers summer heat without the August crowds and traffic.

Summer is peak season for culture – and crowds

This is a great time for cultural events, but high summer sees narrow coastal roads clogged, soaring temperatures and the occasional frayed temper. It’s best to avoid July and August, which is the month that many Italians take for their annual vacations.

Consider fall for optimal hiking and swimming

You can find decent deals on accommodations in fall after school starts and many people are back to work. It’s a great time for hiking and swimming, as the weather and water remain pleasantly temperate. Bountiful seasonal produce includes mushrooms, black truffles and chestnuts.

Things get sleepy come winter

Many hotels, restaurants and attractions are firmly closed from November until Easter. Boat and ferry services are limited.

When is the best time to go to Italy?

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast

The Italian region of Campania has been looking after visitors for centuries. Competition is fierce, and standards of service are high. Whether you’re honeymooning or backpacking, you’re likely to find a warm welcome, enhanced by a room decked out with local tiles and maybe even a lush garden.

With five days, you can take in the highlights of the Amalfi Coast. Consider a night or two on the volcanic garden island of Ischia , then spending the rest of your time at one of the coastal gems – Sorrento, Positano or Amalfi – with day trips to explore the splendors of Pompeii, Ravello’s gardens and some mountain scenery. At any time of year, it’s best to book ahead; bear in mind that demand for rooms is sky high in the summer.

The region does high-end tourism like nowhere else. Some of our favorite posh accommodation options include the venerable Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria in Sorrento and Capri’s opulent Grand Hotel Quisisana . Midrange B&Bs also excel: we’ve happily laid our heads at Casa Giovanni da Procida , La Fenice in Positano and hillside Ercole di Amalfi . There are some great hostel and camping options too: try Positano’s Hostel Brikette or beachside Camping Mirage on Ischia.

Best things to do on the Amalfi Coast

Nothing beats renting a boat.

Nothing makes you feel more like a millionaire than having your own boat, even if it’s just for a couple of hours. Try Banana Sport if you’d like to make a sea circuit of Capri.

Go swimming in the azure Mediterranean

From Ischia’s thermal beaches to Positano’s Spiaggia di Fornillo, the Amalfi Coast is perfect for water babies. Just be careful how deep you dip your toes into the hot spring at Baia di Sorgeto  – the water is thermally heated.

Walk the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei)

You need strong legs and a head for heights to walk the legendary Path of the Gods , which offers dizzying sea views.

Feast on just-caught seafood

You’ll find spaghetti alle vongole (with fresh clams) on practically every menu in the region. Another seafood special is tuna, best eaten in Cetara , which hosts an annual tuna festival.

How to get to and around the Amalfi Coast

While most visitors fly into Naples , taking an overnight train is a romantic and eco-friendly alternative from many European cities. 

Driving through the region can be a hectic experience. It’s best to get around by public transport or hiring a driver –  unless you have a penchant for zigzag bends, cavalier passing and buses swinging at you from the opposite direction.  A network of ferries connects the coastal towns along the Amalfi Coast with Salerno, Sorrento and Capri. Connections to Naples, Ischia and Procida can be made via Sorrento or Capri.

The Circumvesuviana train line connects Naples with Herculaneum, Pompeii and Sorrento – it’s scruffy but fairly efficient and extremely cheap. As an alternative, take the Campania Express train. It is a bit more expensive and runs less frequently, but as it stops only in Naples, Herculaneum, Pompeii and Sorrento it makes for a much more pleasant journey. Nipping up and down the coast, circling Ischia and linking Capri’s towns, buses are a bargain – although some travelers might find the local driving style and crowds a little hard to stomach.

You might also like: Valleys, villages and vertiginous views: the Amalfi Coast's best hikes Forget Capri: the undiscovered island of Procida awaits Why Trieste will be Italy’s next big destination

This article was first published May 24, 2019 and updated Apr 2, 2022.

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The Perfect Amalfi Coast 4 Day Itinerary

Disclaimer : This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission. I will only recommend products and services that I would [or currently use] myself.

Italy’s Amalfi Coast is a one of the most popular destinations in Europe, and for good reason. Not only do you get some of the most beautiful views in the world, you also get to experience the amazing food, culture, and lifestyle of the beautiful southern Italy region of Campania.

After having visited five times now, I’ve made the perfect Amalfi Coast 4 day itinerary that I now want to share. This includes the best places to go, the best restaurants, possible day trips, transportation, and the best time to go. If you follow this, I am confident that you will maximize your experience on the Amalfi Coast.

Who is this itinerary for?

Someone who:

• Is more budget conscious
• Is relying on public transportation , the best option to both save money and eliminate the stress of driving the narrow roads and parking on the coast (it’s always scarce)
• Prefers more local experiences instead of hitting the high tourist points. While this itinerary does include short visits to Positano and Amalfi, I purposely excluded a visit to Capri
• Doesn’t mind staying in a quieter area

Jump-to sections:

• Where to stay
• What time of year
• Day 1: Getting there and arrival
• Day 2: Hike and Positano, or Boat Cruise
• Day 3: Ravello, Minori, Maiori
• Day 4: Free Day
• Day 5: Departure

WHERE TO STAY?

In this itinerary, I have you staying in the coastal town of Vietri sul Mare , the is the perfect place for a home base. It’s beautiful, has great restaurant options, a beach within a short walk, and it has a local feel (i.e. non-touristy) that you can’t find in some of the more popular towns like Positano or Amalfi. It’s also the only one of the coastal towns with a train station . However, Vietri sul Mare is not a place for nightlife (but nowhere on the Coast really is). If you prefer that, staying in Positano may be more suitable. Keep an eye out for a separate article soon for that itinerary.

I prefer to use  Booking.com for finding a place to stay. It has everything from hotels, rooms, houses, and hostels. I recently stayed at  La casetta di Ilma and couldn’t have been more pleased with the place and the amazing host.

WHAT TIME OF YEAR?

The summer months are the hottest and busiest times of year on the Amalfi Coast, the high season being in July and August. November is in the rainy season, though I have lucked out with perfect weather in November (cooler, as I prefer). However if this is a once-in-a-lifetime vacation for you or your first trip to the Coast, the best time to go to the Amalfi Coast is May or September . Those months will most likely have the best weather and bearable crowds. If you intend to swim however, the water will likely still be too cold in May.

Day 1: Arrival

If you are flying into Italy, the nearest useful airport to the Amalfi Coast is Naples International Airport (NAP). From there, I suggest you take Alibus ( online tickets ) from and to the following stops: Bus Terminal  to  Naples Central Train Station . Unfortunately, there is no train or tram from the Airport. When you arrive at Napoli Centrale, take a train from Napoli Piazza Garibaldi (the subway station) directly to Vietri sul Mare-Amalfi (you can buy tickets online at Trainline ).

If you are taking a train from another city such as Rome, you’ll want to take it to Salerno, then take a short train from Salerno to Vietri sul Mare (train tickets from Rome to Vietri sul Mare here ). 

Pro tip – Napoli Centrale (the train station) and Napoli Piazza Garibaldi (the metro/subway station) and are basically in the same location, they just couldn’t make it easy for us and call it by the same name.

When you arrive in Vietri sul Mare, find your nearest tabaccheria (like this one ) and and buy 8 or 10 SITA Sud bus tickets (for a couple). Look for the big “T”.

Then, take the rest of the day and just chill out, walk around town, and people watch.  Dinner recommendations: Lamè Trattoria (pasta, seafood, friendly staff), Ristopub Sud Est (casual pizza and fried seafood), Passariello Cantina Mediterranea (seafood, pasta, tucked away, cozy atmosphere). If you have time, walk down to the beach.

Day 2 (first full day): Amalfi, Path of the Gods, and Positano

For the first full day, you should hike the Path of the Gods, book-ended by visits to the town of Amalfi and Positano. The Path of the Gods gives you the best views of nearly the entire Amalfi coast. I have a separate article dedicated to it, including an itinerary, which I highly recommend you read beforehand. Take a ferry from Vietri sul Mare to the town of Amalfi (ferry tickets on  DirectFerries ). Enjoy a cornetto, coffee, maybe a cuoppo d’Amalfi and walk around before you catch a bus to Bomerano, the starting point of the hike. Note that during peak season, the buses will be very crowded.

You’ll finish the hike in Positano. There, you can walk around, snack, do some shopping, swim (weather permitting), etc. If you happen to find yourself in Positano at lunch or dinner time, I cannot recommend enough the restaurant C’era una Volta  (take a bus up).

A lunch option that I sometimes settle for if I want table service (as it doesn’t close for afternoon hours) is La Pergola. The food is good but not great, and it’s about twice as expensive as it should be, but it works.

When I just want a casual lunch to go, I go to the small grocery store Delicatessen Di Cinque Emilia for a sandwich and beer (cheapest food in Positano!).

Take the ferry back to Vietri sul Mare from Positano. Ferry tickets online at DirectFerries.

If hiking isn’t your thing but you still want to see Amalfi and Positano, consider doing a boat tour from Salerno ( online ticket link ) which stops at both Amalfi and Positano. To get to Salerno from Vietri sul Mare, you can take a 15 minute bus ride from bus stop Vietri sul Mare  to  Piazza della Libertà , using the SITA Sud tickets you definitely bought when you first arrived on the coast.

Day 3: Ravello, Minori, and Maiori

For the second full day, after you have coffee and people watch in Vietri sul Mare, take a bus or rent a scooter and go walk around and have lunch in  Minori or Maiori. I rented from Rent da Matteo in Vietri sul Mare, and it was about 45€ for the day. Restaurant suggestion: Taberna 33 Bistró (spectacular meal-sized bruschetta options, great pasta, and friendly staff). 

After lunch, take a bus or scooter up to Ravello . If you take a scooter, park  here along the road with all the other scooters. If you take a bus, you’ll have to first take bus 5120 or 5020 to Amalfi (the hub of the Amalfi Coast buses – have patience here), then change to bus 5110 and take it from Amalfi to Ravello .

In Ravello, check out the beautiful gardens at Villa Cimbrone  and  Villa Rufolo  and walk around the shops and have a coffee.

Disclaimer : If you have never driven a motorcycle or scooter, or plan on drinking, I do not recommend a scooter rental on the Amalfi Coast. No joke, last week I called an ambulance after a young couple from the U.S. riding tandem on a Vespa took a turn too wide and went into a wall. At least their honeymoon had a good story.

Back in Vietri sul Mare for the night, have a late afternoon aperitivo near the water then have a delicious yet casual dinner at Cerasella Bistrot & Drink,  or try any of the options mentioned for Day 1.

Day 4: Free Day Options

This is your free day! Spend the day in Vietri with a long lunch followed by a nap on the beach, go to Salerno, or if you’ve got some extra time and energy, take a day trip to Naples . 

Why Naples? I’m biased – it is one of my favorite cities. I recently took my dad and aunt to Naples (on a day trip from Vietri sul Mare) and they genuinely had a great time. 

See my posts  One Day in Naples: The Perfect Itinerary and Things to do in Naples.

Getting to Naples is very easy from Vietri sul Mare. Simply take a train from Vietri sul Mare-Amalfi directly to Napoli Piazza Garibaldi (tickets online at Trainline – about 6€ each way). I do not  recommend doing this on a Monday or Friday, because if there is a train strike, it will be on one of those days and you do not want to get stuck in Naples.

Notice I didn’t recommend Pompeii here. Why? It’s a sea of tourists and overrated. There I said it. If you have your heart set on it, I recommend doing a guided tour like this one . Otherwise, it will quickly appear as indistinguishable roads and once buildings. In sum – it’s worth it if you have extra time or live in Italy, but I wouldn’t carve out precious time from a short vacation to go to Pompeii.

Day of Departure

If you’re going back to the Naples Airport, you can take the same train as day 4 from Vietri sul Mare-Amalfi to Napoli Piazza Garibaldi, then take Alibus to the airport.

If you’re going back to Rome, I suggest taking the short train from Vietri to Salerno, then taking the high speed train from Salerno to Roma Termini (online tickets on  Trainline ).

I sincerely hope you got value out of this itinerary. The Amalfi Coast is truly one of my favorite places in Italy. From the natural beauty, food, language, warm people, and spectacular views, it has so much to offer.  

If you have recommendations of your own or have suggestions on what else you would like to see covered here, please write in the comments below. Additionally, if you’re planning a trip to Italy for the first time and need one-on-one support or guidance, check out my  services  page where you can get in touch with me.

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• Naples Recommendations
• Path of the Gods Recommendations
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Blog Amalfi Coast and Naples The Amalfi Coast: a fantastic 4 day itinerary

The Amalfi Coast: a fantastic 4 day itinerary

How much time do I need to see the Amalfi Coast?

…. is a question I get all the time.

It depends on your interests and travel pace, of course, but here are five things I would definitely include in an Amalfi Coast itinerary. All of this is feasible in about 4 days. Plug in some incredible hotels and restaurants and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable trip!

Which town should you stay in on the Amalfi Coast, you might ask? We have advice.  Or, let us plan it all for you!  Contact us to put together your  custom vacation . We’d love to design a unique itinerary or just book the one below for your small group!

Visit the iconic towns of the Amalfi Coast

Spend time getting to know the picturesque towns of Positano, Amalfi and Ravello: walk through Positano’s narrow streets and get some custom leather sandals made. Walk along its main beach, the Marina Grande, or take the path to the less busy Fornillo beach.  Visit the gorgeous Duomo di Sant’Andrea  in the town of Amalfi; get a sense of the town’s history by visiting the paper museum; get lost in the small streets of Ravello while you browse ceramics stores and enjoy the views.

See the Amalfi Coast from the water

Take a boat between Positano and Amalfi to see the gorgeous coast from the water. Or, from Positano, just take a boat to  Da Adolfo for lunch and then enjoy some beach time. There are lots of boats that run up and down the coast during high season, and of course you could even take the ferry to the island of Capri for the day. Or, book a full-day boat excursion that includes a few hours on Capri and lots of time exploring, snorkeling, and swimming in and around the gorgeous caves and coves on the Amalfi Coast.

Taste what the Amalfi Coast has to offer

There are so many ways to enjoy the tastes of the Amalfi Coast: take a cooking course in Ravello with the deservedly famous Mamma Agata.   Sample local foods of Positano on a guided walking food tour ( what’s a food tour? you might ask). Visit a limoncello producer who will take you on a tour of the orchard, show you how limoncello is made, and of course give you a taste or six! If you enjoy high-end dining with wispy sugar sculptures on your dinner plate, and multiple wine glasses and sets of utensils, book a table at Don Alfonso  which has a couple of Michelin stars. Or, let me make you reservations at my favorite local places!

“Ravello” by Titus via Flickr, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

See the iconic views of the Amalfi Coast

Don’t spend all your time down at sea level – go up those coastal hills to see the spectacular views of the coast from above. One of the most famous views is from the terraces of the gardens in the town of Ravello. We recommend starting with the gardens of the Villa Cimbrone and the Villa Rufolo.

Hike one of the many scenic trails on the Amalfi Coast

One of the most famous hikes on the Amalfi Coast is the 2.5 hour section of the Path of the Gods trail that goes between the towns of Bomerano and Nocelle, in the hills above Positano. I highly recommend this spectacular and relatively easy walk, but there are hundreds of paths in the area. Ex hiking guide Giovanni Visetti is a wonderful source of information: his website has detailed information, photos, maps and videos of many hikes — in English!

And…Visit the Archaeological Site of Pompeii

Pompeii is not technically on the Amalfi Coast, but it works well as a stop on your way. The Amalfi Coast is known for its coastal beauty and small towns, but the area is an archaeology buff’s dream. To get an idea of the sheer number of archaeological sites in this part of Italy, scroll down and look at the map on the Campania Arte Card website .

The excavation of Pompeii is the most-visited of all of these sites, with about 3 million annual visitors. (The equally impressive site of Herculaneum, which is virtually next door, gets one-tenth of that number. So if you want to avoid crowds, skip Pompeii and visit Herculaneum instead). Pompeii is a somewhat long day trip for travelers based near the towns of Amalfi or even Positano, but works well as a ~3 hour stop on your way to or from the Amalfi Coast. And they do have luggage storage.

An Amalfi Coast itinerary of about 4 days

Now let’s put that all together: spend a half day each in the towns of Amalfi, Ravello and Positano; a half day at a cooking class and a half day hiking; a day on a boat; some beach time near Positano, and visit Pompeii on your way in or out. Say it with me: fantastico !

Italy Beyond the Obvious will help make your trip truly memorable. Take advantage of our Italy trip planning services for a customized itinerary.

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