Introduction

Welcome to the Amalfi Coast, where the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean meet sun-kissed cliffs dotted with colorful villages. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the Amalfi Coast offers a slice of paradise with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.

This blog post unveils a meticulously crafted Amalfi Coast itinerary that guides you through three magical days exploring Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and the enchanting island of Capri. Plus, discover essential travel tips, the best local accommodations, and exciting day trips to enhance your experience.

From the winding streets of Positano to the historic ruins of Pompeii, each day is filled with awe-inspiring sights and unique experiences. Our itinerary ensures you soak up the local culture, cuisine, and breathtaking beauty of this iconic Italian coastline. Whether you’re lounging on sun-drenched beaches, savoring authentic Italian dishes, or strolling through ancient streets, the Amalfi Coast promises an unforgettable adventure.

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Useful Resources Going Abroad

Useful Information for your Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Getting Around

• Public Transport: The SITA buses are a reliable and scenic way to travel between towns along the Amalfi Coast. Tickets can be bought at local tobacco shops (Tabacchi) and must be validated on the bus.
• Ferries: For a more scenic route, consider the ferry services that connect major towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Capri. Not only do they provide quick transport but also offer a refreshing view of the coast from the sea.
• Driving: Renting a car offers flexibility, but be prepared for narrow, winding roads and limited parking spaces. Driving on the Amalfi Coast can be challenging, especially in the high season.

Best Time to Visit

• The optimal times to visit the Amalfi Coast are during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October. These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more enjoyable sightseeing opportunities compared to the bustling peak season in July and August.

Cultural Tips

• Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, ensure to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
• Local Cuisine: Embrace the local dining culture by trying limoncello, a traditional lemon liqueur, and enjoying leisurely meals. Dinner typically starts later than in many other countries, often not before 8 PM.

Top Hotels on the Amalfi Coast

1. Le Sirenuse, Positano

An iconic hotel in Positano, Le Sirenuse boasts breathtaking views of the Mediterranean from its elegantly furnished rooms. The hotel also features a Michelin-starred restaurant, La Sponda, illuminated at night by 400 candles, creating a truly magical dining experience.

2. Hotel Santa Caterina, Amalfi

This luxury hotel offers a slice of paradise with its private beach access and cliffside gardens. The rooms provide serene sea views, and the hotel is known for its excellent service and exquisite dining options that highlight local flavors.

3. Belmond Hotel Caruso, Ravello

Perched atop a hill in Ravello, Belmond Hotel Caruso offers a historic stay in a former 11th-century palace. The hotel’s infinity pool seems to float above the coastline, offering one of the best views in the region. The refined elegance and unparalleled service make it an exceptional choice for those seeking a luxurious retreat.

Day 1 of Your Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Exploring the Enchanting Positano

The Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and sparkling waters, is a slice of paradise, and there’s no better place to start your journey than in Positano. This village, seemingly painted onto the cliffs with a palette of vibrant colors, offers a picturesque introduction to the laid-back, luxurious lifestyle of Italy’s famous coastline.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

As you arrive in Positano, the first thing you’ll notice is the cascade of multi-colored houses tumbling down to the sea. Start your day at the heart of the village—the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Its majolica-tiled dome gleams under the sun, serving as a landmark from both land and sea. Inside, the church is serene and cool, offering a moment of peace as well as a glimpse into the spiritual life of the locals.

After your visit, stroll down to Spiaggia Grande, the main beach of Positano. Even if the beach is bustling, the vibe is infectious, with laughter and Italian chatter filling the air. Rent a beach chair and umbrella, and give yourself some time to soak in the sun and dip into the clear, refreshing waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Midday: Culinary Delights

By lunchtime, you’ll be ready to sample some of the local cuisine. Head to a seaside café or trattoria, where you can enjoy dishes that are as fresh as the ocean breeze. A must-try is the ‘Spaghetti alle Vongole’—spaghetti with clams, tossed in a white wine sauce with garlic and parsley. Pair it with a glass of crisp, local white wine, and you’ll quickly understand why Italian coastal cuisine is celebrated.

Post-lunch, explore the boutiques and artisanal shops that line the narrow, winding streets. Positano is known for its fashion—particularly the linen dresses and handmade leather sandals. Treat yourself to a custom-fitted pair as a stylish and practical memento of your time here.

Afternoon: Adventures on the Water

In the afternoon, switch gears and see Positano from a different angle by renting a kayak or paddleboard. Paddling out into the calm sea provides not only a bit of tranquility away from the crowded streets but also offers stunning views of the coast. The sight of Positano from the water, with its grandeur and colorful architecture, is truly unforgettable.

For those seeking more thrilling adventures, consider joining a boat tour that takes you along the coast or to nearby hidden coves and grottos. These tours often include stops where you can swim in secluded spots that are otherwise inaccessible.

Evening: Sunset and Spirits

As evening approaches, there’s no better place to be than one of Positano’s rooftop bars. Here, you can sip a Prosecco or an Aperol Spritz as the sky turns a fiery orange, casting a warm glow over the town. The Chiesa Nuova area offers some great options with panoramic views that make for a perfect backdrop to your early evening aperitif.

For dinner, choose a restaurant that serves seafood caught daily by the local fishermen. The freshness of the ingredients, combined with the culinary expertise of Amalfi Coast chefs, creates flavors that dance on your palate. Try a seafood risotto or grilled swordfish, both staples that highlight the region’s fare.

After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach or back through the town’s charming streets. The nighttime brings a new perspective to Positano, with softly lit laneways and the gentle sound of waves providing a peaceful end to a fulfilling day.

Day 2 of Your Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Continuing on to Day 2 of your unforgettable Amalfi Coast itinerary, we journey to the very heart of this stunning region with stops in both Amalfi and the enchanting hilltop town of Ravello. Each offers unique perspectives and experiences that epitomize the cultural and scenic richness of the coast.

Morning in Amalfi

Take the morning to head to Amalfi, easily accessible by bus or ferry from Positano. This ancient maritime republic has a rich history and an even richer vibe. The centerpiece of Amalfi is its stunning cathedral, the Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea, which dominates the main square with its striking mix of architectural styles. Climb the steps to the cathedral to not only see the beautiful interior but also to enjoy the piazza view from above.

Strolling through Amalfi, you can’t help but be enchanted by the maze of narrow streets and alleys that offer surprises at every turn—from quaint shops selling handmade paper (a local specialty) to bustling little cafés. Stop by a pasticceria for a sweet treat—perhaps a traditional sfogliatella, filled with citrusy ricotta.

Lunch and Discoveries

For lunch, settle into one of Amalfi’s restaurants with terraces overlooking the small beach and the harbor. Seafood is, of course, the order of the day. Indulge in a plate of ‘scialatielli ai frutti di mare,’ a rich and hearty local pasta dish brimming with the sea’s bounty, perfectly paired with a glass of Falanghina.

Post-lunch, visit the Museo della Carta, a unique museum set in an old paper mill, to learn about the traditional art of paper making that Amalfi is famous for. If time allows, a quick visit to the ancient Arsenale, where powerful galleys were once built, offers a glimpse into Amalfi’s maritime might.

Afternoon in Ravello

By early afternoon, catch a bus winding up to Ravello, perched in the mountains above Amalfi. This town is less about the bustle and more about the serene views and artistic soul. Start at Villa Rufolo, a 13th-century villa with breathtaking gardens that inspired Richard Wagner’s staging of Parsifal. The views from the gardens stretch across the coastline, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Just a short walk from Villa Rufolo is Villa Cimbrone, famous for its Terrace of Infinity. The terrace is lined with marble busts that overlook the sea, and it feels like you’re literally on the edge of the world. Spend some time wandering the villa’s expansive gardens, filled with statues, fountains, and an abundance of floral displays.

Evening: Return to Amalfi

Return to Amalfi for dinner, perhaps choosing a restaurant along the waterfront to watch the lights of the town shimmer on the water. As you dine on local specialties, like ‘Risotto alla Pescatora’, reflect on the rich history and natural beauty you’ve explored today.

Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the marina, where the gentle sea breeze and the soft murmur of the waves create the perfect atmosphere to unwind and prepare for your next day’s adventure to the island of Capri.

Day 3 of Your Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Now, let’s move on to the final day of your Amalfi Coast itinerary, where the captivating island of Capri awaits. This legendary island is not just a highlight of the Amalfi Coast but a jewel of the Mediterranean.

A Day in Capri: Island Splendor

Catch an early ferry from Amalfi to Capri, a journey that introduces you to the island with spectacular sea views as you approach. The island of Capri has enchanted visitors from Roman emperors to famous writers with its breathtaking landscapes and sophisticated charm.

Morning: Capri Town and Gardens

Once you dock at Marina Grande, take the funicular up to Capri town. The funicular ride itself offers stunning panoramic views of the sapphire waters and the rugged coastline. Start your exploration in the bustling Piazzetta, often called the world’s smallest square, which is the vibrant heart of the island.

A short walk from the Piazzetta through narrow, designer boutique-lined streets leads you to the Gardens of Augustus. These beautifully manicured gardens offer not only a peaceful retreat with shaded paths and ornamental flora but also spectacular views of the Faraglioni rocks—three towering rock formations that rise majestically from the sea.

Midday: Via Krupp and Lunch

Descend to the sea via the Via Krupp, a historic switchback footpath carved into the rock offering incredible views of the Mediterranean. This path may occasionally be closed due to rock falls, but when open, it provides a breathtaking walk down to the water’s edge.

For lunch, choose a seaside restaurant in Marina Piccola, a charming area with a more relaxed vibe compared to Capri town. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes, perhaps a grilled octopus or a Caprese salad made with locally sourced tomatoes and mozzarella, as you sit back and watch the gentle waves.

Afternoon: Boat Tour and Blue Grotto

In the afternoon, embark on a boat tour around the island, which allows you to see Capri from a different perspective and visit the mesmerizing Blue Grotto. The Blue Grotto, or Grotta Azzurra, is famous for its electric blue water, a natural phenomenon caused by sunlight passing through an underwater cavity and shining through the seawater.

The boat tours also typically circle around the island, offering views of lesser-known yet equally stunning grottos and inlets. Take a moment to swim in the clear blue waters, a refreshing and invigorating experience that is a highlight for many.

Evening: Return to Amalfi and Sunset Dinner

Return to the mainland in the late afternoon, catching a ferry back to Amalfi. Your last evening on the Amalfi Coast deserves a special celebration. Choose a restaurant with a sunset view, perhaps high up in the hills of Ravello or along the coast in Positano, where you can dine alfresco. As you enjoy dishes like linguine alle vongole or a traditional Neapolitan pizza, watch the sky turn from blue to hues of orange, pink, and purple, casting a magical spell over the landscape.

Reflect on the past three days—the beauty seen, the flavors tasted, and the memories made. The Amalfi Coast is not just a place to visit, but an experience to be cherished, a reminder of the joys of exploring new horizons.

Day Trips from the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast serves as a perfect base to explore the fascinating regions nearby. Each of these recommended day trips will enrich your experience with historical insights, stunning natural beauty, and a taste of local life.

Pompeii and Herculaneum

A visit to the Amalfi Coast is incomplete without stepping back in time at the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Both cities were buried under volcanic ash and pumice in the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Today, they offer a haunting yet fascinating glimpse into daily life in Roman times. Pompeii is larger and more famous, but Herculaneum offers better-preserved ruins and fewer crowds, making both worth a visit.

• Getting There: Both sites can be reached within about an hour’s drive from the Amalfi Coast. Trains are also available from Sorrento to Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Capri

While already included in our three-day itinerary, Capri deserves a separate mention for those who might want to explore it more thoroughly. This luxurious island is known for its dramatic cliffs, the mysterious Blue Grotto, and its glamorous visitor list. Spend a day roaming the upscale boutiques, enjoying a long lunch by the sea, or hiking the less-traveled paths that offer breathtaking views over the Bay of Naples.

• Getting There: Ferries run frequently from Positano and Amalfi, and the journey takes about 40 minutes.

Naples

Venture into Naples for a day of cultural immersion. Explore the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visit the renowned National Archaeological Museum, or indulge in the city’s claim to fame—authentic Neapolitan pizza. Naples vibrates with an energy unlike any other Italian city, and its rich mix of history, art, and street life is enthralling.

• Getting There: Naples is accessible by train from Sorrento, which is a short bus ride from Amalfi or Positano.

Paestum

For those interested in ancient history, a trip to Paestum is highly recommended. This lesser-known archaeological site features three of the most well-preserved Greek temples in the world, dating back to as early as 600 BC. The museum on site also displays fascinating artifacts, including the famous Tomb of the Diver.

• Getting There: Paestum can be reached in about 1.5 hours by car from the Amalfi Coast.

These day trips offer a wonderful addition to your Amalfi Coast itinerary, allowing you to explore beyond the immediate coastline and delve deeper into the rich tapestry of southern Italy.

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