Ah, the Amalfi Coast, a destination filled to the brim with beauty, history, and adventure.
If you’re planning a trip here, seven days is an ideal amount of time to see all the highlights of this stunning stretch of coastline. So, we’ve put together this in-depth 7-day Amalfi Coast itinerary to help you have the best coastal vacation yet. But, if you have a shorter or longer stay in mind, this itinerary is adaptable for any length of trip.
In this article, we’ll cover some of the most beautiful Amalfi Coast towns and what to see and do in each. We’ll also share essential information on how to get around, along with some restaurant and gelato stop suggestions.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the Amalfi Coast is waiting. So pack your bags and get ready to be enchanted by one of the most beautiful destinations in southern Italy.
Choose Your Base Town
The first thing you need to decide on for your vacation is where to stay on the Amalfi Coast. The entire Amalfi Coast is only about 31 miles long, so all of the towns are close enough to get to in an hour or so. Two of the most popular choices are Positano and Amalfi town.
Positano is great if you’re seeking luxury and a romantic getaway, while Amalfi town is an ideal base as it sits almost in the middle of the Amalfi Coast. You can also opt to stay in smaller villages like Minori or Ravello. The smaller villages are usually cheaper and less crowded, but not as well connected to public transport.
Note: In this article, we’ll focus on distances from Positano and Amalfi. Many of the most picturesque villages are near Amalfi town, like Minori, Maiori, Scala, and Atrani, so the distances will only be slightly more or less depending on where you’re staying.
Getting Around the Amalfi Coast
Getting around the Amalfi Coast can be tricky, especially if you’re not a local. The roads are narrow, following along cliff edges, and are full of turns. So you might be a bit nervous trying to navigate these roads with a rental car. Many hotels also won’t have parking for your vehicle.
An easier option is to take a private taxi or the public SITA bus. The major routes are Sorrento – Positano – Amalfi and from Amalfi to Salerno. You’ll have to purchase bus tickets at a newsstand or tobacco shop. Keep in mind that the bus is not ideal during peak season, as you’ll often only have enough space to stand.
You can also take the ferry, which offers a more scenic way to get around. Ferries usually only operate during the warmer months, so be sure to check the schedules online while planning how to get around.
For longer distances, a tour is an excellent option. These cover transport and usually include local snacks and drinks, as well as some background information that will enhance your trip and appreciation for the Amalfi Coast.
LISTEN: To our podcast on Exploring the Amalfi Coast by road and by sea.
Top Sights for Your Amalfi Coast Trip Itinerary
Here are some of the top attractions you won’t want to leave off of your perfect Amalfi Coast itinerary.
Towns of the Amalfi Coast
Positano and Amalfi are the names on everyone’s lips but there are eleven other towns along the Amalfi Coast, each with their own charm and personality. Ravello, pictured above, is a popular favorite thanks to its magnificent villas that enjoy sweeping views along the coastline. Maiori is the only town that enjoys a sandy beach and for a true local feel, head to the very south of the coast to Salerno.
Grotta dello Smeraldo
Located in Conca dei Marini, just outside of Amalfi town, this enchanting sea cave is a must-see attraction on the Amalfi Coast. The naturally formed Emerald Grotto gradually filled with water over time, so you’ll get to admire the grotto’s stalactites and stalagmites from a boat.
Fiordo di Furore
Another attraction just a few miles from Amalfi town, Fiordo di Furore, is one of the most scenic beaches on the Amalfi Coast. The somewhat hidden attraction is nestled between some rugged cliffs near the town of Furore.
When you’re not basking in the sun or taking a plunge, wander around the charming little fishing village or explore the trails leading from the beach. Be sure to bring your camera!
Path of the Gods Hike
One of the best ways to soak up the views and weather of the stunning Amalfi Coast is by hiking the Path of the Gods. This roughly 5-mile hike weaves past hillside villages, historic ruins, and interesting caves while providing breathtaking views of the coast.
Valle Delle Ferriere e dei Mulini
This stunning attraction in Scala offers a cool and tranquil escape from the summer heat. With an abundance of waterfalls and streams flowing through lush vegetation, the Ferriere Valley is the ideal place for hiking or simply basking in nature. You’ll come across old ironworks as well as paper mills. The area with mills is known as Valle dei Mulini.
Regina Giovanna Baths
The Baths of Queen Giovanna may not be on the Amalfi Coast, but its ideal location in Sorrento, near Positano, makes it a must-visit site. This hidden cove offers crystal-clear azure waters surrounded by dramatic rock formations adorned with greenery. Nearby, you’ll also find an ancient Roman villa worth admiring.
Days 1–2: Explore Positano or Amalfi Town
Your first two days on the Amalfi Coast will depend on which town you choose as your base. Positano and Amalfi town are less than an hour’s drive away from each other, so it’ll be easy to visit either town from your base. Spend your first day getting to know the town you’re staying in or nearest, then venture to the other town on your second day.
Positano
With its pastel buildings adorning the hills and pebble beaches offering stunning views of the Amalfi Coast, it’s no wonder Positano is such a popular destination.
Morning and Afternoon
Start your day in Positano with a coffee and breathtaking views of the town from Posides Cafe. After that, stop by the stunning church of Santa Maria Assunta to admire its Majolica-tiled dome and beautiful interiors.
By late morning you can look forward to cooling off at beaches like Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo Beach. On Spiaggia Grande, you’ll find a free section of the beach, as well as a private beach club, where you’ll pay about €30 per person entering.
Fornillo beach is a less crowded option. A short cliffside path leads to Fornillo from Marina Grande. The 15-minute walk will be well worth it, as you’ll reach a beautiful stretch of coastline with access to amenities like restaurants and bathrooms. You’ll also have to pay about €20 to enter the beach club here.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, rent a kayak and glide along the azure waters while admiring the town from a different vantage point.
Be sure to take some time to wander through the narrow streets and visit the quaint shops for souvenirs like limoncello, clothing, and ceramics.
Lunch and Gelato Suggestions
Here are some lunch and gelato stop options to fit in between your daytime activities:
- Casa e Bottega – This beautiful spot provides light and refreshing breakfast and lunch options. The restaurant also sells beautiful glassware, ceramics, and fabrics if you’re looking for souvenirs.
- Ristorante Max Positano – This elegant and art-filled restaurant serves excellent pasta and seafood dishes. They also host cooking classes if you’d like to learn a thing or two about preparing authentic Italian cuisine.
- The Brasserie – Situated near Marina Grande, The Brasserie is great as both a lunch and gelato stop. Pop by for a pizza or to try their gelato options — prepared with fresh, seasonal fruits.
Evening
End your first day on the Amalfi Coast with a dinner or boat cruise at sunset.
This charming town has some great rooftop bars and excellent restaurants serving seafood dishes. Book a table at Luna restaurant for drinks and tapas in an elegant setting. Enjoy coastal and mountainside views as the sun sets below the horizon.
Alternatively, hop on a sunset cruise and bask in the late afternoon glow while sipping on some prosecco and admiring the Amalfi Coast at night.
Amalfi Town
The town of Amalfi is an equally spectacular place, with vibrant houses nestled among the greenery of the hills facing the ocean. This town also has quite a history to it, which is why the Amalfi Coast is named after it. In the 9th century, this coastal town was the seat of a powerful maritime republic that rivaled cities like Venice, Pisa, and Genoa.
By the 13th century, Amalfi became one of the first European places to produce paper, thanks to its convenient location near the fresh water source running through Valle dei Mulini.
Morning and Afternoon
Kick things off with a pastry and caffè at Pasticceria Pansa before taking a short walk to the 10th-century Duomo di Sant’Andrea, with its intricate Moorish facade and opulent interiors. Be sure to visit the Arabic-style Chiostro del Paradiso that forms part of this church. The architecture is complemented by original frescoes and a picture-perfect garden.
After visiting one of Amalfi town’s most iconic landmarks, delve further into this town’s history with a visit to the Museo Della Carta. This paper museum is about a 15-minute walk from the town center and is housed in a 13th-century paper mill.
For about €5, you’ll get an informative tour of the mill as well as an interactive demonstration of how paper was made during the Medieval period.
After a bit of history, make your way to the Valle dei Mulini and Valle delle Ferriere to see old paper mills and enjoy the lush green surroundings. You’ll come across a few waterfalls and plunge pools that are delightful on a hot day.
Alternatively, spend some time at the many beaches. The main beach is Spiaggia Grande. But there are a few less-crowded beaches a short walk away, like Lido delle Sirene and La Marinella beach.
By late afternoon, wander around the town’s winding paths and explore the many souvenir stores. Stop by Tabula for handmade paper, or head to the family-run Antichi Sapori d’Amalfi for limoncello treats. There are also some great boutique clothing stores and leather shops selling high-quality leather bags, shoes, and purses.
Lunch and Gelato Suggestions
Here are some great spots to stop for lunch or a refreshing scoop of gelato.
- Taverna degli Apostoli – Situated right next to the Duomo di Sant’Andrea, this family-run spot offers traditional, home-style pasta and seafood dishes.
- Ristorante L’Abside – This lively trattoria has a seafood-forward menu and is a short walk from the Duomo. Order a seafood platter to share or try their lemon risotto.
- Gelateria Artigianale – You’ll find this quaint, no-frills gelateria near Spiaggia Grande. Sample flavors like dark chocolate and coffee, as well as classics like lemon sorbet.
Evening
Enjoy some fine dining and coastal views at the elegant Dei Cappuccini. Or, if you’re looking for something more laidback, pop by Da Maria for traditional pizza and seafood dishes in a rustic setting.
If you’re the adventurous type, you can take a late evening hike to Torre dello Ziro. This historic watchtower offers some of the best views of the Amalfi Coast and can be reached on a moderate hike that should take about two hours.
Day 3: Spend a Day at the Beach or Exploring the Coast
After getting to know two of the top Amalfi Coast towns, give your feet some rest with a relaxing beach day or coastal excursion to appreciate the crystal-clear waters.
The Amalfi Coast has some of the most scenic beaches, some of which are hidden among steep cliffs, while others can only be reached by boat. Many of these beaches have private beach clubs where you can expect to pay between €10 to €30 per person entering.
Private beach clubs offer lounge chairs, which are a bit more comfortable than laying on a towel on top of pebbles. But almost every beach will have a free section where you can plop your towel down if you don’t mind the bumpy surface. Some beaches get the best sun in the morning, so try to get there early.
Some of the top beaches include:
- Marina Grande in Positano: Popular beach with restaurants and live music.
- Arienzo Beach in Positano: Accessed by descending about 300 steps. One of the few beaches that get afternoon sun.
- Maiori Beach in Maiori: One of the largest beaches and of the few sandy beaches that also gets sun in the afternoon.
- Duoglio Beach near Amalfi: This somewhat secret beach about a kilometer from Amalfi can be accessed by boat. It’s a great spot for snorkeling and kayaking.
- Fiordo di Furore in Furore: One of the most picturesque beaches, best accessed by boat or from the stone steps leading down from Amalfi Drive.
A great way to see many of the Amalfi Coast’s top beaches is by taking a full-day shore excursion. You can opt for a boat tour from Amalfi to explore all the interesting grottos along the coast, including the Grotta dello Smeraldo. Or, take a coastal day trip from Positano that stops at some of the best beaches and coves for you to swim in and admire.
Day 4: Explore Ravello
Ravello is about a 15-minute drive from Amalfi town or roughly an hour’s drive from Positano. This clifftop village provides dreamy views of the coast and has some stunning villas.
Morning and Afternoon
Once in Ravello, stop by Sisina’s Snack Bar for a coffee and pastry. Bask in the sunshine and enjoy the village views before you start exploring.
One of the main attractions in Ravello is the 13th-century Villa Rufolo, a grand villa with large terraces and picture-perfect gardens.
This villa is so stunning it was used to host banquets for nobility and kings. It was even featured in Boccaccio’s Decameron, published in 1353. Today, this villa hosts the yearly Ravello Festival, a summer festival focused on music and art.
The entrance to Villa Rufolo is on Piazza Centrale, Ravello’s main square. This square is home to the Ravello Duomo, a few restaurants, shops, and an art gallery, making it a great spot for lunch and souvenir shopping.
Another beautiful villa you won’t want to miss in Ravello is Villa Cimbrone. Dating back to the 11th century, this property has equally stunning gardens and the Infinity Terrace, which provides unmatched views of the coast. The terrace is further beautified by marble busts lining its wall.
TIP: Opt for a guided tour of Ravello if you’d like to learn more about this town’s history from a local.
Lunch and Gelato Suggestions
Consider these spots for some classic Italian cuisine and gelato:
- Osteria Ravello – This osteria has a terrace facing Scala and offers an excellent burrata starter and equally mouthwatering mains like potato ravioli and seafood pasta.
- Nino’s Pizza – For a quick but mouthwatering lunchtime bite, stop by Nino’s Pizza. Sample dishes like fried calzone, pizza, or roast chicken and vegetables while overlooking Ravello.
- Baffone Gelateria Artigianale – Stop by this little gelateria for delectable flavors like pistachio and lemon while exploring the village.
Evening
Before heading back to your home base, enjoy a dinner at Babel Wine Bar and Bistro. This artsy restaurant near Villa Rufolo makes excellent pasta and seafood dishes. Try their ravioli or pasta al limone. You can also purchase ceramics created by local artists as a memento.
Day 5 – Hike the Path of the Gods
A great way to appreciate the Amalfi Coast’s mountainous landscape and coastal vistas is by hiking the Path of the Gods.
This roughly five-mile path follows old mule routes and overlooks the Amalfi Coast and a few islands and villages. You’ll pass by centuries-old ruins, interesting caves, towering rock walls, and some farmlands.
The moderate hike can take anything between two to five hours. So wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. You can also order something to eat at one of the restaurants in your base town to enjoy a picnic on the mountain.
The hiking trail starts near Bomerano and ends in the village of Nocelle near Positano. The best way to get to Bomerano is by hiring a driver or taking the local bus. Bomerano sits almost halfway between Amalfi and Positano. Making it easy to reach in about half an hour.
On your way to your starting point in Bomerano, especially if you’re coming from Amalfi town, you can visit the stunning Grotta dello Smeraldo. The sun causes the crystal-clear water to project emerald and aquamarine hues onto the cave walls, making it a breathtaking sight you’ll want to bring your camera for.
A boat tour of the cave will cost about €8 and lasts roughly 20 minutes. The cave’s entrance is conveniently located along Amalfi Drive, so it should be easy to access with a taxi or bus.
Lunch or Dinner Suggestions
The hiking trail ends in Nocelle, a quiet village high up on the mountain. From there, you can walk down to Positano or order a private driver to fetch you. But, Nocelle is far too beautiful to simply pass through. Depending on what time your hike ends, consider one of these excellent restaurants in the village for lunch or dinner.
- Il Chiosco del sentiero degli dei – This tiny spot overlooks the Amalfi Coast and offers the perfect post-hike refreshments. Order a filling panini and some granita, sit back, and enjoy the views.
- Santa Croce – Refuel with Italian classics like ravioli, gnocchi, and fried zucchini flowers at this minimalist restaurant overlooking the ocean.
- Lemon Point – After your long journey, you’ll absolutely love the orange juice and lemon granita on offer at this little stand.
LISTEN: To our podcast on The Path of the Gods and alternative hikes.
Day 6 – Day Trip to Capri
No Amalfi Coast travel itinerary would be complete without a visit to the picturesque island of Capri. This island may be small, but it has plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy for a day.
Morning – Getting to Capri
After a morning caffè, make your way to Positano or Amalfi town port to hop on a boat to Capri. If you’re taking a ferry, the boat ride from Amalfi to Capri island lasts just under an hour, while the trip from Positano lasts about half an hour. Ferries usually run between April and October, and tickets start at around €25 one way.
TIP: Use Ferryhopper to view departure times and book your ferry trip to Capri ahead of time.
You can also get there by taking a full-day boat tour from Positano or Amalfi. Boat tours will usually go from the Amalfi or Positano to the port of Sorrento, so you’ll pass Punta Campanella, the point of the Sorrentine Peninsula.
From Sorrento, it’s a short ride to Capri. During the journey, you’ll pass by sights like the Blue Grotto (or Grotto of Tiberius) and enjoy activities like snorkeling before stopping at the port.
On Capri, you’ll find grandiose villas with manicured gardens, scenic beaches, luxury shops, and incredible restaurants.
DISCOVER: More about Capri Boat Tours.
Afternoon – Explore Capri
If you’re visiting Capri without a tour, you can make your way to Blue Grotto with a boat from Marina Grande, the port where your ferry will stop. The boat will take you to the scenic grotto, where you’ll have to transfer to a rowboat to enter through the small cave entrance.
From Blue Grotto, you can take a private taxi or bus to Piazza Vittoria in Anacapri, which will take about 20 minutes.
Around the corner from Piazza Vittoria, you’ll find the Monte Solaro Chair Lift. This chairlift provides a scenic trip up to Monte Solaro, the highest and most panoramic point on the island. A roundtrip ticket costs €14, while a one-way ticket costs €11.
After your scenic trip, wander through the streets of Anacapri, admiring the luxury shops and perhaps sampling some gelato before making your way back to Capri.
In Capri, make your way to the Gardens of Augustus for even more stunning vistas of the coast and Marina Piccola Cove.
From there, you’ll also see the Faraglioni sea stacks. These three towering rock formations, called Stella, Mezzo, and Scopolo, jut out from the glittering waters and are stunning to photograph. If you take a boat tour from Amalfi town or Positano, you’ll likely stop here on your way to the island.
Be sure to make a stop at Villa Jovis if you’re interested in history. This villa used to be the grand home of Emperor Tiberius, who was said to be such a fan of the island that he spent much of his life here. Today, you’ll mostly find ruins, but the property is still beautiful to explore.
Lunch and Gelato Suggestions
Here are a few lunch and gelato stop suggestions to consider while exploring Capri.
- Al Grottino – This cute and homely restaurant offers excellent seafood and Mediterranean dishes. Be sure to try their torta caprese or frutti di mare.
- Ristorante Il Geranio Capri – Offering views of the Faraglioni rocks, this restaurant near the Gardens of Augustus has great seafood pasta options and a lovely wine selection.
- Buonocore Gelateria – This spot in the heart of Capri prepares waffle cones to order. So you can enjoy the crispest and most fresh cone along with crowd favorites like lemon or pistachio gelato.
Evening
By late afternoon, you’ll make your way back to your base town. If you arrive on a ferry, be sure to check when the last ferry leaves for Positano or Amalfi.
LISTEN: To our podcast on Delicious dishes from Capri.
Day 7 – Go Off the Beaten Path
On the last day of your 7-day Amalfi Coast itinerary, go beyond the larger tourist attractions, visiting beautiful towns like Minori and Vietri sul Mare.
Minori
Situated a short drive from Amalfi, Minori is a picturesque little fishing village that’s perfect for escaping tourist crowds. While it’s not as well-known as Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, this town has plenty to offer.
Minori was once a popular holiday destination among Roman aristocrats. During the Bourbon era, this village was one of the main producers of pasta and pastry for the Kingdom of Naples.
Today, you’ll find a lively culinary scene where citrus dominates the tasty pastries and drinks offered, and the yearly GustaMinori food festival takes place.
Highlights of Minori include the 13th-century Basilica of Santa Trofimena in the heart of the town and the remains of an ancient Roman villa. The villa is said to date back to the first century AD and had fountains, a pool, gardens, and large banquet rooms.
You can visit this villa for free. On the upper floor, you’ll find an Antiquarium filled with intriguing remains of old Roman villas along the coast.
For a relaxing stroll, follow the Sentiero dei Limoni and enjoy the citrus scent as you pass by groves of lemon trees. The path connects Minori with Maiori and was used for transporting fruits for trade by the lemon growers.
Lunch and Gelato Suggestions
Make your way to Giardiniello restaurant, a short walk from the beach, to sample the regional ‘ndunderi or scialatielli pasta Minori is known for.
For a treat, stop by Pasticceria Sal De Riso near Minori beach. Globally acclaimed pastry chef, Salvatore de Riso, opened his first pastry shop in Minori in 1989 at the age of 22. This spot offers everything from pastries to gelato and liqueurs.
Vietri sul Mare
This village is another hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast. Vietri sul Mare is the first town on the Amalfi Coast and is about a 10-minute drive from Salerno. This town is especially known for its ceramics, which can be found on vibrant storefronts and even on pathways, making it a treat for the eyes.
When you’re not wandering through the streets, snapping photos, and exploring the ceramic stores, make your way to Spiaggia della Crestarella for a serene moment at the beach. Or, head to the Duomo di San Giovanni Battista, a 10th-century stand-out church decorated with marble and ceramic pieces.
Another great spot for photos here is Villa Communale, where you’ll find a winding road decorated with colorful tiles.
Lunch and Gelato Suggestions
If you find yourself hungry in Vietri sul Mare, make your way to Divina Vietri Pizzeria Marinara for some excellent pizza.
Salerno
If you’re looking to squeeze in some shopping at the end of your Amalfi Coast itinerary, Salerno is an excellent option. Here, you’ll find everything from shops selling craft items to high-end branded stores, so you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
Look out for handmade sandals, ceramics, limoncello, and more in popular locations like Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Piazza Flavio Gioia, and Via dei Mercanti. Via Duomo is a great option if you’re specifically looking for souvenirs.
Evening
Make your way back to your base town with a private taxi to relax after a day of exploring off the beaten path.
Extending Your Amalfi Coast Vacation Itinerary
If you simply can’t get enough of the coastal life and have some room to extend the fun, you can transfer to Sorrento by private taxi or ferry. Depending on which town you’re coming from and your chosen mode of transport, the journey will take between 20 to 60 minutes.
Close, but technically not on the Amalfi Coast, this town is the perfect base for day trips to destinations like Pompeii and Naples — another foodie paradise. There are also plenty of things to do in Sorrento, including shopping, soaking up the sun at the beach, and visiting historic churches and museums.
READ: Our guide on Where to stay in Sorrento.
Arriving on the Amalfi Coast
The closest airport to the Amalfi Coast is Naples International Airport, but you can also fly into Rome, to which flights are usually a bit cheaper. However, Naples is the most convenient, as you can get to your destination on the Amalfi Coast via airport shuttle or private transfer in about an hour and a half.
READ: Our guides to get From Rome to Amalfi Coast and from Naples to the Amalfi Coast.
Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast
There are plenty of excellent accommodations on the Amalfi Coast, from grand villas to minimalist boutique hotels. Have a look at our guide to the best hotels on the Amalfi Coast to find something for every budget. If your heart is set on a stay in Positano – check out this guide to Positano’s best hotels. You may also find this in-depth guide on the best Amalfi Coast towns to stay in helpful.
Ready for Your Trip to the Amalfi Coast, Italy?
A seven-day trip is the perfect amount of time to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the Amalfi Coast region. From exploring the historic centers of Amalfi and Positano to kayaking in hidden coves and hiking along the dramatic cliffs, there is no shortage of adventure and excitement.
Hopefully, this guide has given you enough inspiration and knowledge to plan the perfect trip to the Amalfi Coast. So with your Amalfi Coast itinerary sorted, all you have to do is to pack for your Italian getaway and make your way there.
Our team of writers and creatives at Untold Italy are experts in keeping you informed and inspired about travel in Italy. Our team collaboration involves writers, photographers and editorial staff dedicated to sharing accurate Italy travel information.
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