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 “Exploring the Amalfi Coast – by road and by sea” on Spreaker.
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 sel