The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most picturesque regions. Idyllic towns and villages hug the cliffs, with crystal clear blue waters and intimate beaches dotted along the 30-mile coastline. A-list celebrities love to holiday here as you’ll find some of the best hotels and restaurants in the world. The city of Naples is a gateway to the Amalfi Coast and is the perfect destination to start this 5 day adventure. You’ll find that Naples has plenty of culture and beauty to offer itself.
For this trip, you will fly in and out of Naples and travel to and from the Amalfi Coast by car. You can catch a ferry from Naples to Sorrento and then onwards to the Amalfi Coast however, it is just as quick to drive. Plus, driving also gives you the added benefit of enjoying the winding scenic roads of the Amalfi Coast as you travel from town to town.
Day 1: Naples
Naples is the third largest city in Italy and is one of the country’s major ports. It’s a bustling city bursting with history and culture, without the mass tourism of Rome or Venice. The still-active volcano, Mount Vesuvius is just 6 miles away, with the Archaeological site of Pompeii, which was destroyed by Vesuvius, just 16 miles away.
What to do and see in Naples?
Naples is famous for its many historic sites around the city. Head to Piazza del Plebiscito where you can visit the Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale). As impressive as this huge palace is from the outside, the inside is simply stunning and gives you a real taste of Naples’s history and culture. While you’re at the Piazza del Plebiscito, you can also visit the majestic San Francesco di Paola Basilica, one of Naples’ largest churches.
Naples also has seven castles and two of the best ones to visit are located right on the waterfront. Castel Nuovo and Castle Ovo are just a twenty-minute walk along the coast from one another. Plus you’ll get fantastic views out over the bay as well as seeing the Fountain of the Giant, a 17th-century monumental fountain in between.
The Galleria Umberto I shopping gallery is also a must-see for its impressive glass and steel dome roof. The gallery has shops, cafés, and restaurants and is a great place to grab a drink or bite to eat.
Where to eat in Naples?
When in Naples you have to try a traditional Neapolitan pizza. Sorbillo is one of the most popular pizzerias in the city and if you’re willing to wait (sometimes up to an hour and a half) then you will be rewarded with amazing pizza. Alternatively, Ristorante Acquolina offers beautiful views out over the Bay of Naples. Or, Taverna dell’ Arte is a cute and cosy restaurant with delicious Italian food. It feels as authentically Italian as you’ll get.
Where to stay in Naples?
- $$$ – The Britannique Naples, Curio Collection by Hilton
- $$ – Hotel Matilde
- $ – Tric Trac Hostel
Day 2: Ravello (Via Pompeii)
Travel time: Naples to Pompeii: 30 minutes. Pompeii to Ravello: 50 minutes.
It’s time to head to the Amalfi Coast but first, we’ll be stopping at the ancient city of Pompeii. Pompeii was destroyed in 79 CE when Mount Vesuvius erupted but the ruins of the city make for a fascinating piece of history. Wander around and you’ll see the remains of lavish buildings and the stunning architecture of this once-wealthy city.
From here we will continue travelling to reach our first Amalfi Coast destination of Ravello. This beautiful, scenic town that sits at 365 meters above sea level offers up some of the best coastal views of the entire trip. Ravello is also well known for its stunning garden villas and delightful churches.
What to do and see in Ravello?
Firstly, head to Ravello Old Town. The old town has pretty cobbled streets and traditional cafés. It’s the perfect place to get something to eat on Piazza Vescovado and browse the boutique shops. Then, pay a visit to Ravello Cathedral (Duomo di Ravello), which dates back to 1086. From here it’s just a short walk to Villa Rufolo, a stunning garden villa that overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea with views stretching as far as the Gulf of Salerno. Villa Cimbrone Gardens is equally picturesque and offers breathtaking views over the town.
One of the most impressive sights in Ravello is the Auditorium Oscar Niemeyer. Sitting on the cliffside at Via della Repubblica, this concert hall has an imposing, contemporary design that is well worth seeing up close. You’ll also be able to get a great photo from the concert hall’s plaza, looking down the cliffside to the Tyrrhenian Sea. Finally, the Church of the Annunciation (Chiesa Dell’Annunziata) is known for its twin domed towers and impressive interiors. It’s also another great spot for beautiful views.
Where to eat in Ravello?
Babel Wine Bar Deli & Art are as passionate about art as they are about their food. This cosy restaurant serves delightful dishes that you can pair with a great selection of wines. On the other hand, Vittoria has something for everyone from pizza, pasta, seafood and meat dishes. But, you can’t beat L’Antica Cartiera for its location right on the coast with amazing sea views. The stunning seafood restaurant located inside the Hotel Marmorata is well worth booking in advance.
Where to stay in Ravello?
- $$$ – Casa dolce casa
- $$ – Blu Ravello
- $ – Palazzo Della Marra
Day 3: Amalfi (via Atrani)
Travel time: 20 minutes.
We’re starting day 3 by visiting the coastal fishing village of Atrani. Atrani is one of the best-preserved medieval villages on the Amalfi Coast. After a visit here we will head less than a mile down the coast to Amalfi.
What to do and see in Atrani & Amalfi?
Atrani is a beautiful little village. Wander around the tiny, steep streets and visit the Church of San Salvatore de Birecto and admire the medieval architecture that remains. From here, visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Maddalena which offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Salerno. You should also visit Atrani’s small but beautiful sandy beach. You can swim and sunbathe here with sunbeds and umbrellas available.
Onto Amalfi and the first stop should be the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi). Centrally located in the heart of the town. Then, we highly recommend hiking the amazing Valle delle Ferriere. This nature reserve is one of the most beautiful places to go hiking on the Amalfi Coast. The dense forests, lemon groves and waterfalls make the Valle delle Ferriere feel like a real-life fairytale. The hiking route is approximately 3.7 miles and entry costs €5, which you’ll need to book in advance.
Where to eat in Atrani & Amalfi?
If you’re looking for somewhere unforgettable to eat, A’Paranza in Atrani is a Michelin restaurant and their signature risotto con crema di scampi (risotto with langoustine) is well known across Italy. In Amalfi Terrazza 17, located in the Hotel Marina Riviera is set on a terrace overlooking the bay of Amalfi, serving stunning local dishes in an idyllic location. Or, there’s Fior di pizza, for incredible pizza.
Where to stay in Amalfi?
- $$$ – NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi
- $$ – Donna Giulia
- $ – Hotel Amalfi
Day 4: Positano
Travel time: 50 minutes.
Today we’re heading further down the Amalfi Coast to the beautiful town of Positano. Positano is probably one of the most well-known regions on the Amalfi Coast, with its pebbled beach looking up at the multi-coloured villas stacked on top of each other on the cliffside. The charming narrow streets lead up to traditional bars, restaurants and boutique shops, with something new at every twist and turn.
What to do and see in Positano?
When you think of Positano, the famous Spiaggia Grande beach probably comes to mind. The 300-metre stretch of pebbled beach is a great place to relax and sunbathe or explore on the water. You can hire a parasol and sunbed and soak up the sun or why not hire a kayak or take a boat trip? The beachfront is lined with amazing seafood restaurants where you can eat lunch or head back here in the evening for the ultimate dining experience.
To end the night in style visit Music On The Rocks, at Spiaggia Grande. This nightclub is carved out of the rocks and you’ll find a trendy crowd with top DJs and great cocktails.
Where to eat in Positano?
Da Vincenzo is a cosy upscale restaurant with a unique carved-stone interior. But it’s not all for show. The food is delicious and there’s a great choice of wines. Another great option is La Guarracino who serve regional pasta dishes and seafood, with the perfect waterfront setting on a wooden deck with the Tyrrhenian Sea a stone’s throw away. Or there’s the fantastic Saraceno d’Oro who offer wood-fired pizzas, pasta dishes and seafood in a relaxed and friendly setting.
Where to stay in Positano?
- $$$ – Hotel Covo dei Saraceni
- $$ – Hotel Dimora Fornillo
- $ – Villa Bellavista Hotel
Day 5: Back to Naples (via Sorrento)
Travel time: Positano to Sorrento: 45 minutes. Sorrento to Naples: 1 hour.
It’s time to go back to Naples to head home but there’s time to visit one more destination that although it isn’t classed as part of the Amalfi Coast it’s too beautiful not to visit; Sorrento.
What to do and see in Sorrento?
One of the best ways to experience Sorrento is to visit the city’s main square, Piazza Tasso. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and boutique shops to explore, centered around this area. Wander down the small, winding streets and pick up some limoncello to take home wth you. From Sorrento, you can even catch a ferry over to the island of Capri to see this beautiful island for a few hours.
Where to eat in Sorrento?
Azz! is a no-nonsense Italian restaurant serving lovely pasta dishes, pizza and delicious desserts. Alternatively, O’Parrucchiano La Favorita is located in a beautiful setting with garden seating and classic dishes. Another fantastic dining setting can be found at Bagni Delfino, located down at the fisherman’s village Marina Grande. This family-run restaurant has amazing seafood, pasta and pizza in an unbeatable waterfront setting.
Useful tips for traveling in Naples & Amalfi Coast:
The best time to visit Naples & Amalfi Coast:
The best time to visit Naples and the Amalfi Coast would be either May or September. During these months you can still expect good weather between 20°C – 25°C and there will be far less tourists.
What is the currency of Naples & Amalfi Coast?
Italy uses the Euro as its currency.
Can you drink tap water in Naples & Amalfi Coast?
The tap water is fine to drink in both Naples and on the Amalfi Coast.
The language of Naples & Amalfi Coast:
Italian is spoken in Naples and the Amalfi Coast. Some useful phrases include:
- Hello / Goodbye – Ciao!
- Yes – Si
- No – No
- Please – Per favore
- Thank you – Grazie
- You’re welcome – Prego
- Cheers! – Salute!
- Excuse me (for attention) – Scusi
Is Naples & Amalfi Coast safe?
Naples is a busy city so you should be vigilant for pickpockets and bag snatchers targeting tourists. But, in general, it’s not a dangerous city for tourists to visit. The Amalfi Coast does not have much petty crime and is considered a very safe place to travel around.
Final thoughts:
The Amalfi Coast is definitely a bucket list destination for its beauty, luxury, and impeccable food. Make sure to use this itinerary to plan ahead and enjoy the most fantastic sights there are to see in the region.
Be sure to check out our Ultimate 2-Week Italy Itinerary: Exploring The Entire Country for a comprehensive itinerary of Italy.
And if you’re looking to broaden your horizon beyond Italy then why not check out some of our other itineraries below?
