Dreamiest Amalfi Coast Itinerary (For 3 to 7 Days!)

If you’re reading this Amalfi Coast itinerary, chances are you’re planning to explore one of Italy’s most gorgeous coastlines.

Magnifico! Whether it’s your first or fifth visit, an Amalfi Coast trip is cause for celebration.

Your dreams of swimming in the azure Tyrrhenian Sea, hiking along ancient coastal trails, sipping on Aperol spritzes at sunset, fine-dining on fresh seafood, and savoring lemon-infused everything (hello, limoncello!) are about to come true.

With this Amalfi Coast itinerary, you’ll drool over the impossibly romantic views of Positano. Boat to the rocky island of Capri. Stroll the luxurious, historic villas of Ravello. Learn to cook Italian classics in Amalfi. And shop for handmade ceramics in Vietri sul Mare. 

After exploring this incredible coastline in depth over multiple trips, I’ve curated the best Amalfi Coast itinerary I could dream of. Just for you!

This useful, customizable Amalfi Coast vacation itinerary includes it all: where to stay, how to get around, what to see, the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast, can’t-miss restaurants, and more!

Whether you have 3 days, 5 days, or 7 days, this is the Amalfi Coast guide for you!

The Perfect Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Overview

With this Amalfi Coast itinerary, you’ll experience all of the Amalfi Coast’s highlights. (Just be ready to go, go, go.) Or, take it slower; choose your favorite activities, cut out the rest, and laze at the beach instead! 

Here’s a quick overview of the dreamiest Amalfi Coast itinerary on the internet:

• Day 1: Discover the romantic charm of Positano
• Day 2: Hike the Path of the Gods, explore Praiano, beach time
• Day 3: Take a day trip to the beautiful island of Capri 
• Day 4: Embark on this boat and snorkeling tour, enjoy an unforgettable farm-to-table lunch, explore Amalfi town, dine in whimsical Atrani
• Day 5: Stroll the luxurious villas of Ravello and take this fun cooking class 
• Day 6: Visit off-the-beaten-path Vietri sul Mare
• Day 7: Hit the beach, visit Fiordo di Furore and Grotta dello Smeraldo
• Bonus day: Get to know Sorrento or visit Pompeii

Below, you’ll find the must-read details of what to see, do, and eat in each place! Plus, expert tips and must-know info.

About the Amalfi Coast Region

The Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana) is a 50-kilometer (31-mile) stretch of luscious coastline located in the province of Salerno, within the larger region of Campania. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This majestic coastline consists of 13 small villages and towns, with Positano to the west, Amalfi town in the middle, and Vietri sul Mare to the east.

The jagged, gigantic Lattari Mountains cradle the coast, offering a stunning contrast to the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea and Gulf of Salerno below (both part of the Mediterranean Sea). 

It’s no surprise that the Amalfi Coast has been settled since prehistoric times. This stellar illustration of the Mediterranean landscape has seen centuries of maritime, cultural, and artistic evolution. Citrus trees, olive groves, and grapevines thrive in the fertile soil here too!

So you know what that means: lemony pasta, fresh seafood, lemon desserts, and local wine abound!

From mountaintop to seashore, the Amalfi Coast’s vibrant energy, abundant natural beauty, and warm, wisteria-scented breeze will captivate your every sense.

That said, please, allow me to curb your expectations! Every year, the Amalfi Coast grows busier and busier. These days, it’s crowded and relatively expensive (when compared to other Italian beach destinations)… Even the “low” season of early April is pretty busy.

Yet, I still think the Amalfi Coast is well worth visiting. After all, it’s popular for a reason! It’s fun. It’s gorgeous. And you can still find plenty of hidden gems – if you know where to look! (Hint: look here.)

How to Get to the Amalfi Coast

Getting to the Amalfi Coast isn’t as straightforward (or wallet-friendly) as other popular destinations in Italy – but it’s easy enough. Here’s what you need to know!

First, you’ll need to choose your access point: Naples, Sorrento, or Salerno.

If you’re traveling from Northern or Central Italy (i.e. Rome, Venice, or Florence), then Naples or Sorrento should be your access point. If you’re heading up from Southern Italy (i.e. Puglia), then Salerno is best. 

Once you’ve chosen your hub, decide whether to take a ferry, taxi, or bus… 

Take the Ferry

The Amalfi Coast is very well connected by ferries between mid-April and early-October.

The most common direct ferry routes to the Amalfi Coast are: 

• Naples to Amalfi or Positano
• Sorrento to Amalfi or Positano
• Salerno to Amalfi, Cetara, Maiori, Minori, Positano, and Vietri Sul Mare
• Capri to Amalfi, Cetara, Maiori, Minori, Positano, or Vietri Sul Mare
• Ischia to Amalfi or Positano

You can check out the ports and departure times, and book your ferry tickets, here. I highly recommend booking your ferry tickets in advance, especially for travel between May and September!

Once you arrive on the Amalfi Coast, you can hop in a taxi or bus to get to your accommodation.

If your hotel is close, walk. If necessary, you can pay a porter €15/bag to move your luggage for you; this is very handy in steep towns like Positano!

This is the website I always use to research and book ferries in Italy. I highly recommend it!

Arrange a Taxi/Private Transfer

Personally, I prefer the convenience of door-to-door pick-ups and drop-offs in the Amalfi Coast. Even if they cost (a lot) more.

So, how much do taxis to the Amalfi Coast cost?

• From Naples to Positano, you can negotiate a taxi fare as low as €120 (I did recently!). But I have heard of others paying as much as €180. From Naples to Amalfi, you can expect to pay €190.
• From Sorrento to Positano, a taxi should cost around €90. From Sorrento to Amalfi, about €120. 

Flying In?

Is the Amalfi Coast your first stop after flying into Italy? The closest international airport is Naples Airport. From there, you can take a taxi straight to the Amalfi Coast, or head to one of Naples’s ferry ports.

Flying into Rome/Fiumicino? Take the train to Napoli Centrale station first, then follow the above.

HOT TIP: Whichever airport you fly into, please, spend a day eating your way through Naples – the birthplace of pizza! I loved this Naples Street Food Tour With Local Expert; all the food we tried was delicious! Naples may be dirty and chaotic, but it’s a cultural experience you shouldn’t miss! Plus, the history is fascinating. Click here to book your Naples foodie tour.

How to Get Around the Amalfi Coast

Now, let’s talk about how to move from place to place once you’ve arrived on the coast.

Buses

The bus systems (SITA and Mobility Amalfi Coast) are cheap, frequent, and (mostly) reliable; they offer local and regional routes running all season long.

But beware: the buses often fill up completely in high season (think: canned sardines). You may have to wait in line, on the side of the road, in the hot sun, for a while… until a bus with some space appears.

For most bus routes, you can purchase tickets ahead of time in a local bar, tabaccheria (tobacco shop), or newsstand to avoid the chaos of trying to pay when you board.

Ferries

Ferries services are quick, easy, and offer the best views of the Amalfi Coast! Note, only Amalfi, Cetara, Maiori, Minori, Positano, and Vietri sul Mare have ferry ports.

During the off-season (late October through early April), most ferries aren’t in service.

You can click here to search timetables and book your tickets.

You can also purchase tickets directly from port ticket offices – if they’re not sold out already. 

Scooters

Renting a scooter is a great idea for day trips (since parking is easier!), but only if you’re an experienced driver! Click here to book your scooter. 

Taxis/Private Transfers

Private transfers and taxies on the Amalfi Coast are a complete rip-off. But they’re convenient – especially for travelers (like me) who don’t pack light. For example, a taxi from Positano to Amalfi – which is a 40-minute drive – costs about €150! You can ask your hotel concierge to arrange a taxi for you.

Self-Driving

The Amalfi Drive, or the SS163, is a winding, narrow, cliffside road connecting all the coastal towns.

Due to the hectic traffic, lack of clear driving rules, minimal parking as you explore, and expensive overnight parking lots, I do not recommend renting a car when you visit the Amalfi Coast.

It’s totally unnecessary. And, not to mention, stressful.

Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

Last time I went to the Amalfi Coast, I stayed in Positano for 3 nights, and Amalfi town for 4 nights. I highly recommend you do the same, especially if it’s your first time here!

In my opinion, this is the perfect combination for exploring a large portion of the coastline – with easy access to ferry ports for arrival/departure and day trips.

Staying in less-known Amalfi Coast towns – such as Atrani, Praiano, Furore, Minori, Maiori, and Vietri sul Mare – will come with a lower price tag, but you’ll end up spending slightly more time/money in transit to/from and day-tripping.  

Some budget-minded travelers opt to stay in nearby Sorrento (which isn’t on the Amalfi Coast!) for an entire week, taking day trips via ferry and bus. If you’re on a very tight budget, consider this. Sorrento itself is lovely and underrated! You can easily take day trips to the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, and Pompeii. But you’ll spend more time and money in transit, be restricted to ferry/bus schedules, and only ever see the places you visit during the busiest hours. Not ideal, but an option, nevertheless!

Instead, I recommend choosing one or two towns along the Amalfi Coast for your base(s) – such as convenient and beautiful Positano and Amalfi town OR the similarly-located, quieter, more affordable towns of Praiano and Atrani. That way, you’ll get the full experience. You’ll savor slow mornings and epic sunsets in each place; find your favorite restaurants; go swimming; eat all the gelato; and spend less time in transit.

READ MORE: 10 Magical Amalfi Coast Towns to Stay in (For Every Travel Style)

Best Accommodations on the Amalfi Coast

Below are the best accommodations I discovered along the Amalfi Coast, plus some hotels in Sorrento. 

Keep in mind, “budget” hotel options will never be synonymous with “cheap” on this coastline… And especially not in the high season!

Positano

Positano is the most picturesque of all the Amalfi Coast towns. There’s nothing like waking up in Positano, sipping coffee on your sunny hotel balcony, and overlooking the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea.

Positano is easy to reach from Naples. Plus, it has a ferry port, so you can easily take a day trip or two.

I recommend spending up to 3 nights in Positano. 

• Le Sirenuse (ultra-luxury; a worthy splurge you’ll never forget!)
• Hotel Bougainville (mid-range)
• Hotel Conca d’Oro (mid-range; this is where I stayed last time!)
• Venus Inn B&B (“budget”)

Amalfi

Basing yourself in Amalfi town is a great option, thanks to its central location, ferry port, and lots of restaurants and hotels. Many organized experiences (like boat tours, cooking classes, etc.) start/end here.

I recommend spending up to 4 nights in Amalfi town. 

• Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel (luxury)
• Hotel Villa Felice Relais (mid-range)
• MariLeo Amalfi (mid-range)
• Villa Adriana Amalfi (“budget”)
• Hotel Villa Annalara (“budget”)

Atrani

Atrani is the smallest town in all of Italy (by surface area) – and it’s just a ten-minute flat and easy walk from bustling Amalfi town and port. I spent a few days in whimsical Atrani and absolutely love this adorable, peaceful town. 

This is a great swap for Amalfi!

• Palazzo Ferraioli (luxury)
• Atrani House (mid-range)
• Domus Claudia (mid-range)

Ravello

The romantic mountaintop village of Ravello is revered for its opulent and historic villas, gardens, and general loveliness. Staying in Ravello is glamorous, but its mountaintop location doesn’t make for a practical “home base” for day-tripping.

Stay up to two nights here. 

• Caruso, a Belmond Hotel (ultra-luxury)
• Palazzo Confalone (luxury)
• Hotel Parsifal (mid-range)
• Gala Residence Villa Giovanna (mid-range)

Sorrento

Looking for the most bang for your buck? Consider staying in Sorrento and take day trips to the Amalfi Coast and beyond. Sorrento’s public transportation is easy, cheap, and plentiful. 

• Grand Hotel Ambasciatori (luxury)
• Mistral Luxury Suites (mid-range)
• B&B Verù (budget)

READ MORE: 10 Magical Amalfi Coast Towns to Stay in (For Every Travel Style)

Still looking? Here’s my favorite website for finding the best deals on Amalfi Coast accommodations – from luxury resorts and hotels, to vacation rentals and B&Bs. Free cancellation is usually included, so you can book with confidence. The best places in Amalfi sell out far in advance between May and September!

Dreamiest Amalfi Coast Itinerary (Up to 7 Days)

Ready to dive into the daily details of this itinerary? Andiamo!

Day 1: Take in the Beauty of Positano

Welcome to the spectacular Amalfi Coast! No Amalfi Coast itinerary is complete without visiting Positano. The picture-perfect black-sand beach, bougainvillea-laced walls, and dazzling atmosphere will leave you smitten! 

Positano is known as the “vertical city” because of its marvelous stacked buildings that cling to the cliffside and peer out over the Tyrrhenian Sea.

While you’re here, focus less on “doing” and more on “being”. As the kids say, Positano oozes “main character energy,” so take all the pleasure in strolling, sitting, sipping, and staring at those stunning views!

While in Positano, make an obligatory stop at Positano’s iconic church, Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta. Catch some Mediterranean sun at Spiaggia Grande, or choose the quieter option, Fornillo Beach.

And, of course, peruse the upscale boutiques, ceramics shops, and little souvenir stands. 

And finally, make your way to a series of bars and restaurants for aperitif hour(s)! Some of my favorite restaurants in Positano include Posides, lI Tridente (at Hotel Poseidon), and Mediterraneo.

Oh, and don’t miss L’alternativa Cocktail Bar on the Pier; this little shack is home to the best to-go cocktails in Positano for fair prices. Take your €6 Aperol spritz to the sand, why don’t you?

Day 2: Hike the Path of the Gods, Explore Praiano & Beach Time

It’s Day 2. How does a little nature adventure sound? Followed by some beach time?

Hike the Path of the Gods

Ready to work off all that pasta, pizza, and Aperol? Hit the most famous hiking trail on the Amalfi Coast: The Path of The Gods (“Il Sentiero Degli Dei”).

Hiking the ancient Path of The Gods is the best way to experience the coast’s landscapes, terraced farms, fresh air, and sea views… But only if you start early enough to beat the heat and the crowds!

I recommend taking the earliest bus from Positano up to Nocelle to get started.

From Nocelle, you have two great options: 

• Complete the entire one-way 3.7-mile hike, from Nocelle to Bomerano. It’ll take you 3 to 4 hours to finish.
• Choose the shorter version, from Nocelle to Praiano. This option takes about 2 hours. (Recommended option!)

Obviously, you can choose to hike these routes in reverse, too!

Want to learn about this trail’s rich history and significance? Try this Trail of the Gods Hike with Local Guide Saveria Fiore.

Click here to book your epic guided journey of the Path of The Gods.

Visit Praiano

If you hike from Nocelle to Praiano, then you’ll have the pleasure of strolling through one of the Amalfi Coast’s loveliest seaside towns!

Adorned in colorful ceramics and boasting gorgeous views of the coastline, Praiano is a gem hidden in plain sight. Make sure to admire the floor vibrant tiles in the main piazza and inside Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Gennaro.

Then, stop by Che Bontà for some pizza and ice-cold beer.

You can catch the bus back to Positano – or hike back up, up, UP to Nocelle if you dare!

Beach Time in Positano

If you start your hiking adventure early, you’ll have plenty of time to soak up the sun and swim when you return to Positano. 

When it comes to beach clubs, choose between Arienzo Beach Club, Pupetto Beach Club, or La Scogliera (reservations are recommended for all three).

Otherwise, find a spot to lay your towel down on the public (free!) section of Spiaggia Grande or Fornillo Beach and enjoy!

HOT TIP: Want a printable copy of this Amalfi Coast itinerary? Get it here.

Day 3: Take a Day Trip to Capri Island

Though it’s not really part of the Amalfi Coast, a boat day trip to Capri island is a must on everyone’s Amalfi Coast itinerary! Did someone say caprese salad?

Get ready to shop, eat, swim, boat, and soak up that coveted Mediterranean sunshine on Capri.

Best Things to Do in Capri

Capri is a big island, so you won’t have enough time to see it all in a day! Therefore, I recommend prioritizing a boat tour to see this wondrous limestone island from the water.

Then, choose to explore either Capri town or Anacapri town.

Below are some of the top things to do and see on the island:

• Go on a short boat tour around the island to see the Faraglioni Rocks, Arco Naturale, and the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), Grotta Bianca (White Grotto), and Grotta Verde (Green Grotto); note, this activity is already included in organized day trips from the mainland like this one from Positano.
• Take the funicular from Marina Grande up to Capri town to shop and explore
• Stroll through the lovely Giardini di Augusto (Gardens of Augustus)
• Walk down Via Krupp to Marina Piccola
• Visit the cute town of Anacapri and see Villa San Michele
• Take the chair lift from Anacapri to Monte Solaro for incredible views
• Hang at a beautiful beach like Marina Di Mulo, Gradola, or Torre Saracena
• In Anacapri, have lunch at Sciue’ Sciue’. This place goes down in history as one of the BEST meals I’ve ever had in Italy. Period.

HOT TIP: Consider staying in Capri overnight to see it all! The next day, take the ferry back to Amalfi town (instead of Positano), and move into your new hotel in Amalfi/Atrani. Or, better yet, take a multi-day trip to the neighboring island of Ischia, Italy; it’s my favorite place in the whole country!

How to Get to Capri

To get to Capri, you can take the ferry on your own, or book an organized boat tour to make your life easier.

Best Organized Capri Island Boat Tours

Here are the best boat tours to Capri! Each option will ensure you see Capri’s main points of interest, with plenty of free time on the island. Your main consideration is where you should be picked up from (i.e. Positano, Amalfi, Sorrento, Naples, or Capri itself).

• Full-Day Capri Island Cruise (from Positano, Praiano, or Amalfi)
• Capri All-Inclusive Small Group Tour (from Positano)
• Private Capri Island and Blue Grotto Day Tour (from Naples or Sorrento)
• Group Capri Boat Tour Cruise (from Sorrento)
• Capri Boat and Walking Tour (from Naples or Capri)
• Capri Island Boat Ride with Swimming, Sights, and Limoncello (from Capri)

Taking the Ferry to Capri

If you want to take a self-guided day trip to Capri, simply book a round-trip ferry service. There are direct ferries from ports like Amalfi, Positano, Sorrento, and Vietri sul Mare.

When I went, I booked one of the earliest fast ferries from Positano to Capri (at 9:15 AM) and the last one back (at 6 PM). The journey took 30 minutes each way and cost €55 roundtrip.

Click here to research timetables and book your ferry tickets in advance!

Day 4: Boat Tour, Agriturismo Lunch, Amalfi Town, Dinner in Atrani

On Day 4, go on this half-day boat and snorkel tour, enjoy an amazing farm-fresh lunch at a nearby agriturismo, explore Amalfi town, and enjoy a late dinner in nearby Atrani!

Morning Boat & Snorkeling Tour from Amalfi

After a coffee and croissant, head straight to Amalfi’s port for an unmissable experience: this Small-Group, Half-Day Amalfi Coast Boat and Snorkeling Tour.

The morning option leaves at 9:30 AM; there’s also a 2:30 PM.

On this epic boat tour, we boated west, stopping at many caves and coves for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear water.

We boated into Amalfi’s only fjord, the Fiordo di Furore. Sipped on limoncello (of course!). Munched on fresh fruits. And looked up in awe at the incredible limestone cliffs.

Finally, the journey peaked as we anchored in front of Positano’s Spiaggia Grande and popped a bottle of prosecco. What a view! 

Whether you want to go on the same boat tour I did, book a full-day private boat tour, or even rent a boat to drive yourself (no boat license required!), you can’t go wrong!

An intimate boat tour like this is a must while in Amalfi!

Farm-to-Table Lunch in Amalfi 

Back in Amalfi town, it’s time for a delicious lunch! Ready for a foodie adventure?

Agricola Fore Porta is an organic farm-to-table restaurant – A.K.A. an agriturismo – perched in the low-lying hills behind Amalfi town.

An easy 20-minute walk through citrus groves will deliver you to a natural foodie oasis where it’s impossible to be anything but happy. 

Sit, order a lemon granita to cool off, and enjoy every moment. 

The menu at Agricola Fore Porta changes every day based on the season. When I went, we ordered the antipasto della casa – with different cold cuts, cheeses, and veggie bites; melanzane parmigiana; two different pasta dishes; and some craft cocktails. So lovely! 

Make a reservation via Whatsapp. The last seating is at 2:30 PM. 

Explore Amalfi Town

Welcome to the namesake town of the Amalfi Coast.

Ready to delight in local specialties such as limoncello, soft handmade paper, cuoppo fritto (fried seafood cones), lemon-ricotta ravioli, lemon granita, and of course, delizie al limone (a famous Amalfi dessert)?

If that sounds like a dream, that’s because it is.

Spend your afternoon strolling about Amalfi’s main street, Via Lorenzo D’Amalfi, while savoring the sights, scents, and flavors of bustling Amalfi. 

Things to Do in Amalfi Town

While in Amalfi, make sure to…

• Sunbathe at Amalfi’s main beach, Marina Grande Beach; rent a spot at Tonino’s Lido (€30 per day for an umbrella and 2 daybeds) or find a public spot
• Visit the stunning Duomo di Amalfi (Amalfi Cathedral) complex; the ornate details inside the cathedral and creepy crypt are bewildering!
• Sit on the cathedral steps and watch as people buzz around the Fontana di Sant’Andrea (Fountain of Saint Andrew) in the Piazza Duomo
• Discover Amalfi paper at the Museo Della Carta (Museum of Paper)
• Grab a table at Pasticceria Pansa Amalfi and order the original delizia al limone and an espresso
• Have pizza and lemon-ricotta ravioli at Pizzeria Donna Stella; the deck is completely covered in lemon trees – so charming!
• Browse the many boutique shops selling lemon-inspired everything and handmade Amalfi paper stationery
• Learn about the Amalfi Coast’s fascinating maritime history at the Antico Arsenale della Repubblica di Amalfi (Maritime History Museum)

Dinner in Atrani

At dinner time (around 8 PM in Italy!), take a 10-minute stroll over to Atrani. This may be the tiniest town in all of Italy by surface area, but this fishing village boasts big charm!

There’s no major “to see” list here. Stroll along the black-sand beach. Check out Piazza Umberto, the main square. And snap a few photos. Keep it simple!

For dinner, grab some pizza at Le Palme or order some fresh seafood pasta from Il Veliero. And a glass of local Amalfi white wine from Furore, while you’re at it!

RELATED READING: 19 Best Things to Do in the Amalfi Coast

Day 5: Visit Ravello & Take an Afternoon Cooking Class

This day may just be the highlight of your Amalfi Coast vacation!

Today, explore the enchanting town of Ravello, take this super fun cooking class, and spend the evening back in Amalfi town.

Visit Ravello

There are plenty of things to do in Ravello, so this Amalfi Coast itinerary includes time to relish the elegance of Amalfi Coast’s most romantic town! You only need a half-day to see it all.

Things to Do in Ravello

Once you arrive in Ravello, take some time to explore the little town square and the Duomo di Ravello. Savor a cornetto and an espresso. Then, head to Villa Rufolo, followed by Villa Cimbrone!

At both villas, you’ll pay a small entrance fee to admire the impossibly perfect gardens, striking architecture, and wondrous vistas of Amalfi’s rugged hills and sparkling blue seas.

Villa Cimbrone’s lavish gardens, fountains, statues, and sculptures are captivating… But the Terrazza dell’Infinito (Terrace of Infinity) is the pièce de résistance. Pass under the “doorway to the sun” to witness the seven marble busts welcoming you to the ultimate viewpoint of the entire Amalfi Coast!

Hungry? Head to Babel Wine Bar Deli & Art.

Before you go, make sure to browse the beautiful ceramics shops. Here’s my list of the best things to do in Ravello in one day. 

HOT TIP: Want a printable copy of this Amalfi Coast itinerary? Get it here.

How to Get to Ravello

First thing in the morning, make your way up to Ravello from Amalfi. The earlier, the better to beat the crowds and heat! 

You can take the 30-minute 5110 SITA bus round trip, but I recommend hiking at least one way. It’s steep, but the coastal views and lemon-scented breeze are so rewarding! Plus, it only takes about 50 minutes to hike one way.

If you want to hike, first, walk to Atrani. Find the stairs to the right of Atrani’s main church, Collegiate Santa Maria Maddalena, and start climbing! There are plenty of signs (and cats) to help you along the way!

RELATED READING: 11 Best Things to Do in Ravello (In 1 Day!)

Cooking Class in Amalfi

After exploring Ravello, beeline it to this super fun Hands-on Cooking Class & Farmhouse Visit in Amalfi! Note: I recommend booking the 2:30 or 3 PM option; I’ve managed to fit Ravello and this class into one day before, so I know you can too!

Nestled into the mountains, on a lush piece of farmland, overlooking the sea, the location for this outdoor cooking class couldn’t be more idyllic. It’s breathtaking!

We started by collecting fresh ingredients from the garden – with an ice-cold, fresh-squeezed lemonade in hand. Then, we made all kinds of delicious, classic dishes from scratch!

The menu changes based on the season, but one thing is constant: free-flowing local wine!

During my class, we made different types of bruschetta; ricotta-stuffed zucchini blossoms; lots of delicious salads; local pesto with sundried tomatoes, anchovies, capers; gnocchi alla Sorrentina; and more… It was a feast

And our host, Mamma Rosetta, cracked jokes and (lovingly) scolded us the whole time. Delicious, educational, and so much fun!

You’ll love this experience. Click here to book your Hands-on Cooking Class & Farmhouse visit in Amalfi. 

Relaxing Evening in Amalfi

After your cooking class, you’ll probably be too full for dinner… But another wine or a negroni in the piazza won’t hurt! Enjoy this evening relaxing in Amalfi!

Day 6: Visit Off-the-Beaten-Path Vietri Sul Mare

On Day 6, take the scenic route (A.K.A. the ferry!) to explore the hidden gem of the Amalfi Coast: Vietri sul Mare. 

You can book your ferry from Amalfi to Vietri sul Mare (and back) here! 

Explore Vietri sul Mare

If you were to look at an Amalfi Coast map, you’d find Vietri sul Mare on the eastern edge of the coastline. This destination is often overlooked, but I think it should be included in every Amalfi Coast itinerary.

Vietri is one of the most picturesque villages on the Amalfi Coast! Plus, this town is a historic producer of traditional Italian ceramics.

Stay here a night, or spend a half-day seeing all the highlights. Don’t forget to snag a handmade ceramic souvenir (obviously!), and swim at one of the spectacular beaches!

P.S. Vietri Beach is the longest stretch of sandy beach on the Amalfi Coast. Visit the Amalfi Coast in October like I did once, and you may have it all to yourself!

Things to Do in Vietri sul Mare

• Learn about the heritage of Vietri’s ceramics, and admire the many colorful masterpieces, at Museo Provinciale della Ceramica (Provincial Museum of Ceramics)
• Admire the iconic majolica (riggiole) dome of the cathedral, Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Giovanni Battista (Church of St. John the Baptist)
• Hang out at the quirky, ceramic-adorned Villa Comunale Vietri sul Mare (City Park of Vietri sul Mare), known as the “Parc Güell of Amalfi Coast”, and soak in vistas of Vietri’s spectacular landscapes.
• Book a guided tour of a local, boutique organic vineyard
• Take a photo on the artsy and colorful Instagram Street (above), embellished with more ceramics, of course!

RELATED READING: 10 Magnificent Things to Do in Vietri sul Mare, Italy

Day 7: Beach Time, Fiordo di Furore, and Grotta dello Smeraldo

It’s your last day on the Amalfi Coast. Pencil in some beach time, or go on an adventure. Italy’s only fjord and an emerald sea cave await!

Beach Time

By Day 7, I’m sure you’ll have found your favorite beach along the coast – or learned about a secret spot from a local. Or, maybe you decided to splurge on another reservation at a beach club.

It’s time to spend a few hours relaxing! 

Fiordo di Furore

The Fiordo di Furore is a picturesque beach framed by the bridge of the Amalfi Coast Road overhead. You’ll find beach access via stairs just off the road! 

Maybe you recognize this beach from the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series! But you don’t need to cliff dive to enjoy the glimmering water and warm pebble beach.

Grotta dello Smeraldo

Not to be confused with the Blue Grotto of Capri, the Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Grotto) is a small sea cave in the small town of Conca dei Marina. The grotta is lit up from natural light passing under the rock formations. It’s a cool sight, and the tour is short but sweet.

Tickets to enter (which include a boat tour) cost €10 per person. 

How to Get There

Wondering how to get to these sites? You can walk carefully along the coastal road (not recommended!), take the Mobility Amalfi Coast bus, or try one of the many boat tours.

This Amalfi Coast Private Boat Tour from Positano, Praiano or Amalfi brings you to see the grotto and fjord, with a glass of prosecco in hand (perfect for bigger groups, as it’s a little pricey on your own!). Click here to book it. 

Tonight, make your way to Sorrento for a bonus day tomorrow!

HOT TIP: Want a printable PDF copy of this Amalfi Coast itinerary? Get yours here.

Day 8 (Bonus Day!): Visit Sorrento & Pompeii

Ah, a day of strolling about the streets of historic Sorrento on the beautiful Sorrento Coast.

It’s nice to take your final day of sightseeing in Sorrento at your leisure. I know the leg-burning effects of Amalfi Coast stairs and hills all too well!

Explore Sorrento

While in Sorrento, people-watch in Piazza Tasso and snap up all the last-minute, lemon-inspired souvenirs. The mini lemon soaps are to die for! Not to mention, they make your luggage smell amazing.

Visit the Cathedral of Saints Philip and James and sit in the Villa Comunale with the locals for some of the best people-watching.

Walk along the railing over the water and sink into gratitude as you peer out over the Gulf of Naples at Mount Vesuvius. It’s a blessing to be here!

And finally, to wrap up your lovely day exploring, have a romantic dinner at L’Antica Trattoria. My solo dinner date here was by far one of the most decadent meals and fanciest dining experiences of my life!

Pompeii & Mt. Vesuvius

If you want to spend your last day doing something super epic, then I have just the thing for you! A tour of Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius will be the cherry on top of your perfect Amalfi Coast trip!

Roam the fascinating archaeological site of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with your expert guide, and learn about how the devastating eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in AD 79 preserved the village – and the paintings, artifacts, and thousands of villagers inside of it – in a blanket of ash and pumice. Then, hike up to the crater rim of the volcano. What a day!

I haven’t been on this specific Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius tour. But I can report first-hand, Pompeii is 1,000% worth seeing.

Click here to book your Skip-The-Line Pompeii Guided Tour & Mt. Vesuvius Trip from Sorrento.

The Dreamiest Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 3 to 7 Days

I hope this Amalfi Coast itinerary (for up to one week) helps you create lifelong memories under the Mediterranean sun – swimming in the sparkling blue seas and strolling along the streets of the beautiful Amalfi Coast towns.

In addition to abundant natural and historic wonders, you’ll find that simply being present, and noticing the details of daily life on the Amalfi Coast, is magic. Pause to breathe it all in, pet the adorable cats, connect with locals, and savor the moment. An Amalfi Coast trip is a dream come true! 

You’ll soon discover why this UNESCO site is a “bucket list” destination. The aroma of lemon trees, warm Italian hospitality, and refreshing Tyrrhenian Sea never cease to amaze.

Enchanting memories made during your Amalfi Coast trip will beg you to bring your daydream to fruition once again. You’ll be back!

Amalfi Coast Packing List

• Swimsuit(s)
• Quick-dry Turkish towel
• Sunscreen (natural and reef-safe)
• Floppy sun hat
• Flowy summer dresses
• Long and beachy skirts
• Light scarf/shawl (for evenings, sun protection, and visiting churches)
• Light, breathable clothes for warm weather
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Flip flops or beach sandals
• Cute yet comfy sandals
• Daypack for hiking
• Insulated, refillable water bottle
• Waterproof drybag for boat trips
• GoPro for underwater photos 
• Universal or European travel adapter
• Travel insurance (Please, make sure you’re covered while abroad. Accidents happen.)

Amalfi Coast Itinerary: FAQs