The Amalfi Coast, in my opinion, is one of Europe’s top travel destinations that truly lives up to the hype. I know that’s not always something you can say about the world’s most famous destinations, but after spending nearly 3 weeks exploring this stretch of coastline, I can tell you that the pictures genuinely don’t do it justice!

After deeply exploring the coast, I can confidently say that 5 days in the Amalfi Coast is the perfect amount of time to hit all the highlights without feeling rushed.

While you could easily spend weeks exploring the ins and outs of the Amalfi Coast as I did, I understand that this isn’t a realistic option for most visitors, especially not for those who are planning a grand Italy tour and want to visit multiple cities and regions all in one trip!

This 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary will share everything you need to know to ensure that you experience 5 incredible days in the Amalfi Coast, including where to stay, tips for getting around, the best things to do, and splurge-worthy activities to indulge in during your time in the Amalfi Coast!

The Best Time to Visit the Amalfi Coast

Hands down, the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is during shoulder season, particularly late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October), when you can expect excellent weather without the summer crowds and inflated prices. October is absolutely fantastic for visiting, since the sea is still warm enough for swimming after months of summer heat, but the oppressive crowds have thinned out, and temperatures are more comfortable for hiking and exploring. We visited in October and couldn’t have been happier with the timing! We had almost entirely sunny days in the mid-70s (which still feels quite hot in the intense Mediterranean sun!), calm seas perfect for swimming and boat trips, and restaurants that weren’t completely packed.

You can comfortably swim from May through October, with water temperatures ranging from refreshingly chilly in late spring to bathwater-warm in August and September. November through March is generally too cold for swimming (though you may see the occasional local go for a dip), with water temperatures dropping significantly. Summer months (July-August) offer the warmest weather and longest days, but you can expect insane crowds, higher prices, and intense heat that can make hiking trails like the Path of the Gods pretty brutal, if not dangerous. Late September through mid-October offers the perfect combination of warm weather, swimmable seas, and a much more chill atmosphere.

Getting to & Around the Amalfi Coast

Which Airport Should You Fly Into?

The most popular Airport to fly into for an Amalfi Coast trip is Naples International Airport, which is about an hour away from the Amalfi Coast. Recently, an international Airport also opened in Salerno,
Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport, which is also around an hour from the Amalfi Coast. Salerno can be a convenient option for European travelers, but Naples is generally the best option for those traveling from outside of Europe.

Getting Around During Your 5 Days on the Amalfi Coast

Transportation between towns on the Amalfi Coast can be tricky, so it’s important to plan ahead for your 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary:

• Public Bus (SITA): Affordable and convenient, these buses connect all the major towns. However, they fill up quickly during peak season, so travel early and allow buffer time in case you need to wait for the next bus.
• Ferry: Ferries are hands down one of the best ways to get around the Amalfi Coast. They connect most major towns like Positano, Amalfi, Salerno, Sorrento, and Capri, making them a scenic and comfortable alternative to the crowded buses. Just keep in mind that ferries only operate from spring through fall and are weather-dependent, so always double-check the schedule.
• Taxi: Taxis are an option, but they can be pretty expensive when you are on the coast. You can expect to pay at least 50 euros between towns, one way. A private taxi from Positano to Amalfi averages around 120 euros!! 
• Scooter or Vespa: This can be a fun and convenient way to get around the coast, but risky in practice, unless you’re experienced with driving scooters on curvy roads. Accidents are common, and it’s not worth ruining your vacation if you are inexperienced.
• Guided Tour: If you want to see lots of attractions along the coast but you don’t want to deal with the hassle of public transportation or finding parking, a guided tour is a great option! 
• Rental Car: As I mentioned earlier, a rental car offers flexibility but comes with its own challenges. If you rent a car, choose a hotel that offers guaranteed parking and make sure to research parking spots ahead of time, or you’ll have a bad experience driving around the coast.
• Walking: Walking is the best way to explore each town individually, and you can even trek between towns if you’re feeling adventurous! For example, the walk from Praiano to Positano (either along the main road or via the Path of the Gods) is doable, but expect 30,000+ steps in a day. It’s ideal for hiking lovers, but can be exhausting in the summer heat.

Where to Stay in the Amalfi Coast

For this 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary, I recommend choosing one base instead of swapping hotels every night. Constantly packing and unpacking can eat into your precious travel time, and it’s much more relaxing to settle in one place and just take day trips to nearby towns.

The best bases for this itinerary are Positano or its quieter neighbor, Praiano. Positano is the Amalfi Coast’s most famous town, known for its colorful cliffside houses, chic boutiques, and iconic beach clubs. It’s well-connected by ferries and buses, making it a great base to explore the coast. The only downside is that it is also the busiest and priciest town along the coast, so it may not be the best choice for budget travelers or those looking for a quieter, more local vibe.

Alternatively, Praiano is just a short bus ride away and offers a more peaceful and affordable alternative. It’s less crowded, has stunning sunset views, and still provides easy access to Positano, Amalfi, and the Path of the Gods hike. Praiano is also a little more centrally located in the Amalfi Coast, so it will cut down on travel time to other towns and excursions along the coast.

Both towns make excellent jumping-off points, and where you stay ultimately depends on whether you prefer the glitz of Positano or the laid-back charm of Praiano.

Many tourists visiting the Amalfi Coast will split their time, splurging on a couple of nights in Positano, then staying in Amalfi for the last few nights. This is definitely an option too; however, keep in mind that taxis in the Amalfi Coast are extraordinarily expensive (you’ll probably be paying at least 100 euros just to transfer between towns). Personally, I’d prefer just to have one base for the whole 5 days in the Amalfi Coast, taking day trips from there, rather than jumping from town to town.

Day 1: Positano

Once you’ve checked into your hotel, take the time to explore your surroundings and relax on the beach in Positano. Positano is the most iconic town along the Amalfi Coast, and you’ll definitely want to take the time soaking it all in!

Explore Positano Town:

Start off your time in the Amalfi Coast by getting your bearings and wandering through Positano Town. The town itself is small and quaint, and it doesn’t take too much time to explore if you stick to the main tourist areas. Make sure to walk through Via Cristoforo Colombo, Positano’s main street, where you’ll find lovely views and lots of restaurants, boutiques, and souvenir shops.

Swim & Relax at Positano’s Beaches

Head straight to Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach that’s famous for its postcard-worthy views of colorful houses cascading down its towering cliffs. It can get quite crowded, depending on the time of year you visit, but once you’re in the sea, you’ll have plenty of space to soak in the views as you float in the crystalline waters!  If you prefer something quieter, walk about 10 minutes along the coastal path to Spiaggia Fornillo. It’s smaller, more peaceful, and feels a bit more local.

If you don’t want to spend 70 euros on sun chairs, there are free spots on both beaches where you can spread out your towel. Just make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, since you won’t have umbrella coverage. The sun in the Amalfi Coast can be super intense!

Indulge in an Unforgettable Dinner

Dining in Positano is as much about the views as it is about the food, and trust me, you’ll want to splurge at least once on your 5-day Amalfi Coast trip. Ristorante La Sponda at Le Sirenuse is the ultimate romantic experience, with ivy-covered terraces lit by hundreds of flickering candles and delicious Michelin-starred cuisine. It’s expensive, but absolutely magical for a special occasion.

For something equally stunning but slightly more budget-friendly, try Il Tridente at Hotel Poseidon, with its incredible rooftop views, or Li Galli Bistrot for a more casual terrace experience that won’t completely break the bank. Just remember to book ahead as restaurant spots fill up fast, especially during peak season!

Watch the Sunset

Positano is gorgeous at golden hour, and sunsets here are incredible. Make sure to set aside time to watch the sunset. I suggest watching the sunset on Via Cristoforo Colombo, near Hotel Marincanto, for some of the best views! But honestly, sunset is beautiful from pretty much any angle in Positano. If you decide to base yourself in Positano, make sure to set aside time on most evenings to enjoy the magical sunsets.

Day 2: Explore Praiano

On day 2 of your 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary, get away from the crowds and head to Praiano, which is just 20 minutes from Positano by SITA bus (save your money and skip the expensive taxis unless you’re moving hotels). This hidden gem offers everything Positano has, but with a much more authentic, laid-back vibe.

Wander Through Praiano’s Charming Streets

Take your time exploring this peaceful town, where you’ll actually still see locals going about their daily lives. As you climb higher up in the town, you’ll see colorful ceramic artwork decorating the pathways, and the views just keep getting better! It’s the kind of place where you can grab a cappuccino and actually sit next to Italian nonnas instead of tour groups!

Relax at Marina di Praia

First, stop at Marina di Praia, a picturesque pebbled beach tucked into a natural cove. The water is crystal clear, and there’s something so peaceful about floating here while listening to waves echoing off the dramatic cliff walls. There’s also a small area with bars and restaurants, and beach chairs are available for rent.

Lunch with a View

For lunch, I suggest dining at Kasai restaurant, which is perched right on the cliffs, offering sweeping coastal views and serving absolutely delicious Italian dishes. The seafood pasta is incredible! If you want a romantic seaside meal, Ristorante Franchino near Marina di Praia offers fine dining with intimate seaside views.

End your day with a sunset cruise

For a special end to your day, I suggest going on a sunset charter cruise, where you can watch the incredible sunset behind Positano and Praiano from the sea. For the ultimate romantic experience, I highly recommend splurging on a private sunset cruise. This is definitely a must for special occasions, and it was definitely a highlight for us during our time in the Amalfi Coast! You can choose to either leave from Marina di Praia or head back to Positano to board your cruise. 

**Note, if you decide to book a hotel in Praiano as your base instead of Positano, I suggest doing this on day one of your 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary and visiting Positano on day 2 instead.

Day 3: Hike the Path of the Gods

On day 3 of your 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary, you’ll spend the morning hiking one of Italy’s most spectacular (and famous!) trails, known as the Path of the Gods! This 2.5-hour hike starts from the mountain village of Bomerano and ends in Nocelle, a village above Positano. This is one of the best things to do in the Amalfi Coast, and I promise you’ll experience some of the most breathtaking clifftop views you’ve ever seen!

To hike the Path of the Gods, take an early SITA bus to Bomerano, the village where the trail for the Path of the Gods begins. Alternatively, you could start from Nocelle, which is a small village above Positano; however, starting from Bomerano and hiking to Nocelle is much easier, since it’s mostly downhill. There are also plenty of guided hikes available, many of which include an experienced guide and transportation to and from your hotel. I suggest booking a tour with pickup available for the smoothest experience!

Once you reach Nocelle, reward yourself with fresh lemonade and enjoy some of the best views over Positano. You can either walk 1,500 steps down to Positano or take the local bus. If you book a guided tour, you’ll be provided with transport back to your hotel.

Afterward, I suggest grabbing a well-deserved lunch and spending the rest of the day relaxing in Positano, especially if you are based there. There’s no better way to unwind after a hot hike under the Mediterranean sun than going for a refreshing swim!

Alternative: Day Trip to Capri

If you are not a hiker, I suggest taking a day trip to Capri on day 3 of your 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary. You can take the ferry from Positano or Amalfi, or sign up for a guided tour that handles all the logistics.

Day 4: Furore & Amalfi

On day 4 of your 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary, you’ll explore the second most famous town in the Amalfi Coast, Amalfi, and the lesser-known nearby town of Furore. 

Head to Furore

After fueling up on breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe, take the SITA bus to Furore, a charming town that’s famous for its stunning “Fiordo di Furore”, which you’ll be visiting during your time here, of course!

Furore is small, but definitely worth exploring for a bit. Similar to Praiano, it has a lovely local feel and atmosphere that’s completely different from the more famous tourist towns along the coast. You’ll see locals going about their daily routines, and it’s refreshing to experience a slower pace after the hustle and bustle of places like Positano and Amalfi.

Optional Activity: Zipline down the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast!

A cool hidden gem you’ll find in Furore is Zipline Italia – the only zipline in the Amalfi Coast! If you’re feeling adventurous, I recommend stopping here before you make your way down to Fiordo di Furore. We had a blast zipping down the clifftop, and the coastal views from the zipline were phenomenal! You’ll end the zipline in the neighboring town of Conca Dei Marini, which is another charming coastal town that feels worlds away from tourist hotspots like Positano and Amalfi. If you have time, I suggest exploring the town a little – it’s the perfect spot to grab an espresso and take in sea views and local atmosphere.

Fiordo di Furore

After exploring the town for a while, head to Fiordo di Furore, hands down the most unique beach you’ll find on the entire Amalfi Coast. As the name suggests, Fiordo di Furore is actually a fjord, where a narrow inlet of sea cuts dramatically into the cliffs, creating a stunning beach that’s perfect for relaxation.

The beach sits beneath a picturesque arched bridge that connects the cliffs of the fjord, and the water is a beautiful turquoise color.

While the beach area is quite narrow, it extends for quite a long way back into the cliffs, so even if you visit during the busier summer months, you’ll still be able to find a spot to lay your towel out. It’s a pebbled beach, and it can be a bit rough on bare feet, so I’d recommend bringing water shoes if you have them. The swimming here is fantastic, though, and the water is crystal clear and refreshingly cool, since the beach gets a lot of shade during the daytime. The water was a little murkier than usual when we went because it had stormed heavily the day before, but we still had an amazing time and spent a couple of hours swimming and soaking in the views. We even saw some people cliff jumping from the stairs while we were here – something we were DEFINITELY not brave enough to do ourselves! 😂

Just keep in mind that getting down to the beach area involves a steep walk down some stairs, and there aren’t any facilities like bathrooms or snack bars, so come prepared with water and any snacks you might want for the day.

Head to Amalfi Town

After spending time in Furore, hop on the SITA bus for the 20-minute ride to Amalfi. You’ll notice a completely different vibe here since Amalfi caters much more heavily to tourists than the quieter towns you’ve been visiting. Don’t let that put you off, though! The main tourist areas around the cathedral and waterfront can feel pretty crowded, but if you venture further inland into the town’s back streets, you’ll find a more authentic atmosphere.

Grab Lunch in Amalfi

After all that swimming at Fiordo di Furore, you’ll definitely have worked up an appetite, and Amalfi has some great dining options. La Rua Pizze e Delizie serves excellent pizza and is tucked away in the town center, away from the main tourist crowds. For a more traditional sit-down meal, Taverna degli Apostoli is located right next to the Duomo and offers classic Italian dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

For a more upscale meal, Sensi Restaurant is a Michelin Guide restaurant that serves refined Italian cuisine with a modern twist. If you’re craving dessert after your meal, Pasticceria Pansa Amalfi is a local bakery near the Duomo where you can try the famous lemon sorbet served in an actual lemon, plus other tasty traditional pastries!

Visit the Duomo di Amalfi

After lunch, head to Amalfi’s most famous landmark, the Duomo di Amalfi, which overlooks the main piazza in the town center. This stunning cathedral features beautiful Arab-Norman architecture with an impressive facade and colorful majolica tiles. Entry to the cathedral costs €4, and inside you’ll find beautiful mosaics, marble columns, and religious artifacts. The adjacent Cloister of Paradise (included in the entry fee) is particularly beautiful with its Moorish-style arches and peaceful garden courtyard.

Optional Activity: Visit the Paper Museum

If you want to see something most tourists skip, check out the Museo della Carta (Paper Museum). It’s located in a quieter part of town and tells the fascinating story of Amalfi’s centuries-old papermaking tradition. You can watch demonstrations of the original techniques used to make handmade paper, and the museum is housed in a restored paper mill. It’s a nice break from the crowds and gives you insight into Amalfi’s historical importance as a maritime trading power.

Walk the Waterfront and Visit Amalfi Beach

Amalfi’s waterfront promenade is perfect for an afternoon stroll. It’s lined with cafes, gelato shops, and small boutiques, and it’s one of those places where you can just wander without any particular plan. Amalfi Beach is right there if you feel like cooling off with a quick swim. It’s not the most spectacular beach on the coast since it’s located right next to the busy port, but it’s convenient, and the water is still refreshing after a day of sightseeing.

Explore Tiny Atrani

Before heading back to your hotel, take a few minutes to walk to Atrani, which is located (quite literally) right next to Amalfi. This is officially Italy’s smallest town and one of the most underrated spots on the entire coast. It takes maybe 10 minutes to explore the whole place, but it’s got this charming, authentic feel that’s completely different from the busier towns.

Atrani has a small beach that’s nice for a quick dip if you want to cool off, and the town square is surrounded by colorful houses and local cafes. You can easily walk between Amalfi and Atrani in just a few minutes, so it’s worth the short detour to see this hidden gem!

Day 5: Ravello & Your Final Coastal Moments

On the final day of your 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary, you’ll head to the clifftop town of Ravello, which is renowned for its beautiful gardens and stunning coastal views. Ravello is definitely the most touristic town in the Amalfi Coast that’s NOT on the water, but it still has a lovely, authentic atmosphere and is still far less busy than Positano and Amalfi.

Visit Ravello’s Gardens: Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone

Start your morning early at these two stunning clifftop gardens. Villa Rufolo features beautifully manicured gardens with incredible views over the coast, and it’s famous for inspiring Wagner’s opera “Parsifal.” The entrance fee is €7, and you can easily spend an hour or more here just wandering the gardens and taking in the views.

Villa Cimbrone is the real showstopper, though. The famous “Terrace of Infinity” offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views on the entire Amalfi Coast. The gardens are filled with statues, pathways, and countless photo opportunities. Entry costs €8, and I’d recommend spending at least an hour and a half here, since there’s so much to see.

Explore Ravello’s Streets

After the gardens, take time to wander through Ravello’s peaceful streets and piazzas. This town has such a different energy from the coastal areas you’ve been visiting. It’s more refined and artistic, with small galleries, cozy cafes, and local shops selling handmade ceramics and artwork. The main square around the Duomo is particularly charming and a great spot for people watching.

Enjoy lunch in Ravello

After exploring the gardens, you’ll definitely want to grab lunch in Ravello since you’ve worked up an appetite. Cumpa Cosimo is a local favorite known for its authentic family atmosphere and traditional home cooking. It’s the kind of place where you’ll see the “mama” walking around in her apron, making sure everyone is happy. Other great options include Ristorante Vittoria and Villa Maria Restaurant for more upscale dining, or Il Flauto di Pan if you want incredible views with your meal. Most of these restaurants are located within walking distance of the main gardens, and lunch service typically runs from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM.

Optional: Visit Valle delle Ferriere, a rainforest-like oasis in the Amalfi Coast

If you have energy for one more adventure and want to experience something completely different from the coastal towns, consider hiking the Valle delle Ferriere (Valley of the Mills). This hidden gem is one of the most peaceful and unique experiences we had during our entire trip, and it’s a perfect way to escape the crowds on your final day.

Getting to the trailhead from Ravello involves about an hour of walking, but the route itself is quite scenic as you make your way through the countryside and small mountain villages. The entrance fee to the nature reserve is around €5 per person, so make sure to have some euros on hand, as they didn’t accept cards when we visited. The paid area is actually quite small, but it’s definitely worth the entry fee due to how incredibly unique the experience is.

What makes Valle delle Ferriere so special is its unique microclimate created by the valley’s position and the waterfalls that flow through it. The temperature here is noticeably cooler than the coastal areas, which feels incredibly refreshing after days of heat and sun!

We absolutely loved how quiet and serene it was here. After days of navigating crowds and tourist areas, Valle delle Ferriere felt like discovering a secret world!

For more info about Valle delle Ferriere, check out my blog posts that share everything you need to know about visiting!

End your last day back in Positano  

For your final evening, head back to Positano to soak in those iconic views one last time. There’s something special about ending your Amalfi Coast adventure where most people begin theirs. Take the SITA bus back in the late afternoon so that you can catch the golden hour light hitting those colorful cliffside houses.

Spend your last evening wandering the narrow streets you might have missed on day one, maybe picking up some final souvenirs like handmade sandals or local ceramics. For dinner, this is your chance to splurge on one of those terrace restaurants with the million-dollar views, if you haven’t already. Whether it’s a romantic dinner at La Sponda or a more casual meal at one of the cliffside cafes, watching the lights twinkle across the water as the sun sets is the perfect way to say goodbye to this incredible stretch of coastline. It’s a fitting end to five days of exploring one of Italy’s most beautiful regions!

Conclusion

This 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary gives you the perfect balance of iconic sights, hidden gems, and authentic Italian experiences. From Positano’s glamorous cliff-side views to Praiano’s peaceful atmosphere, across the dramatic fjord at Furore, throughout historic Amalfi, and up into Ravello’s stunning gardens, you’ll experience everything that makes this coastline so special! The key to making the most of your trip is planning by booking accommodations and restaurant reservations early, packing comfortable walking shoes for all those stairs, and most importantly, not trying to cram too much into each day. The Amalfi Coast is meant to be savored slowly, with plenty of time for long lunches, sunset watching, and soaking in some truly incredible views. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to experience one of Italy’s most beautiful regions, this itinerary will give you memories to last a lifetime!

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