Amalfi Coast Itinerary: 5 Days

Whether you want to waltz through the character-packed cobblestone streets, bask in the vibrant buildings from the pebbled beaches, or indulge in classic Italian cuisine, the Amalfi Coast makes for a fascinating foray. Ditch the tourist traps and embark on an enthralling trip with this Amalfi Coast iIinerary for 5 Days.

Threaded with an idyllic interplay of seaside living and ample authenticity, Amalfi Coast is immersed with an inextricable inventory of possibilities…

Graze through the lemon-scented gardens, sniff the salty seaside breeze, lock lips with an appetite-quenching plate of pasta, and watch the glimmering ocean reflect onto the colourful mountain-perched homes.

Whether you want to create your very own masterpiece at a ceramics workshop, cook authentic cuisine with local families, learn how to make an authentic Aperol Spritz or bathe along the coast’s most preeminent points, this Italian hot spot hosts a wealth of opportunities.

Look no further if you’re after the Perfect Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 5 Days.

This top-notch travel guide includes all the must-see destinations, activities and advice and tried-and-tested tips and tricks to make your trip hassle-free.

Here’s what we cover in this guide:

• How to Spend 5 Days on Amalfi Coast

• More Things to do in Amalfi Coast

• Amalfi Coast Boat Tours

• Amalfi Coast Itineraries for 7, 10 and 14 Days

• What to Eat on the Amalfi Coast

• Best Time to Travel to Amalfi Coast

• How to Get to Amalfi Coast

• How to Get Around the Amalfi Coast

• Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast

• FAQs

• Why Visit Amalfi Coast?

Fringed with lemon-scented streets, salty crystal-clear waters and candy-coloured homes that seemingly stack on top of each other, these coastal cliffsides are crowned by culture and cuisine. Situated on the southwestern coast just a stone’s throw from Naples, this iconic part of Italy is nothing short of idyllic.

The Costiera Amalfitana is arrayed with many things to do, so you can choose to keep it action-packed or slow-paced. It’s all up to you! Having visited Italy five times and studied the language for nearly ten years, I’ve mustered up the knowledge and experience to help you take your Amalfi Coast trip to the next level. Plus, I’ve made a fair few errors so you don’t have to, too!

I’m a fanatic of la dolce vita and a self-proclaimed expert on all things Italy; from food and fashion to art and architecture, this country has me under its thumb. Italy is envigorating, enchanting and eccentric, all at the same time. And I couldn’t be more excited to share my pizza-pasta-loving passion with you. With this Amalfi Coast itinerary, you can pick out the highlights, enjoy top-rated activities, follow the route and squeeze in room for spontaneity.

Where is the Amalfi Coast?

Carved in the Campania region of Italy, the Amalfi Coast stretches the southwestern coastline along the Tyrrhenian Sea on the Gulf of Salerno. Located on the Sorrento Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast begins in Positano, ends in Vietri sul Mar and spans over 40 km (25 miles). Threaded with thirteen postcard-worthy villages, you’ll find everything from quaint vibes to personality-packed stays.

The Amalfi Coast towns include Positano, Praiano, Furore, Conca de’ Marini, Amalfi, Atrani, Ravello, Scala, Tramonti, Minori, Maiori, Cetara and Vietri sul Mare. Soak up the iconic ambience in Positano and Amalfi or bask in the authenticity of Vietri sul Mare and Tramonti.

Isn't it crazy to think that the Amalfitana road was built in the 1800s to replace old mule tracks between villages? But now those same tracks are famous hiking trails like the Path of the Gods, where you can get impressive coastal views. It's pretty cool how things change over time, huh?

How to Plan Your Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Before you can get into your Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 5 days, you’ll need to freshen up on the basics. If you want to plan a trip to Italy, you may wish to begin in Rome or another part of the country. No matter where you begin your trip in Italy, you’ll need to get to Naples (Napoli) to kick things off on your Amalfi Coast tour. 

From Naples, you can choose to begin in the west or the east. The westernmost area is Sorrento (not technically a town on the Amalfi Coast), while the easternmost is Vietri sul Mare. If you plan a trip to Italy and are coming from destinations like Bari, Monopoli or Sicily, it would be ideal to begin your Amalfi Coast trip at the eastern end.

Based on my experience travelling in Italy, I believe that the West (Positano, Sorrento & Praiano) offer an upscale Amalfi experience while the East (Vietri sul Mare & Cetara) offer a more authentic slice of coastal living. So whether you travel from Salerno to Sorrento or vice versa, the Costiera Amalfitana is adorned with picturesque towns all worth seeing.

So, is 5 days enough on the Amalfi Coast? Let’s find out!

Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Day 1 Amalfi & Atrani

Coined by colourfully stacked homes, parmesan-topped plates, teeming boutique stores and green-graced streets, Amalfi is truly a must-see for first-timers and seasoned travellers alike.

Kick off your Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 5 Days in the beating heart of the coastline and dabble in the delightful pursuits of the town before jumping down to nearby Atrani for an authentic afternoon. Close the day with a traditional cooking class and farmhouse visit, and delight your senses in Italian flavours.

Morning: Amalfi Cathedral & Town

Take the morning by storm as you prance around the prominent facades and winding streets, and don’t miss the main street, Ruga Nova Mercatorum. Pop into the Amalfi Cathedral, admire the Arabic-inspired courtyard and learn about the replete rich history.

If you’re up for a stair-fuelled hike, head to the Amalfi Cemetery for top-notch panoramic town views. If you want to get some more steps in, this Amalfi & Atrani Walking Tour is a stellar option.

Afternoon: Atrani

After stopping for a bite to eat, indulge in a lemon spritz by the seaside as you soak up the midday sunshine. Pinned for its picture-perfect vistas, Atrani offers a more authentic insight into Italian coastal living, and it’s well worth the visit.

Stroll for a short ten minutes from Amalfi’s centre and set up camp for an afternoon perched ashore between the soaring mountains and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

If you’re passionate about the ocean, dive deep on this Amalfi Coast Boat & Snorkelling Tour!

Evening: Cooking Class & Farmhouse Visit

Bring the first day of your Southern Italy Itinerary to a close by cooking up a storm, Italian style.

Get familiar with authentic flavours as you explore a terraced garden and learn various cooking techniques. Relish in the palatable plates of a 4-course meal paired perfectly with a wine or two.

This Amalfi cooking class is one for the books, especially if you want to incorporate these mouth-watering flavours back home.  

Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Day 2 Sorrento

Although it’s sitting on the Sorrentine Peninsula, Sorrento is a stellar destination that shouldn’t be overlooked. Backed by skyrocketing clifftops and a lively old town, this hot spot offers opportunities to set out to nearby Pompei and Capri.

The perfect Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 5 days poses plentiful pleasurable pursuits, and day two will surely leave you feeling fulfilled. Sip on a morning espresso in the heart of the town, embark on a boat tour to the Blue Grotto, and close up the afternoon on a history-packed trip to the ancient ruins of Pompei.

Morning: Capri Boat Tour

Stroll the city streets bright and early before setting sail from Sorrento. Head off on a Capri Boat Tour, and prepare to make memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Before dipping in the pristine waters, set your sights on highlights such as the Blue Grotto, White Grotto, and Faraglioni Rocks. Refuel with freshly-picked seasonal fruit and sparkling prosecco before returning to the Sorrento shoreline.

Afternoon: Pompei

After getting your fair share of sun, set out on a half-day trip to the ancient archaeological ruins of Pompei. Navigate the well-preserved panoply of thermal baths, markets and buildings and learn about life as it once was.

This Pompei Half-Day Tour from Sorrento is a must-see for any history fans, and it's a great way to mix up your Amalfi Coast 5-Day Itinerary. 

Evening: Sorrento Town  

After deepening the spirit of exploration, you’ll probably feel a bit tuckered out. Wind down from all the Capri and Pompei sightseeing with a food-fuelled night out on the town.

Whether you’re looking for a Pizza Making Course, a Pasta and Tiramisu Class, an Oil, Cheese and Limoncello Tour, or a simple dinner in a local trattoria, I’m sure you’ll find it here in Sorrento.

Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Day 3 Ravello & Furore

After a few action-packed adventures, this part of your 5 Days in Amalfi Coast Itinerary is for resting, refuelling and revelling in Ravello’s rapture. Replete with romance and character, this tiny town deserves a spot on the Amalfi Coast map.

Hit the heights as you wander through Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone and soak up the sun in the early afternoon in Furore. End your day eating your way through Ravello, and be sure not to miss a sweet dessert.

Morning: Villa Rufolo & Villa Cimbrone

Gaze over the vistas from godsend as you soak up the sheer beauty and grace of Villa Rufolo. Peak over Piazza Vescovado before popping over to Villa Cimbrone. Peruse the panoramic promontory and its contrasting contrasts against the crashing coastline below.

If you want to dive deeper, enjoy the street’s ambience on a Private Walking Tour of Ravello.

Afternoon/Evening: Ravello & Furore

Before the early afternoon hits, scale down the 200-something steps to the Amalfi Coast’s fjord, Furore. Enjoy the serenity of this lesser-known spot as you watch the day go by. After the morning sun passes behind the towering clifftops, go back to town for late lunch with some mouth-watering cuisine. After locking lips with a glass of Aperol Spritz, dabble the delightful town’s ambience before calling it a day.

Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Day 4 Positano

If you’re wondering how to ‘’do’’ the Amalfi Coast in 5 days, Positano should be a priority. Speckled with soaring scenery, vibrant buildings, decadent dining and high-priced sunbeds, this postcard-worthy town is an indispensable part of any First-Timer's Itinerary to the Amalfi Coast.

Kick off your fourth day navigating notorious Positano’s nearly vertical streets. Explore the rich tapestry of chic fashion, delectable food and thriving culture on offer before choosing between the iconic Spiaggia Grande or the more peaceful Fornillo Beach.

Morning: Positano Town

Wander astray from the crowds as you discover scintillating scenery at every angle. Linger among the labyrinth-like, mountain-hugging streets, and keep your eyes open for many picture-perfect landscapes.

Make your way down from the mountain tops and into Positano’s panoply of boutique stores, colourful terraces, chic trattorias and buzzing beach clubs.

Enjoy a meal in a restaurant, or pack a picnic and sit down in a green-graced corner.

Afternoon: Spiaggia Grande or Fornillo Beach

Coined as one of the most beautiful places on the Amalfi Coast, pick Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo Beach, as Positano’s two prominent beaches offer sublime sights but for different tastes.

For all things glitz and glamour and €100 sunbeds, aim for the striking Spiaggia Grande.

For a more budget-friendly option, topped by just as much bewildering beauty, follow the winding trail across to Fornillo Beach.

Evening: Positano Sunset Cruise

Any Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 5 Days should include a sunset cruise, and this top-notch tour is easily one for the books. At the close of a memorable day in pristine Positano, set sail on an Amalfi Coast Sunset Cruise.

Jump in for a quick dip in the crystal clear waters before quenching your appetite with a local dinner and cocktails. Feel the rhythm of the music pulsate through your body as you bask in the heat of the moment. Soak up the sunset views, feel refreshed by the ocean breeze and maybe even get a little tipsy at the open bar…

Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Day 5 Vietri Sul Mare & Salerno

In the wake of the last day of your Amalfi Coast Itinerary, you’ll experience the eclectic array of opportunities in Vietri Sul Mare and Salerno. Get a glance at authentic Italian living at a slower pace as you funnel down to ample authenticity. Start the ball rolling in Vietri Sul Mare, where you’ll marvel at the ceramics stores, boutiques and quaint town's dining scene.

Pop over to nearby Salerno, strut through the ancient streets and soak up the sparkling ambience. Wind up your 5 Days in Amalfi Coast Itinerary watching the flickering lights paint the mountain town golden, and say cheers over a glass of Italian prosecco.

Morning: Vietri Sul Mare

Begin your final day in a local’s favourite, Vietri Sul Mare. Stop for a speedy espresso shot as you overlook the roaring ocean before navigating the veritable vibrant ceramics shops. As you navigate the streets alongside other Italian travellers, enjoy the authenticity that blankets this quaint town.

Make your way down to the pier, and even stop at a sunbed to soak up some sun. Here you'll find much more affordable prices when compared to towns like Positano or Amalfi.

Afternoon/Evening: Salerno

Following a tranquil morning traversing Vietri Sul Mare, hop on a boat to sprightly Salerno. Discover the world of history-ridden monuments, local speciality stores and stunning scenery on this Salerno Walking Tour before sitting down for a carb-packed plate of Italian cuisine.

From this point onwards, you can spend the rest of your day dabbling in the town’s delights. Or, you could bask in one last beguiling adventure as you jump onto a Salerno Boat Tour with Drinks.

They said it couldn’t be done – an Amalfi Coast Itinerary in 5 Days, psh, impossible. If you were wondering how many days you need on Amalfi Coast, I’m sure you’ve seen that by now; it can certainly be done. And with ease.

Framed with plant-fringed heights, colourful edifices, glimmering beaches, flavour-packed cuisine and local craft stores, the Amalfi Coast makes for a getaway from godsend. This Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 5 Days is sprinkled with a surprising depth of pleasurable pursuits, so be sure to save it for your upcoming trip.

Things To Do In Amalfi Coast If You Have More Time

If you have an Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 7 days, 10 days or 14 days, there’s plenty more to see and do. You could opt to slow down this 5 day itinerary, you could sprinkle in some more activities, or, you could mix things up and stay at various hotels in Amalfi Coast. Here are some of the top things to do in Amalfi Coast:

Minori and Maiori

If you're considering extending your stay in the Amalfi Coast, Maiori and Minori are definitely worth a visit! Maiori is a character-packed medieval town sandwiched between Amalfi and Ravello. Straddling stunning beaches, an iconic tower and ancient Roman baths, there are a myriad of must-sees. Don’t miss Erchie Beach, Norman Tower and the 11th-century Saint Nicholas Castle.

Stroll along the Lemon Path (Sentiero dei Limoni) and pop over to Maiori's sister village, Minori. Follow the fragrant, lemon-lined path along the groves and quaint villages. Stretching for a scenic 2.5 km (1.2 miles), this short walk is one of the best things to do in Amalfi Coast.

Dating back to the Etruscan era, Minori is etched with an enchanting atmosphere and captivating coastal vistas. Pop into the 1st-century Roman palace, Villa Romana and admire the mosaic and mural artwork. This unnoticed seaside village is home to the majestic Villa Romana, a stunning 1st-century Roman palace. Then, spend the afternoon indulging in local Amalfi Coast food like ‘Ricotta and Pear Cake’ and ‘Delizie al Limone’. 

Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods)

If you want to visit Amalfi Coast, get active on the Path of the Gods! Locally known as ‘Il sentiero degli Dei’, this trek is with breathtaking panoramas all-round. There are two different options to choose from: the high and low versions of the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods). As you would imagine, both paths are named after the height at which the path is located.

The high path, starting in Bomerano (Agerola) and ending in Santa Maria del Castello, is a bit more challenging due to the uphill stretches. Conversely, the low path through Nocelle is less strenuous, making it ideal for older travellers or those who prefer an easier hike. The most popular trek begins in Bomerano (Agerola) and ends in Nocelle (Positano). The round trip is around 10 kilometres and takes approximately 7 hours depending on your pace and how many stops you make.

You can bask in the beauty from the panoramic terraces and admire sights like Capri, Punta Penna, Li Galli and the Monti Lattari. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Amalfi Coast during spring and autumn, the Path of the Gods is a top choice. Get your adrenaline pumping on this Path of the Gods Trek from Sorrento.

Ischia Island

If you’re travelling from Sorrento or Naples to Amalfi Coast, adding in a day trip to Ischia is a wonderful choice! Jump aboard a boat trip and discover the delightful thermal springs, glimmering beaches and gorgeous gardens. Don’t miss Negombo Park, Poseidon Gardens, Castiglione le Nitrodi, Castello Aragonese and the 220-metre-long Ischia Ponte.

Amalfi Coast Boat Tours

Discovering the Amalfi Coast by boat is one of the best ways to soak up the stunning views, stop at lesser-known towns and travel at your own pace. Whether you want to take part in a tour or rent a boat in Amalfi Coast, sailing the seas is a bucket list experience.

There is an exciting range of boat tours in Amalfi Coast, from peaceful sailing and thrilling speedboat rides to nearby islands and romantic sunset cruises. A boat trip immerses you in the beauty of the coastline, without all the hustle and bustle of land-locked traffic and transport. Whether you want to go diving in hidden coves, snorkel in less-visited towns or swim in the sparkling blue waters, a boat tour is the way to go!

Whether it's a tour from Sorrento, a full-day trip from Naples or an all-inclusive boat trip from Salerno, the options are endless. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Amalfi Coast, appreciate the beauty of the Amalfi Coast. If you're seeking something extra-special, a private cruise is the perfect way to spend the day. Although it may be more costly, you can take charge and choose exactly how to spend your time.

Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 7, 10 and 14 Days

Whether you want to stay put in one spot, trial two accommodations or mix up the myriad hotels in Amalfi Coast, there’s plenty to do! Extend your itinerary with these trip ideas:

Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 7 Days

• Day 1-2: Amalfi and Atrani

• Day 3: Sorrento & Capri

• Day 4: Furore & Ravello

• Day 5: Positano

• Day 6: Vietri sul Mare

• Day 7: Salerno

Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 10 Days

• Day 1-2: Amalfi and Atrani

• Day 3: Sorrento & Capri

• Day 4: Day Trip to Pompei, Herculaneum or Path of the Gods

• Day 5: Furore & Ravello

• Day 6-7: Positano

• Day 8: Minori and Maiori

• Day 9: Vietri sul Mare

• Day 10: Salerno

Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 14 Days

• Day 1-2: Amalfi and Atrani

• Day 3-4: Sorrento

• Day 5: Ischia Island

• Day 6: Capri

• Day 7: Day Trip to Pompei, Herculaneum or Path of the Gods

• Day 8: Furore & Ravello

• Day 9-10: Positano

• Day 11-12: Minori and Maiori

• Day 13: Vietri sul Mare

• Day 14: Salerno

What to Eat on the Amalfi Coast

There’s no doubt Italy is notorious for delectable cuisine, but with so many palatable plates on offer, it can be hard to know what not to miss.

If you're looking for the best foods to try on the Amalfi Coast, save this list of flavour-packed foods for later. Don’t miss these mouth-watering, tasty treats on the Amalfi Coast:

•        Scialatielli all’Amalfitana – locally-made pasta served with seafood, tomatoes and capers

•        Gnocchi alla Sorrentina – freshly-made gnocchi topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and fresh basil

•        Ndunderi – ricotta gnocchi served with a Bolognese-style sauce

•        Spaghetti alla Nerano – fine spaghetti with zucchini, extra-virgin olive oil, Provolone cheese and fresh basil

•        Pizza – no explanation needed…

•        Goat Cheese from Monti Lattari, Provolone del Monaco and Mozzarella di Bufala

•        Torta Caprese – a soft, sweet chocolate and almond-infused cake

•        Delizie al limone – lemon profiteroles served with Limoncello custard 

•        Limoncello – a classic Italian liquor made from locally-sourced lemons

Best Time to Travel to Amalfi Coast

So, is 5 days enough on the Amalfi Coast? By now, I’m sure you know the answer. This hot spot is steeped deep in pleasurable pursuits, many of which can be discovered in five days. This place will leave you in architectural awe year-round. But the one thing on every traveller’s mind is the Amalfi Coast weather.

Of course, the amount of days that you should be on the Amalfi Coast is entirely up to you, but if you want to frolic in amongst all the top opportunities, it’s best to visit in the warmer months. For beach weather, the best months to go to Amalfi Coast are June, July, August and September. While the winter offers dirt-cheap prices, it also means you’ll be dealing with a significant amount of wind and rain. Summer provides the best weather, but peak season brings peak crowds and prices.

The best months to visit the Amalfi Coast are spring, March to June, or autumn, September to November. During this time, you’ll enjoy the serene sight, pleasant weather and more affordable prices without battling through the crowds. If you’re wondering if you can swim in Amalfi in October, the short answer is yes. During autumn, the water is still warm with average highs of 22°C (72°F) and average lows of 16°C (61°F ). If you want to enjoy pleasant temperatures, the Amalfi Coast is not cold in October. Plus, top spots like Capri, Amalfi, Sorrento and Positano are less crowded in October. Score!

How to Get to Amalfi Coast

Whether you’ve been tasting Italy’s hyperactive gelato industry in Rome, bouncing on a gondola through the canals in Venice, diving deep into history in Florence, or getting into a food coma in Naples, this country is jam-packed with things to do.

Teeming with tantalising turquoise beaches, vibrant houses and delectable cuisine, the Amalfi Coast sure does live up to all the hype. Travel isn’t all glitz and glam, and getting to the Amalfi Coast isn’t too tricky. So, let’s figure out how to get to Amalfi Coast.

Amalfi Coast’s closest airport is the Naples International Airport, and you will most likely be flying here. You can ditch the haul of transport hassles by following one of these three options.

Taxi or private transfer

As the easiest and most convenient option, arriving takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The catch? The hefty price. If you’re a budget traveller this may not be the best option for you, but if you’re someone that prioritises time and comfort, this is an ideal choice. Taxi prices will fluctuate depending on the day and time, so you can avoid unwanted fees by booking directly with a private transfer to Amalfi Coast.

Bus and train

Taking around 1 hour and 25 minutes, this trip option offers quick transport and a budget-friendly price. If you’re game to navigate the streets of Naples and find your way to Naples Centrale Station, this option is fairly hassle-free. Just follow the crowds and book a train ticket on the Trenitalia.

Combined bus trip

Reaching Amalfi from Naples on a bus will take around 2 hours and 40 minutes, and will require a bus change from the Curreri bus to the SITA bus at Sorrento Train Station. It's more expensive than the previous option, and it's not necessarily convenient if you're travelling with lots of luggage or kids.

How to Get Around the Amalfi Coast

Picture this… You're cruising down the Amalfi Coast, the breeze blowing and the sun kissing your skin. Ah, yes. The romantic image of an Amalfi road trip. But what goes unseen in all those idyllic Italian daydreams is the traffic. And there’s a lot of it, not to mention the mind-boggling narrow streets that buses somehow seem to squeeze through too.

To ensure your Amalfi Coast itinerary 5 days goes as smoothly as possible, opt for a ferry or train over a bus or car. And if hiring your own vehicle is a must, there are a few things you should prepare for. So, if driving's on your bucket list, check out these tips to avoid having an old nonno yell ''che cazzo’’ at you.

By car

Coined for its sublime scenery, the Amalfi Coast makes for one hell of a drive. But if you’re not a fan of 500-foot-tall cliffs and deathly drops, driving a car is probably not the best option for you.

Topped by massive crowds and bumper-to-bumper traffic, I’d avoid renting a car on the Amalfi Coast.

If driving a car is a non-negotiable, make sure you set out early in the morning to avoid traffic. By getting organized, you'll have better luck with parking too. Be prepared for lots of honking – bus drivers do this to alert other drivers, and it means you should slow down when turning narrows curvy roads.

The Amalfi Drive, locally called strada statale 163 Amalfitana, is the main road that hugs the famous coastline.

In order to drive the Amalfi Coast, you should be prepared for a rough, 50 km-long route. Without stopping or traffic congestion (which is highly unlikely), it takes about two hours to drive the entire length of the Amalfi Coast.

Want to ditch the stress of driving on the Amalfi Coast? If you’ve just got off a long-haul flight, and your budget allows, hire a private transfer instead. 

By bus

If you’re a budget traveller, buses on the Amalfi make for a great money-saving option. You can get around the Amalfi Coast via the Sita buses. Running along two routes, Sorrento – Positano – Amalfi, and Amalfi – Salerno.

The major downside – just because you have a ticket, doesn't mean you'll have a seat. Buses get packed, and if you want to avoid missing out, you'll have to barge your way to the front of the line. Literally. My best advice is to travel as far outside of peak times as possible. Plus, you’ll have to endure the Amalfi Coast weather outside. Nasty!

By ferry

Set foot on a ferry if you want to ditch the hustle and bustle of navigating the streets. Catch the veritable views as you cruise along the coast, sip on espresso, and prepare for a day of exploring. There are high-speed ferries to Positano, Amalfi and Sorrento and ones out to nearby Capri and Ischia. If the Amalfi Coast weather is pleasant, boarding a ferry is one of the most panoramic transport options.

By train

This option doesn’t apply to all coastlines, as there are only train stations at Salerno, Sorrento and Vietri Sul Mare. If you’re staying at another destination on the Amalfi Coast, you can catch a bus or ferry from one of these destinations. When travelling during the shoulder seasons, catching a train or bus is a suitable choice. Although the ferry is scenic, it may not be the best option depending on the Amalfi Coast weather.

5 Days Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Where to Base Yourself

For this 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary, the best base depends on your travel style, budget and priorities. You could choose to base the first two nights in Sorrento or Amalfi and then three nights in Positano, Furore, Vietri sul Mare or Salerno. Either way, you can still follow this itinerary, or you can mix it up as you please. The SITA bus system and ferries are easy to navigate from these towns.

On my recent trip to the Amalfi Coast, I stayed in Vietri sul Mare for an entire week. From here, it was easy to catch ferries, buses and taxis to the top destinations. If you’re interested in a quieter stay, this is a top choice. 

Where To Stay on the Amalfi Coast

La Costa Amalfitana is thriving with 13 different coastal towns and stretches over 40km. Campania’s eclectic coastline offers a rich tapestry of accommodation options. If you’re looking for where to stay when visiting the Amalfi Coast, here are a few options you could consider:

Positano

Pinned as the Amalfi's kingpin, this hot spot is filled with plummeting clifftops, colourful buildings, and all the iconic Italian charm you see in the movies. There's no doubt Positano will take your breath away. Unless you can score an Airbnb ahead of time, this destination is going to be very expensive. But in saying that, Positano does offers some of the best hotels in Amalfi Coast.

Amalfi

Sitting on the more affordable end of the scale, Amalfi is just as stunning with steep drops and sublime scenery. It’s located in the middle stretch of the Amalfi Coast, serving as an ideal base to set out for day trips. If you’re wondering what’s the difference between Amalfi or Positano, the former is ideal for first-timers and seasoned travellers, whereas the latter is better suited to glam-seeking, high-end holidaymakers. Amalfi is arrayed with some of the top hotels in Amalfi Coast.

Vietri Sul Mare

You know it’s authentic when you can find Italians vacationing here. Situated towards the eastern end of the Amalfi Coast, Vietri Sul Mare is brimming with local restaurants, awe-worthy views, heaving hilltops and overall quaint village vibes. Sitting in the province of Salerno, this Campanian coastal getaway is crowned with ceramics and cafe-lined alleys.

Woven with authenticity and laid-back living, Vietri sul Mare is home to some of the best local hotels in Amalfi Coast. With pocket-friendly accommodations, Airbnbs and high-end hotels, this is one of the best lesser-known places to stay.

Sorrento

Although not technically part of the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is a stellar spot to stay in. Plus, it provides the perfect opportunity to jump to pizza-packed Naples or ancient Pompeii. facing the Bay of Naples on the Sorrentine Peninsula, Sorrento boasts bustling marinas, sweeping mountains and the iconic Piazza Tasso. From the cafe-lined squares to the 14th-century Chiesa di San Francesco, this spot is steeped deep in la dolce vita.

Sorrento has some of the best hotels in Amalfi Coast, with both budget-friendly and bougie accommodation options. If you’re looking for convenience and comfort, Sorrento is easy to access. From Naples to Amalfi Coast, you can reach Sorrento in 1 hour by car, 1.5 hours by bus and train or 50 minutes by ferry. The Campania Express Train is the best way to get there, but there are limited services per day.

Praiano

Steeped in authenticity and picturesque panoramas aplenty, Praiano is the place to be for serenity-seekers if you want to ditch the hordes of tourists and soak in all the old-school vibes. Praiano is a charming town perched on the rocky cliffs of Italy’s famous Amalfi Coast.

Many visitors go to the small beaches along the coast to enjoy the sunshine while taking in the breathtaking scenery of steep cliffs and shimmering ocean. Praiano boasts some of the top hotels in Amalfi Coast, especially if you want stunning views and a relaxed ambience.

Other Places to Stay on the Amalfi Coast…

Damn, there’s more where that came from! If you’re still on the hunt for the best places to stay in Amalfi Coast, you’re in luck! From seafood-fuelled Cetara and green-graced Ravello to history-rich Maiori and Minori, the accommodation options are seemingly endless…

So, whether you choose to cool off in picture-perfect Atrani or frolic around in lesser-known Furore, you’ll be stumped for choices. When booking Airbnb, hostels and hotels in Amalfi Coast, be sure to book in advance so you don’t miss out. If you’re a backpacker, or if you’re just simply looking for ways to save cash so you can splurge on gelato, don’t miss this post on How to Budget for a Big Trip.

FAQS

Is 5 days enough on the Amalfi Coast?

5 days is ideal to time explore the big towns and smaller villages. Whether it’s ancient ruins, lemon-lined hilltops or blissful beaches that get your attention, you can add some day trips too.

How many days do you need to spend in Amalfi Coast?

The short answer is 2 days. But, if you want to go beyond the tourist traps, 5 days is ideal for discovering the more authentic side.

Is a week too long on the Amalfi Coast?

A week is the ideal time to take in the Amalfi Coast’s full splendour. 7 days offer plenty of time for rest and relaxation, as well as day trips to top-rated destinations.

How many days should you spend in Positano and Capri?

At least 2 to 3 nights are ideal in either Capri or Positano. One day is enough to explore the historic centre and the other two allows the freedom for you to decide.

Why Visit Amalfi Coast?

Painted by colourful coastal towns that hug serrated clifftops, palatable plates that pair perfectly with local liqueur, and glimmering beaches that wash atop pebble-packed beaches, this landscape makes for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.  

Whether you want to step into ancient alleyways, try out a ceramics class, cook up a storm with a local family or simply soak up all the alluring ambience, the Amalfi Coast lives up to the hype. Take your travels to the next level with this Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 5 days!