The Perfect One-Week Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Dreaming of cliffside villages, sparkling turquoise waters, and fresh seafood pasta with a view? The Amalfi Coast delivers all that and more. This One-Week Amalfi Coast itinerary will help you soak in the best of southern Italy’s iconic coastline—from bustling Sorrento to the peaceful charm of Ravello.

Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another round of limoncello, here’s your ultimate One-Week Itinerary for the Amalfi Coast.

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An Overview of the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a 50-kilometer stretch of dramatic coastline in Italy’s Campania region. Dotted with pastel-colored villages, lush terraced gardens, and coastal roads with heart-stopping views, it’s one of the most scenic drives (and destinations) in the world. The main towns include Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, Praiano, and Sorrento (a gateway city just west of the official Amalfi Coast).

Best Things to Do on the Amalfi Coast

• Explore Positano: Iconic cliffside village with chic boutiques and stunning beaches.
• Visit Amalfi & the Cathedral: A historic town with beautiful architecture and gelato on every corner.
• Ravello’s Gardens: Don’t miss Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone for panoramic views.
• Take a boat tour: Explore hidden coves and the island of Capri by sea.
• Hike the Path of the Gods: A scenic hike above the coastline offering dramatic vistas.
• Beach day in Atrani or Maiori: Quieter beaches and authentic local charm.
• Eat all the seafood pasta: Local specialties include scialatielli ai frutti di mare and delizia al limone.

How Much Time Do You Need?

While you can sample the Amalfi Coast in a few days, a full seven-day trip allows you to enjoy both the highlights and hidden gems at a relaxed pace. With a one-week Amalfi Coast Itinerary, you can split your time between Sorrento (or Naples) and the main coastal towns.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is late spring (May–early June) or early fall (September–October). These months offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and more availability in accommodations. July and August can be hot, crowded, and expensive.

How to Get There

• By Air: Fly into Naples International Airport (NAP).
• By Train: From Rome, high-speed trains reach Naples in 1–1.5 hours.
• From Naples to Sorrento: Take the Circumvesuviana train (~1 hour) or a private transfer.

How to Get Around

• Ferries (in season): The most scenic and often fastest way between towns.
• SITA buses: Budget-friendly but crowded; great for short trips.
• Private transfers/taxis: Best for comfort, especially with luggage.
• Scooter rentals: For the adventurous—traffic is intense, but it’s the most flexible option.
• Driving? Great for flexibility, but beware; The roads are narrow, parking is limited, and traffic is constant.

Where to Stay: Sorrento vs the Amalfi Coast

• Sorrento: Great base with easy transport links, more affordable, less “postcard Amalfi” but full of charm. Best for day trips (Capri, Pompeii, Naples).
• Positano or Amalfi: Iconic views, romantic, and immersive. Best for those wanting the full Amalfi Coast experience.

Tip: Start your week in Sorrento, then move to Positano or Amalfi for the rest of your stay.

What to Wear on the Amalfi Coast

For Women (Spring/Summer):

• Flowy dresses, linen sets, swimsuits with cover-ups
• Comfortable sandals, chic evening shoes
• Accessories: sunglasses, straw hat, beach bag, scarf

For Men:

• Linen shirts, tailored shorts, chinos
• Swim trunks, loafers or leather sandals
• Accessories: sunglasses, straw hat

Fall:
Add light jackets, sweaters, and closed-toe shoes.

Style Tips:
Think Mediterranean chic — light fabrics, soft colors, smart casual for evenings, and no gym wear.

One Week Amalfi Coast Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Arrive in Sorrento
• Day 2: Day Trip to Capri
• Day 3: Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius
• Day 4: Transfer to Positano (or Amalfi)
• Day 5: Amalfi & Ravello
• Day 6: Hike the Path of the Gods
• Day 7: Relax and departure

Day 1-3: Sorrento

Sorrento is a great main base for your trip along the Amalfi Coast, it’s the largest town and has the easiest modes of transport available with a big port for ferries and connection to trains. You can take an easy train one hour train here from Naples.

Where to stay in Sorrento:

We stayed at Hotel Grand Vesuvio which had a beautiful pool, gorgeous view of the water, large breakfast buffet and very convenient shuttle into the main town. I would recommend it for families and couples alike!

Best Area for First Time Visitors: Sorrento’s City Center:

Stay near Piazza Tasso, Sorrento’s bustling heart, to be close to shops, restaurants, and transport.

• Hotel Antiche Mura – Elegant and central, with a pool and charming lemon garden.
• Grand Hotel La Favorita – Luxury with sea views, a rooftop pool, and old-world decor.
• Palazzo Jannuzzi Relais – Modern B&B right on Piazza Tasso; perfect for walkers.

Best for Views & Romance: Cliffside / Marina Piccola:

Stay along the cliffs or near the port for stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

• Bellevue Syrene – Iconic 5-star hotel with history, elegance, and dramatic views.
• Maison La Minervetta – Boutique hotel with bold design, sea-view rooms, and a private staircase to the beach.
• Hotel Continental – A great mix of luxury, location, and coastal views.

Best for Peace & Local Charm: Sant’Agnello (1 stop from Sorrento):

Quieter and more residential, this area is great for families or anyone seeking tranquility.

• Hotel Mediterraneo Sorrento – Rooftop bar and pool with one of the best sunset views.
• Villa Crawford – Elegant villa with fewer crowds, ideal for couples or solo travelers.

Best Budget Options:

• Ulisse Deluxe Hostel – Clean, affordable, and centrally located. Great for budget travelers and families.
• Casa Dominova – Simple B&B near the cloister of San Francesco with cozy rooms and good value.

Day 1: Discover Sorrento Itself – Old Town, Sunset Views & Limoncello

Morning:

• Wander the Historic Center: Start your day in Piazza Tasso, then stroll through the cobbled lanes of the old town. Visit Via San Cesareo, a colorful street full of artisan shops, cafes, and lemon-scented products.
• Visit the Cloister of San Francesco: A peaceful oasis with stunning arches and gardens.
• Stop at the Cathedral of Sorrento (Duomo) with its intricate frescoes and historical charm.

Afternoon:

• Lunch with a View: Try Ristorante O’Parrucchiano La Favorita—a historic spot set in a magical lemon garden.
• Walk to Marina Grande: This quaint fishing harbor is less touristy and full of charm. Grab a gelato and watch the boats bobbing.
• Swim or Relax by the Beach: Choose a sunbed at a local beach club like Leonelli’s Beach or Marameo Beach.

Evening:

• Sunset Cocktails: Head to the Bar Terrazza Vittoria at the Grand Hotel Excelsior for incredible sunset views and a live piano.
• Dinner in Town: Enjoy seafood pasta or pizza at L’Antica Trattoria or Il Buco (Michelin-starred but relaxed).

Day 2: Day Trip to Capri – Glamour, Coves, and Cliffside Views

Morning:

• Catch a Ferry to Capri (20–30 minutes).
• Take a Boat Tour: Book a small-group tour around the island—this usually includes the Blue Grotto, Faraglioni rocks, and a swim stop in hidden coves. Tip: Go early to avoid the midday crowds at the Blue Grotto.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Capri Town: Try Ristorante Le Grottelle or Da Luigi ai Faraglioni for cliffside views.
• Explore Anacapri: Take the chairlift to Monte Solaro for jaw-dropping panoramic views.
• Stroll through the Gardens of Augustus and admire the Via Krupp winding down to the sea.

Evening:

• Return to Sorrento in time for dinner or grab a bite at Marina Piccola after disembarking.

Day 3: Pompeii & Wine or a Cooking Class Day

Option A: Historical & Active

Morning:

• Take the Circumvesuviana train (~30–40 min) to Pompeii. Spend 2–3 hours exploring the ruins—don’t miss the Villa of the Mysteries and the amphitheater.

Afternoon:

• Wine tasting on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius: Join a vineyard tour like Cantina del Vesuvio for a lunch and wine pairing experience with views of the volcano.
• Head back to Sorrento and unwind.

Option B: Food & Culture

• Join a Sorrento cooking class: Learn how to make traditional dishes like gnocchi alla sorrentina, fresh pasta, or tiramisù. Many classes include a market visit and wine.
• Afternoon stroll in Villa Comunale Park for peaceful gardens and coastal views.
• Limoncello tasting at a local distillery like Limonoro or I Giardini di Cataldo.

Evening (for either option):

• Cap off your trip with a farewell dinner and a view—Terrazza Bosquet (for fine dining) or Ristorante Bagni Delfino (right on the water).

Days 4-7: Explore Positano, Amalfi and Ravello

For the next step of your one week Amalfi Coast itinerary, take a ferry or a bus to Positano or Amalfi and then choose to base yourself somewhere in or between those two towns for the next 4 days.

We stayed in an area called Conca dei Marini which is about 10 minutes from Amalfi at a hotel called La Conca Azzurra which was one of the most incredible hotels I’ve ever stayed in! Unbeatable views of the sea, a hottub and private sun chairs with access to the sea. Having access to private sun chairs is huge since the beach clubs in Amalfi and Positano can be crowded and charge you up to 80 Euro a day for a sunbed so it really adds up! The only downside is that the hotel isn’t walking distance into town so you will need to rely on your own car, busses or taxis to get around, but I think it’s worth it for the privacy and beauty you get!

Where to Stay in Positano or Amalfi:

Where to Stay in Positano:

Positano is luxurious, romantic, and dramatic—with iconic vertical streets and colorful cliffside views. Most hotels come with views (and stairs).

Luxury

• Le Sirenuse – Iconic, 5-star, with world-famous views, spa, Michelin-starred dining.
• Il San Pietro di Positano – Secluded cliffside palace with private beach and boat access.
• Villa Franca – Chic design, rooftop pool, walkable location.

Mid-Range

• Hotel Marincanto – Great value for the view; infinity pool and good location near Spiaggia Grande.
• Hotel Villa Gabrisa – Family-run charm with terraces and personalized service.
• Poseidon Hotel – Boutique vibes, excellent restaurant, and killer terrace views.

Budget-Friendly (for Positano)

• Casa Teresa – Affordable B&B above town with breakfast and a homey feel.
• La Tavolozza Residence – Well-priced rooms with balconies overlooking the sea.
• Villa Palumbo – Simple, clean, and great value—if you don’t mind the uphill walk.

Where to Stay in Amalfi:

Amalfi is more historic and easier to navigate—flatter streets, better access to buses/ferries, and usually more affordable than Positano.

Luxury

• NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi – A former monastery turned 5-star hotel with epic views and infinity pool.
• Santa Caterina – Elegant, old-world luxury with private beach club and elevator to the sea.

Mid-Range

• Hotel Marina Riviera – Excellent service and breakfast terrace with a view.
• Hotel Luna Convento – Historic cloister-style hotel with sea views and a pool built into the rocks.

Budget-Friendly

• Hotel Fontana – Right on the main square, no frills but affordable and central.
• Hotel Il Nido – Basic but scenic, located slightly uphill with excellent views and breakfast.

Day 4: Transfer to Positano or Amalfi – Settle In & Explore

Morning:

• Travel to your Amalfi Coast base (Positano or Amalfi):
  • 🚕 Private Transfer: Easiest with luggage; scenic but pricey (€80–€130 from Sorrento).
  • 🚤 Ferry: A beautiful and relaxed option if traveling light (available April–October).
  • 🚌 Bus: Budget-friendly but can be slow and crowded in high season.

Early Afternoon:

• Check into your hotel or B&B. Most accommodations are built into cliffs—be ready for stairs!
• Grab a light lunch by the water. In Positano: Chez Black. In Amalfi: Da Gemma or Marina Grande.

Late Afternoon:

• Explore your town:
  • In Positano: Stroll Via dei Mulini, visit Santa Maria Assunta Church, and dip your toes at Spiaggia Grande.
  • In Amalfi: Tour the Duomo di Amalfi, wander medieval alleys, or walk over to Atrani, a charming hidden gem.

Evening:

• Watch the sunset from a beach bar or rooftop.
• Dinner:
  • Positano: Da Vincenzo (cozy, authentic), or Next2 (modern & romantic).
  • Amalfi: little hidden gem right out of the church square, Taverna degli Apostoli.

Day 5: Amalfi & Ravello – Culture, Gardens & Coastal CharmMorning:

• Start in Amalfi:
  • Visit the Cathedral, Cloister of Paradise, and Paper Museum.
  • Get a coffee or lemon granita in Piazza Duomo.

Late Morning:

• Take the bus or taxi to Ravello (~30 minutes uphill).
  • Bus: Leaves from Amalfi center (€1.50–€2).
  • Taxi: ~€30–€40 but easier and faster.

Midday & Afternoon in Ravello:

• Visit:
  • Villa Rufolo: Moorish-inspired architecture and lush gardens.
  • Villa Cimbrone: Don’t miss the Terrace of Infinity for dramatic cliff views.
• Lunch at Ristorante Vittoria, Belmond Caruso, or Villa Maria for scenic garden dining.

Late Afternoon:

• Return to Amalfi (or Positano, if that’s your base—taxi may be easiest).

Evening:

Relaxed dinner back in your town. Consider a seaside restaurant with seafood specialties and a glass of falanghina wine.

Day 6: Hike the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei)

Morning:

• Start early! Take a taxi or bus to Bomerano (starting point of the hike).
  • From Amalfi: 1 hr via Amalfi–Agerola bus or private taxi.
  • From Positano: You can also go via Amalfi or arrange direct transport to Bomerano.

The Hike:

• Bomerano → Nocelle (~6 km, 2–2.5 hours)
• Trail offers sweeping views over the coast and Capri on clear days.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate (some exposure and stairs at the end).
• Bring: water, sun protection, camera, and comfortable shoes.
• Bonus: Lots of cats to pet along the way!

After the Hike:

• Arrive in Nocelle, treat yourself to a beer or a snack at the little cart!
• Option 1: Walk down ~1,700 steps to Positano (~30–40 mins).
• Option 2: Take the local shuttle or taxi back down.

Afternoon:

• Reward yourself with a beach break at Arienzo Beach Club or Fornillo Beach.
• Light lunch by the sea.

Evening:

Dinner recommendation: La Tagliata (family-style, scenic, best post-hike meal) or La Sponda if you’re splurging.

Sunset drinks at Franco’s Bar (Positano) or a wine bar in Amalfi.

Day 7: Relax, Souvenirs, and Departure

Morning:

• Slow start—coffee and croissant at a seaside café.
• Quick dip at the beach if time allows.
• Grab some local souvenirs:
  • Limoncello, ceramics, handmade sandals, or Amalfi paper.
• If you’re departing late in the day, consider a short boat ride, spa treatment, or casual walk to a scenic lookout.
• Visit Grotta dello Smeraldo in the Conca dei Marini. Can visit by bus or boat tour.

Transfer Options:

• 🚌 Bus to Sorrento + onward transit (longer, budget-friendly).
• 🚖 Private transfer to Naples or Sorrento (~1.5–2 hrs).
• ⛴️ Ferry + train combo via Salerno or Sorrento.

That’s the end of your unforgettable One Week Amalfi Itinerary! Soak in all the sun and say goodbye to the trip of a lifetime!!

If you are in Italy for longer, check out my 3 week Italy Itinerary below!

3 Week Italy Itinerary