The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy, located in the south of the country. Known in Italian as Costiera Amalfitana, this stunning coastline is full of colorful towns, steep cliffs, and amazing views, just about 60 km from Naples. I’ve visited the Amalfi Coast twice—once in 2022 for a week and again in 2025 for a short 3-day trip with my bestie. Whether you stay for 3 days or 7, you’ll quickly fall in love with its charm and scenery. I personally think that 5 days are perfect to relax and enjoy the Amalfi Coast. In this Ultimate Travel Guide to the Amalfi Coast, I share my experiences and the perfect 5-day itinerary, including the best places to stay, eat, explore, and how to get around.

How to get to the amalfi Coast?

The easiest way to reach the Amalfi Coast is by flying into Naples International Airport (NAP). I’ve flown there twice from Europe using low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Wizzair, which offer plenty of connections to major European cities—including some smaller ones. For travelers from the United States, there are direct flights from Atlanta (ATL), Newark (EWR), New York (JFK), Philadelphia (PHL), and Chicago (ORD).

Once you arrive at Naples Airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to your final destination, depending on where you’re staying.

Travel Tip: Italy has excellent public transportation. If you’re staying in Sorrento, for example, you can easily take a modern, air-conditioned bus directly from Naples Airport. We paid just €13 for the ride from NAP to Sorrento (the link to book is above), and it was fast and comfortable.You can also get a train, but there is a connection on the main train station in Naples.

You can book a ferry here, and the airport shuttle from NAP to Sorrento here.

You can book a shared transfer from Naples Airport to Positano here

The train tickets can be purchased at the station.

Positano, the view from *44 Via Cristoforo Colombo*

Where to stay on the amalfi coast?

When deciding where to stay on the Amalfi Coast, it depends on the experience you want. Positano is perfect for luxury hotels and stunning views, while Amalfi offers a central location with plenty of restaurants and shops. I stayed in Sorrento twice, which is outside the Amalfi Coast but well-connected by public transportation and often more budget-friendly. There are plenty of low-key cafes and restaurants, many beautiful places to see and the sunset in Sorrento are truly a next level.

Some of my favorite hotels and airbnb’s in Sorrento:

HOTELS:

Grand Hotel La Favorita

Hotel Continental

Imperial Hotel Tramontano

BNB’S:

Le Tre CCC

A Suites

Accomodation in positano & Amalfi

My favorite hotels in Positano:

Villa Boheme Exclusive Luxury Suites

Le Sirenuse

Casa Cinque

My favorite hotels in Amalfi:

Hotel Residence

Hotel La Bussola

Anantara Conventi di Amalfi Grand Hotel

Getting around the Amalfi Coast

We used the SITA bus, the main public bus service connecting Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi. It’s a budget-friendly way to travel along the coast, with one-way tickets to Positano costing just €2.40. The best part is you don’t have to worry about driving on the narrow, winding roads or finding parking. However, during peak season—especially in August—be prepared for long lines and crowded buses, which can make the journey a bit stressful. If you want to avoid the hassle and travel more comfortably, consider booking a private transfer or taking a taxi instead (it’s obviously more expensive).

Here are some other options for the transportation:

SITA Bus

Cost: €2–€3 (one way)
Pros: Cheap, frequent, scenic views
Cons: Long lines, crowded in summer

Ferry

Cost: €10–€20 (one way)
Pros: Relaxing, great coastal views
Cons: Limited schedule, weather-dependent
You can book a boat trip from Sorrento to Positano and Amalfi here

Taxi

Cost: €60–€100+ (one way)
Pros: Comfortable, direct route, traffic
Cons: Expensive

Private/Shared Transfer

Cost: €80–€120+ (one way)
Pros: Stress-free, door-to-door service
Cons: Most expensive option

Perfect 5-Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Day 1- Positano

On the early morning of Day 1, make your way to Positano before the crowds arrive. Grab a coffee and wander through the charming streets, discovering local art along the way. By 11 a.m., head to the beach to sip a delicious cocktail and take a swim in the turquoise waters, all while soaking in the breathtaking views of Positano. Stay until golden hour to watch the sunset light up the cliffs—it’s such a vibe!

Highlights of Positano:

Coffee and snack at Angelo Cafe
Take pictures at the most iconic view point on the 44 Via Cristoforo Colombo
Admire the ceramics display near Hotel Le Sireneuse
Beach day at Spiaggia di Positano (we paid 90 euros for two sun beds and umbrellas, you can also book it online here)
Have Hugo spritz at Ocean Bar Positano
Eat lunch at Rada Beach Ristorante
Have a pistachio ice-cream and espresso at Bar Paradise Positano

Things to do in Positano:

TIP: You can also get to Positano by boat, the views are amazing from the ferry!

Book hotel in Positano here >>

The ceramics display near Hotel Le Sireneuse in Positano

Pistachio ice cream in Positano, at Positano Paradise Bar

Day 2 - Amalfi & ATRANI

Amalfi

On Day 2, head to Amalfi early in the morning. It’s about a 50-minute drive by bus or car, or a quick 20-minute ferry ride from Positano heading south. Amalfi is the heart of the Amalfi Coast and a very popular spot, so expect the crowds to start building around 9–10 a.m. We arrived at 10:30 am in August, and it was already packed. We took the SITA bus from Sorrento, which took almost two hours—next time, I’d definitely choose the ferry or even a private boat tour for a faster, more scenic trip.

The highlight of Amalfi is the Cathedral of St. Andrew the Apostle (Duomo di Sant’Andrea Apostolo), a stunning architectural masterpiece right in the main square. Nearby, you’ll find Saint Andrew’s Fountain (Fontana di Sant’Andrea), where you can admire the intricate details and refill your water bottle. Stroll through the charming streets lined with art and don’t miss trying the famous lemon sorbet served in an actual lemon—it’s around 10 euros and a classic Amalfi treat! I also recommend walking around the seaside promade in Amalfi and admire the colorful buildings and sea view.

Highlights of Amalfi:

Visit Cathedral of St. Andrew the Apostle
Grab the famous lemon sorbet served in an actual lemon
Walk along the Amalfi promenade
Walk from Amalfi to Atrani

Things to do in Amalfi:

TIP: From Amalfi, it’s a short walk to Atrani, which I recommend to take. We walked along the coast/road and it was such a scenic short hike!

Book hotel in Amalfi here >>

Saint Andrew’s Fountain and the cathedral in Amalfi

Lemon sorbet in Amalfi (it costed around 10 euros)

The view of Amalfi from the route to Atrani

ATRANI

After spending the morning in busy Amalfi, take a short walk—just about a mile—to the charming town of Atrani. The views along the way are absolutely stunning. Halfway there, we stopped at Ristorante Da Zaccaria, perched on the cliffside, and shared a big jar of house wine for only 12 euros (see photo above).

From there, we continued to Atrani’s center—a small yet picturesque village with cozy restaurants and bars perfect for lunch. We had lunch at La Risacca, where we shared caprese salad and lemon ravioli with swordfish. After exploring, we headed straight to my favorite beach, Spiaggia di Castiglione Cove, located just past Atrani along Amalfi Drive. There’s a small public section, but we chose to rent two sunbeds and an umbrella at Lido di Ravello Beach Club. We spent the rest of the afternoon soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear water until golden hour, before catching the bus back to Amalfi and then on to Sorrento.

Highlights of Atrani:

House wine in Ristorante Da Zaccaria
Exploring the main square
Beach day in Lido di Ravello Beach Club
Lunch at La Risseca (fish ravioli are a must try!)

Book hotel in Atrani here >>

Day 3 - RAVELLO

Spend a day in Ravello, a quiet hilltop town with amazing views. Visit Villa Cimbrone for its famous Terrace of Infinity, where the sea and sky seem to meet. Then explore Villa Rufolo, with beautiful gardens and stunning architecture right in the center of town. Take some time to wander Ravello’s charming streets and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before heading back in the afternoon.

Highlights of Ravello:

Visit Piazza Vescovado & the Duomo
Check out Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone with stunning views
Dinner at Trattoria Pizzeria Cumpa' Cosimo

TIP: Ravello is located in the mountains, I suggest taking a bus there or taxi from Amalfi. We took the SITA bus in Atrani.

Hotels in Ravello >>

Villa Cimbrone and the Terrace of Infinity

Day 4 - Sorrento

It’s finally time to explore Sorrento, our base for discovering the Amalfi Coast. Often overshadowed by Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, Sorrento is a charming town worth at least a full day.

Start your morning with an espresso and pistachio croissant at Il Giardino Mediterraneo—the perfect Italian breakfast. Then wander the narrow streets filled with lemon-themed shops selling everything from soaps to ceramics and limoncello.

The beaches in Sorrento are unique—no sand, just wooden platforms with sunbeds and umbrellas right over the water. Access isn’t free, but the views and relaxing vibe make it worth it. We paid 30 euros for two chairs and umbrella, it was the best deal we found. If you prefer a sandy beach, take a short train ride to Vico Equense, a quieter spot with softer shores. The sunbeds there are for like 50 euros for two people.

After some sun, enjoy lunch at Tasso Lounge Bar—I had the paccheri with the fish of the day, and it was the best pasta I’ve had in Italy! End your day with sunset at Piazza della Vittoria or Villa Comunale di Sorrento for breathtaking views over the coastline.

Highlights of Sorrento:

Morning coffee and breakfast at local cafe Il Giardino Mediterraneo
Wandering in the streets of Sorrento filled with lemon-themed shops
Lunch in Tasso Lounge Bar & Restaurant
Sunset watched from Villa Comunale di Sorrento

Things to do in Sorrento:

Book hotel in Sorrento here >>

Day 5 - CAPRI

Capri is a dreamy Italian island that feels like stepping into a postcard. Effortlessly blending natural beauty with luxury, it’s a must-visit on the Amalfi Coast. For a full experience, you can combine a one-day trip to Capri with a semi-private yacht excursion, including snorkeling and sunbathing.

I visited Capri from Sorrento on a one-day trip with a semi-private yacht—our group had about 8–10 people, and it cost around $130–140 per person. Whether you plan to stay on the island for a few days or just a quick day trip, you’ll fall in love with Capri’s charm. Located only 30–40 minutes by boat from Sorrento, it’s an absolutely unforgettable destination.

Capri one day boat tours:

TIP: I recommend booking a small group boat tour rather than a larger one—it creates a more intimate vibe and lets you fully enjoy the excursion. You might find cheaper options on bigger boats, but in my experience, the experience isn’t nearly as special.

Highlights of Capri:

Gardens of Augustus (Giardini di Augusto)
Beautiful terraced gardens with panoramic views of the Faraglioni rocks
Explore Piazza Umberto I (La Piazzetta)
The heart of Capri town, a small square full of cafés and luxury boutiques
Wander in Via Camerelle & Capri’s Boutiques
Famous shopping street with high-end fashion and local artisan stores
Mount Solaro
The highest point on the island, accessible by chairlift or hiking
Faraglioni Rock Formations
Three towering rock stacks just off the coast, perfect for photos and boat rides.
Marina Grande & Marina Piccola
Marina Grande is the main port, lively and bustling, while Marina Piccola offers a chic, quieter vibe with sunbathing spots and crystal-clear waters.

Hotels in Capri >>

Conclusion

The Amalfi Coast is a stunning blend of colorful towns, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views. From Sorrento to Ravello, every corner offers unforgettable experiences—whether it’s beaches, streets, or delicious Italian cuisine. Pack your camera, soak in the scenery, and let this magical coastline leave you inspired. I hope you enjoyed this Ultimate Travel Guide with a 5 day itinerary to the Amalfi Coast.

5 Days on the Amalfi Coast - The Ultimate Travel Guide

How to get to the amalfi Coast?