This itinerary is designed to help you fully experience both the well-known highlights and hidden gems of the Amalfi Coast. It blends leisurely exploration with exciting adventures, and each day builds toward a deeper understanding of this unique region. Let’s dive into your ultimate Amalfi Coast journey!
Day 1: Arrival in Naples and Transfer to Amalfi
- Morning: Arrive at Naples International Airport. From the airport, either rent a car or take a private transfer to Amalfi (about 1.5 hours by car). If you prefer not to drive, public transportation options include taking the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento, followed by a SITA bus to Amalfi.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel in Amalfi and stroll through the historic town. Visit the Amalfi Cathedral(Duomo di Amalfi) with its striking Arab-Norman architecture and stunning mosaics.
- Evening: Have dinner at a seaside restaurant like Ristorante Marina Grande and enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Day 2: Discover Amalfi and the Valle delle Ferriere
- Morning: After breakfast, start the day with a visit to the Cloister of Paradise, an oasis of calm with its peaceful arcades. Next, explore the Museum of Paper (Museo della Carta) to learn about Amalfi’s rich history of handmade paper production.
- Afternoon: Set out on a hike through the lush Valle delle Ferriere. This trail takes you through waterfalls, rare ferns, and the ruins of old iron and paper mills, offering a unique and tranquil experience.
- Evening: Return to Amalfi and enjoy a relaxed dinner at Taverna Buonvicino, tucked away in a quiet piazza.
Day 3: Ravello – Villas and Views
- Morning: Take a short bus ride or drive up to Ravello, a stunning hilltop town known for its dramatic views and lush gardens. Start your visit at Villa Rufolo, famous for its beautiful terraced gardens that inspired Wagner’s opera.
- Afternoon: Wander through the serene gardens of Villa Cimbrone. Don’t miss the Terrace of Infinity, where breathtaking views of the coastline stretch far into the horizon.
- Evening: Stay for dinner in Ravello, enjoying a meal at Palazzo Avino’s Rossellinis, a Michelin-starred restaurant with panoramic views.
Day 4: Positano – Iconic Village by the Sea
- Morning: Travel to Positano, the famous cliffside village known for its pastel-colored houses cascading down toward the sea. Start with a stroll through the town’s narrow streets filled with boutiques, art galleries, and artisan shops.
- Afternoon: Relax on Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach, or take a short walk to the quieter Fornillo Beach. For lunch, try Chez Black, known for its seafood pasta and fantastic beachside location.
- Evening: Explore Positano by night. Dine at Ristorante La Sponda, a romantic restaurant with candlelit ambiance and stunning views over the coast.
Day 5: Hike the Path of the Gods
- Morning: Gear up for an unforgettable hike along the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei). Start in the village of Bomerano and follow the trail to Nocelle, passing through vineyards, ancient stone houses, and spectacular coastal views.
- Afternoon: After reaching Nocelle, take the stairs down to Positano. Reward yourself with a refreshing dip in the sea and relax at one of the beach bars.
- Evening: Stay in Positano for dinner or return to Amalfi. For a casual meal, try Da Vincenzo, a cozy restaurant known for its excellent local dishes.
Day 6: Explore Minori – Roman Ruins and Culinary Delights
- Morning: Head to the quieter town of Minori. Visit the well-preserved Villa Romana, an ancient Roman villa with intricate mosaics and frescoes. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of ancient Roman elites.
- Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the region’s culinary heritage with a cooking class. Learn how to make traditional dishes like fresh pasta and delizia al limone (lemon delight) from local chefs. Don’t forget to try some of the famous limoncello from the lemon groves that blanket the hills.
- Evening: Relax at a local trattoria in Minori. Ristorante Garum is a great choice for an authentic Italian dinner.
Day 7: Fiordo di Furore and Praiano
- Morning: Take a short drive to the Fiordo di Furore, a hidden fjord-like inlet with a tiny beach nestled between towering cliffs. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go for a swim or explore the area by kayak.
- Afternoon: Continue to the nearby town of Praiano for a quieter coastal experience. Visit Marina di Praia, a peaceful cove, or take a boat tour to explore hidden grottos and caves.
- Evening: Stay in Praiano for dinner and enjoy the slower pace of this charming town. Il Pirata is an excellent waterfront restaurant offering fresh seafood with a side of stunning views.
Day 8: Day Trip to Capri
- Morning: Catch a ferry from Amalfi or Positano to the island of Capri. Start your day with a visit to the Blue Grotto, where the sunlight reflecting off the water creates a magical blue glow inside the cave.
- Afternoon: Explore Anacapri and take the chairlift to the top of Monte Solaro for panoramic views of the island and coastline. Afterward, stroll through the Gardens of Augustus, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Faraglioni rock formations.
- Evening: Return to the Amalfi Coast and unwind with a casual dinner.
Day 9: Sorrento – Gateway to the Amalfi Coast
- Morning: Travel to Sorrento, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Spend the morning exploring the old town, visiting the Museo Correale and the Chiesa di San Francesco.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk along Marina Grande and stop for lunch at a seaside restaurant. Sorrento is known for its shopping, so take some time to browse the local shops for handcrafted goods and souvenirs.
- Evening: Dine at Ristorante L’Antica Trattoria, known for its refined take on traditional Sorrentine cuisine.
Day 10: Departure
- Morning: Depending on your departure time, spend your final morning enjoying a last walk along the coast or indulging in a leisurely breakfast. If you have extra time, consider visiting Pompeii or Herculaneum before heading to Naples for your flight home.
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