The Amalfi Coast: The Ultimate Five Day Itinerary + Travel Guide
The Amalfi Coast is a dream destination, offering breathtaking views, charming coastal towns, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you are exploring historic sites, relaxing on scenic beaches, or indulging in authentic Italian cuisine, this guide will help you plan the perfect five-day itinerary for an unforgettable trip to The Amalfi Coast.
Tips for Visiting The Amalfi Coast:
Day 1: Arrive in Positano and Explore the Town
Start your journey in Positano, one of the most iconic towns on the Amalfi Coast. Walk through the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the colorful cliffside houses. Positano is arguably the most picturesque town in The Amalfi Coast… if you plan on visiting, we recommend making Positano your “home base”, and taking day trips to the other villages in the region.
Check out our post, Where To Stay in Positano for our recommendations for Positano accommodations.
During your time in Positano, we recommend visiting Spiaggia Grande, the main beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. For a quieter experience, visit Fornillo Beach, a less crowded but equally beautiful spot. To get to Fornillo Beach from Spiaggia Grande, just head west and walk the Via Positanesi d’America until you hit Fornillo Beach. This route is approximately a 10-15 minute walk.
Other things to do in Positano: For a cultural experience, visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, famous for its majolica-tiled dome and Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary. Art lovers can explore local galleries featuring Mediterranean coastal art.
In the evening, we recommend having dinner at Rada Beach Restaurant, which is located on Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach. You can dine either on the beach level, or on the rooftop terrace with stunning views of the coastline. Be sure to make reservations in advance on their website, and double-check to book your table at your preferred location. On their website, Rada Beach is the casual beach-side trattoria version of the restaurant, and Rada Ristorante is the fine-dining version, located on the terrace.
Rada Beach & Ristorante; Località Grotte dell’Incanto, 51, 84017, Positano SA, Italy

Day 2: Discover Amalfi and Atrani
Take a scenic ferry ride or boat tour along the Amalfi Coast to the historic town of Amalfi. Visit the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi), a stunning medieval church with Arab-Norman architecture. The Cloister of Paradise next door showcases fascinating mosaics and historic artifacts Built in the 13th century, the cloister is a stunning example of medieval architecture, featuring elegant columns and rounded arches.
Stroll through the town’s piazzas and explore local artisanal shops selling handmade ceramics and limoncello. Just a short walk away is Atrani, a charming and less crowded village with beautiful seaside views and quaint streets. Here, you can enjoy a relaxed afternoon at a café, indulging in espresso and sfogliatella pastries.
For adventure seekers, a scenic coastal hike from Amalfi to Ravello is an option, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline.
Day 3: Ravello’s Scenic Beauty and Culture
Head to Ravello, a town known for its breathtaking panoramic views and rich cultural heritage. Visit Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, both offering stunning gardens and terraces overlooking the coastline.
If you’re visiting in the summer, check out the Ravello Festival, a renowned music and arts festival featuring performances in the stunning cliffside setting. For those interested in history, a visit to the Ravello Cathedral (Duomo di Ravello) provides insight into the town’s medieval past.
Enjoy lunch at a family-run trattoria and sample traditional Tuscan dishes with fresh local ingredients. Take a leisurely walk through vineyards and lemon groves, or book a wine tasting tour at a local vineyard.
Day 4: A Day at the Beach and a Boat Tour
Spend the day relaxing at one of the best beach clubs on the Amalfi Coast, such as Arienzo Beach Club or La Scogliera. Enjoy a private boat tour along the coastline, stopping at the famous Emerald Grotto to see its glowing green waters. If you prefer a more independent experience, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the stunning coastline on your own.
Cap the night off with a dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring a seafood pasta dish with locally sourced ingredients. If you’re dining in Positano, we highly recommend Chez Black (if you’re looking for a casual pizza night) or Al Palazzo, for a romantic dinner under the lemon groves.
Day 5: Explore Sorrento and Capri
End your trip with a visit to Sorrento, a gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Walk along Corso Italia, a lively street filled with boutique shops and gelato stands. From Sorrento, take a ferry or boat tour to Capri, famous for its luxury villas and the Blue Grotto. This famous sea cave is one of the most iconic sites to see near the Amalfi Coast, and it’s very much worth making the short boat ride there. From Sorrento to Capri, the boat ride is just a little over thirty minutes.
If you plan to spend some extra time in Capri, take a scenic chairlift ride up Monte Solaro for a panoramic view of the island, then unwind at Marina Piccola Beach. Explore the Gardens of Augustus, a beautifully manicured garden with breathtaking coastal views. Before heading back, sip on a refreshing limoncello spritz at a café overlooking the Marina Grande.
By following this five-day itinerary, you’ll experience the best of the Amalfi Coast’s historic charm, scenic landscapes, and delicious cuisine. If you like this post, please save and share it so that you can reference it later. Cheers!
Quick Links:
The Best Boat Tours in The Amalfi Coast, Ischia and Capri