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Best Amalfi Coast Itinerary For Your Next Trip To Italy - Insider's Edit
- Giada Jannotti
- Apr 14
- 6 min read
Updated: May 11
The Amalfi Coast has that kind of cinematic beauty that doesn’t just stay in your memory: it ends up on the big screen. If parts of it feel strangely familiar, it’s probably because you’ve seen them in movies like The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999), where Matt Damon and Jude Law cruised through Positano’s shimmering waters.
But the Amalfi Coast isn’t just a backdrop, it’s a place that feels like a movie while you’re in it. This itinerary isn’t about just snapping the same shots everyone else takes. It’s about stepping into your own film, sipping wine in a vineyard clinging to a cliff, finding a secret cove where the water glows turquoise, wandering through the painted alleyways of Furore, or watching the sun dip behind Capri from a lighthouse where locals gather with a bottle of prosecco.
As Italians, here are a few insider tips for you to enjoy when next visiting the Amalfi Coast. Trust us, it’s the kind of trip that stays with you, long after the credits roll!
A 10-Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary
DAY ONE: POSITANO
Positano is one of those places that doesn’t just look good in photos; it actually feels even better in person. The way the town spills down the cliffs, the smell of salt and lemon trees in the air, the first dip into the clear, cool water after a sweaty hike down from Nocelle. Mornings here are best spent with a cornetto and espresso at a quiet café before the day-trippers arrive, and evenings are pure magic—boats bobbing in the bay, golden light hitting the pastel buildings just right, and a glass of wine in hand as the town slowly winds down. It’s busy, it’s beautiful, and somehow, if you do it right, it still feels like your own little secret.
Beaches in Positano
Skip the main beaches, and instead of the crowded Spiaggia Grande, take Il Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) descent from Nocelle down to Arienzo Beach. It’s less touristy, and Arienzo has some of the clearest waters on the coast.
The Best Sunset Spot in Positano
Forget overpriced rooftop bars (unless you're really into them) and head to Fornillo Beach. The vibe here is relaxed, and do what Italians do better, enjoy an aperitivo! The cliffs glow at sunset.
Panoramic Dinner in Positano
Are you looking for something really special? Take a boat to Da Adolfo in Laurito Bay. No menu will greet you, just the freshest catch of the day, grilled with lemon. It really doesn't get better than that!
DAY TWO: FURORE (day trip)
When visiting Positano, your next must-see destination has to be Furore with its panoramic archway. Take a swim and enjoy a unique view of the Amalfi Coast. Just an hour away from Positano if you take the bus - definitely worth it!
DAY THREE: CAPRI
Capri is... Capri! Its uniqueness and beauty cannot be compared to anything else in the world, and this is what makes it truly one-of-a-kind. As soon as you arrive at the main port, you are greeted with the noise of a busy yet welcoming island. Fresh fish stands, bars and souvenir shops catch your attention while your eyes focus on the beauty of it all. Nothing but love at first sight.
You will need more than two days to visit this beautiful island but for your one week in the Amalfi Coast, two full days is the minimum requirement (just make sure you arrive early!) - but to explore the island you might want to consider three days.
Rent a boat and visit the Grotta dell'Amore (if the Grotta Azzurra is too busy). Pass through the Faraglioni (iconic symbols of Capri) or enjoy an unforgettable lunch at La Canzone Del Mare - a unique bathing establishment where many actors and VIPs went during the 60s - La Dolce Vita. Take a swim in the sea or their saltwater pool, then have lunch on their open-air terrace with the best seafood platters!
Visit Villa Jovis and enjoy the best pizza before reaching the famous Piazzetta - Da Giorgio restaurant.
What many travelers forget is Anacapri, the other side of the island, which is just as magical (and has the best sunset views). You can get there by taking a taxi or a bus, exploring the narrow streets of Anacapri and the unique shops. Then, head over to Hotel Caesar Augustus for your perfect sunset backdrop!
TIP: Remember to book your aperitivo time as it gets very busy.
From here you will see the Vesuvius, Naples, and the sun dipping into the water like never before.
DAY SIX: RAVELLO
From Capri you have a direct ferry that arrives in Amalfi port, then you take the bus or a taxi to get to Ravello. We chose Ravello because it is near Amalfi but you will save some money and see two towns in one go! Ravello is located right above Amalfi, so you get the best of both: an amazing view and still be 30 minutes (by bus) away from Amalfi - or 50 minutes if you like to go for a panoramic walk to make your way down.
In Ravello, you can visit Villa Cimbrione, now a hotel with its beautiful gardens open to the public. Here you have the best breathtaking views, which creates the perfect spot to take lots of pictures.
Here is a list of things to see in Amalfi:
The historical town center
The Cripta di Sant’Andrea e il dono della Manna - the Duomo crypt hosts beautiful affreschi on the walls and ceilings
The Paper Museum
La Grotta dello Smeraldo (the Emerald Grotto)
Valle dei Mulini (just 15 mins away from Amalfi center, this relaxing walk will take you in the heart of nature with lemon trees, small waterfalls, and abandoned mills
The port and nearby beaches
DAY NINE: PAESTUM
In this unique archeological site you will find ancient and well-preserved artifacts from the Greek city of Poseidonia, which later became Paestum. The ruins are about 2500 years old and they date back to the 6th and 5th centuries BC.
The site is divided into six main attractions: two Temples of Hera, the Temple of Athena, the Roman Forum, the Amphitheater, and the Archaeological Museum.
Visiting Paestum will take about two hours but it is advised to take a few breaks along the way, especially in the hotter months of the year.
Stay ahead and get your tickets to visit Paestum:
Things to know before visiting the Amalfi Coast
What is the best route to visit the Amalfi Coast?
Route 163, also known as the Amalfitana Road, is one of the most scenic roads in the world as the views are incredible - every turn is a snapshot. Be careful though, this 50km road has just one lane per direction so keep that in mind, and don't get distracted!
Is it easy to find parking?
Many towns in the Amalfi Coast like Positano and Amalfi itself don't have many parking spots. The towns are built vertically and the streets are very narrow - also, residents park their cars too so it gets even more difficult. However, don't worry, there are public and private parking garages available (but be prepared to pay up to €10/hour). You might also want to consider a Taxi to get as close as possible to the center.
Will I be walking a lot on the Amalfi Coast?
Yes, you definitely will! If you are planning to visit the Amalfi Coast for the first time, ensure you know what you signed up for: amazing views, dreamy cuisines, and long walks! It is, in fact, a great place for hiking lovers - every trail has stunning views along the way.
What should I pack if I'm visiting the Amalfi Coast?
We know that a holiday on the Amalfi Coast calls for chic clothing (and some might be tempted to bring along heels) but beware, the most important piece in your suitcase is shoes! Choose comfortable walking shoes, especially during the day as you explore the various paths that lead to panoramic views. Also, the weather gets really warm in the summer so bring lots of suncream and a hat (plus, stay hydrated!). In the evening, a light jacket is suggested as it might get a little windy.
What are other nearby towns to visit on the Amalfi Coast?
Other than the obvious, Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, the Amalfi Coast offers several smaller towns, just as beautiful and unique. Try visiting Vietri sul Mare or Scala, the older town on the Amalfi Coast, surrounded by the natural reserve of Valle delle Ferriere.
