Among Southern Europe’s most stunning coastlines, Italy’s Amalfi Coast evokes visions of deep blue meeting lemon-covered hills and villages hanging on for dear life. And though the region gets more than its fair share of tourists, the Amalfi Coast retains a glamorous allure that is simply too hard to resist. Add to the mix one of Italy’s most interesting and affordable cities, and you have yourself a recipe for a memorable holiday. Planning a week on the coast? Here’s a seven day Naples and the Amalfi Coast itinerary to spark your romantic getaway.
About this Guide
This week in Naples and Amalfi Coast itinerary is based on my own travels and extensive research. I visited the region during the start of June on a couple’s trip and our preference was for active days filled with sightseeing, hiking, lots of walking and great food. We focused less on beach bumming though we did visit a few of those as well.
What’s Included in this 7 Days in Naples and Amalfi Coast Itinerary?
Four sections make up this Amalfi Coast travel guide:
- Two Days in Naples, Vesuvius Volcano & Pompeii [Current Page]
- Two Days in Amalfi, Ravello & Positano [Skip to Page]
- One Day in Capri [Skip to Page]
- Two Days in the Sorrento Peninsula [Skip to Page]
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7 Days in Naples and the Amalfi Coast Map
This map contains all the places mentioned in this sample itinerary. Click on the image to open in Google Maps.
Naples & Amalfi Coast Travel Tips
In this 7 Days in Naples and the Amalfi Coast itinerary, I’ll share with you specific travel tips in each section. However, I highly recommend going through this companion article highlighting general travel tips for the region.
Part 1: Two Days in Naples, Vesuvius & Pompeii
Our 7 days in the Amalfi Coast begins in Naples, Italy’s third largest city. Naples suffers from a bad reputation and many tourists do their utmost to spend as little time here as possible. Sure, it might not be the cleanest city in the world, its dilapidated buildings might be in need of a touchup, and some of its Camorra-controlled sections are certainly a no-go zone for tourists. However, Naples has so much charm to it that it would a shame not to spend a little bit of time in one of Italy’s most historic cities. Following a quick visit, we’ll hit the road and climb the Vesuvius Volcano, before exploring its “victim” – the ruined ancient city of Pompeii.
Naples Travel Tips:
For general travel tips for the Amalfi Coast, visit this article.
Is Naples worth visiting? If you’re a history lover, fancy some shopping and want to experience life in a vibrant (and quite authentic) Italian city – a short visit to Naples is recommended. If your Amalfi Coast vacation is already super short on time, then squeezing a Naples visit is not an absolute must. - How long do you need in Naples? If you have an early morning flight, consider spending the last night in Naples to shorten driving distances. Otherwise, one full day in Naples is adequate and another half day would allow you to visit all of its major sites.
- The Naples airport experience: arrival in Naples airport is not the best experience in the world so brace yourself and plan for extra time. This means that tasks such as passport control, checking in to your flight, returning (or picking up) your rented vehicle etc. – all might take a little longer than expected.
- Renting a car from Naples airport or from the city? If you’ll be spending a full day exploring the Naples historic center on foot and only on the following day heading out to the coast, it might be wise to taxi from the airport and to rent a car the following day from a city location That way, you’ll avoid the car-hire queues at the airport, finding a parking garage near your hotel, and paying for it!
- Parking in Naples: parking garages in Naples will cost around 20-30€ for 12 hours, depending on the size of your vehicle, and you will need to leave your car keys behind. I recommend inquiring with your hosts regarding the nearest garage, charting that on the map and navigating straight there.
Getting around Naples: central Naples is best explored on foot so be sure to pack comfortable shoes. The city does have an underground system and buses if you do want to cover larger distances. Download the Moovit public transportation app and get around the city like a local!- Pizza dinners in Naples: I’ll later list some of the best places in Naples for pizza but the tip here is that, unless you’re going local, it’s wise to book in advance where possible. Ask your local hosts if you need help.
- Staying safe in Naples: we did not encounter any dangers during our visit to Naples, apart from the crazy scooter drivers. In fact, the only time we felt a bit “scared” was when trusting our Jeep Compass to a local garage which totally had the appearance of a money laundering scheme (but it absolutely worked out). My recommendation is to stick to the historic center, the major downtown avenues, and the tourist sites. The rules of thumb are to always secure your belongings (the ones in your room and the ones you carry on you) as well as asking your hosts for tips on the matter before heading out.
Where To Stay In Naples?
Sleeping smack in the historic center – the Centro Storico – will be challenging so opting for something “in the perimeter” is recommended.
We spent a night at A Cassa di Mamma, a charming bed breakfast located about 15 minutes by foot from the historic center. From the moment we met our hosts – Marina and her son – we knew we made the right choice. Speaking excellent English and doing everything possible to make your Naples visit a memorable one, this accommodation is perfect for both couples and families who seek interaction with locals.
A Cassa di Mamma is situated in one of those “classic” Naples apartments, one with an antiquated feel, an elevator which might not be working, and windows overlooking the busy street traffic (you’ll sleep like a baby so not to worry). Rooms are quite large and air-conditioned, the shower works just fine, and a typical breakfast is offered with a never-ending flow of coffee. Another advantage to A Cassa di Mamma is its close proximity to a parking garage where the owners know Marina, something which provided us with extra confidence of trusting our car (and keys) in the hands of strangers.
Click here for all Naples accommodations which you can book online!
Day 1: Naples
After checking into our bed & breakfast, we geared up for nearly a full day of exploring the city on foot, from the grid-like streets of the Centro Storico down to the marina via the downtown boulevards. We ended the day after walking 15 km’s, well deserving our evening pizzas.
Via Port’Alba
En route to the official gateway to the historic center of Naples, we walked through the Via Port’Alba. Entrance to this tiny street is via a stone gate and the highlight here are the books… there are lots of them. Via Port’Alba is known as “the library street”, with a handful of antique bookshops lining both sides and a few stalls taking up space in the middle. Some shops also double as cafes and bars.
Piazza Bellini
This is the de facto entrance to the Centro Storico and its two major streets: Via dei Tribunali and Via San Biagio dei Librai. Piazza Bellini is quite small and offers some seclusion from the hustle and bustle of the city. You’ll find here a few cafes and some Roman ruins. Parallel to Piazza Bellini lies a large municipal square – Piazza Dante – but there isn’t much happening here apart from the odd evening musical performance.
Piazza San Domenico Maggiore
Approached from Via dei Tribunali, the Piazza San Domenico Maggiore can hardly be missed, mainly thanks to the large obelisk taking up center stage. The obelisk was erected in the mid 17th century to celebrate the city’s deliverance from a terrible plague.
Not to be missed is the Scaturchio chocolate and pastry shop, one of the city’s most famous. You can order at the counter or sit outside but whatever you do, try the ministeriali – essentially a slice of hard chocolate injected with rum-flavored cream. We also ordered a “side” of delicious cannolis and washed everything down with shots of espresso.
Last but not least, visit the church which this piazza is named after. The San Domenico church was a surprising and awe-inspiring visit. It looks nothing fancy from the outside but once you step inside, it’s a totally different ball game. Originally dating back to the 13th century, the church’s incredible colors and magnificent ceiling are not to be missed.
Via dei Tribunali
This is the “major” street of the historic center, a narrow thoroughfare where pedestrians, cars and scooters must share the scarce real estate. This is the Naples you’ve imagined: narrow, hardly any sunlight making it through the tall crumbling buildings, narrow alleys criss-crossing from either side and lots of action. We’ll come back later to this area for dinner but if you’re after some lunch, there are plenty of options around.
Museo Cappella Sansevero
We meandered along on foot until finally pinpointing the Sansevero Museum. Though you do have to pay a small entrance fee of approx 5€ (discounts for under 24s and seniors) and you absolutely cannot take photos inside, it’s well worth the visit. Dating back to the late 16th century, the museum is blessed with the most exquisite interior in Naples.
The museum’s centerpiece is the world-famous marble statue of Jesus. The statue was carved from a single piece of marble and the incredible level of detail is something that you must see with your own eyes. Lining the perimeter are other marble statues and tombs, while the chapel’s ceiling is, once again, something out of this world. The person responsible for this incredible collection was also a local alchemist and some of his chilling work is displayed in the basement.
The Duomo
Free to enter, there’s no excuse for not visiting the prime cathedral of Naples, though be warned – you must have your shoulders covered! Built in the 18th century, the cathedral is dedicated to the patron saint of Naples and the man responsible for the city’s greatest mystery – San Gennaro. The martyred saint was killed in the year 305 and when his body was later transferred to the cathedral, what was left of his dried blood liquified in the hands of the bishop. The miracle of San Gennaro is celebrated each year during the month of May and certainly a topic worth further exploring if you want to learn more about the superstitious side of Naples.
Piazza San Gaetano
On the way back from the Duomo on Via dei Tribunali, we climbed the steps of this church for a unique vantage point over the historic center’s major street. From up here, we glanced for a while at the mix of tourists walking by and locals going about their daily chores.
Via San Gregorio Armeno
Right after Piazza San Gaetano, we turned on Via San Gregorio Armeno before exiting the historic center through the less exciting Via San Biagio dei Librai. Via San Gregorio Armeno is one of the prettiest streets in Naples and famous for shops selling Christmas decorations throughout the year.
If you still fancy getting blown away by the over-the-top interior of classic European churches, step inside the Gesù Nuovo church whose exterior facade can’t be missed.
Via Toledo
Via Toledo is the central avenue in Naples, the city’s main artery and a pleasant way to go from the historic center to the sea. As you make your way down, there are several worthwhile stops and you’ll need to spare extra time for the dozens of shops lining both sides of the avenue. Also worth noting are the small alleys rising from the avenue’s western side. These make up part of the grid of the Spagnoli Quarter. It makes for a pleasant walk which, without stops, would only take about 20-30 minutes.
One of the landmarks along the way is the Galleria Umberto I, an impressive shopping arcade topped with a glass ceiling. In recent years, the arcade has gotten a facelift and is now a favorite shopping and dining spot for locals. If you have the extra time (or if it’s raining in Naples), the Castel Nuovo is just a few minutes by walk from Galleria Umberto I. This 13th-century castle is now the city’s main museum. Another worthwhile stop is at the Via Toledo branch of Il gelato Mennella, a local chain of ice cream parlors. They’ve been around since 1969 and I must say it was one of the best ice creams we tasted on this trip!
Further down Via Toledo is Piazza Trieste e Trento and the Teatro di San Carlo. This is the largest and oldest opera house in Italy and you can either attend an evening show or tour the building. Across from Piazza Trieste and the opera house is Gran Caffe Gambrinus. Over the years of traveling in Europe, I came to learn that every large city with a bit of history has its classic cafe and in Naples, this is the one. The cafe was founded in 1860 and is famous for its pastries and ice creams. With waiters dressed in their finest outfits, you can either down an espresso over the counter or grab a seat outside and watch the world go by.
Piazza Del Plebiscito
This marks the end of Via Toledo and is Naples’ main square. Its size is certainly something out of the ordinary in cramped Naples but there isn’t much happening here apart from admiring the architecture and enjoying the occasional live show. From the Piazza, you can detour to the Castel Nuovo – a 13th-century fortress which now houses the Civic Museum.
Waterfront
If you’ve got more time, consider heading straight down to the waterfront and catch awesome views of the Vesuvius Volcano. There are also a few paths which can extend your walking tour.
Pizza Dinner in Naples Historic Center
On this day, one of the biggest questions on your minds will no doubt be “where can you find the best pizza in Naples?” Well, I must say there were many candidates but they were all very much geared towards tourists (accordingly was the wait in line). There was Gino e Toto Sorbillo – famous among celebrities and the simpler Pizzeria I Decumani.
However, we simply asked our lovely host – Marina – and she told us that wise locals head to Pizza di Matteo instead. She was absolutely right as there were quite a few locals inside. The over was firing pizzas by the dozens and the taste was great, soft at the center and only really baked at the edges – a classic pizza Napoletana. The price? About 5€ per pizza pie!
Pro Tip: If you’re seeking to dine outside the tourist hot spot of the historic center, consider the Regina Margherita, Signora Bettola or Antica Pizzeria Del Borgo Orefici
Exploring Underground Naples
Since the time of the ancient Greeks, the ground beneath present-day Naples is dissected by a maze of tunnels and caves. Due to the relatively soft tuff – which is essentially compressed volcanic ash, the ground was ideal for excavation. Over the years, these caves were used as cisterns, ancient Roman theatres, escape routes, bomb shelters during WWII and burial grounds – much like the catacombs of Paris.
There are several routes in the Naples underground. The popular ones are the Naples Underground in the historic center and the famed Bourbon Tunnel with its remnant antique cars. However, our host recommended the Catacombs of San Gennaro and the Catacombs San Gaudioso as better alternatives. In the interest of time, we opted out of heading underground.
Day 2: Vesuvius Volcano, Pompeii & Drive to Amalfi
On day two of our weeks in the Amalfi Coast, we finally make it to the actual coast. We’ll start the day scaling the mighty Vesuvius Volcano, before exploring the ruins at Pompeii. Our day ends with a beautiful drive to our base for the next few days around Amalfi, and a romantic dinner to celebrate the “official” beginning of the trip.
Visiting Mount Vesuvius from Naples
Clearly seen from Naples, the sight of the mighty volcano (1,281m) is a constant tease, a hard-to-resist opportunity to scale an active volcano in the heart of Europe. Since erupting in 79 AD and destroying Pompeii, Vesuvius has been a constant threat and expected to erupt in the coming decades.
Pro Tip: If it’s a completely overcast day, consider skipping the visit to Vesuvius in favor of more time in Pompeii and/or the surrounding archeological sites. Visibility at the top will be minimal.
Driving to Mount Vesuvius from Naples takes about 30 mins but have lots of coins handy as the motorway is tolled in numerous sections (you can also take a bus from Naples). As you head up to the summit, the road snakes around the volcano. The scenery constantly changes with every bend and there are a number of panoramic spots overlooking the Gulf of Naples.
However, the road doesn’t go all the way to top. At some point, you’ll reach the upper carpark which costs about 5€. You can then either pay 1€ and be driven to the ticket booth (10€ entrance fee) or you can climb on foot for about 15 mins (the public bus goes all the way to the ticket booth). Reaching the crater rim takes about 20 minutes of climbing. The climb itself is not difficult at all but it is dusty (so wear show) and it will get chilly (and perhaps wet) if it’s an overcast day.
Peaking through the massive crater is pretty impressive but the real highlight is the view of Naples and the gulf from the summit, something we didn’t get to enjoy during our visit due to the bad weather…
Pompeii
On August 24 in the year 79 AD, the Roman city of Pompeii was wiped out by a massive eruption of Mount Vesuvius. At the time, Pompeii was a major center of commerce in the Roman Empire and its destruction was tragic. The ruins of Pompeii were first discovered in 1600, but excavations only began in 1748 and, in fact, they are continuing to this very day. Over the years, archaeologists have made chilling discoveries of residents and their pets frozen in time in layers of volcanic ash that has preserved their final postures.
Pompeii is a huge attraction to take in and it can easily consume half of your day. However, we spent a couple of hours strolling around and it was more than enough. We got the point, were super impressed, but were ready to move on.
You can visit Pompeii on a bus trip from Naples but if you have a car, keep in mind that you can enter the site from two gates but it’s the Marina Gate that you want to plan for. There are a handful of restaurants lining the main avenue and they’ll let you park for free if you grab lunch, which we found to be a good option. Entrance to the site costs 15€, with discounts for EU citizens under the age of 24 (skip-the-line tickets also available).
Once inside, we strolled straight in the direction of the forum which was essentially “the downtown” of Pompeii. We took in the various highlights around the forum, including the mosaics, bathhouses and what seems like the remains of humans and animals but are really the contours of volcanic ash which covered the poor souls who did not flee the ancient city. The only missed Pompeii highlights that were on our list were the amphitheater and the grand palace but they were on the far end from the forum and we really wanted to hit the road, and finally hit the Amalfi Coast.
Pro Tip: if you’re interested in the subject, consider combining your Pompeii visit with a tour of Herculaneum. Slightly closer to Naples than Pompeii, this site is a lot less crowded than its more famous neighbor.
Drive to Amalfi Area
The anticipated drive from Pompeii to our Amalfi base for the next three nights was incredible. Once you leave the coast and enter the mountains, the drive becomes challenging and exhilarating. The views are spectacular and if you’re not in a hurry, take the time and make a few stops. We made such a stop in a lookout near the village of Agerola, inside the Parco Regionale dei Monti Lattari. The views from up here are the views we were dreaming of when planning our vacation in the Amalfi Coast.
As you continue the drive, man’s victory over nature is absolutely mindblowing. The entire scene on the Amalfi Coast looks like a children’s game of “snakes and ladders”. Rows upon rows of lemon and olive trees blanket the contours of fertile hills and small vertical footpaths lead from homes clinging to the hillside down to cultivated plots of land.
Such a “collision” between man and nature has surely yielded the highest per capita ratio of steps to residents, not to mention locals with extremely strong leg muscles, regardless of what is happening around the waist. This seemingly inaccessible area poses a challenge for tourist drivers, perhaps the reason for the constant boat traffic going up and down the coast.
Where to Stay in Amalfi?
The answer to that is to actually not stay in Amalfi. The famed village is overcrowded with tourists not to mention with cars. Instead, stay in the village of Ravello or at the gem of a place that we found called World Center Resort. Located in the countryside about 10 minutes by car from Amalfi, this is the ideal location with stunning coastline views. Units have been recently renovated and their layout provides privacy. Breakfast is generously served in the beautiful garden and if you need any extra services such as a ride to and from Amalfi or a lift to the start of the Path of the Gods trailhead, that can be arranged on the spot. The only downside at the World Center is the lack of mosquito screens on the windows (but there is air conditioning).
Click here for all Amalfi accommodations which you can book online!
Dinner
Our first dinner on the Amalfi Coast was at Le Bontà del Capo in the village of Conca dei Marini. We came here at a friend’s recommendation and it was our best dinner on the Amalfi Coast. It’s amazing just how good the food was and how reasonable the price. We sampled some local wine to go along with octopus and Caprese salad to start things off. For mains, we had the fish ravioli and grilled sea bream. And for dessert… tiramisu, of course. Reservations are essential and I recommend asking for an outside table right on the terrace. Even in June, it might be a bit chilly in the mountains, so bring something warm just in case.
Part 2: Two Days in Amalfi, Ravello & Positano
The second part of our 7 days in the Amalfi Coast takes us to its most scenic sections. We’ll spend the first day exploring the hilltop village of Ravello before heading down to the coast (and the crowds) in Amalfi. On the second day, we’ll hike the Path of the Gods and explore Positano and its surroundings.
Follow all the places mentioned in this section with this companion map, simply click on the image to open Google Maps
Day 3: Ravello & Amalfi
Ravello and Amalfi are two of the most famous stops on the coast. Both villages are steeped with ancient history but their claim to fame is thanks to their days as posh summer vacation destinations for the rich, famous and royalty.
With Amalfi squeezed between the mountains and the coastline and Ravello’s challenging hilltop location, exploring the two is no easy task during the tourist season. My recommendation is to start your day early in Ravello and make your way down to Amalfi. Ravello is far more scenic and enjoyable, so having a few hours before the tourist buses arrive is a big plus. Ravello is also a romantic place to base yourself at and it has quite a few accommodations.
Pro Tip: in order to avoid having to search for parking in Amalfi after your Ravello visit, I recommend parking your car in Amalfi and using the public bus to get to Ravello and back down to Amalfi. Try the Luna Rossa garage, on the coastal road between Amalfi and Atrani.
Morning in Ravello
After a lovely breakfast with glorious views at the World Center, we drove straight to Ravello, passing Amalfi on the way. The drive to Ravello quite challenging but very scenic. The road snaking up the mountain is narrow and even capped to on lane in certain sections, so be on the lookout for traffic lights and adhere to them!
Upon reaching the village, the driving doesn’t get any easier but the views are to die for. The stunning coastline scenery is some of the Mediterranean’s best and, once again, it’s incredible to see how locals have changed the impenetrable landscape with their homes and agricultural plots.
We parked in the garage of the Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium for 2€ per hour which are dispensed into a machine so be sure to have enough change and regularly check the time. Arriving at around 9 am, the village was still pretty much free of tourists.
Villa Rufolo
The highlight of your visit to Ravello is the mansion and gardens of the Villa Rufolo (7€) so I recommend starting here before the crowds arrive. While the mansion’s interior is impressive, it’s the exterior that will take your breath away.
From the edge of its gardens, you’ll find some of the Amalfi Coast’s most scenic images and you’ll want to hang around here for a while to let everything sink in. The villa’s gardens also host numerous concerts throughout the summer season so be sure to check the lineup if you’re looking for some evening activity. You can also climb its tower which exits to a small terrace but it was a disappointing climb after the views from the gardens.
Piazza Duomo
The obvious next stop after Villa Rufolo is Ravello’s main square and cathedral. This is a good spot for an overpriced coffee and some window shopping. The cathedral itself is nice but nothing mind-blowing (free to enter).
Via S. Giovanni del Toro
This was a very interesting walk with a lovely garden (Giardini Principessa di Piemonte) and a couple of five-star hotels along the way. The street ends at Chiesa di San Giovanni del Toro which doesn’t see many crowds and is impressively made entirely from stone.
Via S. Cosma
Searching for the road to Villa Cimbrone and its gardens, we got totally lost and ended up walking along this street which eventually turns into a path connecting neighboring villages with Ravello. In some sections, it is actually carved into the mountain to allow people to pass. We really enjoyed the views from here and the local feel of the area, not to mention the fig trees and colorful bougainvillea to add to the romance of the area.
Ravello to Amalfi
The road heading down from Ravello to Amalfi offered a few scenic stops. From here, you can admire the views of the seaside village of Atrani, the Toro del Ziro and the lemon groves which cover the mountainsides like carpets. Down in the valley, you can see some of the paper mills for which this area used to be famous for.
Amalfi
Parking in Amalfi was an absolute nightmare as all garages were full. To make a long story short, we circled back and parked on the very same road to Ravello. That meant we had to walk down to the coastal road and walk through the village Atrani just to make it to Amalfi (and walk back).
Pro Tip: take extra caution in this part of the Amalfi Coast both as a pedestrian and as a driver. Locals drive recklessly and many buses share the road without any space for error (literally).
The bottom line when it comes to Amalfi is that, yes it is beautiful but my god it has been overtaken by tourists (and this was just the start of June). The village boasts a couple of black sand beaches and pastel-colored houses that impressively cling to the mountainside – creating a beautiful panorama. But it is just very crowded around here and unpleasant.
If you’re after some beach time, the one in Atrani and on the far end of Amalfi are more pleasant.
The Duomo
Set atop a flight of steps and commanding fine views over the central plaza, the 13th-century Cathedral of Amalfi celebrates the apostle St. Andrew who is buried in the cathedral’s crypt. It is absolutely worth the price of admission so don’t get lazy. Besides the main hall, be sure to explore the Alhambra-like cloister and the magnificent crypt.
The Municipio
Amalfi’s main plaza is the obvious choice for lunch, that is if you can find a table. We had no such luck and ate in Trattoria Pizzeria “Al Teatro” – a small family-owned restaurant off some interior alley.
Paper Mill Museum
Walking from the main square along Via Pietro Capuano, you can literally hear the water running beneath your feet. The street is actually constructed in a gorge and this was, back in the day, Europe’s hub for paper production. We paid a visit to the Museo della Carta to learn about the history of paper production in the area. In fact, this is the oldest paper mill in Europe but there used to be 65 others around Amalfi.
We were led to a damp room carved into the mountain where a small factory still turns cotton into paper. Our guide explained that cotton was imported to Amalfi and the water flowing down from the mountains provided the energy to turn the mill’s wheels. As for the paper’s color? That was owed to the “secret ingredient”… animal urine! The museum visit isn’t a must but children and curious travelers will enjoy the experience.
Day 4: Path of the Gods Hike & Positano
The fourth of our seven days in the Amalfi Coast will be our most active one. We’ll embark on the finest hike on the coast and visit the stunning seaside village of Positano. To end the day, we’ll hit the beach while avoiding the crowds.
Hiking the Path of the Gods
Connecting the villages of Agerola and Positano, the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) is the finest walk on the Amalfi Coast. Its most popular leg is between Bomerano and Nocelle and you can hike in either direction. However, the Bomerano to Nocelle route is far easier as its almost completely downhill and ends in the vicinity of Positano.
Legend has it that the gods came down to this pathway to reach the sea where the sirens that tried to seduce Ulysses with their singing lived (whatever that means). In any case, gods or no gods, you’ll be in heaven as you walk along the path.
Logistics: since the hike is not circular, you’ll need to somehow get back… We arranged with our hosts at the World Center to drive us to the Bomerano trailhead and pick us up from the Amalfi ferry terminal for just 20€ pp (including sandwiches). This was one of the smartest things we did on the trip since we were car free, and care-free for the day, not to mention the ferry from Positano to Amalfi offers exceptional vistas.
The hike to Nocelle will take about two hours and from here, it’s about another 40 minutes of downhill steps and some walking to Positano. I recommend wearing good hiking shoes to protect your ankles, packing 1.5L per hiker and to bring a change of clothes. Don’t forget sun protection!
Nocelle
The Path of the Gods led us to the village of Nocelle, where we paused for some lemon granita with a view before heading down to the village square for a picnic lunch. There are lots of great looking bed and breakfasts in the village, definitely a solid alternative over the madness down in Positano (if you have a car). Nocelle is also famous for Ristorante Santa Croce though it was closed when we passed through.
Nocelle to Positano
Funny enough, walking down the flights of stairs from Nocelle to the coastal road was harder than hiking the Path of the Gods. However, if you take it slow and pause for some views, it isn’t too bad and definitely a lot easier than hiking in the opposite direction. Once on the coastal road, it’s another 20 minutes to Positano (40 mins total from Nocelle), once again with many scenic stops along the way and a possible beach stop at Bagni d’Arienzo Beach Club if you fancy a swim.
However, if you can find the path down to this seemingly private beach, drop me an email and share the secret!
Positano
Positano should be renamed “Posh-itano”. It is no doubt worthy of a postcard but even more so than Amalfi, it is completely overrun by tourists (perhaps due to its relatively close proximity to Sorrento) and overpriced. I would recommend avoiding buying anything in its boutiques or so-called “factory ceramic shops”.
Much like its famous sister down the coast, Positano’s main street basically runs through a creek. It can be a challenge not to rub shoulders with others as things are very tight around here. However, Via Pasitea is higher up in elevation and offers exceptional views of the surrounding area.
Positano’s main historical attraction is, no surprise, a cathedral. Santa Maria Assunta is in the center of the village, not as impressive as the Duomo in Amalfi but it’s a nice escape from the June heat and the June noise of the outside.
Ferry from Positano to Amalfi
Frightened at the thought of having to kill a few hours in Positano before the ferry back to Amalfi, we tried our luck and made it just in time for an early ride back. Overall, we spent about an hour in Positano and even that was too much. The Travelmar ferry from Positano to Amalfi cost us 8€ each and took about 20 minutes. It was incredibly scenic on the way, basically the coastal version of the exact same scenery we saw from the Path of the Gods.
Conca di Marini
After a brief rest, we headed to the beach at Conca di Marini before dinner. This is one of the prettier beaches on this end of the coast, secluded by tall cliffs and requiring a walk down many stairs. Down at the rocky beach, there is a restaurant and cafe and you can even rent a boat. As with all Amalfi Coast beaches we encountered, they’re nothing to write home about.
Pro Tip: you can alternatively use this time to join a boat tour into one of the cave systems around Conca di Marina. The most famous one is the Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Cave).
Dinner at Nino’s
In the upper section of Conca di Marina, we grabbed dinner at La Piazza da Nino which is just down the road from Le Bonta del Capo. The prices were geared for tourists but the food was great and the outside seating was a blessing. The feeling was of dining in an old European Village that hardly makes it into second gear, even during the summer tourist season.
Part 3: One Day In Capri
The third leg of our 7 days in the Amalfi Coast takes us to the “celebrity” of the coast. We’ll start the day with a drive from Amalfi to catch the ferry to Capri from Sorrento and spend the rest of the day exploring the island. Spending the night in Capri, we’ll see what’s in store when the bulk of the tourists have left and enjoy a beautiful morning stroll in the island’s remote side.
Follow all the places mentioned in this section with this companion map, simply click on the image to open Google Maps
Day 5: Capri
Capri’s status of extreme glamor far outweighs its geographical size. Over the years, Hollywood stars, royalty and folks with lots of cash, have elevated Capri high above its closest neighbors. Though Capri boasts incredible natural scenery of intense blue meeting sheer limestone cliffs, its biggest drawbacks are its unbearable crowds and the cost of pretty much everything. If it’s serenity that you’re after, consider swapping Capri for the less popular island of Ischia. Here are a few essential tips for visiting Capri.
Capri Travel Tips
- When is the best time to visit Capri? The best way to answer this question is recommending when to avoid Capri and that would be during July and August. We visited at the start of June and Capri was crammed with tourists. It was bearable but unpleasant at the same time.
How to get to Capri by ferry? The only way to reach Capri is by boat and unless you own or charter one, the ferry is the way to go. Ferries to Capri depart in the summer season from most major Amalfi Coast towns, including Naples, with frequency the highest from the major ports of Naples and Sorrento. We took the ferry from Sorrento and paid about 20€ each way. Unless you are flexible with your time, I recommend buying your tickets in advance since finding parking and long queues may cause you to miss your desired departure time. Check out this website which lists ferry schedules to Capri from various shipping lines. - Taking the ferry to Capri with a car: it is not possible to take a car to Capri so you will need to park it somewhere before boarding the ferry. There are several parking garages along the access road to the port (Via Luigi de Maio), usually charging 20€ for 24 hours. Since the location was quite central, we stayed longer after returning from Capri and explored Sorrento. The total cost was 40€ in our case.
How to get around Capri? The biggest challenge is getting from the port up to Capri town. Capri’s famous open top taxis will take you on the 10-minute drive for 25€ but note they cannot drop you off in every spot since some areas are pedestrian-only zones. Your other options are the miniature buses (2.50€ + 2.50€ per luggage) and the cable car – funicular (2€ + 2€ per luggage) but those often experience long queues whenever a ferry arrives. To get from Capri to Anacapri and its vicinity, the bus is the best way to go. Technically, you must buy your bus ticket in advance from a kiosk or machine but we did see people paying cash when boarding the bus along its route. - Capri boat tours: it’s quite popular to charter a yacht in Capri and have it take you around the island. Prices are around 150€ for two hours and 200€ for three. We opted out in favor of land-based activities.
How long should you stay in Capri? Unless you’re coming with the kids for a quick visit, I highly recommend spending a night in Capri. In the late afternoon, all the organized groups and families head back to the mainland, leaving Capri a completely different paradise. This also means that calmness will be kept the following morning until the herd arrives, leaving you a few hours of exploring the island while still being able to hear the birds. If you’ll be overnighting in Capri, consider bringing along a small bag and leaving the suitcases behind. Capri’s streets can be a bit steep and they’re layered with cobblestone so pulling along a suitcase can be annoying. This makes more sense if you can leave your large bags in the hotel you’ll be staying at post-Capri visit. - Capri on a day trip: I recommend checking the weather forecast if planning a day trip to Capri. If it’s super cloudy and definitely if heavy rain is forecasted, your efforts will certainly not be rewarded. In addition, make an effort to arrive on the first ferry before the crowds make landfall.
- Is Capri expensive? Let’s put it this way, it’s more expensive than Bora Bora! Especially if you’re traveling with a family or on a budget, I recommend packing some sandwiches, drinks, and snacks for the day (and skipping the overnight stay). Everything is outrageously expensive with about a 40% premium compared to the mainland. That said, things are slightly cheaper around Anacapri than they are around Capri town.
Where to stay in Capri?
Anacapri is Capri’s larger and more “local” town and as such, it boasts a wider range of budget options. However, if you’re already spending the night in Capri, I recommend splurging a bit and staying in Capri Town where the views are far more impressive and the vibe on the outrageously glamorous side of the scale.
We stayed at the Villa Helios in Capri town for one night. Located just five minutes from the central square, Villa Helios is reached via the pedestrian lanes and commands sensational views from its 800-year-old property. Under new management since 2016, this place is exceptionally well maintained and offers excellent value for money. Rooms are clean and air-conditioned, breakfast is adequate, and the staff is super friendly.
Here’s a list of all Capri and Anacapri accommodations that you can book online
Amalfi to Sorrento
The drive from our accommodation near Amalfi to Sorrento took about 75 minutes, with the leg between Praiano and Positano especially slow going. With many sharp bends, buses, and opportunities to stop and snap some photos, I recommend planning extra time for this drive. A particular scenic stop is atop the Furore Gorge, a picturesque natural setting with a small fishing outpost by its pebble beach. You can take the stairs from the bridge all the way to the beach.
Ferry to Capri from Sorrento
If the weather is nice, be sure to grab a seat on the outer deck and enjoy awesome views of Sorrento, the Sorrentine Peninsula and finally of Capri as you approach the beautiful island.
Capri Town
After checking in to Vila Helios, we set out to explore sections of Capri town, the historical heart of the island. By noon, the town was overrun by tourists and selfie sticks. Most of the action happens around Piazza Umberto (La Piazzetta) – the main plaza, where you’ll find many restaurants, cafes, and the historic Santo Stefano church which was closed when we visited.
On the north end of La Piazzetta is the entrance to the cable car station and a terrace which commands views mainland views and Capri’s mountainous interior that are not to be missed.
From the central square, a number of pedestrian lanes branch out. These make up Capri’s main shopping area, though, with names such as Louis Vuitton and Dior, you’ll likely be doing more window shopping around here.
Pro tip: Capri town’s impressive sites are best enjoyed from the southern side of town, where we’ll head tomorrow morning in this itinerary so be sure to follow along.
Bus from Capri to Anacapri
Leaving some Capri town sites for tomorrow morning, we hopped on the bus for the short ride to Anacapri on the island’s western side. The bus route literally takes you through the mountains, and the views are sensational and frightening at the same time.
Monte Solaro
Absolutely worth it unless it’s an absolutely cloudy day, the 11€ cable car ride to the summit of Monte Solaro is not to be missed. It takes about 10 minutes to reach the top via the single-seat chairlift, giving you enough time to soak in the views along the way. The more you ascend, the quieter it gets and you can actually hear the birds as you leave the noise of the village behind.
At the summit (589 meters), you’ll be treated to the finest 360-degree views of Capri. Here’s a teaser…
Anacapri
Back down on level ground, we strolled for about 30 minutes in the historic center of Anacapri before heading back to Capri Town. It’s clear there’s a lot less action around here but that might not be such a bad thing. Be sure to visit the shop of Antonio Viva – probably the island’s most famous shoemaker. Capri is famous for a particular type of sandal and Antonio has sold his fair share of pairs to the world’s rich and famous. Watch him in action and buy a pair of two if you fancy, though prices average around 150€.
The Blue Grotto
The Grotta Azzurra is Capri’s top attraction, a cave that can only be entered from the open sea and where sunlight illuminates its water to intense blue color. As the island’s top attraction, visiting the Blue Grotto is very time consuming and expensive. It is best visited in the morning hours when the sea is calm but even if you’ve set out on your adventure, you might not get the “green light” to enter. We opted out of visiting this tourist trap and had no regrets.
Dinner in Capri Town
With the day trippers back on the mainland, Capri’s charm was much easier to sense. After checking a few places out, we dined at La Capannina Wine Bar where we sat in its interior facing one of the pedestrian lanes. Like many restaurants on the Amalfi Coast, La Capannina’s walls are decorated with pictures of its most famous diners over the years such as Bill Clinton and Jackie Onassis.
Besides the romantic vibe, we enjoyed some marinated anchovies and tomato salad for starters (Capri is famous for its local tomatoes), spaghetti and salmon for mains, and some tiramisu for dessert along with a bottle of wine for 115€ (including cover and service charges). Other recommended dinner options include Ristorante Da Tonino (good views but a bit of a walk from the center of Capri) and Ristorante Le Grottelle.
Day 6: Morning in Capri
Spending the night in Capri was a great decision. Not only was the evening quite romantic, but mornings in Capri are absolutely glorious. We used our last few hours in Capri for hiking and for visiting a few leftover spots in Capri town that we had skipped a day earlier in favor of the climb to Monte Solaro on the Anacapri side of the island.
Hiking in Capri’s Southeast Coast
Overall, it took us about 2.5 hours to visit the Capri’s rugged and less visited side. I recommend packing some snacks or sandwiches and wearing comfortable shoes as it can get a bit slippery if it has recently rained. In addition, you will have the opportunity to head down to the beach so if you have some extra time and feel the need to get wet – pack accordingly.
Arco Naturale
About 20 minutes on foot from Capri town’s main piazza, the Arco Naturale feels a world away from the madness. The sound of seagulls and pine trees swaying in the wind are only interrupted when speedboats zig-zag up and down the coast. From here you can really start to appreciate the dramatic landscape of Capri. It’s amazing how vertically the cliffs rise of the sea, beautifully eroded over time to form sharp pinnacles where only the birds can visit.
Grotta di Matermania
From the Arco Naturale, walk back in the direction of Ristorante Le Grottelle and pick up the snake-line staircase that descends to Grotta di Matermania (about an eight-minute walk). Though there’s not much evidence left, this limestone cave was once the site of a bizarre religious ritual but, in any case, it’s on the way to our next scenic stop.
Villa Malaparte
From the cave, the trail ascends back to the cliff’s edge and the views are incredible without a single soul around. From up here, you can catch a glimpse of the historic Villa Malaparte.
Faraglioni Cliffs
A few minutes later, you’ll reach an unofficial lookout towards Capri’s most iconic natural landmark, the Faraglioni – three limestone stacks which rise off the Capri coast up to a height of 111 meters. There are so many boats racing from all directions that the scene appears to be of a maritime highway, but the views are just fine from up here. A few minutes further, you can detour via a 300-meter trail down to a beach and get even closer to the cliffs. The Faraglioni of Capri is also home to the “blue lizard” which is only found on one of the pinnacles.
Belvedere di Tragara
The scenic trail merges with Via Tragara and this is a good opportunity to rest for a few minutes while enjoying the views from this lookout.
Giardini di Augusto
From the Belvedere di Tragara, it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk to the Augusto Gardens (1€ entry fee). The gardens are not that impressive (besides a ceramic-tiled bench) but the views totally are. From here, you’re treated to an additional angle towards the Faraglioni cliffs but, more interestingly, towards Via Krupp and Marina Piccola.
Via Krupp
By far the most interesting street in all of Capri, Via Krupp connects the area of the Augusto Gardens and Marina Piccola. There’s an incredible beach along the way but, unfortunately, the snake-trail is currently closed without any signs of reopening. Apparently, you can explore Via Krupp coming from Marina Piccola but do note that you will need to head back the same way you came from…
Belvedere of Punta Cannone
If you have another 30 minutes to spare, consider heading even further up to this scenic lookout for additional views of Capri’s southern coast. We did not have time for this detour and headed back to the port to catch our ferry to Sorrento.
Part 4: Two Days In Sorrento
The final leg of our 7 days in the Amalfi Coast takes us to Sorrento and its quiet peninsula. We’ll explore on foot one of the Amalfi Coast’s most famous towns before spending an entire day “village-hopping” in the neighboring peninsula which bears the town’s name.
Follow all the places mentioned in this section with this companion map, simply click on the image to open Google Maps
Day 6 (Continued): Sorrento
By the early afternoon, we returned from Capri with a few hours left to explore Sorrento. Built on a flat cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, Sorrento was and is a popular resort town for foreigners and Italians alike. Most of its charm is concentrated around its historical center and that’s where we’ll spend our time.
Where To Stay In Sorrento?
If you have a car, I actually recommend staying outside of town. We spent a couple of nights at Hotel & Spa Bellavista Francischiello in the area known Massa Lubrense. Located about 10 minutes by car from Sorrento, this turned out to be a great choice, mainly for the views – incredible sunsets and Capri in the distance. The hotel could use slight renovations but it was really comfortable, had a decent on-site restaurant, it was clean and quite fancy for the price we paid. The location is perfect for exploring the Sorrentine Peninsula and there’s even a beach and dive center nearby (Sea Club Conca Azzurra).
Other good locations are Sant’Agata Sui Due Golfi, Nerano and Termini, the latter two more adequate if you want to stay in tiny villages without a lot of tourists around you. If you’re traveling with children, Marina del Cantone could do the trick as hotels are close to the beach and there are plenty of dining and excursion options around.
Click here for all Sorrento and Massa Lubrense accommodations which you can book online!
Piazza Torquato Tasso
Sorrento’s main square is a place for people watching, though with the city’s traffic passing closely by, it can get a bit hectic. That said, there are a few architecturally-worthy landmarks worth checking out around the piazza’s perimeter, not to mention a number of ice cream options.
Sorrento Historical Center
Sorrento’s Old Town is mostly pedestrianized these days with Corso Italia and Via S. Cesareo as its main artery. The grid streets of the Old Town make for a pleasant stroll, not to mention souvenir shopping. Stop at Limonoro and at Nino & Friends for the tasting (they’ll both make sure you’ll leave the shop either drunk or on a sugar rush) but save your limoncello buying for later.
En route to the Sorrento Cathedral, we viewed the 15th-century Sedile Dominova from its exterior. Back in the day, this mansion was a famous meeting spot for the area’s elite. While it looks nothing out of the ordinary from the outside, the Sorrento Cathedral was one of the most impressive churches we visited on this trip. Its frescoed ceiling was just out of this world.
Not too far from the cathedral, on Corso Italia 63, you’ll find an excellent salumeria – kind of a delicatessen shop – called Antica Salumeria Gambardella. Besides sandwiches, this is a good place to buy some Italian food to take back home and their alcohol selection is pretty wide and well priced (cash only).
From the salumeria, we walked for about 15 minutes to the public gardens (Villa Comunale). The gardens themselves are nothing to write home about but the views are quite interesting, especially of the unappealing man-made beach below.
For Limoncello, we headed to I Giardini di Cataldo – an actual lemon grove and limoncello producer in the heart of Sorrento. It was cool to walk among the lemon trees but the shopping experience was less than optimal and totally geared for tourist buses. So, we grabbed some ice cream and headed to the Corner Shop which specializes in local wine, spirits, and other typical foods.
Day 7: Sorrento Peninsula
On the last day of our week on the Amalfi Coast, we planned for a beach day but the weather was not cooperating. So instead, we spent the day road tripping in the charming villages of the peninsula which turned out to be a memorable adventure. The Sorrento Peninsula is home to a number of picturesque villages. There isn’t a whole lot of action to speak of but it’s the drive, the stroll through the village, and the food which all come together to make the adventure.
Pro tip: for the best beaches around, check out The 100 Beaches of the Amalfi Coast by Roberto Pellecchia. Also note that the Sorrentine Peninsula boasts a number of great hikes, ranging from easy walks to hikes that rise to summits and descend to deserted coves.
Termini
Our first real stop was in the village of Termini though we had planned to make it all the way down to the tiny fishing village of Marina Lobra. The drive to Termini was quite scenic and we caught glimpses of Capri and the fishing village.
Termini was quite a pleasant surprise. The village itself is tiny but the vibe felt very local and there weren’t many tourists around. Besides awesome views from the main village square, we also stumbled upon Nastro D’oro – a famous local producer of limoncello and La Campanella Di Galano Monica – a local ceramic artist. Both offered excellent prices and we used the opportunity to wrap up our souvenir shopping.
At the advice of locals, we set out on a hike which began at the lower end of Via Campanella (follow signs to Monte S. Costanzo). Picking up the path which leads to the white mansion, this was an easy and quick hike to a panoramic lookout and 360-degree view of the entire coast – a real trip down memory lane considering this was the end of our journey.
This area offers several other paths which lead to secluded coves.
Nerano
The next stop was at the village of Nerano, where we bought sandwiches and some fruit for a picnic lunch in the village center. Time really seems to have taken a break in Nerano and if this vibe suits you, there are a number of accommodations here. Nerano is also the starting point for a one-hour hike to Ieranto Bay.
Marina del Cantone
Marina del Cantone boasts a number of hotels and restaurants set on the coast of Ieranto Bay. The beach itself is rocky so bring along a pair of sandals if you wish to get wet. We enjoyed the scenery over a glass of wine and considered dinner options here in Lo Scoglio and Le Sirene.
Sant’Agata Sui Due Golfi
Nestled in the Lattari Hills, Sant’Agata is a much larger village than the ones we visited so far on this road trip but the vibe is still very low key. After checking out the local cathedral, we walked to the Desert Monastery of Sant’Agata which is run these days by Benedictine nuns. The monastery itself dates back to the 17th century and has a very interesting history, but the views of the peninsula were the main attraction in our case (look for opening hours before visiting).
Dinner in Sant’Agata
The village of Sant’Agata is considered a foodies heaven so we looked for dinner options to celebrate the end of our week in the Amalfi Coast. Its most famous restaurant is the Don Alfonso – a Michelin star establishment in a luxury hotel, but we liked the sounds coming out of Lo Stuzzichino.
With a live band wrapping up their act, we sat down for one of the best meals we’ve ever had. Operated by the proud De Gregorio family, Lo Stuzzichino serves Sorrentine cuisine in a warm atmosphere where the chef frequently checks if the food is to your liking.
We really splurged here but the price tag wasn’t that high, especially not by Capri standards. What a great way to end a week in the Amalfi Coast!
What’s Next?
I hope you found this 7 days in Naples and the Amalfi Coast itinerary helpful! Here are additional resources to help you plan your trip.
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