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Planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast and don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered!
This five-day itinerary is based on our own travels and includes the best of the region, without the overwhelm. From exploring Sorrento’s lemon groves to hiking cliffside trails in Positano, island hopping to Capri, and cooking with locals in Amalfi, it’s designed to balance iconic sights with laid-back coastal charm.
We’ve packed this guide with our favorite tours, practical travel tips, and firsthand recommendations to help you plan a stress-free escape. No car? No problem. This itinerary is built around ferries, buses, and walking, so all you have to do is follow along and enjoy the view.
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this day trip to Capri and the Blue Grotto from Sorrento! Both are can’t-miss destinations, and taking this organized tour made visiting so easy. It was the most memorable day of our entire trip!
Check out the 750+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
You’ll start in Sorrento, the perfect launchpad for coastal adventures and day trips to places like Capri and Pompeii. Then it’s off to Positano, where colorful buildings tumble down the cliffs and lazy beach days meet scenic hikes. Along the way, you’ll cruise the coastline by boat, explore ancient ruins, and dive into southern Italy’s rich food culture—all without the hassle of driving.
Each day is thoughtfully planned to keep things easy and flexible, so you can spend less time figuring out logistics and more time soaking in sea views, fresh pasta, and that famous sunshine. Here’s how to make the most of five unforgettable days on the Amalfi Coast!
Let’s kick things off in Sorrento with breakfast at Gentile Cafè Sorrento. It’s a cozy little spot that opens early (7 am!) and is just a quick two-minute walk through a park to your first tour meeting point. It’s nothing super fancy, but it is exactly what you need before a full day of exploring. The coffee is solid, the service is quick, and the menu has all the essentials like pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and even a smoked salmon avocado croissant, which was a pretty great way to start the day.
You won’t be lingering here for hours, but that’s kind of the point. Grab a table outside if the weather’s nice, fuel up, and enjoy a relaxed bite before diving into Sorrento’s charm.
After breakfast, it’s time for one of the best experiences in Sorrento—a farm-to-table tour that’s as authentic as it gets. This half-day adventure kicks off at 9:30 am from downtown Sorrento, with an easy pickup point just minutes from where you had your morning coffee.
The tour takes you to a fourth-generation family-run farm nestled in the hills outside town, and it’s not just about the food (though that part’s incredible). From the moment we arrived, we felt more like guests than tourists, greeted with warm smiles and genuine hospitality.
We strolled through fragrant lemon groves and olive orchards and learned how the family produces their olive oil and honey using traditional methods. It’s a hop-on, hop-off setup, so you’re not walking the whole property—just enough to soak in the atmosphere (and that citrusy air). The guide keeps it engaging and personal, explaining the craft behind each product before you actually taste it.
And yes, there’s lunch made fresh from the farm’s organic ingredients and plenty of drinks to go around. You’ll be back in town by 1:30 pm, full, happy, and just the right amount of buzzed.
This tour was easily one of our favorite things we did on the Amalfi Coast. And clearly, we’re not the only ones who think it’s great. Just check out the thousands of five-star reviews here to see why travelers call it the highlight of their trip!
Check availability and book this top-rated Italian farm tour today!
After your tour, spend the afternoon exploring Sorrento, specifically the historic center. There are so many charming little streets that you can see a lot just by wandering around. Here are a few sights you can’t miss:
As the afternoon fades into evening, head back to Piazza Tasso for an aperitivo, because nothing says “welcome to Italy” like a pre-dinner drink with a view. This lively square is surrounded by bars and cafés, so you can pick a spot that catches your eye. We ended up at Fauno Bar, one of the most popular places in town, and it didn’t disappoint.
Located right on the corner of the piazza, Fauno has tons of outdoor seating—perfect for people-watching while sipping a cold drink. They also serve little snacks (classic aperitivo style), and the atmosphere is upbeat but relaxed.
Whether you stay here or try one of the nearby spots, this is the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. Just don’t fill up too much, dinner’s coming next.
After aperitivo, take a short five-minute stroll from Piazza Tasso to Accènto Restaurant Sorrento, one of Sorrento’s top-rated dinner spots—and for good reason. This cozy, modern trattoria delivers that perfect balance of refined Italian dishes without feeling overly fancy. The staff is welcoming, the portions are generous, and the seafood is as fresh as it gets.
We’d definitely recommend making a reservation, especially during the busy season, since this place fills up quickly (and once you taste the food, you’ll see why). The menu changes seasonally, but highlights include their lemon-scented sea bass, house-made pasta, and whatever special the chef is raving about that day.
It’s the kind of place where you end up staying longer than expected—lingering over dessert, soaking up the ambiance, and already dreaming about the next day on the Amalfi Coast.
No Italian evening is complete without gelato, and Fresco Sorrento is the perfect final stop. Just a quick 3-minute walk from Accènto, this little gelateria serves up creamy, flavorful scoops that are so worth the extra stroll.
They’ve got all the classics like pistachio, stracciatella, hazelnut, and a few unique seasonal flavors that rotate regularly. You can’t really go wrong, but if you’re feeling indecisive, just ask to try a sample or two before committing (the staff is super friendly). Grab a cup or cone and take your time enjoying it as you wander back through the quiet streets of Sorrento.
It’s the sweetest way to end your first day on the Amalfi Coast—gelato in hand, sea breeze in the air, and the buzz of Piazza Tasso just a few steps behind you.
Related Read: If you have more time in Sorrento, see our list of top things to do in Sorrento to fill in your itinerary!
Today starts early at the Sorrento Port, so this is definitely not the morning to linger over a long breakfast. There aren’t any solid breakfast spots right near the port, so your best bet is to grab something at your hotel before heading out, or hit a café along the way if you leave with a little extra time.
Think of it as fuel for an exciting day ahead—strong coffee, a quick pastry, maybe a yogurt or breakfast bar in your bag just in case. Trust us, once you’re out on the water with Capri in sight, you won’t miss the sit-down meal.
No trip to Sorrento is complete without visiting Capri, and this full-day tour made it totally stress-free. We just showed up at the Sorrento port by 7:40 am, and everything else, from ferry tickets to island transport, was taken care of. It was the kind of day when all we had to do was relax and enjoy the ride.
We kicked things off with a scenic jetfoil ride across the water, soaking in views of the Sorrentine coastline. Our guide, Tiziana, was incredible! She was funny, organized, and full of island facts we never would’ve learned on our own.
The first stop was the iconic Blue Grotto, a glowing sea cave lit by sunlight bouncing through the water. The waves can sometimes shut it down, but we lucked out and got inside. It felt like floating through an underwater light show.
Next, we toured Villa San Michele, a gorgeous villa-turned-museum with gardens and views that rival any postcard. Then it was on to Anacapri, where we stopped for lunch at our own expense before hopping on the Monte Solaro chairlift (also not included in the tour price, but absolutely worth it). Gliding solo above the island with endless views was unreal!
We wrapped up in Capri’s main square, grabbing a quick espresso and watching the world go by from a sun-drenched café. From there, it was back to the port for the ferry ride home.
Capri is stunning, but it can be overwhelming to do on your own. This tour made it easy—and honestly, we wouldn’t do it any other way!
Check out the HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
After a full day on the water and exploring Capri, dinner by the sea is the perfect way to wind down. Porta Marina Seafood sits right along the waterfront in Sorrento’s Marina Grande, about a 20-minute walk from the port where your tour ends. Depending on how you’re feeling, you can either head back to your hotel to freshen up or stroll straight there for an early dinner with a view.
This spot is a local favorite for ultra-fresh seafood in a relaxed, no-frills setting. It’s the kind of place where the menu changes based on what was caught that day, and the dishes are all about simplicity and flavor. The grilled fish, mussels, and house-made pasta are standouts, and the waterfront tables make it an extra special way to close out the evening!
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Start your morning with a quick breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café before heading out for the day. Today, you’ll be making your way from Sorrento to your next home base in Positano. The timing depends on how you choose to spend the day, but getting between the two is easy.
You can hop on a ferry for a scenic 1-hour ride, take a private transfer for a quicker 30-minute drive, or catch the local bus, which takes about 45 minutes (though it can get crowded in high season).
If you’re up for an adventure, head to Positano in the morning, drop your bags at your new hotel, and set out on the Path of the Gods hike. Want to squeeze in one more classic experience? Stick around in Sorrento for a half-day tour of Pompeii, then travel to Positano later in the day. Either way, by evening, you’ll be settled into Positano and soaking up those iconic coastal views with a spritz in hand.
If you’re heading to Positano in the morning, one of the best ways to spend the day is by tackling the Path of the Gods—a bucket-list hike that offers jaw-dropping views of the Amalfi Coast from above. It’s easily one of the most popular trails in the region, and for good reason.
The hike typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take photos (and trust us, you’ll want to stop a lot). The most straightforward route starts in Bomerano and ends in Nocelle, just above Positano. To get there, take the ferry from Positano to Amalfi, then hop on the local bus to Bomerano. It’s doable on your own, but buses and ferries can get very crowded in high season, so pack your patience.
If you’d rather skip the logistics, consider booking a guided tour—you’ll get expert insight along the way and won’t have to worry about finding your way around.
This guided tour is led by a professional who shares fascinating stories and legends of the Amalfi Coast, from sirens and myths to the traditions of small villages along the trail.
You’ll hike through aromatic Mediterranean scrub, stop at breathtaking panoramic viewpoints, and even enjoy a coffee or tea break along the way. Plus, there are plenty of morning start times to fit your schedule.
However you do it, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most unforgettable views on the coast!
Book your guided hike and transport here!
After finishing the Path of the Gods hike in Nocelle, treat yourself to a well-earned lunch at Rifugio dei Mele. This casual, family-run spot offers sweeping coastal views, hearty plates of pasta, and a relaxing atmosphere—exactly what you’ll crave after a few hours on the trail.
Grab a table on the terrace if you can and soak in the scenery while you recharge. The menu is simple but satisfying, with local specialties like caprese salads, fresh lemon desserts, and plenty of options to refuel without overdoing it.
From here, you can either walk down the winding stairs to Positano (about 30–40 minutes) or catch the local bus for an easy ride into town. Either way, you’ll arrive full, happy, and ready to settle into your hotel and relax before dinner.
If you choose to stick around Sorrento for the day, this Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius tour is a must. To make the most of the day, we recommend choosing the early 7:30 am start time—it beats the crowds and gives you cooler weather for hiking the volcano. You’ll return around 4:00 pm, giving you just enough time to collect your bags and transfer to Positano in the late afternoon.
Some places just hit differently in person, and Pompeii is one of them. Walking its ancient streets with a guide made the ruins feel alive, from the grand Forum to intricate villas and even a Roman fast-food joint. The most haunting moment? Seeing the plaster casts of victims frozen in time. It’s powerful, eerie, and unforgettable!
Thanks to skip-the-line access, we didn’t waste any time getting inside and had plenty of time to explore before the crowds set in. After a break for lunch at your own expense, the tour continues with a drive up the slopes of Mt. Vesuvius.
The bus takes you most of the way, but the final stretch is a steep, dusty hike to the crater’s edge. Looking into the heart of the volcano that buried an entire city and knowing it’s still active adds a layer of awe to the whole experience.
If Vesuvius is closed due to weather or safety concerns, the tour swaps to Herculaneum, another ancient Roman city beautifully preserved in ash. Either way, it’s a full day of history, scenery, and adventure—all from the comfort of Sorrento, before wrapping up and heading to Positano for your next coastal stay.
Book this popular tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Whether you spent the day hiking coastal cliffs or wandering ancient ruins, one thing’s for sure—you’ve earned a relaxed evening. Once you’ve checked into your hotel in Positano and had a moment to freshen up, head out for a laid-back dinner and a gentle stroll through town.
We ate at Mediterraneo, a welcoming, family-run restaurant known for its seafood dishes and warm hospitality. The lemon risotto and grilled catch of the day were standouts, and the friendly staff made it feel like home. Reservations are highly recommended, especially in high season.
After dinner, take a slow walk through Positano’s quiet evening streets. The town’s pastel buildings glow under string lights, the air smells like citrus and salt, and you’ll hear the soft sounds of music drifting from open windows and lively piazzas. It’s the perfect way to end the day—no schedule, no rush, just soaking in the magic of the Amalfi Coast at night!
Start your morning with a fresh bite at Collina Positano Bakery, a cozy local favorite that opens bright and early at 7:30 am. It’s just an 8-minute walk to the Amalfi Coast cruise meeting point, making it a super convenient stop before your day on the water.
You’ll find buttery pastries, warm focaccia, and strong Italian coffee—everything you need to fuel up without slowing down. Grab a table if you’ve got a few extra minutes, or take your order to go and enjoy it on the walk with coastal views already starting to peek through the alleyways.
There’s no better way to see the Amalfi Coast than by boat, and this small-group tour from Positano makes it effortless. The tour departs at 9:00 am and returns around 4:00 pm, giving you a full day to soak up the sunshine, swim in crystal-clear coves, and explore charming coastal towns—all without the stress of planning anything yourself.
We cruised past dramatic cliffs and pastel fishing villages, stopping at Fiordo di Furore and Praiano for some of the best swimming and snorkeling of the trip. The boat was well-equipped with towels, drinks, snacks, and even Bluetooth speakers, so the vibes stayed high all day long.
Our guide, Jacob, was friendly, laid-back, and full of great info about the coastline. He pointed out hidden caves, shared local legends, and gave us plenty of time to relax. We also had two hours of free time in a coastal town of our choosing (we picked Amalfi) to explore, grab a bite, or do a little shopping.
With plenty of space on board and personalized attention, this tour felt more like a day with friends than a standard group outing—and it was easily a highlight of our Amalfi Coast stay.
Book this boat tour here and experience a carefree day along the Amalfi Coast!
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
After a day out on the water, enjoy a slower-paced evening getting to know Positano. Since this cliffside town is your home base for a few days, you’ve got time to explore without rushing. Here are a few must-see spots worth checking out while you’re here:
Tonight, head a little uphill to Ristorante Da Costantino, a local favorite tucked away from the crowds with incredible views overlooking Positano. Don’t worry about the climb—they offer a free shuttle service to and from town, so you can enjoy the meal without stressing about logistics.
The vibe is cozy and family-run, with hearty portions and a menu full of regional classics. Think homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and lemony desserts that taste like summer on a plate. It’s the kind of spot where the food is just as memorable as the view and where you’ll leave feeling like you’ve eaten at someone’s home.
Before setting off for Ravello, swing by Angelo Cafe for a quick and delicious breakfast! It’s just a 13-minute walk from the ferry terminal, making it a super convenient stop before catching your boat.
Best of all, this place has amazing views! Grab a strong espresso and a fresh pastry (or two) to fuel up for the day ahead. The service is quick, the baked goods are always fresh, and it’s the perfect scenic way to start your final day on the Amalfi Coast.
Perched high above the coast, Ravello offers a totally different vibe from the seaside towns below. It’s quieter, greener, and famous for its panoramic gardens, medieval villas, and musical history. With fewer tourists and cooler breezes, it’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a more peaceful slice of the Amalfi Coast.
To get to Ravello, you’ll first take the ferry (which takes about 15 minutes) from Positano to Amalfi, then catch a 25-minute bus ride up into the hills. We recommend taking the 9:00 am ferry—it’s the earliest option and gets you to Ravello by around 10:00 am, giving you plenty of time to explore before the midday crowds roll in.
You probably won’t have time to see everything on the list, so pick a couple or a few highlights depending on when you plan to stop for lunch and how much walking you want to do.
After a morning of exploring Ravello, stop for a little lunch at il Panino Food and Drink, which opens at 11:00 am. This casual spot is great for a quick bite—think fresh sandwiches, bruschetta, or a simple antipasto plate to tide you over.
Since you’ll be joining a cooking class later, we recommend keeping it light. The service is quick and friendly, and there are a few small tables where you can relax and recharge. After lunch, make your way down to Amalfi, either by bus or taxi, so you’ll arrive in plenty of time to meet your instructor and roll up your sleeves for an afternoon in the kitchen.
By now, you’ve likely passed through Amalfi a few times, but today is your chance to finally explore it! If you have some time before your 3:00 pm cooking class, spend a couple of hours wandering this historic seaside town and soaking in its charm. Here are a few top choices you could check out:
Related Read: Looking for some more fun activities in Amalfi? Check out our top 5 favorite things to do here!
After exploring the town, cap off your Amalfi adventure with one of the most memorable experiences on the coast with this hands-on cooking class just a 4-minute drive from the city center.
We recommend booking the 3:00 pm class, which runs until 7:00 pm and includes everything from garden tours to a full dinner with drinks. It’s incredibly popular, so be sure to book in advance.
If it’s sold out, no worries—just flip your day and visit Amalfi in the morning and Ravello in the afternoon instead. In that case, you can swap the lunch stop with the food tour and enjoy a proper dinner later in Ravello, which has plenty of charming spots for an evening meal.
With just 10 guests, the class felt more like a friendly gathering than a formal lesson. Francesco, Fabio, and Nikolo welcomed us warmly, then led us through their terraced gardens to pick fresh ingredients and share stories about local farming and how they produce some of the region’s most iconic ingredients.
Then it was apron time! We made bruschetta, gnocchi, and lemon tiramisu with hands-on guidance and warm hospitality. Sharing our homemade feast over drinks made it even more special—everyone left inspired to recreate it at home.
This tour was a standout moment from our time on the Amalfi Coast. It ended up being one of the most memorable parts of our entire trip. And judging by the hundreds of five-star reviews, we’re not the only ones who felt that way!
Reserve your spot in this cooking class here before spots fill up!
After your cooking class, catch the ferry back from Amalfi to Positano and make the most of your final night on the coast. For a memorable send-off, head to Franco’s Bar, one of Positano’s most stylish and scenic drink spots.
Perched above the sea with panoramic views of the town’s iconic cliffside, Franco’s is all about great drinks and even better atmosphere. Sip a glass of red as the sun sets and the lights of Positano begin to twinkle below. It’s walk-in only and can get busy, so go early if you want a front-row seat to the view.
Raise a glass to an unforgettable five days on the Amalfi Coast—you’ve earned it!
Related Read: Continuing your travels after the Amalfi Coast? Check out our perfect 10-day Italy itinerary and let us help plan the rest!
With two nights in Sorrento and three in Positano, you’ll want to book a memorable stay! Here are our top recommendations for both cities, suitable for luxury, mid-range, or budget travelers. If these hotels still have availability for your travel dates, they are sure to make your vacation that much more relaxing!
Palazzo Marziale is a stunning luxury stay in the heart of Sorrento. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast, relax in the stylish lounge areas, and dine at the on-site restaurants. Plus, with its prime location near Piazza Tasso and the scenic waterfront, you’ll be perfectly situated to explore the best of Sorrento! Prices vary by season but start around €300 to €500.
You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mistral Luxury Suites is a fantastic mid-range option offering spacious suites, with some featuring balconies and gorgeous sea views. It is also just a short walk from the train station and Piazza Tasso, making it a great base for exploring the Amalfi Coast! Prices usually range between €140 – €250 per night depending on the time of year.
You can book this stay on Booking.com.
Ostello Le Sirene is a budget-friendly option in Sorrento, perfect for travelers looking for a central and affordable stay. The hostel offers both private rooms and dormitories, all with air conditioning. Plus, it’s just a short walk from the beach, and guests can enjoy discounts at a partner restaurant nearby! Private rooms usually start at around €70 per night, and dorm beds are around €40.
You can reserve your room here on Booking.com!
Related Read: If you’re looking for even more hotel options in Sorrento, check out our detailed Where to Stay in Sorrento guide.
Albergo Miramare Positano is a luxury hotel, overlooking the Gulf of Salerno for impeccable views from your room’s terrace. They offer standard hotel rooms or suite style, and all have charming decor. The hotel is located just off of Positano’s main street, so you’re close to the top sights. Prices start at €520 per night and can exceed €1,000 depending on room choice.
Check prices and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.
Villa Rosa is a moderately priced hotel, perched on the cliffside near downtown Positano, so you’re close to the best restaurants, shops, and beaches. The decor is vintage and you can choose rooms with a sea view or city view, ranging from doubles, twins, or suites. You must book a minimum of three nights, and prices start at €340 per night.
Check availability and book this hotel here on Booking.com.
Gresy Appartamento Suite is the most budget-friendly stay in the area, but it’s not lacking in quality! This one-bedroom, one-bathroom is an ideal home away from home. You can enjoy views of the mountains and the sea from the terrace or quickly get to Fornillo Beach in just 1 kilometer (0.6 mile). This apartment is available for €212 per night.
This budget-friendly stay can be reserved on Booking.com.
Related Read: For an in-depth description of the best areas to stay along the Amalfi Coast and more hotel options, have a look at our Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast guide!
Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!
We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Italy
What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.
In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.
We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
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If you’re looking for a bucket list-worthy getaway, you’ll find it with this 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary! We still reminisce about our trip here, from the sparkling blue waters of Capri to the tasty Limoncello and the cliff-top views. Oh, and I can’t forget the food!
If you need help planning the rest of your Italy trip, check out all of our Italy blogs! We love sharing our favorite travel destinations and experiences with fellow adventurers. Here are a few more blogs to inspire your next trip!
5 Best Things to do in Ravello, Italy
6 Best Things to do in Positano, Italy
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Naples, Italy – Best 3-Day Itinerary
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Bari, Italy: 3-Day Itinerary
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We are Dan and Bailey, just your typical thrill-seeking travelers! You will likely find us hiking, scuba diving, and eating as much food as we possibly can (likely with a glass of wine in hand!) We’ve actually been traveling non-stop for the last seven years now, so we really are living a “destinationless” lifestyle! Cheers for joining us on our adventures!
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