The Ultimate Amalfi Coast Route: Where to Go & How Long to Stay

The Amalfi Coast is famous for its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, delicious cuisine, and stunning sea views. But with so many enchanting towns along the coast, planning the perfect itinerary can be a challenge—especially if you want to make the most of your time! Below, you’ll find our expert suggestions for the best order to visit Amalfi Coast towns and how long to stay in each, customized for trips of different lengths.

If you have 3 to 5 days, focus on the region’s most iconic towns and classic experiences. The best way to maximize your time is to start on one end of the coast and work your way along, using ferries or buses for efficiency.

Suggested Route: Positano → Amalfi → Ravello

• Day 1: Positano
  1–2 days
  Begin in Positano, famous for its pastel houses and vibrant beach scene. Spend your time wandering the steep streets, shopping for local fashion, relaxing on Spiaggia Grande, and enjoying a seafood dinner with a sea view.
• Day 2: Amalfi
  Half to Full Day
  Travel by ferry or bus to Amalfi. Tour the majestic Duomo di Amalfi, sample lemon-infused treats, and explore charming piazzas. Don’t miss a quick stroll to neighboring Atrani for a more local vibe.
• Day 2–3: Ravello
  Half to Full Day
  Take a bus or taxi up to Ravello for sweeping views. Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone’s gardens, then enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner on a terrace. If possible, stay the night for a peaceful retreat from the crowds.

Tips:

• Book ferries and top restaurants in advance during high season.
• Travel light—expect stairs and cobblestones everywhere!
• If you have 5 days, add a beach day in Praiano or an excursion to Capri.

With about a week, you can slow the pace, add lesser-known villages, and savor more local flavors and activities.

Suggested Route: Sorrento → Positano → Praiano → Amalfi → Ravello → Minori/Maiori

• Day 1: Sorrento
  1 day
  Begin in Sorrento, the ideal base for exploring the coast and nearby Pompeii. Stroll the old town, enjoy limoncello tastings, and catch sunset views over the Bay of Naples.
• Days 2–3: Positano
  1–2 days
  Take the ferry to Positano. Enjoy the beach, cliffside dining, and a boat tour along the coast.
• Day 4: Praiano
  1 day
  A quieter alternative, Praiano offers peaceful coves, sunset aperitivos, and access to the scenic Path of the Gods hiking trail.
• Day 5: Amalfi & Atrani
  1 day
  Visit Amalfi’s cathedral, then walk to Atrani, a hidden gem with authentic trattorias and fewer crowds.
• Day 6: Ravello
  1 day
  Soak in the art and gardens of Ravello, then unwind at a café overlooking the coast.
• Days 7–8: Minori or Maiori
  1–2 days
  End with laid-back beach days in Minori or Maiori, and don’t skip the famous pastries at Sal De Riso in Minori. For a change, consider a side trip to Cetara for renowned anchovy dishes or to Vietri sul Mare for beautiful ceramics.

Tips:

• Mix ferry rides with bus transfers for flexibility.
• Plan at least one boat excursion—either along the coast or to Capri.
• Stay overnight in smaller towns for a quieter, authentic experience.

With nine days or more, you can savor the coast in depth, including hidden gems, day trips, and time for true relaxation.

Suggested Route: Sorrento → Nerano → Positano → Praiano → Furore → Amalfi & Atrani → Ravello → Minori/Maiori → Cetara/Vietri sul Mare

• Day 1: Sorrento
  1 day
  Use Sorrento as your gateway for excursions to Pompeii or Capri.
• Day 2: Nerano
  Half to Full Day
  Enjoy Nerano’s hidden beaches and its signature zucchini pasta (spaghetti alla Nerano).
• Days 3–4: Positano & Praiano
  2 days
  Take your time in Positano, then savor a slower pace and amazing sunsets in Praiano.
• Day 5: Furore
  Half Day
  Visit the dramatic Fiordo di Furore, a unique fjord-like cove perfect for swimming and photos.
• Days 6–7: Amalfi & Atrani
  1–2 days
  Tour Amalfi’s historic sites and enjoy Atrani’s quieter charm.
• Day 8: Ravello
  1 day
  Spend a relaxed day exploring gardens, villas, and attending (if in season) a music festival.
• Day 9+: Minori, Maiori, Cetara, Vietri sul Mare
  1–2 days
  Slow down with beach time in Minori or Maiori, or discover Cetara’s seafood and Vietri’s ceramics.

Tips:

• Stay flexible—spend extra time where you feel most relaxed.
• Consider day trips to Capri, Pompeii, or hiking the Valle delle Ferriere.
• Mix luxury stays with family-run B&Bs for a full range of experiences.

• Direction matters: Traveling from Sorrento (west) to Salerno (east) usually means less traffic and smoother logistics.
• Transport: Ferries offer scenic rides and avoid traffic. Buses are budget-friendly but can be crowded in peak season. Consider taxis or private transfers for convenience, especially with luggage.
• Dining: Reserve tables at popular spots in advance. Don’t miss local seafood, lemon-infused dishes, and world-class pastries.
• Pace yourself: The Amalfi Coast is about savoring each moment, whether that’s a stunning vista, a memorable meal, or a lazy afternoon by the sea.

Wherever you go and however long you stay, following the right route will help you experience the very best of the Amalfi Coast—one unforgettable village at a time.