From the glamorous streets of Positano to the hidden coves along its winding coastline, this Amalfi Coast 5-day itinerary will guide you through one of Italy’s most spectacular destinations.
Whether you’re planning an Amalfi Coast road trip for 5 days or looking to explore the Amalfi Coast in summer using public transport, this comprehensive itinerary will guide you through one of Italy’s most spectacular destinations.
Quick Overview of Visiting Amalfi Coast in 5 Days
Here is a quick overview of your itinerary. This is a busy itinerary so that you can see at much as possible. If you prefer traveling at a slower pace I recommend removing the Path of Gods hike.
- Day 1: Drive to Amalfi Coast and explore Positano
- Day 2: Enjoy the stunning Isle of Capri
- Day 3: Explore the beautiful coastal towns along the Amalfi Coast drive
- Day 4: Check out some of the best Amalfi Coast beaches
- Day 5: Hike along the Path of Gods and head back to Naples
Helpful Information Before You Go
Let’s start with the essentials that will make or break your Amalfi Coast experience.
Timing is everything, and choosing the right season can mean the difference between fighting through crowds in sweltering heat and enjoying peaceful moments.
When to Visit
- Best months: May – June and September – October
- Tip: Avoid mid-summer due to sweltering heat and large crowds.
Duration
- For the perfect Amalfi Coast experience, 7 days would be ideal. However, this 5-day itinerary is carefully planned to hit all the highlights at a slightly faster pace.
- For a slower vacation, I recommend taking out the Path of Gods hike on the last day and removing Praiano and Burgo di Furore from day 3.
Where to Stay
- Our Recommendation: 4 nights in Positano (See our Positano Hotel Recommendations) – Our itinerary will assume that you are based in Positano.
- Alternative Options: Praiano, Ravello, or Amalfi
- Note: Positano is the most beautiful but also one of the more expensive options
Here is a full post to help you decide where to base yourself in the Amalfi Coast.
Getting from Naples to Amalfi Coast
- Travel time: Around 1.30 hours (longer in rush hour)
- Transportation options:
- Local transport (bus, train, ferry)
- Rental car (recommended option) – we rent our cars through DiscoverCars in Naples.
- Shared Shuttle Transfer Option (Book Here)
- Private One-Way Transfer Option (Book Here)
- Find more detailed information in our post about how to get from Naples to Amalfi Coast
The Ultimate Amalfi Coast 5-Day Itinerary
Let’s dive into the perfect 5-day itinerary to experience the best of Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast.
Day 1: Naples to Positano
Today is about settling into the rhythm of coastal life – from your first glimpse of the dramatic coastline during your drive from Naples, to an afternoon exploring Positano’s charming streets and beaches.
Morning: Naples to Positano Drive
- Driving: The drive from Naples to Positano takes around 1 hours to 2+ hours during peak traffic times.
- Transfers: You can also book a shared shuttle transfer or private shuttle transfer.
- Train + Bus: Take the train from Naples to Sorrento and then catchthe SITA bus to Positano.
You also have the option of stopping at either Pompeii and/or Sorrento on the way to Positano.
- Pompeii (2 – 3 hours exploration time) – perfect for history enthusiasts
- Sorrento (1 – 2 hours exploration time) – for unique cliff coastline views
Personally I would skip both of those spots so I have time to explore Positano in the afternoon instead, but I thought I would add the option there.
Afternoon: Positano Exploration
After settling in, it’s time to discover the charms of Positano.
Start at the beach and work your way up through the picturesque streets, stopping at boutiques and viewpoints along the way.
- Relax at Spiaggia Grande beach (rent a beach chair)
- Capture the iconic view of Positano from the beach
- Shop at boutique stores for glamorous outfits and beachwear
- Visit Santa Maria Assunta Church
- Optional: Boat rental for sunset harbor views
Day 2: Isle of Capri & Blue Grotto Day Trip
Set sail across turquoise waters to the legendary Isle of Capri. The best way to enjoy today is to book this small group boat tour here.
Your day will be filled with a boat ride from Positano to Capri past towering rock formations, dips in hidden coves, and time to explore Capri island’s elegant streets and viewpoints.
Full Day Excursion (8.5 hours) Tour Includes:
- Sightseeing boat from Amalfi Coast to Capri
- Views of Faraglioni rocks
- Swimming and snorkeling stops
- Blue Grotto visit (extra cost)
- Free time on Capri
Suggested Activities on Capri:
Once on the island, you’ll have several hours to discover Capri’s charm at your own pace. Here are some ideas of what to do.
- Lunch and shopping in Capri town
- Monte Solaro chairlift ride
- Villa San Michele visit
- Via Tragara walk to Faraglioni viewpoint
Day 3: Amalfi Coast Town Road Trip
Get ready for the ultimate Amalfi Coast road trip as you wind your way through the region’s most beautiful towns.
From the spiritual beauty of Praiano’s churches to the stunning gardens of Ravello, each stop offers a new perspective on this remarkable coastline.
Planning Your Road Trip
Driving gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, stopping at viewpoints and hidden gems along the way.
But you do also have the option of taking the public bus or a ferry (although in this case I would suggest skipping Praiano and Borgo di Furore).
1. Amalfi (35 min drive from Positano):
Start your morning in the coast’s namesake town, where history and charm abound. Here are some things to do in Amalfi:
- Duomo di Amalfi
- Limoncello tasting
- Paper Museum
- Beach area photos
2. Ravello (20 min drive):
Explore this sophisticated hilltop town, home to some of the coast’s most spectacular views. Here are some things to do in Ravello:
- White marble Duomo
- Villa Cimbrone gardens
- Terrace of Infinity
3. Praiano (45 min drive):
End your day in this peaceful fishing village, where the churches take on a magical glow at sunset. Here are some things to do in Praiano:
- Church of San Gennaro
- Church of San Luca Evangelista
- Marina di Praia viewpoint at golden hour
Return to Positano (15 min drive)
Day 4: Beach Day
After three days of exploration, it’s time to embrace the dolce far niente (the sweetness of doing nothing) that Italians have perfected.
Today is your day to soak in the Mediterranean sun and sea at your own pace. You can find a list of the best Amalfi Coast beaches here.
Choose from these beaches:
- Castiglione di Ravello (Ravello area)
- Arienzo Beach (Positano area)
- Tordigliano Beach (Positano area)
- Fiordo di Furore (Praiano area)
Beach Tips:
- Expect fees for sun loungers
- Swimming can be tricky due to large pebbles
- Bring small change for beach facilities
- Take a swim for unique coastal views
Day 5: Path of Gods & Return to Naples
Your final day takes you quite literally to the Path of Gods – one of Europe’s most spectacular hiking trails.
Ancient shepherds may have walked these paths before, but today, its yours to conquer.
Morning: Path of Gods Hike
- Duration: 2.5+ hours
- Length: 7.8 km
- Difficulty: Easy-moderate
- Route: Bomerano to Nocelle
- Note: Not suitable for those with vertigo
Options:
- Self-guided: Take bus to Agerola (Bomerano)
- Guided: Book the Amalfi Coast Path of Gods 3-Hour Trek
Afternoon: Return to Naples
Its time to make your way back to Naples. If possible leave this drive till the late afternoon so you can have as much time as possible to soak up the last of Positano.
Final Thoughts on Our Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 5 Days
Whether you’re sipping limoncello in Amalfi, watching the sunset from Ravello’s Terrace of Infinity, or diving into the crystal-clear waters of Capri, each moment of these five days will create memories that last a lifetime.
This carefully crafted Amalfi Coast road trip 5 days itinerary ensures you won’t miss any of the highlights while still having time to soak in the region’s unique charm.
Looking for more Amalfi Coast travel tips?
- Cute Amalfi Coast Summer Outfits – Pack perfectly for those Instagram-worthy moments
- Best Things to Do in Amalfi Coast – Discover hidden gems and must-see attractions
- Tips for Driving the Amalfi Coast – Master those winding coastal roads with confidence
Find more Italy travel inspiration and tips on our Italy Travel Blog. From Venice to Sicily, we’ve got your Italian adventure covered!
