5 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary – Perfect Guide for First Timers (2024)

Introduction and Geography

The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretches 50 kilometres along Italy’s western coast, offering a stunning backdrop of cliffs, charming villages, and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. Nestled between Naples and Salerno, this area combines natural beauty with rich history and culture. Home to iconic towns like Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Sorrento, it’s a dream destination for anyone seeking scenic views, authentic Italian cuisine, and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re lounging on the beaches of Positano, exploring Amalfi’s ancient cathedrals, or wandering through the elegant gardens of Ravello, this 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary will allow you to enjoy the best of the place without feeling rushed. This guide is tailored for a first-time visitor, with tips on what to expect, where to stay, and how to make the most of every day.

The Cost of Travel for this 5 day Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Budgeting for Transportation

Transportation along the Amalfi Coast varies based on personal preference. The most affordable and scenic way to travel between towns is by bus and ferry, which typically costs €2–€6 per ride, depending on the route. Ferries, although slightly more expensive, offer breathtaking coastal views. Car rentals provide more flexibility but comes with high parking fees, particularly in towns like Positano. Daily expenses for transportation can range from €20–€50 per person.

Accommodation Options and Costs

Accommodation costs can vary greatly across towns. Positano and Amalfi are pricier, with mid-range hotels averaging €150–€250 per night, whereas Sorrento offers more affordable options, with rooms starting at €80. Luxury travellers can expect to spend upwards of €400 per night for upscale hotels, particularly those with sea views or private beach access.

Dining and Activity Costs

Dining is one of the highlights of any trip to the Amalfi Coast. Budget-conscious travellers can find local pizza for around €8–€12, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant may cost €20–€30 per person. To sample seafood and enjoy a multi-course meal, budget €50 or more per person. Activities like guided tours, boat rentals, and museum visits can range from €10 to €100, depending on the experience. Allocating around €100–€150 daily for food, transportation, and activities should allow for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Packing Essentials

Weather Considerations and Clothing

The Amalfi Coast’s climate varies by season. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild but can be rainy. For a summer visit, pack light and airy clothes, swimwear, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Spring and fall are cooler, so bringing layers like a light jacket and a sweater is advisable. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as many areas, especially Positano, require navigating steep steps.

Travel Necessities

Essentials for any Amalfi Coast trip include a universal power adapter, a portable phone charger, and a reusable water bottle. A good daypack for excursions is helpful for carrying water, snacks, sunscreen, and other day-trip essentials.

Health and Safety Essentials

For added convenience and safety, pack any prescription medications, a basic first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Pharmacies in Italy often have limited hours, so it’s wise to have these essentials on hand. Additionally, hand sanitiser and a small umbrella for sudden rain showers are useful additions.

Detailed 5 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Sorrento

Morning:

Arrive in Sorrento, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Sorrento is a charming town with stunning coastal views and serves as a convenient base. After checking into your accommodation, head to Piazza Tasso, the town’s main square, to enjoy a coffee and get your first taste of local life.

Afternoon:

Explore the historic centre, where narrow alleyways lead to quaint shops selling handcrafted goods, ceramics, and local limoncello. Visit the Church of San Francesco, known for its beautiful cloister, and then make your way to the Villa Comunale for panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

Evening:

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local trattoria and try Sorrento’s signature dishes, such as gnocchi alla Sorrentina (gnocchi with tomato sauce and mozzarella) and fresh seafood. End your night with a walk along the Marina Grande, where fishing boats dot the water, and the ambience is both rustic and romantic.

Day 2: Day Trip to Capri Island

Morning:

Catch an early ferry from Sorrento to Capri (about a 20-minute ride). Capri is known for its upscale vibe, designer boutiques, and beautiful natural scenery. Upon arrival, head to the Blue Grotto if the weather allows. This natural sea cave reflects an electric blue light and is one of the island’s most famous attractions.

Afternoon:

Take a scenic walk through Capri’s town centre and visit the Gardens of Augustus, a beautiful terraced garden offering views of the Faraglioni rock formations. Grab lunch at a local café, where you can enjoy fresh Caprese salad and pasta dishes unique to the island.

Evening:

Before heading back to Sorrento, take a chairlift ride up to Mount Solaro, the highest point on Capri, for panoramic views of the island and the sea. Return to Sorrento for a relaxing dinner.

Day 3: Positano and Amalfi Town

Morning in Positano:

Start early and take a bus or ferry to Positano, often regarded as the jewel of the Amalfi Coast. Positano’s colourful cliffside buildings and narrow winding streets make it one of the most picturesque towns in Italy. Begin your day at Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach, where you can enjoy the sun or dip in the clear waters.

Afternoon:

Spend some time exploring the town’s chic boutiques and art galleries. Positano is famous for its handmade leather sandals and stylish beachwear. Don’t miss the Santa Maria Assunta Church, with its stunning dome and Byzantine icon of the Black Madonna.

Late Afternoon in Amalfi:

Next, travel to Amalfi, another iconic coastal town. Here, visit the stunning Amalfi Cathedral, with its grand staircase and striking facade. Stroll along the harbour and sample limoncello from a local producer. Amalfi is also a great place to enjoy gelato while watching the sunset.

Evening:

Enjoy a seafood dinner at a restaurant near the water. The Amalfi Coast is known for its fresh fish and pasta dishes, so try local specialties like scialatielli ai frutti di mare (a thick, handmade pasta with seafood).

Day 4: Ravello and Scenic Drive

Morning:

Start your day by travelling to Ravello, a peaceful town known for its gardens and spectacular vistas. Begin at Villa Rufolo, where you’ll find beautifully manicured gardens and one of the best views on the coast. Ravello is also famous for its music festivals, so if you’re visiting in summer, check if there’s a concert at the gardens.

Afternoon:

Next, head to Villa Cimbrone, a historic villa with landscaped gardens and a viewpoint known as the “Terrace of Infinity.” The sight of the coastline from this terrace is breathtaking and a favourite among photographers.

Evening:

After enjoying Ravello, take a scenic drive back to Sorrento. Make stops at viewpoints along the way, such as those overlooking Praiano, where you can capture stunning photos of the coastline. For dinner, enjoy one last meal in Sorrento.

Day 5: Departure from Naples

Morning in Sorrento:

On your final day, take a leisurely morning to enjoy Sorrento before you leave. You can wander the historic centre once more, pick up souvenirs, or relax with a coffee overlooking the bay. If you have extra time, consider a quick stop at Museo Correale, which showcases local art and ancient artifacts.

Travel to Naples for Departure

Take a train or private transfer to Naples, where you can explore for a few hours if your departure time allows. Naples has its unique charm and is famous for its Neapolitan pizza, so treat yourself to a slice before heading to the airport or train station for your departure.

Some Variations of the 5 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary

What to Do If You Have 4 Days

If you’re short on time, you can still experience the best of the Amalfi Coast in four days by adjusting the itinerary. Skip either the Capri day trip or the Ravello visit to condense your schedule. Focus on Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, ensuring you experience the highlights without rushing.

What to Do If You Have 6 Days

With an extra day, you could explore Pompeii, easily accessible from Sorrento. This day trip allows you to experience a completely different side of Italian history. Alternatively, use the extra day to relax on the beach in Positano or take another day trip to explore lesser-known coastal towns like Praiano or Furore.

Where to Stay during this 5 day Amalfi Coast Itinerary?

Best Areas: Positano, Amalfi, and Sorrento

• Positano: Ideal for travellers seeking a romantic getaway. The views are stunning, and it’s filled with chic boutiques and excellent restaurants.
• Amalfi: A more central location with historical sites and easy access to other towns. Great for first-time visitors who want a balanced experience of beach and history.
• Sorrento: Convenient and affordable, Sorrento makes an excellent base for exploring the coast with plenty of dining and accommodation options.

Click here to book your favourite stay at the Amalfi Coast

Recommended Accommodations by Budget

• Budget: Hostel Brikette (Positano), Ulisse Deluxe Hostel (Sorrento)
• Mid-Range: Hotel Il Nido (Sorrento), Villa Rina (Amalfi)
• Luxury: Le Sirenuse (Positano), Santa Caterina Hotel (Amalfi)

Packing Tips

1. For Day Trips: Small backpack, water bottle, phone charger, and quick-dry towel.
2. Essentials: Comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
3. Other Considerations: Weather-appropriate clothing (light layers for fall), medications, camera, and power adapter.

Conclusion

Visiting the Amalfi Coast is like stepping into a postcard, with each town offering its unique blend of beauty, history, and charm. This 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary is crafted to give first-time visitors a taste of everything that makes this region so beloved—from the stunning cliffside vistas of Positano and the historic grandeur of Amalfi to the peaceful gardens of Ravello and the bustling streets of Sorrento. With thoughtful planning and a sense of adventure, you’ll discover a place that feels both timeless and magical, leaving you with unforgettable memories and, quite possibly, a longing to return. Whether you have five days, four, or even six, the Amalfi Coast promises an experience as vibrant and captivating as its famous sunsets over the Tyrrhenian Sea. Buon viaggio!

FAQs

More related content on Travel Guide and Itineraries

Brazil Itinerary 2-Weeks – An Ultimate Guide

Austria Itinerary for 7 days – From Alpine Peaks to Stunning Vienna Streets

Ultimate Guide to a 5 Day Grand Canyon Itinerary: Explore, Hike, and Discover

Alaska Itinerary for 10 days: Exploring the Last Frontier

5 Day Nova Scotia Itinerary: Ultimate Coastal Drives, Lighthouses, and More

4 Day Dubai Itinerary – From Skyscrapers to Desert Adventures

Portugal 7 Day Itinerary: Discover the Charm from Lisbon to Porto

Delhi 3 Day Itinerary: Experience India’s Historic Capital

Washington Itinerary for 7 Days: Discover the Best of the Pacific Northwest

The Ultimate 2 Week Mexico Itinerary: Hidden Gems, Beaches & Culture You cannot Miss!