How to Plan 7-Days on the Amalfi Coast: Best Itinerary and Things to Do
The Amalfi Coast is one of those places that stole my heart the moment I set foot there.
I remember standing in Positano, surrounded by colorful houses clinging to the cliffs, with the scent of lemons filling the air, and thinking, this is what paradise must feel like.
That first trip inspired my love for Italy and why I wanted to share the ultimate guide for a 7-day trip to the Amalfi Coast.
If you’re planning to explore this dreamy region, you’re in the right place.
Whether you’re into hiking, lounging on the beach, or discovering quaint towns, this itinerary will cover it all.
I’ll take you through every detail—where to stay, how to get around, and most importantly, the hidden gems I’ve discovered along the way.
This guide will help you plan your days efficiently so you can make the most of your week on the coast without feeling rushed.
From the best times to visit to practical tips and local favorites, I’ve packed this guide with all the info you’ll need for an unforgettable trip.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October).
These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices than the peak summer months.
The Amalfi Coast can get extremely crowded and hot in July and August, which might make exploring less enjoyable.
Spring is my favorite time to visit.
The flowers are in bloom, and the towns are starting to buzz with energy, but it’s still possible to find a quiet spot.
You’ll also catch some local festivals in May and June, which give you a glimpse into the region’s rich culture.
Fall, on the other hand, brings beautiful sunsets and mild weather, making it a great time for hiking and beach days without the summer crowds.
While summer is tempting with its beach-perfect weather, be prepared for busy beaches, packed restaurants, and inflated prices.
Winter, though quieter, can be cold and rainy, and many hotels and restaurants close for the season.
Getting to the Amalfi Coast
The main gateway to the Amalfi Coast is Naples, which is well connected to most major cities in Europe and beyond.
You can fly into Naples International Airport (Capodichino), and from there, the coast is about a 1.5-hour drive.
Getting from Naples to the Amalfi Coast offers a few options.
One of the easiest ways is by renting a car, which gives you flexibility.
However, be prepared for narrow, winding roads along the coast, and parking in towns like Positano or Amalfi can be challenging.
If you’re not comfortable driving, you can hire a private transfer or take a bus from Naples to Amalfi or Sorrento.
Public transport is another option, with buses running between Naples and the coastal towns.
There are also ferries from Naples and Sorrento, which I personally love—there’s nothing like arriving by boat, with the coastline rising dramatically out of the sea.
During my first visit, I opted to drive, but let me tell you, navigating those cliffside roads with Italian drivers zooming by was a white-knuckle experience.
On my next trip, I embraced the ferries and buses, which allowed me to relax and take in the views without worrying about parking.
Accommodation Options
Where you stay on the Amalfi Coast depends on your travel style and budget.
Each town has its own vibe, so you’ll want to choose based on what kind of experience you’re after.
Luxury Stays: If you’re looking to splurge, Ravello and Positano are home to some of the coast’s most luxurious hotels.
Ravello, perched high on the cliffs, offers stunning panoramic views and is known for its elegant, serene atmosphere.
I stayed at a gorgeous boutique hotel with an infinity pool that seemed to spill into the sea.
In Positano, you’ll find chic hotels with breathtaking views of the bay—perfect for honeymooners or anyone celebrating a special occasion.
Mid-Range Options: Amalfi and Praiano offer great mid-range accommodations.
Amalfi is the largest town on the coast and offers a good balance between price and location.
Staying here gives you easy access to restaurants, shops, and transportation options.
Praiano, located between Positano and Amalfi, is quieter and less touristy, making it ideal if you want to escape the crowds but still be close to the action.
Budget Accommodations: For those on a tighter budget, Sorrento is a popular choice.
While technically not on the Amalfi Coast, it’s just a short ferry or bus ride away, and accommodation tends to be more affordable.
I’ve stayed in Sorrento a couple of times, and it’s a great base for day trips along the coast.
A tip: If you’re traveling during the shoulder season, you can often find great deals at hotels that would be out of budget during the summer months.
And don’t be afraid to look at Airbnb or smaller bed-and-breakfasts, which can offer more personalized experiences.
7-Day Itinerary Overview
- Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation in Positano
After settling into your accommodation, spend the day wandering the charming streets of Positano.
Walk down to Spiaggia Grande Beach, where you can relax and take in the stunning coastal views.
In the evening, unwind with sunset cocktails at a cliffside bar.
Some of my favorite dining spots include La Sponda and Chez Black, both offering breathtaking views with delicious food.
- Day 2: Explore Positano and Surrounding Areas
Start your morning by climbing the steps to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta to admire its iconic dome and artwork.
For lunch, head to one of the beachfront restaurants and savor fresh seafood—Positano is known for its fantastic fish dishes.
In the afternoon, take a short trip to Praiano or consider a scenic boat tour to explore the coast from the water.
One of my favorite hidden spots in Positano is the Path of Lovers (Sentiero degli Innamorati)—it’s a short, easy walk offering some of the best photo opportunities with a more peaceful vibe than the bustling main streets.
- Day 3: Full Day in Amalfi Town
Spend your morning in Amalfi, starting with a visit to the stunning Amalfi Cathedral.
Its beautiful architecture and historical significance make it a must-see.
Afterward, explore the historic Paper Museum, where you can learn about Amalfi’s papermaking traditions.
Stop by a local trattoria for lunch and indulge in lemon-infused dishes—this region is famous for its lemons!
In the afternoon, take a walk along the Valle delle Ferriere trail, a scenic hike that winds through lush greenery and waterfalls.
Or, if you’re more in the mood to relax, head to one of Amalfi’s beaches for some sunbathing.
Before leaving Amalfi, don’t miss stopping by local shops for a bottle of limoncello. I always stock up here; it’s the perfect souvenir!
- Day 4: Day Trip to Ravello
On day four, take a short trip up to the hilltop town of Ravello.
Start your morning by visiting Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, both of which offer some of the most stunning views on the coast.
The gardens at Villa Cimbrone are particularly impressive, and I could spend hours wandering through them.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the town’s rich cultural scene.
If you’re visiting during the summer, you might catch one of Ravello’s world-famous classical music festivals, set against the backdrop of the beautiful Mediterranean views.
For dinner, return to Positano or Amalfi, depending on where you’re staying.
- Day 5: Capri Day Trip
Capri is a highlight of any Amalfi Coast trip, and day five is dedicated to this glamorous island.
Take the morning ferry from Positano to Capri and start your day by visiting the Blue Grotto, a magical sea cave with glowing blue water.
Afterward, explore the ruins of Villa Jovis, the former palace of Roman Emperor Tiberius, or relax in the Gardens of Augustus with panoramic views of the coastline.
For lunch, head to La Piazzetta, Capri’s famous main square, before exploring Anacapri in the afternoon.
I recommend taking the chairlift up to Monte Solaro, the highest point on the island, for breathtaking views.
In the evening, take the ferry back to Positano for a seafood dinner.
- Day 6: Beach Day and Hike the Path of the Gods
Day six is perfect for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Start your morning at one of Positano’s lesser-known beaches, like Fornillo or Arienzo.
These beaches are quieter and offer a more laid-back vibe compared to the busier Spiaggia Grande.
In the afternoon, lace up your hiking boots for the famous Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) hike.
This trail from Bomerano to Nocelle offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast.
It’s a challenging hike, but well worth it.
Personally, I found the views at every turn jaw-dropping, and the sense of accomplishment when reaching Nocelle was unbeatable. Make sure to bring plenty of water and a camera!
- Day 7: Sorrento or Pompeii
For your final day, you have two great options depending on your interests.
Option 1: Head to Sorrento, a bustling coastal town known for its historic center and lively marina.
Explore the narrow streets, stop by some local shops, and enjoy a final taste of Italian gelato while soaking in the views of the Bay of Naples.
Option 2: If you’re more into history, take a day trip to Pompeii, the ancient Roman city preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
You can easily spend a full day wandering through the well-preserved ruins, learning about life in the Roman Empire.
Wrap up your trip with a farewell dinner overlooking the coast.
One of my top picks is Il Tridente in Positano—it’s the perfect place to end your Amalfi Coast adventure.
Top Attractions and Hidden Gems
Positano’s beaches: One of the most iconic stops on the Amalfi Coast is Positano, and its two best beaches, Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo, offer a mix of lively atmosphere and more secluded, quiet spots.
Spiaggia Grande is the main beach, perfect for sunbathing and people-watching, while Fornillo is tucked away and less crowded—ideal for a more peaceful retreat.
Amalfi Cathedral: Heading over to Amalfi, you can’t miss the stunning Amalfi Cathedral.
This architectural gem, with its ornate façade and blend of Arab-Norman styles, stands proudly in the center of Amalfi.
Its interior is just as breathtaking, and the crypt below offers a unique glimpse into its history.
Nearby in Ravello, Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone are must-sees for their enchanting gardens and panoramic views of the coast as well.
I found Villa Cimbrone’s Terrace of Infinity particularly magical—it feels like you’re standing on the edge of the world, overlooking the glittering sea.
Capri’s Blue Grotto: Over on Capri, the famous Blue Grotto is a surreal experience.
This sea cave glows with an otherworldly blue light, and while it’s a tourist favorite, visiting during the early morning or late afternoon can help you avoid the crowds.
Be prepared for a boat ride into the cave, with entry fees around 14 euros. While Capri can get busy, it’s worth the visit, especially if you explore less crowded areas like Anacapri.
Off the beaten path: If you’re looking for some off-the-beaten-path gems, I highly recommend seeking out secret coves and quiet trails around Praiano and Furore Fjord.
There are so many tucked-away spots where you can enjoy the beauty of the Amalfi Coast without the tourist crowds. These lesser-known areas have become my favorite retreats.
Best Foods to Try
The Amalfi Coast is a food lover’s paradise, and no trip would be complete without trying its signature lemon delicacies.
Lemon Delicacies
Start with a refreshing lemon sorbet or sip on homemade limoncello—you’ll find it everywhere!
For dessert, the indulgent lemon cake (delizia al limone) offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Seafood Specialties
With its coastal location, seafood is fresh and plentiful.
Look out for seafood pasta dishes featuring clams, mussels, and shrimp.
The crispy fritto misto is another favorite, combining fried calamari, shrimp, and small fish for a delicious mix of textures and flavors.
Neapolitan Pizza
While pizza is synonymous with Naples, the Amalfi Coast boasts its fair share of amazing Neapolitan pizza.
With a thin, wood-fired crust and simple toppings like tomato, mozzarella, and basil, these pizzas are a local specialty that should be savored in one of the region’s cozy pizzerias.
Personal Recommendations
From my own experience, one of the best meals I had was in Ravello, where I enjoyed a fresh seafood risotto at a small, family-owned trattoria overlooking the sea.
Every bite was a reminder of why the Amalfi Coast is such a culinary treasure.
Transportation Around the Amalfi Coast
Getting around the Amalfi Coast can be a bit of an adventure.
Ferries are one of the easiest and most scenic ways to hop between towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Capri.
I found taking the ferry both efficient and relaxing, as it offers incredible views of the cliffs and turquoise waters. It’s especially convenient for day trips to Capri, where ferries run regularly.
For more flexibility, SITA buses operate throughout the region, connecting all the main towns.
While the bus routes are extensive, the narrow, winding cliffside roads can make the rides a little nerve-wracking at times, especially when they’re crowded.
But they’re a budget-friendly way to travel, and the views from the windows are unparalleled.
If you’re feeling adventurous, renting a car can give you the freedom to explore on your own schedule.
That said, driving along the coastal roads can be a bit of a challenge with the hairpin turns and limited parking in many towns.
But if you’re up for the drive, the reward is having access to hidden spots and villages that buses might not reach.
I personally loved the freedom of having a car, though it required some careful planning, especially with parking.
Another fun option is renting a boat.
Many companies offer private boat rentals or guided tours, allowing you to explore the coast at your own pace.
This is perfect if you want to discover secret beaches or simply enjoy a day out on the water.
While boat rentals can be a bit pricey, it’s one of the most memorable ways to see the Amalfi Coast—especially if you time it with the sunset.
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
Visit Major Sights Early or Late
Plan to visit popular spots like Positano and Amalfi either early in the morning or late afternoon.
This will give you more time to explore without being surrounded by large groups of tourists. Plus, the lighting for photos is often better during these hours.
Travel During Shoulder Season
Aim for travel in April-May or September-October.
During these months, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather without the summer rush, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
Explore Lesser-Known Areas
Avoid the busiest hubs by checking out quieter gems like Praiano and Atrani.
These towns offer the same breathtaking coastal views but with far fewer crowds.
You’ll have a more authentic, intimate experience exploring their hidden corners.
Conclusion, How to Plan 7-Days on the Amalfi Coast: Best Itinerary and Things to do
The Amalfi Coast is truly one of those magical places that you’ll remember forever.
From the winding roads and sun-soaked beaches to the incredible food and warm locals, it’s an experience like no other.
Take it slow, soak in the views, and embrace each moment.
Whether it’s enjoying a simple meal by the sea or wandering down a quiet path, the beauty of the Amalfi Coast will inspire and energize you.
And here’s my final tip—don’t stress about seeing everything.
Relax, savor the food, and let this stunning coastline work its charm on you.
