The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline of Italy and the world.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site during the last years of the 20th century, this region manages to leave anyone speechless, owing to its stunning natural beauty and rich history.
If you love the sea, sunsets, and nature, this place is a must-visit destination.
This article includes a 4-day itinerary for the Amalfi Coast encompassing the villages and most fascinating places you can visit during a stay in this incredible part of Italy.
The itinerary is designed for those who plan to visit the Coast from North to South, however, if you would like to start the tour from the southern part, you can still read this article beginning with the places mentioned last.
Amalfi Coast 4 days itinerary at a glance:
- Day 1: Sorrento
- Day 2: Capri
- Day 3: Positano
- Day 4: Amalfi
DAY 1 Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Sorrento
We begin with a town that, located just outside the Amalfi Coast, but given its proximity is a must-see destination on this tour: Sorrento.
Sorrento, a renowned resort town since ancient times, stands on a tuff terrace that overlooks the Gulf of Naples. It is the most well-known town on the Sorrento Coast and charms visitors with:
- breathtaking views
- the landscape of gardens and citrus groves
- marinas
- charming historic center
- interesting historical and religious architecture
- traditional crafts of inlaid woodwork and lace-making.
The Municipal Villa
A monumental complex that contains within it the Cloister and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi.
Here, in addition to visiting these two beautiful attractions, it is also possible to admire a breathtaking view.
Inside the villa, in fact, there is also a terrace from where one can enjoy a beautiful view overlooking the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius.
There is also an archaeological museum in the complex where ancient artifacts found in the area are kept.
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi
The Church of St. Francis of Assisi dates back to the 14th century and is adjacent to the 14th-century cloister.
Despite undergoing several restorations over the years, the structure has retained its stunning beauty.
Inside you can see several statues, including those of St. Rita of Cascia, St. Antonio of Padua, and St. Francis of Assisi.
In addition to these wonderful sculptures, the church also contains a beautiful painting depicting the image of the Virgin Mary and pregnant Magdalene.
Correale Museum
The Correale Museum, hosted in an 18th-century villa, is known as “the most beautiful provincial museum in Italy.”
Its structure is developed on three floors: on the ground floor, one can find a vast collection of volumes ranging in various genres.
On the second floor is a collection of paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries. In another room, also on the same floor, there is a room named the ‘Hall of Mirrors,’ which features white and gold furniture.
On the second and third floors are housed, respectively, a collection of frescoes depicting still life and landscapes and a collection of porcelain dated between the 18th and 19th centuries.
Vallone dei Mulini – Valley of the Mills
The Valley of the Mills, on the other hand, is a valley that arose as a result of an eruption of the Campi Flegrei.
The name is due to the presence of seventeenth-century mills for grain processing.
It is a now abandoned and inaccessible valley that fascinates any tourist thanks to the green vegetation that has developed over the centuries.
As already mentioned, it is now no longer possible to access the valley, however, it can be admired and photographed from the top of Tasso Square.
Visiting these places takes about a day, so having arrived at this point, you have to decide whether to have dinner in Sorrento or to eat in the next village: Positano.
In both cases you will eat very well; we have selected a couple of typical restaurants in these places, where you can enjoy seafood specialties: to be on the safe side, Ristorante Bagni Delfino in Sorrento represents one of the best choices. Besides seafood, consider trying the popular pasta or gnocchi alla sorrentina, topped with tomato sauce and local mozzarella cheese.
In Positano instead, you cannot miss eating at the restaurant Adamo ed Eva.
Tip for souvenirs:
Before leaving this beautiful place, you cannot fail to stop at one of the many shops in town to buy the famous Sorrento limoncello: a real treat for liquor lovers.
Sorrento is also one of the best cities in Italy to visit at Christmas time, thanks to the light sculpture show.
Day 2: Capri and Anacapri
From Sorrento, you can take a ferry to one of Italy’s most picturesque small islands, Capri.
Once on the island, explore the two beautiful villages of Capri and Anacapri.
Once you arrive at the port, take a funicular up to Capri town. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Anacapri.
What to see in Capri:
- Piazza Umberto I: Also known as the “Piazzetta,” this is the main square in Capri town. It’s a great place to people-watch and enjoy a coffee or gelato.
- Gardens of Augustus: These beautiful gardens offer panoramic views of the sea and the famous Faraglioni rock formations.
- Marina Piccola: This small beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
What to see in Anacapri:
- Villa San Michele: This historic villa was built by the Swedish physician and author Axel Munthe in the late 19th century. It offers stunning views of the island and the Bay of Naples. The villa is today a museum.
- Monte Solaro: This is the highest point on the island, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. You can reach the summit by chairlift or on foot.
- Blue Grotto: This natural sea cave is one of the most famous attractions on the island. You can take a boat tour to see the blue waters and the unique rock formations.
- Shopping: Capri is known for its high-end fashion and luxury goods, so be sure to explore the many boutiques and shops in both Capri and Anacapri.
- Dining: Capri is also known for its delicious cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as Caprese salad or seafood pasta.
With these activities, you can easily fill a day in Capri and Anacapri. Be sure to take your time and enjoy the beauty of this stunning
Day 3 – 4 days Amalfi Coast Itinerary: Positano
Just 14 kilometers away from Sorrento, overlooking the Gulf of Salerno, we find Positano, one of the world’s most beautiful and captivating destinations.
This town has the characteristic of being built on terraces that descend from the hinterland towards the sea and offer breathtaking views.
Due to its unique topography, many have given it the nickname “vertical town.”
Positano is a beautiful village both to visit and to admire from a distance … perhaps aboard a boat while on an excursion.
The main attractions here are
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta
A classical-style building adorned with gilded Ionic capitals, this church is easily spotted from anywhere in the village thanks to its dome.
The latter, thanks to its colorful majolica tiles, is the main feature of the building.
Inside Church Santa Maria Assunta is kept the painting of the Black Madonna and Child, a work that, according to an ancient legend, caused the town of Positano to be given this name.
Saracen Towers
The Saracen Towers are ancient constructions that stand sheer above the sea.
Their distinguishing feature is their sturdiness: the purpose for which they were built was to be lookout posts against invasions from the sea, so they had to be able to withstand heavy attacks.
Today, these towers are a must-visit for anyone traveling to Positano. Some of these buildings have even been converted into restaurants and hotels.
Historic Center and Marina Grande Beach
The historic center and Marina Grande Beach are two other essential destinations in Positano.
The first is characterized by narrow alleys typical of the small towns of the Amalfi Coast: filled with quaint shops selling souvenirs and local products, such as the famous Limoncello.
The second, on the other hand, is the largest beach in Positano. A very crowded destination, especially in summer, it allows you to relax and take a swim in the crystal clear waters.
Day 4 – Amalfi
After the vertical city, continue the tour to the town for which the Amalfi Coast is named: Amalfi.
Probably the arrival time in town will coincide with dinner time. Here are a few small restaurants that serve the area’s famous seafood dishes:
- Da Ciccio Cielo Mare e Terra
- Tarì Art Restaurant.
What to Do in Amalfi After Dinner:
For those who want to continue the fun-filled evening, you can opt for “L’Africana.” This is one of the best-known discos in the area, and often if you don’t make a reservation you will struggle to find a spot.
Alternatively, those seeking a more relaxed evening with cocktails can visit Sea Waves Bar.
St. Andrew’s Cathedral and Cloisters
Located in the heart of the historic center, Amalfi Cathedral is one of the city’s main attractions and one of the best landmarks to see in Italy.
The church, dedicated to St. Andrew, was built in the 9th century and is a perfect example of Arab-Norman architecture.
Inside the cathedral, you can admire many valuable works of art, such as the white marble baptistery and the 13th-century wooden crucifix.
Amalfi Cathedral is also famous for its mosaic facade, which depicts scenes from the Bible and the life of St. Andrew.
In addition to its architectural beauty, Amalfi Cathedral is also home to the Paradise Cloister, one of the city’s most striking sights.
The Paradise Cloister, built in the 12th century, is renowned for its mosaics depicting Paradise and its hanging garden, which features a variety of plants and flowers.
Inside the cloister, you can admire numerous works of art, such as the famous “Tau,” an ancient Christian symbol in white marble, and the “Hall of the Barons,” which houses frescoes from the 13th century.
Paper Museum
The Amalfi Paper Museum is a must-see for those who want to discover the history of the city’s paper production.
The museum houses the oldest paper mill in Europe.
This facility is still in operation and here you can watch demonstrations of processing this material.
Thanks to the visit, you will get an overview of the history of papermaking in Amalfi and trace technological advances from the Middle Ages to the present day through a series of historical artifacts and documents.
During the guided tour, the papermaking technique is explained. For a small extra fee, there is also the opportunity to try making a sheet (needing long drying, a ready-made sheet is given as a souvenir on the way out). A must-visit if you’re traveling to Amalfi with children.
Break – Lunch in Amalfi
Since for dinner the previous day we have selected two restaurants that prepare seafood specialties typical of the area, for lunch, we thought we would recommend another dish that makes Italian culinary culture famous all over the world: pizza.
For a delicious pizza with a stunning view, head to ‘La Terrazza di Giuliana,’ one of the best pizzerias in Amalfi.
Emerald Grotto
The Emerald Grotto is one of Italy’s most stunning natural attractions.
It is a sea cave located a few kilometers off the coast of Amalfi and can be reached by boat or raft.
The cave is famous for its crystal clear water, which takes on a deep blue hue, and for its stalactites and stalagmites, which create a breathtaking spectacle.
Inside the cavern, it is possible to go for a swim or simply admire the beauty of the place.
This is an ideal destination for those who love nature and want to spend a day outdoors, immersed in the beauty of the sea.
It is also a must for diving lovers, who can admire the marine flora and fauna of the Mediterranean here.
State Reserve Valle delle Ferriere
The Valle delle Ferriere is another must-see attraction in Amalfi.
It is a valley located a few kilometers from the town, where there are numerous waterfalls and hiking trails.
This place is famous for the ancient ironworks, which used hydraulic power to work the iron (today the structure is still in operation).
You can visit the ironworks and find out how iron was crafted in medieval times.
Surrounded by nature, the Valle delle Ferriere is the perfect destination for those seeking a day outdoors, complete with hiking trails and waterfalls. Visitors can even take a refreshing swim in the falls’ waters.
FAQs Amalfi Coast Itinerary 4 Days
What is the best time to visit Amalfi Coast?
In general, the best season to visit the Amalfi Coast is spring (March to June) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and the crowds are less than in the summer season. In summer (July to August), the Amalfi Coast is very crowded and prices are higher, but it is possible to enjoy the beaches and summer activities. However, even in winter, the Amalfi Coast has its charm, with its breathtaking scenery and local traditions.
How many days do you need in Amalfi Coast?
This really depends on the needs of each individual traveler or group.
Speaking from an Italian’s point of view, for a trip to a historically rich seaside location where travel is not very fast, I recommend at least one week up to two weeks.
How do I get around the Amalfi Coast?
The picturesque villages of the Amalfi Coast are connected by over 50 kilometers of winding coastal roads with stunning sea views.
Driving on this stretch of road demands full attention and can make it difficult to fully appreciate the stunning views. During the summer months, heavy traffic and scorching heat can make driving along the Amalfi Coast unpleasant.
Fortunately, there are many scenic spots where you can stop for refreshments and photos. However, during peak season, these spots can be crowded with other travelers.
One option for avoiding traffic and parking issues is to travel by scooter.
While Sita Bus public buses connect the main locations on the Amalfi Coast, they are still subject to road traffic and can be crowded.
Then the most efficient way to get around the Amalfi Coast is by ferries and hydrofoils that travel hourly and connect all the villages.
What is the average cost of a trip to the Amalfi Coast?
The fame of the place anticipates the answer.
You know you will spend a lot.
Booking an apartment in advance instead of a hotel can save you around 30 percent on accommodation and meal expenses.
Trying to be optimistic, you will spend from a minimum of €250 to a maximum of €500 per day for two people for a mid- to low-level trip.
What are the best hiking trails in Amalfi Coast?
The Path of the Gods is the best hiking trail you can take along Amalfi Coast.
This well-known hike, lasting around four hours, offers breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast and Capri throughout the journey.
The trail begins at Bomerano, a small village in Agerola, and ends in Nocelle with a slight downhill descent.
The Path of the Gods features two distinct environments: one with sparse vegetation and grassy pastures, and the other with dense Mediterranean scrub.
Late spring or early fall is the ideal time to undertake this hike. It is not recommended for children or those with vertigo due to some exposed sections along the way.
If you opt to hike in the summer, it’s essential to bring sun protection, and you might also consider descending the 300 steps to the stunning Arienzo Beach, which you’ll encounter on the route.
Nocelle is located in the upper part of Positano, and you can reach the historic center of Positano by descending 1,500 steps from Nocelle. To return, take the bus back to the starting point of the hike.
Tips:
If you’re traveling by car, park in Agerola. If you’re moving around by train instead, take a bus to Agerola from Amalfi. While in Agerola, be sure to shop for a picnic lunch, including local specialties like mozzarella fiordilatte cheese and focaccia.
Can you do a day trip to Capri from Amalfi Coast?
You can reach Capri by ferry from Amalfi from mid-July to about mid-October at a cost of €25 and the trip takes about an hour.
In other months, however, you have to take a ferry from Sorrento to Capri at a cost of €20 and the trip takes half an hour.
Final thoughts: 4 days Amalfi Coast itinerary
The Amalfi Coast is a dream destination that you will want to visit at least once in your lifetime. It is also one of the most expensive destinations in Italy and most crowded during the high season, which coincides with the summer months from May to September.
The Amalfi Coast would deserve its own trip, but if you want to add it to the stops on an itinerary in Italy, devote at least 4 days to it, although a full week would be better.
That way you will have more opportunities to have authentic local experiences and to find the resort that suits you better.
Make sure you note down most of my recommendations to plan the perfect 4 days in Amalfi Coast itinerary.
