4-Day Amalfi Coast itinerary

Picture yourself stretched out on a picture-perfect beach, sipping limoncello with the azure Mediterranean Sea spread before you. How about strolling epic coastal paths speckled by candy-hued eateries serving fresh seafood and crisp local wine? Imagine boarding a boat to transfer to your new favourite Italian town as the sun shines down. All this awaits on Italy’s enchanting Amalfi Coast, as revealed in the 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary shared right below.

Is 4 days enough for the Amalfi Coast?

Full disclosure: the Amalfi Coast is one of my favorite areas of Italy, first visited on a day trip from Naples — an intoxicating city that’s loaded with unusual things to do, and soon had me under its spell.

That first experience inspired a second trip to the Amalfi Coast, during which I devoted a week to the region. Even then, I didn’t get to see and do everything on my wish-list.

That said, the 4-day Amalfi Coast itinerary detailed below has been curated to condense the best of the region into a shorter timeframe through covering pretty Positano, Amalfi Town and Ravelllo, plus the chance to hike the Path of the Gods. 

So, in short, with careful planning, 4 days can be enough time to enjoy the Amalfi Coast, which happens to be among the most beautiful places in Italy.

Still undecided about your vacation duration, or where to visit in Italy? If you fancy doing a deeper dive into Rome, you could combine this 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary with our 7 days in Italy itinerary, which kicks off with two nights in the Eternal City. 

Alternatively, if you’re looking to visit Italy for longer than 7 days, see our 10 days in Italy itinerary, 14 days in Italy itinerary, North Italy itinerary, and Tuscan itinerary.

Countrywide inspiration can be gleaned from browsing all our Italy itineraries, or talking to our local Italy experts.

Day 1: Arrive in Positano and explore

With a dramatic cliffside setting and pastel-colored buildings that appear to be cascading towards the sea, Positano is oft-hailed the jewel of the Amalfi Coast.

If you’re traveling from Naples, take a train to Sorrento, followed by bus, taxi or private transfer to Positano. This will take around 1.5–2 hours.

After arriving and checking into your accommodation, head out to start exploring this regional treasure. 

Loaded with boutiques, galleries and cafes, Via dei Mulini — the town’s main pedestrian street — is a great place start. 

Into historic architecture? Head to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, which is famed for its iconic dome of majolica tiles and Byzantine Black Madonna.

Come the afternoon, take your pick from soaking up the busier vibe of Spiaggia Grande — Positano’s main beach — or walk to the quieter Fornillo Beach.

That evening, enjoy a romantic dinner, preferably at a cliff-top restaurant that’s well-sited for sublime sunset views.

Where to stay

Positano is blessed with a bounty of beautiful places to stay for all budgets, but you’ll want book early if you’re planning to visit in the summer high season.

Looking for luxury? Consider staying in Le Sirenuse — a boutique hotel that offers stunning views and impeccable service, plus an oyster bar and Michelin-starred restaurant.

Meanwhile, Hotel Poseidon is a great mid-price option, with its terrace cocktail bar and restaurant boasting truly remarkable views over town.

Day 2: Hike the Path of the Gods on a day trip

On day two, devote time to experiencing the wonders of the Path of the Gods — a hiking route that sure lives up to its lofty name.

To access the trailhead, take a bus from Positano to Nocelle. Located above Positano, this little village is the most convenient starting point for the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) hike. 

After arriving (the bus typically takes around 30 minutes), it’s time to set off along a moderately challenging route that offers panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast. Think dramatic cliffs, verdant valleys and glimpses of the shimmering sea. 

After your hike, enjoy lunch in Nocelle before returning to Positano. Ristorante Santa Croce, for example, serves excellent local food and wonderful coastal views.

Day 3: Transfer to historic Amalfi Town

Located approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) east of Positano, Amalfi Town’s beauty awaits on day 3 of this 4-day Amalfi Coast itinerary.

One of the most historically significant — and picturesque — towns on the Amalfi Coast, it offers visitors a satisfying mix of cultural heritage, architectural beauty and coastal magic.

How to get from Positano to Amalfi Town

In exciting news, the best way to get from Positano to Amalfi Town is by ferry,— a fabulous 30-minute voyage that serves spectacular scenery. 

Note that the ferry only operates seasonally from late spring to early autumn. If you’re traveling outside the ferry’s operating period, you can take an hour-long bus ride.

After checking into your accommodation, start exploring from Piazza Duomo, which sits in the heart of Amalfi Town.

Into history? Be sure to visit the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi) — a wonderful Romanesque structure with a striking staircase and ornate interior.

While wandering the charming little streets, keep an eye out for artisan shops selling locally products, most notably handmade paper from the historic Amatruda Paper Mill.

Come dusk, head to Amalfi Marina to watch fishing boats return as the sun sets, ahead of dining on freshly caught seafood in a local taverna.

Where to stay

Just steps from the Piazza Duomo, Amalfi’s charming Hotel Lidomare is a romantic — and affordable — central option.

Meanwhile, mid-range Hotel Marina Riviera offers modern rooms and a sea-view terrace.

Looking to splash out and stay in style? It doesn’t get better than the 5-star cliffside Hotel Santa Caterina, which also offers private beach access.

Day 4: Transfer to romantic Ravelllo

Perched high above the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is splendid place to conclude this 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary.

How to get from Amalfi Town to Ravello

Take a 20-minute bus or hop in a taxi from Amalfi Town to Ravello — a ride that delivers marvellous views of terraced vineyards and lemon groves.

On arrival, make your first sight-seeing stop at Villa Rufolo — a 13th-century estate that’s known for its magnificent gardens and coastal views.

A hands-down highlight of Ravello. the terraces here inspired Wagner’s opera Parsifal.

Villa Cimbrone is another must-visit, with its aptly named Infinity Terrace offering one of the most breath-taking panoramas in all Italy, which is really saying something. 

Finally, to dine in memorably fancy style before wrapping up your trip, head to the Michelin-starred Rossellinis. Or, for something more casual, Ravello boasts a number of quality family-run trattorias.

Where to stay

For an affordable stay with glorious gardens and views, try Al Borgo Torello. Located 2km from the center of town, it takes around 20 minutes to walk to Piazza Duomo, the main square.

If you'd prefer something more central, check out elegant Hotel Villa Fraulo — a fine 4-star that was formerly the residence of the noble Cortese family.

Celebrating something special? Consider the luxurious Belmond Hotel Caruso. Perched on a cliff overlooking the coast, this former 11th-century palace offers unparalleled views and a spectacular infinity pool.

Inspired to visit? Before booking your trip, arm yourself with tips on how to plan a trip to Italy, and browse all our Italy itineraries.

Not keen on planning? Contact our local experts to have them take care of every last detail.