Looking for the perfect Amalfi Coast 5 day itinerary to explore coastal towns, and cities? Look no further, I got you covered.
It was almost 10 years ago since I visited Italy, and I am already counting down to the next time. The Amalfi coast is a beautiful region with astonishing views. This coastal region is one of the most gorgeous and unique beach destinations in the world.
Planning for an epic Amalfi Coast 5 day itinerary
Positano, Amalfi and Salerno are the most visited places on the coast, and it attracts thousands of visitors every year. Despite its popularity, the region of Amalfi has remained authentic and is even on the list of Unesco World heritage sites. The narrow streets do not always make it easy to get to your next destination, but the beautiful views and beaches will make you forget the traffic jams.
With this 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary I take you to all the must-sees along the Amalfi coast, the ruins of Pompeii and Naples. I point out the places that you absolutely must visit as well as the best restaurants in the region.
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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE AMALFI COAST?
The best time to visit the Amalfi coast is during the spring and autumn seasons. May and September are the best months to visit the region as you escape the crowded and hot summer months, while still enjoying a nice Mediterranean climate.
Are you traveling on a budget? Then you can also visit the Amalfi coast during the winter months but bear in mind that many bars and restaurants will be closed during this period.
TIPS FOR VISITING DURING PEAK SEASONS
- Book your flights and hotels well in advance. The region is very popular among national and international tourists which results in fairly expensive accommodations. Italians are particularly known to be fond of being a tourist in their own country, so prices are even at the higher end, during the off season
- You can also book your day trips like Pompeii online and in advance to purchase tickets to avoid long queues.
- Book a small rental car so that you can easily maneuver through the many narrow streets.
HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU NEED TO VISIT THE AMALFI COAST? IS 5 DAYS IN AMALFI COAST ENOUGH?
I advise you to stay at least five days along this beautiful coast, so you can visit all the cities and have enough time to do some shopping and enjoy the beaches. In addition, you can explore historical sites like the ruins of Pompeii or go hiking to the top of the Vesuvius.
HOW TO GET TO THE AMALFI COAST?
The nearest metro city to the Amalfi Coast is Naples. Located in southern Italy, Naples International Airport welcomes international guests from all over the world, including flights from the United States. Travelers can reach the Amalfi Coast from Naples by train or drive/car rental.
Trains depart from Naples to Sorrento, Salerno or Vietri sul Mare. From there, you can ride a bus to get to other towns. If you follow the itinerary below, you will check off some of the precious gems in the Amalfi, and also get sightseeing time in Naples, and more.
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DAY 1 OF AMALFI COAST 5 DAY ITINERARY: SALERNO
Salerno is a coastal port in the south-east of the Italian Amalfi coast. Although the region is known as jetsetters paradise, many tourists visit this region for its beautiful beaches, nature and authentic food like Italian charcuterie boards.
Being a coastal city, Salerno was the site of Allied Landings during the Invasion of Italy. Today, it is a cultural centre with a ton of historic churches, relics and gardens.
I recommend spending one full day here to explore the Salerno Cathedral, Parco Naturale Diecimare, and many museums. The Salerno Cathedral dates back to the year 1085, and is the main church in the city. It is dedicated to Saint Matthew, whose relics are located inside the crypt.
Another must visit attraction is the Parco Naturale Diecimare which is a wildlife and safari park. Spend time hiking, or walking through and enjoying its landscape.
If you have some time on your hand, and love to explore ruins do pay a visit to Paestum – it is home to three ancient Greek temples (Paestum, Templi, the Museo Archeologico Provinciale). Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the ruins.
In the late afternoon, stroll through the beautiful Minerva garden. For a delicious dinner you can go to Osteria Dedicato a Mio Padre.
Find the best hotels for the Amalfi Coast here.
DAY 2 AMALFI COAST 5 DAY ITINERARY: AMALFI AND POSITANO
Amalfi is the most visited town along the Amalfi Coast. The city is known for its lemons and limoncello liqueur.
In Amalfi, visit the beautiful Amalfi Cathedral. The cathedral is dedicated to the Apostle Saint Andrew, and its stunning intricate details of the exterior and interiors are a visual treat for many traveling to Italy.
Along with the cathedral, the town has picturesque streets with a gorgeous mountain backdrop, making Amalfi ever so pretty. Do remember to stop on the way to Positano at Fiordo Di Furore, for a wonderful Instagram photo!
20 minutes from Amalfi is the beautiful village of Positano. You can get there by bus or by ferry. Keep in mind that Positano is filled with stairs, and so you will have to do a lot of walking to explore the town.
Or you can just choose to relax by the beach. Yes, one of the things that makes Positano so unique are the beach clubs built on the docks in the water. You will have to pay to use a beach chair. This price is between 10 and 25 euros per day depending on the location and facilities. It is a nice way to enjoy a day at the beach, and by paying a little more, you get a comfortable lounge, clean toilets and a bar service. Believe me when I say you will want to enjoy a Spritz in this setting. Arienzo Beach Club is recommended.
You can stay in Amalfi town, and then take day trips to visit all the nearby areas.
Find the best hotels for the Amalfi Coast here.
DAY 3 AMALFI COAST 5 DAY ITINERARY: SORRENTO
The old town of Sorrento is perched high on a cliffside just an hour’s drive out of Naples. With its beautiful beaches and spectacular views, many shops, intriguing culture, and history, Sorrento has everything to offer for the perfect summer vacation in Italy.
Piazza Tasso is the central square of Sorrento and is one of the most visited sites in town.
If you have had enough of beaches, you can indulge in historic sightseeing, and enjoy some stunning views. Take a walk through Vallone Dei Mulini Di Sorrento. Vallone Dei Mulini Di Sorrento is a valley park filled with ruins (sawmill, rivers and unique flora).
Another must visit is the Marina Grande. At the Marina you will find the best seafood restaurants in a romantic setting between the boats. You can also take a boat tour from the marina here, to see the Grotta Azzurra – a blue grotto known for its electric blue watercolor. A boat tour is a nice way to see more of the island, in a comfortable relaxed way!
Definitely go for a bite to eat at Porto a Marina, this family restaurant is run by 5 brothers and their sister. The brothers go out fishing every day and the sister prepares the catch of the day in the evening!
Find the best hotels for the Amalfi Coast here.
DAY 4 AMALFI COAST ITINERARY 5 DAYS: POMPEII ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK
If you want to interrupt your beach days, you should definitely stop in Pompeii. The Roman city of Pompeii is one of the most famous and fascinating archaeological cities in the world.
Pompeii lies at the foot of Mount Vesuvius. The volcano that erupted here 79 AD engulfed the entire city into ash and pumice-stone. In the later years, with archaeological excavations, and restoration work, the site was open for tourists.
The entrance for the park is just under 20 euros per person and there are plenty of car parking lots in the area. You can book a skip the line ticket here.
If you are not driving, you can use public transportation – Circumvesuviana train departs from Naples or Sorrento to take you to the Pompeii Scavia train station. It takes about 30 minutes from either city.
You can also book a guided day tour to Pompeii from Naples or Sorrento. Book a tour here.
Depending on how long you want to walk around, you need to take into account to spend 3 hours to an entire day in this beautifully reserved ancient town. Don’t forget to take plenty of water and sun lotion with you, especially during summer. You can also relax at a cafe located inside the park for a break.
It is important to note that the ruins of Pompeii cover a large 44 square hectares, and you can only visit a few of the highlights on a half day. Most popular attractions of visit inside the park include the museum – Antiquarian, columns at the Forum, Temple of Isis, House of Menander and the well-preserved amphitheatre.
Find the best hotels for the Amalfi Coast here.
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DAY 5 AMALFI COAST ITINERARY 5 DAYS: NAPLES
End your Amalfi Coast 5 day itinerary by setting aside time for the city of Naples.
There is an Italian saying that Rome is the heart of Italy, but Naples is the soul of the country. Naples is a chaotic but wonderful city where you can shop, eat the best pizza in the country and drink the tastiest coffee.
There are quite a lot of things to do in and around Naples. If you fancy a hike, put on your walking shoes and climb the Vesuvius!
The view of Vesuvius is visible from the city, and when you reach the top of the volcano at 1281 meters you will be mesmerized by beautiful views over the coastal region of Italy. Do remember to take enough water and sunscreen with you. And don’t forget to drag along a sweater for when you arrived at the top of the volcano.
Not into hikes? Then go sightseeing at the city’s iconic cathedral, the Duomo di San Gennaro. The cathedral is well-known for its beautiful frescos inside, so do make it a point to visit. Naples is also a nice metropolis to go shopping or hang out at an Italian cafe.
Grand Caffè Gambrinus is one of the oldest and nicest coffee bars in Naples.
For an aperitif you can go to Officina followed by a delicious dinner at Mimi Alla Ferrovia, which is highly recommended for its pure classic Italian cuisine.
If you have additional time on your hands, add the Royal Palace and Castel Nuovo (13th-century castle) to your Naples trip.
Find the best hotels for the Amalfi Coast here.
AFTER AMALFI COAST 5 DAY ITINERARY: MORE ITALY TRAVEL
Have more than 5 days on the Amalfi Coast? You can add one day or two exploring the Capri Island or Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone and other attractions in Ravello. You can also extend your stay by exploring more of Naples.
Naples is also a perfect gate way to visit more of Italy. Popular connections from Naples include Bari, and the capital city of Rome, in the north. From Rome, the Italian Riviera with the beautiful Cinque Terre is not far away. As Naples has an international airport, you can fly back home from the city too.
WHAT TO PACK FOR AMALFI COAST ITINERARY 5 DAYS
Because you are visiting such a gorgeous destination, you must pack right. Here is tried and tested packing list for the Amalfi Coast,
- Swimwear – Carry the prettiest swimsuits with you. Add a sarong, or a kimono to protect from the heat, as you relax
- Sunglass – A must accessory
- Beach Accessories – Pack beach essentials like mat, a book or Kindle, sunglasses, sun cream all in a nice tote
- Flipflops
- Reusable water bottle with filter
- Suncream
- Medications (prescriptions, motion sickness meds)
- Cotton clothes – Pack linen or cotton woven dresses, tops and pants
- Comfortable walking/hiking shoes
- And don’t forget your camera!
We hope you found this post useful in planning your Amalfi Coast gateway. If you have any questions, ask away!
PIN: ULTIMATE AMALFI COAST 5 DAY ITINERARY
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