Taylor-Positano4

A woman enjoying her Amalfi Coast itinerary in Positano

An itinerary for Southern Italy is not complete without including the Amalfi Coast. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Amalfi Coast is a picturesque coastline on Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula. It is in the Campania region, near the city of Naples, and its breathtaking coastal road starts in the cliffside city of Sorrento and ends in the port city of Salerno. Overall, Amalfi Coast is a stunning and romantic area of Southern Italy that is filled with charming, hilltop villages; terraced vineyards; grand villas; lemon groves; natural wonders and delicious cuisine.

In September 2021, I did an unforgettable Southern Italy trip. I started my Italy travels in Rome with my family where we spent 2 nights in the capital city. From there, we made our way to Naples before spending 5 nights in Sorrento and along the Amalfi Coast as well as Capri. Towards the end of our family trip, we drove back up to Rome where we explored Vatican City and spent 1 more night before departing ways.

A woman at Salvatore's Fruit Stand in Positano, Amalfi Coast

While my family headed back home to New Jersey, I met up with Ashley of World to Wander and we spent 3 nights and 4 days in Puglia, which is located at the heel of the boot.

In this Southern Italy travel blog, discover the best Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days. In addition to the cities and villages along the Amalfi Coast, my family and I also explored Naples and did a memorable day trip to the island of Capri.

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like.


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Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days

How to Travel to the Amalfi Coast During a 5-Day Itinerary:

Views of Positano

Before I get into the details of how to get to and around the Amalfi Coast, I first want to discuss how I traveled to Southern Italy in general.

I took a flight from Newark Liberty International Airport to Rome Fiumicino – Leonardo da Vinci Airport with a layover in Lisbon. You can find affordable flights through Skyscanner.

Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days that includes the town of Amalfi

To get from Rome to Amalfi Coast, you can either take the train from Roma Termini to Sorrento Train Station or Salerno Train Station with a stop in Napoli Centrale/Garibaldi; take the bus from Rome Tiburtina Bus Station to Sorrento Bus Station or Salerno (Piazza Concordia) with stops at Naples (Metropark Centrale) and Pompeii or lastly, rent your own car.

After spending our first two nights in Rome, my family and I decided to rent our own vehicle from one of the rental car companies at Termini Station. One thing to note about renting a car in Italy (or anywhere in the European Union) is that you will need to have an international diver’s permit in addition to your regular license. I don’t know how the process works for every single country out there, but for U.S. residents, you could easily obtain one by going to your local AAA office.

Exploring the town of Amalfi during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

Once you are on the Amalfi Coast, you can either drive around to the different towns in your own car; take the local SITA bus from Sorrento; sail around via the Travelmar Ferry; hire a private driver or participate in a tour.

Because our itinerary during our 5 days on the Amalfi Coast had us visiting different villages and towns from Sorrento, it was easiest for us to drive our rental car around. Admittedly, it can be quite overwhelming driving the main road along the Amalfi Coast, so I recommend getting a compact vehicle, if you can! Having a smaller car is easier to maneuver around the narrow and windy roads of Europe. Unfortunately, since there was five of us, we had to get an SUV and it was more difficult driving around. We accomplished everything we wanted to see though!

Exploring the town of Atrani during 5 days on the Amalfi Coast itinerary

If you plan to base yourself in one of the smaller towns along the Amalfi Coast, like Positano, it is easier for you to take the local bus, since everything is closer in that vicinity. Depending on when you visit the Amalfi Coast, you can also take the ferry from either Positano, Amalfi, Minori, Maiori or Salerno. (Between the bus and ferry, it is significantly cheaper to take the bus, but not as convenient.)

Where to Stay on Amalfi Coast as You Follow a 5-Day Itinerary:

Enjoying the city of Sorrento during an Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days

Our Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days included us basing ourselves in the city of Sorrento and traveling to the smaller villages like Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, etc. from there.

I LOVED staying in Sorrento and believe it is the best place to base yourself during an Amalfi Coast road trip! Sorrento is the closest city from Naples and it is the most conveniently located of all the towns on the peninsula.

In addition, Sorrento has everything – renowned restaurants, beautiful hotels and rental properties, great shopping, an awesome beach and more!

The Amalfi Coast of Southern Italy

During our Amalfi itinerary, we stayed in an Airbnb in Sorrento Center, which was in a great walking distance to the heart of town and waterfront. Click here to book it! In general, if you are traveling with family or a group of friends (we were a group of 5), it is most convenient and cost efficient to stay at an Airbnb or Vrbo during your time in Southern Italy.

Regarding hotels and other accommodations, you can find great choices ranging from luxury to budget! Below are my personal recommendations for where to stay as you base yourself in Sorrento, Italy:

Luxury Accommodation: Maison La Minervetta

Boutique Accommodation: Palazzo Marziale

Mid-Budget Accommodation: Hotel Regina Sorrento

Budget Accommodation: Unconventional Sorrento Coast

Best 5-Day Naples and Amalfi Coast Itinerary:

Beautiful views of Positano on the Amalfi Coast

Day 1: Naples and Pompeii

Experience the Bustling City of Naples:

A woman exploring Naples during her Amalfi Coast itinerary

A 5-Day Amalfi Coast itinerary should include the cities of Naples and Pompeii since it makes for a great road trip stop from Rome to Sorrento. (It takes a little less than four hours to drive from Rome to Sorrento.) Discover the 10 best things to do in Naples!

The city of Naples

On our first day, we left Rome at around 9:30am and arrived in Naples around lunchtime. Please note that if you plan to drive to Naples like we did, it is best that you find a parking lot or garage that isn’t in the heart of the city. We parked at a paid lot closer to the waterfront and it was easy to go in and out. The city of Naples has narrow streets that are extremely busy, so it is best that you avoid driving them no matter what type of vehicle you have.

Savor the Best Pizza in the World:

Eating the best pizza in the world in Naples

Once we parked, we went to one of the best pizzerias in the worldGino Sorbillo Artista Pizza. Naples is the birthplace of pizza and you cannot visit the city without having at least a slice! (Yes, you can find street food stands in Naples that sell pizza by the slice.)

Overall, the pizza at Gino Sorbillo is amazing and you can find their locations in the heart of Naples, which is where we ate at, and along the waterfront. Other Sorbillo pizza locations are in Rome, Milan, Genoa, Torino, New York City, Miami and Tokyo. Even though the pizzeria has locations all over the world, the restaurant we went to in the city of Naples is known to be the best! We did have to wait in a long line, but it went fast.

Dessert from Naples

Sorbillo is rated as the best pizzeria in the world and after our experience, we totally can see why! Every pizza pie we had was delicious. The desserts also did not disappoint.

Another famous pizzeria to check out in Naples is Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba.

Discover Naples and Learn about its History:

Learning about the history of Naples during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

Naples was founded by the Greeks and its name means New City. Overall, Naples is the 3rd largest city in Italy after Rome and Milan and it includes a lot of history!

If you plan to explore the city, I recommend you check out the below:

The Historic Center of Naples:
The busy streets of Naples, Italy

The center of Naples is filled with bustling streets where you’ll come across countless clotheslines hanging from local homes; thriving street vendors; farmers markets, incredible stores and more. The historic center of Naples is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Duomo di Napoli:

A trip to Naples is not complete without visiting the cathedral in the city. The Duomo di Napoli is a Roman Catholic church that opened in 1272. It features beautiful Gothic and Baroque architecture and it is a peaceful place to visit within the bustling streets of Naples.

The 7 Castles of Naples:
Castel Capuano in Naples, Italy

Naples boasts seven castles within the city. During your time in Naples, I recommend checking out Castel dell’Ovo, Castel Nuovo, Castel Capuano, Castel Sant’Elmo, Forte di Vigliena, Castello del Carmine and Castello di Nisida.

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples:

If you love ancient history, then you must visit the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, which boasts incredible masterpieces from the Ancient Greek, Roman and even Renaissance period.

Explore the Archaeological Site of Pompeii:

Discovering the archaeological site of Pompeii during a 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary

If you decide not to explore Naples and just want to see Pompeii, then you can visit anytime between 9am and 3:30pm. The archaeological park closes at 5pm. Click here to book your tickets (and view prices) and schedule a time to visit Pompeii.

Overall, Pompeii is situated between Naples and Sorrento and it is a fascinating historical site to include in your Amalfi Coast itinerary. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the time to explore Pompeii during our Southern Italy trip and that is because we chose to explore Naples, since my ancestors from my dad’s side is from there.

Mount Vesuvius is a somma-stratovolcano that is situated on the Gulf of Naples in the Campania region of Italy (which is also where Amalfi Coast is in). In general, Mount Vesuvius is a dangerous volcano and the city of Naples is constantly under a threat from it. They say if there is another eruption, it will be bad!

The ancient city of Pompeii, Italy

The volcano has erupted over 50 times and the most famous eruption happened in 79 AD when it buried the Roman city of Pompeii. Over 2,000 people died and the city was abandoned for centuries. It was rediscovered in the middle of the 18th Century.

Nowadays, you can visit the ancient site and wander through all the ancient ruins. It is fascinating to see and it can take you anywhere from two to over seven hours to see everything.

Arrive in Sorrento:

The beautiful city of Sorrento, Italy

After our day in Naples, we arrived in Sorrento and checked into our Airbnb. During our first evening in Sorrento, we were tired and went to a restaurant right near the apartment we were staying in called Pizzeria da Franco Food Philosophy.

A caprese salad from Sorrento

During our time at this restaurant, I savored the Caprese salad, which was one of the best I’ve had. The Campania region of Italy is known for their tomatoes. They are so fresh! In addition, my mom and dad had a salad and both of my brothers had the meatballs. Of course, we had to conclude our dinner with some limoncello!

Day 2: Capri

Doing a day trip to Capri during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

Do a Luxury Day Trip to Capri during an Amalfi Coast Itinerary:

An Amalfi Coast itinerary is not complete without including a day trip to the island of Capri. During our second day in Southern Italy, we booked private boat tour and day trip to Capri from Sorrento.

Doing a Lubrense Boat tour to Capri during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

We chose to do our private boat tour through Lubrense Boats. They do tours to and from Sorrento, Capri, Naples as well as the Amalfi Coast villages of Positano, Praiano, Amalfi and Ravello.

A woman on a private boat tour in Capri during an Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days

What is great about booking your day trip to Capri with Lubrense Boats is that if you aren’t situated near the dock in Sorrento, Amalfi Coast or Naples, then they will pick you up at your accommodation in a private van and take you to the boat. Once you get to the dock, you will be greeted with your guide. Our guide, Tony, was awesome and made our day one to remember!

A boat tour to Capri from Sorrento

Overall, our boat tour to Capri was a full day. We were picked up at 8am and were dropped back off at 5pm. Our family did a similar private boat tour during our time in Lake Como in 2018 and if I can give anyone a piece of advice, it is to spend a little extra on a private tour in Italy versus being with other people. The experience is unbelievable!

A day trip in Capri, Italy

Our first stop on our tour was to the famous sight of the Grotta Azzurra, otherwise known as the Blue Grotto. It is a natural cave that you can only access with a small rowboat. There comes a point in the cave where sunlight passes through and creates a cool blue reflection that illuminates the entire cavern.

The Blue Grotto in Capri

Unfortunately, the water was a bit choppy during our tour, so the Blue Grotto was closed. It is also closed during the winter season from November through March where winds tend to be higher and there are also rougher seas. Even though we didn’t get to go inside of the Blue Grotto, we did get to see the outside of it.

The Three Sisters Cave in Capri
The Green Grotto in Capri
The White Grotto in Capri

Afterwards, we made our way over to the Three Sister Caves of Capri. It is a set of three caves that stand next to each other. In addition, we also got to see the Green Grotto, which features glistening emerald green water; the White Grotto, which is a white rock cave, as well as the Grotto Matermania, which means the Grotto of Marriage, where Caprese locals encourage newlywed couples to go after their ceremony as a propitiator rite.

Capri's lighthouse

As we made our way around the isle of Capri, we also saw the island’s beautiful lighthouse that stands proudly on top of the rugged cliffs. We then got to Faraglioni, which is Capri’s most iconic sight. Faraglioni are three towering rock formations and sea stacks in the Mediterranean and they cannot be missed during a trip to Capri.

A woman enjoying a day trip to Capri during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

What is cool about Faraglioni is that it includes a stone archway that your boat will sail through. If you’re with your significant other and exchange a kiss while passing through the arch, you will be granted with good luck!

The island of Capri is situated in the Tyrrhenian Sea, which is part of the Mediterranean. Capri includes two popular sections – Marina Grande and Marina Piccola. You can find beautiful beaches, stunning hotels and resorts, great restaurants and picturesque views on both sides.

Capri is a popular island that attracts many tourists. If you’re looking for an Italian island experience that is more off-the-grid, you must check out the colorful island of Procida, Italy.

A beach in Capri
Boats in Capri

Our guide Tony parked the boat at Marina Piccola where we were able to get off and enjoy a nice swim in the Mediterranean Sea. This area of Capri is known for its beautiful and busy restaurant terraces, the Gardens of Augustus (botanical gardens), panoramic sea views, bougainvillea and the Belvedere di Punta lookout point.

A woman exploring Capri during a 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary
Beautiful terraces in Capri

During our time in Marina Piccola on Capri, we enjoyed a lovely lunch at Torre Saracena. My mom and I had fruitti di mare, which included linguine pasta with fresh seafood (mainly shellfish) in a light tomato white wine sauce. My dad and brothers had the linguine and clams in a white wine sauce. Everything was incredible!

White wine from Capri
A seafood pasta dish from Capri

On our way back to Sorrento, we stopped to swim at a beautiful area and my brother and I swam up to a private rock beach. Then, we got to enjoy some limoncello and local beer! (We were also given water on our tour and Tony also had Caprese sandwiches in case anyone got hungry or needed a snack.)

Lemons on the Amalfi Coast date back to the first century AD when Jewish immigrants traveling the Silk Road brought them over. Jesuit priests then began growing them and now you can find lemon groves all throughout the area. Limoncello is a citrus-based alcohol that is used as an after-dinner drink in Italy.

Enjoy Lemon Pasta in Sorrento:

Lemon shrimp pasta from Sorrento

Once we arrived back in Sorrento, we showered and headed into the downtown area where we ate at an incredible restaurant. In fact, it was one of the best restaurants we ate at during our 5 days on the Amalfi Coast and it should be included in your itinerary!

Our cousins who travel to Italy often, recommended Ristorante Fuoro, which is known for its lemon shrimp pasta! This lovely family-owned restaurant is snuggled between the charming alleyways of Sorrento’s town center and the staff were some of the friendliest and most welcoming during our Southern Italy trip.

Limoncello from Sorrento

Of course, I got the lemon shrimp pasta that actually came out of a lemon and it was amazing! My dad had the same dish and loved it. My mom got pasta with eggplant, my one brother enjoyed the ravioli and my other brother savored the gnocchi alla Sorrentina, which is another staple dish in the region, that consists of fresh gnocchi, tomato, melted mozzarella and basil. Everything was delicious and we enjoyed our meals with a nice Italian red wine!

A peach dessert from Sorrento

We were given limoncello for our after-dinner drink and for dessert, we had a special peach treat.

Day 3: Positano

Visiting Positano during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

Have a Fun Day Trip in Positano during an Amalfi Coast Itinerary:

The third day on our Amalfi Coast itinerary involved taking in all the beauty and charm of Positano. This beautiful cliffside village along the Amalfi Coast is a popular vacation destination and honeymoon spot that is filled with quaint narrow streets, terraced hotels that overlook the sea, stunning boutique shops and great eateries.

Beautiful views of Positano on Amalfi Coast

Now, I will admit that just like the villages of Cinque Terre, Positano is the most popular spot on the Amalfi Coast and it does attract a lot of tourists. Even though we based ourselves in Sorrento, which I highly recommend, I do believe that Positano deserves a full day to enjoy.

We drove to Positano from Sorrento and it took a little less than an hour with traffic. Keep in mind that the main road on the Amalfi Coast is small, windy and includes one lane. During the prime season, there is a lot of traffic heading into each Amalfi Coast village. I recommend that you try to get to Positano early so that you can beat the traffic and find decent parking along the street. (Parking is free along the main road. You can also find paid parking lots, but they fill up quick.)

A woman enjoying a day trip in Positano during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

When you first get to Positano, I recommend heading to Spaggia Grande, which is Positano’s main beach. It costs 25 euros per person for a lounge chair and umbrella, which is worth it for a day in Positano. Plus, you can come and go from your beach chair all day long.

The beach in Positano is beautiful and offers great views all around. The water is also perfect to cool off in. A day trip to Positano is not complete without going to the beach and you cannot exclude it from an Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days.

Spaggia Grande in Positano

One of the best places to eat during your time in Positano is Le Tre Sorelle, also known as the “Three Sisters Restaurant”, this wonderful eatery is located on Spaggia Grande and includes amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Started by three sisters, Le Tre Sorelle features incredible seafood and pasta dishes along with a great wine and cocktail menu. My family and I ate lunch at this wonderful spot and everything was incredible. I had an Aperol spritz for my drink and my brother and I shared the oysters as an appetizer. For my main meal, I had the pasta with monkfish and it was delicious!

Oysters from Le Tre Sorelle in Positano
Pasta with monkfish from Positano

Another great thing to do during your time in Positano is to walk through the shops. I bought a stunning dress that I wore during my time in Puglia later in the trip. There are also wonderful stores that sell ceramics, home dećor, food and more.

A woman doing a vintage car tour during an Amalfi Coast trip

In addition, I recommend taking an Italy Vintage Tour with Giuseppe. He owns an iconic Fiat 500 vintage car and will pick you up and take you on an unforgettable ride through Positano and around the Amalfi Coast. It is a great way to get awesome photos and see beautiful views. There are other great vintage car tours you can take as well.

Lemon granita from Positano

If you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy a refreshing snack, I suggest heading to La Zagara and getting a lemon granita. It is delicious and will clean your palette after savoring lunch.

A woman at Salvatore's Fruit Stand in Positano

In addition, I recommend visiting Salvatore Milano’s fruit stand, which is located long the main road on the Amalfi Coast. Salvatore is a sweet local man who has a picturesque fruit stand with incredible views of the hills of Positano. He sells fresh orange juice and local produce, along with other tasty fruits like pomegranates and grapes to enjoy.

Sunset views of Positano

Positano is a great destination to watch the sunset. One of the best bars to enjoy drinks with a beautiful sunset is Franco’s Bar. You can take in the views of the cliffside village lit up at night and admire the beauty of the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, which boasts a majolica-tiled dome.

Go to Dinner on the Waterfront in Sorrento:

Sorrento Marina Grande at night

On our third evening in Sorrento, our Airbnb owner recommended an incredible seafood restaurant on the Marina Grande called Zi’Ntonio Mare.

Zi’Ntonio Mare is a luxury, seasonal restaurant known for its seafood specialties as well as regional and national dishes. When we first arrived, we were given a glass of local champagne, which was great! We also enjoyed a local red wine with our meals.

Cod gnocchi from Zi'Ntonio Mare in Sorrento
Lemon cake in Sorrento

As an appetizer, we savored seafood croquettes and for my main meal, I had the kale gnocchi that was stuffed with cod. It was delicious! My dad and brothers got the seafood risotto and my mom had the sea bass. For dessert, we savored the fresh lemon cake!

Day 4: Amalfi, Atrani & Ravello

Visiting Atrani during a 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary

During the fourth day of our Amalfi Coast itinerary, my family and I explored some of the other villages along the peninsula.

Between Sorrento and Salerno, there are 13 towns and villages on the Amalfi Coast. They are Amalfi, Atrani, Cetara, Conca de’Marini, Furore, Maiori, Minori, Positano, Praiano, Ravello, Scala, Tramonti and Vietri sul Mare. Even though we would’ve loved to have visited all the villages on the Amalfi Coast, we only made it to Amalfi, Atrani and Ravello during our fourth day.

Walk Around the Town of Amalfi:

Views of the town of Amalfi

Just like the previous day, we woke up early and drove straight to the charming village of Amalfi where we parked in a paid garage right by the Costiera Amalfitana, which is a scenic waterfront. From there, we walked everywhere in both Amalfi and Atrani.

The famous Amalfi Lemon Delight Cake

At first, we enjoyed the beauty along the waterfront before heading over to breakfast at Savoia Pasticceria. My mom and I tried the famous Amalfi Lemon Delight Cake, which is a staple throughout the town of Amalfi. My dad savored the torta ricotta, which is similar to a lemon cheesecake, and my brothers enjoyed chocolate croissants.

A woman visiting the Duomo di Sant'Andrea during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

Our day in these three beautiful towns were relaxing and we simply enjoyed strolling through all of them. The town of Amalfi is beautiful and includes lovely storefronts, the Piazza Dante, which is known for its beautiful fountains, and the Duomo di Sant’Andrea that is a Roman Catholic cathedral featuring Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque and Byzantine architecture.

Relax in Atrani:

A woman visiting Atrani in Southern Italy

After spending a couple hours in Amalfi, we walked over to the seaside town of Atrani, which is considered the “Undiscovered Town” along the Amalfi Coast. Overall, it takes around 10-15 minutes to walk over to Atrani from Amalfi. It is that close!

Mussels from Atrani
Margherita pizza from Le Arcate in Atrani

The town of Atrani is small and has a population of less than 1,000. It features a beautiful beach, churches, piazzas with gorgeous fountains and awesome restaurants. When we first arrived in Atrani, we ate lunch on the beach at Le Arcate where we savored rosé, pizza and fresh mussels. Everything was delicious!

Enjoying the beach in Atrani during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

When we were finished with lunch, we sat on the beach at Spiaggia di Atrani. Overall, I loved the beach in Atrani because it was less crowded and half the price of sitting on the beach in Positano. It was such a peaceful spot to spend the afternoon.

Discover the Beauty in Ravello:

Our last stop in our 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary was to the beautiful town of Ravello. We didn’t do much in Ravello besides walk around and watch the sunset, but it is considered the City of Music on the Amalfi Coast and it is home to the famous Villa Cimbrone, which features a hotel that overlooks the Mediterranean. It is perfect for weddings, honeymoons and receptions.

A woman enjoying the Amalfi Coast

Ravello is also where the Villa Rufolo is located, which has a storied past. One of the earliest Italian Renaissance authors, Boccaccio, wrote a story about Villa Rufolo and in his book Decameron, which was published in the 14th Century. During that time, the villa was one of the largest and most expensive in Italy and it hosted banquets for royalty.

Dine in an Antique Shop in Sorrento:

During our fourth evening in Sorrento, we ate at L’Antica Trattoria, which is a lovely restaurant inside of an antique shop in the heart of town!

Sea bass rolls from L'Antica Trattoria

When we first arrived at L’Antica Trattoria, we were given champagne to enjoy. For my dinner, I got the sea bass rolls in a tomato sauce and it was delicious. It also came with some shellfish. Then for dessert, the restaurant gave us mouthwatering caramel cream puffs to enjoy.

Caramel cream puffs from L'Antica Trattoria

As we dined, there was a sweet local gentleman that played the mandolin while we enjoyed our dinner. The mandolin is an instrument from Naples and it plays beautiful tunes that will bring you back in time.

Day 5: Sorrento

A woman enjoying a day in Sorrento during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

Adventure around Sorrento during an Amalfi Coast Itinerary

An Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days would not be complete with spending at least one day enjoying everything that Sorrento, Italy has to offer!

Family in Sorrento, Italy

Since my dad’s family is from Campania, we have cousins that live in the region in a city called Benevento. It is a little over an hour east of Naples and over two hours northeast of Sorrento. We met them for the first time and enjoyed a lovely breakfast while we got to know each other. I first connected with my cousin Eleonora a few years ago on Instagram, so it was amazing meeting her in person along with the rest of the family. If you have family still living in your native country, I recommend reaching out and connecting with them when you visit. It is truly special!

We ate breakfast at Fauno Bar in the Piazza Torquato Tasso in Sorrento. I had a cappuccino with crepes and Nutella and everything was delicious.

Nutella crepes from Sorrento

After enjoying some time with our cousins, we strolled around Sorrento and truly experienced everything it offers. The city got its name from the mythological Greek Sirens. Italian folklore has it that Sirens were mermaids who lured sailors to their death with bewitching songs.

A woman at Ristorante O Parrucchiano in Sorrento, Italy

For lunch, we ate at Ristorante O Parrucchiano, which is a beautiful restaurant in the heart of Sorrento that has lemon groves hanging from the ceiling as well as vintage cars in the parking lot for decoration. Overall, I LOVED this restaurant and it was one of my favorites during my Southern Italian trip. For lunch, I had the famous gnocchi alla Sorrentina and it was amazing. I also enjoyed an iconic limoncello spritz, which was nice and refreshing.

Limoncello spritz
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina from Sorrento

Sorrento also boasts 10 beautiful beaches with renowned beach clubs to have fun at and you must include at least one of them in your Amalfi Coast itinerary. The beaches in Sorrento range from rocky coastlines to sandy shores. You can also find both private and public beaches in Sorrento!

Visiting the beach in Sorrento during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

During our afternoon in Sorrento, we relaxed and swam at Marameo Beach, which is one of the oldest bathing establishments in Sorrento. This fun beach club just went through some restyling and it offers beautiful views; changing rooms; comfortable beds and armchairs; sun beds that are actually in the water; spacious gazebos; umbrellas and beach towels; a restaurant and bar; entertainment and a private area that includes a Jacuzzi.

Marameo Beach Club in Sorrento

Overall, we had a great time at Marameo Beach and the service was incredible! One thing to note is that this beach club is open from April to October and closes for the winter. For 17 euros per person, we each got our own deckchair with a towel. It does cost more for other services.

Seafood ravioli from Ristorante La Basilica Sorrento

On our last evening, we ate dinner at Ristorante La Basilica Sorrento, which is right off the Piazza Tasso. This lovely restaurant is located in an alleyway and they feature delicious Sorrentine dishes and pizza. I had the seafood ravioli in a caper sauce and it was tasty!


A woman enjoying the town of Amalfi

If you love the Amalfi Coast, check out these other destinations:

Cinque Terre

French Riviera

Dubrovnik

Planning an epic European vacation? Find more Europe travel tips here.

I hope you all enjoyed discovering this amazing itinerary for Southern Italy. We had an amazing 5 days and please also note that you can also include a lot of what we did in your own Amalfi Coast itinerary for 4 days, 7 days, a weekend, etc. A lot of what we did on the Amalfi Coast is also perfect for a memorable Amalfi Coast honeymoon itinerary. If you have any questions, please email me at info@browneyedflowerchild.com.

Traveling around Italy want to take a cooking class? Click here!

Basic Facts of Italy:

Currency: Euro, Capital: Rome, Time Zone: Central European Standard Time

Looking for the best agency to book your next bespoke travel experience? Contact Crawford Concierge!

*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more. Click here to get insured for your next trip.

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4 Comments

  1. Kim Deer on November 22, 2021 at 11:07 pm

    This was such a pleasure to read ~ this brought me back to that amazing dream-like region on the cliffs of the Amalfi coast. So glad we were able to spend some time on the breathtaking beaches there. The architecture and landscapes were absolutely beautiful. The restaurants offered amazing food. The weather was perfect too! Loved walking the cliffs on Amalfi coast!Loved meeting up with dad’s family ~ such beautiful people! Loved visiting Naples where my wonderful childhood friend Vinny Pepe lived for 30 years. Great to experience such a unique city! This trip was perfect for our family now that you and your brothers can really enjoy the beauty and history that Italy has to offer! Such a memorable trip ~ we will reminisce about this vacation for many years to come. Glad we were able to make this happen this year. Especially after being shut down with the pandemic for over a year and half ~ beautiful blog and stunning photos! Love you, mom xoxo ♥️⚘🍋🇮🇹 🙏🏼

    • Taylor Deer on November 23, 2021 at 12:27 am

      Thank you mom! I’m glad we were able to make it happen too! Love you too! <3

  2. alex on December 17, 2021 at 8:08 am

    this is article is so amazing and intresting . the pics of this article is so lovely. i just love this. this is so amazing. thanks for sharing this amazing article about coast itinerary 5days.

    • Taylor Deer on December 21, 2021 at 9:38 am

      Thank you so much Alex! 🙂

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Taylor-Positano4

A woman enjoying her Amalfi Coast itinerary in Positano

An itinerary for Southern Italy is not complete without including the Amalfi Coast. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Amalfi Coast is a picturesque coastline on Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula. It is in the Campania region, near the city of Naples, and its breathtaking coastal road starts in the cliffside city of Sorrento and ends in the port city of Salerno. Overall, Amalfi Coast is a stunning and romantic area of Southern Italy that is filled with charming, hilltop villages; terraced vineyards; grand villas; lemon groves; natural wonders and delicious cuisine.

In September 2021, I did an unforgettable Southern Italy trip. I started my Italy travels in Rome with my family where we spent 2 nights in the capital city. From there, we made our way to Naples before spending 5 nights in Sorrento and along the Amalfi Coast as well as Capri. Towards the end of our family trip, we drove back up to Rome where we explored Vatican City and spent 1 more night before departing ways.

A woman at Salvatore's Fruit Stand in Positano, Amalfi Coast

While my family headed back home to New Jersey, I met up with Ashley of World to Wander and we spent 3 nights and 4 days in Puglia, which is located at the heel of the boot.

In this Southern Italy travel blog, discover the best Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days. In addition to the cities and villages along the Amalfi Coast, my family and I also explored Naples and did a memorable day trip to the island of Capri.

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like.


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Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days

How to Travel to the Amalfi Coast During a 5-Day Itinerary:

Views of Positano

Before I get into the details of how to get to and around the Amalfi Coast, I first want to discuss how I traveled to Southern Italy in general.

I took a flight from Newark Liberty International Airport to Rome Fiumicino – Leonardo da Vinci Airport with a layover in Lisbon. You can find affordable flights through Skyscanner.

Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days that includes the town of Amalfi

To get from Rome to Amalfi Coast, you can either take the train from Roma Termini to Sorrento Train Station or Salerno Train Station with a stop in Napoli Centrale/Garibaldi; take the bus from Rome Tiburtina Bus Station to Sorrento Bus Station or Salerno (Piazza Concordia) with stops at Naples (Metropark Centrale) and Pompeii or lastly, rent your own car.

After spending our first two nights in Rome, my family and I decided to rent our own vehicle from one of the rental car companies at Termini Station. One thing to note about renting a car in Italy (or anywhere in the European Union) is that you will need to have an international diver’s permit in addition to your regular license. I don’t know how the process works for every single country out there, but for U.S. residents, you could easily obtain one by going to your local AAA office.

Exploring the town of Amalfi during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

Once you are on the Amalfi Coast, you can either drive around to the different towns in your own car; take the local SITA bus from Sorrento; sail around via the Travelmar Ferry; hire a private driver or participate in a tour.

Because our itinerary during our 5 days on the Amalfi Coast had us visiting different villages and towns from Sorrento, it was easiest for us to drive our rental car around. Admittedly, it can be quite overwhelming driving the main road along the Amalfi Coast, so I recommend getting a compact vehicle, if you can! Having a smaller car is easier to maneuver around the narrow and windy roads of Europe. Unfortunately, since there was five of us, we had to get an SUV and it was more difficult driving around. We accomplished everything we wanted to see though!

Exploring the town of Atrani during 5 days on the Amalfi Coast itinerary

If you plan to base yourself in one of the smaller towns along the Amalfi Coast, like Positano, it is easier for you to take the local bus, since everything is closer in that vicinity. Depending on when you visit the Amalfi Coast, you can also take the ferry from either Positano, Amalfi, Minori, Maiori or Salerno. (Between the bus and ferry, it is significantly cheaper to take the bus, but not as convenient.)

Where to Stay on Amalfi Coast as You Follow a 5-Day Itinerary:

Enjoying the city of Sorrento during an Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days

Our Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days included us basing ourselves in the city of Sorrento and traveling to the smaller villages like Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, etc. from there.

I LOVED staying in Sorrento and believe it is the best place to base yourself during an Amalfi Coast road trip! Sorrento is the closest city from Naples and it is the most conveniently located of all the towns on the peninsula.

In addition, Sorrento has everything – renowned restaurants, beautiful hotels and rental properties, great shopping, an awesome beach and more!

The Amalfi Coast of Southern Italy

During our Amalfi itinerary, we stayed in an Airbnb in Sorrento Center, which was in a great walking distance to the heart of town and waterfront. Click here to book it! In general, if you are traveling with family or a group of friends (we were a group of 5), it is most convenient and cost efficient to stay at an Airbnb or Vrbo during your time in Southern Italy.

Regarding hotels and other accommodations, you can find great choices ranging from luxury to budget! Below are my personal recommendations for where to stay as you base yourself in Sorrento, Italy:

Luxury Accommodation: Maison La Minervetta

Boutique Accommodation: Palazzo Marziale

Mid-Budget Accommodation: Hotel Regina Sorrento

Budget Accommodation: Unconventional Sorrento Coast

Best 5-Day Naples and Amalfi Coast Itinerary:

Beautiful views of Positano on the Amalfi Coast

Day 1: Naples and Pompeii

Experience the Bustling City of Naples:

A woman exploring Naples during her Amalfi Coast itinerary

A 5-Day Amalfi Coast itinerary should include the cities of Naples and Pompeii since it makes for a great road trip stop from Rome to Sorrento. (It takes a little less than four hours to drive from Rome to Sorrento.) Discover the 10 best things to do in Naples!

The city of Naples

On our first day, we left Rome at around 9:30am and arrived in Naples around lunchtime. Please note that if you plan to drive to Naples like we did, it is best that you find a parking lot or garage that isn’t in the heart of the city. We parked at a paid lot closer to the waterfront and it was easy to go in and out. The city of Naples has narrow streets that are extremely busy, so it is best that you avoid driving them no matter what type of vehicle you have.

Savor the Best Pizza in the World:

Eating the best pizza in the world in Naples

Once we parked, we went to one of the best pizzerias in the worldGino Sorbillo Artista Pizza. Naples is the birthplace of pizza and you cannot visit the city without having at least a slice! (Yes, you can find street food stands in Naples that sell pizza by the slice.)

Overall, the pizza at Gino Sorbillo is amazing and you can find their locations in the heart of Naples, which is where we ate at, and along the waterfront. Other Sorbillo pizza locations are in Rome, Milan, Genoa, Torino, New York City, Miami and Tokyo. Even though the pizzeria has locations all over the world, the restaurant we went to in the city of Naples is known to be the best! We did have to wait in a long line, but it went fast.

Dessert from Naples

Sorbillo is rated as the best pizzeria in the world and after our experience, we totally can see why! Every pizza pie we had was delicious. The desserts also did not disappoint.

Another famous pizzeria to check out in Naples is Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba.

Discover Naples and Learn about its History:

Learning about the history of Naples during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

Naples was founded by the Greeks and its name means New City. Overall, Naples is the 3rd largest city in Italy after Rome and Milan and it includes a lot of history!

If you plan to explore the city, I recommend you check out the below:

The Historic Center of Naples:
The busy streets of Naples, Italy

The center of Naples is filled with bustling streets where you’ll come across countless clotheslines hanging from local homes; thriving street vendors; farmers markets, incredible stores and more. The historic center of Naples is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Duomo di Napoli:

A trip to Naples is not complete without visiting the cathedral in the city. The Duomo di Napoli is a Roman Catholic church that opened in 1272. It features beautiful Gothic and Baroque architecture and it is a peaceful place to visit within the bustling streets of Naples.

The 7 Castles of Naples:
Castel Capuano in Naples, Italy

Naples boasts seven castles within the city. During your time in Naples, I recommend checking out Castel dell’Ovo, Castel Nuovo, Castel Capuano, Castel Sant’Elmo, Forte di Vigliena, Castello del Carmine and Castello di Nisida.

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples:

If you love ancient history, then you must visit the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, which boasts incredible masterpieces from the Ancient Greek, Roman and even Renaissance period.

Explore the Archaeological Site of Pompeii:

Discovering the archaeological site of Pompeii during a 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary

If you decide not to explore Naples and just want to see Pompeii, then you can visit anytime between 9am and 3:30pm. The archaeological park closes at 5pm. Click here to book your tickets (and view prices) and schedule a time to visit Pompeii.

Overall, Pompeii is situated between Naples and Sorrento and it is a fascinating historical site to include in your Amalfi Coast itinerary. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the time to explore Pompeii during our Southern Italy trip and that is because we chose to explore Naples, since my ancestors from my dad’s side is from there.

Mount Vesuvius is a somma-stratovolcano that is situated on the Gulf of Naples in the Campania region of Italy (which is also where Amalfi Coast is in). In general, Mount Vesuvius is a dangerous volcano and the city of Naples is constantly under a threat from it. They say if there is another eruption, it will be bad!

The ancient city of Pompeii, Italy

The volcano has erupted over 50 times and the most famous eruption happened in 79 AD when it buried the Roman city of Pompeii. Over 2,000 people died and the city was abandoned for centuries. It was rediscovered in the middle of the 18th Century.

Nowadays, you can visit the ancient site and wander through all the ancient ruins. It is fascinating to see and it can take you anywhere from two to over seven hours to see everything.

Arrive in Sorrento:

The beautiful city of Sorrento, Italy

After our day in Naples, we arrived in Sorrento and checked into our Airbnb. During our first evening in Sorrento, we were tired and went to a restaurant right near the apartment we were staying in called Pizzeria da Franco Food Philosophy.

A caprese salad from Sorrento

During our time at this restaurant, I savored the Caprese salad, which was one of the best I’ve had. The Campania region of Italy is known for their tomatoes. They are so fresh! In addition, my mom and dad had a salad and both of my brothers had the meatballs. Of course, we had to conclude our dinner with some limoncello!

Day 2: Capri

Doing a day trip to Capri during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

Do a Luxury Day Trip to Capri during an Amalfi Coast Itinerary:

An Amalfi Coast itinerary is not complete without including a day trip to the island of Capri. During our second day in Southern Italy, we booked private boat tour and day trip to Capri from Sorrento.

Doing a Lubrense Boat tour to Capri during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

We chose to do our private boat tour through Lubrense Boats. They do tours to and from Sorrento, Capri, Naples as well as the Amalfi Coast villages of Positano, Praiano, Amalfi and Ravello.

A woman on a private boat tour in Capri during an Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days

What is great about booking your day trip to Capri with Lubrense Boats is that if you aren’t situated near the dock in Sorrento, Amalfi Coast or Naples, then they will pick you up at your accommodation in a private van and take you to the boat. Once you get to the dock, you will be greeted with your guide. Our guide, Tony, was awesome and made our day one to remember!

A boat tour to Capri from Sorrento

Overall, our boat tour to Capri was a full day. We were picked up at 8am and were dropped back off at 5pm. Our family did a similar private boat tour during our time in Lake Como in 2018 and if I can give anyone a piece of advice, it is to spend a little extra on a private tour in Italy versus being with other people. The experience is unbelievable!

A day trip in Capri, Italy

Our first stop on our tour was to the famous sight of the Grotta Azzurra, otherwise known as the Blue Grotto. It is a natural cave that you can only access with a small rowboat. There comes a point in the cave where sunlight passes through and creates a cool blue reflection that illuminates the entire cavern.

The Blue Grotto in Capri

Unfortunately, the water was a bit choppy during our tour, so the Blue Grotto was closed. It is also closed during the winter season from November through March where winds tend to be higher and there are also rougher seas. Even though we didn’t get to go inside of the Blue Grotto, we did get to see the outside of it.

The Three Sisters Cave in Capri
The Green Grotto in Capri
The White Grotto in Capri

Afterwards, we made our way over to the Three Sister Caves of Capri. It is a set of three caves that stand next to each other. In addition, we also got to see the Green Grotto, which features glistening emerald green water; the White Grotto, which is a white rock cave, as well as the Grotto Matermania, which means the Grotto of Marriage, where Caprese locals encourage newlywed couples to go after their ceremony as a propitiator rite.

Capri's lighthouse

As we made our way around the isle of Capri, we also saw the island’s beautiful lighthouse that stands proudly on top of the rugged cliffs. We then got to Faraglioni, which is Capri’s most iconic sight. Faraglioni are three towering rock formations and sea stacks in the Mediterranean and they cannot be missed during a trip to Capri.

A woman enjoying a day trip to Capri during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

What is cool about Faraglioni is that it includes a stone archway that your boat will sail through. If you’re with your significant other and exchange a kiss while passing through the arch, you will be granted with good luck!

The island of Capri is situated in the Tyrrhenian Sea, which is part of the Mediterranean. Capri includes two popular sections – Marina Grande and Marina Piccola. You can find beautiful beaches, stunning hotels and resorts, great restaurants and picturesque views on both sides.

Capri is a popular island that attracts many tourists. If you’re looking for an Italian island experience that is more off-the-grid, you must check out the colorful island of Procida, Italy.

A beach in Capri
Boats in Capri

Our guide Tony parked the boat at Marina Piccola where we were able to get off and enjoy a nice swim in the Mediterranean Sea. This area of Capri is known for its beautiful and busy restaurant terraces, the Gardens of Augustus (botanical gardens), panoramic sea views, bougainvillea and the Belvedere di Punta lookout point.

A woman exploring Capri during a 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary
Beautiful terraces in Capri

During our time in Marina Piccola on Capri, we enjoyed a lovely lunch at Torre Saracena. My mom and I had fruitti di mare, which included linguine pasta with fresh seafood (mainly shellfish) in a light tomato white wine sauce. My dad and brothers had the linguine and clams in a white wine sauce. Everything was incredible!

White wine from Capri
A seafood pasta dish from Capri

On our way back to Sorrento, we stopped to swim at a beautiful area and my brother and I swam up to a private rock beach. Then, we got to enjoy some limoncello and local beer! (We were also given water on our tour and Tony also had Caprese sandwiches in case anyone got hungry or needed a snack.)

Lemons on the Amalfi Coast date back to the first century AD when Jewish immigrants traveling the Silk Road brought them over. Jesuit priests then began growing them and now you can find lemon groves all throughout the area. Limoncello is a citrus-based alcohol that is used as an after-dinner drink in Italy.

Enjoy Lemon Pasta in Sorrento:

Lemon shrimp pasta from Sorrento

Once we arrived back in Sorrento, we showered and headed into the downtown area where we ate at an incredible restaurant. In fact, it was one of the best restaurants we ate at during our 5 days on the Amalfi Coast and it should be included in your itinerary!

Our cousins who travel to Italy often, recommended Ristorante Fuoro, which is known for its lemon shrimp pasta! This lovely family-owned restaurant is snuggled between the charming alleyways of Sorrento’s town center and the staff were some of the friendliest and most welcoming during our Southern Italy trip.

Limoncello from Sorrento

Of course, I got the lemon shrimp pasta that actually came out of a lemon and it was amazing! My dad had the same dish and loved it. My mom got pasta with eggplant, my one brother enjoyed the ravioli and my other brother savored the gnocchi alla Sorrentina, which is another staple dish in the region, that consists of fresh gnocchi, tomato, melted mozzarella and basil. Everything was delicious and we enjoyed our meals with a nice Italian red wine!

A peach dessert from Sorrento

We were given limoncello for our after-dinner drink and for dessert, we had a special peach treat.

Day 3: Positano

Visiting Positano during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

Have a Fun Day Trip in Positano during an Amalfi Coast Itinerary:

The third day on our Amalfi Coast itinerary involved taking in all the beauty and charm of Positano. This beautiful cliffside village along the Amalfi Coast is a popular vacation destination and honeymoon spot that is filled with quaint narrow streets, terraced hotels that overlook the sea, stunning boutique shops and great eateries.

Beautiful views of Positano on Amalfi Coast

Now, I will admit that just like the villages of Cinque Terre, Positano is the most popular spot on the Amalfi Coast and it does attract a lot of tourists. Even though we based ourselves in Sorrento, which I highly recommend, I do believe that Positano deserves a full day to enjoy.

We drove to Positano from Sorrento and it took a little less than an hour with traffic. Keep in mind that the main road on the Amalfi Coast is small, windy and includes one lane. During the prime season, there is a lot of traffic heading into each Amalfi Coast village. I recommend that you try to get to Positano early so that you can beat the traffic and find decent parking along the street. (Parking is free along the main road. You can also find paid parking lots, but they fill up quick.)

A woman enjoying a day trip in Positano during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

When you first get to Positano, I recommend heading to Spaggia Grande, which is Positano’s main beach. It costs 25 euros per person for a lounge chair and umbrella, which is worth it for a day in Positano. Plus, you can come and go from your beach chair all day long.

The beach in Positano is beautiful and offers great views all around. The water is also perfect to cool off in. A day trip to Positano is not complete without going to the beach and you cannot exclude it from an Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days.

Spaggia Grande in Positano

One of the best places to eat during your time in Positano is Le Tre Sorelle, also known as the “Three Sisters Restaurant”, this wonderful eatery is located on Spaggia Grande and includes amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Started by three sisters, Le Tre Sorelle features incredible seafood and pasta dishes along with a great wine and cocktail menu. My family and I ate lunch at this wonderful spot and everything was incredible. I had an Aperol spritz for my drink and my brother and I shared the oysters as an appetizer. For my main meal, I had the pasta with monkfish and it was delicious!

Oysters from Le Tre Sorelle in Positano
Pasta with monkfish from Positano

Another great thing to do during your time in Positano is to walk through the shops. I bought a stunning dress that I wore during my time in Puglia later in the trip. There are also wonderful stores that sell ceramics, home dećor, food and more.

A woman doing a vintage car tour during an Amalfi Coast trip

In addition, I recommend taking an Italy Vintage Tour with Giuseppe. He owns an iconic Fiat 500 vintage car and will pick you up and take you on an unforgettable ride through Positano and around the Amalfi Coast. It is a great way to get awesome photos and see beautiful views. There are other great vintage car tours you can take as well.

Lemon granita from Positano

If you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy a refreshing snack, I suggest heading to La Zagara and getting a lemon granita. It is delicious and will clean your palette after savoring lunch.

A woman at Salvatore's Fruit Stand in Positano

In addition, I recommend visiting Salvatore Milano’s fruit stand, which is located long the main road on the Amalfi Coast. Salvatore is a sweet local man who has a picturesque fruit stand with incredible views of the hills of Positano. He sells fresh orange juice and local produce, along with other tasty fruits like pomegranates and grapes to enjoy.

Sunset views of Positano

Positano is a great destination to watch the sunset. One of the best bars to enjoy drinks with a beautiful sunset is Franco’s Bar. You can take in the views of the cliffside village lit up at night and admire the beauty of the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, which boasts a majolica-tiled dome.

Go to Dinner on the Waterfront in Sorrento:

Sorrento Marina Grande at night

On our third evening in Sorrento, our Airbnb owner recommended an incredible seafood restaurant on the Marina Grande called Zi’Ntonio Mare.

Zi’Ntonio Mare is a luxury, seasonal restaurant known for its seafood specialties as well as regional and national dishes. When we first arrived, we were given a glass of local champagne, which was great! We also enjoyed a local red wine with our meals.

Cod gnocchi from Zi'Ntonio Mare in Sorrento
Lemon cake in Sorrento

As an appetizer, we savored seafood croquettes and for my main meal, I had the kale gnocchi that was stuffed with cod. It was delicious! My dad and brothers got the seafood risotto and my mom had the sea bass. For dessert, we savored the fresh lemon cake!

Day 4: Amalfi, Atrani & Ravello

Visiting Atrani during a 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary

During the fourth day of our Amalfi Coast itinerary, my family and I explored some of the other villages along the peninsula.

Between Sorrento and Salerno, there are 13 towns and villages on the Amalfi Coast. They are Amalfi, Atrani, Cetara, Conca de’Marini, Furore, Maiori, Minori, Positano, Praiano, Ravello, Scala, Tramonti and Vietri sul Mare. Even though we would’ve loved to have visited all the villages on the Amalfi Coast, we only made it to Amalfi, Atrani and Ravello during our fourth day.

Walk Around the Town of Amalfi:

Views of the town of Amalfi

Just like the previous day, we woke up early and drove straight to the charming village of Amalfi where we parked in a paid garage right by the Costiera Amalfitana, which is a scenic waterfront. From there, we walked everywhere in both Amalfi and Atrani.

The famous Amalfi Lemon Delight Cake

At first, we enjoyed the beauty along the waterfront before heading over to breakfast at Savoia Pasticceria. My mom and I tried the famous Amalfi Lemon Delight Cake, which is a staple throughout the town of Amalfi. My dad savored the torta ricotta, which is similar to a lemon cheesecake, and my brothers enjoyed chocolate croissants.

A woman visiting the Duomo di Sant'Andrea during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

Our day in these three beautiful towns were relaxing and we simply enjoyed strolling through all of them. The town of Amalfi is beautiful and includes lovely storefronts, the Piazza Dante, which is known for its beautiful fountains, and the Duomo di Sant’Andrea that is a Roman Catholic cathedral featuring Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque and Byzantine architecture.

Relax in Atrani:

A woman visiting Atrani in Southern Italy

After spending a couple hours in Amalfi, we walked over to the seaside town of Atrani, which is considered the “Undiscovered Town” along the Amalfi Coast. Overall, it takes around 10-15 minutes to walk over to Atrani from Amalfi. It is that close!

Mussels from Atrani
Margherita pizza from Le Arcate in Atrani

The town of Atrani is small and has a population of less than 1,000. It features a beautiful beach, churches, piazzas with gorgeous fountains and awesome restaurants. When we first arrived in Atrani, we ate lunch on the beach at Le Arcate where we savored rosé, pizza and fresh mussels. Everything was delicious!

Enjoying the beach in Atrani during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

When we were finished with lunch, we sat on the beach at Spiaggia di Atrani. Overall, I loved the beach in Atrani because it was less crowded and half the price of sitting on the beach in Positano. It was such a peaceful spot to spend the afternoon.

Discover the Beauty in Ravello:

Our last stop in our 5-day Amalfi Coast itinerary was to the beautiful town of Ravello. We didn’t do much in Ravello besides walk around and watch the sunset, but it is considered the City of Music on the Amalfi Coast and it is home to the famous Villa Cimbrone, which features a hotel that overlooks the Mediterranean. It is perfect for weddings, honeymoons and receptions.

A woman enjoying the Amalfi Coast

Ravello is also where the Villa Rufolo is located, which has a storied past. One of the earliest Italian Renaissance authors, Boccaccio, wrote a story about Villa Rufolo and in his book Decameron, which was published in the 14th Century. During that time, the villa was one of the largest and most expensive in Italy and it hosted banquets for royalty.

Dine in an Antique Shop in Sorrento:

During our fourth evening in Sorrento, we ate at L’Antica Trattoria, which is a lovely restaurant inside of an antique shop in the heart of town!

Sea bass rolls from L'Antica Trattoria

When we first arrived at L’Antica Trattoria, we were given champagne to enjoy. For my dinner, I got the sea bass rolls in a tomato sauce and it was delicious. It also came with some shellfish. Then for dessert, the restaurant gave us mouthwatering caramel cream puffs to enjoy.

Caramel cream puffs from L'Antica Trattoria

As we dined, there was a sweet local gentleman that played the mandolin while we enjoyed our dinner. The mandolin is an instrument from Naples and it plays beautiful tunes that will bring you back in time.

Day 5: Sorrento

A woman enjoying a day in Sorrento during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

Adventure around Sorrento during an Amalfi Coast Itinerary

An Amalfi Coast itinerary for 5 days would not be complete with spending at least one day enjoying everything that Sorrento, Italy has to offer!

Family in Sorrento, Italy

Since my dad’s family is from Campania, we have cousins that live in the region in a city called Benevento. It is a little over an hour east of Naples and over two hours northeast of Sorrento. We met them for the first time and enjoyed a lovely breakfast while we got to know each other. I first connected with my cousin Eleonora a few years ago on Instagram, so it was amazing meeting her in person along with the rest of the family. If you have family still living in your native country, I recommend reaching out and connecting with them when you visit. It is truly special!

We ate breakfast at Fauno Bar in the Piazza Torquato Tasso in Sorrento. I had a cappuccino with crepes and Nutella and everything was delicious.

Nutella crepes from Sorrento

After enjoying some time with our cousins, we strolled around Sorrento and truly experienced everything it offers. The city got its name from the mythological Greek Sirens. Italian folklore has it that Sirens were mermaids who lured sailors to their death with bewitching songs.

A woman at Ristorante O Parrucchiano in Sorrento, Italy

For lunch, we ate at Ristorante O Parrucchiano, which is a beautiful restaurant in the heart of Sorrento that has lemon groves hanging from the ceiling as well as vintage cars in the parking lot for decoration. Overall, I LOVED this restaurant and it was one of my favorites during my Southern Italian trip. For lunch, I had the famous gnocchi alla Sorrentina and it was amazing. I also enjoyed an iconic limoncello spritz, which was nice and refreshing.

Limoncello spritz
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina from Sorrento

Sorrento also boasts 10 beautiful beaches with renowned beach clubs to have fun at and you must include at least one of them in your Amalfi Coast itinerary. The beaches in Sorrento range from rocky coastlines to sandy shores. You can also find both private and public beaches in Sorrento!

Visiting the beach in Sorrento during an Amalfi Coast itinerary

During our afternoon in Sorrento, we relaxed and swam at Marameo Beach, which is one of the oldest bathing establishments in Sorrento. This fun beach club just went through some restyling and it offers beautiful views; changing rooms; comfortable beds and armchairs; sun beds that are actually in the water; spacious gazebos; umbrellas and beach towels; a restaurant and bar; entertainment and a private area that includes a Jacuzzi.

Marameo Beach Club in Sorrento

Overall, we had a great time at Marameo Beach and the service was incredible! One thing to note is that this beach club is open from April to October and closes for the winter. For 17 euros per person, we each got our own deckchair with a towel. It does cost more for other services.

Seafood ravioli from Ristorante La Basilica Sorrento

On our last evening, we ate dinner at Ristorante La Basilica Sorrento, which is right off the Piazza Tasso. This lovely restaurant is located in an alleyway and they feature delicious Sorrentine dishes and pizza. I had the seafood ravioli in a caper sauce and it was tasty!


A woman enjoying the town of Amalfi

If you love the Amalfi Coast, check out these other destinations:

Cinque Terre

French Riviera

Dubrovnik

Planning an epic European vacation? Find more Europe travel tips here.

I hope you all enjoyed discovering this amazing itinerary for Southern Italy. We had an amazing 5 days and please also note that you can also include a lot of what we did in your own Amalfi Coast itinerary for 4 days, 7 days, a weekend, etc. A lot of what we did on the Amalfi Coast is also perfect for a memorable Amalfi Coast honeymoon itinerary. If you have any questions, please email me at info@browneyedflowerchild.com.

Traveling around Italy want to take a cooking class? Click here!

Basic Facts of Italy:

Currency: Euro, Capital: Rome, Time Zone: Central European Standard Time

Looking for the best agency to book your next bespoke travel experience? Contact Crawford Concierge!

*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more. Click here to get insured for your next trip.

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4 Comments

  1. Kim Deer on November 22, 2021 at 11:07 pm

    This was such a pleasure to read ~ this brought me back to that amazing dream-like region on the cliffs of the Amalfi coast. So glad we were able to spend some time on the breathtaking beaches there. The architecture and landscapes were absolutely beautiful. The restaurants offered amazing food. The weather was perfect too! Loved walking the cliffs on Amalfi coast!Loved meeting up with dad’s family ~ such beautiful people! Loved visiting Naples where my wonderful childhood friend Vinny Pepe lived for 30 years. Great to experience such a unique city! This trip was perfect for our family now that you and your brothers can really enjoy the beauty and history that Italy has to offer! Such a memorable trip ~ we will reminisce about this vacation for many years to come. Glad we were able to make this happen this year. Especially after being shut down with the pandemic for over a year and half ~ beautiful blog and stunning photos! Love you, mom xoxo ♥️⚘🍋🇮🇹 🙏🏼

    • Taylor Deer on November 23, 2021 at 12:27 am

      Thank you mom! I’m glad we were able to make it happen too! Love you too! <3

  2. alex on December 17, 2021 at 8:08 am

    this is article is so amazing and intresting . the pics of this article is so lovely. i just love this. this is so amazing. thanks for sharing this amazing article about coast itinerary 5days.

    • Taylor Deer on December 21, 2021 at 9:38 am

      Thank you so much Alex! 🙂

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