Naples and Amalfi Coast Itineraries: 3 to 14 Days

Italy’s southern coastline captivates with dramatic cliffs, ancient ruins, and vibrant towns. Naples serves as the energetic gateway, while the Amalfi Coast unfolds in pastel villages clinging to mountainsides. These original itineraries, inspired by traveler favorites, suit various durations and paces, from whirlwind tours to leisurely explorations.

Why Base Your Trip in Naples and the Amalfi Coast?

This region blends UNESCO sites, Mediterranean cuisine, and natural wonders. Naples buzzes with pizza, museums, and underground tunnels. The Amalfi Coast offers hikes like the Path of the Gods, boat trips past Li Galli Islands, and stays in Positano or Ravello. Expect winding roads—ferries and buses ease navigation.

3-Day Express Escape: Naples Highlights and Coast Teaser

Ideal for short trips, this packs history and scenery without overload.

• Day 1: Naples Immersion – Arrive and dive into the Archaeological Museum for Pompeii artifacts. Stroll Piazza del Plebiscito, visit Castel dell’Ovo, and savor Neapolitan pizza in Quartieri Spagnoli. Overnight: Naples.
• Day 2: Pompeii and Vesuvius – Tour ancient Pompeii’s villas and forums, then hike Vesuvius crater for Tyrrhenian views. Return for underground Naples tunnels. Overnight: Naples.
• Day 3: Amalfi Coast Day Trip – Ferry to Positano for colorful streets and beaches, or bus to Amalfi for its Duomo. Return via Sorrento.

Pro Tip: Book Pompeii tickets early; ferries run seasonally.

5-Day Adventure: Ancient Sites to Coastal Bliss

Perfect for adventurers craving ruins, hikes, and villages.

Highlights include Mount Vesuvius trails and Positano’s bohemian vibe. Opt for a cuoppo seafood snack.

7-Day Classic Journey: Balanced Exploration

This itinerary hits icons with downtime.

• Days 1-2: Naples Base – Museum, Sansevero Chapel’s Veiled Christ, Castel Sant’Elmo views, underground tours. Pizza class optional.
• Day 3: Pompeii & Sorrento – Ruins tour, then Sorrento for lemons and sea views. Overnight: Sorrento.
• Day 4: Capri Boat Day – Ferry to Blue Grotto, hike to ruins. Overnight: Sorrento.
• Day 5: Path of the Gods Hike – From Nocelle to Positano (3-4 hours downhill), lemon pasta lunch. Overnight: Positano.
• Day 6: Amalfi & Ravello – Ferry to Amalfi town, bus to Ravello’s gardens. Overnight: Ravello.
• Day 7: Return via Salerno – Beach time, train to Naples.

10-Day Immersive Voyage: Villages and Villas

For deeper dives, linger in key spots.

• Days 1-3: Naples Deep Dive – Add Solfatara volcano, Lungomare promenade.
• Days 4-5: Pompeii, Herculaneum, Vesuvius – Multi-site ruins. Overnight: Sorrento.
• Days 6-7: Capri Exploration – Island hikes, Anacapri.
• Days 8-9: Coast Cruise – Boat past Maiori, Minori, Praiano, Positano; swim inlets. Stay: Positano/Praiano.
• Day 10: Ravello Finale – Villas, depart.

Private boat tours reveal Lover’s Arch and Furore Fjord.

14-Day Epic Odyssey: Full Coast Traverse

Slow pace for hikers and foodies.

• Days 1-3: Naples – All highlights plus day trip to Procida.
• Days 4-6: Sorrento & Pompeii.
• Days 7-9: Positano/Praiano – Beach days, hikes.
• Days 10-12: Ravello – Gardens, concerts.
• Days 13-14: Vietri sul Mare & Salerno – Ceramics, return to Naples.

Transportation Essentials

Roads: SITA buses link towns; drive only if experienced—curves challenge.
Ferries: From Naples/Sorrento to Capri/Positano; scenic and crowd-avoiding.
Trains: Circumvesuviana to Pompeii/Sorrento; fast to Salerno.

Where to Stay: Top Picks by Duration

Must-Eat Foods and Dining Tips

• Naples: Margherita pizza, sfogliatella pastry, espresso at Gambrinus.
• Coast: Lemon-infused dishes, seafood cuoppo, gelato in Positano.
• Reserve cliffside spots; try family trattorias.

Seasonal Advice and Budgeting

Visit April-June or September-October for mild weather, fewer crowds. Summer peaks with heat/traffic; winter suits hikes. Budget: €100-200/day per person (mid-range).

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best time for Path of the Gods?

Spring/fall; mornings avoid heat. 4-7km, moderate.

Capri or Positano first?

Capri for glamour, Positano for beaches—depends on ferry schedules.

Is driving recommended?

No for most; buses/ferries better.

Family-friendly spots?

Sorrento beaches, Ravello gardens; skip strenuous hikes.

How to avoid crowds?

Early starts, shoulder season, boats over buses.

Planning Your Dream Trip

Customize based on fitness, interests. Book ferries, ruins tickets ahead. This coast rewards patient explorers with timeless beauty.