A visit to the Amalfi Coast brings sweeping sea views and some of Italy’s most iconic postcard destinations. If you’re planning to go to this charming coastal area, you’re in for a treat, thanks to its lemon tree lined streets and incredible views over the Bay of Naples. I’ve been to Italy several times, including staying in Sorrento to explore the delights of the Amalfi Coast. Read on to discover the perfect 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary to help you make the most of your time here.
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Quick overview of your Sorrento and Amalfi Coast 5 day itinerary
- Day 1: Settle into Sorrento and explore the historic town center and Marina Grande
- Day 2: Full day exploring the Amalfi Coast – Positano, Amalfi town, and Ravello
- Day 3: Take a boat trip to glamorous Capri and the famous Blue Grotto
- Day 4: Explore ancient Pompeii and Herculaneum ruins
- Day 5: Relaxing final day in Sorrento with cooking class or island of Ischia
Planning your Amalfi Coast 5 day itinerary
Planning the perfect 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary means choosing the right base. Most people find staying in Sorrento is best for exploring the Amalfi Coast, as it has excellent transport connections from Naples. You’ll need to allow enough time to Sorrento’s lemony delights while using it as a launchpad to the beautiful destinations that surround it. I’ve created this itinerary to help you maximize your time without sacrificing those spontaneous moments.
Where to stay in Sorrento
First, we’ll look at the best place to stay in Sorrento. If you’re a first-time visitor on a 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary, staying in its historic centre is most convenient. This is what I did and I liked being able to easily walk to the restaurants, bars and shops. Alternatively, for a more local experience, try the nearby Sant’Agnello area.
The best hotels in Sorrento
A great affordable option is the Ulisse Deluxe Hostel which, despite the name, is a clean, modern hotel. Its excellent facilities include access to a spa and wellness centre.
The recently renovated Hotel Villa di Sorrento is a fabulous family-run hotel in the heart of town with a lovely rooftop terrace. Alternatively, the Hotel Antiche Mura is a superb four-star hotel set in a restored antique building. Its stunning courtyard and pool area is surrounded by lemon and orange trees.
The wonderful Boutique Hotel Regina has some of the best views in Sorrento from its rooftop pool, terrace and sea-view rooms with balconies. Finally, the excellent Hotel Plaza is a sleek, modern option with a gorgeous rooftop pool and cocktail bar overlooking the Bay of Naples.
Explore the map below to find the best Sorrento hotel deals for your dates:
Day 1: Explore the lemon-lined streets of Sorrento
Morning: Piazza Tasso and the historic centre
Begin your 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary in the heart of Sorrento at Piazza Tasso. This main square is the perfect spot to enjoy your first proper Italian coffee at one of the charming cafés while watching the world go by.
Then, wander through the narrow lanes of the historic centre, where you’ll find artisan shops selling local specialities like limoncello, handmade leather goods and intricate inlaid woodwork that Sorrento is famous for. You’ll also see plenty of lemon trees abundant with this glorious yellow citrus fruit.
Afternoon: Lunch by the sea at Marina Grande
Head down to Marina Grande, Sorrento’s charming fishing village that feels worlds away from the tourist bustle above. This colourful harbour is lined with family-run restaurants serving the freshest seafood. For lunch, I recommend Da Emilia where you can feast on local dishes while watching fishing boats bob in the crystal-clear waters.
Evening: Sunset aperitivo and dinner
Return to the town centre and find a spot for a glass of prosecco at one of the scenic terrace bars. I loved La Pergola, which has a beautiful garden (see my photo below) and views over the Bay of Naples.
For dinner, visit O’Parrucchiano La Favorita. They serve traditional cuisine in a beautiful lemon garden setting, which is amazing for photos.
Day 2: Visit the iconic Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is a string of stunning seaside towns, each with its own distinct personality and charm. The second day of your 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary takes you to the three must-see destinations: Positano, Amalfi town and Ravello. This day trip maximizes your time while minimising those winding (and sometimes busy) coastal road journeys.
Getting to the Amalfi Coast
Start early with the SITA bus from Sorrento to Positano for one of the world’s most scenic bus rides. The twisting coastal road has heart-stopping views at every turn. Heading out early means fewer crowds and better photos. You can reach these picturesque towns in 30-90 minutes by bus. Or do what I did and ride a Vespa from Sorrento to towns along the Amalfi Coast, which is a fabulous way to explore the area at your own pace (and bypass any traffic).. Another option is to book a boat trip to the Amalfi Coast for the day for amazing sea views.
We rented a Vespa and it was my favourite day – here’s me posing by a colourful fruit stand on the way.
Morning: Positano
Spend your morning in Positano, around 30-40 minutes from Sorrento. This is the poster child of the Amalfi Coast that you’ll recognize from countless social media posts. Its iconic pastel-coloured buildings cascade down the cliffside to the sparkling Mediterranean below.
Wander Positano’s steep, winding streets lined with boutiques selling handmade sandals, flowing linen clothing, and local ceramics. Visit the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta with its colourful dome, then grab a coffee or spritz at a terrace café with stunning coastal views.
Midday: Amalfi
Another 40 minutes along the coast from Positano is Amalfi town. This historic maritime republic once rivalled Venice in naval power and you can feel the history in its impressive architecture.
Visit the Amalfi Cathedral with its striking facade and beautiful interior, then explore the town’s narrow streets filled with shops selling the region’s famous handmade paper. Have lunch at a waterfront restaurant – I recommend Marina Grande for fresh seafood with harbour views.
Afternoon: Ravello
In the hills above the coast sits Ravello, up a winding mountain road 30 minutes from Amalfi. This sophisticated retreat sits high above the coast and is home to some of Italy’s most spectacular gardens.
Visit Villa Rufolo or Villa Cimbrone (or both if time permits) for world-class gardens and panoramic views. The Villa Cimbrone gardens end at the famous “Terrace of Infinity,” with views so spectacular they’ve been called the most beautiful in the world.
Return to Sorrento in the evening (around a 1.5 hour journey back from Ravello) feeling accomplished that you’ve seen the coast’s three crown jewels in one efficient day.
Book an incredible boat trip to stops along the Amalfi Coast here.
Day 3: Glamorous escape to Capri
The third day of your 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary takes you to the legendary island of Capri, just 20-30 minutes by ferry from Sorrento. Known as the jewel of the Bay of Naples, Capri is a glamorous island playground that has seduced visitors since Roman times.
Catch an early morning ferry from Sorrento’s Marina Piccola to Marina Grande in Capri, then take the funicular up to Capri Town. Wander through the stylish Piazzetta (the island’s main square) and the surrounding designer boutiques and cafés. If you love vintage shopping, Wonderland Capri has an amazing collection of designer pieces.
A highlight of Capri is its Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), a sea cave illuminated by an otherworldly blue light. Book a boat tour around the island to see this natural wonder, which will also take you past other cool rock formations.
After your boat tour, take the bus up to Anacapri, the island’s second town. Here, you can ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro, the highest point on the island, for breathtaking 360-degree views. You can also hike the scenic Path of the Forts for spectacular coastal views, visit Villa Jovis, Emperor Tiberius’ magnificent clifftop palace or explore Philosophical Park with its peaceful gardens.
For a relaxed beach club experience at more affordable prices, try Da Luigi and Lido del Faro which also serve excellent seafood. Head to Ristorante Panorama for fantastic pizza, pasta and views.
Book your boat trip from Sorrento to Capri including a visit to the Blue Grotto here.
Day 4: Day trip to ancient Pompeii and Herculaneum
The fourth day of your 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary takes you back in time to explore two of the world’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Less than an hour by train from Sorrento are Pompeii and Herculaneum. These remarkably preserved ancient Roman cities offer an unparalleled glimpse into daily life nearly 2,000 years ago.
Pompeii is larger and more famous, with stunning frescoes, an amphitheatre and poignant plaster casts of victims. Herculaneum is smaller but better preserved, with intact wooden elements and multi-storey buildings. Consider visiting both in one day with a guided tour, or focus on just one for a more in-depth experience.
Book a day trip to see the sights of both Pompeii and Herculaneum from Sorrento here.
Day 5: Relaxing final day in Sorrento
For your last day of this 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary, take time to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean way of life.
There are gorgeous backstreets to explore in Sorrento, with atmospheric lanes away from tourist hotspots. If you like shopping, there are plenty of shops selling artisan souvenirs to take home, from handcrafted wood to leather goods and ceramics.
Why not take a cooking workshop to master the art of making pasta or fresh pizza. Alternatively, you could consider a limoncello making class to learn the secrets behind the region’s famous lemon liqueur. Or enjoy tastings in real lemon groves with a tour of a family-run farm growing Sorrento’s famous citrus.
Active visitors may want to hike the Path of the Gods or take a guided tour of the famous trail from where you can enjoy spectacular Amalfi Coast views.
Book a sunset boat tour and cruise along the coast as the sun sets over the Bay of Naples.
Another fabulous day trip option from Sorrento
If you want to explore more, a 60-90 minute ferry ride from Sorrento is Capri’s larger, more authentic volcanic sister island, Ischia.
This island is currently a favourite on social media, thanks to its colourful buildings and charming villages like Sant’Angelo. Here, you can also relax in the island’s famous thermal spas and gardens, like Negombo or Poseidon or visit the impressive Aragonese Castle which sits on its own islet.
Book a boat tour from Sorrento to the beautiful island of Ischia here.
Getting to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
The closest airport to Sorrento is Naples International Airport (NAP), located approximately 50km away. From here, you have several options to reach Sorrento. I flew into Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and took the high-speed train to Naples (1 hour), then connected to Sorrento.
A private transfer is most convenient, taking you directly from Naples Airport to your hotel in about 1 hour for €80-100, ideal for stress-free travel with luggage.
The Curreri Viaggi shuttle offers a good balance of convenience and value at €10 per person, taking about 75 minutes from the airport to central Sorrento with regular departures.
For budget travellers, combining the Alibus shuttle from the airport to Naples Central Station with the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento creates a journey of about 2 hours for €10-15 total, offering an authentic local experience despite sometimes crowded conditions.
Best beaches along the Amalfi Coast
While the Amalfi Coast is more about dramatic cliffs than expansive beaches, there are some stunning spots to enjoy the crystal-clear Mediterranean.
At Positano, you’ll see Spiaggia Grande – the main beach with colourful umbrellas. There’s also Fornillo Beach, which is smaller and more peaceful.
Amalfi town has Marina Grande, a central beach with good facilities and Atrani Beach, a tiny pebble beach in a picturesque village.
If you’re staying in Sorrento, some of the area’s best swimming spots are just a short journey away. Bagni della Regina Giovanna are natural rock swimming pools in crystal-clear waters. Recommone Beach is a small cove with incredible azure waters, accessible in 15 minutes by car. Cala di Puolo is a sandy beach with shallow waters perfect for children. Nerano is an amazing beach with clear water and seafood restaurants, which is 30 minutes away by car.
Most beaches have fees for umbrellas and loungers, but you can sometimes find free sections or just enjoy the views from waterfront restaurants.
The best restaurants in Sorrento
Sorrento’s culinary scene ranges from humble family-run trattorias to refined Michelin-starred establishments. Here’s my guide to the best places to eat in Sorrento Italy.
Tucked away in a former wine cellar, Il Buco is a Michelin-starred restaurant serving refined local cuisine with innovative touches. I enjoyed their tasting menu which showcases the best Campanian ingredients.
A social media favourite is O’Parrucchiano La Favorita. Famous for inventing cannelloni, this historic restaurant has seating in a stunning lemon garden setting. The citrus-scented air enhances the dining experience.
For exceptional seafood with tables right at the water’s edge in Marina Grande, try Ristorante Bagni Delfino. Their linguine with clams is legendary.
If you’re on a budget, check out the wood-fired pizzas made with slow-fermented dough and San Marzano tomatoes at Pizzeria Da Franco.
Local specialities in Sorrento
Don’t leave without trying these regional specialties. For a starter, try a Caprese salad, the classic tomato and mozzarella salad which originates from the nearby island of Capri. For your main course, gnocchi alla Sorrentina is an absolute classic and so hearty – it’s potato gnocchi baked with tomato sauce, basil and melted mozzarella. Dessert must be delizia al limone, a sponge cake filled with lemon cream, using local Sorrento lemons. At the end, why not treat yourself to a shot of limoncello, the famous lemon liqueur produced using the region’s fragrant citrus.
The best bars in Sorrento
Sorrento has a lively evening scene. I enjoyed Shot Bar Sorrento, which has creative shots and a fun vibe. Chaplin’s is an Irish pub which is loads of fun, with singalongs and, of course, plenty of Guinness.
For something a bit more classy and with a wonderful view, try La Pergola bar à champagne, where you can enjoy a glass of bubbly surrounded by the beautiful gardens on their terrace.
The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast
The best times of year to go to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast are April-May and September-October. At these times, there should be pleasant weather and, importantly, fewer people around. The roads to Amalfi Coast are narrow and get easily blocked by the crowds of tourists in the summer. We went in late April and the roads were almost clear. It was warm, though there were occasional rain showers on some days.
Frequently asked questions about the Amalfi Coast
Is 5 days in Amalfi Coast enough?
Yes, five days is perfect for experiencing the highlights without feeling rushed. This 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary allows you to explore the main towns (Positano, Amalfi, Ravello), enjoy a boat trip to Capri, visit nearby attractions like Pompeii and have time to relax in the Mediterranean atmosphere.
Is Amalfi or Positano better?
Both are stunning but serve different purposes. Positano is more photogenic and glamorous, famous for its pastel-coloured buildings cascading down cliffs – it’s the postcard image of the coast. Amalfi is more historic and cultural, with its impressive cathedral and maritime heritage. For this 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary, you’ll be able to visit both.
Is it better to go to Sorrento or Amalfi?
For a 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary, staying in Sorrento is better than staying in Amalfi. Sorrento has better transport connections to Naples, Pompeii and the islands of Capri and Ischia. You’ll visit Amalfi as a day trip while enjoying Sorrento’s authentic atmosphere as your evening base.
Can I do this 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary without a car?
Absolutely – this is what we did. It can be stressful to drive a car around the Amalfi Coast due to its narrow roads, limited parking and traffic congestion. That’s why this itinerary is designed for public transport and organized tours. You can even rent a Vespa if you love them, like me. The local SITA bus network connects the coastal towns, ferries take you to the islands and there are trains to reach Pompeii easily.
Final thoughts on the perfect 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary
The Amalfi Coast well and truly lives up to its reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. This 5 day Amalfi Coast itinerary strikes the perfect balance between getting to see the main highlights and enjoying the relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. Using Sorrento as your base means you can explore the coast’s dramatic beauty while returning each evening to a charming town that feels like the real Italy. The magic of Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast will have you planning your return trip before you’ve even left.
