How to spend 5 days in the Amalfi coast in Italy

While some might say 5 days in the Amalfi coast isn’t enough, it’s enough to hit the major sights! Although I would agree that you could spend weeks in the gorgeous region and never get bored. Located in the Southern part of Italy, the Amalfi coast is home to some of Italy’s most beautiful coastlines and small villages.

The region is most known for its olives and lemons. In fact, your senses may be in overdrive with all of the amazing colours, food and sounds. I think I could have spent the rest of my life there eating amazing pizza, drinking the limoncello, listening to the beautiful water below and watching excentric people passing by. Okay, I lied, I actually don’t like Limoncello but I’ve been told by those who do like it this is the best place to drink it.

You’ll be hardpressed to find an area in the Amalfi coast that doesn’t take your breath away. I only wish we had more time to go exploring. Because we were there for a wedding, our time was taken up by the festivities so we didn’t get to truly experience it. Although, I saw enough of it to know that I would definitely go back to spend another 5 days in the Amalfi coast!

Not sure where to start?

| Where to stay |

The best place to stay during your 5 days in the Amalfi coast is Sorrento. It’s the best place to be for ease of travel. There are a number of buses, trains and boats that can take you pretty much everywhere you’d want to go on the coast. It’s also the most economical option. There are a number of different options and places to stay, you are bound to find something in your budget.

Sorrento was a pretty bustling town at times because it’s one of the main ports for cruise ships. If you do stay here, try and get out of the town between 10 and 4 to skip the crowds. It’s the perfect opportunity and excuse to get out exploring. If you’re up early enough you can hit the markets before anyone else does.

We stayed at a cute Airbnb in the area, it was easy to get to the main areas, well kept and the hosts were very attentive. There are tons of other hotels that you can choose from as well.

| Click here for hotels in Sorrento |

| Day one: Sorrento |

Depending on what time you arrive, you’ll probably want to spend some of the day relaxing. Half of a day exploring would be plenty to see Sorrento. Get lost in the main streets, wandering through the open markets and family-owned shops. Piazza Tasso is the main square of the city and a great spot for grabbing lunch or just a drink to watch the people pass by.

A little ways down the road from the Piazza, you’ll find Vallone dei Mulini. Dating back 35,000 years, the Vallone is a deep mountain cleft and natural phenomenon. We actually stumbled upon this by accident but I’m so glad we did! It’s very unassuming, it wasn’t until I looked over a cliff and looked a little closer that I realized what I was looking at.

If the weather is in your favour, make your way down to the water and arena. The views are beautiful, walking through the cliffs down to the water. Once you get there make sure to look behind you as much as in front. The sprawling cliffside is sure to surprise you.

| Day two: Pompeii |

This is one of the things I wish we had have done but didn’t get the chance to do. Pompeii. It’s only a short train ride away from Sorrento. As with any popular destination, I’ve heard it’s better to get there early so you can make sure to avoid the crowds.

If you’re not aware Pompeii, it was a vibrant and busy town in Southern Italy back in 79AD. Mount Vesuvius erupted one-day unbeknownst to the villagers below. All 20,000 residents were buried under ash exactly as they were in that moment.

The Luxe Adventure Traveler has a fantastic resource that will help you plan a DIY day trip. From what I’ve read, you could easily spend an entire day roaming the area, admiring the history and art.

| Day three: Positano |

You can’t visit the Amalfi coast without visiting Positano, it’s probably the most photographed spot in the Amalfi. This gorgeous town is an easy bus ride away. I will warn anyone who suffers from motion sickness, take something to help your stomach on the way. If you don’t, make sure to get a window seat on the coastline side. There are times that you’ll feel as if the bus is going to topple over the side at any minute but you’re safe.

Half a day will be plenty in Positano. Make your way from the bus stop down to the beach. Along the way you will cross plenty of souvenir shops, art galleries, family run restaurants and pottery shops.

The best way to spend your time in Positano is on the beach or hiking for the epic views. Grab a bite at one of the few restaurants along the beach and enjoy a fantastic glass of wine. Just thinking about our afternoon spent there makes me want to go back!

| Day four: Island day |

There are so many different islands to choose from this is your day to explore! Do some research before your 5 days in the Amalfi coast to be sure which island is best for you.

Capri, Ischia or Procida are the most popular islands for tourists. In terms of ease in transport, Capri island would be your best bet. It’s also the most visited island. You can spend your day shopping at the boutique stores or exploring Anacapri.

Ischia is the perfect spot for nature lovers. If you enjoyed visiting Iceland than you’ll enjoy Ischia with its black sand beach and thermal springs.

| Day five: make it your own |

On your last day in the Amalfi coast, make it your own. There are plenty of other little towns and regions to see, it’s almost hard to list them all! Whether it’s the popular Amalfi or the infamous Ravello, be sure to find the spot that fits your desires. Whatever you choose to do in your last of 5 days in the Amalfi coast, make it count!