Ultimate Amalfi Coast Road Trip(6 Epic Days)

If you’ve found yourself daydreaming lately, chances are your mind’s eye has probably taken a leisurely stroll along a winding, sun-kissed road, with jewel-toned houses speckling the steep cliffs, while the Mediterranean’s cerulean hues mirror the infinite sky.

Could it be?

Is your wanderlust yearning for the quintessential European escapade, a thrill-filled road trip down Italy’s scenic Amalfi Coast?

We’re placing our bets on a resounding ‘Yes‘.

From sipping an espresso as the morning sun spills over Positano’s candy-colored homes to exploring ancient, vine-covered ruins in Ravello, and then, bravely, attempting to parallel park in a quaint Sorrento alleyway – here’s your day-by-day guide to the ultimate Amalfi Coast road trip.

Pack your sunnies, grab a map, and let’s fire up that tiny, yet surprisingly zippy Fiat, as we prepare to take on the world’s most beautiful coastline, one breathtaking curve at a time.

Best Time for Road Trip on the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a year-round enchantress, her beauty never fading, only changing hues.

Yet, if you’re planning your ultimate road trip, the question still looms – when is the perfect time to witness this masterpiece?

Spring and autumn, mid-April to June and September to October, are ideal.

The weather is mild, the crowds are fewer, and the coastal colors are at their vibrant best. Spring arrives in a burst of bright, fragrant flowers that line the roads, dot the hills, and hang off balconies, making your road trip a joyous riot of colors.

On the other hand, Autumn arrives with the heady aroma of ripe figs and grapes and casts a soft, golden hue, a postcard-perfect backdrop to your journey.

However, if it’s the sun, sand, and sea you’re after, summer is the season to go. July and August see the coast at its liveliest – the beaches are vibrant with sunbathers, the waters are warm and inviting, and the nights are perfect for alfresco dining. But remember, with the summer sun comes the summer rush. So if you prefer a calmer experience, summer may not be your best bet.

Winter, though considered off-peak, has its own charm. It’s the season to enjoy the coast at its most authentic – serene, uncrowded, with a chance of tasting seasonal treats like Christmas pastries and the famous mulled wine.

Regardless of when you choose to journey down the SS163, remember that the Amalfi Coast is not just a destination, but an experience, a love affair that starts with the turn of the ignition.

Amalfi Coast Road Trip: Day-by-Day Guide

Day 1: Sorrento

As we kickstart this once-in-a-lifetime journey, let’s meet at Sorrento, a charming town perched on the cliff overlooking the Bay of Naples. Sorrento is more than just a picturesque starting point; it’s a destination bursting with history, culture, and a tangy hint of lemon!

Stroll through Piazza Tasso, where Sorrento’s life heart beats. Pay homage to the charming pastel-colored buildings and vibrant sidewalk cafes. Make your way to the historic quarter, where narrow alleys take you past artisanal workshops, churches, and gelaterias.

Once your belly and heart are full, head to Villa Comunale. Watch the sun paint the sky a riot of oranges and purples as it dips into the sea, a memory that will forever be etched in your heart. The essence of Sorrento is pure magic, a fantastic prologue to your Amalfi adventure.

Day 2: Path of the Gods

Now that you’ve acquainted yourself with Sorrento, it’s time to step into nature’s grand amphitheater – the Path of the Gods. This hiking trail runs high above the coast, offering some of the most fantastic views of the Amalfi Coast.

Make your way from Bomerano to Nocelle through a path that whispers the tales of Greek mythology and offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline, the sea, and Capri Island in the distance.

Once you reach Nocelle, relax and celebrate your trek with a well-deserved local meal at Santa Croce. The trek’s strenuousness will fade away in the face of this quaint village’s charm and the flavors of Amalfi. The Path of the Gods, it’s nature’s cinema, shows the blockbuster called Amalfi Coast.

Day 3: Positano

Positano, the vertical town, is where we are headed next. This village, built into the cliff face, presents a riot of colors that is quintessentially Amalfi.

Start your journey on the SS163, an engineering marvel that offers mesmerizing views of the coastline. Once you’ve maneuvered your way to Positano, surrender to its charm.

Wander through the town’s narrow pathways, decorated by bougainvillea flowers and dotted with chic boutiques, cafes, and gelaterias. Don’t forget to visit the colorful dome of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a signature of Positano’s skyline.

As the day retreats, find a cozy spot on the main beach, Spiaggia Grande. Let the sun’s fading rays, the rhythmic sounds of the waves, and the silhouette of the town against the twilight sky paint a picture that’s worth more than a thousand words. Day 3 will remain etched in your memory as a canvas of colors.

Day 4: Conca Dei Marini and Emerald Grotto

We move further down the SS163, and our next stop is Conca Dei Marini, a quiet little town perched high up on the cliffs. We’re not here just for the stunning vistas, though they’re pretty much guaranteed wherever you stand. We’re here for something green, emerald green.

The Grotta dello Smeraldo, or the Emerald Grotto, is our destination. Named after its incredible emerald green hue, this marine cave is a marvel. The sunlight seeping in from an underwater opening gives the cave its unique color, casting an otherworldly light on the stalactites and stalagmites.

A boat tour of the grotto will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fantasy. Conca Dei Marini and the Emerald Grotto will leave you with memories as rich and vivid as the emerald sea.

Day 5: Amalfi and Ravello

Day 5 is when we truly delve into the heart of the Amalfi Coast. Amalfi, the coast’s namesake town, is next on our list. With its striking architecture and vibrant piazzas, it’s a town that wears its rich history like a proud badge.

Explore the town’s maze-like streets, home to artisanal shops and cafes. The star attraction is, of course, the Amalfi Cathedral with its dramatic staircase and impressive facade. Afterward, you can relax on the Marina Grande beach with delicious gelato.

As the sun begins to dip, we wind our way up to Ravello. Known as the city of music, it’s a cultural powerhouse perched in the mountains above the sea.

Visit Villa Rufolo and its enchanting gardens, the inspiration for Wagner’s opera Parsifal. The panoramic view of the coast from the terrace is a sight that words can hardly do justice to.

Amalfi and Ravello, it’s an experience that’s part history, part culture, and a whole lot of beauty.

Day 6: Cetara and Vietri sul Mare

Our final day is dedicated to the flavors of the Amalfi Coast. We start with Cetara, a fishing village known for its excellent seafood. This town is a gastronomical treasure, with its famous local product, the Colatura di Alici (anchovy sauce), being the highlight.

Then, it’s time to bid farewell to the coast at Vietri sul Mare, the last town on our road trip. Vietri is known for its beautiful hand-painted ceramics that have made the town famous all over the world. You might want to take home a souvenir or two as a reminder of this unforgettable journey.

As we wrap up, the flavors of Cetara’s seafood, the vibrant ceramics of Vietri sul Mare, and the memories of the incredible towns we’ve visited remain with us. It’s been an unforgettable journey of stunning landscapes, unique experiences, and the spirit of Amalfi.