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Drawing upon years of personal exploration and extensive research, I’ve curated an immersive 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary that encapsulates the region’s best. Experience the dazzling cliff-lined coast, azure waters and enchanting villages, visiting iconic spots and hidden treasures alike. Embark on an unforgettable Amalfi journey!
I’ve been visiting the Amalfi Coast since childhood, and no visit has ever disappointed.
Stretching for 30 miles from Sorrento to Amalfi, the Amalfi Coast is characterised by high cliffs, winding roads and colourful villages that seem to sprout from the rock. So special is this entire stretch of coastline, that it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Awarded to locations with outstanding physical or cultural significance, the Amalfi Coast received its UNESCO listing in 1997 for both its physical beauty and the important role it played in maritime history.
While its dramatic landscape has long been a popular destination for tourists, its UNESCO listing has helped to ensure that this natural beauty will be preserved for future generations to come.
In addition to its inclusion for what are obvious physical charms, the Amalfi Coast also has a rich cultural history. The town of Amalfi was a powerful maritime republic in the 1st-4th centuries, and its influence was felt throughout the Orient and the West.
Positano and Ravello, too, have interesting histories that are explored further in this post.
The various civilizations that have occupied the Amalfi Coast over the centuries have left their mark on both its architecture and cuisine.
While the region has largely come to be associated with glamour and high prices, it is in fact an enjoyable destination for travellers who appreciate both natural beauty and historic significance.
The most famous town on the Amalfi Coast is probably the now-glitzy Positano, but truthfully, it is just one of many other charming outposts along this stupendously beautiful stretch of coast, with elegant hilltop towns like Ravello and lesser-known villages such as Minori well worth paying a visit to also.
4 days in the Amalfi Coast will allow you some time to fall totally under the spell of its charms. If you’ve got a week, then you have a perfect opportunity to append a couple of days in Naples, Southern Italy’s vastly overlooked capital city that is swimming in culture and peeling grandeur.
Having spent a significant part of my life journeying through this picturesque region and supplementing these experiences with extensive research, I’ve curated this Amalfi Coast 4-day itinerary to reflect the region’s true essence.
From iconic landscapes to hidden culinary delights, my personal insights will help you navigate the alluring paths of the Amalfi Coast like a seasoned explorer.
Essential links for booking your Amalfi Coast trip
Book your airport transfer with Welcome Pickups
Search schedules and buy ferry tickets here.
Top rated Amalfi Coast experiences
☆ Pompeii small-group tour with an archaeologist (Cultured Voyages top pick)
☆ Amalfi Coast Boat Rental (for a truly memorable day out)
☆ Scooter rental on the Amalfi Coast (make getting around a cinch)
☆ Walk, Cook & Eat on Amalfi Coast (great for foodies)
☆ Carmine’s Amalfi Coast SECRET Tour (discover hidden gems)
Top places to stay on Amalfi Coast: Hotel Conca d’Oro (boutique beauty in Positano) // Orto Paradiso (affordable hidden gem with pool) // Gala Residence Villa Giovanna (a slick Ravello B&B)
Incredible Amalfi Coast vacation rentals:
Citrus & Sea Salt // I’m All Aglow // Amalfi Postcard
Don’t forget to pack: // DK Eyewitness Naples and the Amalfi Coast (Travel Guide) // The Talented Mr Ripley // Universal travel adapter // these **fantastic** compression packing cubes // Bite & itch relief pen (for those pesky mosquito bites)
Planning your Amalfi Coast 4 day itinerary
This post will take you through logistical matters, such as getting to and around the Amalfi Coast, as well as through a carefully planned itinerary that shows you all sides of the Amalfi Coast and maximises your time in each place over a four-day period.
Once you are armed with all the relevant facts and things you need to know, you will be more than well-positioned to have an incredible time in this dazzling region.
Are 4 days enough for the Amalfi Coast?
4 days are enough for the Amalfi Coast if you are organised and have a good plan in place. There’s so much to see and do in this stunning region, so it’s important to prioritise what you want to experience the most. With a little bit of planning, you can easily see plenty of highlights when you have four days to play with.
You’ll also, more than likely, be desperately keen to come back and discover more. If you need help with that, I have written this 10-day Amalfi Coast itinerary to aid in your travel planning.
Best time to visit the Amalfi Coast
The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is from April to October when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, keep in mind that the busiest times are from June to August. September and October are both great months to visit as there are fewer people and the weather is still warm enough to sunbathe.
In terms of personal preference, I tend to plan any Amalfi Coast travel plans in September. By October, things may start to wind down on the Amalfi Coast, with the likes of beach clubs closing for the season in October, so if this is important to you then September is the month to choose.
How to get to the Amalfi Coast
You will likely access the Amalfi Coast via Naples, from either its airport or the train station. From Naples, you then have a number of choices.
Getting to the Amalfi Coast by car
The fastest way of getting to the Amalfi Coast from Naples is by car. As I don’t recommend driving on the Amalfi Coast where you can help it, your next best option is to hire a private transfer, which although pricey, can be incredibly worth it when you only have 4 days for your Amalfi Coast trip.
BOOK | Book your Naples to Amalfi Coast transfer here
Getting to the Amalfi Coast by train
You will not be able to get the whole way to Positano from Naples by train. You must first get the train as far as Sorrento, where you will then terminate. From Sorrento, you have one of several options to reach Positano.
First is by vehicle – either by private transport (book one here) or by Sita bus, which runs frequently.
Secondly, in the summer months, you can also travel to Positano from Sorrento by ferry, although this is only run seasonally and is nowhere near as regular as the Sita bus.
That only gets you part of the way and you will then need to make your way to Positano and then switch trains there for the final leg of your journey.
BOOK | Search train timetables and buy tickets here
Getting to the Amalfi Coast by ferry
My favourite way to get around the Amalfi Coast is by ferry and it’s possible, at the right time of year, to make the entire journey from Naples to Positano (and subsequent towns along the coastline) by ferry.
These, however, are only run in the summer season and the times may not suit you. If this is the case, opt for a private transfer or the train and bus/taxi option. You can check schedules here in advance before making a decision, however.
BOOK | Search timetables and buy ferry tickets here
How to get around the Amalfi Coast
There are three main ways that I would recommend getting around the Amalfi Coast:
1. Getting around the Amalfi Coast by bus
The SITA bus is probably the most common way to get around the Amalfi Coast, connecting all of the towns on the coast.
Tickets can be bought from local shops, and schedules can be found online. However, due to the nature of the traffic on the Amalfi Coast, buses may arrive late or not at all when expected – you’ve been warned!
2. Getting around the Amalfi Coast by ferry
Ferries are a great way to get around the Amalfi Coast, as they offer spectacular views of the coastline and journey times are drastically cut due to there being no traffic jams involved!
You can purchase your tickets in advance or at the ferry, but it’s a good idea to purchase them in advance during the busy summer months.
BOOK | Check ferry schedules and book tickets in advance here
3. Getting around the Amalfi Coast by scooter
If you have the confidence and/or experience to drive one, another wonderful way to get around the Amalfi Coast is by scooter, as it offers flexibility and you can easily navigate the narrow roads.
BOOK | You can book a scooter here.
What about getting around by car?
The narrow roads and dense traffic on the Amalfi Coast make driving a car a bad idea. I have visited with a car, and without, and I can say without hesitation that getting around by car is not enjoyable if you are the driver (or even the passenger, it’s quite the white-knuckle experience).
Furthermore, parking is very scarce and expensive so it really isn’t worth the hassle if you ask me.
4 days in Amalfi Coast: where to base yourself
When planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is where to base yourself. There are many towns and villages to choose from, each with its own unique charms and advantages.
This Amalfi Coast 4 day itinerary places you in Positano for 2 nights, Minori for 1 night and Ravello for 1 night, but if you want to stick to one base only, below is a brief synopsis of some towns that might suit you, based on your specific needs and circumstances.
- Most romantic – Ravello | This stunning cliffside village is the perfect place for a romantic getaway. With its breathtaking views, elegant villas and lush gardens, Ravello will knock your socks off with its beauty.
- Most central – Amalfi | The historic town of Amalfi is the most central location on the Amalfi Coast. It’s easy to get around and there are plenty of buses and ferries that transit through the town. Plus, it doesn’t lack attractions: here you can find churches, museums, art galleries and other interesting sites.
- Most glamorous – Positano | Positano is the celebrity hotspot of the Amalfi Coast. Just be prepared for crowds, steep streets and pricey restaurants. But if you’re looking for somewhere glamorous to spend your vacation, that’s where you need to be!
- Most beachy – Maiori | If you’re all about getting away from the hustle and bustle of the larger towns, Maiori is a great option. With its long beach promenade, lovely beaches, and relaxed atmosphere, this small coastal town is perfect for those looking to spend their days soaking up some sun.
- Most local – Minori | Minori is a great place to get away from it all and discover the true essence of the Amalfi Coast. The town is off the beaten path, and it’s a perfect spot for getting to know the locals and savouring delicious regional cuisine.
Looking for a vacation rental in the Amalfi Coast?
Plum Guide (my favourite rental platform) offers a superb, curated collection of vacation rentals along the Amalfi Coast, suitable for a range of party sizes.
4 Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary
In this next section, discover how to uncover the best of the Amalfi Coast in 4 days. This itinerary will take you to some of the most beautiful towns and villages on the coast, including Positano, Capri, Minori and Ravello.
You’ll experience everything from stunning cliffside views to elegant villas to sandy beaches. Let’s jump in!
Amalfi Coast in 4 days: Day 1 – Positano
Positano is one of the best-known towns on the Amalfi Coast, and for good reason. It’s located in a beautiful setting between the mountains and the sea, with dramatic views from almost every angle. The town is also home to some lovely churches, art galleries, and other attractions.
The cobbled lanes and hidden alleyways of Positano are a delight to explore, always providing new glimpses of the picturesque townscape. The vibrant bougainvillea, unique architecture, and tempting storefronts are all make a lovely feast for the eyes.
If you can nab somewhere with a view, watching the sun set over the Mediterranean from one’s own private terrace is a perfect way to end an afternoon of exploration in this special place.
A brief history of Positano
Positano is an ancient town with a long and storied history. The Greek God of the Sea, Poseidon, is said to have founded the town in honour of Pasitea, a beautiful Greek Nymph that he was enamoured with.
It is believed that Greeks ships first called on this small town and other parts of the Amalfi Coast as far back as 500 BC.
When their time came, the Romans found Positano’s beauty irresistible, and so they built lavish villas and began settling there around 100 years B.C. However, their settlement was destroyed in 79 A.D., when nearby Mount Vesuvius erupted.
Positano thrived as a market port from the 15th through 17th centuries due to its affiliation with the Amalfi Republic. However, Positano fell on hard times in the mid 1800s, leading more than half of its population to immigrate to America–most notably to New York City.
Positano was a poor little fishing village by the first half of the 20th century. But then, in the early 1950s, artists began to visit. In 1953, John Steinbeck wrote his now-famous article for Harper’s Bazaar magazine titled “Positano Bites Deep.”
Positano’s popularity as a top vacation destination skyrocketed from that point on, increasing decade upon decade to reach the popularity that it now has today.
What to do in Positano
There are several ways in which you can spend your day in Positano and you’ll likely have to pick just one or two of these options with only a day to spend.
Lounge on the beach | There are two main beaches in Positano – Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo. Both offer stunning views of the coastline, crystal clear waters, and plenty of sunbathing spots.
Explore the streets and shops | If you’d rather stay away from the beach, spend your day exploring Positano’s narrow streets and boutique shops. Here you can find handmade leather goods, pottery and ceramics, local jewellery, and other souvenirs to take home with you.
Historic sites | Positano is home to some notable historic sites, including the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and its beautiful mosaics.
Of particular note, don’t miss the chance to explore the Roman Villa, buried during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79AD and which was discovered under the crypt of the church. Tickets cost €15 and it’s best to book in advance.
Path of the Gods hike | For those looking for a bit of an adventure, the Path of the Gods hike is a must-do. This stunning trek will take you along cliffside trails with breathtaking views. It’s best to start early from Nocelle and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Celeb spot at Da Adolfo | Make your way towards the port and look for a boat with a red fish nailed onto the mast – this is your free shuttle to Da Adolfo, a small but legendary restaurant and beach club located in a little cove.
Make sure to book in advance to reserve your table and your sunbed on the beach.
Foodie gems in Positano
For the foodies among you, Positano is home to some of the best restaurants on the Amalfi Coast. I recommend starting your evening with aperitivo at The Terrace Bar before moving on to dinner at Zass Restaurant at Il San Pietro di Positano for Michelin-starred dining.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a place with more moderate prices, try Bruno instead. This casual and buzzy spot offers fabulous views of the Amalfi Coast and great food to match! Make sure to book ahead and ask for a table with a view.
If you’re still feeling lively after your meal, cap your evening off with a nighttime stroll through Positano and a post-dinner drink at the stylish Franco’s Bar, located at Le Sirenuse.
Where to stay in Positano
HIGH END LUXURY
Il San Pietro di Positano
Il San Pietro di Positano holds itself in lofty company, as it is often listed among the best hotels in the world.
With such accolades come a hefty price tag, but Il San Pietro offers a Michelin-starred restaurant (Zass), a cliff-side elevator down to a private beach, exceptional views and a little bit of peace and quiet in what is an otherwise teeming location.
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Boutique bolthole
Hotel Conca d’Oro
With beautiful views of the shimmering blue sea and coastline, Hotel Conca d’Oro is a wonderful option. There is a panoramic terrace with a hot tub, complete with sun loungers and parasols and meals are served by candlelight on the sea-view terrace. There is a small beach 500m away too.
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Affordable luxury
Hotel Casa Albertina
If you’re searching for exceptional views without an exorbitant price tag, then take a look at Hotel Casa Albertina.
Located a mere 10-minute walk from a sandy beach in Positano, Hotel Casa Albertina features a terrace with views of the sea and a bar and charming traditional Amalfi Coast decor.
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Luxe Vacation rental
Blue roses
Perfect for two people, Blue Roses is a luxe apartment rental in Positano, with a fantastic sun terrace complete with loungers and endless views of the blue, blue sea.
Interiors follow a gorgeous blue and white colour scheme and location-wise, a host of cafés and restaurants are on your doorstep.
Amalfi Coast in 4 days: Day 2 – Capri
The magical isle of Capri draws one in like an irresistibly sweet siren – indeed, it is at Capri that the sirens called to Ulysses’ sailors in Homer’s Odyssey. The azure waters, the jagged rocks and the lush greenery all combine to create a landscape of unparalleled beauty.
Capri has been pulling in the rich and famous for centuries, dating way back to the notorious Roman Emperor Tiberius, who holed himself up on the island, built several palaces and got up to all manner of misdeeds in the 1st century AD.
Whether it’s the history, the natural beauty, or the glamour of Capri that attracts you, I suggest that you include the island in your 4 days on the Amalfi Coast – so you are off on a day trip to Capri!
Sadly, you can expect Capri to be heavily visited – and that goes for pretty much all year round – but no matter how crowded it may be, put up with a little bit of elbowing and allow the island to work its magic on you.
Take in the fresh sea air, explore the winding alleyways and get ready to be amazed by the sights.
My best advice to enjoy Capri is one of two things; the first is to ensconce yourself in a luxury crash-pad during the day and wait for the day-trippers to dissipate come evening time.
Since you are one of those day-trippers in this instance, then my second piece of advice is to take yourself as far away as possible from those other day-trippers once you get there.
Despite Capri being relatively small, it’s amazing to what degree people deem to converge on Capri town’s main Piazzetta and the areas surrounding it – walk away from here and the crowds will start to vanish.
RELATED READING | Escape to Paradise: The Insider’s Guide to Visiting Capri
What to do on Capri
You’ll have to pick and choose only a couple of things to see and do in Capri in one day, but here are some of my suggestions:
Villa Jovis | Pay a visit to Emperor Tiberius’ former palace – a magnificent complex perched atop the cliffs and filled with ruins of what was once an opulent retreat. It’s amazing to think this palace has been standing since 27 AD, and it is definitely worth a visit if you are interested in Roman history.
Villa Lysis | The former home of the Parisian count Jacques d’Adelswärd Fersen, a Parisian count who fled to Capri to escape scandal, Villa Lysis is an unexpected surprise. Built in 1904, the villa was a gathering place for artists and intellectuals who were drawn to its beauty.
Gardens of Augustus and Via Krupp | The Gardens of Augustus are comprised of a series of panoramic flower-decked terraces overlooking the Faraglioni on one side and the Bay of Marina Piccola and Via Krupp on the other.
Mont Solaro | The highest and most panoramic point on the island, it offers an unrivalled view across the whole of Capri and further afield. The easiest way to get there is by taking the chairlift from Piazza Vittoria in Anacapri, which takes just 12 minutes.
Alternatively, if you fancy a bit of exercise then you can walk up to the summit in between an hour and an hour and a half.
Villa Michele | This lovely villa was built by the Swedish doctor Axel Munthe in 1885 on the ruins of an ancient chapel dedicated to St. Michele. The building is articulated onto various levels and the gardens and terrace with all their romantic columns offer incredible views of the expanse of blue waters below.
Take a boat tour | For the true essence of Capri, you can’t beat a boat tour. Head down to Marina Piccola, where you can join a budget-friendly group tour like this one. Alternatively, hire a private boat – this private boat tour has a host of wonderful reviews.
That way, you’ll have the flexibility of setting the agenda for the day, can stop off for swims and you’ll have a knowledgeable guide and photographer on hand! Stops to include are the famous Blue Grotto and the Faraglioni Rocks.
Visit a beach club | While away some hours at the Insta-famous La Fontelina, with its iconic blue and white striped deck chairs. If you’d prefer something a little more authentic, then try Bagni Tinerio, which has a sandy beach. For ultimate luxury, head to Il Riccio Beach Club in Anacapri.
RELATED READING | Capri or Ischia: Which Island Paradise Should You Choose?
Getting to Capri from Positano
Getting from Positano to Capri is easy – simple take the direct ferry from Positano to Capri. During the high season, make sure to check schedules and reserve in advance – you can do so here. The fast ferry will take you to Capri in just under one hour and the price is around €20 each way.
Make sure to book your return ferry to Positano and be at the port in Capri with time to spare when it’s time to return to Positano.
Foodie gems in Capri
La Capannina is a 1930s trattoria, located under an archway in Capri town and offering regional dishes. They catered extremely well for my gluten free requirements and offered a very professional service.
If you’d prefer something more low-key, head to Lo Sfizio, located on Via Tiberio, for some delicious Italian cooking.
Where to stay for night 2 of this 4 days Amalfi Coast itinerary
On night two of this 4 day Amalfi Coast itinerary, I recommend that you overnight once more in Positano, before making your way to Minori the following morning by ferry.
Amalfi Coast in 4 days: Day 3 – Minori
Minori is an unfettered gem amongst the other towns of the Amalfi Coast, offering rustic beauty, charm and a sense of undisturbed peace to those who visit.
In comparison to its livelier neighbours, Minori offers a break from the hustle and bustle that can be so overwhelming along the Amalfi Coast and I’ve spent several happy, super-relaxed days in Minori ambling from pool to trattoria, beach to quiet piazza.
It’s for that very reason that I’ve included it on the roster for your 4 days in Amalfi Coast.
Despite being so close to the likes of Amalfi town, it is far less frequented by non-Italian tourists and offers a glimpse into what the Amalfi Coast might have been like a few decades ago, when its most popular towns were free of the masses they experience today.
At its centre, the ruins of a Roman villa offer an intriguing insight into the past, while a nice smattering of trattoria and local stores provide all you need for your visit.
Plus, regular ferries from the small harbour make it fantastically located for exploring the rest of Amalfi Coast and also serve to add to this sleepy town’s charm.
In short, Minori is a place that offers peace and authenticity, with its own unique brand of Italian culture and hospitality. As such, it’s a wonderful option if you’re looking for more than just the typical Amalfi tourist experience.
Ultimately, your third day here will be one to remember as you enjoy all that Minori has to offer: gorgeous scenery, excellent food and a laid-back atmosphere of calm.
Things to do in Minori
I wouldn’t recommend doing a whole lot while in Minori, but should you wish to go for a ramble then the following may pique your interest:
Spend time at the small beach and lido | Minori beach is a lovely place to relax for a few hours. About 250m long, there are three lidos in the middle where you can rent sun beds for the day, or alternatively there are free spots on either side of the lido.
Facing south, the beach of Minori gets the sun for most of the day and is really close to the shops and restaurants of Minori town, so you can come and go easily.
Visit the Roman villa ruins | At the heart of the town are the remains of the Villa Romana, a Roman villa that succumbed to the eruption of Vesuvius in 79AD and was buried beneath the town of Minori for many centuries until it was discovered in 1932.
There is a small museum and visitors are free to walk through its underground chambers, which retain some exceptionally well preserved frescoes.
Fill up on local pasta dishes | Of course, no visit to Minori would be complete without trying scialatielli – the local pasta dish. Thick ribbons of dough are flavoured with seafood or sauces, making it an ideal order if you’re looking for some good old fashioned Italian comfort food.
Explore by water or foot | If you’d like to explore the area on foot, then the Sentiero dei Limoni, or “Lemon Walk”, is a great option. This short hike takes you through dozens of lemon groves and offers some stunning views of the Amalfi Coast before ending in Maiori – all within an hour if you include a few stops to take in the view.
You could also opt to hop on the ferry for a spin over to Amalfi – it’s only around 15 minutes’ away and very doable in a couple of hours.
Enjoy the scenery and hospitality of Minori | Above all, don’t forget to take some time and simply enjoy the scenery and hospitality of Minori. This is a wonderful spot for people watching as it offers a glimpse into local life amidst stunning views and delicious food.
Relax in one of its many cafés, perhaps with an Aperol Spritz in hand – after all, you deserve it!
How to get from Positano to Minori
It’s possible to reach Minori from Positano by one of three ways; by taxi, by Sita bus or by ferry. You know which option I’m going to suggest here.
If you’re travelling between April and October, take the ferry from the port at Positano, from which the journey will take a bit over an hour and will take in some beautiful snippets of the coastline along the way.
Whatever about it being the most convenient way, I’d recommend this method for the views alone!
Foodie gems in Minori
Try the long-standing Giardiniello, with a plant-filled, covered terrace, for a more upscale, artfully plated meal and some pretty great pizza too.
La Botte is a complete gem, authentic and quaint with local dishes and mouth-watering pizzas at extremely reasonable prices.
Should you be a fan of pastries, then Minori just happens to be home to the Amalfi Coast’s most famous pastry chef – head to Salvatore De Riso’s pastry shop to stock up.
Where to stay in Minori
Luxe for less
Orto Paradiso
I stayed at this beautiful bed and breakfast in Minori and it is a true gem. Set amidst terraces and gardens and owned by an artist, this truly aesthetic property comes kitted out with a lovely pool for lounging by and some insanely divine views of the town of Minori below.
Note that it’s a little tricky to get too, but if you don’t mind some steps then the climb is worth the views.
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Seaside charm
Palazzo Vingius
Located a mere 50 steps away from the beach of Minori, this dreamy respite offers rooms with terracotta floors and Vietri handmade ceramics, along with some beautiful sea views.
Rise awake each morning to a breakfast of freshly-baked croissants, cappuccino coffee and jams served up in a panoramic breakfast room complete with a bar.
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Boutique beauty
Minori Palace
This elegant and reasonably priced hotel is located in the heart of Minori town and is a straight walk down the street to the beach. If sand isn’t really your thing, it also has what so few accommodations in Minori do – a pool, fringed by sun loungers that are perfect for spending lazy afternoons on.
Amalfi Coast in 4 days: Day 4 – Ravello
Ravello oozes with a quiet, dignified sophistication that the nearby towns of the Amalfi Coast (such as Amalfi and Positano) find out of their reach.
While you may have to deal with a busy town centre during the day, that is easily remedied by choosing some sublime Ravello lodging that offers access to those impeccable views on tap while the day trippers are in town, before emerging to find the town very much your own in the latter part of the day.
The views from Ravello are positively breathtaking and unparalleled anywhere else on the coast. What makes Ravello so special is its unique mix of attributes that cannot be found elsewhere.
From the mountaintop position that offers sweeping views, to the charming and picturesque streets, Ravello is a must-see destination for any visitor to the Amalfi Coast.
A brief history of Ravello
The hilltop hamlet of Ravello owes its prosperity to the Duchy of Amalfi, where it found success along with the Maritime Republic of Amalfi in the 10th century and onwards.
Trade with North Arab Africa and the Byzantine Empire stimulated Ravello’s growth, as the town prospered from the gold acquired through trade with Arab centres along the African coast, and the luxury goods and fabrics obtained from Byzantium.
Reflecting back on the history of Ravello, it is fascinating to see how it flourished during the Middle Ages. This was a time when multiple civil and religious buildings were built in Arab-Sicilian style, and when wealthy, patriarchal families began to build sumptuous dwellings such as the 13th century Villa Rufolo in the town.
However, as with all things, this period of prosperity was not to last. The town declined in the 14th century, and it wasn’t until the 17th century that the plague decimated its population. This left the glory days of Ravello as mere whispers of memory.
Things to do in Ravello
You can get the full run down on what to do in Ravello here, but some things to do include:
Visit Villa Cimbrone | Visit these stunning gardens appended to an elegant 11th century manor for some of the best views in the world (a big statement, I know).
Make your way to the famous Infinity Terrace (Terrazze dell’Infinito), known also as the Belvedere) for prime viewing. If you can, visit at sunset for an otherworldly experience.
Visit Villa Rufolo | Located just off Ravello’s town square, Piazza Vescovado, Villa Rufolo is a regal, patrician villa which was originally built in the 13th century. The villa is home to some beautiful gardens – so beautiful, in fact, that they inspired Wagner when writing Parsifal.
Discover churches | Ravello is home to a number of churches, it’s best known and visible being the Duomo in the town’s main square. Like the majority of Italian churches, each have something worth peeping in to look at, including frescoes, altarpieces and mosaics.
Go shopping | The main streets of Ravello are home to a variety of charming shops and boutiques, selling everything from ceramics to cashmere. The stores here are less touristy than in some of the neighboring towns, making it a great place to find quality ceramics and clothing.
Take a hike | A nice walk to take is from Ravello to Amalfi, which is around 4km away. You can reach Amalfi via pedestrian pathways via Atrani and take the bus back to Ravello. Another beautiful walk is the Minori-Ravello section of the Lemon Walk that runs to Maoiri.
Listen to some music | Ravello is famous as a musical centre, each year hosting the Ravello Music Festival in July and August.
There is a suspended stage erected in the gardens of Villa Rufolo and many famous artists perform. Ravello is also home to the Auditorium Oscar Niemeyer, at which performances are hosted throughout the year.
How to get to Ravello from Minori
As Ravello is located inland, you will need to go by vehicle from Minori. It’s easiest to take a taxi (which despite the short trip of around 10 minutes costs around €60) or alternatively, you can take a Sita bus to Amalfi and then from there, hop on another bus for the short journey to Ravello.
Foodie gems in Ravello
Rosellini’s is a stunning Michelin starred restaurant set in Palazzo Avino hotel. Here you’ll find regional cuisine with a creative twist that will definitely tantalise your taste buds – l adored our meal here.
Da Salvatore has a terrace providing unparalleled views and the menu boasts high quality and creative dishes, with the wood-fired pizza oven being a central feature of the restaurant space.
Vittoria is a family-run, traditional restaurant. Delicious seafood pasta can be found here, as well as pizza.
Where to stay in Ravello
As Ravello is located so close to Minori, you could opt to stay another night in Minori and make your way to Ravello for the day or vice versa; choose Ravello if you want a romantic escape and Minori if you are a little more budget-conscious.
High-end luxury
Palazzo Avino
Known to locals as the ‘Pink Palace’, this beautiful hotel at the highest point of Ravello offers unbelievable views of the sea far, far below (and has access to it’s own private beach).
It’s also home to the stupendous Rossellini’s Restaurant, which it’s safe to say, probably offers some of the best views in the world.
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Boutique beauty
Villa Piedimonte
The four star hotel Villa Piedimonte offers pared back elegance and bright, spacious rooms, the majority of which come with sea views – some come with their own terraces, too.
There is a pool onsite with plenty of sun loungers, which makes this hotel the perfect place to enjoy both some R&R and the charms of Ravello town.
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Luxe for less
Gala Residence Villa Giovanna
A beautifully stylish boutique bed and breakfast, Gala Residence Villa Giovanna is a wonderful choice for Ravello. While there is no pool onsite, the views from this property are simply outstanding and there is a large terrace on which you can enjoy your surroundings.
Some of the slick, nautically themed rooms also come with a terrace of their own.
4 days Amalfi Coast Itinerary map
So you can see this proposed itinerary in context, take a look at the map below, which marks each spot and shows the route between each.
Where to go if you have more than 4 days
In an attempt to bring balance between some of the Amalfi Coast’s iconic spots along with some of the more authentic, there are some places that have been left off this Amalfi Coast 4 day itinerary in the interests of time.
Some other places (in alphabetical order) that you can consider subbing in include the following:
Amalfi | The beach-filled epicentre of the Amalfi Coast and its most-famous town after Positano.
Atrani | A picturesque fishing village to the east of Amalfi and the west of Minori.
Cetara | A lively seaside village known for its anchovy-based cuisine.
Erchie | A small fishing village on the Salerno side of the Amalfi Coast and home to a picturesque beach.
Furore | A small town with an impressive ravine and a man-made bridge connecting the two sides.
Maiori | The pristine beach and lively town with a reputation for being family-friendly.
Praiano | A laid-back commune with a mix of delightful beaches, cliffside walks, and local restaurants.
Salerno | A charming city further south with a stunning Duomo and waterfront.
Sorrento | A lively city on the Sorrentine Peninsula known for its wonderful views and delicious food.
Vietri sul Mare | Famous for its colourful ceramics, Vietri sul Mare is a must-visit spot for anyone interested in traditional crafts.
Amalfi Coast travel tips
When traveling to the Amalfi Coast, there are certain things you should keep in mind and I will do my best to summarise some of the more pertinent ones here.
There’s more to the Amalfi Coast than Positano
The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful destination with plenty to offer tourists. However, many people only visit Positano and miss out on the other amazing towns and villages that make up this region.
Some of my favourite towns to visit on the Amalfi Coast for example are Ravello and Minori, with smaller places like Atrani and Furore being utterly charming too. Each town has its own unique charm, and all are well worth a visit.
So if you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, be sure to explore beyond Positano!
Sorrento and Capri are not the Amalfi Coast
Sorrento and Capri (Ischia and Procida too) are not technically on the Amalfi Coast, so if you spend all your time in Sorrento, as gorgeous as it is then I hate to break it to you but you won’t “officially” have been to the Amalfi Coast – not that it really matters, as they are both well worth a visit in their own right.
Ferries are your friend
Ferries are a great way to get around the Amalfi Coast. They avoid the bad traffic and roads, which makes it a lot easier to get around. They also run regularly and connect all towns along the coast that have a harbour, all the way from Salerno to Naples.
Try not to drive
The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful destination with plenty to offer tourists, but I don’t recommend driving there. The roads are narrow and often congested, and the traffic is unpredictable – it’s just not worth the hassle.
There are much better ways to get around, like taking the ferries that run regularly along the coast. So if you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, I recommend avoiding the hassle of driving and instead use the many other transportation options available to you.
Accommodation books up so far in advance
If you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance. Many of the best places fill up months before people’s travel dates, so it’s important to reserve your spot as soon as possible.
There are plenty of great places to stay on the coast that can really make your trip fabulous, but they tend to get booked up quickly, so don’t wait too long!
Beware the stairs!
The Amalfi Coast is a stunning part of Italy, but it’s also quite hilly. This means that many of the towns and villages are perched on hills, with steep and uneven steps everywhere.
This can be a bit daunting for visitors who aren’t used to it, but it’s just something you have to deal with when travelling in this region.
Provided you don’t have mobility issues, then the upside to all the stairs is that they offer great exercise – something that’s definitely needed considering all the amazing food you’ll no doubt be eating while on holiday here!
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