Home › Itineraries › 3 Days

Three Days in Paradise: The Essential Amalfi Coast

Dramatic Cliffs, Azure Waters, and Timeless Italian Charm

Trip Overview

This three-day itinerary captures the essence of Italy's most stunning coastline, balancing iconic viewpoints with hidden gems. You'll explore the vertical villages of Ravello and Amalfi, hike the legendary Path of the Gods with breathtaking Mediterranean vistas, and discover the region's artisan traditions from papermaking to lemon cultivation. The pace allows time to savor long lunches overlooking the sea, wander through medieval cloisters, and watch sunset paint the cliffs gold. This journey combines active exploration with dolce far niente—the sweet art of doing nothing—giving you both adventure and authentic coastal living. Each day is designed to minimize transit time while maximizing the diversity of experiences, from dramatic coastal drives to intimate village discoveries.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$150-250 per day
Best Seasons
April to June and September to October for ideal weather and fewer crowds
Ideal For
First-time visitors to the Amalfi Coast, Couples seeking romance, Photography enthusiasts, Active travelers who enjoy hiking, Culture and history lovers

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Ravello Heights & Cultural Treasures

Ravello and Amalfi
Begin your Amalfi Coast adventure in the hilltop paradise of Ravello, exploring stunning villas and gardens, before descending to historic Amalfi to discover its maritime heritage.
Morning
Villa Rufolo and Ravello exploration
Start your day in cloud-kissing Ravello, perched 365 meters above the sea. Explore the magnificent Villa Rufolo, a 13th-century palace with terraced gardens that inspired Wagner's Parsifal. The panoramic views from the gardens stretch across the Gulf of Salerno, offering one of the coast's most photographed vistas. Wander the quiet piazzas and artisan shops of this elegant village, where time moves slower than on the coast below.
3 hours $8
Arrive early (by 9 AM) to enjoy the gardens before tour groups arrive
Lunch
A terrace restaurant in Ravello's main square with panoramic coastal views
Traditional Campanian cuisine featuring local seafood and handmade pasta Mid-range
Afternoon
Amalfi town exploration and Paper Museum
Descend to Amalfi and visit the fascinating Paper Museum, housed in a restored medieval paper mill. Learn about the town's centuries-old tradition of handmade paper production with working demonstrations of ancient techniques. Afterwards, explore the Ancient Arsenal of the Republic of Amalfi, where maritime vessels were built during the town's powerful republic era. Stroll through the historic center and visit the Paradise Cloister, a stunning Arab-Norman architectural gem with interlaced arches.
3-4 hours $15
Evening
Sunset at Saint Andrew's Fountain Amalfi and dinner
Watch locals gather at the historic fountain in Piazza Duomo as evening settles, then enjoy dinner at a family-run trattoria in Amalfi's old town featuring fresh catch of the day and local limoncello

Where to Stay Tonight

Amalfi town center (A charming hotel or B&B within walking distance of the cathedral square)

Staying in Amalfi provides central access to both coastal and mountain attractions, with evening ambiance after day-trippers depart

The bus from Ravello to Amalfi offers spectacular views—sit on the right side going downhill for the best coastal panoramas
Day 1 Budget: $180-280
2

Hiking Heaven: The Path of the Gods

Bomerano to Nocelle (Positano area)
Embark on the Amalfi Coast's most spectacular hike, traversing high mountain paths with jaw-dropping views, followed by exploration of coastal grottos and dramatic fjords.
Morning
Path of the Gods hiking experience
Tackle the legendary Path of the Gods, one of the world's most scenic coastal hikes. The trail winds along dramatic cliffs 500 meters above the Mediterranean, offering unparalleled views of Capri, Positano's cascading houses, and the endless blue horizon. The 7.8-kilometer route passes through terraced vineyards, ancient shepherds' paths, and wild Mediterranean vegetation. The relatively gentle westward route from Bomerano to Nocelle provides constant visual rewards with moderate effort.
3-4 hours $0 (plus bus fare to trailhead)
Start early (by 8 AM) to avoid midday heat and catch the best light for photography
Lunch
A casual spot in Nocelle or Positano serving fresh sandwiches and local specialties
Light Mediterranean fare with lemon-infused dishes Budget
Afternoon
Fiordo di Furore and Grotta dello Smeraldo
Visit the stunning Fiordo di Furore, a dramatic gorge where a tiny fishing village clings to the cliffside beneath a soaring bridge—one of the coast's most photographed spots. Then explore the magical Grotta dello Smeraldo, an enchanting sea cave where sunlight filters through underwater openings, creating an ethereal emerald glow. A short boat ride takes you through the grotto to admire stalactites, stalagmites, and an underwater nativity scene.
2-3 hours $12
Visit the grotto between 10 AM and 3 PM when sunlight creates the best emerald effect
Evening
Coastal drive and seaside dinner
Take the scenic coastal road back to Amalfi, stopping at viewpoints along the way. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a waterfront restaurant featuring grilled fish and regional wines

Where to Stay Tonight

Amalfi town center (Return to your Amalfi accommodation)

Amalfi remains the perfect base for exploring both eastern and western coast attractions

Wear proper hiking shoes for the Path of the Gods—the trail is well-maintained but rocky in sections. Bring plenty of water and sun protection
Day 2 Budget: $140-220
3

Hidden Valleys & Lemon Groves

Amalfi and surroundings
Discover the Amalfi Coast's lush interior, hiking through nature reserves and terraced lemon groves, before a final afternoon savoring the coastal atmosphere.
Morning
Valle delle Ferriere nature hike
Explore the Valle delle Ferriere, a hidden valley nature reserve behind Amalfi that feels worlds away from the coastal crowds. This lush, microclimate-rich canyon features cascading waterfalls, rare ferns, and ruins of ancient iron mills. The trail follows a mountain stream through verdant forest, offering cool shade and the music of rushing water. The biodiversity here includes species dating back to the Ice Age, making it a botanist's paradise and a refreshing contrast to coastal scenery.
3-4 hours $0
Lunch
A hillside agriturismo or local osteria serving farm-to-table cuisine
Traditional dishes featuring locally grown produce, homemade pasta, and regional cheeses Mid-range
Afternoon
Path of the Lemons and final coastal exploration
Walk the enchanting Path of the Lemons, a historic trail connecting Maiori to Minori through terraced lemon groves. This ancient route passes beneath pergolas heavy with sfusato amalfitano lemons, the prized variety used for authentic limoncello. The shaded path offers glimpses into traditional agricultural life and stunning valley views. End your afternoon at leisure exploring Amalfi's Diocesan Museum of Amalfi or simply relaxing at a seaside café, soaking in your final hours on this magical coast.
2-3 hours $8
Evening
Farewell dinner and evening passeggiata
Join the traditional evening stroll along Amalfi's waterfront, then celebrate your final night with a special dinner at an upscale restaurant featuring tasting menus of coastal specialties paired with Campanian wines

Where to Stay Tonight

Amalfi town center (Final night at your Amalfi accommodation)

Easy access for departure while enjoying Amalfi's evening atmosphere one last time

Purchase authentic limoncello and handmade paper as souvenirs—both are traditional Amalfi crafts. Look for artisanal producers rather than tourist shops for quality products
Day 3 Budget: $160-260

Practical Information

Getting Around

The Amalfi Coast is best explored using the SITA regional bus system, which connects all major towns along the coastal road. Buses are frequent, affordable, and offer spectacular views, though they can be crowded in high season. Purchase tickets at tobacco shops or bars before boarding. For the Path of the Gods, take a bus to Bomerano from Amalfi. Taxis are available but expensive due to winding roads. Consider renting a scooter if you're experienced with Italian traffic, though driving can be stressful on narrow coastal roads. Water taxis between towns offer a scenic alternative.

Book Ahead

Book accommodation well in advance (3-6 months for high season). Most attractions don't require advance tickets, but arriving early is essential to beat crowds. If joining a guided hike for the Path of the Gods, book a week ahead. Reserve dinner at upscale restaurants 1-2 days in advance.

Packing Essentials

Comfortable hiking shoes, sun hat, high-SPF sunscreen, refillable water bottle, light layers for varying altitudes, swimsuit, camera with extra batteries, modest clothing for church visits, small daypack, and comfortable walking sandals for evenings

Total Budget

$480-760 for three days (excluding accommodation and international travel)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in Salerno or Sorrento instead of directly on the coast for cheaper accommodation, then day-trip via bus. Pack picnic lunches from local markets rather than dining at restaurants. Focus on free hiking trails and natural attractions. Take public buses exclusively and avoid boat tours. Dine at pizzerias and casual eateries rather than sit-down restaurants. Shop at alimentari (grocery stores) for breakfast supplies.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at five-star hotels in Ravello or Positano with infinity pools and Michelin-starred restaurants. Hire a private driver for the entire stay to navigate coastal roads stress-free. Book private boat tours to explore grottos and swim in secluded coves. Arrange guided food and wine tours with local experts. Enjoy sunset aperitivos at exclusive hotel terraces. Add a private cooking class or ceramic-making workshop. Consider a helicopter transfer for arrival with aerial coastal views.

Family-Friendly

Skip the longer Path of the Gods hike in favor of shorter nature walks in Valle delle Ferriere where kids can splash in streams. Spend more time at beaches between cultural stops—Atrani has a small family-friendly beach. Book accommodation with pool facilities. Visit the Grotta dello Smeraldo, which fascinates children. Allow extra time for gelato breaks and reduce daily walking distances. Consider staying in one location to avoid frequent packing and unpacking.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Amalfi Coast

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Amalfi Coast

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Amalfi Coast

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Amalfi Coast

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Amalfi Coast

Plan Your Perfect Trip

Get insider tips and travel guides delivered to your inbox

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.