The Amalfi Coast is a steep, dramatic stretch of coastline south of Naples, where pastel villages cling to cliffs, lemon terraces tumble toward the sea, and every bend in the road opens up a new panorama of bays and headlands. It’s compact enough for a 3–5 day itinerary, but each stop has its own distinct character.
3-day Amalfi Coast Itinerary
This 3-day itinerary focuses on the core highlights of the Amalfi Coast, balancing iconic villages, breathtaking hikes, and the essential boat trip to Capri, with approximate costs for a middle-class trip for two. UNESCO – Costiera Amalfitana (World Heritage).
- Day 1 – The Icons: Positano & Amalfi Positano (Vertical Village), Amalfi (Historic Maritime Republic).Explore the colorful, cascading streets of Positano. Take a bus or ferry to Amalfi to see the Duomo di Sant’Andrea and enjoy the main piazza.
- Day 2 – Coastal Walk & Elevated Gardens Ravello (Garden Views), Agerola/Nocelle (Hike Endpoints)Hike the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) in the morning. Spend the afternoon in Ravello, visiting Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone for stunning panoramic views.
- Day 3 – Island Escape Capri (Island) Take a Full-Day Boat Trip to Capri. Explore Capri Town and Anacapri, and enjoy a cruise around the Faraglioni rock formations.
Positano
Positano is the classic postcard view of the Amalfitana Coast: a vertical village cascading down the cliff toward the beach. Narrow lanes and stairways weave between bougainvillea-draped houses, small churches, and chic boutiques selling linen, sandals, and ceramics.
Down at Spiaggia Grande, cafes and beach clubs line the shore, and boats depart for coastal cruises and Capri. Despite being busy in high season, Positano retains a romantic, almost theatrical feel—especially at sunset, when the lights of the village glow above the water. Check local guide to Positano and the Amalfi Coast!
Amalfi
Once a powerful maritime republic, Amalfi combines seaside charm with layers of history. The town gathers around its lively main square and the striking Duomo di Sant’Andrea, with its striped façade and long staircase.
Behind the seafront promenade, you’ll find narrow alleys, old paper mills in the Valle dei Mulini, and viewpoints that open onto the harbor. It’s a practical base, too, with frequent ferries, buses, and excursions along the coast. Discover complete guide to towns on the Amalfi Coast,
Ravello
Perched high above Amalfi, Ravello feels quieter and more refined—almost like a garden town in the sky. It’s famous for its villas and landscaped terraces, particularly Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, whose “Terrace of Infinity” looks out over sheer cliffs and the open sea.
Ravello also has a strong cultural side: music festivals and open-air concerts take place in the summer, drawing visitors who want views and atmosphere without the crowds of the seaside towns. Don't miss to check – seasonal ferry schedules for Amalfi Coast and Capri.
Agerola & Nocelle
If you prefer fresh air and hiking to beach clubs, Agerola and Nocelle are perfect bases above the coast:
- Agerola sits on a high plateau above Amalfi, surrounded by forests, grazing fields, and mountain peaks. It’s a gateway to the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods), one of the most famous hiking trails in Italy, and is known for local cheeses (especially fior di latte) and more authentic, everyday village life.
- Nocelle is a tiny hamlet above Positano, reached by a steep road or long flights of steps. It’s peaceful, with astonishing views over the coastline and easy access to the Path of the Gods. Staying here gives you Positano’s scenery without its noise and traffic.
Capri Island
Just offshore, Capri adds an island escape to an Amalfi Coast itinerary. Dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and the iconic Faraglioni rock stacks define its coastline.
Visitors come for boat trips to the Blue Grotto, walks along panoramic paths like the Pizzolungo, and time in the elegant piazzette, boutiques, and cafes of Capri Town. Up in Anacapri, things feel more relaxed, with whitewashed lanes, gardens, and the chairlift to Monte Solaro for sweeping views across the Bay of Naples.
3-day Amalfi Coast – things to do
Coastal Walking Tour: The Path of the Gods
The “Sentiero degli Dei” (Path of the Gods) is the most famous coastal walk. It runs between the towns of Agerola (specifically the hamlet of Bomerano) and Nocelle (a hamlet above Positano).
- Details: The moderate hike takes approximately 3-4 hours (one way) and offers unparalleled views of the coastline, Positano, and the island of Capri.
- Option: Guided Tour: A local guide enhances the experience with historical context and logistics. Group tours generally cost around $70–$87 per person (or €69–€80).
- Cost for a Couple (Guided Group Tour): Approx. $140 – $175
Boat Trip to Capri
A boat trip is the best way to see the island and the stunning sea caves. GetYourGuide and similar platforms offer a wide variety of tours.
- Departure Points: You can find tours departing from Positano, Amalfi, or Sorrento. Tours from Sorrento are often the most frequent.
- Typical Full-Day Group Tour Inclusions: Cruise around the island, stop at sea grottoes (Green, White), view the Faraglioni rocks, and 3-4 hours of free time on the island. Drinks and snacks are often included.
- Approximate Cost (Full-Day Group Tour): Prices typically range from $100 to $140 per person (€95–€130) depending on the inclusions and season.
- Capri Island Boat Tour with Snorkeling & Drinks Amalfi$109 – $148. Full day, often includes free time on the island.
- Capri: Island Boat Tour and Optional Blue Grotto VisitCapri (can be reached by ferry) $34+Shorter, basic tours can be very cheap, but often don’t include transport from the mainland.
- Full-Day Boat Tour to Capri from Sorrento $114 – $127. Often includes hotel pickup and limoncello tasting.
Approximate Cost Breakdown
This estimate is for a 3-night, 3-day trip for a couple traveling in a middle-class style, focusing on a well-rated, comfortable hotel and popular activities.
- Accommodation (3 Nights)$600 – $750 Based on a middle-class hotel (e.g., a high-rated 3-star or standard 4-star) averaging $200–$250 per night. Prices in high season (May-Sept) can be higher.
- Capri Boat Trip (Group Tour) $200 – $280 Based on a full-day group boat tour for two people (~$100-$140 per person).
- Path of the Gods (Guided Group Tour) $140 – $175Based on a guided group tour for two people ($70-$87 per person). If you hike independently, the cost is just local bus tickets.
- Local Transport (Buses, Ferries) $80 – $120For moving between villages (e.g., SITA buses, local ferries). Ferries are more expensive but scenic and often faster than buses.
- Total Estimated Base Costs (Excluding Food) € 878 – € 1.140. This is the cost for your lodging and booked excursions.
Note on Food Costs: You should budget an additional $150 – $250 per day for food, depending on your dining style. This would bring the total budget (including food) to roughly $1,470 – $2,075 for the entire 3-day trip for two.
In just three days, the Amalfi Coast offers a dazzling blend of culture, history, and natural splendor. From the vertical drama of Positano and the ancient charm of Amalfi, to the breathtaking heights of the Path of the Gods and the irresistible glamour of Capri, this itinerary ensures you capture the essential spirit of the region.
By balancing coastal walking tours with relaxing boat trips, and iconic villages with elevated viewpoints, you're set for a romantic and unforgettable Italian escape. Start planning your logistics—the winding coastal roads and turquoise waters are waiting!