The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most dazzling coastal escapes—where pastel-colored villages cling to cliffs, the Mediterranean sparkles below, and every moment feels like a scene from a romance film. This UNESCO World Heritage region, just south of Naples, is a blend of glamour, history, and authentic Southern Italian culture.
Here’s how to experience it the Elite Globetrotters way—starting in Naples and ending with a high-speed train to Rome.
Quick Overview
Region: Campania, Southern Italy
Best Time to Visit: Late April–June & September–October (warm weather, fewer crowds)
Getting Around: Ferries, private transfers, and local buses. Base in 2–3 towns and explore from there.
Arrival in Naples
Start your journey in Naples, the chaotic, colorful gateway to the coast. Explore the historic center, savor Neapolitan pizza at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, or tour the archaeological treasures at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale. Take a half-day trip to Pompeii or Herculaneum, or hike up Mount Vesuvius for sweeping bay views.
Elite Stay Picks – Naples:
• Grand Hotel Vesuvio – Seafront icon with rooftop bar and Gulf views
• Romeo Hotel – Chic, design-forward with a rooftop pool and Michelin dining
Travel Tip: Take a ferry or hydrofoil from Molo Beverello to Capri, or hire a driver for the coastal journey.
Capri: Island Glamour
Two days in Capri offers a taste of la dolce vita. From boat tours to the Blue Grotto to shopping in Via Camerelle and riding the chairlift to Monte Solaro, every moment here is cinematic.
Top Experiences:
• Blue Grotto tour
• Aperitivo at La Fontelina beach club
• Scenic chairlift to Monte Solaro
• Gardens of Augustus & Via Krupp
Elite Stay Picks – Capri:
• Caesar Augustus, Anacapri – Luxury with sweeping cliffside views
• JK Place Capri – Boutique chic with seaside elegance and infinity pool
Positano: Postcard Perfection
Take the ferry to Positano, where colorful homes cascade down to the sea. Stroll narrow lanes, sip limoncello, shop for handmade sandals, and dine with a view.
Top Experiences:
• Sunset dinner at La Sponda
• Day trip to Praiano or Fornillo Beach
• Scenic hike on the Path of the Gods
Elite Stay Picks – Positano:
• Le Sirenuse – Iconic, romantic, and luxurious
• Hotel Poseidon – Timeless charm with postcard-perfect terraces
Amalfi & Ravello: Heritage and High Views
Amalfi is historic and vibrant, home to the Duomo di Sant’Andrea and a rich maritime past. Nearby Ravello, perched high above the coast, is known for its classical music festivals and cliffside villas.
Top Experiences:
• Amalfi Cathedral tour & lemon grove visit
• Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone in Ravello
• Enjoy a concert during the Ravello Festival (summer)
Elite Stay Picks – Amalfi:
• NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento – A former monastery with dramatic views
• Santa Caterina Hotel – Classic Amalfi luxury with seaside elevators
Elite Stay Picks – Ravello:
• Belmond Hotel Caruso – Lavish with a stunning infinity pool
• Palazzo Avino – Elegant, pink-hued palace with fine dining and spa
Sorrento: Gateway to Everything
Sorrento offers ease and access with ferry service, vibrant piazzas, and cliffside hotels. It’s a perfect base to explore Capri, Pompeii, or take a boat ride along the coast.
Top Experiences:
• Sunset cocktails at Café del Mare
• Day trip to Capri or boat tour to Nerano
• Tasting tour with limoncello & local cheeses
Elite Stay Picks – Sorrento:
• Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria – Grand and elegant, perched above the harbor
• Bellevue Syrene – Historic with modern flair and stunning sea views
Salerno, Minori, Maiori & Hidden Gems
For a less touristy slice of the coast, Salerno, Minori, and Cetara are refreshingly local and full of charm.
What to Explore:
• Minori’s quiet beaches and pastry shops
• Maiori’s long seafront promenade
• Cetara’s anchovy delicacies and harbor views
• Salerno’s cathedral and nightlife
Elite Stay Picks – Salerno/Minori:
• Hotel Raito (Vietri sul Mare) – Coastal hideaway with spa
• Villa Romana Hotel – Affordable charm near Minori’s beach
Hike the Path of the Gods
If you’re up for an adventure, hike from Agerola to Positano along the Path of the Gods (Il Sentiero degli Dei). With jaw-dropping views and wild herbs perfuming the air, it’s one of Italy’s best coastal hikes.
Food & Wine Highlights
Every meal along the Amalfi Coast is a celebration. Try:
• Lemon pasta in Amalfi
• Stuffed zucchini flowers in Ravello
• Grilled seafood in Sorrento
• Torta Caprese in Capri
• Local wines: Falanghina, Greco di Tufo, and Fiano di Avellino
Elite Shopping Stops
• Positano: Handmade sandals, linen dresses, beach bags
• Capri: Perfumes at Carthusia, luxury boutiques
• Sorrento: Inlaid woodwork, ceramics, limoncello
• Ravello: Local crafts and gourmet oils
Final Stop: Rome via High-Speed Train
From Naples, board a high-speed Frecciarossa train to Rome (approx. 1 hr 10 min). It’s the perfect way to end your journey with one last cappuccino and a view of the coast.
Plan Your Amalfi Escape
Whether you’re dreaming of cliffside luxury, fresh seafood, or sun-soaked exploration, I’ll help you curate the ultimate Amalfi Coast itinerary—fully customized to your travel style.
Let’s turn your Italian dream into reality.