Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow and a former resident of Italy. I’m thrilled to share my personalized 12-day itinerary for the stunning Amalfi Coast in the spring. This itinerary is designed to help you experience the authentic charm of this region, avoiding tourist traps and embracing the local culture. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Amalfi
Start your journey by exploring the picturesque town of Amalfi. Visit the Duomo di Amalfi, a stunning Romanesque cathedral, and the Cloister of Paradise, a serene oasis with intricate Arab-Norman architecture. In the afternoon, relax on one of Amalfi’s beautiful beaches and soak in the Mediterranean sun. For dinner, I recommend La Caravella, a local favorite serving delicious seafood dishes.
Day 2: Positano and the Path of the Gods
Take a day trip to the charming town of Positano, known for its colorful houses cascading down the cliffs. Hike the famous Path of the Gods, a scenic trail offering breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Positano’s narrow streets and visit the Spiaggia Grande (main beach). For dinner, I suggest La Cambusa, a cozy restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.
Day 3: Ravello’s Villas and Gardens
Explore the enchanting town of Ravello, perched high above the Amalfi Coast. Visit the Villa Cimbrone and its stunning gardens, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Don’t miss the Villa Rufolo, a 13th-century villa with beautiful gardens and a rich history. For lunch, try Cumpa’ Cosimo, a family-run restaurant serving traditional Amalfi cuisine.
Day 4: Boat Tour of the Amalfi Coast
Embark on a boat tour along the Amalfi Coast, admiring the stunning cliffs and picturesque towns from the water. Stop at the Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Grotto), a stunning sea cave with emerald-green waters. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Amalfi and savor a delicious dinner at Taverna Buonvini, a cozy trattoria serving local specialties.
Day 5: Capri Island Adventure
Take a day trip to the enchanting island of Capri. Explore the charming town of Anacapri, visit the Villa San Michele, and marvel at the stunning Blue Grotto, a natural sea cave with brilliant blue waters. For dinner, I recommend Aurora, a renowned restaurant with a terrace offering breathtaking views of the island.
Day 6: Relaxation and Paper Museums
Spend a leisurely day relaxing on Amalfi’s beaches or exploring the town’s charming streets. Visit the Amalfi Paper Museums to learn about the region’s rich history of handmade paper production. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at Trattoria Da Gemma, a cozy trattoria serving traditional Amalfi cuisine.
Day 7: Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius
Take a day trip to the ancient city of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site frozen in time after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Explore the remarkably preserved ruins and learn about the daily life of the ancient Romans. Afterward, hike to the summit of Mount Vesuvius for stunning views of the Bay of Naples.
Day 8: Cooking Class in Amalfi
Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of the Amalfi Coast by taking a cooking class. Learn how to prepare authentic local dishes from a skilled chef and enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch or dinner. In the evening, stroll through Amalfi’s charming streets and enjoy a gelato from one of the local shops.
Day 9: Valley of the Mills and Amalfi Cathedral
Explore the Valley of the Mills, a picturesque area with ancient paper mills and scenic hiking trails. Visit the Amalfi Cathedral, a stunning 9th-century cathedral with a unique blend of architectural styles. For dinner, I suggest Ristorante Max in Positano, offering delicious seafood dishes with a breathtaking view of the coast.
Day 10: Sorrento and Marina Grande
Take a day trip to the charming town of Sorrento, known for its picturesque streets and lemon groves. Explore the lively Piazza Tasso and visit the Marina Grande, a scenic fishing village with colorful boats and excellent seafood restaurants. For dinner, try La Tagliata, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Sorrentine cuisine.
Day 11: Atrani and Minori
Explore the quaint towns of Atrani and Minori, often overlooked by tourists but brimming with authentic charm. Stroll through the narrow streets, visit local churches, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a family-run trattoria. In the evening, savor a delicious dinner at Villa Maria in Ravello, offering stunning views of the coast.
Day 12: Departure
Bid farewell to the enchanting Amalfi Coast, taking with you memories of stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Consider extending your stay or planning a return visit to explore more of this captivating region.
General Travel Tips for Amalfi Coast, Italy
- Use ferries or buses to navigate the winding coastal roads, or consider hiring a private driver for convenience.
- Book popular restaurants and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack comfortable walking shoes, as many towns have steep streets and stairs.
- Be prepared for occasional rain showers in the spring, and pack layers for varying temperatures.
- Embrace the slower pace of life and savor the authentic experiences the Amalfi Coast has to offer.
The Amalfi Coast is a true gem, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. By following this itinerary, you’ll experience the authentic charm of this region, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Buon viaggio!