The Amalfi Coast is where colorful villages tumble down cliffs to meet turquoise waters, and every turn in the road reveals another postcard view. Our local guides at Italy Amalfi Coast Tours will take you through charming towns like Positano and Ravello, down to hidden beaches, and into family-run restaurants where the limoncello flows and pasta is made fresh daily. From boat rides along dramatic coastline to sunset views that take your breath away, these Italian adventures create memories that last a lifetime.
Our most popular Amalfi Coast tours, loved by travelers seeking stunning cliffside villages, azure Mediterranean waters, and authentic Italian coastal charm.
Soak up the beauty of Italy's iconic Amalfi Coast on this full-day tour from Sorrento, traveling in an air-conditioned mini-coach along spectacular winding coastal roads while your driver handles the challenging navigation, stopping to visit three stunning villages—Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello—with leisure time in each to stroll narrow cobblestone streets, shop for unique handmade goods, and take in breathtaking Mediterranean views, all with tips and insights from your knowledgeable guide and small-group experience ensuring personalized attention throughout this unforgettable Italian Riviera adventure.
Journey along Italy's stunning UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast visiting three beautiful towns, beginning in Sorrento for a walking tour through charming streets with limoncello tasting, stopping at Madonnina viewpoint for breathtaking photos before arriving in Positano—this exclusive tour limited to 18 participants includes rare downtown access to wander staircase streets or relax by the beach with optional seaside lunch featuring panoramic views, then continuing to Amalfi to visit the stunning St. Andrew's Cathedral or indulge in local gelato by the shore, all with air-conditioned transportation, knowledgeable guide, and flexible itineraries accommodating coastal road conditions.
Beat the crowds at Capri's famous Blue Grotto on this small-group boat tour departing early morning from Sorrento to minimize wait times at the cave entrance, sailing into the stunning illuminated grotto before the masses arrive, then cruising around the island taking in coastal highlights including the iconic Faraglioni rock formations, stopping to swim in crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, relaxing on board the padded sundeck with complimentary beverages and snacks, and enjoying free time on land to visit the charming fishing village of Marina Grande and ancient Roman villa ruins.
Delve into ancient Roman history by visiting two of the world's most important archaeological sites—Pompeii and Herculaneum—with an expert archaeologist guide who brings the ruins to life for the untrained eye, learning about the fascinating history and architecture of these two cities tragically buried by Mt. Vesuvius' catastrophic eruption in AD 79, taking in the highlights and most significant discoveries of both sites in just a few hours with professional insights that illuminate daily life in these remarkably preserved ancient Roman communities.
Escape Rome on this guided day trip to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast in a comfortable luxury coach with WiFi, skipping lines with priority entry to UNESCO-listed Pompeii to explore remarkably preserved ancient streets, villas, and frescoes with an expert guide, enjoying free lunch time before a scenic drive along one of the world's most beautiful coastal roads with breathtaking sea views and dramatic cliffs, arriving in Positano to wander colorful cliffside streets, visit Santa Maria Assunta Church, shop for handmade ceramics and limoncello, or relax at a seaside café.
Travel from central Naples to the Amalfi Coast aboard a comfortable bus with audio guide, arriving in picturesque Positano with free time to stroll vertical streets filled with charming cafes, shop for fashions, photograph the domed Santa Maria Assunta church, and soak in azure seas and craggy cliffs, then traveling to Amalfi (by boat in summer weather permitting) with free time to enjoy lunch, sample limoncello made from local lemons, stroll postcard-perfect streets, and admire the majestic Sant'Andrea Cathedral, returning to Naples with unforgettable memories.
Set sail along the Amalfi Coast discovering secluded beaches, sea caves, and stunning perspectives of Positano and Capri only accessible by boat.
Sail the sparkling Amalfi Coast's turquoise waters on this full-day small-group boat tour from Positano, visiting stunning spots including Fiordo di Furore and Praiano for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, cruising past charming seaside villages, hidden beaches, and dramatic coastal cliffs, enjoying approximately two hours of free time to explore your choice of iconic Amalfi Coast town on land, all with personalized attention from your expert guide in an intimate small-group setting making this the best way to experience Italy's famous coastline from the water.
Cruise the spectacular Amalfi Coast on a traditional Gozzo boat with a small group of up to 10 passengers, setting sail from Amalfi or Positano along dramatic cliffs and ancient watchtowers, stopping to swim and snorkel with provided equipment at hidden beaches accessible only by boat including peaceful La Porta Beach, venturing into enchanting sea grottoes like Saint Andrew's Cave with stunning stalactites and the brilliant turquoise Africana Grotto featuring unique light effects, passing Italy's sole natural fjord at Furore and scenic Conca dei Marini home to Sophia Loren's former villa, while savoring fresh fruit and complimentary beverages including prosecco and Limoncello aboard this unforgettable UNESCO-listed coastal voyage.
Discover Capri and Sorrento's dazzling beauty on this intimate small-group or private boat tour offering a truly personalized Italian experience, cruising past stunning landmarks including the Natural Arch, Villa Malaparte, Cala di Mitigliano Waterfall, and the famous Blue Grotto (admission tickets additional), capturing unforgettable photos of dramatic coastal scenery, then enjoying free time to explore the charming island at your own pace, all with complimentary Sorrento hotel pickup and drop-off, onboard snacks and drinks included, and optional upgrade to fully private excursion for a VIP experience.
Maximize your Italian adventure with this hassle-free daytrip to the stunning island of Capri, starting with convenient hotel pickup before boarding a scenic boat journey across the Bay of Naples to the island, enjoying ample free time to explore Capri's charming streets, luxury boutiques, and breathtaking viewpoints at your own pace, then cruising back to the port past top landmarks including the iconic Punta Carena lighthouse and the dramatic Faraglioni rock formations rising from the turquoise sea.
Set sail from Amalfi at sunset aboard an elegant traditional gozzo boat as the sky transforms into golden, orange, and pink hues, cruising toward picturesque Positano past steep cliffs, pastel villages, and hidden sea-accessible coves, sipping chilled prosecco and enjoying snacks, stopping at charming coves to swim and snorkel with provided equipment discovering colorful fish and breathtaking seabeds, admiring spectacular views from ancient watchtowers to Positano's famous colorful houses floating between sky and sea as unique sunset light plays across the horizon, all in an intimate setting limited to 10 people during this 2-hour romantic journey with prosecco, snacks, equipment, and expert guide included.
Board a spacious boat at Darsena pier in Amalfi—no bus transfers or traffic delays—sailing west toward Capri while enjoying fresh fruit, prosecco, limoncello, beer, and soda, exploring pristine beaches, natural arches, and enchanting caves including Runghetiello Grotto with vibrant frescoes and Africana Grotto with blue waters, stopping at secluded beaches for snorkeling, cruising past Sophia Loren's villa, historic Santa Rosa Monastery, Italy's only natural fjord at Furore, and the romantic Arc of Lovers, arriving at Capri for three hours of free exploration with optional independent Blue Grotto visit (no disembarkation fees), then sailing past Emperor Tiberius' Villa Jovis, iconic Faraglioni Rocks, and White and Green Grottoes with final swim stop before returning at sunset.
Discover the region's rich past visiting Byzantine churches, aristocratic palaces, archaeological sites, and centuries-old monasteries perched along dramatic cliffsides.
Journey from Sorrento to one of Italy's most evocative archaeological sites on this half-day guided tour of UNESCO-listed Pompeii, traveling by comfortable bus to skip admission lines and follow your expert guide through the remarkably preserved ruins of an ancient Roman city tragically buried by Mt. Vesuvius' catastrophic eruption, marveling at excavated houses, marketplaces, thermal baths, and stunning frescoes preserved in volcanic ash, visiting a well-preserved Roman bakery with original ovens still intact, and gaining fascinating insights into the thriving civilization that once flourished here before the disaster, all with hassle-free round-trip transportation from Sorrento.
Meet your local guide at your Positano accommodation and travel in comfortable air-conditioned transportation to Pompeii Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy's most visited archaeological treasures, benefiting from skip-the-line entry before exploring with an expert archaeological guide for 2 hours, discovering what life was like before the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, marveling at the remarkably well-preserved slice of ancient Roman life as you pass by the Basilica, the Forum, and thermal baths, visiting residential houses to picture how people lived 2000 years ago in this thriving city frozen in time by volcanic ash.
Embark on an unforgettable full-day journey from Sorrento or Naples combining two of Italy's most iconic landmarks, beginning at UNESCO World Heritage site Pompeii where an expert authorized guide leads you through fascinating ancient ruins frozen in time, walking ancient streets and admiring remarkably well-preserved houses, baths, bakeries, and stunning frescoes while learning the city's tragic yet captivating story, pausing for a delicious lunch at a typical Vesuvian winery, then continuing to Mount Vesuvius for a hike up the slopes to the crater's edge at 1,280 meters above sea level, where a professional mountain guide shares the volcano's history and secrets while you peer inside the crater and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the Gulf of Naples.
Taste your way through coastal cuisine on food tours featuring local mozzarella production, limoncello tastings, market visits, and authentic recipes taught by Italian home cooks.
Immerse yourself in authentic Italian farm-to-table living on this half-day tour from downtown Sorrento to a real working farm in the countryside, arriving to explore picturesque olive and lemon groves, learning traditional winemaking processes and discovering the peaceful pace of farming life off the tourist trail, then enjoying a generous tasting of the farm's artisanal products including olive oil, limoncello, and wine, followed by a freshly prepared lunch featuring farm-fresh ingredients, all with convenient round-trip transportation from Sorrento making this nature escape hassle-free, perfect for foodies seeking an authentic culinary experience most visitors miss.
Unleash your inner chef on this immersive Amalfi Coast cooking workshop at a picturesque farm, learning to create iconic Italian dishes guided by expert chefs, starting with fresh tagliatelle pasta where you'll master kneading techniques and prepare savory vegetable sauce using local seasonal ingredients, then discovering how to craft classic creamy tiramisu with its delicious layers, relaxing afterward to savor your handcrafted culinary creations paired with excellent wine produced on the farm while admiring stunning Amalfi Coast views, bringing home authentic Italian flavors and enriched culinary skills from this unforgettable gastronomic experience immersed in true Amalfi hospitality and tradition.
Sail from Amalfi to enchanting Capri on this full-day boat trip for maximum 12 people, welcomed with sparkling prosecco while gliding over azure waters, swimming at Punta Campanella at the Sorrentine Peninsula's tip, snapping photos of the famous Faraglioni rocks, enjoying 2-3 hours of free time on Capri to visit beaches, shop boutiques, or explore grottos, returning while savoring cookies and limoncello with a final swim at Li Galli island's pristine marine park waters, arriving back in Amalfi in the early evening.
Master classic Amalfi Coast cuisine on this half-day small-group cooking workshop in a traditional farmhouse featuring a complete farm-to-table experience, beginning by selecting fresh ingredients from terraced gardens, receiving hands-on instruction to prepare authentic bruschetta, homemade pasta, and signature lemon tiramisu dessert, then sitting down to savor your creations paired with local wine and limoncello, taking home provided recipes to recreate these traditional dishes back home, all in an intimate personalized setting capped at 10 people with cooking diploma and multi-course lunch included.
Discover authentic Sorrento Peninsula flavors on this unique tour at Le Colline di Sorrento, a historic family-run farmhouse with panoramic Bay of Naples views, beginning with a guided walk through fragrant lemon and olive groves learning about local farming traditions and cultivation methods, watching artisanal mozzarella production in a live demonstration before tasting it fresh and warm, enjoying a delicious tasting of typical local products including cured meats, cheeses, bruschetta, extra virgin olive oil, handcrafted limoncello and local liqueurs, and citrus marmalades—all made with care and tradition—then visiting the farm shop to sample and purchase these authentic products, suitable for all ages and accessible to guests with reduced mobility.
Set among Sorrento's green hills overlooking the infinite blue shades of the Gulf of Naples, Primaluce offers a genuine culinary and gourmet food tour celebrating true, uncontaminated seasonal flavors, beginning with a welcome drink and relaxation time on the lawn, participating in a hands-on pizza school learning traditional techniques before tasting your creation, then enjoying lunch in the farmhouse featuring your own pizza baked in a traditional wood oven, appetizer of cold cuts and fresh mozzarella, farm-fresh vegetables, with water, wine, limoncello, and homemade traditional dessert all included.
Ride like a local on guided scooter tours navigating the famous Amalfi Drive, stopping at scenic viewpoints, hidden beaches, and charming hillside towns.
Move freely along the stunning Amalfi Coast on an automatic Vespa exploring magnificent places at your own pace, stopping to take selfies at curves with breathtaking coastal views, learning about local traditions while avoiding city traffic safely, pausing at the best viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean, and enjoying free time for lunch at a recommended restaurant with spectacular views, all with parking, third-party insurance, safety instructions, taxes, and VAT included for a liberating Italian Riviera adventure.
Travel the majestic Amalfi Coast in a unique way aboard an original Ape Tuk-Tuk guided by an expert driver, riding through small picturesque villages and world-famous coastal scenery from Sorrento/Positano to Amalfi, passing through Conca de' Marini and overlooking the stunning Furore fjord, stopping at amazing terraces with breathtaking sea views extending as far as the eye can see, exploring enchanting villages with their vibrant colors in a typically Italian atmosphere, learning about the area's never-ending history, legends of Mermaids, and folklore through a handy multilingual audio guide downloadable to your smartphone 24 hours before the tour and accessible offline on 2 devices during the journey, traveling in complete safety and comfort on this folkloristic vehicle creating an indelible memory.
Feel like an 80s movie star on this glamorous selfie tour of the Amalfi Coast aboard an original vintage Italian Fiat 500 with a local driver, traveling back in time to the Dolce Vita lifestyle in this iconic car, visiting a variety of panoramic viewpoints around Positano and Praiano for stunning photo opportunities with the breathtaking Amalfi Coast in the background, stopping at each scenic spot to capture super glamorous pictures inside the legendary Italian car, including a colorful fruit stand where vibrant produce colors play off against the vintage Fiat's blues and the ocean below, all with convenient pickup and drop-off at your accommodation or preferred location en route.
Enjoy sophisticated coastal exploration with private boats, gourmet dining experiences, personal drivers, and privileged access to exclusive venues and secluded locations at Amalfi Coast in Italy.
Sail the stunning Amalfi Coast and Capri aboard a brand new 2025 luxury Prestige M48 powercat offering exceptional stability for up to 12 guests on a customized full-day (8 hours) charter, boarding at Marina d'Arechi in Salerno or another agreed Amalfi Coast or Capri port, cruising along the coast discovering hidden bays and beaches inaccessible by land, stopping for swimming, relaxing, and exploring pristine coves, touring Capri's most iconic spots, snorkeling or diving in crystal-clear waters, enjoying optional lunch on board with typical local products, all with experienced crew who know the area, customized itinerary following your desires, fuel, snorkeling gear, beach towels, soft drinks, and snacks included.
Cruise the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Amalfi Coast on a luxurious 50-foot yacht blending local knowledge with refined elegance, gliding past renowned villages including Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello while enjoying Italian aperitivos and snorkeling in pristine turquoise waters, guided by an experienced local crew sharing captivating stories and unveiling hidden treasures, visiting secret coves far from crowded tourist spots, personalizing your journey for celebrations or activities, all creating timeless memories while indulging in pure coastal luxury and relaxation.
Embark on an enchanting boat tour from Sorrento to Amalfi across the azure Tyrrhenian Sea, gliding through crystalline waters toward iconic Positano—a cascade of pastel houses clinging to steep cliffs with vibrant bougainvillea viewed from your unrivaled maritime perspective, continuing to charming Praiano nestled between rocky outcrops revealing quieter coastal life, discovering hidden gem Furore tucked into a deep fjord with colorful houses clinging to cliffs, gracefully weaving around mythical Li Galli islands steeped in siren mythology, and arriving in Amalfi to explore labyrinthine streets filled with artisan shops beneath the imposing Sant'Andrea Cathedral before reflecting on breathtaking vistas and serene coastal beauty as the sun sets over the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The Amalfi Coast stretches along southern Italy's Sorrentine Peninsula, where colorful villages cling to dramatic cliffs that plunge into the turquoise Mediterranean Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has captivated travelers for centuries with its stunning natural beauty and timeless charm. Winding coastal roads connect picturesque towns like Positano, with its pastel buildings cascading down the hillside, Amalfi with its historic cathedral and maritime heritage, and Ravello perched high above with gardens offering panoramic views. Lemons grow on terraced groves that have been cultivated for generations, producing the famous limoncello that's served in every cafe. The scent of bougainvillea fills the air, fishing boats bob in small harbors, and family-run restaurants serve fresh seafood with views that make every meal memorable. Whether you're exploring hidden beaches, hiking the Path of the Gods, or simply watching the sunset paint the cliffs in golden light, the Amalfi Coast offers the kind of beauty that defines Italian coastal living.
Explore picturesque cliffside towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, each offering unique charm and breathtaking Mediterranean views.
Travel the legendary winding roads that hug dramatic cliffs, revealing spectacular vistas around every turn.
Cruise the turquoise waters to discover hidden grottos, secluded beaches, and coastal towns from the sea.
Savor fresh seafood, local limoncello, and traditional cuisine while immersing yourself in the region's rich culture and hospitality.
Our expert team has been helping travelers discover and book Amalfi Coast tours for over a decade, ensuring your Italian coastal getaway is seamless with everything arranged before you arrive.
With deep knowledge of the Amalfi Coast and its treasures, partnerships with trusted local guides and operators, and a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, we're committed to making your Italian journey truly extraordinary. From your first inquiry to your last coastal vista, we're here to support you every step of the way.
Italy Amalfi Coast Tours is honored by travelers and Italian heritage organizations
Travelers' Choice Award
2024
Guest Satisfaction Excellence
2023
Best Tour Operator Italy
Outstanding Coastal Service
Mediterranean Heritage Tourism Award
3-4 days is ideal for experiencing the Amalfi Coast's highlights without feeling rushed. This allows time to explore multiple towns (Positano, Amalfi, Ravello), hike the famous Path of the Gods, take a boat tour along the coast, enjoy beach time, and possibly day trip to Capri or Pompeii. Minimum 2-3 days works if you're short on time—enough for visiting main towns and one major activity. If you have 5+ days, you can enjoy a more relaxed pace, add cooking classes, wine tastings in Tramonti, explore hidden beaches, and truly soak in the coastal lifestyle. Remember: the Amalfi Coast is about relaxation and taking in stunning views, not rushing between attractions. Many travelers wish they'd stayed longer to fully appreciate the laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere and breathtaking scenery.
Each base offers distinct advantages. Sorrento is the most practical choice—excellent transportation connections (trains to Naples/Pompeii, ferries to coastal towns and Capri), more affordable accommodations ($60-150/night vs. $200+ in Positano), less touristy feel, and stunning sunset views facing west. It's ideal for day-tripping to multiple destinations but lacks the iconic clifftop charm. Positano is the most picturesque and romantic—postcard-perfect pastel houses cascading down cliffs, luxury atmosphere, and walking distance to beautiful (though pebbly) beaches. However, it's expensive, extremely touristy, crowded, and requires navigating steep stairs. Amalfi Town offers middle-ground charm with good access to buses/ferries, reasonable prices, walkability to nearby Atrani, and central location. Ravello provides tranquil mountain-top views away from crowds with stunning villas and gardens but requires buses to reach beaches. Praiano is a quieter alternative between Positano and Amalfi with authentic local atmosphere and spectacular views but fewer amenities.
The Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) is the Amalfi Coast's most spectacular hiking trail, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, Mediterranean Sea, and dramatic cliffs. The most popular route runs from Bomerano to Nocelle (above Positano), covering approximately 7-8km and taking 2.5-4 hours depending on pace and photo stops. The trail features relatively easy terrain with some elevation changes, stunning viewpoints at every turn, and ends with iconic views of Positano's colorful houses tumbling down to the sea. Important tips: Start early (7-8 AM) to avoid crowds and heat; hike downhill from Bomerano to Positano rather than the grueling uphill climb; stop at the convent halfway for fresh-squeezed orange juice with sea views; wear sturdy closed-toe shoes; and be prepared for 1,700+ steep stone steps descending into Positano at the end (or take a bus from Nocelle). The trail can be muddy after rain with some rocky sections but is manageable for moderately fit hikers.
Generally, no—avoid renting cars on the Amalfi Coast unless you're an extremely confident driver comfortable with challenging conditions. The coastal roads are notoriously narrow, winding, and feature hairpin turns along sheer cliffs with minimal guardrails. Traffic is often gridlocked, especially during peak season (June-September), with massive tour buses navigating tight corners that can bring everything to a standstill for extended periods. Parking is scarce, expensive ($30-50/day in Positano), and many hotels charge extra or lack spaces entirely. Better alternatives include: SITA buses connecting all coastal towns (~$2.80 per ride, though often packed and delayed); ferries offering stunning water views while avoiding traffic (running April-October); private or shared boat tours for flexible coastal exploration; or hiring private drivers for specific day trips. If you insist on driving, rent scooters/Vespas for more maneuverability—but even these require experience navigating intense traffic and steep terrain.
Each coastal town offers unique charm worth experiencing. Positano is the iconic postcard image—stunning pastel houses cascading down cliffs, luxury boutiques, beach clubs, and endless Instagram opportunities, though extremely touristy and expensive. Amalfi Town features the impressive Duomo di Amalfi, paper museum, lemon products, central location, and authentic Italian atmosphere mixing tourists with locals. Ravello sits high in mountains offering breathtaking views, stunning Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo with spectacular gardens (~$10-17 entry), peaceful atmosphere away from beach crowds, and world-class restaurants—absolutely don't miss it. Atrani is a tiny authentic fishing village (5-minute walk from Amalfi) with charming piazza, local restaurants, and few tourists—perfect for evening strolls. Praiano offers quieter alternative with spectacular Positano views, beach clubs like La Gavitella, and authentic local feel. Vietri sul Mare showcases vibrant hand-painted ceramics everywhere—colorful, less touristy, and surprisingly beautiful. Minori and Maiori provide wider sandy beaches and authentic local experiences away from tourist hordes.
May, June, September, and early October offer optimal conditions—warm weather (20-28°C/68-82°F), fewer crowds than peak summer, lower accommodation prices, and ferries still operating. July-August brings peak season with highest prices, overwhelming crowds, sweltering heat, gridlocked traffic, and packed beaches—avoid if possible unless you thrive in bustling atmospheres. April and late October work well for budget travelers and those prioritizing tranquility over beach weather; expect pleasant temperatures, occasional rain, limited ferry service, and significantly fewer tourists—some restaurants/hotels may be closed. November-March is off-season with many establishments closed, limited transportation, cooler weather (10-18°C/50-64°F), but rock-bottom prices and almost no tourists—best for peaceful exploration without swimming. Easter brings crowds and higher prices but festive atmosphere. Ferry season typically runs April-October, though schedules vary—always check current timetables before planning day trips by water.
The coast's location enables fantastic day trips. Capri (30-45 minute ferry from Positano/Amalfi/Sorrento) offers the famous Blue Grotto, luxury shopping, stunning views from Monte Solaro, and glamorous island atmosphere—absolutely worth a full day. Pompeii (accessible via train from Sorrento or bus from various towns) lets you explore remarkably preserved ancient Roman city buried by Mount Vesuvius—allow 3-4 hours minimum, consider hiring a guide for historical context. Herculaneum is smaller, less crowded, better preserved than Pompeii—excellent alternative or complement. Naples (1 hour from Sorrento by train) provides authentic Italian city life, incredible pizza, archaeological museum, and historic center—though many find it grittier and less charming than other Italian cities. Ischia (ferry from Naples/Sorrento) features thermal springs, beaches, and relaxed island atmosphere—quieter alternative to Capri. Paestum (south of Salerno) showcases spectacular Greek temples and archaeological sites. Mount Vesuvius allows hiking to the crater rim for panoramic Bay of Naples views.
Several stunning trails showcase the coast's natural beauty. Path of the Lemons (Sentiero dei Limoni) connects Maiori to Minori through fragrant lemon groves and offers easier terrain than Path of the Gods—perfect for families, with cafes at both ends. Valle delle Ferriere near Amalfi features lush nature reserve with waterfalls, streams, ferns, and cooler microclimate—refreshing escape from coastal heat. Path to Santa Maria del Castello leads to rustic Italian village frozen in time with authentic atmosphere and lunch at traditional Zi Peppe restaurant. Ravello to Atrani (Valley of the Dragon) descends through terraced gardens and offers excellent views—allow time for the steep climb back up. Sant'Agata Due Golfi to Marina di Crapolla reaches hidden fjord with small swimming beach and ancient chapel—challenging hike back up but spectacular and uncrowded. Nocelle to Positano stairs (1,700+ steps) can be done independently for famous Positano views without the full Path of the Gods hike. Remember: Most hikes are significantly easier going downhill—plan transportation accordingly with buses or taxis for returns.
Yes, advance booking is recommended for: Peak season (June-September) when everything fills up weeks ahead; specific experiences like cooking classes, private boat tours, wine tastings, and villa entries that have limited capacity; ferry tickets during high season to secure preferred departure times and avoid sold-out situations; and upscale restaurant reservations at places like Casa Mele or other destination restaurants. Book upon arrival or last-minute for: SITA bus tickets (purchased at tabacchi shops day-of); shared boat tours which usually have availability even during busy periods; Path of the Gods hiking (no reservations needed, just show up early); beach club sunbeds (negotiate prices upon arrival); and general restaurant meals at casual spots (most accommodate walk-ins). Pro tip: Book accommodations 2-3 months ahead for best selection and prices, especially if visiting May-October. Private boat tours and cooking classes should be booked 2-4 weeks ahead. Everything else can be decided spontaneously based on weather and mood—embrace flexibility!
Essential items include comfortable walking shoes with good grip for steep cobblestone streets, stairs, and hiking (the entire coast is vertical—you'll climb hundreds of steps daily); sun protection: high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hat (Mediterranean sun is intense); light layers: breathable clothing for hot days, light sweater for cool evenings and air-conditioned ferries; modest clothing for visiting churches (cover shoulders and knees); swimsuit and beach towel for beaches and boat tours; small day backpack for carrying water, snacks, and essentials during hikes and town exploration; motion sickness medication if prone (essential for winding bus rides); cash in euros (many small shops, tabacchi stores, and some restaurants don't accept cards); reusable water bottle (refill at public fountains); camera/phone with full battery for endless photo opportunities; and comfortable casual attire (the coast is relaxed Mediterranean style—no need for formal wear except at upscale restaurants).