The Perfect 7-Day Itinerary on the Amalfi Coast

A 7-Day Itinerary on this wonderful coastline

For anyone seeking a blend of old-world charm, Mediterranean warmth, and picture-perfect scenery, this stretch of southern Italy is a must. A 7-day Amalfi Coast itinerary can help you explore its coastline, which is a dramatic blend of steep cliffs, vibrant blue seas, and pastel-hued villages that seem to tumble down into the Mediterranean.

I can’t be the only one who envisages la dolce vita when I hear the mere mention of the Amalfi Coast. My thoughts immediately race to lazy afternoons, Aperol spritzes on a terrace, sun hats, and linen. All this under the fragrant umbrella of lemon trees or on a bougainvillaea-covered terrace.

Yes, the Amalfi Coast epitomises style and refinement and is an ideal addition to the Glamorous Gallivant’s top destinations for the over-50 traveller.

Where is the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast stretches along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula in the Campania region, south of Naples. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site made up of 13 seaside towns, each one offering its own unique charm.

What You Need to Know on Your 7-day Amalfi Coast itinerary

To make your 7-day Amalfi Coast itinerary enjoyable, it is essential you visit at the right time of year. If you get this wrong, I can tell you, the Amalfi Coast turns into an unbearable holiday spot.

For a comfortable, affordable, and authentic Amalfi experience, visit in the off-season months (late April – Early June or Mid-September – October). During this time, there are fewer crowds, lower prices and milder weather. The winter months are quiet but many of the hotels and restaurants are closed.

Conversely, June to August is the peak tourist season, and the coast becomes packed with day-trippers, cruise passengers, and holidaymakers. This is the period that needs to be avoided. Personally, I not think the Amalfi Coast is worth visiting at this time. Think crowds, crowds, and more crowds. Furthermore, you’ll be met with intense heat, sky-high prices and a limiting local feel.

Getting to the Amalfi Coast

Start your 7-day Amalfi Coast itinerary in Naples, which is well-connected by train or plane. From there, hire a private driver or rent a car if you’re comfortable navigating winding cliffside roads. Alternatively, ferries run between many coastal towns during warmer months.

Getting Around the Amalfi Coast

The route around the Amalfi Coast is only about 50 kms (31 miles) long but driving it can take hours with the traffic and stops. The best strategy is to pick a couple of towns per day (depending on how long you’ve got) rather than trying to do it all.

Whether you opt for a driver or a self-drive, you’ll not be disappointed. Roads like the Strada Statale 163 (SS163) offer some of the most scenic drives in the world. Get ready for lots of WOW moments!

My tip, however, for this 7-day Amalfi Coast itinerary, would be to hire a private driver. It might cost more, but it spares you the stress of driving and lets you truly enjoy the views, especially with the region’s notoriously narrow roads. I love self-driving holidays but I was so pleased that we made the decision to hire a driver. Given the roads and traffic, it is a very popular means of travel.

There are lots of taxi companies that are available to book in advance or indeed as you travel. Your hotel will also be able to assist and call up a local company. The distances are not long between the main resorts so there will always be availability outside the peak holidays.

The company I used was Amalfi Car Service and I was really happy with their service. Other companies include Amalfi Coast Transfers and Amalfi Transfer.

What to Expect on your 7-day Amalfi Coast itinerary

The Good – Yes, the Amalfi Coast is a great destination

From the moment you wind your way along the cliff-hugging Strada Statale 163, you’ll understand the hype. The views are breathtaking: pastel buildings perched on the hillsides, olive groves and lemon trees spilling toward the sea, and tiny boats bobbing in turquoise coves below. It really is a scenic overload.

Accommodation, like most places, is varied depending upon your budget but there are some incredible options if you want to indulge. Hotels carved into the cliffs with dreamy views, historic buildings and monasteries converted into luxurious lodgings offering 5 star service and facilities. You will most definitely believe the Amalfi Coast is worth visiting as you relax on your hotel terrace, sipping your cocktail, taking in the glorious vista.

The Bad – on your 7-day Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Parking is a challenge if you are self-driving. Parking in towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello is scarce and expensive. You’ll often park outside the town and walk or shuttle in. Additionally, you’ll most probably have to opt for the valet parking at your accommodation to avoid the tight, awkward parking available.

The Ugly – on your 7-day Amalfi Coast Itinerary

Expect big coaches squeezing past in impossibly tight spaces. Local drivers are confident (some might say daring) and motorbikes and scooters constantly whizz by at alarming speeds. Do not go in July/August when the roads can be gridlocked and the quaint, cobbled streets crammed with tourists.

Quick Guide to the Main Towns & Stops on your 7-day Amalfi Coast itinerary

• Positano: Steep stairways, chic boutiques, beach clubs, and postcard views. Don’t miss: Path of the Gods hike or a lazy lunch at Arienzo Beach Club.
• Amalfi: A historic maritime town with a stunning cathedral and lively piazza. Don’t miss: The Paper Museum or a boat trip along the coast.
• Ravello: Perched high above, famous for its gardens (Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone) and music festivals. Don’t miss: Villa Cimbrone’s Terrace of Infinity or a classical concert in summer.
• Praiano, Atrani, Minori & Maiori: Quieter alternatives with a more local feel. Don’t miss: Sunset cocktails at Café Mirante in Praiano.
• Sorrento: Technically just before the Amalfi Coast, a good starting/end point with more hotels and easier access. Great base for day trips to Capri, Pompeii, and Naples. Don’t miss: A sunset aperitivo overlooking the Bay of Naples.

Things to Do on Your Amalfi Coast Trip

• Take a private boat tour – explore hidden coves and caves.
• Walk the Path of the Gods – breathtaking views, moderate fitness level required.
• Shop in Positano – linen fashion, handmade sandals, and artisan ceramics.
• Visit gardens in Ravello – peace, views, and history in one.
• Day trips – Capri, Pompeii, and Naples are within reach.
• Beach clubs – colourful umbrellas and dips in the Mediterranean
• History lovers can take a trip to explore Pompeii and Herculaneum

What to Eat & Drink

Must-Try Dishes:

• Scialatielli ai frutti di mare (fresh seafood pasta). Fresh catch of the day in cliffside trattorias is a must.
• Delizia al limone (lemon cream cake) or Lemon granita served inside a fresh Amalfi lemon,
• Insalata Caprese – born in nearby Capri
• Local anchovies and handmade gelato

Drinks:

• Limoncello (obviously!). The Amalfi Coast is lemon heaven.
• Local white wines like Falanghina and Greco di Tufo
• Aperol Spritz with a view

Where to Stay

Luxury Options (with sea views): As you can see, you really are spoilt for choice:

• Le Sirenuse – Iconic Positano charm and indulgence.
• Il San Pietro di Positano – Private beach, patio gardens, Michelin-starred dining.
• Hotel Santa Caterina – A clifftop dream in Amalfi.
• Caruso, A Belmond Hotel – 11th century palace in Ravello
• Palazzo Alvino – “Pink Palace” with medieval charm in Ravello
• Casa Angelina – Contemporary, art-infused boutique retreat in quieter Praiano
• Hotel Bellevue Syrene – Private beach club, club lounge offering complimentary drinks and snacks, in Sorrento
• Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria – Grand dame sitting majestically above the Bay of Naples, Sorrento
• Eurostar Hotel Excelsior – Luxury accommodation offering wonderful views out over the Gulf of Naples

Packing Tips

• Comfortable walking shoes (there are LOTS of steps)
• Light layers for cool evenings
• Stylish but relaxed attire—Italians dress well, but not formally
• Sun hat and sunglasses
• A small day bag for ferries and walking

Travel Tips for 50+ Travellers

• Don’t overpack your itinerary, build in time to simply sit and savour.
• Book accommodation and ferry tickets well in advance (especially in May–Sept).
• Choose hotels with lifts or ground-floor rooms if mobility is a concern.
• Consider a small group tour or private driver to simplify transfers.
• The Amalfi Coast is hilly with lots of steps in towns but it is manageable if you take it slowly.

My 7 Day Itinerary on the Amalfi Coast

Day 1: Arrive Naples Airport. Private transfer to Ravello (1hr).

Stay in one of Ravello’s beautiful hotels above. Both the Palazzo Alvino and Caruso are fantastic.

• Visit Villa Rufolo. Famous for inspiring Wagner’s opera Parsifal, this 13th-century villa has terraced gardens with jaw-dropping coastal views.
• Wander around Villa Cimbrone & the Terrace of Infinity. This is possibly one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Italy. Marble busts line a terrace that feels like the edge of the world.
• Explore Piazza del Vescovado, the main square is small but full of life, perfect for people-watching with a cappuccino or something a little stronger.
• Book a table at a terrace restaurant like Rossellinis or Belmond Caruso for a long, lazy meal with panoramic views.
• Stroll the Quiet Streets. Ravello’s traffic-free lanes are lined with artisan ceramics shops, perfect for picking up a colourful tile or plate.
• Hike Down to Atrani or Amalfi if You’re Feeling Active. A stone stairway winds down the hillside, offering glimpses into lemon groves and village life. You can always taxi back up if the climb is too much.
• Sunset Drinks at a Rooftop Bar. Belmond Caruso’s infinity pool bar is legendary, but smaller spots like Palazzo Avino’s Lobster & Martini Bar are equally beautiful.
• If you dare visit in the Summer, the Ravello Festival is a must. World-class classical concerts take place on an open-air stage overlooking the sea. Even if you’re not a huge classical music fan, the setting is magical.

Day 2: Private transfer to Amalfi (20mins)

To visit Amalfi, I stayed in Hotel Santa Caterina which is just outside Amalfi but they do run a courtesy bus to and from the town. The hotel is worth a visit on its own but if you choose to stay here to enjoy its facilities, you will not be disappointed.

While many people see Amalfi as a quick stop on a coast-hopping day trip, here are my top tips:

• Stroll the Piazza del Duomo. Amalfi’s lively central square is framed by cafés, gelaterias, and the dramatic Duomo di Sant’Andrea. The cathedral’s striped façade and grand staircase make it one of the most photographed spots on the Amalfi Coast. Step inside to see Byzantine mosaics and the peaceful Cloister of Paradise.
• Wander the Backstreets. Escape the crowds by slipping into narrow alleyways. Here you’ll find artisan shops, fragrant lemon groves peeking over walls, and hidden piazzettas.
• Try Amalfi’s Lemon Delights. The region’s giant, fragrant lemons star in everything from limoncello to lemon gelato and creamy delizia al limone cakes. Stop by Pasticceria Pansa, a historic café near the Duomo, for a sweet break.
• Take a Boat Tour. The best way to appreciate Amalfi’s cliff-hugging beauty is from the water. Short scenic cruises run along the coast, or you can charter a private boat for a luxury experience.
• Visit the Museum of Handmade Paper. Set in a 13th-century mill, this small museum offers a fascinating look at Amalfi’s paper-making tradition. A quick, enriching stop away from the bustle. Amalfi has been famous for handmade paper since the Middle Ages.
• Aperitivo by the Sea. End your day with a spritz or glass of local wine at a seafront bar while the evening light falls on the pastel buildings.

Day 3 & 4: Private transfer (35mins) or Ferry to Positano

Positano is considered the jewel of the Amalfi Coast. Perched dramatically on a cliffside, Positano is the quintessential Amalfi postcard brought to life. It’s the coastal town that exceeds your expectations and no trip to the Amalfi Coast is worth visiting without seeing Positano.

• Wander the vertical streets. Forget cars, Positano is best explored on foot. The winding lanes are lined with artisan boutiques selling handmade sandals, breezy linen dresses, and colourful ceramics. Every corner offers a perfect photo opportunity.
• Relax on Spiaggia Grande. This iconic crescent-shaped beach is the social hub of the town. Rent a lounger at a beach club, sip an Aperol Spritz, and watch the yachts drift in the distance.
• Take a Boat Trip. See Positano from the water for the ultimate perspective. Boat tours can take you along the Amalfi Coast to Fiordo di Furore, Li Galli islands, or even Capri for a day.
• Indulge in Local Flavours. Don’t leave without trying scialatielli ai frutti di mare (thick pasta with seafood) or a slice of delizia al limone, Positano’s signature lemon dessert.
• Sunset from a Terrace. Book a table at a cliffside restaurant like La Sponda or Rada for an unforgettable golden-hour view.

Day 5 to 6: Private Transfer to Sorrento or Ferry

Sorrento blends traditional Italian charm with resort-town vibrancy. It’s known for its lemon groves, cliffside views, and lively piazzas. Larger than the other towns, it has a marina offering ferries to and from Capri, Ischia, Naples and beyond.

• Stroll through the historic centre. Lose yourself in narrow lanes lined with limoncello shops, leather goods, and tiny bakeries. Don’t miss Piazza Tasso, the lively heart of town. Sorrento is flat compared to other Amalfi towns, making it easier to wander around.
• Marina Grande & Marina Piccola. The fishing village of Marina Grande is postcard-perfect, with colourful houses, seafood restaurants, and views across the bay. Marina Piccola is the ferry port — but also a lovely spot to admire the coast.
• Visit the Cloister of San Francesco. A peaceful 14th-century cloister with lush gardens and a romantic atmosphere, a popular wedding spot.
• Take a day trip to Capri and/or Ischia or even Pompeii
• Enjoy a Sunset Aperitivo. Find a terrace bar (the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria is legendary) and watch the sun sink into the sea, turning Vesuvius into a silhouette.
• Taste the Flavours of Sorrento. From gnocchi alla sorrentina to delizia al limone, the town’s citrus-inspired cuisine is a must. Pair with a chilled glass of local white wine.

Glamorous Gallivant’s Final Thoughts on the Amalfi Coast

Yes the Amalfi Coast is definitley is Worth Visiting

The Amalfi Coast is a special part of Italy and worth visiting as a standalone destination, if not part of a wider trip through Italy or Europe. With its cliffside charm, mouthwatering cuisine, and elegant pace, it’s the perfect blend of beauty, culture, and indulgence, especially for those of us who travel with both style and substance in mind.

There’s a reason it’s a dream for many and it absolutely lives up to it. With a little planning and a glamorous mindset, you can enjoy this breathtaking region with ease, elegance, and adventure, at any age.

So go on, pack that linen dress, grab your sunhat, and let Glamorous Gallivant guide you along Italy’s most glamorous coast. It’s a bucket-list journey that blends adventure, luxury, and la dolce vita.

Ready to plan your own Amalfi escape? Head to glamorousgallivant.com for more curated itineraries and travel inspiration for the stylish over-50 traveller.