Best 5 ITINERARY options for 3 DAYS in Amalfi Coast [with map and places to see]
The Amalfi Coast may look smaller, however, there are so many things to do and places to explore
In fact, planning the activities for 3 days in Amalfi Coast can be quite challenging.
That is why I always suggest organising your itinerary in advance, to avoid wasting time once on site.
In this guide, you will find five itineraries with maps and tips to enjoy the three days in Amalfi Coast, whether you are a beach lover, on a family trip or a romantic getaway, after historic sites or just with a bit of everything.
Now, without further ado let’s get into it
Table of Contents
Three days in Amalfi Coast – in a nutshell
The Amalfi Coast itself is actually a relatively small area, just 50km long, from Piano di Sorrento to Vietri sul Mare
You will discover in this area the picturesque Positano, the historical Amalfi and the lovely Ravello, up in the hills.
There are, however, other sites not on the Amalfi Coast that should be on your list.
I am thinking here of Sorrento, Capri, Pompeii or a walk to the Crater on Mount Vesuvius. Not to mention Naples itself, however, I suggest a dedicated trip for it.
With 3 days in Amalfi Coast, my recommendation is to stay in either Sorrento or Positano and explore the area from there.
Sorrento is more practical. Positano is more charming and dreamy.
- 3 days in Amalfi Coast for beaches: the entire coast has some amazing beaches, mostly boutique size and all with outstanding views. In 3 days, you can visit the most spectacular ones and you can think also to join an organised tour to visit a few beaches reachable only by boat and sea cave. Read more below on a detailed 3 days beach itinerary in Amalfi Coast
- Three days in Amalfi Coast for couples: This is one of the most romantic places to stay in Italy. Positano is the best place to stay. From there you can organise daily adventures. Read more below on a full day-by-day itinerary
- For families: I suggest staying either in Sorrento (with young kids and/or pram) or in Positano (with older children). From both locations you can easily organise daily excursions. Read more below on a family itinerary
- For history: Sorrento is the best base to stay, well connected to most of the historical sites. I have organised a detailed 3 days plan for history that you should check below
- For a bit of everything: There is a wide range of activities available on this 3-day tour, including trekking, history, and beaches. Read below for more details
With only 3 days, I would personally not suggest renting a car, unless you are already driving through Italy.
A car adds a ton of flexibility, of course, but parking is never going to be easy, besides being expensive.
Buses and ferries are both a good way to go around, once you get a grip on it.
For this reason, I wrote a guide about the best and worst of getting around the Amalfi Coast with or without a car, with links to the transportation websites for timetables and tickets
Some organised tours are also suggested in a few itineraries.
A majority of them (if not all) offer a free cancellation policy. If your plans change, you can cancel your reservation later.
For popular experiences like hiking the Vesuvius, I recommend booking well in advance
Three days in Amalfi Coast for beaches
With only 3 days on the Amalfi Coast, I highly recommend booking your accommodation in Positano.
If you fly to Naples, I also suggest booking this great value Shared Transfer to Positano. There is also a Private Van Transfer that may work better if you are in 4 or more of you.
It will save you a ton of time. The alternative from the airport is to get a bus to Naples, a train to Sorrento, and bus to Positano. You get the point.
Here is a quick summary of the itinerary, a much more detailed description follows
Day | Hotel | Activities | Lunch/dinner |
---|---|---|---|
Day 1 | Nunziata (Positano) | 1. Main Beach of Positano 2. Wander around town and walk to Fornillo Beach | Lunch: Posides Cafe |
Day 2 | Nunziata (Positano) | 1. Visit Furore Fjord 2. Stop at Arienzo Beach on the way back | Lunch: Local restaurant at Furore Fjord |
Day 3 | Nunziata (Positano) | 1. Ferry to Amalfi. Explore the town and nearby beaches (Atrani and Castiglione) | Lunch: Dejavu Cafe Dinner: Li Galli or Mirage Restaurant |
Day 3 (Alternative) | Nunziata (Positano) | 1. Beach & Snorkelling boat tour 2. Capri and Sorrento Coastal Tour with Blue Grotto visit |
In this itinerary, you will also find some sightseeing in the city.
- Day 1: Enjoy the Main Beach of Positano. There is a free public area as well as a private side where you can rent sun umbrellas and sunbeds. The view of the Positano town perched on the hill is really outstanding, in fact, this is in my opinion the most picturesque beach on the coast. For lunch, go to the Posides Cafe (the Caprese Salad is the highlight). In the afternoon, have a wander around town and walk to the Fornillo Beach, the quieter beach of Positano, accessible through a short coastal walk (steep at a few points)
- Day 2: Catch a bus to the Furore Fjord, the most impressive beach on the Amalfi Coast. Parking there is almost impossible. You can at the local restaurant (if available), however, you will have to eat there and parking is on top of the bill of course. You can spend the entire day there or make your way back in the afternoon stopping at another beach, Arienzo Beach, just 700m before Positano.
- Day 3: Take the ferry to Amalfi and spend some time exploring the town. Dejavu Cafe is a great place for a quick lunch. The Amalfi beach is somehow disappointing. Go instead to Atrani Beach, just 700m away, or even better to Castiglione Beach, one of my favourites. You can even think to have lunch there at the Lido di Ravello. Organise your way back to Positano with the ferry from Amalfi. Last dinner in Positano with a view at Li Galli, for a pretentious night, or the Mirage Restaurant.
- Day 3 (Alternative): why not join this small group Beach & Snorkelling boat tour that will take you to lovely beaches and amazing grottos along the coast? Or this Capri and Sorrento Coastal Tour with a visit to the Blue Grotto?
For more beaches, check out this exhaustive list where I mention also the costs for sunbeds and umbrellas.
Great Accommodations in Positano with the before mentioned experiences:
- Airbnb for families: La Nunziata (1BR amazing value for money), Caravella Positano Apartments (with private beach)
- Hotels for couples: Alcione Residence (value for money), Torre Trasita (in a tower, one of the most unique accommodations in Positano), Hotel Poseidon (mid-range, with pool and view), Moro Di Positano (budget with parking, but rarely available)
- Experiences: Small group Beach & Snorkelling Tour by boat, Capri and Sorrento Coastal Tour
You should also check out my guide to the best areas to stay in Positano for a better idea of the destination (the map is so helpful!)
Three romantic days in Amalfi Coast for couples
There is something so romantic about the Amalfi Coast.
Positano is, in my opinion, the most charming and picturesque town of all. And there are so many amazing places to stay in Positano.
Book your stay there and explore the Amalfi coast from there, including a fascinating walk between waterfalls
Day | Hotel | Activities | Lunch/dinner |
---|---|---|---|
Day 1 | Alcione (Positano) | Explore Positano and go shopping 2. Visit Fornillo Beach or Arienzo Beach | Lunch: Posides Cafe |
Day 2 | Alcione (Positano) | 1. Ferry to Amalfi 2. Ferriere Valley walk 3. Visit Duoglio Beach | Lunch: Dejavu Cafe Dinner: Li Galli or Mirage Restaurant |
Day 3 | Alcione (Positano) | 1. Ferry to Sorrento to explore the town 2. Visit Bagni Salvatore | Lunch: Bagni Salvatore |
Day 3 (Alternative) | Alcione (Positano) | Join the Vespa Tour on the Amalfi Coast |
As for the previous itinerary, I highly suggest booking a direct Shared Transfer from Naples Airport to Positano to avoid wasting time on multiple means of transportation.
- Day 1: Start the day getting lost in Positano and making some shopping. Lunch at the family-run Posides Cafe (lovely Caprese Salad). In the afternoon, walk down to the main beach to have a look at the amazing view, then take the coastal trail to the much quieter Fornillo Beach. Alternatively, have a walk to the boutique Arienzo Beach, just 700m from Positano.
- Day 2: Grab the ferry to Amalfi. Wander around town and go for the Ferriere Valley walk, between gorges and waterfalls (DIY with the free MAPS.ME app). In the afternoon, grab the local boat (2-3euro) to Duoglio Beach, under an impressive cliff. The beach has a tiny public area and a private section where you can rent your sunbeds and eat something. Once you are done with the beach time, walk up the stairs to the main road where you can grab a bus back to Positano.
- Day 3: Take the ferry to Sorrento, another lovely trip into the Bay of Naples. Spend the morning exploring Sorrento town. For the afternoon, make sure to take the lift down to Bagni Salvatore for a swim, a real gem of Sorrento, for both food and view. Back to Positano by bus for the great view on the Coastal Road.
- Day 3 (Alternative): join the Vespa Tour on the Amalfi Coast, the coolest way to explore the area in Italian style with a guide
If you are wondering where to stay in Positano, here below you will find a few suggested accommodations of which the Alcione Residence is my favourite.
- Hotels for couples: Alcione Residence (value for money), Torre Trasita (in a tower, one of the most unique accommodations in Positano), Hotel Poseidon (mid-range, with pool and view), Moro Di Positano (budget with parking)
- Experiences: Vespa Tour on the Amalfi Coast
Three days in Amalfi Coast for families
Positano and Sorrento are both great towns to spend your time with your family and kids
Sorrento (little kids)
Sorrento has plenty to explore, so many things to do and places to visit.
The great thing about this cliff town is that it is relatively flat.
Do you want to go down to the beach? Easy, take the lift.
For this reason, it works so well if you are travelling with small kids and even a pram.
Moreover, there is a great pedestrian area to walk around in the evening without worrying too much about the traffic
From Sorrento, you can easily take a quick train to Pompeii, a bus to Positano or a ferry to Amalfi for a day trip
Alternatively, you can join a small group for an Amalfi Coast Tour by van or even better by boat
If you fly to Naples Airport, there is a direct bus to Sorrento. Very handy and great value, run by Curreri Viaggi.
If you are wondering where to stay in Sorrento, I have listed below a few options, including also experiences you can do from Sorrento
Accommodations and experiences in Sorrento:
- Airbnb: Sun Suite (1BR quiet, close to the centre), I Giardini di Cataldo (1BR, spacious, up to 4 people) and Casa Lolla (1BR, value for money).
- Experiences: Van Tour of the Amalfi Coast, Boat Tour of the Amalfi Coast
Positano (grown-up)
Positano is a town with steep lanes and stairs. It may actually be great fun for grown-up kids.
It has two nice beaches, Main Beach and Fornillo Beach, where you can spend your time sunbathing
Moreover, you can easily take a bus or a ferry boat to Amalfi and other interesting towns, including Maiori where you will find the widest and longest sandy beach.
From Maiori, you can also do the short Sentiero dei Limoni (Lemons Walk) to Minori, where you can take the ferry or bus back to Positano
In Positano, I also suggest joining the Beach & Snorkelling Boat Tour, such great fun for any age.
Accommodations and experiences in Positano:
- Airbnb: Villa Dani (2BR apartment meters from the beach and the town centre), Caravella Positano Apartments (with private beach), La Nunziata (1BR, up to 4 people)
- Experiences: Beach & Snorkelling Boat Tour
3 days in Amalfi Coast for history
The area has some amazing historical sites and the best way to explore them is by staying in Sorrento, so well connected by public transportation.
There is also a direct bus (Curreri Viaggi) that runs from Naples Airport to Sorrento
Day | Hotel | Activities | Lunch/dinner |
---|---|---|---|
Day 1 | Palazzo Marziale (Sorrento) | 1. Explore historical places in Sorrento 2. Visit Vallone dei Mulini 3. Visit Bagni Regina Giovanna for sunset and swim | Lunch: AZZ! Italian Tavern Dinner: 86 BistrĂ² |
Day 2 | Palazzo Marziale (Sorrento) | 1. Visit Pompeii Archeological Park 2. Visit Herculaneum Historical Park (optional) | Dinner: Il Buco |
Day 3 | Palazzo Marziale (Sorrento) | 1. Ferry to Maiori 2. Visit Castle of San Nicola de Thoro-Plano 3. Walk Sentiero dei Limoni to Minori 4. Visit Villa Romana e Antiquarium in Minori | Lunch: Maiori Food Coast |
- Day 1: This is a day fully dedicated to Sorrento. So many historical places to visit. The most intriguing one is probably the Vallone dei Mulini (Mills Valley) reclaimed by the nature, with plants and trees all around the buildings, right in the centre of the town. In the late afternoon, have a drive, take the bus/taxi or just walk (3km) to Bagni Regina Giovanna, an ancient Roman Villa, for the lovely sunset and a swim in the natural pool.
- Day 2: In the morning, take the direct Campania Express train to the Herculaneum Historical Park (2-3 hours for a visit) and leave the afternoon for Pompeii (4-5 hours). If too much, I suggest visiting Pompeii only. This is one of the biggest Archeological Parks in the world and the entire site can take up to 1 day to visit it. Take your time.
- Day 3: Take the ferry to Maiori (change in Amalfi where you can visit the Duomo) and walk up (1.5km) to the Castle of San Nicola de Thoro-Plano. Besides the beautiful view, the passionate guide will tell you all you need to know about the place. Back to Maiori for lunch at Maiori Food Coast (a family-run restaurant with gorgeous food). In the afternoon, take a walk to Minori through the Sentiero dei Limoni (Lemons Walk). Once in town, visit one of the hidden gems of the coast, the Villa Romana e Antiquarium. Back to Sorrento by bus (quicker, for a different experience).
The best places to stay in Sorrento are around the historical centre, however, don’t discount the other areas if you are after more value for money.
Accommodations in Sorrento:
- Airbnb: Sun Suite (1BR quiet, close to the centre), I Giardini di Cataldo (1BR, spacious, up to 4 people) and Casa Lolla (1BR, value for money).
- Hotels: Palazzo Marziale (boutique hotel), Lemon Rooms (guest house with affordable rooms)
More guides about the Amalfi Coast
- Where to stay in the Amalfi Coast, the best (and worst) towns to book your holiday
- 33 great experiences to have on the Amalfi Coast, including a few hidden gems
- Getting around the Amalfi Coast with or without a car [what works best]
- Amalfi or Positano – A full comparison
- Best itineraries of the Amalfi Coast for 4, 5, 7 or 10 days (with maps and daily plans)
Three days to explore everything
From beaches to historical sites, you’ll find a bit of everything in this itinerary.
The best place to be based is Positano, central to most of the attractions and things to do
Day | Hotel | Activities | Lunch/dinner |
---|---|---|---|
Day 1 | Alcione (Positano) | 1. Explore Positano 2. Visit the main beach and Fornillo Beach or Arienzo Beach | Lunch: Posides Cafe |
Day 2 | Alcione (Positano) | 1. Organized tour to visit Pompeii and Vesuvius | Dinner: Li Galli or Mirage Restaurant |
Day 3 | Alcione (Positano) | 1. Ferry to Amalfi 2. Explore Amalfi and Torre dello Ziro 3. Ferry to Sorrento 4. Explore Sorrento and return to Positano by bus | Lunch: Dejavu Cafe Dinner: Li Galli or Mirage Restaurant |
Day 3 (Alternative) | Alcione (Positano) | Path of the Gods trekking day with an organized tour |
- Day 1: Wonder around Positano in the morning. Lunch at Posides Cafe (family owned and operated). Afterwards, walk down to the main beach for the spectacular view and then take the coastal trail to Fornillo Beach for a much quieter setting. Alternatively, stroll to the boutique Arienzo Beach, located just 700m away from Positano.
- Day 2: This is the big day of this itinerary. Join this organised tour to visit Pompeii in the morning and Vesuvius in the afternoon. You will kill two birds with one stone. Two unique destinations that you will remember forever.
- Day 3: Take the ferry to Amalfi, the other iconic destination of the Amalfi Coast. Visit the lovely town and if you still have some spare time, walk up to the Torre dello Ziro. Lunch at Dejavu Cafe. In the afternoon, grab the ferry to Sorrento, another amazing and unmissable destination, where you will spend the afternoon. Bus back to Positano to experience the beautiful view from the coastal road.
- Day 3 (Alternative): Get ready for the best trekking day on the Amalfi Coast, the Path of the Gods. Join this organised tour for a no-worries experience.
Accommodations and experiences in Positano:
- Airbnb for families: La Nunziata (1BR amazing value for money), Caravella Positano Apartments (with private beach)
- Hotels for couples: Alcione Residence (value for money), Torre Trasita (in a tower, one of the most unique accommodations in Positano), Hotel Poseidon (mid-range, with pool and view), Moro Di Positano (budget with parking)
- Experiences: Pompeii and Vesuvio on a day trip, Path of the Gods trekking day
Frequently Asked Questions for 3 days in Amalfi Coast
Is 3 days enough for Amalfi Coast?
My favourite length is 5 days, however, you can see a lot if you plan well in advance. Stay in Positano if you are looking into a central area to explore the coast.
Is 3 days enough in Positano?
Yes, it is. You will be able to get a good sense of the town and you will be able to explore the town, the beaches and the nearby areas and villages.
Is it cheaper to stay in Amalfi or Positano?
On a simple price comparison between Amalfi and Positano, well, Amalfi wins if you are looking for a cheaper place to stay.
Best time to visit the Amalfi Coast?
Spring is the best time, with already warm weather and fewer tourists around. The only drawback is that the water is still a bit cold.
How many days in Amalfi Coast?
Ideally between 5 and 7 days. With a week in the Amalfi Coast, you will be able to explore also places like Sorrento, Capri, the Vesuvius and more