Road Tripping Along The Amalfi Coast In Italy – The Perfect 7 Day Itinerary

Journey Through Italy’s Most Picturesque Coastline with Budget Car Rentals

The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Italy’s most picturesque and enchanting destinations. Stretching along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula, this 50-kilometer stretch of coastline is famous for its stunning cliffs, charming villages, and lush Mediterranean landscape. A road trip along the Amalfi Coast offers an unparalleled experience of Italy’s natural beauty, history, and culture. Here’s a detailed itinerary to help you explore this mesmerizing region.

Overview

The Amalfi Coast extends along the southern edge of the Sorrento Peninsula, protruding from the mainland at the southern terminus of the Bay of Naples. This stunning region is home to some of Italy’s most renowned towns, including Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello.

Start at Naples

Fly into Naples International Airport (NAP). Once you’ve collected your luggage, rent a car from Budget Car Rentals. The rental counter is within the terminal with a shuttle to the car lot and drive to Vico Equence. Budget’s lineup caters to those looking for the best city cars with matching fuel efficiency ratings, in addition to offering minivans and sedans, as well as compact and eco-friendly alternatives.

Driving Directions: From Naples Airport, get on A56 from Via Oreste Salomone. Then, take E45 and A3 towards SS145 in Pompei. Continue on SS145 until you reach your destination in Vico Equense.

Vico Equense

The Bay of Naples is renowned for its Neapolitan pizza, which was created to showcase two local specialties: mozzarella and sun-ripened tomatoes. Beyond its charming historic center, this small clifftop town overlooking the bay boasts some of the area’s best pizza, including a unique by-the-meter option at the famed Pizza A Metro Da Gigino.

Driving Directions: To get from Vico Equense to Sorrento, follow the SS145 road for 12 km. You’ll travel along the scenic coastline after passing Marina di Equa, then head inland near Meta.

Sorrento

Sorrento exudes a relaxed southern Italian charm. According to Greek mythology, the waters around Sorrento were home to the legendary sirens. These enchanting creatures sang beautiful songs that irresistibly drew sailors to their doom. Sorrento is dotted with waterfront restaurants, spacious piazzas, charming antique shops, and stretches of crystal-clear blue water.

Driving Directions: Follow the SS145 for 8 km to reach Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi. As you drive further inland, the sunlit village streets gradually transition into forested areas.

Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi

Nestled in the hills above Sorrento, the tranquil village of Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi offers breathtaking views of both the Bay of Naples and the Bay of Salerno. For the best vantage point, head to the roof terrace of the Il Deserto convent, located about half a mile (1 kilometer) to the northwest. If the convent is not accessible, take the small road leading in the opposite direction to Torca, a hamlet with equally breathtaking panoramas.

Driving Directions: The journey from Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi to Marina del Cantone spans 9 km, with the final stretch featuring challenging hairpin turns. Stay focused on the road despite the tempting sea views along the way.

Marina del Cantone

This quiet village, featuring a small pebble beach, is both a serene place to stay and a favored spot for diving enthusiasts. Renowned for its culinary delights, Marina del Cantone attracts VIPs from Capri who come to savor seafood at the acclaimed restaurant, Lo Scoglio.

Driving Directions: To return to Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi, take the switchback road. Then, follow the SS145 and subsequently the SS163, which wind along cliffs and bluffs, offering breathtaking sea views for most of the 24 km journey to Positano.

Positano

Positano stands out as the gem of the coast, renowned for its picturesque and upscale atmosphere. Its tightly clustered houses display a palette of peaches, pinks, and terracottas, set against steep streets and staircases adorned with stylish shops, luxurious hotels, and fine dining establishments.

Driving Directions: Traveling from Positano to Praiano is a brief 6 km journey on the SS163. Along the way, you’ll pass by Il San Pietro di Positano around the midpoint before continuing southeast along the edge of the peninsula.

Praiano

Praiano, an ancient fishing village that has evolved into a quiet summer retreat and burgeoning arts hub, offers a charming experience. Its whitewashed houses dot the lush ridge of Monte Sant’Angelo, sloping toward Capo Sottile. Exploration typically involves navigating numerous steps, with several trails starting from town, including the famed Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods).

Driving Directions: Driving Directions: From Praiano, continue for just 3 km to reach Marina di Furore, passing scenic coves that carve into the coastline along the way.

Marina di Furore

A short distance ahead, Marina di Furore is nestled at the base of the Furore fjord, a massive gorge that slices through the Lattari mountains. The main village, located 300 meters above, occupies the upper Vallone del Furore and attracts few tourists and maintains a distinctly rural atmosphere.

Driving Directions: To get from Marina di Furore to Amalfi, follow the SS163 coastal road eastward for 6 km. Enjoy views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea along the way, passing through Vettica Minore and Conca dei Marini. Admire the clusters of fragrant cypress trees that dot the landscape.

Amalfi

Amalfi was historically one of Italy’s four significant maritime republics, alongside Venice, Pisa, and Genoa. The 12th-century Tavole Amalfitane, among the world’s oldest maritime codes, once regulated Mediterranean Sea trade. Today, Amalfi’s picturesque seafront, abundance of cafes and shops, and pleasant climate make it a highly popular resort destination. However, be prepared for elevated prices and crowds during peak seasons.

Driving Directions: Begin your 7 km journey to Ravello by traveling along the coast towards Atrani. From there, turn inland and take the SR373, which ascends the steep hillside with a series of tight hairpin turns, typically navigated in second gear, leading up to Ravello.

Ravello

Ravello is renowned as one of the most charming and picturesque small towns in southern Italy. Perched on steep, terraced slopes, it boasts lush gardens, tranquil streets, sun-soaked corners, and an elevated position at 1,198 feet offering unforgettable views of the azure coast below. Central to Ravello are Duomo of Saint Mary of the Assumption (an 11th-century cathedral) and Villa Rufolo, one of two famous villas in the town. Built in the 13th century, Villa Rufolo has hosted guests ranging from popes to kings. The views from its picturesque gardens are stunning, as are those from the nearby Villa Cimbrone.

Driving Directions: Return to the SS163 for a 19 km journey that winds along the coast to Cetara, a route is characterized by challenging twists and turns.

Cetara

Cetara is a charming fishing village known for its culinary excellence. With a history dating back to medieval times as a prominent fishing center, it boasts one of the Mediterranean’s significant deep-sea tuna fleets today. At night, local fishermen venture out in small boats equipped with powerful lamps to catch anchovies, which, alongside tuna, are staples in the village’s cuisine. Ristorante Cetara Punto e Pasta, a renowned seafood restaurant near the quaint harbor, prominently features these local delicacies on its menu.

Driving Directions: To reach Vietri sul Mare from Cetara, travel northeast for 6 km on the SS163. Along the way, you’ll encounter more winding roads and breathtaking views across the Golfo di Salerno.

Vietri sul Mare

Vietri sul Mare is renowned as the ceramics hub of Campania, marking the culmination of the coastal road. While ceramic production traces its roots to Roman times, it flourished into an industry during the 16th and 17th centuries. Visit Ceramica Artistica Solimene to shop for unique ceramic souvenirs. The sprawling factory outlet is notable for its stunning glass and ceramic façade.

With careful planning, a spirit of adventure, and renting a car from Budget Car Rentals, your Amalfi Coast road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Budget offers a compelling blend of affordability, convenience, and quality service, making it an excellent choice for travelers exploring Europe. Budget provides competitive rates and special deals, such as their UK and Europe Summer Deal, ensuring cost-effectiveness without compromising on comfort or reliability. With a wide range of vehicles to choose from, including compact cars ideal for city exploration and spacious options for family trips, Budget caters to diverse travel needs. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in easy booking processes, flexible rental periods, wide selection of loyalty programs and memberships and comprehensive support services.

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