Exploring the Amalfi Coast at a Leisurely Pace

Getting to Positano from Naples typically takes about an hour and a half, whether by car, ferry, or a combination of both. Personally, I recommend arranging a private transfer with an English-speaking driver. It’s the most seamless option and allows you to take in some of the coastline along the way without the stress of navigating on your own.

Once you arrive, take a little time to settle in, unpack, and start soaking it all in. There’s no need to rush, this is one of those places best enjoyed slowly.

For your first evening, I suggest a relaxed dinner at La Taverna del Leone. It’s a longtime local favorite with a warm, welcoming feel and a thoughtful take on regional cuisine. I’ll take care of reserving this for you ahead of time, especially during peak season. Having reservations in place makes all the difference.

Now that you’ve settled in, ease into the morning with a relaxed breakfast before heading out to explore Positano. Spend time wandering its winding streets, taking in the views and browsing local boutiques. A couple of my favorites are Antica Sartoria by Giacomo Cinque and Bottega di Brunella.

For lunch, stop by Casa e Bottega for something light and refreshing (no reservation needed—just arrive before they close at 3 p.m.).

Spend the afternoon at the beach or exploring quieter paths just beyond the main streets.

As evening approaches, enjoy an aperitivo overlooking the sea before dinner at La Sponda, where I recommend the seafood tasting menu. I’ll take care of reservations so everything flows seamlessly.

Today is all about experiencing the Amalfi Coast from the water, truly the best perspective. I’ll arrange a private boat for you, departing from Positano, so everything is seamless and tailored to your pace.

As you cruise along the coastline, you’ll pass dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and the colorful villages that make this stretch so iconic. Along the way, you’ll see highlights like the Grotta Bianca and Grotta Verde before arriving at the Blue Grotto in Capri, known for its vivid, glowing blue water. From there, continue along the island’s southern coast past Marina Piccola, the Faraglioni, Villa Malaparte, and the Punta Carena Lighthouse.

Throughout the day, there’s plenty of time to swim, relax, or simply take it all in. Whether that’s a dip in the Mediterranean or a glass of wine on deck.

You’ll return to Positano in the late afternoon, just as the light softens over the cliffs, one of my favorite times of day here.

Ease into a slower morning at Hotel Poseidon, spending time by the pool and taking in the views over Positano.

For lunch, I recommend Il Tridente—a relaxed setting with beautiful views and fresh, seasonal dishes.

Enjoy a bit of downtime in the afternoon, whether that’s resting, wandering through town, or simply soaking it all in from your terrace.

As the evening approaches, head to Franco’s Bar for cocktails at sunset—it’s one of my favorite spots for the view and atmosphere. From there, continue to Al Palazzo for dinner, where the garden setting makes for a really special, relaxed close to the day.

Set out in the morning for Sorrento. I’ll arrange your transportation from Positano so the day is easy and seamless.

Once you arrive, you’ll head to a countryside farm for a hands-on pizza-making experience, paired with local wine and a tasting of fresh limoncello. It’s a fun, relaxed way to experience a more local side of the region.

Afterward, spend some time exploring Sorrento at your own pace. Wandering the streets, browsing artisan shops, and taking in the coastal views as the town eases into the evening.

For dinner, I recommend Ristorante Bagni Delfino, a longtime favorite set right along the water, known for its fresh seafood and laid-back atmosphere.

After dinner, you’ll return to Positano, with a scenic drive along the coast to close out the day.

At this point in your journey, you have two great options depending on how you’d like to experience the rest of the coast.

Option 1: Stay in Positano

Continue using Positano as your home base and explore nearby towns like Amalfi and Ravello by day. It’s an easy, flexible option if you prefer not to move hotels.

Option 2: Move to Amalfi (my recommendation for a change of pace)

After a few days in Positano, I love introducing a second home base. I’ll arrange your transfer along the coast to Amalfi, where the pace feels a bit more grounded and local.

For your stay, I recommend Hotel Santa Caterina, one of the most iconic properties on the coast, known for its stunning cliffside setting and exceptional service. When booking through me, you’ll receive a few additional perks to elevate your stay, including an upgrade on arrival (when available), daily breakfast for two, a $100 food and beverage credit, and the flexibility of early check-in or late check-out when possible. Grab lunch at Al Mare, the hotel’s casual, seaside restaurant, set down at the beach club level. It is arguably one of the most beautiful lunch settings on the coast.

Spend the afternoon at leisure. If you’re up for a bit of exploring, a visit to the Amalfi Cathedral is a beautiful introduction to the town.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at Trattoria Da Gemma, a longstanding favorite known for its warm hospitality and refined take on coastal cuisine. If you’re a fan of sourdough, they make fresh bread every day in house.

This morning, I recommend heading up to Ravello. I’ll arrange your transportation so it’s an easy, scenic drive above the coastline.

Once there, take your time exploring Villa Cimbrone (don’t miss the Terrace of Infinity) and Villa Rufolo, both known for their gardens and incredible views.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch or simply wander Ravello’s quieter streets before heading back to Amalfi in the afternoon.

For your final evening, I recommend dinner at Eolo, a beautiful setting with panoramic views, and a perfect way to close out your time on the Amalfi Coast.

After checking out, I’ll arrange your transfer to Naples, it is a scenic 1–1.5 hour drive.

Upon arrival, settle into Grand Hotel Parker’s and take a little time to unwind.

In the afternoon, ease into Naples with a relaxed walk. Whether that’s through the historic center or simply stopping for a coffee and taking in the rhythm of the city.

For dinner, I recommend L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, a classic, no-frills experience and one of the best places to try traditional Neapolitan pizza done exactly right. My personal favorite is the arugula and prosciutto. Be sure to save room for the tiramisu!

This morning, I’ll arrange your visit to Pompeii. It is one of those places where history really comes to life as you walk through the preserved streets and ruins.

Return to Naples in the afternoon and enjoy some time at your own pace, whether that’s exploring a bit more of the city or simply relaxing back at the hotel.

For your final evening, I recommend dinner at La Cantinella, set right along the waterfront with a refined but relaxed feel. It will provide an easy yet elegant way to close out your time in Italy.

Ease into your final morning in Naples with a relaxed start. Perhaps a quiet coffee and one last stroll through the city.

From here, you’ll either head home or continue your journey through Italy. If you have more time, I recommend heading north to Florence and the surrounding Tuscany for a slower, countryside experience, or to Rome for a completely different pace filled with history and iconic landmarks.

Whichever path you choose, it’s a beautiful close, or continuation, of your time in Italy.