The Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive is often described as one of the most breathtaking journeys in the world. Stretching along southern Italy’s Campania region, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers an extraordinary blend of rugged cliffs, colorful seaside towns, turquoise waters, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Travelers come here from every corner of the globe to explore the Amalfi Coast drive route, discover charming villages like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, and enjoy world-class luxury stays overlooking the Mediterranean.
If you dream of a road trip filled with stunning landscapes, history, and indulgence, the Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive itinerary is an experience you must add to your bucket list. This guide will walk you through everything: maps, routes, day trips, driving skills required, must-see towns, and tips for making your Amalfi road trip smooth and memorable.
The Amalfi Coast has become legendary for its dramatic beauty. The road itself, known as the Strada Statale 163 Amalfitana (SS163), winds for about 50 kilometers (30 miles) from Sorrento to Vietri sul Mare. Hugging steep cliffs and offering hairpin bends with jaw-dropping views, it’s one of the most photographed drives in Europe.
Travelers often describe this Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive by car as thrilling yet rewarding. The route reveals pastel-colored villages clinging to cliffs, lemon groves cascading down hills, ancient churches, and panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Every bend feels like stepping into a postcard.
Planning your trip starts with a clear understanding of the Amalfi Coast drive map. The route runs through iconic towns including:
Positano – Famous for steep streets, boutique shopping, and pebble beaches.
Amalfi – Once a maritime powerhouse, home to the stunning Amalfi Cathedral.
Ravello – Known for its romantic gardens and music festivals.
Praiano, Maiori, Minori, and Atrani – Smaller villages offering authentic local charm.
Vietri sul Mare – Famous for hand-painted ceramics.
If you plan a 7-day Amalfi Coast road trip, many travelers start in Naples or Sorrento and end in Salerno. Having a digital Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive map download on Google Maps or GPX files ensures smooth navigation, especially since internet coverage in some cliffside areas can be limited.
A typical Amalfi Coast road trip itinerary can be tailored depending on your travel style. Here’s a suggested plan:
Day 1: Naples to Sorrento
Pick up a rental car in Naples.
Stop at Pompeii or Mount Vesuvius.
Overnight in Sorrento to ease into coastal life.
Day 2: Sorrento to Positano
Drive along the SS163.
Stop for viewpoints and photographs.
Enjoy a beach evening or rooftop dinner in Positano.
Day 3: Explore Positano & Praiano
Take short hikes, enjoy seaside cafes.
Sunset views in Praiano are spectacular.
Day 4: Positano to Amalfi
Visit Amalfi Cathedral and Piazza del Duomo.
Try local specialties like limoncello.
Day 5: Amalfi to Ravello
Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone gardens.
Stay overnight for a quieter, romantic experience.
Day 6: Amalfi Coast boat or ferry ride
Swap driving for a scenic boat ride.
Explore hidden coves and Capri island.
Day 7: Ravello to Salerno
End your journey in Salerno.
Return your car or continue your Italian road trip.
This Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive itinerary balances driving with time to explore each town, creating a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Many travelers base themselves in Positano and then branch out to explore the coast. Driving from Positano to Amalfi or Ravello is shorter but still offers sweeping cliffside views. Since Positano is centrally located, it’s ideal for day trips while staying in one luxurious accommodation.
For those hesitant to drive, you can also experience the Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive by bus. The local SITA buses are affordable but crowded during peak season. Alternatively, Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive by train is not possible since trains don’t run along the coast itself, but you can combine trains to Sorrento or Salerno with buses or car rentals.
The Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive conditions can be challenging for beginners. Here are essential tips:
Driving skills matter: Roads are narrow with sharp curves. Confidence is key.
Avoid peak season traffic: May–September can be congested. Try April or October.
Parking is limited: Book hotels with parking or use paid lots.
Local driving habits: Italians drive fast and confidently, stay calm and focused.
Car size: Smaller cars are easier to maneuver. Avoid large SUVs.
If driving feels too stressful, consider hiring a private driver or joining guided road trips. This way, you can still enjoy the scenic beauty without worrying about traffic.
A trip along the Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive is incomplete without indulging in a luxury stay. Many travelers book cliffside hotels with infinity pools overlooking the sea. Popular areas for luxury stays include:
Positano: Boutique hotels with terraces above the sea.
Ravello: Quiet villas with private gardens.
Amalfi: Larger resorts with beach access.
Luxury stays often include private tours, Amalfi Coast wine tastings, and spa services to elevate the experience.
While the road trip itself is stunning, you can enhance your experience with unique activities:
Cycling the Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive – For adventurous travelers.
Hiking the Path of the Gods – Famous trekking route with epic views.
Drone photography – Capturing cliffs and villages from above.
Boat tours to Capri Island – Adds a glamorous twist to your road trip.
Total distance: ~50 km / 30 miles.
Driving time: 2–3 hours without stops.
Best duration: 4–7 days for full experience.
Start/End: Sorrento to Salerno (or reverse).
For travelers coming from Rome, it’s about a 3-hour drive to Naples, followed by 1–2 hours to Sorrento. International visitors often rent cars at Naples airport to start their journey.
This is a common concern for travelers. While the road is narrow and requires focus, it is safe for experienced drivers. The key is to drive slowly, stay alert at curves, and avoid traveling during heavy traffic hours. Many first-time drivers describe it as thrilling rather than dangerous.
The Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive in Italy is more than just a road trip. It’s a journey through culture, history, luxury, and natural beauty. Whether you drive yourself, hire a private car, or explore by boat, this experience remains one of the world’s most iconic travel adventures.
With a well-planned Amalfi Coast drive itinerary, you’ll witness pastel villages, sip limoncello at sunset, and stay in luxury cliffside hotels—all while enjoying one of the most scenic drives around the world.
If you are building a bucket list of once-in-a-lifetime road trips, the Amalfi Coast should be right at the top.
“The Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive was the highlight of my Italy trip. The winding cliffs and sea views were simply unforgettable.”
“I rented a car from Naples and the Amalfi Coast drive route was breathtaking. Positano and Ravello are must-see stops.”
“The 7-day Amalfi Coast road trip gave me enough time to enjoy both the coastal towns and luxury stays. Worth every euro!”
“Driving from Positano to Amalfi was magical. The Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive map helped us explore hidden villages too.”
“I loved the drone views along the Amalfi Coast scenic drive. Every corner felt like a postcard.”
“We booked a private tour and it made the Amalfi Coast experience stress-free. The driver knew the safest routes.”
“Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive with my husband was the most romantic trip of our life. The luxury villa stay was perfect.”
“I combined the Amalfi Coast drive with a Capri Island visit. It was an excellent itinerary for 5 days.”
“The Amalfi Coast drive from Rome was long but worth it. Renting a car gave us flexibility for photography stops.”
“I was nervous about the narrow roads, but driving skills improved quickly. The Amalfi Coast scenic drive is safe if careful.”
“Every moment on the Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive felt cinematic. Highly recommend staying in Ravello for stunning views.”
“The Amalfi Coast road trip was challenging but rewarding. The cliffside turns are thrilling if you love adventure.”
The Amalfi Coast scenic coastal drive is around 50 kilometers, stretching from Sorrento to Salerno with breathtaking views along the way.
The best time is late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and roads are less crowded.
The roads are narrow and winding with cliffside turns, but if you drive carefully, it is safe and truly unforgettable.
Yes, non-EU visitors usually need an International Driving Permit along with their national driving license to drive on the Amalfi Coast.
Yes, car rentals are available in Naples, Sorrento, and Rome for travelers wanting to explore the Amalfi Coast by car.
The most popular itinerary includes Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Salerno with scenic stops along the way.
A 3 to 7 day road trip is recommended to fully explore the towns, beaches, and luxury stays along the Amalfi Coast.
Yes, local buses (SITA) connect most Amalfi Coast towns, but driving gives you more flexibility and scenic stops.
Yes, private and shared tours with professional drivers are available for those who prefer not to drive themselves.
Must-see towns include Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, Praiano, and Minori, each offering unique charm and views.
You can download an Amalfi Coast scenic drive map online or use Google Maps for updated driving routes.
Parking is limited in popular towns like Positano and Amalfi, so it is best to arrive early or book hotels with private parking.
Luxury hotels and villas range from €300 to over €1000 per night, depending on the season and location.
Yes, you can take a ferry from Amalfi or Positano to Capri for a day trip during your scenic road journey.
Absolutely! It is one of the most iconic road trips in the world, offering dramatic cliffs, Mediterranean views, and charming towns.
