If you’re visiting Italy’s coast soon, you might be torn between Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast.
Both offer mesmerizing coastal scenery with village-like vibes, Mediterranean food, and Instagram-worthy hotels.
What if you didn’t have to choose just one? With this 7-day Cinque Terre and Amalfi Coast itinerary, you can enjoy both!
I’ve been to Italy a handful of times and from experience, I can say that a coastal itinerary like this deserves a place on your bucket list.
Inside this week-long itinerary, I’ve included restaurants, cafes, attractions, and hotel suggestions to make your life easier. Let’s get started!
Craving more of Italy? Check out these Instagrammable towns in Italy.
7-Day Itinerary for Cinque Terre and Amalfi Coast At a Glance
- Day 1: Arrive in Pisa, explore the Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli, take the train to Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre, and settle into your accommodation.
- Day 2: Hike or take the train from Riomaggiore to Manarola, explore the village, relax by the harbor, and enjoy a seafood dinner with sea views.
- Day 3: Visit Corniglia, explore its quiet streets, then head to Vernazza for a stroll around the harbor and visit to Castello Doria.
- Day 4: Explore Monterosso al Mare, relax on the beach, then travel to Amalfi/Positano by train and ferry; settle into your accommodation for a peaceful evening.
- Day 5: Spend the day in Positano, relaxing on Spiaggia Grande, take a boat tour along the coast, and enjoy dinner overlooking the sea.
- Day 6: Explore Amalfi, visit Amalfi Cathedral, then head to Ravello to explore the gardens of Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.
- Day 7: Take a day trip to Capri, visit Capri Town and Anacapri, explore the Blue Grotto or take a boat tour, then return to Amalfi for dinner.
For you to easily navigate the attractions, things to do, and whole itinerary, I made a map for you.
Click here for a live version of the map!
How to Spend 7 Days in Cinque Terre and Amalfi Coast
It’s time to get down to the good stuff: how to spend a week in the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre.
Arrival
For this itinerary, you’ll want to fly to Pisa (PSA).
For this trip, I recommend not renting a car for a few reasons:
Cinque Terre: The villages are not car-friendly. They are connected by train, hiking trails, and ferries, and parking is very limited and often expensive. The local train is the most convenient way to travel between the five villages, and cars are not allowed in the villages themselves.
Amalfi Coast: The roads along the coast, especially the famous SS163, are narrow, winding, and can be challenging to navigate. Parking can be difficult to find and expensive, especially in towns like Positano and Amalfi. Buses, ferries, and private transfers are more relaxing and allow you to enjoy the stunning coastal views without the stress of driving.
Public Transportation: Both regions have excellent public transportation options. Trains connect Pisa to Cinque Terre, and once you’re in the Amalfi Coast area, ferries and buses are efficient for getting around.
In short, relying on public transport, ferries, and walking/hiking will enhance your experience and make the trip smoother, especially in these picturesque and compact regions.
From my experience, you’ll have a much better trip if you avoid renting a car!
Day 1: Arrive in Pisa, Head to Cinque Terre
- Travel time: ~1 hour 10 minutes from Pisa (PSA) Airport.
- Reserve your stay: Scorci Di Mare
- Morning: Arrive in Pisa. Spend some time exploring the city. Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Piazza dei Miracoli, and Pisa Cathedral.
- Afternoon: Take a train from Pisa to La Spezia, the gateway to Cinque Terre (about 1.5 hours).
- Evening: Arrive in Riomaggiore (the first village in Cinque Terre), check into your accommodation, and enjoy a relaxed evening exploring the village and its harbor.
Morning: Explore Pisa
On Day 1, you’ll arrive in Pisa and spend your morning exploring the city’s iconic landmarks.
After settling in from your flight, head straight to Piazza dei Miracoli, where you can admire the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, the beautiful Pisa Cathedral, and the Baptistery.
Pisa Centrale offers luggage storage services. You can leave your bags there while you explore the city.
The storage facility is typically open during standard hours, and it’s a convenient option if you’re traveling by train afterward.
There are third-party luggage storage services like LuggageHero or Stasher in Pisa.
These services partner with local shops, cafes, and hotels, allowing you to drop off your bags for a few hours at a reasonable rate. I have used Stasher and highly recommend.
You can book your luggage storage completely online. When you arrive in Pisa, you can show the Stasher attendent your ID and confirmation email. From they’re they’ll safely store your luggage!
When you’re ready to leave, return to them, show your ID and email then pick up your belongings. Click here to check our Stasher!
🚆Click here to book your train tickets from Pisa to Riomaggiore!
Afternoon: Arrive in Riomaggiore
Snap some photos and soak in the historic atmosphere (oo la la) before grabbing a quick lunch nearby.
In the early afternoon, you’ll take a train from Pisa to La Spezia and then transfer to Riomaggiore, the first and one of the best villages of Cinque Terre.
After checking into your accommodation, spend the evening strolling through Riomaggiore’s narrow streets, visiting its charming harbor, and enjoying the breathtaking coastal views.
Riomaggiore looks unreal and offers plenty to discover and admire, starting with its colorful stone houses and a harbor filled with traditional fishing boats.
Dinner: Sunset in Riomaggiore
For your time in Cinque Terre, I totally recommend getting the Cinque Terre Card!
It’ll allow you to travel between towns via train at a discount — completely worth it from my experience!
End the day with a relaxed dinner at a local seafood restaurant, watching the sunset over the Ligurian Sea.
Since today has been a large travel day, I recommend calling it a night after sunset. Tomorrow you’ll get to do more exploring!
Note that there aren’t many restaurants here, so make sure you make reservations everywhere you want to eat.
You can’t go wrong with the Michelin-starred Rio Bistrot for authentic Ligurian specialties, and Old School Riomaggiore is great for cocktails and classic Italian dishes.
🌞 Reserve your stay: Scorci Di Mare is a fantastic mid-range stay with ocean views.
Day 2: Explore Riomaggiore and Manarola
- Travel time: ~5-30 minutes (depending on travel mode)
- Reserve your stay: Scorci Di Mare
- Morning: Hike the coastal trail from Riomaggiore to Manarola (Via dell’Amore, if open) or take the train.
- Afternoon: Explore Manarola, famous for its picturesque harbor and colorful houses. Enjoy a seafood lunch with views of the Ligurian Sea.
- Evening: Return to Riomaggiore or stay in Manarola for sunset and dinner at one of the cliffside restaurants.
Morning: Breakfast in Riomaggiore
On Day 2, you’ll start your morning in Riomaggiore, taking in the stunning views of the colorful cliffside village.
Since you’re in Riomaggiore, you can go to Bar O’Netto, a pub that doubles as a cafe.
After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll set out on the scenic hike or quick train ride to Manarola, one of the most picturesque villages in Cinque Terre.
Late Morning to Afternoon: Explore Manarola
If you’re up for an adventure, hike Via dell’Amore (The Way of Love), which leads along a dramatic coastline to the village of Manarola.
This is probably the most popular trail in Cinque Terre (as it’s part of what’s called Blue Trail) but it’s nothing to be afraid of, haha.
Trust me, you can do it on day one as it’s a 0.6 mile trail with about 100ft in elevation gain — the alternative here is to take the train!
As you arrive in Manarola, you’ll be captivated by the vibrant houses perched on the cliffs above the sparkling blue sea.
Spend time wandering the narrow streets, visiting local shops, and perhaps enjoying a freshly caught seafood lunch by the harbor.
Take some time to relax by the water or hike up to the panoramic viewpoints for breathtaking photos.
Late Afternoon to Evening: Explore Riomaggiore
In the late afternoon, return to Riomaggiore for a relaxing evening, watching the sunset from the harbor or indulging in a seafood dinner with a glass of local wine.
If you’re up for it, you can also book an intimate pasta, pesto and tiramisu cooking class like this!
The class takes place in a historic XVI century private house, offering a traditional and intimate Italian cooking experience.
You’ll be learning to make regional dishes from scratch, including pesto (a Ligurian specialty), trofie pasta, and tiramisu, using local techniques passed down through generations.
With a small group setting, you’ll get personalized attention from the instructor, which ensures a hands-on and engaging experience. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the cooking process.
Click here to reserve your seat in your pasta making class!
Alternatively, head up to the highest point, Castello di Riomaggiore, a medieval castle with stunning views from which to watch the sunset.
Stroll along Via Colombo, the village’s main street filled with artisan shops, bars and restaurants.
🍝 Click here to check availability for this bestselling Riomaggiore pasta, pesto, tiramisu making class!
Day 3: Visit Corniglia and Vernazza
- Travel time: ~15 minutes by train, 1.5-2 hours if hiking
- Reserve your stay: Scorci Di Mare
- Morning: Take the train or hike to Corniglia, the only Cinque Terre village not directly on the water. Explore the narrow streets and enjoy panoramic views from the terraces.
- Afternoon: Head to Vernazza, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Visit Castello Doria for stunning views and enjoy gelato by the harbor.
- Evening: Stay in Vernazza for dinner and soak up the charming atmosphere.
Morning: Head to Corniglia
On Day 3, you’ll begin by heading to Corniglia, the only village in Cinque Terre perched high on a cliff, offering sweeping views of the coast.
After a climb up the famous Lardarina staircase, you’ll explore the charming streets and enjoy the quiet, laid-back atmosphere of this unique village.
Afternoon: Lunch at a Trattoria
Take in the panoramic views from one of the terraces before savoring a delicious lunch at a local trattoria, sampling the region’s fresh pesto or seafood dishes.
Trattoria de Billy offers fabulous views and food, whereas La Cantina dello Zio Bramante has live music and affordable bruschetta lunches.
In the afternoon, you’ll make your way to Vernazza, either by train or hiking along the scenic coastal path.
Evening: Dinner and Sunset in Vernazza
Once there, wander through the picturesque harbor, explore the historic Castello Doria, and visit the Church of Santa Margherita di Antiochia.
And the highly-rated Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre is the perfect place for a Mediterranean seafood affair.
End off your day wandering through Vernazza’s Old Town, filled with historic sites, photogenic buildings, and hidden alleys.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a gelato by the water, soaking in the beauty of one of Cinque Terre’s most iconic villages.
🌞 Reserve your stay: Albergo Barbara is a charming hotel is located right in the heart of Vernazza, with stunning views over the harbor and the colorful houses that make the village so picturesque. Stay here if you want to stay in Vernazza instead!
Day 4: Monterosso to Amalfi/Positano
- Travel time: ~6-8 hours (depending on connections)
- Reserve your stay: Hotel Savoia
- Morning: Visit Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the Cinque Terre villages, with beautiful beaches and historical landmarks like the Church of San Giovanni Battista.
- Afternoon: Take a train from La Spezia to Naples (about 5 – 6 hours), then transfer to the Amalfi Coast. Stay in Positano or Amalfi.
- Evening: Arrive and relax, enjoying a seaside dinner in Positano or Amalfi.
Morning: Explore Monterosso al Mare
On Day 4, you’ll start your morning in Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the Cinque Terre villages and known for its beautiful sandy beaches.
Spend time exploring the historic old town, visiting the Church of San Giovanni Battista, and strolling along the seaside promenade. You can relax on the beach or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
Afternoon: Depart Cinque Terre and head to the Amalfi Coast
After enjoying a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant, it’s time to say goodbye to Cinque Terre.
You’ll take the train back to La Spezia, and from there, catch a train or transfer to Naples.
To get from Naples to the Amalfi Coast, you have a few convenient options:
Private Transfer or Taxi (Most Comfortable): This is the easiest and most direct option, especially if you have luggage. You can book a private car or taxi from Naples to Amalfi or Positano, which will take about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. While it’s the most expensive option, it’s also the most hassle-free and scenic, as you’ll be driven along the famous coastal roads.
Train and Ferry (Scenic and Fun): Take a local train (or fast train) from Napoli Centrale to Salerno (about 40-50 minutes): From Salerno, you can take a scenic ferry to either Positano or Amalfi (about 1 hour). You can also book a direct ferry from Naples to Positano. Ferries operate regularly, especially in the warmer months, and provide a stunning coastal view as you arrive at your destination.
Bus (Budget-Friendly): Take the SITA bus from Naples to Amalfi or Positano. The bus leaves from the Naples Immacolatella/Porta Immacolatella stop or you can take a bus from Salerno to Amalfi. While inexpensive, the roads are windy and can be crowded, so it’s less comfortable than the other options but great for budget travelers.
Evening: Checkin and Unwind in Positano
Once you arrive, head to the beautiful Amalfi Coast, where you’ll check into your accommodation in Positano or Amalfi.
Both offer stunning views and easy access to transportation, dining, and the main attractions of the Amalfi Coast.
If you prefer a glamorous, iconic stay, stay in Positano. For a more historic and central location, stay in Amalfi.
For the remainder of this itinerary, I’ll assume you’re staying in Positano!
After a long travel day, unwind with a relaxed dinner at a charming local restaurant, enjoying the breathtaking coastal views as you settle into the Amalfi Coast’s magical atmosphere.
🌞 Reserve your stay: Hotel Savoia is located just a short walk from Positano’s main beach, this family-run hotel offers charming rooms, some with balconies and sea views. It’s a fantastic mid-range option in a great location.
Day 5: Explore Positano
- Travel time: ~25-60 minutes (depending on travel mode)
- Reserve your stay: Hotel Savoia
- Morning: Spend the day exploring Positano. Visit Spiaggia Grande beach, wander through the town’s charming streets, and visit Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta.
- Afternoon: Take a boat tour or relax on the beach.
- Evening: Have dinner with a view at one of Positano’s renowned cliffside restaurants.
Morning: Breakfast and Transfer to Positano
On Day 5, you’ll wake up to the stunning views of the Amalfi Coast in Positano.
After a leisurely breakfast, spend your morning wandering through the narrow, pastel-colored streets of Positano, lined with boutique shops and cafes.
If you stay in Amalfi and want to get to Positano, you have a couple convenient options:
Ferry (Most Scenic): The ferry ride from Amalfi to Positano is a beautiful and relaxing way to travel along the coast, giving you stunning views of the cliffs, colorful villages, and the sea.
- Duration: About 25-30 minutes.
- Cost: Typically between €8-€15, depending on the season.
- Schedule: Ferries run frequently, especially in the summer, though schedules may be reduced in the off-season. Check the local ferry schedules online or at the port.
Taxi or Private Transfer (Most Convenient): If you prefer comfort and flexibility, you can hire a taxi or book a private transfer to take you directly from Amalfi to Positano. This option is more expensive but provides door-to-door service.
- Duration: About 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Cost: Typically around €50-€80 for a one-way transfer.
Late Morning: Positano Beach Day
You simply must have a beach day on Positano’s famous shores, adorned with colorful umbrellas and lounges with sapphire waves washing up on the powdery white sand.
Make your way down to the iconic Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach, where you can relax on the pebbled shore or take a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters.
And if you want an authentic Amalfi Coast restaurant with a terrace overlooking the ocean, go to La Sponda for brunch.
Afternoon: Boat Tour
In the afternoon, consider taking a boat tour along the coast, where you’ll have the chance to see the stunning cliffs and hidden coves from the water.
The Amalfi Coast is best seen from the water, and this tour gives you the chance to explore the coastline’s dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and picturesque seaside villages from a unique perspective.
You’ll have the opportunity to swim and snorkel in some of the most beautiful spots, like Fiordo di Furore and Praiano, which are known for their clear waters and stunning underwater life.
I know a beach day and boat tour can leave you feeling salty and the desperate need to clean up afterwards.
Luckily, if you’re staying in Amalfi, Spiaggia Grande and Fornillo Beach (the main beaches in Positano) have public showers and changing rooms that you can use to rinse off and change after swimming.
For those who prefer to stay on land, a visit to the beautiful Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a must, with its famous dome and rich history.
Evening: Sunset in Positano
As evening falls, enjoy a sunset aperitivo at one of Positano’s cliffside restaurants, followed by a delicious dinner overlooking the sea.
Li Galli has *stunning* views and decor — and the food is on par too.
Al Palazzo is another renowned restaurant with a pretty botanical garden and an enticing selection of cocktails.
🚤 Reserve your seat on this amazing coastal boat tour! The tour gives you about two hours to explore another Amalfi Coast town of your choosing, so you can get a feel for a different village without having to plan separate transportation. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to swim and snorkel!
Day 6: Visit Amalfi and Ravello
- Travel time: ~20-30 minutes
- Reserve your stay: Hotel Savoia
- Morning: Head to Amalfi, visit the Amalfi Cathedral, and explore the town center.
- Afternoon: Take a bus or taxi up to Ravello, known for its stunning views of the coast. Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone for some of the best vistas.
- Evening: Return to Amalfi or Positano for dinner.
Morning: Explore Amalfi
After watching the sunrise from your hotel room, it’s time to get ready for a taste of the Amalfi.
Ristorante Dei Cappuccini is precisely what you need for that and more, as it offers breathtaking oceanscapes while you eat. It’s a beautiful restaurant in Amalfi and an amazing way to start the day!
Today, you’ll start by exploring the beautiful town of Amalfi, where you’ll visit the magnificent Amalfi Cathedral, known for its stunning Arab-Norman architecture and intricate mosaics.
After wandering through the historic town center, enjoy a relaxing morning by the harbor or at a café in the piazza.
Afternoon: Explore Ravello
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive or bus up to the hilltop town of Ravello, famous for its breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast.
You’ll visit the stunning gardens of Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, both offering unparalleled vistas of the coastline and sea.
Evening: Dinner in Amalfi
After soaking in the beauty of Ravello, head back to Amalfi for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying the peaceful charm of the coast in the evening.
Lido Azzurro is a local fave for seafood with a terrace overlooking Amalfi’s port.
Day 7: Day Trip to Capri or Relax in Positano
- Travel time: ~45 minutes to 1 hour (one way)
- Reserve your stay: Hotel Savoia
- Morning: Take a boat from Positano to the island of Capri (optional). Explore Marina Grande, take the funicular up to Capri Town, and visit the famous Blue Grotto.
- Afternoon: Enjoy lunch in Capri or head back to Positano to relax and explore more of the town.
- Evening: Wrap up your trip with a relaxing evening in Positano.
Morning: Head to Capri
Today, you’ll have the chance to take a day trip to the glamorous island of Capri, one of the jewels of the Amalfi Coast.
After a scenic ferry ride from Positano or Amalfi, you’ll arrive at Marina Grande, Capri’s main port.
Start your adventure by taking the funicular up to Capri Town, where you can explore the bustling piazzetta, chic boutiques, and charming cafés.
Spend your morning wandering the picturesque streets, or head to Anacapri to visit the stunning Villa San Michele and take the chairlift up to Monte Solaro for panoramic views of the island.
Afternoon to Evening: Boat Tour and Explore
In the afternoon, embark on a boat tour around Capri, visiting the famous Blue Grotto or exploring hidden coves and grottoes along the coast.
After a full day of exploring the island’s natural beauty and elegance, return to the Amalfi Coast for one last relaxing evening, soaking in the magical atmosphere of the coastline.
Day 8: Departure
- Travel time: ~1.5-2.5 hours depending on the mode of travel
- Morning: Depart from Naples International Airport or return to Pisa if that’s your departure airport.
Morning: Depart for Naples
It’s time to wrap up your incredible journey along the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre.
After a leisurely morning, cap your trip off with a final cappuccino overlooking the sea. Afterwards, you’ll pack up and begin your journey home.
If you’re flying out from Naples, take a scenic drive or ferry back to the city.
Before heading to the airport, you might have time for a final stroll through the streets of Naples or a delicious meal featuring the region’s famous pizza.
