Amalfi Coast Day Trip from Naples: Positano, Amalfi & Sorrento

Summary

Positano streets, Sorrento views and Amalfi’s old piazza in one easy day

You’ll ride along the Amalfi Coast from Naples with a small group and local guide, stopping in Sorrento for pastries and views of Vesuvius, exploring Positano’s winding streets and sea air, then soaking up Amalfi’s old-world charm before heading back with a taste of local limoncello. It’s relaxed but full of color — you might even laugh more than you expect.

What’s the experience like?

It started with our driver Antonio waving at us from across the street near our hotel in Naples — he actually remembered my name (I’m always surprised when that happens). The van was cool inside, which felt good after the city heat. I sat next to a couple from Manchester who’d never tried limoncello before; we all laughed about how early it felt for a “taste test.” There’s something about leaving Naples behind and watching the sea appear through the window — it’s hard to explain, but you just feel lighter.

First stop was Sorrento. Antonio pointed out a bakery where he gets his morning sfogliatella — flaky pastry with orange zest that you can smell halfway down the street. We wandered past lemon stalls and tiny shops selling those painted ceramics (I broke one once, years ago). The view of Mount Vesuvius was hazy but still there, looming like some quiet giant. I tried to say “grazie” with the right accent and got a smile from an old lady selling limoncello samples. She poured me a tiny cup — cold, sharp, sweet all at once.

Positano came next, all stacked houses and pink bougainvillea spilling over balconies. The streets are so narrow you have to dodge delivery guys on scooters. I bought a little bottle of perfume made with local herbs — the scent stuck to my wrist for hours after. We only had about an hour here but honestly, that’s enough to get lost and find your way back again (unless you’re me and end up on the wrong beach for ten minutes). Someone played guitar by the steps near the water and I just sat there listening, not really thinking about anything.

Amalfi felt older somehow — maybe it’s the cathedral bells or just how people move slower there. Our guide Francesca told us about her grandfather working on fishing boats; she pointed out paper shops where they still make everything by hand. I got coffee at a little bar facing the sea and watched kids chasing pigeons in front of Saint Andrew’s Cathedral. On the drive back to Naples we did this silly limoncello lottery (I didn’t win), but everyone cheered anyway. Sunburned noses, sticky fingers from lemon candy — I still think about that view above Positano as we curved along those cliff roads home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Positano, Amalfi, and Sorrento

• Travel from Naples by mini bus
• Stroll colorful streets of Positano
• Explore Amalfi historic center
• Visit Cathedral of Saint Andrew
• Relax with coffee by the sea
• Discover charming Sorrento town
• Taste local limoncello in Sorrento
• Enjoy views of Mount Vesuvius
• Return to Naples
• Participate in limoncello lottery

Top questions

How long is the Amalfi Coast day trip from Naples?

The tour lasts a full day with several hours split between Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi before returning to Naples.

Is hotel pickup included in this Amalfi Coast tour?

Yes, pickup near your hotel in Naples is included for convenience.

How much free time do you get in each town?

You’ll have about 1 hour in Positano and 1.5 hours in Amalfi; Sorrento offers time for strolling and tasting as well.

Are food or drinks provided during the tour?

No meals are included but you’ll have chances to buy local snacks or try limoncello samples along the way.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes—infant seats are available and strollers/prams can be used during stops.

What kind of vehicle is used for transport?

A comfortable air-conditioned minibus is used for small groups.

Do guides speak English?

Your driver and escort both speak English throughout the trip.

Does this tour include entry fees or tickets?

No special entry tickets are needed; most activities are self-guided within each town.

Is there any special activity on the return journey?

A fun limoncello lottery is held on board—one guest wins a bottle as a souvenir!

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation by air-conditioned minibus with pickup near your hotel in Naples, guidance from an English-speaking driver-escort throughout Positano, Amalfi & Sorrento stops, use of beach towels if needed, parking fees covered at each village, plus a playful limoncello lottery on your way back home.