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

Summary

Positano’s narrow streets, Amalfi’s grand steps, Ravello’s quiet gardens—one coast, three moods

You’ll wind along cliff roads with a small group from Naples to Positano’s colorful streets, sample sweet pastries in Amalfi after climbing cathedral steps, then find calm in Ravello’s gardens overlooking the sea. With hotel pickup and a local guide who shares real stories—not just facts—you’ll feel both part of the crowd and quietly apart from it all.

What’s the experience like?

We were halfway down one of those winding roads above Positano when our guide, Marco, just started laughing at the way I tried to pronounce “Sirenuse.” He said it so easily—see-reh-NOO-zeh—and then pointed out these tiny islands off the coast. The air smelled like lemons and salt, and honestly, I couldn’t tell if my shoes were sticky from gelato or just the humidity. We’d left Naples early (I slept through half the drive), but that first glimpse of pastel houses stacked up the cliffs woke me right up. I kept craning my neck out the window like a kid.

Walking through Positano felt like being inside someone’s watercolor sketchbook—shades of pink and yellow everywhere. We ducked into the Church of Santa Maria Assunta (Marco insisted we see the dome), and there was this hush inside, cool stone underfoot, sunlight flickering through stained glass. Outside again, it was all noise: scooters buzzing past, someone arguing cheerfully about espresso strength. The main keyword here is definitely “Amalfi Coast tour”—everyone around us seemed to be on some kind of day trip from Naples too. But it never felt crowded in a bad way; more like everyone was sharing a secret.

The boat ride to Amalfi was short but I still got splashed—should’ve sat further back. In Amalfi itself, those cathedral steps are steeper than they look in photos. An old lady selling pastries waved us over; I tried something called Santa Rosa that tasted like custard clouds (not exaggerating). Marco told stories about ancient sailors and pointed out Byzantine details on the façade—he clearly loves this place. I didn’t expect to care about church architecture but now I keep thinking about those mosaics.

Ravello came last—quieter somehow, almost sleepy compared to Positano’s buzz. We wandered narrow lanes lined with pottery shops; at Villa Rufolo’s terrace you could see forever (or at least as far as Capri). A little breeze picked up and for a second everyone just stood there without saying much. It wasn’t dramatic or anything—just peaceful in a way that stuck with me after we drove back to Naples. Still can’t say Sirenuse right though.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Amalfi Coast highlights

• Travel through Sorrentine Peninsula
• Pass by Sirenusas islands
• Visit Positano village
• See Church of Santa Maria Assunta
• Relax on Positano beach
• Boat ride from Positano to Amalfi
• Explore Amalfi town and cathedral
• Free time in Amalfi
• Visit Ravello town center
• Walk narrow streets and shops
• Visit Villa Rufolo

Top questions

How long does the Amalfi Coast tour from Naples take?

The tour lasts about 8 hours including travel time between Naples, Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you choose the private option when booking.

Does this tour include a boat ride?

From April to October (weather permitting), there’s a 25-minute boat transfer from Positano to Amalfi included.

Will we have free time in each town?

You’ll get free time to explore on your own in Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello during the tour.

Are entry fees for attractions included?

No, entry fees for places like Villa Rufolo or Amalfi Cathedral are not included but your guide can help you purchase tickets if you want to go inside.

Is lunch provided on this tour?

No lunch is provided but you’ll have time to buy food or try local pastries in each town.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but note that some areas have steep streets or stairs; infants must sit on an adult’s lap unless using a pram or stroller.

What languages does the guide speak?

The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide depending on group makeup.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation from Naples in an air-conditioned vehicle with an official local guide providing live commentary (for groups over seven). If you book privately, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of it too. From April to October (weather permitting), there’s also a scenic boat transfer between Positano and Amalfi. You’ll get free time in each town plus tips from your guide on what not to miss before heading back in the evening.