Amalfi Coast: Private Day Trip from Sorrento or Naples

Summary

Positano’s pastel cliffs, Amalfi’s cathedral, Ravello gardens all in one relaxed private journey

You’ll travel along the Amalfi Coast with a local driver who knows every curve and story behind Positano’s beaches and Amalfi’s cathedral steps. Expect spontaneous stops for photos or espresso, time to wander Ravello’s gardens (with their famous views), and space to shape your own pace—plus hotel pickup and drop-off so you can just sink into it all.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the blue — not just the sea, but the sky, the painted boats in Positano, even the faded tiles under my feet when we stopped for coffee. Our driver, Salvatore, met us right at our Sorrento hotel (he waved from across the street — easy to spot with that grin). The van was cool inside, which felt good after that sticky morning air. He started pointing out things before we’d even left town: lemon groves flickering past the window, a tiny nativity carved into rock along the road. It’s funny what sticks with you — I can still smell those lemons every time I think about that drive.

We wound along the Amalfi Coast road so slowly it almost felt like floating. Salvatore told stories as we drove — about fishermen in little villages tucked into cliffs, about how his grandmother used to make limoncello (he swears hers is better than anything you’ll buy). At Spiaggia Grande in Positano, we wandered down through narrow lanes until suddenly everything opened up: umbrellas on the sand, kids running barefoot, houses stacked like a pastel cake. I tried to take a photo but honestly it never looks quite like it feels standing there. The keyword “private Amalfi Coast tour” doesn’t really capture that mix of salt air and sun on your skin.

After that came Amalfi itself — busier than I expected but somehow still old-world. The cathedral steps were crowded with people eating gelato (I caved and got pistachio; no regrets). Inside was quiet and cool; gold mosaics glinting above our heads. We skipped the Emerald Grotto this time because we wanted longer in Ravello (Salvatore said he could tweak timings however we liked), so we climbed up instead to Villa Rufolo. That walk took longer than ten minutes for me — maybe I stopped too many times to look back at the sea? The gardens were full of jasmine and something else sweet I couldn’t place. There was a wedding setting up; everyone seemed happy just to be there.

I keep thinking about how easy it all felt — no rushing for buses or figuring out tickets (except for entry fees at some spots). Just us and Salvatore’s stories and whatever music he played quietly when nobody was talking. On the way back toward Naples, he pointed out a fishing village built right into a steep fjord; it looked like something from another century. By then I was tired but didn’t want it to end yet…you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Amalfi Coast tour highlights

• Start tour from Naples or Sorrento
• Pass by Nativity rock representation
• Optional stop at Emerald Grotto by boat
• Visit Amalfi Cathedral and cloister
• Walk to private villa with panoramic gardens
• Explore Spiaggia Grande beach in Positano
• Admire view from bridge over fishing village

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this private Amalfi Coast tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from Sorrento or Naples.

How long does the private day trip from Sorrento or Naples take?

The duration is approximate and depends on traffic and timing preferences.

Can we customize stops or timing during our Amalfi Coast day trip?

Yes, your driver can adjust stops and timing based on your wishes during the tour.

Are entrance fees included for attractions like Villa Rufolo or Amalfi Cathedral?

No, entrance fees are not included; you pay them directly at each site if you choose to enter.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

Are infant seats available during this private tour?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available upon request.

Does this tour include lunch or food stops?

No set lunch is included but you’ll have free time in towns to eat where you like.

Can cruise ship passengers book this private Amalfi Coast day trip?

Yes—just provide your ship details when booking so timing can be arranged accordingly.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Sorrento or Naples, bottled water for the ride, a private English-speaking driver-guide who shares stories along the way, transport by air-conditioned Mercedes minivan—and plenty of flexibility to pause wherever catches your eye before heading back in comfort at sunset.