Private Amalfi Coast Tour from Sorrento: Positano, Amalfi & Ravello

Summary

Explore Positano, Amalfi Cathedral & Ravello Gardens in One Day

You’ll see three iconic towns—Positano’s steep lanes, Amalfi’s ancient cathedral, and Ravello’s peaceful gardens—all in one relaxed day with a local driver who knows every shortcut and viewpoint along this famous coast.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Sorrento had that salty tang you only get near the sea. Our driver—Antonio, quick with a story—pulled up right on time in a shiny Mercedes van. I tossed my bag in the back and we set off, winding out of town as the sun started to warm up the lemon groves. The road hugged the cliffs so tight I could almost touch the rock outside my window. Every turn opened up another view: fishing boats bobbing below, pastel houses stacked like sugar cubes above.

Positano was our first stop. It’s steeper than it looks in photos—my calves felt it after just a few minutes! We ducked into a tiny shop selling handmade sandals (the owner’s dog was napping under the counter), then wandered down to the pebbly beach. The smell of espresso drifted from a café called La Zagara, and I grabbed a quick cornetto before heading back uphill. Antonio pointed out where locals hang their laundry—right over the street, flapping in the breeze.

Next was Amalfi itself. The square buzzed with people and pigeons; someone played accordion near the steps of Saint Andrew’s Cathedral. Inside, it was cool and quiet—the mosaics glimmered even in low light. I learned from our guide that parts of this church go back to the 9th century. For lunch, we tried lemon pasta at a trattoria tucked behind the main piazza (can’t remember its name but they squeeze fresh lemons right at your table).

The drive up to Ravello twisted through olive groves and sleepy villages. Up there, everything felt calmer—just birdsong and distant church bells. Villa Cimbrone’s gardens were full of roses and wisteria; I leaned over the terrace wall and saw nothing but blue sea all the way to Capri. We lingered until late afternoon before heading back toward Sorrento, tired but happy.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Amalfi Coast Highlights

• Pickup in Sorrento
• Scenic drive along Amalfi Coast
• Explore Positano village
• Visit Amalfi town
• Tour Amalfi Cathedral
• Ascend to Ravello
• Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone gardens
• Drive back to Sorrento

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young kids?

Yes! There are infant seats available if you need them, and you can bring strollers or prams along without any trouble.

Can I join if I use a wheelchair?

No problem—the van is accessible for wheelchairs and most stops are manageable for all fitness levels.

How much free time do we get in each town?

You’ll have enough time to stroll around Positano, visit Amalfi Cathedral at your own pace, and explore Ravello’s gardens without rushing.

Where does pickup happen?

Your driver will meet you wherever works best—in front of your hotel, at the port or train station in Sorrento.

What’s included

Your private tour includes pickup and drop-off anywhere in Sorrento (hotel or port), all fuel costs, tolls, parking fees, plus transportation by air-conditioned Mercedes van with an English-speaking driver who knows the area inside out.