Driving the Amalfi Coast: Must-See Itineraries from Positano to Amalfi

The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most iconic destinations, famed for its breathtaking cliffs, charming villages, and winding coastal roads. For those who want to experience the coast at their own pace, a road trip along the Amalfi Coast offers the perfect solution. Driving from Positano to Amalfi allows you to soak in the views, stop in picturesque towns, and discover hidden gems that make this stretch of coastline so beloved. However, while the beauty of the coast is undeniable, navigating its narrow, winding roads can present unique challenges, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. Renting a car, handling traffic, and finding parking can add stress to what should be a relaxing escape.

To help you make the most of your journey, this guide covers the essential stops and insider tips for a memorable drive from Positano to Amalfi. From Positano’s colorful cliffs to Amalfi’s historic heart, each stop along the way adds its own unique charm, creating a travel experience unlike any other.

Positano: The Perfect Starting Point

Positano is often the first stop on any Amalfi Coast driving itinerary and for good reason. This cliffside village is renowned for its colorful houses, boutique shops, and breathtaking sea views. Driving into Positano offers a jaw-dropping introduction to the Amalfi Coast, with views of the steep cliffs, vibrant buildings, and blue waters below.

In Positano, the main attraction is Spiaggia Grande, the town’s largest beach, where visitors can relax on the sand, swim in the clear water, or simply take in the scenery. Positano is also home to the famous Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) hiking trail, which begins nearby and offers stunning views of the coastline. This trail, while not part of the driving route, is worth the detour for those interested in exploring the coast on foot.

Positano is best explored on foot, as the roads are narrow and winding. However, travelers arriving by car should plan ahead for parking, as spaces are limited and fill up quickly. Many visitors park just outside the main center and walk down to explore the town. For those looking to stay longer, Positano offers a variety of charming hotels, restaurants, and local shops where you can pick up unique souvenirs to remember your visit.

Praiano: A Tranquil Coastal Retreat

Leaving Positano, the road takes you next to Praiano, a quieter and more relaxed coastal village. Often overlooked by tourists, Praiano is a gem along the Amalfi Coast and offers a more tranquil experience than its busier neighbors. Driving into Praiano is a scenic experience, with cliffside views that are every bit as stunning as those of Positano, but with fewer crowds.

One of Praiano’s highlights is Marina di Praia, a small beach nestled between cliffs. This beach is ideal for those looking to escape the busier beaches of Positano and enjoy a quieter, more intimate setting. Praiano is also home to Chiesa di San Gennaro, a beautiful church known for its colorful tiled dome and panoramic views of the coast. The piazza in front of the church is a great spot for photos and offers a peaceful place to take in the coastal scenery.

Praiano offers a range of dining options and accommodations, many of which boast incredible sea views. Because it’s less crowded than Positano or Amalfi, parking is generally easier to find, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the coast by car.

Furore: Discovering the Hidden Fjord

As you continue along the Amalfi Coast, you’ll come across one of the coast’s most unique natural wonders: the Fjord of Furore (Fiordo di Furore). This hidden gem is a small inlet formed by high cliffs on either side, creating a fjord-like effect that stands out from the rest of the coastline. The Fiordo di Furore is a striking contrast to the typical Amalfi scenery, offering a secluded beach area and dramatic rock formations.

Driving over the small bridge that crosses the fjord, you’ll find an ideal viewpoint for photos and sightseeing. For those who want to explore further, a path leads down to the beach area, where you can enjoy the peaceful waters and take in the beauty of this natural formation up close. However, parking is limited, so it’s best to plan for a brief stop or arrive early in the day.

Furore is a place of raw natural beauty that many travelers overlook, making it a wonderful addition to your Amalfi Coast road trip itinerary. It offers a unique experience that contrasts with the busier, more tourist-centered spots along the coast, allowing you to appreciate the quieter, more rugged side of the Amalfi Coast.

Conca dei Marini: A Hidden Oasis

Further along the Amalfi Coast, you’ll come to Conca dei Marini, a quaint fishing village that’s often praised for its serene atmosphere and natural beauty. This small town is home to one of the coast’s most famous attractions: the Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo). This sea cave, named for the greenish hue created by sunlight filtering through the water, is an unforgettable experience for visitors. A short boat ride will take you into the cave, where you can marvel at the vibrant colors and unique underwater formations.

Conca dei Marini also offers a peaceful setting with a few family-owned restaurants and small beaches, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal or a quiet swim. Unlike the more tourist-heavy towns of Positano and Amalfi, Conca dei Marini retains an authentic, unspoiled charm that appeals to those looking for a more intimate experience of the coast.

Parking here can be challenging, especially during peak season, so it’s advisable to plan your stop early in the day or later in the afternoon. Conca dei Marini’s quiet beauty and hidden gems make it an essential stop on any Amalfi Coast driving itinerary.

Amalfi: The Historic Heart of the Coast

Finally, no Amalfi Coast road trip would be complete without a visit to Amalfi, the town that gives the coast its name. Known for its historic architecture and vibrant culture, Amalfi is a bustling town that offers something for every traveler. The highlight of Amalfi is the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi), an impressive structure with a blend of architectural styles that reflect the town’s rich history. The cathedral’s striking facade and stunning interior make it one of the most photographed landmarks on the coast.

Amalfi is also home to the Museum of Handmade Paper (Museo della Carta), where visitors can learn about the region’s centuries-old paper-making tradition. This unique museum provides insight into an important aspect of Amalfi’s cultural heritage and offers a hands-on experience for those interested in local crafts.

No visit to Amalfi would be complete without sampling the local limoncello, made from the area’s famous lemons. Many shops offer tastings, allowing you to try this refreshing lemon liqueur and take a bottle home as a souvenir. Amalfi’s vibrant streets, filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants, make it a lively and memorable end to your Amalfi Coast road trip.

Parking in Amalfi can be challenging, especially during peak tourist season, but there are several paid parking options within walking distance of the main attractions. Plan for extra time in Amalfi to fully enjoy its sights and atmosphere, as this town deserves a leisurely exploration.

Conclusion

A road trip along the Amalfi Coast from Positano to Amalfi is an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking views, charming towns, and unique experiences. Each stop along the way—whether it’s the vibrant cliffside village of Positano, the serene beauty of Praiano, the hidden wonders of Furore’s fjord, the tranquil oasis of Conca dei Marini, or the historic heart of Amalfi—adds a new layer of magic to the adventure.

Driving the Amalfi Coast requires preparation and patience, but the rewards are more than worth it. With a little planning, you can experience the coast’s most stunning viewpoints, enjoy authentic local cuisine, and explore some of Italy’s most iconic landmarks. Whether you’re drawn to the coastal scenery, interested in historic sites, or simply want to experience the charm of each town, a road trip from Positano to Amalfi allows you to see the best of the Amalfi Coast on your terms.

If navigating the challenging roads seems daunting, consider using a private driver service like Sorrento Limo to handle the logistics, allowing you to relax and focus entirely on enjoying this incredible journey.