The Amalfi Coast & Sorrento Peninsula
- Fantastic walks exploring the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Positano and Sorrento
- Incredible views over the turquoise sea, villages, lighthouses and Mt. Vesuvius
- Guilt-free indulging in foodie delights, knowing you’ll walk it off tomorrow!
- Breath-taking coastal views from the world-famous ‘Footpath of the Gods’
- The glamour of Positano and Capri, contrasting with authentic Praiano
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Amalfi and overnightThe small town of Amalfi is easily reached from Naples by taking a direct train to Sorrento and continuing on to Amalfi by bus or ferry. The town has a small beach, lively piazzas with bars and restaurants, and a cluster of white buildings overlooking the sea. It is the ancient capital of the Amalfi Maritime Republic and is surrounded by high mountains.
Take time to explore its cobbled streets, walk along the colourful marina, and make sure to grab a limoncello spritz next to its impressive Byzantine-influenced cathedral to celebrate arriving on the Amalfi Coast.
Albergo Lidomare is a family-run small hotel offering a warm welcome and wonderful views of the Mediterranean. The property is situated right next to Piazzo Duomo and is only a short walk from the beach and the town centre. The hotel is set in a historic building that dates back to the 1300s. All rooms are tastefully decorated reflecting their heritage.
In a restored 12th-century residence this homely hotel is a short walk from Amalfi Cathedral, the Amalfi coast and the ferry. There are sun lounger and a hot tub on the rooftop terrace providing a great view over Amalfi and the cliffs towering above the town. They have a breakfast room where an extensive continental buffet is served.
Walk out of Amalfi following a scenic path passing waterfalls, old buildings and lemon groves. Upon reaching the medieval Tower of Zirro you are rewarded with the first of many coastal views. Enter the Valley of the Ancient Mills and explore the ruins of the many paper factories which date back to the 11th century.
The hamlet of Ravello is one of this trip's highlights and is often said to have a 'metamorphic' effect on people. Discover Villa Cimbrone and its picturesque gardens just south of Ravello's Duomo (cathedral) and soak in its style and glamour.
If you wish to do so, you can walk back to Amalfi via Atrani descending one continuous staircase down to the clear sea or alternatively, catch a local bus (15-20 minutes, payable locally).
Amalfi to Ravello (Part 1): 7km/4mi, Ascent/Descent: 467m/115m
Ravello to Amalfi (Part 2): 3km/2mi, Ascent/Descent: 61m/411m
Combined: 10km/6mi, Ascent/Descent: 467m/411m
Albergo Lidomare is a family-run small hotel offering a warm welcome and wonderful views of the Mediterranean. The property is situated right next to Piazzo Duomo and is only a short walk from the beach and the town centre. The hotel is set in a historic building that dates back to the 1300s. All rooms are tastefully decorated reflecting their heritage.
In a restored 12th-century residence this homely hotel is a short walk from Amalfi Cathedral, the Amalfi coast and the ferry. There are sun lounger and a hot tub on the rooftop terrace providing a great view over Amalfi and the cliffs towering above the town. They have a breakfast room where an extensive continental buffet is served.
Enjoy an energising breakfast and some Italian coffee before heading to Bomerano by local bus (20 minutes, payable locally).
From here, you have a choice of walks; the longer option includes a climb up Mount Tre Calli and then back to Bomerano to continue along the first section of the famous Path of the Gods. This is a more challenging walk on uneven terrain with endless rewards. Glittering sea views from the ancient path will have you continually reaching for your camera.
The shorter option is walking the first section of the Path of the Gods from Bomerano to your next destination Praiano and skipping the climb up Mount Tre Calli. The path is a long downhill stretch with constant awe-inspiring views of Positano and Capri.
Mount Tre Calli: 9km/5.5mi. Ascent/Descent: 460m/461m
Path of the Gods to Praiano: 4km/2.5mi. Ascent/Descent: 194m/645m
Combined: 12km/8mi. Ascent/Descent: 460m/645m
La Perla is a small, family-run hotel with a spectacular location overlooking the coast and within walking distance of the village. All rooms offer comfortable beds, air conditioning and stylish tiled flooring. There is a rooftop terrace and restaurant offering local wines and regional food specialities.
Today the choice is yours; take a well-earned rest day visiting neighbouring Positano, browsing its chic boutiques and soaking up the Southern Italian charm. There is certainly no shortage of fine restaurants and flower-filled courtyards to enjoy a refreshing drink, a bite to eat or a lemon-flavoured gelato. Reach Positano by local bus (15min, payable locally) or pre-arrange a private transfer (please let us know in advance if this is of interest, so we can organise this for you).
Another option is to continue along the awe-inspiring Path of the Gods to Positano, a more challenging section. Climb steeply out of Praiano to reach the convent of San Domenico and catch your breath whilst enjoying the stunning panorama. The path then twists and turns further up the mountain where you can enjoy more views of terraced lemon groves and tiny villages that cling to steep cliffs. Follow the vertiginous trail to the village of Nocelle, from where you will continue to the charming town of Positano. From here take a public bus back to Praiano.
Ascent/Descent: 1113m/1157m
La Perla is a small, family-run hotel with a spectacular location overlooking the coast and within walking distance of the village. All rooms offer comfortable beds, air conditioning and stylish tiled flooring. There is a rooftop terrace and restaurant offering local wines and regional food specialities.
An unforgettable day awaits as you take a ferry to the seriously beautiful Capri. This island just off the Amalfi Coast has preserved its unspoilt charm and has grand villas and banks of colourful bougainvillae. When you arrive with the ferry take the funicular from Marina Grande to the Piazza Umberto I. This way you don't have to climb up the stairs.
Enjoy an easy walk which will cover Capri's highlights; the impressive Roman ruins of Villa Jovis, Emperor Tiberius’s villa, a panoramic coastal path to the Arco Naturale, and the Faraglioni. These three giant rocks rise up out of the sea and are one of the island's most famous points of interest.
Later you can visit the Convent of San Giacomo and the Gardens of Emperor Augustus or relax in the square, before returning to Sorrento.
Ascent/Descent: 487m/483m
Located in the heart of Sorrento and was a historic residence which has recently been restored and converted into a characterful bed and breakfast. There is tranquil garden where you can relax after a days walking. Some rooms have balconies.
After breakfast, take the local bus from the main square to the village of Termini, then set off along the ancient road ‘Via Minerva’, reaching a watchtower and lighthouse at Punta Campanella. This spot marks the divide between the Amalfi Coast and the Bay of Naples, and is the westernmost point of the peninsula.
Enjoy outstanding views over the eastern cliffs of Capri as you follow the trail to the heights of Monte San Costanzo, which rewards you with 360 degree views to Capri, Mt Vesuvius, the Bay of Jeranto, Marina del Catone and the Amalfi Coast. Upon reaching Termini, catch a bus for the short journey back to Sorrento.
Ascent/Descent: 517m/519m
Located in the heart of Sorrento and was a historic residence which has recently been restored and converted into a characterful bed and breakfast. There is tranquil garden where you can relax after a days walking. Some rooms have balconies.
A short bus ride brings you to the village of Nerano. Set out through extraordinary terraced landscapes, with some of the best views of the southern side of the Sorrento Peninsula. This wilderness area is now recognised for its historic mining past. Drink in the views to the tiny beach framed by the turquoise sea and beautiful Montalto watchtower.
The fisherman’s village of Marina del Cantone is an ideal spot to break for lunch, with its local fish restaurants, and you can relax on the beach or continue on to Recommone Beach by local bus before arriving back in Sorrento.
Ascent/Descent: 584m/597m
Located in the heart of Sorrento and was a historic residence which has recently been restored and converted into a characterful bed and breakfast. There is tranquil garden where you can relax after a days walking. Some rooms have balconies.
From Sorrento you can return to Naples by bus. Alternatively, it’s possible to arrange a private transfer for an additional charge. Please ask our Sales team about this at the time of booking. If time allows you may like to add an additional night in Sorrento to explore the town and soak on the vibrant atmosphere and sample the world-famous lemons that grow here.
This trip has a carbon score of 8kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 8kg is equivalent to 12 pints of local beer at the bar. Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information on how we've carbon counted our trips.
Other Information
Is it for me?Explore bella Italia — this trip, which is rated moderate, shows off the best of the stunning Amalfi coast and Sorrento Peninsula. Travelling on foot means you can take things at your own pace, escaping the crowds to discover the area’s true hidden gems. Also visit the chic Isle of Capri and stylish Positano. Some of the walks are more challenging due to the elevation gains and losses and the high number of stone staircases involved, so a head for heights and walking poles to support your knees are needed. You spend several nights in Sorrento, which gives you the luxury of being able to choose which walks you do or to simple relax and take a rest day instead, and enjoy the sights and sounds of this characterful town. If you enjoy coastal trails and mountain paths with far-reaching views, fragrant local wine, and fresh seafood, then this is the trip for you!
Classic Routes | If you’re the active, outdoorsy type, who’s interested in taking on the great routes of the world or looking for a challenge, then our Classic Routes are for you. We’re talking the West Highland Way, Tour Du Mont Blanc and the Passau to Vienna Danube Cycle Path, to name but a few!
Multi Centre Walking | With a mix of loop and point-to-point walks stay 2 or 3 nights in one place which offers the chance to slow down and really explore a destination.
Solo Travellers, Families with Teens
The minimum age for this tour is: 12 Years
This holiday is graded moderate with walking days of up to 13km (8 mi) and has some more challenging walks that are optional with significant elevation gains and losses. This trip is suitable for those with a good level of fitness. On some walks, the path can be close to the cliff edges with sheer drops which would not be appropriate for people suffering with vertigo or a fear of heights. It should be noted that some sections include prolonged descents and ascents on stony stairs which can be tough on the knees, so we would strongly recommend taking walking poles and perhaps knee supports if needed. It’s best ahead of time to do some practice walks including stairs and ascents and descents like those you will experience on the trip whilst carrying your day bag. The terrain consists of footpaths, dirt tracks, stepped trails, lots of stone staircases, and some sections that are uneven underfoot. There may be some short sections of road walking, but not on busy roads or traffic routes. You will occasionally be following minor paved roads, mostly to get from the end of your walk to your hotel.
We specifically choose your hotels to ensure that you enjoy every minute of your stay. All offer a warm welcome to walkers, traditional hospitality and delicious local food and drink. The hotels mentioned in the itinerary are subject to availability, and early booking is highly recommended for June-September in particular, as this is a very popular area. We will always try and accommodate you at the locations detailed, but because of limited availability (especially June-September) we may have to accommodate you at an alternative location of the same or better standard (a supplement may be possible). Alternative details will be noted on your accommodation sheet. There are room upgrade options in the hotels used on this trip, please speak to our Sales team at the time of booking if this is something you are interested in.
Single Rooms & Solo Walkers
This holiday is available for solo walkers but we would recommend that you are experienced in walking and navigating alone and there is a solo walker supplement payable. If you require single rooms within your party we would be happy to accommodate you although there is a single room supplement payable.
Meals
Breakfast is included each morning. In Italy, this is generally a light continental breakfast with baked goods. Lunch and dinner are not included but are available from your hotel or nearby restaurants. The food of the Amalfi coast is strongly influenced by local produce. Traditional specialities include seafood and gnocchi alla sorrentina.
The routes are waymarked in some areas, but not in others. However, we provide the Macs Adventure Smartphone App making it simple to follow the route using a smartphone. Rest assured that by downloading the route maps in our app, that this will continue to work even in areas without any mobile or internet reception. For extra reassurance there are also turn-by-turn route notes within the app too for the walks.
On your arrival at the first hotel our local partner will have left an arrival information pack for you which contains a guide to the local buses. This includes information on where to catch the buses, ticket costs and the most up-to-date timetables. Please be aware that although the buses on the Amalfi Coast run frequently, they are also a very popular way to travel and are therefore often busy, especially the closer to summer you travel. If buses are full the driver won't stop or will turn you away and you will have to wait for the next bus. The buses also tend to be busier when it's raining with people cutting the walks short, so it's best to pack suitable raingear for waiting, head to a local cafe to wait out the rain or hop in a taxi instead. Taxis are more expensive in Amalfi than many other areas of Italy. On some routes you may also find it quicker to use a ferry rather than wait for the bus. More information on the ferries can be found here.
- Accommodation in en suite rooms in charming hotels, guesthouses and agriturismos on a twin share basis
- Daily breakfasts
- Door to door baggage transfers as per your itinerary
- Access to maps, GPX tracks and daily route information with the Macs Adventure smartphone navigation app
- All your trip documents including a detailed information pack provided digitally through your online Macs “My Account”
- Telephone support from our offices and local partners in the event of a problem
- Travel insurance (required) and personal equipment
- Travel to Amalfi and from Sorrento
- Boat to/from Capri (approx. €40)
- Capri Cable Car (approx. €4)
- Local bus tickets to walks
- Taxi transfers or public transport should you need to skip a stage
- Lunches, dinners, drinks, and snacks
- Tourist taxes (charged locally at hotels)
- Private transfers to and from Naples
- Additional nights
- Hotel room upgrade supplements (if available)
This Amalfi Coast walking holiday is available from late March to October. You can start your holiday on any date in the season apart from the period between the end of July and late August as this is the hottest time of year when it is unpleasant to walk in this area. Hotel bookings during that time are also almost impossible to secure due to it being the Italian summer holidays, and the walking routes tend to be crowded, so we feel it’s best to avoid travelling during this period.
Spring in the Amalfi Coast is sublime and April, May and June are absolutely lovely. May is when most of the wild flowers tend to be in bloom. Autumn is a perfect time of year as the landscape is made up of a gold and red pallet so September and October are unmissable.
Please note that you should ideally book 6 months in advance if you are intending on travelling in early July, at the end of August or in September. Early booking is recommended in order to secure the best choice of accommodation at this busy time of year. It is best if you have some flexibility regarding your dates and itinerary.
The Amalfi Coast is known to have long, hot summers with July and August being the hottest months. Always make sure to stay hydrated and carry plenty of water whilst out exploring. During summer it is not unlikely for the temperatures to rise above 30 degrees Celsius during the day. It can therefore be very hot for walking and isn’t a time best suited for everyone. You will have to start early to miss the heat of the day and carry a lot of water (additional weight) with you. Although the towns and villages are buzzing at this time of year which is great to see.
The months before and after the summer season will be sunny but a little cooler, which could be preferable. Spring on the Amalfi Coast is sublime with wildflowers in bloom and a more comfortable temperature; April, May and June are absolutely lovely. Autumn is a great time of year as the landscape is made up of gold and red pallet and it cools down during the night, September and October are unmissable.
Due to climate change, there are more frequent bursts of torrential rainfall, which are known to have triggered mud and landslides in the Amalfi Coast area in the past. However, our local partner keeps us informed of any geological risks i.e., a necessity to do an alternate walk due to the trail being closed. This does not happen very often but it’s good to be informed that this could potentially be the case, and we will of course inform you if this arises.
We recommend flying into Naples Airport. From there you can take a Curreri bus from outside the terminal to Sorrento which takes 1hr15. Alternatively, you can take a direct Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento which takes 1hr30. From Sorrento, take a SITA bus to Amalfi which takes around 1hr40. In total the journey from the airport will take 3-3hr30 on average.
Alternatively, we can arrange a private transfer at an additional cost, please let us know if this is of interest.
Another option when travelling between May and October between Naples Airport and Amalfi is to take the Pintour Shuttle Bus service. The journey takes about 1hr50 and timetables can be found on the Pintour website.
Coming from the Fiumicino airport in Rome you need to change trains in Roma Termini and Napoli Centrale to get to Sorrento. Total travelling time to Sorrento is about three hours. The bus from the Sorrento train station to Amalfi takes around 1hr15.
On return you would simply have to take the Curreri bus from Sorrento to Naples.
The simplest way is to take the Curreri shuttle bus from Sorrento to Naples Airport which takes 1hr30. Or you could take the Circumvesuviana train to Naples Train Station which takes 1hr30 and ALIBUS shuttle bus to Naples Airport.
Alternatively, we can arrange a private transfer at an additional cost, please let us know if this is of interest.
Going back from Sorrento to the Fiumicino Airport in Rome you have to change trains in Napoli Afragola and Rome Termini. Total travelling time is about 4 hours.
Your bags will be transferred from your accommodation as per your itinerary and moved onto your next overnight accommodation. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 20kg per person.
This walking holiday is graded moderate and involves 2.5 - 6.5 hours of walking each day so you should enjoy an active lifestyle to get the most from this holiday.
Spring in the Amalfi Coast is sublime and April, May and June are absolutely lovely. Autumn is a perfect time of year as the landscape is made up of a gold and red pallet so September and October are unmissable. July and August can be very hot so you will have to start early to miss the heat of the day, although the towns and villages are buzzing which is great.
We suggest you book as soon as your plans are finalised as this area is extremely popular. We will always try and accommodate your plans so just ask.
Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example, proper rain gear (jacket and pants), sun hat, sunscreen. Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes for the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.
Naples is the best airport to fly into and then you can catch the bus or arrange private taxi transfers to Amalfi or from Sorrento.
Your bags will be collected from your accommodation on days 3 and 5 and moved onto your next overnight accommodation. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 20kg per person.
You can use public transport or local taxis to continue to your next overnight stop.
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- Charming town of Ravello and Isle of Capri
- Breathtaking views over the Mediterranean
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