The Amalfi Coast road runs along the southern cliffs of the Sorrento Peninsula from Positano east to Salerno. From Naples, reaching it requires driving to Sorrento first (60–90 minutes) and then along the coast road. The total transit to Positano is typically 90–150 minutes one way.
The classic full-day itinerary visits two or three towns: Ravello, Amalfi and Positano is the most common combination. Ravello provides elevation and garden culture. Amalfi provides the medieval cathedral and piazza. Positano provides the iconic cliff-face view. Three towns in one day is ambitious — confirm your operator's timing at each stop.
A Sorrento plus one coastal town combination — typically Positano or Amalfi — is a more relaxed alternative. Less road time, more time at each stop, and a better return margin. For most cruise passengers on a single-day call, this may be the more satisfying choice.
Highlights
- Ravello: clifftop gardens and Villa Cimbrone views
- Amalfi: medieval cathedral and the historic heart of the coast
- Positano: the iconic cliff-face village — the defining Amalfi image
- Sorrento: clifftop elegance and Bay of Naples panorama
Tips
- Build generous return margins — afternoon Amalfi road traffic is the biggest risk factor
- Confirm how much time you have in each town, not just transit time
- Morning arrivals at coastal towns are best — before the day heats and the crowds build
- Check current transport conditions before travelling