Morning: the Duomo before the crowds
Arrive early. Between eight and ten o'clock the centre is quieter and the light on the Duomo's façade is soft. Climb the steps, then visit the Cloister of Paradise (Chiostro del Paradiso) and the crypt of Sant'Andrea.
Before moving on, treat yourself to a coffee in Piazza Duomo and try a lemon dessert: the Coast's pastry tradition is tied to the Sfusato Amalfitano lemon.
Late morning: the Valley of the Mills and the Paper Museum
Heading up the main street, you enter the Valle dei Mulini (Valley of the Mills), where the stream's water once powered the paper mills. The Museo della Carta (Paper Museum) explains the production of handmade paper in a simple, concrete way.
If you have fit legs and more time, trails to the Valle delle Ferriere start from here; in a single day, however, we recommend sticking to the lower part.
Lunch: seafood and lemons
In the alleys and along the harbour you will find trattorias and restaurants for every budget. In high season it is wise to book, especially for tables with a view.
Afternoon: the sea, from the beach or from a boat
The afternoon is the ideal time for the sea. You can choose Marina Grande beach, close to the centre, or see the coast from the water.
A small-group boat tour lets you discover coves and caves reachable only from the sea, without the hassle of organising everything yourself. With a private boat, you decide the stops and timing.
Sunset: aperitivo in Atrani
On your way back, walk a few minutes to Atrani. The little square overlooking the sea is the perfect place to end the day with an aperitivo, away from the main flow of visitors.
Itinerary variations
If it rains
Amalfi offers several indoor visits: the Duomo museum route with the Cloister of Paradise and the Basilica del Crocifisso, the Paper Museum and the Arsenals of the Republic (Arsenali della Repubblica). In bad weather boat excursions may be cancelled, so keep a backup plan.
If you are travelling with children
Move the Paper Museum to the morning, when children are more attentive, and leave the afternoon for the sea. The fountain with the nativity scene along the main street is always a welcome stop.
If you have a Vespa or a scooter
In the afternoon you can ride up to Ravello, a few kilometres away, to see the gardens of the historic villas and come back down to Amalfi in time for sunset. The road has many bends: set off without hurry and respect the limits.
If you want to avoid the crowds
The middle hours of the day, when groups arrive by ferry and by bus, are the busiest. Use that time for lunch or a break on the beach, and visit the centre early in the morning and in the evening.
Practical tips for the day
- Comfortable shoes: in Amalfi you walk a lot, often on stairs.
- Water and sun protection in summer.
- If you arrive by ferry, check the time of the last return departure.
- If you arrive by car, keep in mind that parking in the centre is limited and expensive.
Frequently asked questions
Is Amalfi in one day doable from Naples?
Yes, but the journey takes several hours there and back. To enjoy the day, it is best to leave early or to stay overnight on the Coast.
Is it better to go to the beach or take a boat?
It depends on the time available: the beach is convenient and close by, while the boat lets you see much more of the coast in a few hours.
Sources and useful links
Times, prices and services can change: always check with the official sources before you travel.
Updated: 2026-10-26
