How to Experience a Perfect Week in Italy from Sorrento to Capri
- Amy Harris
- Jul 17
- 11 min read
Italy’s Amalfi Coast and nearby islands offer some of the most stunning views, charming towns, and unforgettable experiences in the world. Planning a week-long trip from Sorrento to Capri lets you explore a mix of coastal beauty, historic villages, and vibrant culture. This guide will help you make the most of your time, balancing sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavors.
We began our journey by flying into Rome before taking the high-speed train to Naples, a comfortable trip of just over an hour. From there, we boarded a ferry across the Bay of Naples to Sorrento, where our Italian adventure truly began.
Although we briefly considered spending a night in Naples, we ultimately decided our time would be better spent in Sorrento—and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of the trip. Perched high above the sparkling Mediterranean, Sorrento welcomes visitors with colorful streets, breathtaking coastal views, and the relaxed atmosphere that makes the Amalfi Coast so unforgettable. Even with just one night, we had plenty of time to wander through the charming historic center, enjoy incredible local cuisine, and soak in our first Italian sunset overlooking Marina Grande.
Day 1: Exploring Sorrento
Sorrento is the perfect place to begin your Amalfi Coast adventure (although Sorrento is not really on the Amalfi Coast.) Perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, this charming seaside town offers the ideal introduction to southern Italy. With its colorful streets, welcoming cafés, breathtaking viewpoints, and relaxed pace, it's easy to see why so many travelers fall in love with Sorrento.
Although we only had one night here, we were able to experience many of the highlights. We wandered through the historic center, exploring its narrow cobblestone streets lined with artisan shops, boutiques, and cafés. We spent time in Piazza Tasso, the lively heart of the city where locals and visitors gather throughout the day, before making our way down to Marina Grande where we enjoyed a leisurely lunch at, Ristorante Bagni Delfino, one of Sorrento's most iconic waterfront restaurants. Sitting just steps from the water, we savored fresh seafood and homemade pasta while watching colorful fishing boats drift through the harbor. With panoramic views of the Bay of Naples stretching toward Mount Vesuvius, it was the perfect farewell to Sorrento—and one of those lingering Italian lunches that remind you there's no need to rush when you're on the Amalfi Coast.
Since our stay was brief, we chose Boutique Hotel Helios, a charming boutique hotel just a short walk from the historic center. The intimate atmosphere, beautiful sea views, and convenient location made it an excellent home base for our first night in Italy before continuing on to Praiano. One of the highlights of our stay was the complimentary breakfast served on the hotel's panoramic terrace. Sipping a mimosa while overlooking the sparkling Bay of Naples was the perfect way to begin our first full day on the Italian coast.
Don't Miss:
Wander Via San Cesareo for shopping and limoncello
Watch the amazing sunsets overlooking Marina Grande or while dining at a restaurant on the water!
Enjoy the fresh seafood and try gnocchi alla sorrentina
Stroll through Piazza Tasso
make sure to look over Via Luigi De Maio to see the famous and dramatic road carved directly into the volcanic tufa rock cliffs
Visit Giardini di Cataldo, one of Sorrento's most famous limoncello producers, where you can stroll through the lemon grove, sample homemade limoncello, and shop for local specialties.
Consider buying some local art or stop in a leather store for a bag (we did both!)
We bought two beautiful paintings from a local artisit who was busy working on one of his masterpieces right on the street.
Days 2–5: Slowing Down in Praiano
From Sorrento, we boarded a ferry to Positano before taking a private boat taxi along the coastline to our home for the next four nights—Grand Hotel Tritone in the peaceful village of Praiano. Arriving by sea was an unforgettable experience, with colorful cliffside villages and the dramatic Amalfi coastline unfolding before us.
When planning our trip, we intentionally chose Praiano over Positano. While Positano is undeniably beautiful, it can also be crowded and bustling, especially during the summer months. Praiano offered everything we were looking for: breathtaking views, exceptional restaurants, and a much more relaxed atmosphere. Looking back, it was easily the best decision we made while planning our itinerary.
Grand Hotel Tritone became much more than just a place to stay—it became part of the experience. Our days settled into a rhythm of slow mornings, leisurely all included buffet breakfasts overlooking the Mediterranean, afternoons spent lounging by the infinity pool or relaxing at the hotel's private beach, and evenings enjoying incredible dinners as the sun disappeared behind the cliffs.
One of the unexpected highlights was that we never felt the need to leave the resort for a memorable meal. La Cala delle Lampare, the hotel's signature restaurant, is considered one of the finest dining experiences in Praiano, serving beautifully prepared regional cuisine with breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast. For a more casual lunch or dinner, 1957 Bistrot, located just off the lobby, offers sweeping panoramic views of the coastline—and what turned out to be the best pizza we had during our entire trip to Italy. The resort's Ninò Beach Restaurant also serves a delicious lunch menu just steps from the private beach, making it easy to spend an entire day by the sea without ever leaving the property. Between the exceptional dining, spectacular setting, and warm hospitality, Grand Hotel Tritone felt less like a hotel and more like a destination in itself.
Rather than trying to check off every town on the Amalfi Coast, we embraced the Italian philosophy of dolce far niente—the sweetness of doing nothing. We still ventured out on memorable day trips to Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, but we never felt rushed. Instead, we returned each evening to the peaceful beauty of Praiano, where the pace of life encouraged us to slow down, savor every moment, and simply enjoy being there.
If we were planning this trip again, we wouldn't change a thing. Staying in Praiano gave us the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation, making it one of the most memorable parts of our Italian adventure.
Day Trip to Positano and Amalfi
A Day Exploring Positano & Amalfi
One of our favorite days on the Amalfi Coast began with a scenic drive from Praiano to Positano. Although Positano is arguably the most photographed town along the coast, I have to admit I was a bit overwhelmed by the crowds. The steep streets were packed with visitors, making it difficult to simply wander and soak in the atmosphere. Even so, its colorful buildings cascading down the cliffs are every bit as beautiful as the photos.
We spent a little time exploring the boutiques before stopping for a drink and pizza at the iconic Chez Black, one of Positano's most well-known waterfront restaurants.
After taking in the views from the beach, we boarded the ferry for the short ride to Amalfi.
The moment we arrived in Amalfi, the pace felt different. We began by touring the magnificent Duomo di Amalfi, whose grand staircase and stunning architecture dominate the heart of the town. The Duomo di Amalfi, officially known as the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, is the town's most iconic landmark and impossible to miss. Dating back to the 9th century, the cathedral is famous for its striking striped Byzantine façade, impressive grand staircase, and beautiful Cloister of Paradise. Inside, you'll find ornate chapels, intricate mosaics, and the crypt believed to house the relics of Saint Andrew, one of Jesus' twelve apostles.
From there, we wandered the narrow streets, stepping in and out of the shops until we stumbled upon a family-run restaurant in a less touristy area—Trattoria dei Cartari. Watching Nonna prepare fresh homemade pasta by hand made the meal feel even more special, and every bite reminded us why some of the best dining experiences are found far from the tourist hotspots.
Of course, no visit to Amalfi would be complete without trying the famous lemon gelato served inside an actual Amalfi lemon. We carried our dessert down to the waterfront before picking up a bottle of local wine and spending awhile simply watching the boats come and go in the harbor. It was one of those wonderfully unhurried moments that make Italian travel so memorable.
To end the day, we arranged a private water taxi back to Grand Hotel Tritone. Rather than taking the direct route, our captain surprised us by steering into several hidden sea caves tucked beneath the cliffs—places we never would have discovered on our own. Seeing the Amalfi Coast from the water, with its dramatic rock formations and colorful villages rising above the sea, was the perfect ending to a day that felt adventurous without ever feeling rushed.
Looking back, it was one of our favorite days of the trip—a reminder that the best memories often come from slowing down, following local recommendations, and leaving room for a little spontaneity.
We found water taxis to be the best way to get around, but they are quite expensive. You can also take ferry's to several places which we also did a few times, but they can be crowded and hot - Get the FerryHopper app on your phone!
An Evening in Ravello
One afternoon, we traded the coastline for the hilltop village of Ravello, and it ended up being one of the most peaceful evenings of our trip. Perched high above the Amalfi Coast, Ravello offers a completely different perspective, with breathtaking panoramic views and a slower, more relaxed atmosphere than the bustling towns below.
We spent the afternoon wandering through the beautiful gardens of Villa Rufolo, where flowering terraces overlook the sparkling Mediterranean and have inspired artists, musicians, and writers for centuries.
From there, we explored Ravello's charming streets, browsing small boutiques and soaking in the quiet elegance that makes this town so special.
As evening approached, we settled in for dinner at the historic sea view restaurant, Bella Vista Sul Mare, it's been around since 1880. We timed our reservation perfectly, watching the golden sunset slowly give way to a sky filled with stars and the soft glow of lights twinkling along the cliffs below. By the end of dinner, the breathtaking coastal views had transformed into a magical moonlit panorama.
If Positano is known for its energy and Amalfi for its history, Ravello is where you go to slow down, savor the moment, and simply take in one of the most beautiful views on the Amalfi Coast.
The only issue with Ravello is you need to take a car to get there and back and we quickly discovered Taxis whether on the road or the water are quite expensive along the Amalfi Coast.
Days 6–7: Discovering Capri & Anacapri
Saying goodbye to Praiano wasn't easy, but our next destination was just as exciting. Instead of taking a water taxi back to Positano and then boarding a crowded ferry, we arranged a private boat transfer from Grand Hotel Tritone directly to Capri. It was a wonderful way to enjoy one last morning on the Amalfi Coast while turning our travel day into part of the adventure.
Our captain met us at the hotel's private dock and cruised along the dramatic coastline, stopping at several of Capri's famous sea caves along the way. We admired the brilliant waters of the Green Grotto, where we jumped in for a refreshing swim, explored the striking White Grotto, and shared a kiss inside the naturally heart-shaped Heart Grotto. According to local folklore, couples who kiss there are blessed with lasting love and good fortune. Whether or not the legend is true, it certainly made for a memorable stop before arriving on the island.
Travel Tip: If you arrive in Capri by private boat, be prepared for additional marina and docking fees, which can add up quickly. In our case, there was also going to be an extra charge for our luggage. We were able to avoid those baggage fees by agreeing to have lunch at one of the marina restaurants, as the boat captain and restaurant worked together. It's worth asking about your options before you arrive—you may be able to negotiate or find an arrangement that saves you money. Just remember that the Marina Grande area is one of the more expensive parts of Capri, so it's wise to budget accordingly.
After a leisurely waterfront lunch in Capri, we checked into our hotel, cleaned up after a day on the water, and enjoyed a little time to relax before heading back out for the evening. One thing you'll quickly notice on Capri is the island's iconic open-air taxis. Many are stylish convertibles with their roofs removed, making even a short ride feel like part of the experience.
That evening, we enjoyed dinner on the expansive terrace at Al Capri, where panoramic sea views provided the perfect backdrop as the sun disappeared over the Mediterranean. It was a relaxing first evening on the island before turning in for the night.
The following morning reminded us exactly why we chose to spend the night in Capri rather than visiting on a day trip. By taking the funicular to Capri Town early, we were able to stroll the elegant streets, browse the boutiques, and admire the famous Piazzetta while the town was still peaceful. As the ferries arrived and the crowds began to grow, we headed to Anacapri, the island's quieter and more laid-back side.
For lunch, we stopped at Casa Orlandi Ristorante e Pizzeria, a charming restaurant in the heart of Anacapri. With lemon trees hanging overhead and a traditional wood-fired oven turning out pizza after pizza, it felt like the quintessential Capri lunch stop. We ordered homemade Ravioli Capresi (because you have to have it at least once on the Island).
After lunch, we visited the beautiful Church of San Michele, while its simple white exterior doesn't hint at what's inside, the church is home to one of Capri's most remarkable treasures—a breathtaking hand-painted majolica tile floor depicting the Garden of Eden. Created in the 18th century from thousands of colorful ceramic tiles, the intricate artwork is unlike anything we've seen and is best admired from the elevated viewing platform above.
One of my favorite experiences on Capri was taking the chairlift to Monte Solaro, the highest point on Capri. The chairlift itself is an unforgettable experience, gently gliding above vineyards, gardens, and rooftops before reaching the summit. The breathtaking panoramic views from the top stretch across Capri, the Faraglioni rock formations, and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. We lingered over a couple of drinks, soaking in the scenery before making our way back down.
That evening, we took another ride in one of Capri's stylish convertible taxis to dinner at Ristorante Panorama, where incredible views of the Faraglioni made the perfect setting for our final dinner on the island. Afterward, we experienced Capri's famous nightlife at Taverna Anema e Core, where live music, dancing on the tables, and an energetic crowd made for the perfect way to end our stay. If you are looking to dance all night and maybe spot some celebrities or people visiting from their mega yachts, this is one of the best places to do that.
Final Thoughts
Looking back, this itinerary gave us the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. We explored the colorful streets of Sorrento, embraced dolce far niente while staying in peaceful Praiano, wandered through the iconic towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, and ended our journey with unforgettable days and nights on the magical island of Capri.
What made this trip so special wasn't simply the places we visited—it was the pace at which we experienced them. Instead of racing from one attraction to the next, we allowed time for long lunches, leisurely afternoons by the sea, spontaneous discoveries, and evenings spent lingering over dinner as the sun disappeared into the Mediterranean.
If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be this: don't try to see everything. The Amalfi Coast isn't a destination meant to be rushed. Stay a little longer, choose fewer hotels, linger over another glass of wine, and leave room for the unexpected. Some of our favorite memories came from moments we never planned—a hidden sea cave, a family-run trattoria, an evening that stretched from sunset into moonlight, or simply watching the waves from our hotel terrace.
Italy has a way of reminding you that life isn't measured by how much you accomplish in a day, but by how fully you experience it. We arrived hoping to see the Amalfi Coast. We left with memories that will stay with us for a lifetime—and already dreaming about the day we'll return.
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