Amalfi Coast: 2 Weeks - Self Guided Rail Tour

Sorrento, perched on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, is a captivating town known for its stunning views of the Bay of Naples, lush citrus orchards, and charming old town. It’s also famous for it’s limencello; when you’re picking up a bottle, make sure to look for a PGI certification, which certifies that the limoncello is made from Sorrentine lemons. Its unique location makes it a perfect base for exploring the surrounding areas, while the town itself offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and Mediterranean charm.

Highlights

• Marina Grande: A picturesque fishing harbor with colorful boats, offering a glimpse into traditional Sorrentine life and delightful seafood restaurants.
• Cloister of San Francesco: A peaceful retreat featuring a beautiful medieval cloister and a baroque church, often hosting art exhibitions and concerts.
• Correale di Terranova Museum: Housed in an elegant villa, this museum showcases a collection of Neapolitan paintings, decorative arts, and stunning views of the Sorrento Peninsula.

On Day 4: Ferry to Capri (1 hour)

Capri, an idyllic island in the Bay of Naples, is famed for its rugged landscape, luxury boutiques, and stunning panoramic views. Known for its sophisticated charm, Capri attracts visitors with its blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and upscale ambiance.

Highlights

• Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra): A cave where sunlight passing through an underwater cavity creates a blue reflection, offering a mesmerizing experience.
• Mount Solaro: Reach the highest point of Capri by chairlift for breathtaking views of the island and the Bay of Naples.
• Villa San Michele: Built by the Swedish physician Axel Munthe, this historic villa in Anacapri boasts beautiful gardens, art, and spectacular views.

On Day 6: Train & Ferry to Positano (3.5 hours)

Positano, a cliffside village on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, is renowned for its picturesque beauty, with pastel-colored houses cascading down to the sea. This enchanting town offers a blend of stunning scenery, artistic heritage, and chic Mediterranean lifestyle.

Highlights 

• Spiaggia Grande: Positano’s main beach, known for its vibrant atmosphere, is lined with cafes and shops and offers a classic view of the town.
• Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei): A famous hiking trail providing spectacular coastal views, it connects Positano with other towns along the Amalfi Coast.
• Church of Santa Maria Assunta: Featuring a majestic dome and a Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary, this historic church is a symbol of Positano’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

On Day 8: Train to Amalfi (1 hour)

Amalfi is celebrated for its scenic beauty, maritime heritage, and distinctive Mediterranean architecture. Surrounded by mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, the town offers a charming blend of history, art, and coastal allure.

Highlights

• Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi): An architectural masterpiece with a striking façade and a beautiful cloister, reflecting the town’s past glory.
• Museo della Carta (Paper Museum): Discover the history of papermaking in Amalfi, housed in an old paper mill.
• Valle delle Ferriere: A nature reserve offering picturesque hiking trails through lemon groves, waterfalls, and ancient ruins, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.

On Day 11: Train to Salerno (1.5 hours)

Salerno, a coastal city in southern Italy, is known for its rich history, lively waterfront, and cultural vibrancy. It combines the charm of a historical old town with the energy of a modern urban center, making it an intriguing destination on the Amalfi Coast.

Highlights

• Salerno Cathedral (Duomo di Salerno): A medieval cathedral housing the relics of Saint Matthew, with a stunning crypt and a tranquil cloister.
• Castello di Arechi: A medieval castle perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city and the coastline.
• Lungomare Trieste: Salerno’s scenic seafront promenade, ideal for a leisurely walk with beautiful views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

On Day 13: Train to Naples (1 hour)

Concluding your journey along the Amalfi Coast, you return to Naples, enriched by the diverse experiences and sights of the region. From the stunning landscapes of Positano and Amalfi to the tranquil charm of Capri, and the lively atmospheres of Sorrento and Salerno, the trip offers a comprehensive exploration of this renowned Italian coastline. Each destination has provided a unique insight into the region’s culture, history, and cuisine, culminating in a fulfilling and memorable travel experience.