Italy makes you feel as if you are entering a lovely dream. The cobbled streets of Rome, with their ancient ruins and lively piazzas, lead to the cliffside villages and blue seas of the Amalfi Coast, creating a truly timeless experience.
In just nine days, you can easily enjoy the beauty of Rome and the lovely coast of the Amalfi. This itinerary offers a wonderful mix of history, relaxation, and beautiful coastal views, with each day designed to fully enjoy both destinations. Here’s a guide to enjoying nine days of the sweet life!
Day 1: Arrival in Rome and First Evening Exploration.
Arriving in Rome is a rush, but the thrill of exploring this historic city makes it all worthwhile. After getting comfortable in the hotel, I’m ready to stretch my legs and begin exploring.
Walking through Piazza Navona is a wonderful way to begin, with its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful fountains, and talented street artists. Only a short walk away are the Spanish Steps, a lovely place to enjoy the sunset and experience the first touch of Roman magic.
A cozy trattoria near Piazza Navona is the perfect spot for dinner, where you can enjoy classic Roman flavors. With carbonara and a glass of red wine, it truly feels like Italy.
Day 2: Ancient Rome—Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
Today is an important day for ancient history! Arriving at the Colosseum early is important to steer clear of the crowds. It’s difficult to picture the gladiators who once battled here, but with a little imagination, it becomes vivid.
The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill offer a special view of Rome’s history, filled with ancient ruins all around. It feels like going back in time, especially on the Palatine Hill, with its green gardens and views of the city.
In the evening, the narrow streets and hidden squares of Trastevere create a wonderful place for dinner. It’s lively and has a local feel, with many places offering traditional Roman dishes. After a long day, a plate of cacio e pepe has never been more satisfying.
Day 3: Vatican City—Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica
Getting to the Vatican Museums early is important, especially if you want to enjoy everything fully. The Sistine Chapel is even more breathtaking than expected—it’s one thing to see Michelangelo’s work in photos, but quite another to stand beneath it.
After enjoying the beauty of the chapel, it’s time to visit St. Peter’s Basilica. Climbing to the dome is good exercise, but the view from the top is amazing, with the entire city laid out beneath you.
Tonight’s dinner is close to Vatican City. It seems just right to finish the day with some pasta and a little wine, relaxing after such an amazing experience.
Day 4: Rome’s Art and Fountains—Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Villa Borghese
Today, I begin my exploration of Rome’s art and architecture at the Pantheon. This ancient temple’s architecture is always impressive. From there, I take a short walk to the famous Trevi
Fountain, where I toss in a coin (because who wouldn’t want to return to Rome someday?). Villa Borghese offers a peaceful way to spend the afternoon, whether you are walking through the gardens or exploring the art collection at the Borghese Gallery.
On my final night in Rome, I must stop for gelato. Walking by the Tiber River with gelato in hand is the perfect way to finish my Roman adventure.
Day 5: Travel to the Amalfi Coast—Settle in Sorrento or Positano
I’m heading to the Amalfi Coast! You can easily train from Rome to Naples and then enjoy a beautiful ferry ride along the coast. I get comfortable in Sorrento; its charm and central location make it an ideal base.
After checking in, I stroll around, enjoying the Mediterranean atmosphere. Sorrento’s narrow streets are filled with lemon-scented souvenirs, cafés, and locals who welcome you warmly like an old friend.
As the sun goes down, I discover a seaside restaurant with a view that makes the trip worthwhile. Having dinner while looking at the sparkling sea begins a whole new Italian experience.
Day 6: Amalfi Coast Day Trip—Amalfi Town and Ravello
Today’s plan focuses on enjoying the coastline. A quick trip takes me to Amalfi, a vibrant town featuring a stunning cathedral and a bustling square. Visiting the cathedral and strolling through the streets is both delightful and calming.
Next, we head to Ravello, a small town located on the cliffs overlooking the sea. The views here are amazing, especially from Villa Rufolo, where the gardens appear to hang over the Mediterranean.
After a relaxing day, I come back to Sorrento. A laid-back dinner wraps up the evening—nothing elaborate, just a nearby spot where fresh seafood is the main attraction.
Day 7: Relaxing Day in Positano
Positano is a place that encourages you to take your time. The pastel-colored buildings and boutique shops make it difficult to say goodbye. Walking through the narrow streets offers many chances for photos, and I take time to look at the local art and ceramics, which are just as vibrant as the town.
In the afternoon, I choose to go to the beach and enjoy the sunshine. A cooking class is a relaxing way to learn local recipes, like making pasta and perfecting limoncello. As the sun sets, I enjoy an Aperol Spritz while watching the sky change to beautiful shades of orange and pink above the cliffs. Life is quite nice here.
Day 8: Boat Excursion to Capri
I plan a day trip to Capri, so I book a boat tour that goes directly from Sorrento. The Blue Grotto is as enchanting as I had envisioned, with its shining blue waters. Capri town is lovely, ideal for a relaxed stroll and a delicious lunch.
I visit the Gardens of Augustus to enjoy some nature and take in the beautiful views of the Faraglioni rocks in the water below.
I’m back in Sorrento for the night. I choose a simple dinner and plan to go to bed early. The sea air and sun have me feeling ready to unwind before heading home.
Day 9: Departure—Final Morning in the Amalfi Coast
Leaving Italy is tough, but I take a last morning stroll and enjoy one final coffee with a view of the coast. I have a little extra time to grab some lemon candies and local olive oil as souvenirs, so I’m ready for the trip back. With my suitcase full of memories and a few thoughtful souvenirs, I can’t help but reminisce about the beauty and charm of this unforgettable destination. As I wait to board my flight, I find myself scrolling through ideas for my next adventure, stumbling upon a guide to the best day trips from Paris—a reminder that there’s always another corner of the world to explore. The excitement of new experiences softens the bittersweet goodbye, and I feel ready to embrace whatever journey lies ahead.
Whether you’re returning to Rome or going directly to Naples for the airport, it’s obvious that Italy touches your heart.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
Packing Essentials:
Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, as the cobblestones in Rome and the hills of the Amalfi can be tough on your feet. During the summer, it’s important to wear lightweight clothes and protect yourself from the sun. In spring and fall, you should add an extra layer for the cooler evenings.
Accommodation Recommendations:
In Rome, look for spots around the city center—close to main attractions and plenty of restaurants. On the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is a solid base for its ease of access to other towns, while Positano is perfect for a more laid-back vibe.
Transportation Tips:
Traveling from Rome to the Amalfi Coast is easy. You can take a quick train to Naples and then choose between ferries or buses to reach your destination. Trains provide excellent comfort, and ferries give a beautiful view as you arrive along the coast.
Safety and Seasonal Advice:
During the summer, there are many people, and it can get very hot. If you don’t like the heat, spring or fall could be a better choice for you. Always watch your personal belongings, especially in busy tourist areas, because petty theft can happen in crowded places.
Conclusion
After nine days, I can say for sure that Italy is a place you can visit again and again. The combination of history in Rome and the beautiful coast of the Amalfi Coast offers a wonderful mix of adventure and relaxation.
Every day has its own special moments—from the Colosseum to Capri’s Blue Grotto—and I depart with a happy heart and lasting memories.
FAQ
1. How many days should I spend in Rome vs. the Amalfi Coast?
Your travel goals will guide your choices, but a well-rounded 9-day itinerary typically features 4 days in Rome and 5 days on the Amalfi Coast. This allows enough time to visit Rome’s main attractions while also enjoying a more relaxed pace along the coast.
2. What’s the best time of year to visit Rome and the Amalfi Coast?
The ideal times to visit are in spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October), when the weather is nice and there are fewer people around. Summer is a favorite time for many, but it can get very hot, and popular tourist spots tend to be busier.
3. What’s the best way to get from Rome to the Amalfi Coast?
The train from Rome to Naples is the quickest and easiest choice. You can take a ferry or bus from Naples to Sorrento, Positano, or other towns along the Amalfi Coast. The train ride lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, and taking ferries or buses adds an extra 1 to 2 hours.
4. Should I stay in Sorrento or Positano on the Amalfi Coast?
Sorrento is a wonderful central spot that offers quick access to the towns along the Amalfi Coast and day trips to places like Capri. Positano is beautiful and peaceful, making it ideal for travelers who want a calm experience and breathtaking views of the sea.
5. Do I need to book tickets in advance for major Rome attractions?
It is a good idea to book tickets ahead of time for attractions like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and St. Peter’s Basilica, especially during busy times of the year. Many attractions provide skip-the-line tickets that help you save a lot of time.
6. Is it simple to do a day trip to Capri from the Amalfi Coast?
Day trips to Capri are popular and simple to organize. Ferries operate regularly from Sorrento and Positano, and there are private boat tours available that explore the Blue Grotto and other attractions on the island.
7. How can I avoid the crowds at popular attractions?
Getting there early in the morning or going later in the afternoon helps you miss the busy times. Some places, such as the Colosseum and Vatican Museums, provide early access or guided tours that take you to quieter areas.
8. What type of clothing should I pack?
For spring and fall, pack comfy shoes, light clothing, and a jacket. In the summer, you need light clothing, sunscreen, and hats to protect yourself from the sun. Remember that some religious sites, such as St. Peter’s Basilica, require you to dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees.
9. Is the Amalfi Coast easy to explore without a car?
Absolutely! Ferries and local buses connect the main towns of the Amalfi Coast, enabling easy exploration without the need for a car rental. Driving can be tough because of the narrow, winding roads and the lack of parking in places like Positano.
10. What are some must-try foods in Rome and on the Amalfi Coast?
When in Rome, enjoy traditional dishes such as carbonara, cacio e pepe, and supplì (fried rice balls). On the Amalfi Coast, you can enjoy tasty seafood dishes such as grilled octopus and spaghetti alle vongole (clam pasta). Be sure to try the lemon-infused limoncello for dessert!
