Naples Shore Excursion: Private Tour to Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi

This private full-day tour offers a comfortable and flexible way to see some of Italy’s most iconic coastal towns—Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello—without the hassle of planning transportation or navigating narrow, busy streets. Perfect for cruise travelers looking to maximize their time, this experience combines scenic drives, personalized stops, and the option for an English-speaking guide to enrich your understanding of the region.

What we love most about this tour is its customizable nature—you can spend as much time as you’d like in each town, soaking up the atmosphere, snapping photos, and enjoying local cuisine. A common highlight from past guests is the knowledgeable drivers who are praised for their flexibility and local insight. The stunning scenery along the coast is, of course, a huge draw. However, it’s worth noting that some towns, like Amalfi and Ravello, involve a fair amount of walking on stairs and uneven surfaces, which could be a consideration for less mobile travelers.

All in all, this tour is a fantastic choice for adventurous couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet comprehensive day exploring the Amalfi Coast’s most beloved spots. It’s especially suited to those who value comfort, flexibility, and insider tips over structured group itineraries.

Key Points

• Flexible Itinerary: Customize how long you spend in each town, making it suitable for your pace.
• Private Transport: Enjoy air-conditioned comfort and the convenience of port pickup and drop-off.
• Scenic Drives & Photo Stops: The coast’s views are spectacular, with plenty of stops to capture the moments.
• Local Insights: Guides or drivers with local knowledge help enhance your experience, especially if you opt for an English-speaking guide.
• Cost-Effective: The price reflects not just transportation but also the personalized nature of the trip, with the potential for group discounts.
• In-Depth Experience: Past travelers mention memorable moments like excellent restaurant recommendations and picturesque viewpoints.

A Complete Look at the Amalfi Coast Private Tour

Starting Point and First Stop: Sorrento

Your day begins early with a pickup around 9:15 am, right outside the Naples cruise port. From there, you’ll be whisked away in a private, air-conditioned vehicle—an essential feature given the sometimes warm Italian summer days and winding coastal roads.

The first stop is Sorrento, a town famed for its dramatic cliffside setting, bustling port, and sweeping views of the Bay of Naples. As one reviewer notes, “Sorrento is the best stop and take extra time there,” highlighting how much there is to see—from lively piazzas to charming alleyways and local crafts. Guests who skip the guided tour often find their own hidden gems, like small cafes or artisan shops. The free time here lets you enjoy the panoramic vistas, wander through the town’s winding streets, or grab a quick gelato.

Positano: The Iconic Colorful Village

Next, the scenic drive takes you to Positano, the postcard-perfect town famous for its pastel houses stacked on steep slopes and its picture-perfect beaches. Past guests consistently praise the quaint laneways filled with shops, and the church of Santa Maria Assunta that crowns the town.

Most travelers spend about an hour here, with many choosing to linger in the colorful boutiques or sit at a seaside café. One review mentions, “Positano sits in a splendid panoramic position…it’s truly enchanting.” If you prefer, you can skip lengthy shopping or sightseeing and head straight to the next destination or a scenic lookout.

Praiano and Beyond: Quiet Sunsets and Hidden Gems

The tour then passes through Praiano, a smaller, less crowded village that is known for its sunset views—”the place where the sun sets the latest,” as one traveler fondly notes. This quick stop offers a chance to appreciate the quiet beauty of the coast away from tourist crowds.

From there, you’ll continue along the coastal road to Conca dei Marini and Furore. These lesser-known spots are treasured for their natural beauty—Emerald Grotto in Conca dei Marini and Italy’s famous Fiord in Furore. Guests often mention stopping to admire these natural wonders and to taste local specialties like the sfogliatella, a ricotta and dried fruit pastry invented here.

Amalfi: The Historic Heart of the Coast

Your next major stop is Amalfi, a town renowned for its mediterranean charm and iconic white houses. One reviewer describes it as “one of Italy’s most famous resorts,” and you’ll quickly see why. The town sprawls along the coast with narrow lanes, historic piazzas, and waterfront cafes.

Guests are given about an hour here to explore, with some opting to visit the cathedral or browse local shops. Many find Amalfi’s atmosphere lively and welcoming, perfect for a quick stroll or a coffee break with a view.

Ravello: The Elevated Beauty

Finally, your trip culminates in Ravello, perched high above the coast. This town is famed for its marvelous villas and gardens, and the views of the coast from its elevated position are truly spectacular. Past travelers mention that Ravello involves some stairs and uneven terrain, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Guests usually spend an hour here, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and panoramic vistas—many recommend visiting the Villa Rufolo or Villa Cimbrone if time allows. If you’d rather skip Ravello, you can extend your time in Amalfi or Positano.

Transportation and Flexibility

One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is the private chauffeur-driven car—a big step up from crowded group buses. With air conditioning and a dedicated driver, you can relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about navigation or traffic. Plus, pickup and drop-off at the port ensure you won’t miss your cruise departure.

The 8-hour duration provides ample time to explore without feeling rushed, and the flexibility to stay longer in your favorite towns makes this experience stand out. If you decide to skip certain stops or linger longer, your driver will accommodate that, which past guests have found to be a major plus—one even extended their trip to ensure they saw everything.

Guides and Local Insights

While the basic package includes a driver with minimal English skills, many travelers opt to add an English-speaking guide for more context. Even without it, drivers often share interesting tidbits and local recommendations. Past reviews mention guides or drivers like Rosario, Pippo, and Ciro, who are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to find the best photo spots.

Cost and Value

Priced at around $314.41 per person, this tour offers a good balance between cost and experience. Compared to group tours, the private nature provides exclusivity, flexibility, and a more relaxed pace. When you factor in the convenience of port pickup, private transportation, and the opportunity for personalized stops, many find this to be excellent value—particularly for smaller groups or couples wanting a tailored day.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

From the reviews, it’s clear that drivers like Rosario and Pepe often go beyond just driving—they help create memorable moments with their friendly manner and local tips. One reviewer mentions, “Rosario showed us some stunning picturesque locations and even stopped for us in breathtaking spots,” illustrating how these guides often enhance the experience.

Many guests highlight the stunning views and photo opportunities—from Positano’s colorful houses to Amalfi’s historic townscape. When it comes to food, some took advantage of recommended local restaurants, with one reviewer describing a meal overlooking the coast as “splendid,” and another praising the excellent restaurant in Amalfi.

The tour’s flexibility is another recurring theme—guests appreciate being able to skip or spend more time in towns, rather than being locked into a rigid schedule. This freedom allows for a more authentic experience, enjoying the towns at your own pace.

Tips from Reviewers

• Take comfortable shoes for walking in towns like Ravello and Amalfi.
• Ask your driver for restaurant recommendations—many guests rave about the quality and views.
• Bring your camera—the photo stops are truly breathtaking.
• Be prepared for some narrow, winding roads—not everyone loves mountain drives, but the views are worth it.

The Sum Up

This private tour of the Amalfi Coast from Naples offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and personalized flexibility. It’s best suited for travelers who want to set their own pace, enjoy stunning vistas, and avoid the crowds. The private vehicle and dedicated driver mean comfort and convenience, making it a stress-free way to explore this stunning stretch of Italy.

The experience is particularly valuable for those who appreciate authentic moments, like discovering a hidden pottery shop or enjoying a seaside lunch recommended by their driver. The inclusion of stops at iconic towns like Positano and Amalfi, combined with the peaceful allure of Ravello, provides a comprehensive taste of the coast’s diverse character.

While some towns involve stairs and uneven terrain, most travelers find the effort worthwhile for the views and atmosphere. The flexibility to stay longer in your favorite spots or skip others makes this tour adaptable to individual preferences. The knowledgeable drivers and scenic routes truly bring the coast’s beauty to life, giving you a memorable and personal Italian adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since Ravello and Amalfi involve a fair amount of stair climbing and uneven surfaces, this tour may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. It’s best to assess your comfort with walking on stairs.

Can I customize the amount of time spent in each town?
Yes, being a private tour, you can decide how long you want to stay in each stop—whether to linger or move on sooner.

Does the tour include an English-speaking guide?
Optionally, you can choose a guide for an additional fee. The driver generally has minimal English, but past guests found him helpful in providing local insights.

What does the price include?
The cost covers port pickup and drop-off, private air-conditioned transportation, and a driver. Guide services are optional and may incur extra charges.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included unless specified. However, many guests stop at local restaurants and enjoy regional cuisine.

Are there additional city access taxes?
Yes, there are small entry taxes for vehicles in Positano (€60), Amalfi (€60), and Ravello (€30). These are not included in the tour price and are paid directly if applicable.

This private Amalfi Coast tour from Naples strikes a balance between comfort, personalized experience, and breathtaking scenery. Perfect for those who want to explore without rushing or feeling like just another face in a large group, it offers a tailored taste of Italy’s most beloved coastal towns.