If you’re planning a trip that blends ancient history, stunning coastlines, and the quintessential Italian “dolce vita,” combining Rome + Amalfi Coast + Sorrento is a perfect choice.
This itinerary is well-paced, avoids backtracking, and gives you the best of both worlds: immersing yourself in two thousand years of history while enjoying the Mediterranean sun, cliffs, and sea breeze. Below, I’ve broken down a 10-day plan that’s easy to follow and Instagram-worthy.
✈️ Quick Overview (10 Days)
- Day 1–4 | Rome – History, city walks, and food exploration
- Day 5 | Rome → Naples → Sorrento – Travel day
- Day 6–7 | Sorrento – Relaxed exploration and day trips
- Day 8–9 | Amalfi Coast – Positano, Amalfi, Ravello
- Day 10 | Departure from Rome or Naples
Days 1–4 | Rome: Getting Lost in 2,000 Years of History
Rome isn’t just a “checklist city.” It’s best explored at a leisurely pace, wandering streets, piazzas, and hidden corners.
Day 1 | Intro to Rome: A Leisurely Walk
Morning:
- Arrive in Rome (FCO or CIA airports)
- Check into a central location (Pantheon, Piazza Navona, or Trastevere)
Afternoon:
- Spanish Steps & Piazza di Spagna
- Trevi Fountain (don’t forget the coin toss 💶)
Evening:
- Stroll through Piazza Navona
- Aperol Spritz at a street-side café 🍹
Pro Tip:
Don’t overpack the first day—jet lag and long flights make a slow start essential.
Day 2 | Ancient Rome: Colosseum & Roman Forum
Morning:
- Colosseum (book tickets in advance!)
- Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Afternoon:
- Mouth of Truth (photo opportunity only)
- Altare della Patria for panoramic city views
Evening:
- Trastevere neighborhood for dinner
- Pizza 🍕
- Fried artichokes
- Local wine 🍷
Day 3 | Vatican City & Art Immersion
Morning:
- Vatican Museums (Sistine Chapel ceiling is breathtaking!)
- St. Peter’s Basilica
Afternoon:
- Walk along the Tiber River
- Castel Sant’Angelo at sunset for epic views
Evening:
- Dinner by the river 🌅
Day 4 | A Slower Roman Day
Optional themes:
- Food tour (try gelato, pasta, and local delicacies)
- Borghese Gallery for art lovers
- Café-hopping + bookshops for a relaxed vibe
Think of this as a “free day” to truly soak in Roman life.
🚆 Day 5 | Travel to Sorrento (via Naples)
Suggested route:
- Rome → Naples by high-speed train (~1 hour)
- Naples → Sorrento via Circumvesuviana train
Optional stops:
- Grab a slice of authentic Neapolitan pizza 🍕
- Pompeii ruins if time allows
🍋 Days 6–7 | Sorrento: Embrace the Mediterranean Slow Life
Sorrento is the perfect base for comfort, charm, and nearby adventures.
Day 6 | Explore Sorrento
- Wander the old town
- Coastal cliff paths
- Sample lemon products & Limoncello tasting 🍋
Evening:
- Dinner at a seaside restaurant
- Sunset over the Mediterranean
Day 7 | Capri Island or Mount Vesuvius (Choose One)
Option A | Capri Island
- Blue Grotto 💙
- Anacapri cable car
- Lunch by the sea
Option B | Mount Vesuvius + Pompeii
- Hike the volcano
- Explore ancient Pompeii ruins
🌊 Days 8–9 | Amalfi Coast: World-Famous Coastal Beauty
From Sorrento, choose your transport:
- Ferry (highly recommended) 🚢
- Private car or bus
Day 8 | Positano + Amalfi
Morning | Positano
- Colorful cliffside town
- Beach & cafés
- Plenty of photo ops 📸
Afternoon | Amalfi
- Amalfi Cathedral
- Coastal stroll
- Gelato break 🍦
Day 9 | Ravello: Peaceful Heights
- Villa Cimbrone (stunning sea views)
- Villa Rufolo (gardens & music festivals)
- Perfect for couples or solo reflection 💙
Evening:
- Final dinner along the coast
- Listen to the waves, sip white wine
✈️ Day 10 | Departure
- Travel from Amalfi / Sorrento → Naples
- Fly out from Naples or Rome
🧳 Practical Tips
Accommodation:
- Rome: Historic center (walkable)
- Sorrento: Sea-view hotel or cozy B&B
- Amalfi Coast: Positano or Ravello (quiet but pricey)
Transportation:
- High-speed trains (Trenitalia / Italo) are best
- Coastal routes: ferries avoid traffic headaches
Packing & Attire:
- Comfortable walking shoes 👟
- Summer: sun protection essential
- Dress smartly for dinner—Italians care about style