GemmaIf you’ve ever dreamed of winding roads that hug cliffs, sparkling blue waters beneath your wheels, and villages that look like they were plucked straight out of a postcard, the Amalfi Coast is calling your name. From my own personal experience, driving along this coastline isn’t just a journey—it’s a series of breathtaking moments that make you forget you’re even in a car.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a hopeless romantic, or someone who just wants to escape into beauty, these 12 scenic drives along the Amalfi Coast will make you fall in love with Italy all over again. Buckle up, because this is a ride you won’t forget.
1. Positano to Amalfi: The Classic Coastal Drive
Let’s start with the obvious one—the drive from Positano to Amalfi. If Positano’s steep, colorful cliffs haven’t already stolen your heart, this road will. The curves here are famous, and yes, the hairpin turns can make your stomach flip, but the views? Absolutely worth it.
Along the way, you’ll pass tiny lemon groves, terraced vineyards, and villas that cling to the cliffs like they’re defying gravity. Make sure to stop at the viewpoints—you don’t want to miss the panorama of Positano from above. Based on my overall experience, the best time to drive this route is early morning to avoid the tourist-packed roads and really soak in the quiet magic of the coast.
2. Amalfi to Ravello: A Drive with Heights and History
From Amalfi, head inland just a little, and you’ll find the road up to Ravello. This is a different kind of beauty—while the coast remains your backdrop, the hills and gardens of Ravello steal the show. Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone are must-see stops for their historic charm and gardens that seem to stretch endlessly toward the sea.
The winding climb up to Ravello can be a bit challenging if you’re not used to Italian roads, but the reward? Panoramic views that are impossible to forget. This is the perfect drive if you enjoy combining scenic views with a touch of history.
3. Sorrento to Positano: Cliffside Curves and Coastal Charm
Driving from Sorrento to Positano feels like stepping into a movie. The Amalfi Coast Drive, also known as the SS163, takes you through tunnels carved into cliffs and along roads that seem to hover over the Mediterranean. Each bend reveals something new: tiny fishing villages, hidden beaches, or a sudden burst of bougainvillea in full bloom.
From my own personal experience, keeping your camera handy is essential here. You’ll want to stop every few minutes, but a word of advice: park carefully. The locals take their parking seriously, and squeezing into those tight spaces is almost a sport.
4. Praiano to Conca dei Marini: Hidden Gems Along the Way
If you’re looking to escape the crowds, this stretch between Praiano and Conca dei Marini is perfect. The drive is quieter but no less stunning. You’ll find secluded coves perfect for a quick swim or just a pause to listen to the waves.
Conca dei Marini is home to the famous Grotta dello Smeraldo, a cave with emerald waters that glow in sunlight. It’s worth stopping here just to marvel at the natural beauty. This drive reminds you that some of the best experiences are hidden just off the main roads.
5. Minori to Maiori: Citrus, Beaches, and Local Life
This drive is shorter but full of character. The towns of Minori and Maiori are less touristy than Amalfi or Positano, giving you a glimpse of authentic coastal life. Along the road, you’ll see lemon groves, small trattorias, and beaches that feel almost private.
The stretch is gentle compared to the hairpin turns elsewhere, making it perfect if you want a more relaxed drive. Stop for a local pastry—the “delizia al limone” is a citrus dessert you’ll never forget. From my own personal experience, this drive feels like a secret that locals are happy to share.
6. Amalfi to Vietri sul Mare: Where Art Meets the Sea
Vietri sul Mare is famous for its ceramics, and the drive from Amalfi is an adventure in both scenery and culture. The road hugs cliffs and passes through tiny villages that are worth a detour.
Once in Vietri, take time to explore the colorful tiled buildings and artisan shops. It’s a scenic drive with a creative twist, showing you that the Amalfi Coast isn’t just about beaches—it’s a hub of craftsmanship too.
7. Ravello to Scala: Gardens, Ruins, and Serene Roads
If you want a slower, meditative drive, head from Ravello to Scala. The road twists through lush greenery, terraced hills, and historical ruins. Scala is less visited than Ravello, but its charm lies in that quiet feeling of being slightly off the beaten path.
Stop by the old churches, enjoy the view of the coastline from above, and take your time. This drive reminds you to savor the journey, not just the destination.
8. Positano to Nocelle: Panoramas Worth the Hike (or Drive)
While many travelers hike from Positano to Nocelle, the drive is equally spectacular. Nocelle sits high above Positano, and the roads leading there offer jaw-dropping views of the town below.
From my own personal experience, the higher you climb, the more you feel like you’re floating above the sea. The quiet roads here let you enjoy the peaceful side of the Amalfi Coast, away from tourist crowds.
9. Furore to Conca dei Marini: Fjords and Dramatic Views
The Furore Fjord is one of Italy’s hidden gems. Driving this stretch gives you dramatic views of cliffs plunging into the sea and tiny villages clinging to impossible heights. It’s a perfect combination of adventure and awe.
Stopping at the fjord itself is essential. The small beach at the base feels like a secret, and the bridge above is a favorite spot for photos. This is the kind of drive that makes you whisper, “How is this real?”
10. Atrani to Amalfi: A Cozy Coastal Drive
Atrani is one of Italy’s smallest towns, and the drive from here to Amalfi is short but enchanting. You’ll pass through narrow streets, squares filled with history, and glimpses of the sparkling sea at every turn.
From my own personal experience, this drive is like stepping into a miniature world where every corner tells a story. It’s perfect for those who appreciate charm in small doses.
11. Praiano to Positano: Sunset Drives That Stun
If you can time your drive for late afternoon, Praiano to Positano is magical at sunset. The sunlight hits the cliffs and the water in a way that almost seems staged, but it’s real.
Take it slow, enjoy the changing colors, and let yourself get lost in the beauty. Sunset drives are my personal favorite, because even if the road is twisty, every turn reveals a new masterpiece of nature.
12. Sorrento Peninsula Loops: Explore Beyond the Obvious
Finally, don’t just stick to the main Amalfi Coast roads. The Sorrento Peninsula offers loops that combine coastal views with charming inland towns. Explore Massa Lubrense, stop at tiny beaches, and discover local eateries serving the freshest seafood.
From my own personal experience, taking the less obvious roads allows you to connect with the real rhythm of the coast. It’s slower, quieter, and endlessly rewarding.
Final Thoughts on Driving the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is one of those places where the journey becomes just as important as the destination. These 12 scenic drives offer everything from high cliffs and hidden coves to vibrant towns and historic gardens. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, exploring secret beaches, or just enjoying the thrill of a twisty road, this coastline has something for you.
Driving here isn’t just sightseeing—it’s experiencing Italy with all your senses. The wind in your hair, the scent of citrus groves, the sound of waves below—it’s unforgettable. And remember, it’s not about rushing from one point to another; it’s about soaking in every view, stopping when you feel like it, and letting the road show you the magic of the Amalfi Coast.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.