Drive the Amalfi Coast with Hertz on this Italian Road Trip Adventure
Few drives in the world can match the drama of an Amalfi Coast road trip. From Naples at the start of the journey to a relaxed holiday in Salerno at its close, this route winds through some of Italy's most breathtaking scenery. Ancient ruins, volcanic landscapes, clifftop villages and shimmering coastlines make this Amalfi Coast itinerary one of the most rewarding drives on the continent. Use the Hertz Road Trip Planner to map out your route for this coastal cruise.
AMALFI COAST ROAD TRIPS, COASTAL DRIVES AND ITALY TRAVEL INSPIRATION
Plan the perfect Amalfi Coast itinerary with curated stops from Naples to Salerno, driving through clifftop villages, volcanic landscapes and sun-drenched coastline with your favourite rental car
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Amalfi Coast Adventure
Naples - Salerno
From the historic centre of Naples to a slice of paradise on the island of Ischia, a road trip along the Amalfi Coast is heaven on earth. Whether you want to soak up the history in a Roman amphitheatre or soak up the sun on a golden beach, this Italian adventure has something for everyone.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 1: Historic Centre of Naples 1/14
The UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Naples is a maze of wondrous relics and stunning architecture dating as far back as the 9th century BC. Wander through the rustic streets, gelato in hand, admiring the colourful street art. Head to Piazza del Plebiscito, a famous public square, where towering stone columns curve around the perimeter. Snap some pictures of the grand Royal Palace building, which sits at its centre, and join a tour to learn more about the local heritage.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 2: Certosa di San Martino 2/14
Originally a Carthusian Monastery in the 1300s, Certosa di San Martino has been decorated and embellished by various architects over the centuries. Now it stands proud for all to enjoy, a testament to Italian and Neapolitan artistry. Wander through the tranquil grounds, admiring the stunning structure as it gleams in the Italian sunshine. From the top, enjoy views over the city and out to the glittering sea. Inside, you’ll discover magnificent ceiling murals, soaring naves and intricate stonework.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 3: Naples Underground 3/14
On the surface, Naples is brimming with beauty and life, but beneath these bustling streets there are even more sights to behold. Travel below ground and wind your way underneath the city through a network of tunnels and caverns. Discover underground systems spanning centuries, from Greek-Roman aqueducts to ancient theatres and air raid shelters from World War II. Join a tour to experience this incredible archaeological wonder, one totally hidden from the outside world.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 4: Flavian Amphitheatre of Pozzuoli 4/14
Travel back in time to the glory days of Ancient Rome with a tour of Pozzuoli’s archaeological treasures. The Flavian Amphitheatre was built by the same architect behind Rome’s colosseum and its well-preserved underground areas offer a fascinating insight into the elaborate shows once staged here. The cliff-top Rione Terra is where the city began back in the 2nd century BC, while the Temple of Serapis was initially mistaken for a religious building but is actually a former Roman market complex.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 5: Lake Avernus 5/14
Take your chances and visit the ‘Gateway to Hell’, also known as Lake Avernus (or Lago d’Averno to locals). In Roman mythology, this volcanic crater lake was said to be the entrance to the Underworld where Hades called the shots. Now, more than 2,000 years after those legends were created, you can expect a more tranquil experience. Enjoy views of the water by bike or foot, admiring the amazing scenery that surrounds it. Head to the nearby sulphuric Phlegraean Fields to observe volcanic activity bubbling at the surface.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 6: Procida 6/14
Park up the car and take the ferry to the island of Procida, a joyful destination with pastel-hued houses, pretty harbours and an easy charm. Tuck into fresh seafood and traditional Italian dishes at an array of great restaurants, explore the trio of harbours – Marina Grande, Marina Corricella and Marina di Chiaiolella – and check out the imposing Palazzo Montefusco. The Bay of Naples’ best-kept secret also boasts a cute beach in the shape of Lido di Procida.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 7: Ischia 7/14
Ischia is a true slice of paradise, accessible via ferry from both the mainland and the island of Procida. Relax in one of the thermal spas, found in the tiny towns of Lacco Ameno and Forio, or dive into the island’s history by paying a visit to Aragonese Castle. This medieval fortress, perched on a rocky islet, contains a torture museum with the instruments once used on display. Giardini La Mortella is another must-visit, a subtropical and Mediterranean garden teeming with flora and fauna.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 8: Vesuvius National Park 8/14
Head back to the mainland and make for Vesuvius National Park. The sun-baked grounds showcase the impressive volcanic crater that caused one of the most catastrophic eruptions in European history. Now, it’s a conservation and observatory site used to protect the wealth of plants and animals that call it home. Follow the Gran Cono path to walk along the crater edge, or opt for the Lava Path, forged by a red-hot river of lava from a past eruption.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 9: Pompeii 9/14
Experience the devastation caused by Vesuvius with a fascinating walk through the ruins of Pompeii. The town is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and an archaeological wonder, with near-perfectly preserved relics and buildings from the year 79 AD. Swallowed by volcanic ash, the city was lost for 1,500 years. Today it’s open for visitors to view preserved skeletons, ancient inscriptions and intricate mosaics which remain untouched inside the city walls.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 10: Sorrento 10/14
Offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and Mediterranean architecture, Sorrento is a town you’ll want to return to again and again. Picturesque fishing spots on the bay lead onto snug streets lined with shops selling traditional crafts and eateries serving up delicious local cuisine. Get your bearings at the bustling central square of Piazza Tasso, then visit the Basilica di Sant’antonino, named after the town’s patron saint and a fine example of Baroque architecture.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 11: Positano 11/14
Take a day to relax and recharge with a stop in Positano. Named after the Greek sea god Poseidon, this coastal village provides drama and charm in equal measure. Spend time on the sand at Spiaggia Grande or escape the crowds at the lesser known Fornillo. The village itself is a warren of steep streets serving up stunning views out to the Sirenuse Islands, past chic boutiques and buildings that proudly flaunt their Moorish influences.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 12: Amalfi Cathedral 12/14
Sitting at the top of a steep flight of stairs, Amalfi Cathedral is a dramatic structure with an Arabian aura. The eye-catching exterior takes inspiration from the exotic east, while inside you’ll find classic examples of Baroque and medieval design flourishes. Grand embellishments are everywhere, including ornate gold ceilings and hand-crafted sacred statues. Once you’ve finished exploring, seek out one of the inviting eateries tucked away in the surrounding streets.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 13: Maiori 13/14
Enjoy some serious beach time at one of the best and biggest on the Amalfi Coast. A popular resort dating back to Roman times, Maiori also boasts a bustling town filled with restaurants and shops, while the 9th-century Castle of San Nicola de Thoro Plano and a nearby fresco-filled monastery are worth seeking out. Neighbouring Minori has a reputation for pasta built on its flour mill past. Look out for scialatielli, the town speciality that’s served as thick, silky ribbons.
Amalfi Coast Adventure
Stop 14: Salerno Cathedral 14/14
Complete your Amalfi Coast road trip with a visit to Salerno. The city’s cathedral is a celebration of cultures, with Roman, Baroque and Arab influences all coming to play in the building’s design. Head inside to gaze at ornate decorations on every wall, ceiling and pillar, as well as mosaics dating from the 12th century. Spend some time wandering the mile-and-a-bit-long Lungomare Trieste of Salerno. A pretty beachfront promenade, it takes you from the heart of the Old Town to the harbourside Piazza della Concordia.
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