Salerno to Positano Amalfi Ravello – Private Amalfi Coast Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with scenic coastal views, charming towns, and a touch of luxury, this private Amalfi Coast tour in a Mercedes van might just be your perfect match. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews paint a clear picture of an experience that offers both comfort and authentic Italian charm.

What we love about this tour is how it balances iconic sights with personal touches—like a knowledgeable driver who shares local insights, the flexibility of private transportation, and the opportunity to explore at your own pace. Plus, with stops at Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, you’ll get a taste of the region’s most photogenic spots. The only thing to keep in mind is that this is a full-day adventure, so it’s best suited for travelers ready to soak up a lot of beauty in one go. If you’re after a relaxed, deeply curated experience with hassle-free logistics, this tour is worth considering.

Good To Know

• Private, air-conditioned transportation for comfort and flexibility
• Expert English-speaking driver providing local insights and charming commentary
• Visit multiple towns—Positano, Amalfi, Ravello—without the stress of driving yourself
• Stunning views of the Mediterranean coastline at every turn
• Flexible pickup options from port, train station, airport, or hotel in Salerno
• Excellent value for a full-day guided experience with personalized attention

How the Tour Works: From Salerno to the Coast and Back

This tour offers a well-rounded, approximately 8-hour experience that takes you from Salerno through the highlights of the Amalfi Coast. It’s designed for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without the hassle of navigation or public transport, and it’s especially helpful if you’re arriving via cruise, train, or plane.

Starting Point and Pickup

Your adventure kicks off in Salerno, a city known for its vibrant historic center and seaside charm. The pickup is flexible—you can be collected from the port, train station, airport, or your accommodation, which adds a layer of convenience especially if you’re arriving in Italy after a long journey. The driver, an English speaker, will greet you and get you comfortable for the day.

Scenic Drive Along the Coast

The initial drive along the Amalfi Coast is a highlight—imagine winding roads hugging cliffs, with spectacular views over the Mediterranean. This segment is roughly an hour, but those panoramic vistas make every minute worth it. Expect plenty of photo stops and chances to soak in the dramatic coastline, which is often considered one of Italy’s most beautiful drives.

Positano: The Colourful Cliffside Village

The first major stop is Positano, famous for its hillside houses painted in pastel shades, narrow winding streets, and stylish boutiques. As the reviewer Michael noted, the town’s “colorful buildings cascading down the hillside” are truly a sight to behold. You’ll have about an hour here to wander at your own pace, explore the shops, and admire the iconic Spiaggia Grande beach.

What to Expect in Positano

Once you arrive, you’ll love the opportunity to stroll through the picturesque streets, lined with local art galleries, cafes, and fashion boutiques. If you’re feeling energetic, climbing a few steps up and down the town reveals stunning viewpoints and hidden corners. The main beach, Spiaggia Grande, offers a perfect spot to relax or grab a quick snack from a seaside café.

The Beach Experience

You can spend around an hour lounging on the sand or simply soaking up the lively, vibrant atmosphere. Expect beautiful views of colorful buildings rising above the water—truly a visual feast. The review from Michael hints at a serene atmosphere despite the town’s popularity, perfect for some laid-back downtime.

Amalfi: The Historic Heart of the Coast

Next, your driver takes you to Amalfi, another gem of the region. Known for its rich maritime history, Amalfi is steeped in tradition and boasts a stunning cathedral, the Duomo di Sant’Andrea, which dates back to the 9th century. Although the visit to the cathedral isn’t included in the ticket price, you’ll get ample time to explore the square and admire the architecture.

What Makes Amalfi Special

The town’s narrow streets are lined with cafes, quaint shops, and historic sights. You’ll love wandering around, taking in the lively atmosphere — ideal for those who enjoy a blend of history, culture, and seaside charm. Be prepared for some steps between the streets and the cathedral, but that’s part of the authentic Amalfi experience.

Food and Local Cuisine

While the tour doesn’t include a meal, Amalfi’s local eateries are well worth seeking out. You might find small trattorias serving fresh seafood, lemon-infused drinks, and regional specialties—perfect for a quick lunch or snack before heading to Ravello.

Ravello: The Artistic and Scenic Summit

Your journey continues uphill to Ravello, famous for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning villas, and sweeping sea views. Ravello has long attracted artists and musicians, drawn to its peaceful ambiance and breathtaking vistas.

Highlights in Ravello

The main attractions are Villa Cimbrone Gardens and Villa Rufolo, both offering spectacular gardens and terraces overlooking the coast. The review from Michael highlights Villa Cimbrone’s “breathtaking vistas,” which are truly unforgettable. The hour spent here is enough to wander through lush gardens, snap memorable photos, and enjoy some quiet contemplation away from the bustling coast.

Why Ravello Stands Out

Unlike the busy towns below, Ravello offers a peaceful retreat, making it perfect for those who love art, architecture, or simply a serene setting. The panoramic views from these villas are some of the most iconic on the coast, providing perfect photo opportunities and a chance to breathe in the fresh sea air.

Returning to Salerno

After exploring Ravello, the driver will take you back along the scenic coast, ensuring you catch the last breathtaking views before your departure. The drive back provides a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights, with more stunning vistas to admire from the comfort of your air-conditioned van.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour’s value largely hinges on its all-inclusive nature—gasoline, tolls, parking, and passes are covered, which means no hidden costs. The private transportation in a comfortable minivan makes a big difference, especially for those who prefer privacy and flexibility.

However, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for meals or snacks during the day. Luckily, the stops at Amalfi and Positano are filled with tempting eateries and cafes.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

Based on the review from Michael, our driver Antonio was “an amazing guide,” sharing local insights and taking us to some lesser-known spots, adding a personal touch that elevates the experience. While the tour is quite structured, the private aspect allows for some flexibility—want a few extra minutes at Ravello? That’s probably possible.

The tour is priced at $443 per person, which might seem high at first glance. But considering the private transportation, expert guide, and the access to multiple stunning locations in one day, it offers pretty good value—especially if you’re traveling with others to split costs. Booking well in advance (53 days on average) reflects its popularity, and the flexible cancellation policy means you can plan with peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a luxurious, hassle-free day exploring the Amalfi Coast’s highlights. It suits those who appreciate personalized attention, stunning vistas, and a relaxed pace—perfect for honeymooners, small groups, or anyone keen on avoiding the chaos of driving or navigating public transport. It’s also a great option if you’re arriving via cruise, as it offers a seamless way to see the coast without complex logistics.

However, if you’re a budget traveler or prefer a more independent, self-guided experience, you might find this tour a bit pricey. Still, for those who value comfort, expert insights, and a tailored itinerary, it’s hard to beat.

Final Thoughts

This private Amalfi Coast tour delivers a beautifully curated experience with an emphasis on comfort, authenticity, and spectacular scenery. The combination of charming towns, breathtaking views, and a knowledgeable driver makes it a standout option for anyone looking to make the most of their time on the coast.

While it’s a full day with some walking and sightseeing, the personalized approach and all-inclusive setup ensure you won’t miss a thing. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip to Italy, this tour offers a convenient, stylish way to soak up the magic of the Amalfi Coast.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. It’s an approximately 8-hour tour with some walking at each stop, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Can I be picked up directly from my hotel or cruise port?
Absolutely, the pickup can be arranged from your Salerno hotel, airport, train station, or port, making it very convenient.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, gasoline, tolls, parking, and passes, as well as pickup and drop-off in Salerno.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or plan to buy lunch during the stops.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 30 minutes in Salerno to an hour or so at each town—Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Villa Cimbrone Gardens. This allows for a relaxed exploration without feeling rushed.

Is there flexibility during the tour?
Yes, since it’s a private experience, you can discuss additional stops or extra time with your driver if desired, within the scheduled duration.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience the Amalfi Coast’s highlights without the stress of driving or planning. It offers a blend of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and personalized service that’s hard to beat for a day trip from Salerno.