8 days tour on the Amalfi Coast from Ischia departing from Rome

Imagine a week exploring some of Italy’s most breathtaking islands and coastlines, all packed into a well-organized 8-day adventure. Starting from Rome, this tour whisks you to the beautiful Ischia, Capri, Procida, and the dazzling Amalfi Coast, covering charming towns like Positano and Amalfi. For just over $1,160, you’ll enjoy a mix of guided excursions, relaxing days by the sea, and scenic boat rides — all with the convenience of included transportation and some flexibility for personal exploration.

What we love about this trip is how it balances organized sightseeing with free time to truly soak in the atmosphere of each island and town. The boat excursions are a highlight, offering stunning views you’ll find nowhere else, and the thermal park day on Procida adds a relaxing touch. The all-inclusive ferry and minivan transfers help keep logistics smooth, so you can focus on the scenery and delicious food.

A possible challenge is the tight schedule — especially during the days in Positano and Amalfi, where only a couple of hours are allocated for each stop. If you’re a slow explorer or crave more time in each place, this might feel rushed. Also, the group size is limited to 8 travelers, which is great for intimacy but requires early booking.

This tour suits those who want a comprehensive taste of southern Italy in a relatively short time, especially if you’re eager to see iconic sights like the Blue Grotto, Positano’s colorful houses, and Procida’s charming port. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, picturesque villages, and are comfortable with a moderate pace.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery at every turn, from Positano’s colorful cliffs to Capri’s Faraglioni rocks
• Effortless transportation with included ferries, minivans, and boat cruises
• Balanced mix of guided excursions and free time for personal exploration
• Comfortable accommodations at 4-star hotels, often with dinner included
• Authentic experiences like thermal parks and visits to historic sites
• Group size capped at 8 travelers for a more personal vibe

An In-Depth Look at the 8-Day Amalfi Coast & Islands Tour

When considering a trip through Italy’s most scenic and beloved spots, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by options. This tour offers a well-structured approach, balancing sightseeing with relaxation, and providing a chance to visit iconic islands and towns that many travelers only dream about.

Starting Point: Rome to Ischia

The adventure begins early in Rome, with a pickup that takes you via minivan to Naples, where you’ll board a ferry to Ischia — a volcanic island famous for its thermal springs and lush greenery. The transfer process is smooth, with staff on hand to assist, allowing you to focus on the journey rather than logistics. Arriving at a comfortable 4-star hotel, you’ll get a detailed info pack, and the first evening sets the tone for the trip with dinner and a good night’s sleep.

Day 2: Exploring Ischia

Your first full day on Ischia combines relaxation with exploration. Mornings are free for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying the hotel’s pools — a perfect way to unwind after travel. In the early afternoon, a boat trip reveals the island’s spectacular coastline, featuring sights like Spiaggia degli Inglesi, a lovely beach with fine sand and shallow waters.

One reviewer mentions how “the boat captain was especially ‘on it’ as the weather didn’t” always cooperate, which highlights the importance of flexibility. The boat ride ends at a submerged castle, adding a splash of history and adventure. The day is rounded out with dinner at the hotel, giving you a taste of island life.

Day 3: Discovering Capri

Next stop is Capri, a legendary destination famous worldwide. The ferry ride from Ischia offers gorgeous views of the sea, and on arrival, you’ll visit Anacapri, where the chairlift to Monte Solaro provides views that stretch from the Gulf of Naples to Salerno.

The Blue Grotto is a highlight, with its stunning blue hues created by light refraction — a natural spectacle that many travelers find unforgettable. A reviewer notes that “the views of the Faraglioni rocks are breathtaking,” and although the Blue Grotto tour isn’t included in the price, it’s well worth the extra effort if possible.

Day 4: Relaxing Day on Ischia

After the excitement of Capri, you get a free day back on Ischia. This is perfect for relaxing, strolling through local villages, or simply enjoying the hotel pools. The balance of guided activities and leisure time helps prevent travel fatigue.

Day 5: The Amalfi Coast by Boat

One of the trip’s most scenic days is the mini-cruise along the Amalfi Coast. You’ll leave early in the morning, with a boat ticket included, for a day of spectacular coastal views. The itinerary includes Positano, with its vertical architecture and pastel-colored houses, and Amalfi, where the cathedral and cloisters tell stories of centuries past.

The two-hour stops are a good amount of time for quick explorations, but some travelers, like a reviewer, felt “only got one hour” in Positano, which can be a bit rushed if you’re craving more time. Still, the boat ride provides unbeatable views of steep cliffs, hidden coves, and colorful towns.

Day 6: Procida Island

Proclaimed Italy’s Capital of Culture 2022, Procida offers a more relaxed, authentic vibe. The tour includes a walk through Terra Murata, a historic village with a former prison, and a visit to Porto di Corricella, a charming fishing harbor famous for its colorful houses and film fame (featured in “Il Postino”).

One reviewer loved how Apple and Microsoft used an image of Corricella for advertising, underscoring its visual appeal. The day ends with a leisurely visit to the beach town of Chiaiolella, perfect for a sunset walk or seafood dinner.

Day 7: Thermal Relaxation

A visit to Giardini Poseidon Terme provides a welcome break from sightseeing, with thermal pools, sauna, and beach access. It’s a full day of unwinding, which many find essential after several days of travel. The inclusion of this day emphasizes the tour’s focus on both scenic beauty and wellness.

Day 8: Return to Rome

The tour concludes with a morning at leisure, followed by the reverse transfer back to Rome. You’ll leave with plenty of beautiful memories and a sense of accomplishment — having seen a good chunk of Italy’s coastal treasures.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While the price is over $1,160, it covers all transportation, including ferries, minivans, and boat cruises, which can add up if booked separately. The hotels are described as comfortable, often with dinner included, and small group sizes mean more personalized attention — a real plus for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

The guided excursions are well-chosen, hitting the major highlights without overloading your days, so you can soak in the views and atmosphere. The inclusion of thermal parks and free time adds extra value, turning what could be just sightseeing into a more relaxed adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of southern Italy’s most iconic spots without the hassle of planning logistics. If you enjoy scenic boat rides, charming villages, and picturesque landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate small group travel and a mix of guided and free time.

However, if you prefer more time in each location or are a slow explorer, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. Also, if you’re looking for a deep dive into local culture or history, this tour offers a more scenic, surface-level experience.

FAQ

How many days does the tour last?
The tour runs for 8 days, including travel days, with most sightseeing and free time packed into that period.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation (pick-up, ferry, minivans), excursions, assistance, some meals (breakfasts and dinners), and entry to attractions like thermal parks and boat cruises.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, you’ll need to budget for tourist tax (€3 per day), optional activities like Blue Grotto visits, and personal expenses.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, but note that group size is limited to 8, making it ideal for those who prefer a more intimate setting. Singles should be aware of the single supplement cost.

What is the accommodation like?
Most nights are spent in comfortable 4-star hotels, with some reviews mentioning good service and helpful staff.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The schedule is fixed, but some optional excursions, like the Blue Grotto, might be available at extra cost.

Is there free time to explore independently?
Yes, especially in Positano, Amalfi, and Procida, where you have a couple of hours to wander and enjoy local cafes and shops.

What kind of transportation is used?
A combination of ferry rides, minivans, and boat cruises, which are included, facilitate smooth travel between islands and towns.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sun protection, and maybe a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don’t forget your camera!

Final Thoughts

This 8-day tour offers a good mix of scenic boat rides, charming towns, and relaxing days, making it well-suited for travelers seeking a hassle-free way to see Italy’s stunning islands and coast. The small group size and inclusion of transport and some meals provide good value, especially if you’re eager to avoid the stress of logistics.

While some may find the schedule a bit tight, the highlights — from Capri’s Blue Grotto to Positano’s steep alleys — are unforgettable. If you’re a traveler who loves picturesque views, authentic small villages, and a relaxed pace balanced with guided fun, this tour is a solid choice. Just be prepared for a busy week — but one filled with the kind of sights that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Whether it’s your first time in Italy or a return visit to explore more of its coastline, this trip gives you a genuine taste of Italy’s southern charm, all wrapped into a manageable, memorable package.