The Path of the Gods (Il Sentiero Degli Dei)

This hike is one of the most incredible ways to experience the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast. I had read about it, heard stories, and seen countless photos—but nothing compares to actually being there. The feeling is beyond words, truly a breathtaking experience you’ll never forget.

I’ll do my best to share the logistics of this hike to make planning easier for anyone who hasn’t experienced it yet.

When to Go: I recommend avoiding the summer months (mid-June through September), as the combination of heat, humidity, and crowds can make the hike less enjoyable. Much of the trail is exposed, so the sun can be intense, and you’ll find yourself carrying extra water and taking frequent breaks—which makes the hike longer and more challenging.

We went in October, and the conditions were perfect for us, though we did encounter a few large groups that were difficult to pass on the narrow sections, and my favorite hike was on a sunny day in December, when we only encountered 2 other groups of hikers. I’d also suggest skipping the hike right after heavy rain, since the path can become muddy and slippery in the steeper areas. Finally, try to choose a clear day—good weather makes the views even more spectacular.

Where to Park: The most convenient option—since the hike is mostly downhill—is to start in Agerola, about an hour’s drive from Naples, and then return by bus and/or ferry to your car afterward. There’s a free parking lot (parcheggio gratuito) across from the Crazy Burger RistoBar and the Scuola Elementare Martin Luther King in Agerola. If you arrive early, you should be able to find a spot just a few minutes from the trailhead. Near the parking lot, you’ll also find a water station where you can refill your bottles for just a few cents, as well as restaurants if you want to grab a coffee or a bite before starting. From the lot, simply exit and walk to the left until you reach a small plaza—you’ll see signs pointing you toward the trail from there.

Once You Start: At the beginning of the trail, you’ll likely come across people trying to sell ferry tickets for the return trip, warning that they might sell out by the time you reach Positano. Don’t worry—there were plenty of ferries available when we finished, and it was nice not to feel rushed by a fixed departure time.

Almost immediately, the views open up to the dazzling Mediterranean, and they only get better as you go. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of scenic spots to pause, take photos, have a snack, or simply soak in the beauty.

The hike is relatively easy and mostly flat, but it does include some rocky inclines and declines. Good shoes and comfortable clothing make a big difference. I was surprised to see people attempting the path in fancy shoes—even heels!—and in jeans or leather jackets. That might work if you’re just walking a short stretch for a photo, but definitely not for completing the entire hike.

Pets and Kids: I often get asked whether this hike is suitable for children and pets, and the honest answer is: it depends. My kids (ages 11 and 13) are athletic, adventurous, and love the outdoors—and they actually handled the trail better than I did (those young, resilient knees!). That said, I think some sections could be tricky for smaller children, especially where I had to use my hands to steady myself on the descent.

The full hike to Positano took us a little over 2.5 hours (about 5.4 miles), moving at a fairly brisk pace with only a few breaks. Since it’s mostly downhill, that definitely worked in our favor.

We also brought along our 4-year-old yellow lab, Sancho, who, of course, thought it was the best day ever. Just be prepared—you’ll pass by a farm with donkeys and pigs, and we also encountered several cats, which definitely brought out Sancho’s mischievous side. Be sure to carry enough water for your dog and remember that a muzzle is required for pets on public transportation.

One final note: use extra caution with both kids and dogs near the cliffs, as much of the trail is unfenced and unguarded.

Going All the Way to Positano: For me, the best way to finish this hike is to continue all the way down into Positano—but be prepared, it comes with a challenge! Once you reach Nocelle, there are about 1,800 steps leading into town. The path winds past charming houses and offers incredible views, but honestly, this was the toughest part of the entire hike.

I had reserved a table at a beautiful restaurant with a balcony overlooking Positano, and it felt like the perfect reward after the long trek. After enjoying a leisurely lunch and a few drinks, we wandered through the town, did a little shopping, and then caught the ferry back to Amalfi (about a 15-minute ride) just before sunset.

From the Amalfi port, it’s easy to get back—there are buses and a taxi stand right there that will take you to Agerola and drop you near the parking lot.