Path of the Gods Italy: Routes, Distance & Best Times to Go in 2025

The Path of the Gods Italy is more than just a walk—it’s a journey that leaves most travelers speechless. Carved into the cliffs high above the Amalfi Coast, this ancient hiking trail links quiet villages with sweeping views of turquoise seas and dramatic limestone peaks.

Some say its beauty feels almost divine, which explains why locals once called it the Sentiero degli Dei, or “Trail of the Gods.”

For hikers, it’s one of the most rewarding experiences in southern Italy. The classic route stretches about 6.5 km (roughly 4 miles) between Bomerano and Nocelle. Expect 2–4 hours of walking, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take photos.

The terrain ranges from rocky paths to lots of stairs, making it moderately challenging but unforgettable.

Path of the Gods Italy Guide 2025

In this guide, you’ll discover:

• The different Path of the Gods route options and their distances
• Seasonal tips on the best times to go
• Practical logistics like buses, ferries, and where to stay
• Cultural insights, food stops, and hidden gems

Whether you’re planning a full Amalfi hiking holiday or a quick day trip, this article will help you make the most of your walk along this beautiful trail.

Overview of Sentiero degli Dei

✔️ Where & What Is It?

The Sentiero degli Dei lies along the cliffs above the Tyrrhenian Sea, connecting Bomerano (a hamlet of Agerola) with Nocelle, a hillside path village above Positano. The route’s name, “Path of the Gods,” comes from the breathtaking panoramas and myths tied to ancient Greek gods.

✔️ Brief History & Legend

According to local lore, the gods themselves once walked this mountain trail to rescue Ulysses from the Sirens that tempted sailors near Capri. Over the centuries, it became a practical link for shepherds and farmers navigating between small communities. Today, it’s preserved as a hiking jewel, drawing walkers from around the world.

✔️ Landscape, Vistas & Key Natural Features

The landscape is nothing short of dramatic: rugged limestone mountains, terraced vineyards, chestnut woods, and sheer drops to the shimmering sea. On clear days, you can spot the island of Capri in the distance. Spring brings wildflowers, while autumn paints the hills in earthy tones. Every turn feels like stepping into a postcard.

Route Options & Variants

✔️ Classic Route: Bomerano → Nocelle

This is the most popular way to experience the Path of the Gods. Starting in Bomerano, you’ll cover about 6.5 km (4 miles) to Nocelle, with roughly 200 meters of elevation gain. Most hikers finish in 2–3 hours.

Highlights:

• Wide-open coastal views early on
• Passing through terraced fields and stone paths
• Rest stop at Il Chiosco del Sentiero degli Dei, a tiny café perched on the cliffs

Challenges:

• Sections with steep drop-offs (though well-marked and safe)
• Rough terrain requiring sturdy shoes
• Plenty of steps, especially near the end

✔️ Reverse Route: Nocelle → Bomerano

Some travelers prefer hiking the Path of Gods in reverse, starting from Nocelle. The advantage? You’ll face the coastline head-on almost the entire way, making for epic photos. The drawback is finishing in Bomerano, which feels less lively than ending in Positano. Difficulty-wise, both directions are similar.

✔️ Extended Routes & Alternative Starts

• From Praiano: A tougher option with a steep climb of about 1,900 steep stairs before joining the main trail. Best for fit hikers.
• Via Montepertuso: Adds time but rewards you with a peek at local farming hamlets and old chapels.
• Family-friendly options: If you’re short on time, consider partial sections like Bomerano to Colle Serra, where views are spectacular without committing to the full hike.

Distance, Elevation & Difficulty Breakdown

✔️ Elevation Profile & Terrain Types

The Path of the Gods covers about 6.5 km (4 miles) from Bomerano to Nocelle. While the distance may sound manageable, the mix of rocky steps, uneven stones, and exposed cliffside stretches makes it more than just a walk in the park. Expect elevation changes of 200–250 meters, depending on where you begin.

✔️ Staircases & Steep Sections

The biggest challenge comes when you connect the hike down into Positano. You’ll face lots of stairs—some estimate over 1,500 steep stairs—which can feel endless after hours of walking. This part is especially tough on the knees, so many hikers prefer stopping in Nocelle and catching the bus down instead.

✔️ Fitness Required & Who This Trail Is For

This isn’t a hike for hardcore mountaineers, but it does require decent fitness. Casual walkers will need breaks, while experienced trail runners often breeze through in under two hours. Families with older kids can manage it, but toddlers or those with mobility issues may struggle.

✔️ Hazards & Tricky Sections

Most of the route is safe, but rain can make stones slick. The cliffs have no guardrails, so hikers with vertigo should be cautious. Summer heat is another factor—pack plenty of water.

Best Times to Hike

✔️ By Season

• Spring (March–May): Mild weather, wildflowers, and clearer skies. Probably the best overall season.
• Summer (June–August): Stunning views but scorching heat. Expect heavy crowds along the Amalfi Coast.
• Autumn (September–November): Warm but less humid, great lighting for photos.
• Winter (December–February): Trails are quieter, but some sections can be slippery or foggy.

✔️ By Time of Day

Morning hikes are ideal. You’ll enjoy cooler air and fewer people. Midday gets hot and busy, while afternoons bring golden-hour light but a risk of finishing in the dark.

✔️ Crowd Levels & Microclimate

In peak summer, crowds swell, especially near Nocelle and Positano. Off-season or early mornings provide a much calmer experience. Remember: the trail’s microclimate differs from the shore—cooler breezes on the ridge, warmer temps in sheltered spots.

Logistics & Getting There

✔️ Starting Points & Trailheads

Most hikers begin in Bomerano, accessible by SITA bus from Amalfi or Agerola. Others start in Nocelle if they want to end the hike in Bomerano. Either way, the trail is well-marked with red-and-white signs.

✔️ Transport Options

• SITA Bus: The main public transport along the Amalfi Drive. Affordable but often crowded in peak season.
• Sita buses also run from Amalfi to Agerola (Bomerano) for around €2–€3 per trip.
• Mobility Amalfi Bus: A convenient shuttle service connecting smaller villages with trailheads.
• Travelmar ferry: A scenic ferry ride is an alternative for reaching Amalfi or Positano before catching a local bus to the trail start. It’s more expensive but unforgettable.
• Taxis and private transfers are faster but pricier.

✔️ Accommodations Nearby

• Bomerano/Agerola: Budget-friendly guesthouses and B&Bs, perfect for an early start.
• Positano: Chic hotels and boutique stays with higher prices.
• Praiano: A quieter option with mid-range choices.

✔️ Maps, Markers & Safety Essentials

No permits are required. Maps are available in town shops or online, but most hikers just follow the well-signed route. Pack water, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, and a small snack. The Mobility Amalfi Coast website posts updated transport info—worth checking before your trip.

Suggested Itineraries

✔️ One-Day Hike Plan

For a classic one-day adventure, start early in Bomerano. Take a SITA bus from Amalfi, grab breakfast at a café, then hit the trail by 9 a.m. Walk the main route to Nocelle, enjoy a snack at Il Chiosco del Sentiero degli Dei, and then either hike the stairs down to Positano or catch a local bus. By evening, relax with dinner at La Tagliata, a family-run restaurant famous for hearty meals and panoramic views.

✔️ Half-Day / Short Variant

Pressed for time? Consider Hiking the Path of the Gods from Nocelle to Colle Serra, which takes just an hour or so but still delivers incredible scenery. It’s a great way to sample the trail without committing to the full distance.

✔️ Multi-Day Amalfi Coast Stay

If you’re staying several nights, plan a small-group Path walk with a guide one day, then spend other days exploring nearby towns by scenic ferry. Adding this hike into a wider Amalfi itinerary blends nature, history, and local culture seamlessly.

✔️ Hiker’s Timing Plan

Start no later than 8–9 a.m. in summer to beat the heat and crowds. Budget short breaks every 30–45 minutes, especially at lookout points. If you’re joining a Private Amalfi Coast Tour, itineraries usually build in rest stops, photography breaks, and transfers back to your hotel.

What to Expect on the Trail

✔️ Scenery & Viewpoints

Expect jaw-dropping views the entire way: Capri in the distance, Positano’s pastel houses below, and rugged cliffs plunging into the sea. Some hikers even say this is the most photogenic section of the entire Amalfi Coast.

✔️ Flora, Fauna & Seasonal Changes

Wildflowers blanket the hills in spring, while autumn brings golden light across the terraces. Lizards sunbathe on rocks, and you might spot goats navigating the slopes with ease.

✔️ Amenities: Food, Water & Toilets

Options are limited, but you’ll find drinks and snacks at Il Chiosco del Sentiero degli Dei. Public restrooms are rare, so plan accordingly.

✔️ Trail Surface & Footwear

Sturdy shoes are essential. The mountain trail is rocky, uneven, and sometimes slippery after rain. Don’t underestimate it.

✔️ Safety Tips

Weather can change quickly. Carry water, a light jacket, and don’t push beyond your stamina. Guided walks—like a Private Amalfi Coast Tour—offer added safety and convenience if you’re unsure.

Cost & Tour Options

✔️ Public Transport vs Private Transfers

A SITA bus ticket costs just a few euros, making it the cheapest option. For those preferring comfort, private transfers cost €60–€100 depending on distance.

✔️ Guided Tours

Joining a Private Amalfi Coast Tour or group trek comes with perks: expert insights, reserved transport, and less stress. Prices start around €40–€70 per person for group tours, while private experiences can go much higher.

✔️ Budget Tips

• Stick to buses for transport.
• Pack snacks instead of buying along the way.
• Combine the hike with a scenic ferry ride for a memorable but still affordable day.

✔️ Hidden Costs to Watch

Some visitors underestimate food and water costs in Positano, which are higher than in Agerola. Also, guided hikes may not include return transport—always confirm details before booking.

Final Takeaway

Walking the Path of the Gods Italy is one of those bucket-list experiences that lives up to the hype. From ancient legends of Greek gods to sweeping views over the Amalfi Coast, this route blends nature, culture, and history in a way few hikes can.

If you want the classic experience, hike from Bomerano to Nocelle, stopping for a break at Il Chiosco del Sentiero degli Dei, then finish with dinner at La Tagliata.

For convenience, a Private Amalfi Coast Tour provides expert guidance and stress-free transport. And if you love independent adventure, public transport like the SITA bus and ferries make it budget-friendly.

The best advice? Plan early, start your walk in the morning, and bring plenty of water. Whether you’re a casual walker or a seasoned hiker, the Path will reward you with views, stories, and memories to last a lifetime. So lace up your boots and get ready—the gods are waiting.

Frequently Asked Question