The Amalfi Coast. An incredible oasis of crystal blue sea and colorful houses built into the cliffside. What seems like a dream can actually become a reality! The key is to plan with plenty of lead time.

For the third blog in our series of 'Italy in 5 Trips,' we are spotlighting the Amalfi Coast. As this area is increasingly popular, we can't stress enough the need to plan with at least 6 months of lead time.

For starters, you can fly into Naples or Rome, with a 1.5 or 3.5 hour drive time respectively. There is no easy way of arriving via public transit, so we will arrange a private transfer from the airport to your accommodations on the coast. Depending on how much time you have to travel, we recommend an itinerary along the following: 4-5 days Amalfi Coast, 3 days Capri, 3 days Rome.

There are plenty of wonderful activities to do during your time on the costiera. One of our favorite excursions is the Trail of the Gods, or Sentiero degli Dei hike. Your private hiking guide will escort you to Nocelle, where the hike begins. Several hundred meters above sea level, this hike gives you a view of the Gods, looking down over the sparkling Mediterranean sea. To keep you well fueled, your guide will stop at the picnic table of your dreams, with an unbelievable view, to enjoy a light snack. The 3 hour hike is moderate in difficulty, but the views make it all worth it. On clear days, you can see straight across to Capri and along the entire Gulf. End your afternoon with a lovely lunch at La Tagliata, an agroturismo which serves homemade specialites including in house cured meats and cheeses.

Other activites on the coast include a private boat ride, which is not to be missed. Your skipper will take you along the coast, to discover hidden swimming coves and beautiful coastline which is only accessible by boat. For a more relaxed pace, enjoy the afternoon at one of the several 'lido' or beach clubs, which offer 'lettini' or sun beds and food and drink service.

As your time on the coast comes to an end, not to fret as there is much more in store. Hop on the aliscafo, or hydrofoil and jet over to the magical island of Capri. Well known for its jetsetting and celebrity crowds, Capri has much more to offer than the star studded scene.

One of our favorite things to do in Capri is hiking. There are 5 or 6 wonderful hikes, which combine beautiful scenery with ancient Roman history. Take Villa Jovis, for example. After a short 45 minute hike from the main piazza, you will arrive at the ruins of the villa built by emperor Tiberius in AD 27. Tiberius ruled the Roman Empire from this remote villa. Villa Jovis is the largest of the twelve Tiberian villas on Capri, and provides a rare glimpse into the ancient Roman empire.

Similar to the Amalfi Coast, Capri is full of beach clubs where you can relax in style. There are several different clubs to choose from, the family friendly Cazone del Mare, Il Faro next to the lighthouse in Anacapri, or the super chic La Fontellina, based under the famous Faraglioni.

After your days exploring the beautiful coastline, head to Rome to cap off an amazing trip. Depending on how man times you have visited the eternal city, we an recommend plenty of activites for the first time or return traveller. There is always something exciting to do in Rome, whether it be a private tour of the Vatican, sitting in the Papal audience, visiting Villa Borghese, or enjoying a foodie walking tour through the local food markets.

Starting this May, United will offer non stop flight from New York to Naples, making the Amalfi coast easier to reach than ever. Don’t wait, start planning your trip to paradise today!