How To Get To AMALFI COAST From Naples: Travel Guide
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most breathtaking destinations, but figuring out how to get there—and how to travel between its charming seaside towns—can be a challenge. Since there’s no direct train station or an airport in Amalfi, you’ll need to combine different modes of public transportation, whether it’s a flight, local train, ferry, or private transfers. Once you arrive, getting from one town to the next can be just as tricky, with narrow roads, limited parking space, and seasonal ferry service. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! This guide breaks down the best way to reach the Amalfi Coast and navigate the region so you can make the most of your trip without the stress.
Travel Tip: Planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast? Save this post in your browser for easy access while you’re on the go. Be sure to check out my Amalfi Coast Guide for more travel tips, the best tours for a memorable experience, and a list of top things to do on the Amalfi Coast.
Keep reading for my simple guide on how to get to the Amalfi Coast. I’ve outlined a few options for you, starting with how to reach the Amalfi Coast from Naples, Rome and Salerno. The nearest international airport to the Amalfi Coast is Naples (Capodichino Airport), but many travelers opt to fly into Rome due to more affordable flights. If you’re coming from another Italian city like Florence or Venice, your best bet is to first travel to either Naples or Rome (typically by train or plane). Your choice of transport will depend on factors like travel time, comfort, and your final destination.
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Main Transport Hubs For The Amalfi Coast
Getting To The Amalfi Coast From Naples
From Naples To Amalfi Cost: By Ferry
From Naples To Amalfi Coast: Train and Bus
From Naples To Amalfi Cost: Shared Shuttle
From Naples To Amalfi Coast: Private Taxi
Getting To The Amalfi Coast From Rome
From Rome To Amalfi Coast: Train and Bus
From Rome To Amalfi Cost: Direct Train To Salerno and Bus or Ferry
From Rome To Amalfi Coast: Private Car
Discovering the Amalfi Coast
Tucked away in Southern Italy, the Amalfi Coast is a very popular destination that stretches between the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno in the Province of Salerno. Located about 1.5 hours south of Naples, the nearest major city and a common starting point for travelers heading to one of the most picturesque towns with beautiful views on the coast.
Though the coastline extends roughly 30 miles (50 km), navigating it can be tricky due to the narrow, windy road that connects the towns. During peak season, heavy crowds can lead to long traffic jams, making travel between towns slow and frustrating. That’s why the shoulder season—spring and early fall—is the best time to visit. You’ll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and far less congestion on the roads. But trust me—you’ll want to explore every corner of this stunning Campania region, especially with its breathtaking beaches and scenic landscapes. In this guide, I’ll break down the best ways to get around so you can make the most of your trip.
The Amalfi Coast consists of several main towns, each offering its own unique charm, along with many smaller towns. Here are the key destinations:
- Positano: The most iconic and vibrant town, famous for its colorful cliffside houses and lively atmosphere.
- Amalfi: The namesake town of the coast, known for its historic and famous cathedral, and charming streets.
- Capri: the crown jewel of Amalfi Coast. A breathtaking island with crystal-clear waters, luxury shopping, and the famous Blue Grotto. Accessible only by ferry or private boat.
- Ravello: Perched high above the coastline, Ravello offers beautiful views and a rich cultural scene, it does not have a port so you have to get there via a bus ride or a private car.
- Praiano: A quieter, more laid-back alternative to Positano, and less expensive, ideal for a peaceful escape. There is no ferry port, you have to get here by bus or a private car.
- Sorrento: While not officially part of the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is the perfect starting point. It’s a convenient hub with great transportation options, making it an easy place to begin your journey.
Main Transport Hubs for the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is situated in the Campania region of southern Italy, just south of Naples. To reach this stunning coastal paradise, key transport hubs include Naples, Sorrento, and Salerno. Whether you’re arriving by plane, train, or ferry, these towns serve as your starting points on the way to your final destination.
Once on the coast, the SITA buses are one of the primary form of public transportation, providing convenient and regular service between the towns along the coast. The buses are an excellent way to explore the region, but be prepared for winding, narrow roads that connect each town. To travel by bus, bus tickets can easily be purchased at Tabacchi shops (tobacco shops) in most towns. Whether you’re headed to Positano, Amalfi, or Ravello, these buses will help you get from one town to the next with ease. Additionally, ferries operate frequently during the summer months, offering a scenic route between coastal towns for a more leisurely journey through the towns of the Amalfi Coast.
Flying To The Amalfi Coast
One of the first steps in planning your Amalfi Coast trip is deciding where to fly into. While there’s no airport directly on the Amalfi Coast, the closest airport is Naples Capodichino International Airport, situated about 60 km (37 miles) to the north.
Although Naples is most convenient and the closest international airport, it’s not the only option. Depending on your departure location, flying into Rome Fiumicino may be a better choice, as it offers more international connections. If you choose to fly into Rome, keep in mind that it will take at least four hours (or more) to reach the Amalfi Coast by public transport (train + bus).
Getting To The Amalfi Coast From Naples
Almost every trip to the Amalfi Coast will begin in Naples. Getting there can be a bit tricky, but it all depends on your budget and preferences. From there, you have a few different ways to get to your destination. Whether you prefer traveling by ferry, train, bus, or car, there are several options so you can choose the one that works best for you. Each method has its pros and cons, depending on your schedule, budget, and the experience you’re looking for. Below, I’ve outlined the most common ways to reach the Amalfi Coast, so you can choose what works best for you.
If you’re arriving at Naples International Airport or from Napoli Centrale train station, you’ll find that reaching the Amalfi Coast is fairly straightforward. The closest towns, such as Sorrento, are just under an hour’s drive from the airport or station, and there are several transportation options to consider.
From Naples airport, take the Naples Airport Shuttle Bus to Napoli Centrale train station, which is about a 15 min ride and costs €5
⛴️ From Naples to Amalfi Coast: By Ferry
Great news—there is now direct ferry service from Naples to towns along the Amalfi Coast! Depending on the route, the journey can take anywhere from 1 to over 2 hours, with prices starting at €27. Ferries depart from Naples Beverello, which is about a 15-minute drive or a 40-minute walk from Napoli Centrale. You can take a ferry directly from Naples to Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi and Capri. To ensure a hassle-free experience, you can book your tickets in advance through the Ferryhopper website.
If the available ferry times don’t align with your schedule or tickets are sold out for your destination, you can first take a ferry from Naples to Sorrento. This ride takes about 45 minutes and costs around €20. Once in Sorrento, you have a few options to continue your journey. If you’re heading to Positano, Amalfi, or Capri, you can take advantage of the seasonal ferry connections from Sorrento’s harbor. Alternatively, the SITA bus provides a convenient route from Sorrento to Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Praiano. Just keep in mind that Ravello and Praiano do not have ferry ports.
If, for any reason, you can’t catch the ferry, don’t worry—there are other options to reach your destination with a stopover in Sorrento! Read on…
🚆🚌From Naples to Amalfi Coast: Train and Bus
TRAIN: from Napoli Centrale train station, take the Circumvesuviana train (€4) located on the lower level of Naples Train Station to Sorrento. Trains run every half hour. From Sorrento, you can take the ferry or hop on the SITA bus to your destination.
BUS: From Stazione Centrale Napoli, which is right by the Napoli Centrale, FlixBus offers service from Naples to Sorrento (1.10 hr). Prices range from €6-€30. Check schedules and book in advance for the best rates. From Sorrento, you can take the ferry or hop on the SITA bus to your destination. Keep in mind, though, that buses can get quite crowded, and there’s a chance you might have to stand for most of the journey—or not get on at all and have to wait for the next one.
🚐 SHARED SHUTTLE
A shared shuttle is a convenient option to travel from Naples to the Amalfi Coast. With prices starting at around €50 per person, it offers a great price compared to a private taxi while still providing a comfortable and hassle-free ride. Shared shuttles typically operate from Naples International Airport or Napoli Centrale, making it easy to hop on upon arrival. While the journey may take slightly longer due to multiple drop-offs, it’s a reliable and efficient option for those looking to balance cost and convenience without sacrificing comfort.
🚖 From Naples to Amalfi Coast: Private Taxi
If you’re looking for the most convenient and stress-free way to reach the Amalfi Coast, booking a private car transfer is the best option. While this is the most expensive choice, with prices starting at around €150 or more, it offers door-to-door service, comfort, and flexibility, making it ideal for those traveling with luggage or in a group.
Reserving in advance through platforms like Booking.com or Expedia can sometimes offer a better rate (with free cancel option) than hiring a local taxi on the spot. Plus, booking early ensures you have a driver waiting for you upon arrival at Naples International Airport or Napoli Centrale, eliminating the hassle of negotiating fares or waiting in long taxi lines. While pricier than other options, a private transfer allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic drive along the coast without worrying about connections or crowded public transport.
Getting To The Amalfi Coast From Rome
There are several ways to travel from Rome to the Amalfi Coast, and the best choice for you will depend on your preferences for convenience, comfort, time, and budget. Whether you prefer a faster journey or a more scenic experience, you have plenty of options to choose from. One popular option is a combination of train and bus or ferry, which provides an efficient yet picturesque way to reach your destination. Other methods, such as driving or taking a private transfer, offer more flexibility or comfort. Depending on what suits you best, each method has its unique benefits. When you fly into Rome, expect the journey to the Amalfi Coast to take a minimum of four hours, starting from your arrival at the airport or when your train reaches the station. This timeframe assumes all your connections go smoothly. Here are a few options to consider for your trip.
🚆🚌From Rome to Amalfi Coast: Train and Bus
The most common and affordable way to get to the Amalfi Coast from Rome is a combination of train and bus travel.
From Rome airport, take the Leonardo Express shuttle train which will take you directly to the Roma Termini railway station, in about 30 minutes. Next, take a high-speed train (ItaliaRail, Rail.Ninja or Italo) from Roma Termini to Naples, which takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. From Napoli Centrale, you’ll catch a SITA bus or private shuttle to your destination on the coast, such as Positano, Amalfi, or Ravello. The bus ride will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the town.
🚌 From Rome to Amalfi Coast: Direct Train to Salerno and Bus or Ferry
Another option is to take a train from Roma Termini to Salerno, which takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, operated by both Trenitalia and Italotreno,. From Salerno, you can either catch a SITA bus or take a ferry to the coastal towns. The ferry ride has beautiful scenic view of the coastline and is especially enjoyable in the warmer months.
From Rome to Amalfi Coast: Private Car
For a more comfortable and direct option, you can book a private transfer from Rome to the Amalfi Coast. This will take you directly to your final destination in about 3-4 hours, depending on traffic. Although it’s the most expensive option, it offers convenience and flexibility, especially if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage. You can book your private transfer ahead of time via Booking.com or Expedia and get a much cheaper rate than a local taxi, plus there is an option for a free cancelation.
From Rome to Amalfi Coast: Rental Car
If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Rome and make the journey to the Amalfi Coast on your own. The drive takes about 3 hours, depending on traffic. Keep in mind that the coastal roads can be narrow and winding, and parking space in the towns is very limited, so driving might not be the most convenient choice during peak tourist season.
Getting To The Amalfi Coast From Salerno
During the warmer months, ferries operate from Salerno to the Amalfi Coast, offering one of the most scenic and convenient ways to travel. These ferries run most frequently from April through October, providing direct routes to Positano and Amalfi, making them a great option for both extended stays and day trips. During the off-season, ferry services are more limited, so it’s best to check schedules in advance.
Salerno has two main departure points: Molo Concordia, located directly across from the train station, making it ideal for travelers arriving by rail, and Molo Manfredi, which is a bit farther away. If you’re looking for additional ferry options, you can also find routes departing from Sorrento to reach Amalfi and Positano.
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