If you’re planning a trip and searching for how to get to Amalfi Coast, you’re not alone. The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful places in Italy, but it’s not the easiest to reach. There is no airport or train station in Amalfi, so you have to combine a few types of transportation to get there. You can use flights, trains, ferries, or private transfers. Once you arrive, you can start exploring the charming towns along the coast.
After you arrive, moving between the towns can be a bit difficult. The roads are narrow, parking is hard to find, and the ferries only run during certain months. In this guide, I will show you the best ways to get to the Amalfi Coast and how to travel around, so you can enjoy your trip without any stress.
This post contains affiliate links where I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Your support helps me continue to provide valuable travel tips and recommendations. Find out more here.
Below are helpful resources to make your travel planning easier and stress-free:
Few more things to note:
If you’re planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast, I recommend saving this post so you can easily find it later. You can also check out my Amalfi Coast and Positano guides for more tips, the best tours, and my favorite things to do in the area.
In this post, I’ll show you the easiest ways to get to the Amalfi Coast. I’ll start with how to get there from Naples, Rome, and Salerno. The closest airport is Naples (Capodichino Airport), but a lot of people fly into Rome because flights are usually cheaper. If you’re coming from cities like Florence or Venice, it’s best to get to Naples or Rome first, either by train or plane. Which option you choose depends on how much time you have, your budget, and where you want to end up.
Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast
Discovering the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful places in Southern Italy. It stretches between the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno, in the Province of Salerno. If you’re coming from Naples, it takes about 1.5 hours to get here. Naples is the closest big city and it’s where most people start their trip to the coast.
The coastline here stretches for about 30 miles (50 km), but getting around is not that easy. The road that links the towns is narrow and full of twists and turns, so driving can be a bit challenging.
If you visit during peak season, be ready for big crowds and long traffic jams. Traveling between towns can get slow and a bit annoying. I recommend coming in spring or early fall. The weather is great, there are fewer tourists, and the roads are much less crowded. Trust me, you’ll want to see as much of this beautiful region as possible. In this guide, I’ll share the best ways to get around so you can make the most of your trip.
Which towns should I visit on the Amalfi Coast?
The Amalfi Coast has a few main towns, each with its own charm, plus lots of smaller villages. Here are the places you shouldn’t miss:
Positano: This is the most iconic town on the coast. It’s famous for its colorful houses built into the cliffs and its lively vibe.
Amalfi: Probably the most famous town here. It has a beautiful old cathedral and charming little streets to explore.
Capri: Capri is the crown jewel of the Amalfi Coast. It’s a stunning island with clear blue water, luxury shops, and the famous Blue Grotto. You can only get here by ferry or private boat.
Ravello: This town sits high above the coast and has amazing views. It’s known for its culture and music festivals. There’s no port, so you’ll need to get here by bus or car.
Praiano is a quieter and more relaxed alternative to Positano. It’s also less expensive, so it’s perfect if you want a peaceful getaway. There’s no ferry port here, so you’ll need to arrive by bus or private car.
Sorrento: This town isn’t officially part of the Amalfi Coast, but it’s the perfect place to start your trip. It’s a convenient hub with lots of transport options.
Main Transport Hubs for the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful places in Italy and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s located in the Campania region, just south of Naples. If you want to get here, the main transport hubs are Naples, Sorrento, and Salerno. No matter if you arrive by plane, train, bus, or ferry, you’ll probably start your journey from one of these towns.
Once you’re on the Amalfi Coast, the easiest way to get around is by using the SITA buses. They run regularly between the towns and are a great way to explore the area. Just keep in mind that the roads are narrow and winding, so the ride can be a bit of an adventure. You can buy bus tickets at most Tabacchi shops (tobacco shops) in the towns.
If you want to visit Positano, Amalfi, or Ravello, the local buses are the easiest way to get around. During the summer, you can also take the ferry for a more relaxed trip along the coast. The views from the water are beautiful, so I recommend trying the ferry at least once if you have time.
Flying To The Amalfi Coast
When you start planning your Amalfi Coast trip, the first thing to figure out is where to fly. There isn’t an airport right on the Amalfi Coast, but the closest one is Naples Capodichino International Airport. It’s about 60 km (37 miles) north of the coast.
Naples is the closest and most convenient airport, but it’s not your only option. If you’re coming from further away, you might find better flight connections into Rome Fiumicino. Just remember, if you land in Rome, it will take you at least four hours to get to the Amalfi Coast by train and bus.
Getting To The Amalfi Coast From Naples
Most trips to the Amalfi Coast start in Naples. Getting there isn’t always straightforward, but you have a few good options depending on your budget and what kind of experience you want. You can travel by ferry, train, bus, or car. Each way has its own vibe and pros and cons. In this post, I’ll share the easiest ways to get from Naples to the Amalfi Coast, so you can pick what suits you best.
If you land at Naples International Airport or arrive at Napoli Centrale train station, getting to the Amalfi Coast is pretty easy. Sorrento is the closest town and it’s less than an hour away by car. There are a few ways to get there, so you can choose what works for you.
From Naples airport, you can hop on the Naples Airport Shuttle Bus to Napoli Centrale train station. The ride takes about 15 minutes and costs €5.
From Naples to Amalfi Coast: By Ferry
There is now a direct ferry from Naples to the Amalfi Coast, which is amazing news if you want to avoid the busy roads. The trip takes between 1 and 2 hours, depending on where you go, and tickets start at €27. Ferries leave from
Naples Beverello port. This is about 15 minutes by car or a 40-minute walk from Napoli Centrale train station. You can get straight to Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, or even Capri by ferry. I recommend booking your tickets ahead of time on the Ferryhopper website, just to make things easier.
If you can’t find a direct ferry that works for you, don’t worry. You can always take a ferry from Naples to Sorrento first. This trip takes about 45 minutes and costs around €20. Once you get to Sorrento, you have a few options. If you want to visit Positano, Amalfi, or Capri, you can catch a seasonal ferry from Sorrento’s harbor. Another option is to take the SITA bus from Sorrento to Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, or Praiano. Just remember, Ravello and Praiano don’t have ferry ports, so the bus is your best bet for those towns.
If you can’t catch the ferry for any reason, don’t stress. There are still other ways to get to your destination with a stop in Sorrento. Keep reading for more details.
From Naples to Amalfi Coast: Train and Bus
TRAIN: If you want to take the train, head to Napoli Centrale and look for the Circumvesuviana line on the lower level. Tickets cost around €4. Trains leave every 30 minutes and will take you straight to Sorrento. Once you arrive, you can either catch the ferry or hop on a SITA bus to get to your final stop.
BUS: You can also take the bus from Stazione Centrale Napoli, which is right next to Napoli Centrale. FlixBus runs this route and the ride takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Tickets usually cost between €6 and €30, but it’s best to book ahead for the lowest price. After you get to Sorrento, you can continue your trip by ferry or SITA bus. Just a heads up: buses can get really crowded, so you might have to stand the whole way or even wait for the next one if it’s full.
From Naples to Amalfi Coast: Shared Shuttle
If you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to get from Naples to the Amalfi Coast, I recommend taking a shared shuttle. Prices usually start at around €50 per person, which is much cheaper than a private taxi. The ride is comfortable and you don’t have to worry about anything. Most shuttles leave from Naples International Airport or Napoli Centrale, so you can just hop on when you arrive. The trip might take a bit longer because of the extra stops, but it’s still a reliable and convenient choice. It’s perfect if you want to save money without giving up comfort.
From Naples to Amalfi Coast: Private Taxi
If you want the easiest and most comfortable way to get to the Amalfi Coast, I recommend booking a private car transfer. This is the priciest option, with prices starting at about €150, but you get door-to-door service and a lot of flexibility. It’s a great choice if you have a lot of luggage or if you’re traveling with friends or family.
If you book in advance on sites like Booking.com or Expedia, you might find a better price and you usually get free cancellation.
Booking ahead also means your driver will be waiting for you at Naples Airport or Napoli Centrale, so you can skip the long taxi lines and avoid haggling over fares. Even though it costs more than other options, a private transfer lets you relax and enjoy the beautiful drive along the coast. You don’t have to worry about crowded buses or making connections.
Getting To The Amalfi Coast From Rome
There are several ways to travel from Rome to the Amalfi Coast. 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 taking a train and then connecting by bus or ferry. It’s 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. This timing starts from when you arrive 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. It will take you directly to the Roma Termini railway station in about 30 minutes. Next, take a high-speed train 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. 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. It’s the most expensive option, but it offers convenience and flexibility. This is especially helpful 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. Booking through these platforms often gets you a cheaper rate and free cancellation.
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.
Need inspiration for your next trip? Check out some of my other posts:
- Perfect one day in POSITANO, the BEST travel guide
- 4 Days Lisbon Itinerary: How to Plan the Perfect Time
- Find the Best Viewpoints in Positano: Ultimate Guide
- 13 Best Places to Visit in Southern Spain You’ll Love
- Epic Paris Itinerary: How to Spend the Perfect Time
- Guide to Beautiful Amalfi Coast Beaches & Beach Clubs
- Ultimate Amalfi Coast Travel Guide You Need for Italy
- Best Paris Cafes: Ultimate and Iconic Shops to Visit
- Amazing Instagram Places in PARIS for the Best Photos
- Perfect One day in Colmar France: How to spend time
- Spend an Amazing 1 day in Strasbourg: Best Itinerary
- Madrid Hotels with Rooftop Pool: Guide to Best Stays
Growing up between Europe and New York, I was always drawn to new places and how they made me feel. After visiting over 25 countries, that love has only grown. I enjoy finding great places to visit, stay, and eat—and I’m someone who really loves planning and staying organized. Through this blog and on Instagram, I share my travel tips, personal experiences, and ready-to-go itineraries to help you plan memorable trips.