Your Ultimate Travel Guide
The stunning cliffs, pastel-colored villages, and the sparkling blue of the Mediterranean make the Amalfi Coast the kind of place that dreams are made of. But before you can lose yourself in this coastal paradise, you need to get there! Fortunately, traveling from Naples to the Amalfi Coast is an adventure, with several routes offering convenience, scenery, and Italian charm.
Related publications: Discover the charming Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy
Driving the Amalfi Coast: What to Know Before You Go?
By Sea: Sail in Paradise
Picture yourself gliding across the deep blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the wind in your hair, and the coast’s stunning cliffs slowly coming into view. This is the magic of arriving by ferry or hydrofoil, a convenient and relaxing way to start your Amalfi Coast adventure.
Ferries:
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Naples to Sorrento: 45 minutes of scenic cruising.
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Naples to Amalfi: A relaxing 2-hour journey.
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Naples to Positano: Arrive in about 1.5 hours, with picture-perfect views.
Hydrofoils:
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Naples to Sorrento: Shave off a few minutes with this 40-minute option.
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Naples to Amalfi: Faster, about 1.5 hours.
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Naples to Positano: Get there in 1 hour flat.
Sea Travel Tips:
Book Ahead: Everyone wants to be on the water during the summer, so secure your tickets early.
Mind the Weather: The sea can be unpredictable—check forecasts to avoid delays.
By Road: The Scenic Drive
For those who prefer to be in the driver’s seat—literally—the journey by car offers flexibility and a front-row seat to some of Italy’s most breathtaking views. A road trip allows you to explore at your own pace, making it a perfect choice for independent travelers.
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Route: Take the A3 motorway to Salerno from Naples, then join the legendary SS163 Amalfitana coastal road.
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Distance: About 70 km (43 miles) to Amalfi, taking 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Highlights: The SS163 is famous for its twists and turns and stunning vistas. Every corner offers a new postcard-worthy view!
Driving Tips:
Opt for a Small Car: The roads are narrow, and parking is tight, so go small and nimble.
Start Early: Beat the traffic and find a parking spot with an early start.
Public Transport: Affordable and Easy
If you’d instead relax and enjoy the ride, public transport offers a stress-free way to the coast.
Train to Sorrento:
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Route: Hop on the Circumvesuviana train from Naples Garibaldi Station.
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Duration: About 1 hour and 10 minutes of leisurely travel.
Buses from Sorrento to the Amalfi Coast:
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To Positano: A scenic 1-hour journey.
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To Amalfi: Around 1.5 hours, with stunning views all the way.
Public Transport Tips:
How to get to Sorrento from Naples in Italy
Check Schedules: Avoid long waits by planning your trip around the bus and train timetables.
Beat the Crowds: Buses fill up fast—travel early for a more comfortable ride.
Private Transport: Stress-Free Comfort
If comfort and convenience are your top priorities, private transfers, and taxis are the way to go. Enjoy door-to-door service in an air-conditioned vehicle, or negotiate a fare with a local cab for a stress-free journey that’s all about you.
Private Transfers:
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Luxury on Wheels: Enjoy door-to-door service in an air-conditioned vehicle.
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Worth the Splurge: While more expensive, the comfort and ease are hard to beat.
Taxis:
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Negotiable Rates: Agree on a fare before setting off to avoid surprises.
Excursions: Guided and Self-Guided Adventures
Do you want someone else to take care of the details? Guided tours are perfect for a stress-free day of exploring.
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Guided Tours: Explore the coast’s gems, including Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. Some tours even include boat rides for a unique perspective.
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Self-Guided Excursions: Rent a car or scooter in Sorrento or Capri and set your own pace as you discover the coast’s hidden treasures.