If you’re wondering how to get from Rome or Naples to Sorrento or the Amalfi Coast, you’re not alone! To make things easier, I’ve compiled some information to help you navigate your journey.
Renting a Car: Proceed with Caution
While it might seem convenient, I wouldn’t recommend driving along the Amalfi Coast. If you’re staying in Sorrento and your accommodation offers parking, it could work, but be warned: exploring Amalfi, Positano, or Ravello can turn into a parking nightmare. The roads are narrow, winding, and often hug steep cliffs. I once saw our bus driver having to back up on a curve just to let another bus through—it was quite nerve racking!
A better approach might be to rent a car to reach Sorrento, then use taxis, buses, or boats to explore Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi.
Getting from Naples to Sorrento
1. Ferry Service
Taking a ferry is a scenic way to travel from Naples to Sorrento, typically taking about 40 minutes and costing around 20 € per person. You can enjoy stunning views of the coastline, but be aware that ferries can occasionally be delayed due to weather.
- Getting to the Port:
- From Naples city center, take a taxi to Molo Beverello Port (10-15 minutes).
- From Naples International Airport, a taxi or shuttle to the port usually takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Once you arrive at the Sorrento train station, you might be within walking distance of your accommodation. If not, you’ll need to grab a taxi to reach your destination.
*Note: Taxi fares can add up, so factor this into your travel budget.
2. Regional Train
The regional train from Naples to Sorrento is another excellent option. The ride takes about an hour and offers a comfortable way to see the countryside. It’s a good option if you’d like to save some money; however, just like the ferry, you may need a taxi to reach your accommodation from the train station, which can add to your costs.
3. Car Service
For door-to-door convenience, I highly recommend a car service like Aequa Limo. It’s stress-free and allows you to enjoy a beautiful drive without worrying about navigation.
- Costs and Travel Time:
| From: Naples (Airport, Train station or Port) | To: Sorrento |
| Mercedes Sedan (2 passengers) | 120 € |
| Mercedes Minivan (6 passengers) | 150 € |
| Mercedes Extra Large Minivan (8 passengers) | 180 € |
| Approx Travel Time | 1h 5m |
Getting from Rome to Sorrento
1. Car Service
Traveling from Rome can be pricier, especially if you’re considering a car service. Here are the details for Aequa Limo transfers:
- Cost and Travel Time:
| From: Rome Fumicino Airport or Roma Termini Train Station | To: Sorrento |
| Mercedes Sedan (2 passengers) | 480 € |
| Mercedes Minivan (6 passengers) | 520 € |
| Mercedes Extra Large Minivan (8 passengers) | 560 € |
| Approximate Travel Time | 3h 15m |
Unless you’re traveling with a group and splitting the cost, this is quite a pricey option.
2. Train
- To travel from Rome to Sorrento by train, start at Roma Termini and take either the Frecciarossa or Italo train to Naples Centrale. This journey usually takes about 1 hour and 10-15 minutes.
- Once you arrive at Naples Centrale, transfer to the Circumvesuviana train, which will take you to Sorrento in approximately 1 hour.
You only need to purchase a single ticket that includes the stop in Naples; there’s no need for separate tickets. After reaching Sorrento, refer to the earlier guidance for getting to your accommodation. You can purchase your train tickets here.
3. Bus
There are direct buses from Rome to Sorrento, which can be a more economical option. This journey usually takes about 3-4 hours. You can catch these buses directly from Rome city center, and some services may operate from the airport as well.
4. Ferry
There’s no direct ferry from Rome to Sorrento. You’ll first need to take a train to Naples and then transfer to a ferry as outlined above.
Getting from Naples to The Amalfi Coast
1. Car Service
Again, Aequa Limo or some other ground transfer service is my recommendation for getting from Naples to Positano or Ravello.
| Naples Airport, Train station or Port to: | Positano | Ravello |
| Mercedes Sedan (2 passengers) | 140 € | 160 € |
| Mercedes Minivan (6 passengers) | 170 € | 190 € |
| Mercedes Extra Large Minivan (8 passengers) | 200 € | 220 € |
| Approx Travel Time | 1h 15m | 1h 20m |
2. Ferry Service to Positano
Taking a ferry from Naples to Positano typically lasts about 50 minutes. Make sure to check with your accommodation about the best way to reach them from the port, as Positano has a lot of stairs, and it can be a bit of a trek.
3. Train and Bus or Taxi Combination
If you prefer traveling by train, it’s important to note that there’s no direct train service to Positano or Ravello. The train from Naples will take you to Sorrento, and then you’ll need to transfer to a bus or taxi:
- To Positano: About 15-20 minutes by bus or taxi from Sorrento.
- To Ravello: Approximately 20-25 minutes by bus or taxi.
While this option is more budget-friendly, the multiple transfers can be time-consuming and may end up costing you the same as a direct car service.
Getting from Rome to The Amalfi Coast
1. Car Service
Aequa Limo transfers Cost and Time:
| Rome Fumicino Airport or Roma Termini Train Station to: | Positano | Ravello |
| Mercedes Sedan (2 passengers) | 520 € | 520 € |
| Mercedes Minivan (6 passengers) | 580 € | 580 € |
| Mercedes Extra Large Minivan (8 passengers) | 640 € | 640 € |
| Approximate Travel Time | 3h 25m | 3h 30m |
2. Train
- To travel from Rome to Sorrento by train, start at Roma Termini and take either the Frecciarossa or Italo train to Naples Centrale. This journey usually takes about 1 hour and 10-15 minutes.
- Once you arrive at Naples Centrale, transfer to the Circumvesuviana train, which will take you to Sorrento in approximately 1 hour.
*Note that from Sorrento you would need to take a bus or taxi to Positano or Ravello, which takes about 20-30 minutes.
3. Direct Bus
For a more economical option, you can take a direct bus from Rome to Positano or Ravello. The journey typically lasts around 4-5 hours. Buses depart from Tiburtina Station several times a day, and ticket prices range from 10-25 €. While this option takes longer, it’s a great budget-friendly way to reach the Amalfi Coast.
4. Ferry
While there isn’t a direct ferry from Rome, you can enjoy a scenic combination of train and ferry travel:
- Start by taking the train from Roma Termini to Naples Centrale (about 1 hour and 10-15 minutes).
- From Naples, take a taxi to the Molo Beverello port (around 10-15 minutes) and catch a ferry to Positano, which typically takes about 50 minutes. Note that to get to Ravello, you would need to take a bus from Positano which takes about 20-30 minutes.
Stopping Over in Pompeii
1. Car Service
While exploring the stunning Amalfi Coast, don’t miss the chance to stop at Pompeii, one of the world’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Located just off the highway, Pompeii is easily accessible as a stopover. Typically, a visit takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Below are the rates for stopovers with Aequa Limo:
- Sedan: 40 euros per hour
- Minivan: 50 euros per hour
- Minivan EL: 60 euros per hour
2. Train
If you’re traveling by train, you can conveniently stop at the Pompei Scavi – Villa dei Misteri station. From there, it’s just a short walk across the street to the entrance of the archaeological site. You can also find that they will store your luggage for a small fee. Typically, a visit takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, giving you ample time to immerse yourself in the history of the ancient city.
Traveling Between the Towns
1. Bus
Traveling between Sorrento, Positano, and Ravello by bus is an economical and scenic way to explore the Amalfi Coast. Here’s how you can navigate this beautiful route:
Sorrento to Positano
- Bus Service: The SITA bus operates regular services between Sorrento and Positano. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Where to Catch the Bus: In Sorrento, you can find the bus station near Piazza Tasso. Look for the SITA buses heading towards Positano.
- Tickets: You can purchase tickets at the bus station or from nearby ticket vendors. I recommend purchasing your ticket before boarding.
Positano to Ravello
- Bus Connections: To travel from Positano to Ravello, you’ll first need to take the SITA bus to Amalfi, which takes about 30 minutes. Once in Amalfi, transfer to another SITA bus heading to Ravello, which is a quick 15-minute ride.
- Transfer Point: The buses to Ravello depart from the Amalfi bus terminal, which is conveniently located near the main square.
- Tickets: As with the previous leg, you can buy tickets at the station or on the bus. Make sure to keep your ticket handy for the transfer.
Ravello to Sorrento
- Return Journey: To return to Sorrento from Ravello, you’ll take the SITA bus back to Amalfi first, and then transfer to a bus heading to Sorrento.
- Timing: Be sure to check the bus schedules, as they can vary depending on the time of year. It’s a good idea to plan your return trip in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Tips for Traveling by Bus
- Check Schedules: The SITA bus schedules can vary, so it’s wise to check them ahead of time for the most accurate information.
- Be Prepared for Crowds: Buses can get crowded, especially in summer, so try to arrive early to secure a seat.
- Enjoy the Views: The bus rides along the coast offer stunning views, so have your camera ready!
By using the bus system, you can easily explore the charming towns of Sorrento, Positano, and Ravello, soaking in the breathtaking scenery along the way!
2. Taxi or Car Service
Below are the prices offered by Aequa Limo for transfers between towns. Taxis are VERY expensive on the Amalfi Coast and will offer similar pricing, so unless you’re willing to splurge, take the bus.
Sorrento to Positano
- Sedan – 100 euros
- Minivan – 125 euros
- Minivan EL – 150 euros
Sorrento to Ravello
- Sedan – 160 euros
- Minivan – 180 euros
- Minivan EL – 200 euros
In summary, the journey to the enchanting Amalfi Coast offers a range of transportation options tailored to your preferences. Whether you opt for the convenience of a car service, the scenic charm of train and bus travel, or the unique experience of a ferry ride, each choice offers stunning landscapes. Embrace the adventure and enjoy every moment of your Amalfi Coast experience!