From Naples to Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi: How to Get to the Coast

Getting to the Amalfi Coast from Naples is easier than you think: train, bus, ferry, car, or private transfer, each option has its pros and cons. This comprehensive guide includes all the options, including costs, travel times, and schedules updated to 2026 , plus tips for choosing the right transportation option for your needs.

Overview: 5 options for the Amalfi Coast

• Circumvesuviana + SITA bus: the cheapest solution (from 4,10 euros for the first leg)
• Ferry or hydrofoil: the most panoramic, directly on the sea (from 12 euros)
• Organized tours: Bus or boat with guide, no worries (from 40 euros)
• Rental car: Maximum freedom, but difficult curves and parking (from 30 euros/day)
• NCC and private transfers: maximum door-to-door comfort (from 80 euros)

By train with the Circumvesuviana: the cheapest option

The Circumvesuviana train (operated by EAV) is the cheapest and most frequent way to reach the Amalfi Coast via Sorrento. The Naples–Sorrento line departs from Naples Garibaldi station (lower level of the Central Station) and takes about 60 minutes to reach Sorrento.

Cost: Single ticket €4,10. Frequency: approximately every 30 minutes, from 5:00 am to 22:30 pm. The train also stops at Ercolano Scavi , Pompei Scavi, and Castellammare di Stabia , which are useful for intermediate stops.

Once in Sorrento, to continue towards Positano and Amalfi, take the SITA bus (see below). Circumvesuviana tickets can be purchased at stations, tobacconists, or via the app: always stamp them before boarding.

SITA Sud Bus: From Sorrento to Positano and Amalfi

The SITA Sud bus connects Sorrento to Positano and Amalfi along the scenic Strada Statale 163 Amalfitana. It's the most popular public transport option for getting between the towns on the Amalfi Coast once you arrive in Sorrento.

Departure: from the Sorrento bus station (next to the Circumvesuviana station). Duration: Sorrento–Positano approximately 40 minutes, Sorrento–Amalfi approximately 70 minutes. Ticket price: €2,50 (valid for 90 minutes, available at tobacconists and bars before departure).

In the summer, the frequency is increased with extra trips. The bus is recommended for the breathtaking coastal views, but beware of motion sickness on the hairpin bends: if you suffer from motion sickness, choose the ferry. Tickets must be purchased before boarding; they are not sold on board.

Ferries and hydrofoils: the sea route to the Amalfi Coast

The ferry or hydrofoil is the most scenic way to reach Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi. Departures are from Molo Beverello (Naples port) and, in the summer, also from Porta di Massa.

Summer 2026 lines and timetables

Naples – Sorrento: NLG and Caremar hydrofoils, 40 minutes, approximately €12–15. Naples – Positano: NLG hydrofoils, 70 minutes, approximately €18–22. Naples – Amalfi: NLG hydrofoils, 90 minutes, approximately €20–25. Naples – Salerno: ferries and hydrofoils, 60 minutes, approximately €10–13 (from Salerno, then a SITA bus to Amalfi).

During high season (July–August), the routes are more frequent, but seats must be booked in advance. The boat trip offers a unique perspective of the Amalfi Coast, with its colorful houses perched on the cliffs: it's worth every euro more than the train.

Organized tours by boat or bus

Numerous agencies in Naples offer daily coach or boat tours of the Amalfi Coast. Boat tours typically include swimming stops at the Furore Fjord , the Emerald Grotto , and the Risorgimento . Coach tours include guided tours of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.

Approximate costs: boat tour €50-80 per person, bus tour €40-60 per person. Online booking is recommended during the summer months. The advantage of tours is the zero logistics: hotel pickup, guide, and time management; the drawback is the rigid schedule.

Rental cars: freedom and flexibility

Renting a car at the airport or in the city offers maximum flexibility. From Naples, take the A3 Naples–Salerno motorway, exit at Castellammare di Stabia , and then the SS 145 Sorrentina to Sorrento, or continue on the SS 163 Amalfitana to Positano and Amalfi.

Rental cost: €30-50 per day. Beware: the SS 163 is narrow and full of hairpin bends, parking in Positano and Amalfi is expensive (€4-6/hour), and traffic is heavy in summer. Renting a car is recommended only if you have experience driving on coastal roads: it's an excellent option in the low season, but in August it can become a nightmare.

NCC and private transfers: maximum comfort

Chauffeur-driven car rental (NCC) is the most convenient solution for those arriving at the airport or train station and wanting to reach the Amalfi Coast directly and hassle-free. Rates start from €80-120 for a car for up to four people to Sorrento or Positano, with higher prices for Amalfi and Ravello. The service includes personalized pick-up, luggage assistance, and flexible schedules.

Which vehicle should you choose? Practical advice

Couples and solo backpackers: Circumvesuviana train + SITA bus, economical and adventurous. Families with children: ferry to Positano (avoid the hairpin bends), or private car rental if budget allows. Groups: tour bus or guided tour. Packing light: hydrofoil Naples–Positano, the best time/view ratio. Experienced drivers: rental car, but only if you're confident navigating the Amalfi Coast's curves.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Naples–Amalfi Coast trip

What's the cheapest way to get from Naples to Sorrento?

The Circumvesuviana is the cheapest option: €4,10 for a journey of about 60 minutes, with departures every half hour from Naples Garibaldi.

How much does the ferry from Naples to Positano cost?

The Naples–Positano hydrofoil costs about 18–22 euros and takes 70 minutes. It's the recommended option for the views and lack of traffic.

Where can I buy SITA bus tickets for the Amalfi Coast?

SITA tickets can be purchased at tobacconists, authorized bars, and newsstands before departure. They cannot be purchased on board.

Is it possible to visit the Amalfi Coast in a day from Naples?

Yes, with an early departure (7:00–8:00 AM), you can visit Positano and Amalfi in one day with the Circumvesuviana train + SITA bus combination. Organized tours are a great option to avoid worrying about connections.

Is it better to take the train or the ferry to the Amalfi Coast?

The ferry is more scenic and faster, but more expensive. The train is cheaper, but from Sorrento you must continue by bus. The choice depends on your budget and travel preferences.

What is the best time to visit the Amalfi Coast?

May-June and September-October offer perfect weather and fewer crowds. July-August is beautiful but very crowded: during these periods, book ferries and restaurants well in advance.

For all the information on getting around Naples, check out our complete guide to public transportation . For itineraries, read our guide to day trips to the Amalfi Coast.