The Amalfi Coast is one of the most picturesque destinations in the Campania region in Southern Italy. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, it was recognized for its natural beauty, historic significance, and dramatic topography.
Whether arriving at Naples Airport or planning a day trip from Naples, there are several ways to reach this stunning coastal region. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to get from Naples to the Amalfi Coast and what to do in and around it.
Travel Options from Naples to the Amalfi Coast
1. Private Transfer
For the most convenient way to travel, consider a private car service. A private driver can pick you up from the Naples Capodichino Airport or your hotel in the city center and take you directly to your final destination on the Amalfi Coast.
This option offers the best combination of comfort and efficiency, especially during peak season when public transportation can be crowded. However, it is one of the pricier options, and you still run into the issue of traffic, especially during peak hours.
2. Rental Car
Renting a car is a good idea if you want flexibility. The main road from Naples to Amalfi, the A3 Highway, offers panoramic views and passes through several coastal towns.
However, be prepared for narrow streets, traffic, and sharp turns, especially around the larger towns like Amalfi and Positano. Parking can be challenging and expensive in the high season.
Also, most cars available to rent in Italy are manual, so you will need to know how to drive that or pay more to upgrade to an automatic vehicle.
3. Amalfi Coast Tours
Joining an Amalfi Coast tour is a great way to travel from Naples to the Amalfi Coast. These tours typically include transportation, often by bus or minivan, directly from Naples to various destinations along the coast.
Guided tours provide a hassle-free travel experience and include insightful commentary about the region's history, culture, and attractions.
This option is ideal for those who prefer an organized itinerary and the convenience of a direct route without navigating public transportation or driving.
The downside to this will be having to abide by the tour's schedule and not being able to freely roam as far or as long as you want compared to arriving on your own.
4. Public Transportation
There is no direct route to the Amalfi Coast from Naples on public transportation; however, there are a few different ways to get there.
- Train and Bus: One of the cheapest options is to take a train from Napoli Centrale Station at Piazza Garibaldi to Sorrento via the EAV srl Circumvesuviana trains.
From Sorrento, you can catch one of the SITA buses to the towns of the Amalfi Coast. You can purchase tickets at the bus station. This combination of bus and train is a great way to experience the local culture.
Travel tip: If Google Maps tells you to get off at a stop other than Sorrento to find the SITA bus, do not listen. Make sure you take the train all the way to Sorrento and wait for the SITA bus there. Most times, the bus fills up at the Sorrento stop, so it will skip all the other bus stops until it gets to the Amalfi Coast.
- High Speed Train: If you prefer a faster journey, high-speed trains from Naples to Salerno on Trenitalia are available. From Salerno, ferries provide convenient access to other coastal towns, offering stunning shoreline views on the way. Train tickets are available online or at the station.
- Ferry Service: In the summer months, taking a ferry from the Port of Naples to Amalfi Town provides a scenic and relaxing travel option. Check schedules and prices in advance, as they vary. Tickets are available for purchase at the ferry terminal.
Purchase your tickets in advance, especially during the high season, to secure the best prices and availability.
Best Option / Method
Ultimately, the best method depends on your schedule, budget, and comfort. If you are wanting luxury and your budget is generous, consider a private transfer.
If your budget is more constrained, consider taking the ferry in the morning for the gorgeous scenic vistas and the train and bus combination in the evening for flexibility on the return times.
Exploring the Amalfi Coast
Once you have arrived, there are many things to do and see on the Amalfi Coast. Here are some of the best places and activities:
1. Positano
Positano is one of the most iconic and picturesque towns on the Amalfi Coast. Known for its steep, narrow streets lined with colorful houses, Positano offers breathtaking coastal views.
Its unique structure and cliffs have earned it the nickname “the vertical city” due to the numerous stairs and pathways that connect the town’s upper streets with the beach below.
Navigating these steps can be quite the workout, so be prepared for a bit of a climb, and remember that it may not be ideal for visitors with mobility concerns.
However, a small local bus service operates within Positano, providing a helpful way to navigate the steep inclines and tight curves.
Keep in mind, though, that this bus line can become crowded, especially later in the day, when both locals and tourists are heading back to their accommodations.
Spiaggia Grande, the main beach, offers a variety of options for visitors. There is a small public section available at no cost, but visitors need to bring their own beach essentials like towels, chairs, and umbrellas.
For added comfort, most of the beach is a beach club where guests can rent chairs and umbrellas for the day.
This club offers amenities like changing rooms, showers, and on-site restaurants, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more relaxing and convenient beach experience.
The town is also famous for its boutique shops, charming cafes, and vibrant nightlife. Do not miss a visit to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its stunning dome made of majolica tiles.
2. Amalfi Town
Amalfi Town is a captivating destination on the Amalfi Coast that combines historical intrigue, scenic beauty, and culinary delights. Its rich maritime history, as Italy’s oldest maritime republic dating back to the 9th century, gives visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s past.
The impressive Amalfi Duomo, or St. Andrew’s Cathedral, features a striking neo-Gothic facade and bronze doors, with a crypt housing the remains of the town's patron saint, St. Andrew. Strolling through Amalfi’s narrow streets, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the blue sea against the cliffs, creating a dramatic backdrop.
The town’s culinary scene is equally enticing, with seafood sourced fresh from local waters and traditional pasta dishes that embody the flavors of southern Italy.
Additional attractions include the Museo di Carta, where you can learn about Amalfi’s historic papermaking, scenic hikes, and the opportunity to try homemade lemon ice cream.
3. Ravello
Ravello is known for its breathtaking views and serene atmosphere, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling towns along the Amalfi Coast.
One of Ravello's highlights is the Villa Cimbrone Gardens, a beautiful estate with lush, meticulously designed gardens and terraces overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
The gardens are filled with statues, sculptures, and shaded pathways, making it a perfect spot for a stroll. The “Terrace of Infinity” is stunning, with views that stretch across the Amalfi coastline.
Ravello also offers quaint cafes, charming shops, and a historic cathedral, adding to its appeal for visitors seeking both beauty and a sense of calm.
4. Scala
Scala is the oldest settlement on the Amalfi coast, founded in the 4th century AD by Roman families - it was once an important part of the Republic of Amalfi. The town’s medieval architecture is a sight to behold, with grand palaces and the 11th-century Cathedral of San Lorenzo standing out as prime examples of its rich history.
Surrounded by lush olive groves and vineyards, Scala is also a haven for nature lovers. The Valle delle Ferriere nature reserve offers scenic trails through chestnut forests and waterfalls, providing a perfect escape into nature.
Food lovers will appreciate the authentic, flavorful dishes made with fresh, local ingredients and the welcoming atmosphere where chefs often engage in personal and meaningful conversations with visitors.
5. Praiano
Praiano is a small town known for its quieter vibe and breathtaking sunsets. Praiano’s charming beaches, like Marina di Praia and Cala della Gavitella, are more intimate and less crowded than other coastal spots, making it ideal for a peaceful day sunbathing by the sea.
The town has a strong artistic tradition, visible in the colorful tiled murals that tell the story of its history through pictures.
Praiano also has scenic hiking trails, including the Path of the Gods, which winds through the Lattari mountains and offers gorgeous panoramic views. Its small-town feel and authentic Italian culture make Praiano a hidden gem worth exploring.
6. Atrani
Atrani is a charming, lesser-known town with an old-world ambiance and a breathtaking coastal setting. As one of the smallest towns in Italy, it is filled with narrow alleys, archways, and small squares that lend it a uniquely authentic character.
The main square, Piazza Umberto I, serves as the heart of Atrani, with cozy cafes and a beautiful fountain where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Just steps away from the square lies Atrani’s beach, a perfect spot for a peaceful day by the sea.
Atrani is also home to the historic Church of Santa Maria del Bando, a 10th-century church perched atop Mount Aureo, offering incredible views of the surroundings.
Additionally, the town is dotted with Baroque churches dating back to the 13th century, showcasing the rich religious and architectural history of the area.
7. Salerno
Salerno is a vibrant port city that serves as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast, offering visitors a mix of historic landmarks, seaside views, and lively Italian culture.
Known for its medieval old town, Salerno’s highlights include the Salerno Cathedral, which dates back to the 11th century and houses the tomb of St. Matthew, and the Lungomare Trieste, a beautiful seaside promenade ideal for a leisurely walk.
The city also has a rich culinary scene, with fresh seafood and local specialties that showcase the flavors of southern Italy.
Salerno also features the lush Villa Comunale di Salerno, a public garden with fountains, shaded paths, and seasonal floral displays that provide a relaxing retreat from the city’s bustling streets.
A short drive from Salerno lies Vietri sul Mare, famously known as the “ceramic capital” of the Amalfi Coast. Here, visitors can explore artisan shops filled with colorful, hand-painted ceramics that reflect local culture and craftsmanship.
Places to Visit along the Way
8. Mount Vesuvius
Explore the volcanic history of the region with a hike up Mount Vesuvius. The views from the summit are spectacular, encompassing the Bay of Naples and the surrounding countryside.
The hike up the Gran Cono Trail is a well-maintained path leading to the crater. It is moderately challenging and has an elevation gain of 597 feet.
At the top, you can peer into the crater of this still-active volcano and learn about its geological significance. It is a good option for those interested in natural history and geology, and there are guided tours available for a more informative experience.
9. Roman Ruins of Pompeii
No trip to the Amalfi Coast would be complete without a day spent exploring the Roman ruins of Pompeii.
This significant historical site provides insight into ancient life, showcasing remarkably preserved structures such as houses, temples, and an amphitheater.
Easily accessible from Naples via the Circumvesuviana train, Pompeii allows visitors to walk through the streets of the ancient city and see the plaster casts of the victims of the volcanic eruption. The site also offers guided tours that provide in-depth historical context.
10. Sorrento
Sorrento is a popular gateway to the Amalfi Coast and offers its own charm. Located on the northern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula, it is known for its beautiful views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
Sorrento is famous for its lemon groves and the production of limoncello, a delicious lemon liqueur. The town's bustling center, Piazza Tasso, is filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes where you can enjoy Italian cuisine and people-watch.
Sorrento also provides convenient ferry connections to nearby islands like Capri, making it a versatile base for exploring southern Italy.
It is about the Journey and the Destination
Your journey to the Amalfi Coast is just the beginning of an unforgettable experience through one of Italy’s most captivating regions.
From the scenic drive or ferry ride that introduces you to sweeping coastal views to the charming streets, lively culture, and iconic landscapes awaiting you, every step adds to the adventure.
Whether you arrive by private transfer, rental car, tour, or public transport, the beauty and unique atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast make the journey as memorable as the destination itself. Prepare to be immersed in an experience that is both breathtaking and timeless.
Have you been to any of these places in the Amalfi Coast? Let me know in the comments below!
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