In short
From the Naples area there are four ways to reach the Amalfi Coast: bus (to Sorrento or Salerno, then a local bus), the Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento plus a bus, a seasonal ferry or hydrofoil, or by car. Public transport takes one or two changes and 2 to 3 hours; a private transfer goes door to door in about 1 hour 20–30 minutes, without traffic. Driving yourself is possible, but the road is narrow, parking is scarce and expensive, and at certain times alternate number plate rules apply.
- Private transfer
- about 1 h 20–30, door to door
- Bus + bus
- 1–2 changes
- Train + bus
- Circumvesuviana to Sorrento
- By sea
- seasonal, weather-dependent
The options compared
| Mode | Changes | With luggage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private NCC transfer | None | Easy | Agreed price, door to door |
| Airport–Sorrento bus + local bus | 1 | Possible | Local buses often full in summer |
| Circumvesuviana + local bus | 1–2 | Awkward | Crowded local train |
| Hydrofoil/ferry | 1–2 | Possible | Seasonal, may be cancelled in rough seas |
| Rental car | None | Easy | Difficult road, scarce parking, alternate plates |
Public transport timetables, fares and routes change with the seasons: check them on the transport companies’ websites before you travel.
By bus
A direct bus runs from Naples Airport to Sorrento. From Sorrento, scheduled buses continue along the Amalfi Coast road to Positano and Amalfi; on the other side of the coast, buses leave from Salerno. It is the cheapest option, but in high season local buses fill up quickly and you won’t always get on the first one.
By train
The Circumvesuviana connects Naples with Pompeii and Sorrento, then you continue by bus. On the Salerno side, you take the train to Salerno and then a bus or ferry. It works well for light travellers; with large suitcases it is hard work.
By sea
Between spring and autumn there are boat connections to Positano and Amalfi, mainly from Salerno and Sorrento, and some sailings from Naples. They are scenic and fast, but weather-dependent: in rough seas they can be cancelled.
By car: rental or with a driver
The Amalfi Coast road is one of the most beautiful in Italy and also one of the most demanding: two narrow lanes, blind bends, oncoming buses. Parking in the towns is scarce and very expensive in summer, and at certain times alternate number plate rules apply to non-residents.
With an NCC private driver that is not a problem: I know the roads, I know where to stop, and NCC vehicles can drive even on alternate-plate days.
Frequently asked questions
What is the fastest way to get to the Amalfi Coast from Naples Airport?
A private transfer: about 1 hour 20 minutes to Positano and 1 hour 30 to Amalfi, without traffic and with no changes.
Is there a train to the Amalfi Coast?
No, the railway does not reach the Amalfi Coast. You take the train to Sorrento or Salerno and continue by bus or by sea.
Is it worth renting a car for the Amalfi Coast?
Only if you are comfortable on narrow, busy roads. Scarce parking and alternate number plate rules make it complicated in high season.
Is it better to arrive from Naples or from Salerno?
For Positano and Sorrento, Naples is better; for Amalfi, Ravello, Maiori and Minori, Salerno is convenient too.
Updated October 2026 · Written by Carlo Scarpato, licensed NCC private driver in Campania since 2016.