Both Rome and Positano are exceptionally popular tourist destinations in Italy, and the perfect combination for your Italian vacation if you want a taste of everything: the uber-historic, bustling city, and the picturesque coastal town. Italy is a fantastic place to experience rich culture, beautiful architecture, and amazing food, and these destinations offer their own take on each.
Between Rome and Positano are some exceptional sights, including the medieval Anagni Cathedral, the wondrous Pastena Caves, the breathtaking Abbey of Monte Cassino and Royal Palace of Caserta, and the infamous Pompeii and Herculaneum Archaeological sites. However, the only way to experience these while you travel from Romes to Positano is to book a private car transfer with Daytrip.
How to get from Rome to Positano
If you’re travelling from Rome to Positano, you have several travel options. For travellers on a budget, the bus is the cheapest way to travel from Rome to Positano. The fastest way to travel from Rome to Positano is by train or car. A car with a private driver is of course the best way to travel from Rome to Positano since it’s so convenient.
Update June 2022: the local government has introduced an alternating number plate system limiting the number of rental cars that can access the towns on the Amalfi Coast.
During peak hours in peak season only vehicles with number plates ending in an odd number can use the road on odd-numbered dates, while those with plates ending in an even number can drive it on even-numbered dates. These rules apply between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from April 24 to May 2, weekends from June 15 to September 30, every day in August, and Holy Week around Easter.
These new rules mean the already crowded and somewhat complicated public transit options are going to get even more crowded, and add another layer of logistics to renting a car – you’ll need to not only get plates that line up with your arrival date, but you can’t stay for an odd number of days. If you arrive on an even date, you can only leave on an even date! Taxis and private car services are exempt from these limitations.
Rome to Positano by train
To travel from Rome to Positano by train, you need to get to the Rome Termini station and purchase a ticket to Vietri sul Mare-Amalfi, or you can buy your tickets in advance online. The earliest train is at 5:31 AM, and the last train is at 11:58 PM, with trains departing at least twice per hour. The train from Rome to Positano is operated by Trenitalia and Frecciarossa, with train tickets from Rome to Positano costing €16-47 on average for the 4 hour trip. The distance from Rome to Positano is about 274 kilometers. It’s important to note that there are no direct trains to Positano, and all trains will change in Naples, Salerno, or both. Vietri sul Mare is the closest one can get to Positano, from which you would need to take a local bus. Alternatively, you can book a train ticket from Rome Termini station to Sorrento (with a transfer in Naples), and take a car or bus from there to Positano. With the new restrictions on rental cars, expect the train and bus to sell out.
Trains have bathrooms on board, and usually offer a dining car.
Train intervals
2 per hour
First/Last Departure
5:31 AM/11:58 PM
Avg. Price
€16-47
Distance
~275 km
Duration
~4 hours
Operating Companies
Trenitalia, Frecciarossa
Rome to Positano by bus
To travel from Rome to Positano by bus is very similar – as there are no direct public transit avenues to the town of Positano, you will need to start at Rome Tiburtina station and purchase tickets to Salerno, either Parco Pinocchio or Bar Mary stations. From there, you would need to arrange auto transport to Positano. While you can buy your ticket at the station, it’s best to purchase them in advance. The earliest bus is at 2:15 PM, and the last bus is at 8:30 PM, with 2 busses leaving every 2 hours. The bus from Rome to Positano (Salerno) is run by Leonetti Bus and Express, with bus tickets from Rome to Positano costing €14 for the 3 hour trip. The distance from Rome to Positano is about 270 kilometers. With the new restrictions on rental cars, expect the bus to sell out.
Time intervals
Every 2 hours
First/Last Departure
2:15 PM/ 8:30 PM
Avg. Price
€14
Distance
~270 km
Duration
~3 hr
Operating Companies
Leonetti Bus, Express
Rome to Positano by Private Car Transfer
For speed and convenience, a private car transfer with Daytrip is the best way to travel from Rome to Positano. Private car services like Daytrip are exempt from the new number plate restrictions, meaning you don’t have to worry about crowds and sold out tickets. You will be picked up at your accommodation, and the driver will take care of your luggage. You’ll then be able to enjoy door-to-door service to your accommodation in Positano, and can even add sightseeing stops on the way!
One fundamental part of your well-deserved holiday in the Amalfi Coast is deciding how to get there. If you’re planning on enjoying the many culinary delights in Naples first, or you want to go right from the airport, you’re going to want to plan your trip from Naples to Sorrento ahead of time.
Update June 2022: the Amalfi government has introduced an alternating number plate system limiting the number of rental cars that can access the towns on the Amalfi Coast.
During peak hours in peak season only vehicles with number plates ending in an odd number can use the road on odd-numbered dates, while those with plates ending in an even number can drive it on even-numbered dates. These rules apply between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from April 24 to May 2, weekends from June 15 to September 30, every day in August, and Holy Week around Easter.
While these rules won’t affect you much if you plan on only staying in Sorrento, they do increase demand for public transport, so expect more crowds and sold out tickets during peak season.
Naples to Sorrento Train
Travelling from Naples to Sorrento by train is an economic, popular way among budget travelers. The Circumvesuviana train heads to Sorrento every half hour from 6 AM to 11 PM in the high season, and a bit less frequently in off seasons. A one way trip takes an hour and ten minutes; you can purchase your ticket at the station for 3.60 EUR. Keep in mind that these tickets can’t be purchased in advance, so these trains tend to be overcrowded or sold out.
It’s worth spending the extra 4 euros for the Campania Express, which makes the trip in under an hour. This special tourist line has guaranteed seats, air conditioning, and luggage storage. And you can buy these tickets online at the EAV Campania website. These trains run less frequently than the Circumvesuviana and the schedule depends on the season, so be sure to check the time tables in advance.
Naples to Sorrento Bus
You have two options for for travelling from Naples to Sorrento by bus. Enjoytravelling offers direct service from Naples to Sorrento with bus pickup points in Naples at Napoli Centrale Station, Piazza G. Garibaldi, and even directly from the Naples Airport. The busses depart every 2-3 hours from 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM, and the trip from Naples to Sorrento lasts 1.5 hours. The bus fare is 35EUR, making this an expensive option if you’re trevelling in a group.
However, if you would like to travel from Naples Airport to Sorrento right as you arrive, you can use the Curreri Viaggi shuttle service, which departs from the P1 parking area at the Naples Airport every 2 hours from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM everyday except for Christmas and New Years. The shuttle costs 10EUR and will bring you to the main station in Sorrento in an hour and 15 minutes. You’ll need to purchase your ticket through their website in advance to ensure a seat.
Naples to Sorrento Ferry
Seasick or sea-view? If you don’t mind carrying your luggage around, you can jump into a ferry from Naples to Sorrento and enjoy being in the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. For just 13.10 EUR you can use Ailauro Hydrofoil to take you from the Moro Beverello Pier in Naples to Sorrento. The schedule varies according to the season, so it’s better to check their website before your trip. The hydrofoil can be quite fast so be ready for a bumpy ride.
Naples to Sorrento Taxi
Hiring a taxi from Naples to Sorrento is the most popular choice for travelers.
Your best option would be to book your private car transport in advance using a trusted service like Daytrip. The drive takes about an hour and ten minutes, meaning this isn’t just the most convenient option, it’s also the fastest. If you book a private car transfer with Daytrip from Naples to Sorrento, you will be picked up at your accommodation and the driver will take care of your luggage. No crowded trains or sea sickness necessary! You’ll then be able to enjoy door-to-door service to your accommodation in Sorrento, and can even add sightseeing stops along the way like Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, Villa di Poppea and Herculaneum Archaeological Area.
So you’re going on your dream holiday to Positano, and you’ve already planned what to do on the Amalfi Coast. The only problem is, how do you get to the Amalfi Coast? If you’re only thinking about it as your plane has touched down in Naples, then you’ve left it too late. Take a look at the following guide on how to get from Naples to Positano so that you know the pros and cons of each method of transport. That way you’ll be able to figure out which one suits you best and enjoy your holiday in one of the Amalfi Coast’s most famous destinations.
Update June 2022: the local government has introduced an alternating number plate system limiting the number of rental cars that can access the towns on the Amalfi Coast.
During peak hours in peak season only vehicles with number plates ending in an odd number can use the road on odd-numbered dates, while those with plates ending in an even number can drive it on even-numbered dates.These rules apply between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from April 24 to May 2, weekends from June 15 to September 30, every day in August, and Holy Week around Easter.
These new rules mean the already crowded and somewhat complicated public transit options are going to get even more crowded, and add another layer of logistics to renting a car – you’ll need to not only get plates that line up with your arrival date, but you can’t stay for an odd number of days. If you arrive on an even date, you can only leave on an even date! Taxis and car services are exempt from these limitations.
Naples to Positano Train
There is no direct train from Naples to Positano, and in fact, there is no train station in Positano (more on this later). If you want to take a train, you can only travel from Napoli Centrale to Sorrento, and then you need to travel from Sorrento to Positano by other means. The Circumvesuviana train heads to Sorrento every half hour from 6 AM to 11 PM in the high season, and a bit less frequently in off seasons. A one way trip takes an hour and ten minutes; you can purchase your ticket at the station for 3.10 EUR. Keep in mind that these tickets can’t be purchased in advance, so these trains tend to be overcrowded or sold out. It’s worth spending the extra 4 euros for the Campania Express, which makes the trip from Naples to Sorrento in under an hour. This special tourist line has guaranteed seats, air conditioning, and luggage storage. And you can buy these tickets online at the EAV Campania website. These trains run less frequently than the Circumvesuviana and the schedule depends on the season, so be sure to check the time tables in advance. With the limitations on rental cars, expect train tickets to sell out, so if you’re visiting during peak season, book tickets for the Campania Express in as far in advance as possible!
For the complete Naples to Sorrento Train Schedule click here
Naples to Positano Bus
Like the train, there is also no direct bus service from Naples to Positano – you can only take a bus from Naples to Sorrento, and then need to make other arrangements. Enjoytravelling offers direct service from Naples to Sorrento with bus pickup points in Naples at Napoli Centrale Station, Piazza G. Garibaldi, and even directly from the Naples Airport. The busses depart every 2-3 hours from 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM, and the trip from Naples to Sorrento lasts 1.5 hours. The Naples to Sorrento bus fare is 35EUR, making this an expensive option if you’re trevelling in a group.
However, if you would like to travel from Naples Airport to Sorrento right as you arrive, you can use the Curreri Viaggi shuttle service, which departs from the P1 parking area at the Naples Airport every 2 hours from 9:00 AM to 7:30 PM everyday except for Christmas and New Years. The shuttle costs 10EUR and will bring you to the main station in Sorrento in an hour and 15 minutes. You’ll need to purchase your ticket through their website in advance to ensure a seat, especially with the increased demand they’re likely to see because of the new number plate system.
Click here for the complete Naples to Sorrento Bus Schedule
Naples to Positano Ferry
If you’re anxious to be in the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, you may decide to take a ferry from Naples to Sorrento. The Ailauro Hydrofoil will take you from the Moro Beverello Pier in Naples to Sorrento for just 13.10 EUR. The Hyrdofoil runs regularly between Naples to Sorrento but the schedule is dependent on the season, so make sure you check their website before the trip. Be aware that the speediness of this transfer won’t allow you much time for picture taking and it can be a bit of a bumpy ride. Since the new Amalfi Coast number plate system will drive up demand for all public transport options, book tickets in as far in advance as possible.
Sorrento to Positano
Once you reach Sorrento, you’re halfway done with your trip from Naples to Positano! Now you’re just a short bus or ferry ride away! The Sita bus company runs from Sorrento Railway Station along the coast, all the way to Amalfi with stops in Positano and Praiano. The bus runs daily, in the peak season leaving every 30 minutes from 6:30 AM until 7:30 PM and takes about 45 minutes, give or take. Tickets cost between 10 and 12 EUR and can be purchased at local cigarette shops, newspaper stands, or the Circumvesuviana station. However, a ticket doesn’t necessarily guarantee you a seat as these busses are often extremely sold out. With the new number plate system, expect the bus to be nearly impossible to get.
Ferries from Sorrento to Positano are only available in the summer and will set you back about 20 EUR. You can buy your ticket at the ticket office of the Sorrento port, or you can book tickets online to avoid long lines and waiting time. Since the new limitations on rental car have driven up demand for the ferry even more, you likely won’t get a ticket unless you book far in advance.
If you want to take a train, you can only travel from Napoli Centrale to Sorrento, and then you need to travel from Sorrento to Positano by other means. The Circumvesuviana train heads to Sorrento every half hour from 6 AM to 11 PM in the high season, and a bit less frequently in off seasons. A one way trip takes an hour and ten minutes; you can purchase your ticket at the station for 3.10 EUR. Keep in mind that these tickets can’t be purchased in advance, so these trains tend to be overcrowded or sold out. It’s worth spending the extra 4 euros for the Campania Express, which makes the trip from Naples to Sorrento in under an hour. This special tourist line has guaranteed seats, air conditioning, and luggage storage. And you can buy these tickets online at the EAV Campania website. These trains run less frequently than the Circumvesuviana and the schedule depends on the season, so be sure to check the time tables in advance.
Naples to Positano Taxi
If reading through the many steps of travelling from Naples to Positano by public transport has you stressed out, don’t worry! Hiring a taxi from Naples to Positano is the most popular choice for travelers. You don’t need to worry about crowds or limitations caused by the new number plate system as taxis and car services are exempt!
Your best option would be to book your private car transport in advance using a trusted service like Daytrip. The drive takes about an hour and twenty minutes, meaning this isn’t just the most convenient option, it’s also the fastest. If you book a private car transfer with Daytrip from Naples to Positano, you will be picked up at your accommodation and the driver will take care of your luggage. No crowded trains or sea sickness necessary! You’ll then be able to enjoy door-to-door service to your accommodation in Positano, and can even add sightseeing stops along the way! If you’re travelling from Rome, you can also travel directly from Rome to Positano!
Naples to Positano Shuttle
If you’re looking to save time and money, a shared shuttle from Naples to Positano with a service like Daytrip Pool is your best option. Riding with other travellers in a 7-passenger van really cuts down on the cost, and you still get perks like door-to-door service and help with your luggage. While you only spend about an hour and twenty minutes getting from city to city, it’s not quite as fast as a private transfer as other passengers also need to get picked up and dropped off. But it still beats navigating Italy’s public transport system and lugging your bags around, especially with the increased crowds from the number plate system! Plus, Daytrip Pool even offers a shared shuttle service with a sightseeing stop in Pompeii (entry tickets not included)!
Naples to Positano Drive
Hire cars are another way some people like to get around, but there are a few things you’re going to want to think about beforehand if you’re going to enjoy the experience.
First of all, if you’re visiting during peak season, the number plate system means you can only stay for an even number of days (if you arrive on August 6 you can only leave on an even date) and you’ll need to get a rental car with plates that line up with your visit. And you’re going to want to take a sat nav with you. This could either be a standalone device such as a TomTom, or it could be the one built into your phone. It doesn’t really matter which one you choose, but you’re going to want to ensure that you can still access your mobile data allowance now that you’re abroad. That way you won’t have to try and figure out what the road signs mean whilst you get used to driving in a new country.
The other thing you’re going to need to read up on are the local customs and etiquettes that Italian drivers adhere to. They’re going to be largely the same as back home, but it never hurts to travel well-prepared. It’s what will ensure you have a relaxing and calm drive, instead of one that’s confusing and potentially rather stressful.
When you want to know how to get to the Amalfi Coast without the hassle and headaches that come with international travel, you need to start planning your trip early. To ensure you can enjoy every moment of your stay from the minute you leave home take a look at the following advice. That way you’ll be able to get to your home away from home rested and relaxed, and then head out for some authentic Italian cuisine in the evening.
Choosing an airport to make your travelling easier
The beauty of choosing your perfect Amalfi Coast airport is that it’s nice and simple. Napoli is by far the closest international airport, and at just over a 1 hour drive away it’s practical and easily accessible.
You’ll find flights from most major UK airports that go direct to either Napoli or connecting via Rome. If you end up connecting in Rome then you will want to ensure you have plenty of time to make it to your new gate, and double check with your airline at the check-in desk whether or not they will be automatically transferring your hold luggage onto the next plane. The same applies if you’re travelling from further afield from airports such as SFO or JFK in the US.
Is there an airport in the Amalfi Coast itself?
The Amalfi Coast is a secluded coastal area that harks back to the old Italy that people have been falling in love with for centuries now. It’s easily accessible from Napoli in little over an hour by car, and you won’t have the disruption and noise pollution caused by planes taking off and landing at all hours of the day.
Whilst you might be thinking of opting for a resort or tourist destination with a designated airport on its doorstep, remember how little it will matter to you once you arrive at your final destination. The calm and peaceful setting of the Amalfi Coast is ideal if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and that means you’ll have to drive to the nearby city of Napoli to reach one.
What to remember to take with you to the airport
Travelling by air is commonplace these days so the chances are you’ve done it many times before. If you want to be able to ensure your holiday goes off without a hitch, then it’s always worth reminding yourself of all he essentials you need the night before. A family-sized passport holder is ideal if you’re travelling with kids as it will allow you to keep those all-important documents in one place.
If you have taken out third party travel insurance then it never hurts to take a copy of your policy with you should anything go wrong at the airport. You’ll also want to pack a little bit of food and drink to eat. This is especially true when exiting the airport in Naples. If you’re not used to the sunnier climate then a bottle of cold water in the taxi to the Amalfi Coast will go down well.
Getting from the airport to your final destination
Towns like Positano and Sorrento are between 60 and 75 minutes away by road which makes catching a taxi with a little help from Daytrip.com the ideal way to complete your journey. Landing in the rush hour traffic will slow you down somewhat, so you might want to think about your flight times prior to booking. If you’re a little more adventurous and feel like exploring further afield during your stay, then you might also consider getting a hire car.
Occasionally people opt to land in Rome and make a road trip the final part of their journey. If this is what you have in mind then go for it, but the distances involved might mean that this is not a journey you want to try and tackle if you have kids with you.
Booking your holiday to the Amalfi Coast is certainly an exciting time — one you’ve waited all year for in fact. The only problem now is that you’ve booked your flights, secured your dream accommodation, and you’re still none the wiser about how to get from one to the other. It’s a common problem every holiday maker will face at one point in their lives, but it’s one that can be easily tackled with a little local knowledge, and plenty of planning and research.
Have a read of the following hints and tips, and you’ll be well equipped to get from A to B in no time at all once you land.
Naples is the nearest major city to the Amalfi Coast, and it’s home to a major international airportwhich will make your travel arrangements that little bit easier. Flights take off and leave from the airport every couple of minutes to every corner of Europe, the US, the UK, Canada, and even as far afield as Australia and New Zealand.
If you have to make a connecting flight on the European mainland then it is always worth checking that your airline will automatically transfer your bags onto your final flight to avoid any confusion. You’ll also want to think about travel insurance just incase you miss the connecting flight for any reason. It can easily save you a lot of headaches and unnecessary expenditure before you’ve even landed.
Naples to Positano
There is no direct train from Naples to Positano, and in fact, there is no train station in Positano. If you want to take a train, you can only travel from Napoli Centrale to Sorrento, and then you need to travel from Sorrento to Positano by other means. The easiest and only direct way to get from Naples to Positano is by private car transfer. Check our detailed guide on how to get from Naples to Positano.
Naples to Sorrento
Travelling from Naples to Sorrento by train is an economic, popular way among budget travelers. Alternatively, you can also take a shuttle bus either from the airport or the city. If you’re anxious to be in the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, you may decide to take a ferry from Naples to Sorrento. However, a more convenient way is to book a quick private car transfer. Check our detailed guide on how to get from Naples to Sorrento.
Rome to the Amalfi Coast
If you’re in Rome (or get a better flight to Italy landing in Rome), it’s also possible to travel directly from Rome to Positano or other towns on the Amalfi Coast. It’s about a 3.5 hour drive from Rome to the Amalfi Coast, and while many people do fly from Rome to Naples, with the layover and extra flight time, there’s not much of a difference in total travel time between driving and flying.
The one thing to look out for if you decide to drive is Rome’s infamous rush hour traffic. This can turn a scenic 3.5 hour drive into hours of gridlock and delays. So plan your trip schedule in advance, and if it looks like you might land during rush hour, especially if you’re travelling with kids, then a connecting flight to Naples might be the better option as it will be much more predictable in terms of the time it takes to finish your journey.
Taxis are often the easiest way to get to the Coast
Once you get to Naples you can either rent a car, use public transport, or pay for a private car transfer. There are plenty of car rental options that you might want to consider, and they could come in handy if you plan to explore a wider part of the local area throughout the rest of your stay.
If however you’re tired and just want to get to your room in time for dinner, then you will probably be best advised to travel by taxi. Compare fares before you leave online so that you know what to expect, and take more than enough Euros to cover your trip. That way you won’t fall foul of any unforeseen problems with using your card abroad.
Driving the Amalfi Coast enables you to see all the stops along the way
Once you arrive at the Coast you might want to get out and explore the place before too long. Driving the Coast only takes an hour or two from end to end, and it’s a great way of seeing how the various different towns, cities, and villages have popped up over the centuries. You never know, you might find your ideal destination for your return trip to the Amalfi Coast next summer.
