Amalfi is a picturesque town located on Italy's famous Amalfi Coast in the Campania region. Known for its dramatic cliffs, historic architecture, and vibrant Mediterranean charm, Amalfi attracts tourists from around the world seeking scenic beauty and cultural experiences. This guide covers the best ways to reach Amalfi from major nearby cities and transport hubs.

Whether you are travelling for leisure, a weekend getaway, or a longer vacation, this article will help you navigate your options by train, bus, car, and ferry. Expect detailed travel tips, timing advice, and local insights to make your journey to Amalfi comfortable and enjoyable.

Getting from Major Cities to Amalfi – Main Options

Train

While Amalfi itself does not have a train station, train travel is a practical way to reach nearby hubs like Salerno or Naples before continuing by road or ferry. Italian Railways (Trenitalia) offers frequent services connecting major cities to these stations.

• Nearest stations:

  Salerno and Naples are the closest train stations to Amalfi. Salerno is about 30 km away, while Naples is roughly 60 km distant. Both stations are well connected nationally.

• Travel time and cost:

  From Rome to Salerno, trains take around 2 hours 30 minutes, costing €20–€50 depending on the train type. From Naples, the journey is shorter and cheaper if coming from nearby cities.

• Train types and comfort:

  High-speed Frecciarossa and Intercity trains offer comfortable rides with air conditioning and onboard services. Regional trains are slower but more economical.

• Seasonal tips:

  Book tickets in advance during summer and holidays as trains to Salerno and Naples fill up quickly. Use the Trenitalia website or app for best prices and schedules.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Salerno or Naples stations, you can take buses, ferries, or taxis to Amalfi. Salerno’s ferry terminal offers scenic boat rides, while buses run frequently along the Amalfi Coast road.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Amalfi from nearby cities and towns along the coast. The SITA bus network operates regular routes connecting Amalfi with Salerno, Naples, and other coastal destinations.

• Key routes:

  The SITA bus from Salerno to Amalfi runs every 30 minutes during peak season, covering the 30 km journey in about 1 hour. Naples to Amalfi buses take around 1.5 to 2 hours.

• Ticket cost and purchase:

  Bus tickets typically cost €3–€5. Buy tickets at stations, tobacco shops (tabacchi), or online where available. Validate tickets before boarding to avoid fines.

• Road conditions and views:

  The Amalfi Coast road (SS163) is narrow and winding, offering breathtaking sea views but can be slow during peak tourist season. Morning buses are less crowded and more reliable.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Buses are frequent but can be crowded in summer. They are basic but air-conditioned. Avoid traveling during weekends and holidays when traffic jams are common.

• Challenges:

  Buses may face delays due to traffic and narrow roads. Luggage space is limited, so pack light for bus travel.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Amalfi offers flexibility and the chance to explore the stunning coastline at your own pace. However, the roads are narrow and parking is limited, so it suits confident drivers familiar with Italian driving conditions.

• Main highways:

  From Naples or Salerno, take the A3 motorway towards Vietri sul Mare, then the SS163 Amalfi Coast road. The route covers about 60 km from Naples and 30 km from Salerno.

• Travel time and tolls:

  Driving from Naples takes approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Expect tolls on the A3 motorway costing around €3–€5.

• Parking and traffic:

  Amalfi has limited parking; public lots fill quickly, especially in summer. Consider parking in nearby towns like Maiori or Atrani and walking or taking local buses.

• Scenic but challenging:

  The coastal road is narrow with sharp bends and steep cliffs. Drive cautiously, especially during peak tourist season and bad weather.

• Best time to drive:

  Early mornings or late afternoons avoid heavy traffic. Avoid driving during festivals or weekends when roads are congested.

Ferry / Boat

Ferries and hydrofoils provide a scenic and relaxing way to reach Amalfi, especially from Naples, Salerno, and Positano. This mode is popular during spring and summer months.

• Key ferry routes:

  Regular ferries run from Naples and Salerno to Amalfi, with journey times ranging from 35 minutes (Salerno) to 1.5 hours (Naples).

• Ticket prices and booking:

  Tickets cost between €8 and €15 one way. Purchase at ferry terminals or online via companies like Travelmar or Alilauro.

• Seasonal operation:

  Ferry services operate mainly from April to October. Winter schedules are limited or suspended due to weather.

• Advantages:

  Avoid road traffic and enjoy stunning coastal views from the sea. Ferries dock near Amalfi’s town centre, making last-mile travel easy.

• Considerations:

  Ferries can be canceled in rough seas. Arrive early during peak season to secure seats, especially on weekends and holidays.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers aiming to reach Amalfi smoothly and enjoy their arrival without stress.

• Book your train tickets early:

  Use Trenitalia or Italo websites to reserve seats to Salerno or Naples. Early booking secures better prices and preferred timings.

• Choose your onward transport:

  Decide between bus, ferry, or car rental based on your schedule and comfort preferences. Check SITA bus times or ferry schedules in advance.

• Arrive early at stations or ports:

  Give yourself at least 30 minutes before bus or ferry departures to find platforms and purchase tickets if needed.

• Pack light and prepare for narrow roads:

  Carry manageable luggage for bus or ferry travel. If driving, ensure your vehicle is suitable for winding coastal roads.

• Use local apps for taxis or rides:

  Download apps like MyTaxi or use local taxi stands on arrival for last-mile travel within Amalfi or nearby towns.

• Plan your arrival time:

  Aim to reach Amalfi before sunset to enjoy the town’s beauty and secure accommodation easily.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety on coastal roads:

  Drive cautiously on SS163; watch for scooters and buses. Avoid night driving due to limited street lighting and sharp bends.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and snacks during bus or ferry rides, as stops are limited. Try local lemon-based treats upon arrival.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official websites for trains and ferries to avoid scams. For buses, buy tickets from authorized vendors only.

• Local commute:

  Amalfi is best explored on foot or by local minibuses (navette). Avoid using private cars within the town due to narrow streets.

• Luggage handling:

  If arriving by ferry, be prepared to carry luggage up steps and cobbled streets. Use luggage with wheels suitable for uneven surfaces.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Summer months bring crowds and higher prices. Winter may have limited ferry services and occasional road closures due to weather.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Amalfi is during spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) when weather is pleasant and crowds are thinner. Summer is peak tourist season with hot weather and busy roads.

Winter months are quieter but ferry services may be reduced and some attractions closed. Weather can be rainy, affecting road travel.

• Avoid traveling during August and major Italian holidays to escape heavy traffic and fully booked accommodations.

• Early morning departures help avoid traffic jams on the coastal road and crowded public transport.

• Check weather forecasts, especially in winter, as fog and rain can delay ferries and make driving hazardous.

• Plan ferry trips midweek when services are less crowded and more reliable.

Arrival at Amalfi & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Amalfi, travelers are greeted by charming narrow streets, historic landmarks like the Amalfi Cathedral, and stunning sea views. The town is compact and best explored on foot.

Local transport options include small shuttle buses connecting Amalfi to nearby towns, taxis, and boat tours along the coast. Prepaid taxis are available near ferry docks and bus stops, but booking via local apps or hotel concierge is recommended for fair pricing.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Amalfi depends on your starting point and travel preferences. Taking a train to Salerno followed by a ferry offers a scenic and relaxing journey, avoiding road traffic and providing beautiful coastal views.

For those comfortable driving, self-drive along the Amalfi Coast road offers flexibility but requires caution. Buses provide a budget-friendly option but can be crowded and slower. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Amalfi.