Positano is a beautiful coastal town located on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. Rome, the capital city of Italy, lies to the north and is a major starting point for travelers heading to Positano. This route is popular among tourists who want to experience Italy's rich history in Rome and then relax by the stunning Mediterranean sea in Positano.

This guide will help you understand the main ways to travel from Rome to Positano, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will also find step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and advice on what to expect upon arrival in Positano.

Getting from Rome to Positano – Main Options

Train

Taking the train is a popular and comfortable way to travel from Rome to nearby cities before reaching Positano. Since Positano does not have a train station, you will combine train travel with other transport modes.

• Take a train from Roma Termini to Naples Centrale, which takes about 1 hour 10 minutes to 2 hours depending on the train type, with fares ranging from €20 to €50. High-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Italo are frequent and comfortable.

• From Naples Centrale, transfer to a local train to Sorrento, which takes about 1 hour and costs around €4 to €6. The Circumvesuviana train runs regularly but can be crowded during peak hours.

• From Sorrento, take a SITA bus or taxi to Positano, which is about 18 km and takes 40 to 60 minutes depending on traffic. Bus fares are approximately €2 to €4, while taxis cost around €50 to €70.

• Train travel is best for those who prefer scenic routes and want to avoid driving on narrow coastal roads. However, be prepared for transfers and some waiting time between connections.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and budget-friendly way to reach Positano from Rome, though the journey can be long and less comfortable than trains or cars.

• Direct long-distance buses from Rome to Sorrento or Amalfi are limited and may require booking in advance through companies like FlixBus or regional operators.

• From Sorrento or Amalfi, local SITA buses connect to Positano frequently, with travel times of 30 to 60 minutes and fares around €2 to €5.

• The total bus journey from Rome to Positano can take 4.5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and stops, so plan accordingly for comfort and breaks.

• Buses run less frequently during winter months and holidays, so check schedules in advance to avoid long waits.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Rome to Positano gives you flexibility and the chance to explore the scenic Amalfi Coast at your own pace. It is a popular choice for travelers comfortable with Italian roads.

• The distance from Rome to Positano is approximately 275 km, and the drive usually takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on traffic and route.

• Take the A1 Autostrada south from Rome towards Naples, then continue on the A3 motorway before exiting near Castellammare di Stabia to follow the SS145 and SS163 coastal roads to Positano.

• Be prepared for narrow, winding roads along the Amalfi Coast, with limited parking in Positano. Booking parking in advance is recommended to avoid hassles.

• Tolls on highways cost around €20 to €30 one way. Fuel expenses vary but expect roughly €40 to €60 for the trip.

• Driving is best outside peak tourist seasons to avoid heavy traffic and crowded roads, especially during summer weekends and holidays.

Flight

Flying is generally not practical for this route due to the short distance and lack of airports near Positano. However, you can fly to Naples and then continue by road.

• Fly from Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) to Naples International Airport (NAP), which takes about 1 hour. Several airlines operate multiple daily flights with fares ranging from €30 to €100.

• From Naples Airport, take a taxi or Alibus shuttle to Naples Centrale train station or the city center, which takes 15 to 30 minutes and costs around €5 to €10.

• Continue from Naples to Positano by taxi, private transfer, or SITA bus. Taxi fares from Naples Airport to Positano range from €90 to €120, while private transfers can be booked online for convenience.

• Flying saves time on the first leg but involves multiple transfers and higher costs compared to train or car travel.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Rome to Positano, helping you navigate the journey smoothly.

• Book your train or flight tickets in advance through official websites like Trenitalia, Italo, or airline portals to secure the best prices and seats.

• Arrive at Roma Termini station or Rome airport early to allow time for security checks and finding your platform or gate.

• If traveling by train, buy your local Circumvesuviana tickets at Naples station for the Sorrento leg; these trains do not accept advance online booking.

• From Sorrento, check the SITA bus schedule or arrange a taxi to Positano. Buses can get crowded, so arriving early helps secure a seat.

• Carry small change for bus fares and keep your luggage manageable, as buses and trains have limited storage space.

• Upon arrival in Positano, use local shuttle services or walk to your accommodation, as the town has narrow streets and limited vehicle access.

Practical Travel Tips

• Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded trains and buses, as pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas and busy stations.

• Drink bottled water and avoid tap water in Positano to prevent stomach issues; bottled water is widely available in shops and cafes.

• Book tickets online early during summer and holiday seasons to avoid sold-out trains and buses, especially for high-speed trains and popular routes.

• Use local taxis or app-based cabs like Uber where available, but agree on fares beforehand if meters are not used.

• Pack light and use backpacks or soft luggage for easier handling on buses and trains with limited storage.

• During winter, check weather forecasts as coastal fog or rain can delay buses and make driving hazardous on winding roads.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Rome to Positano is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and tourist crowds are smaller. Summers can be hot and crowded, while winters are mild but less lively.

Seasonal weather and festivals affect travel conditions and traffic, so plan accordingly to enjoy a smooth journey.

• Avoid traveling during August and major Italian holidays like Ferragosto when roads and trains are heavily crowded and accommodation prices peak.

• Monsoon rains are not typical here, but heavy summer heat can cause discomfort during long bus or car journeys.

• Early morning departures help avoid traffic jams on the Amalfi Coast roads and ensure better availability of public transport seats.

• Winter months may see occasional fog on coastal roads, so allow extra travel time and check local transport updates.

Arrival at Positano & What to Expect

When you arrive in Positano, you will notice the town’s steep, narrow streets and stunning sea views. The main bus stop is near the town center, and taxis usually wait nearby.

Local transport options include small shuttle buses, taxis, and walking, as private cars have limited access. Many accommodations are located on hillsides, so be prepared for some uphill walking or using elevators where available.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Positano from Rome is by combining a high-speed train to Naples, a local train or bus to Sorrento, and then a bus or taxi to Positano. This method balances speed, comfort, and cost effectively.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking schedules, and preparing for transfers will make your journey smoother. With this guide, you can confidently travel from Rome to Positano and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast.