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Getting Around Amalfi

Getting Around Amalfi

Amalfi Campania, Italy Travel Guide

Public Transit Systems

SITA Sud Buses are the main public bus service connecting towns along the Amalfi Coast. They are large, often blue, coaches that navigate the winding SS163 coastal road. They connect Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, Ravello (via a connection in Amalfi), and Salerno. Buses can be crowded, and journeys can be slow due to traffic.

Ferries are useful for inter-town travel and reaching nearby islands like Capri. They present scenic views of the coastline from the water and assist in avoiding road traffic. This is often the preferred method for getting between popular towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Salerno. The Circumvesuviana train connects Naples to Sorrento, an important link for travelers from Naples or visiting archaeological sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Transit Options Summary

  • SITA Sud Buses: Main public bus service connecting coastal towns.
  • Ferries: Scenic inter-town travel, avoids road traffic, seasonal.
  • Circumvesuviana Train: Connects Naples to Sorrento, serving archaeological sites.
  • Unico Campania Tickets: Integrated passes cover bus and train in the wider Campania region for specific periods.

Ticketing System

Purchase bus tickets BEFORE boarding from "Tabacchi" or newsstands. Validate immediately on board. Ferry tickets at port offices or online. Train tickets at stations.

Hours & Frequency

Buses operate early morning to late evening, less frequent on Sundays. Ferries are seasonal (April-Oct), varying frequency. Circumvesuviana runs frequently but less on weekends.

Accessibility

Public transportation has challenges for travelers with mobility needs; many buses lack ramps, ferries have steps, and older train lines are not fully accessible.

Tips for Navigating Public Transit

Efficiency & Planning
  • Buy tickets in advance for buses and popular ferry routes in high season.
  • Arrive early for buses; they fill quickly, especially for popular routes and peak times. Buses often run late due to traffic, so factor this into your schedule.
  • Utilize ferries when possible; they avoid road traffic and present scenic views. This is often the fastest and most pleasant way to move between coastal towns.
Staying Informed
  • Always verify the latest schedules locally or online, as they change.
  • Understand zone-based bus fares to purchase the correct ticket for your destination.
  • Be prepared for crowded conditions, especially during peak seasons and on popular routes.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Typically white with a "TAXI" sign, operate from designated stands or by phone.

Typical Fares

Significantly more expensive than public transport. Fares are metered, but agree on a price for longer journeys if offered a fixed rate.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber operates with licensed taxis in Naples/Salerno but is generally not widely available or cost-effective on the immediate Amalfi Coast.

Safety Tips

Stick to official taxis or pre-booked, reputable private transfer services. Avoid unofficial drivers who approach you.

Rental Options

Renting a car, motorcycle, or bicycle has flexibility but comes with specific considerations due to the unique terrain.

Car Rental Information

  • Book your car rental in advance, especially during peak season, as demand is high.
  • Pick-up locations are typically at Naples Airport or in Salerno, as direct car rental offices are less common in the smaller coastal towns.
  • You need a valid driving license from your home country. If your license is not from an EU country, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally needed alongside your national license.
  • The minimum age for renting a car usually ranges from 21-25, depending on the rental company, and a major credit card is needed for the deposit.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

  • Scooter rentals are widely available in towns like Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, presenting a popular way to navigate the winding roads.
  • The minimum age for renting a 50cc scooter is usually 18+, and for larger bikes, typically 21+.
  • Experience in driving scooters on hilly, winding roads with heavy traffic is highly advised due to the challenging terrain.
  • Scooter rentals typically range from €40-€80 per day, depending on the model and rental period.

Walking & Cycling

  • Most towns on the Amalfi Coast (Amalfi, Positano, Ravello) are best explored on foot due to their compact size and pedestrianized areas.
  • Be prepared for very hilly terrain and numerous stairs when walking.
  • The Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) is a renowned hiking trail giving spectacular coastal views. It connects Agerola (Bomerano) to Nocelle.
  • Public bicycle sharing programs are limited on the Amalfi Coast due to the hilly terrain.
  • Cycling on the main Amalfi Drive (SS163) is challenging and potentially dangerous due to narrow roads, heavy traffic, steep inclines, and sharp turns.
  • It is advised only for very experienced and confident cyclists accustomed to aggressive driving conditions.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Some regional tour operators offer bus tours that cover multiple towns on the Amalfi Coast. These tours often give comfortable transport and guided commentary.

Boat Taxis

Available for private transfers between towns, to secluded beaches, or for reaching restaurants only accessible by sea. More expensive than public ferries, they present flexibility and speed.

Unique Local Transport

No cable cars or funiculars directly on the Amalfi Coast. Nearby destinations like Capri have a funicular connecting the port to the main town.

Final Travel Thought

The Amalfi Coast terrain has challenges, but a range of transport options caters to every traveler. Plan your movements for a relaxed experience.

Embrace the journey, whether by ferry, bus, or on foot, and savor every moment of this stunning Italian gem.