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How to Get to Amalfi

How to Get to Amalfi

Amalfi Campania, Italy Travel Guide

Air Travel Gateways

Naples International Airport NAP

The closest and most convenient airport to the Amalfi Coast. It stands about 60 kilometers (37 miles) north of Amalfi. Its proximity positions it as the arrival point for most travelers directly heading to the coast.

Routes & Accessibility

  • NAP serves European airlines (Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways, KLM) and budget carriers (Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air). Direct flights from North America are limited or seasonal.
  • Seasonal Availability: High demand (June-August) results in highest prices. Moderate prices in shoulder season (April-May, Sep-Oct). Lowest prices in low season (Nov-Mar) with reduced frequencies.
  • Airport Facilities: Standard duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, car rental agencies, currency exchange, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi.

Rome Fiumicino Airport FCO

Italy's largest international airport, FCO, gives a wider selection of direct international flights from major global hubs. It stands about 280 kilometers (174 miles) north of Amalfi, needing a longer onward journey by train and bus/ferry.

Global Connections

  • FCO serves as a major gateway to Italy for travelers from around the world. It has extensive direct connections to major cities globally, including numerous direct flights from North America, Asia, the Middle East, and other continents, operated by a wide array of international airlines.
  • Direct flights to Naples (NAP) from outside Europe are uncommon. Most international travelers fly into a major European city, then connect to Naples, or directly into Rome Fiumicino (FCO).
  • Departure Timing: When departing from Naples (NAP) or Rome (FCO), arrive at least 2-3 hours before your international flight. This allows ample time for check-in, baggage drop, security screening, and potential delays, especially during peak travel seasons.

Naples Alibus

Connects Naples Airport directly to Napoli Centrale train station (€5).

Circumvesuviana Train

From Napoli Centrale, take this local train to Sorrento (€3-€5), then connect to Amalfi Coast towns by bus or ferry.

Private Transfer

Pre-booked private car services offer direct door-to-door service, more expensive but comfortable (€100-€150+).

Transfers from Rome Fiumicino FCO

Train Connections

  • Take the Leonardo Express train from FCO to Roma Termini station (€14).
  • From Roma Termini, take a high-speed train (Trenitalia's Frecciarossa or ItaloTreno) to Napoli Centrale (approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes, fares €40-€70+).
  • Once at Napoli Centrale, proceed with transfer options from Naples Airport (Circumvesuviana or bus/ferry to Salerno).
  • This option avoids the often-crowded Circumvesuviana.

Private Transfers from FCO

  • Direct private transfers from FCO to the Amalfi Coast are available but costly (€300-€500+).
  • This is a luxury option for those prioritizing convenience above all else.
  • Book private transfers in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure availability.
  • Private transfers are comfortable, especially with luggage, and for direct service to your accommodation.

Airport Transfer Tip

Naples Airport Transfers

When arriving at Naples Airport, take the Alibus to Napoli Centrale. From there, you have good options for trains to Sorrento or Salerno, which both connect to the Amalfi Coast via bus or ferry.

Flight Booking Resources

Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner are useful resources for finding flight deals and comparing prices.

Travel Insurance

Consider travel insurance from reputable providers like World Nomads or SafetyWing for peace of mind.

Land Travel & Driving

Train & Bus Connections

Naples Centrale serves as the main train hub for connections to the Amalfi Coast. This station is well-connected to the rest of Italy via high-speed trains.

Local Transit Options

  • The Circumvesuviana line is a local commuter train connecting Naples (from Porta Nolana or Garibaldi stations) to Sorrento.
  • SITA Sud operates intercity buses connecting Naples and Salerno to various towns on the Amalfi Coast. These are convenient for regional travel.
  • Long-distance bus options directly to the coast from distant Italian cities are less common than train services.

Self-Driving Considerations

The Amalfi Drive (SS163) is famous for its narrow, winding, and cliff-hugging roads with numerous curves. These roads are visually stunning but present challenges, especially for those unaccustomed to such conditions.

Requirements & Challenges

  • Driving Requirements: A valid driving license from your home country is needed. For non-EU licenses, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is legally needed alongside your national license.
  • Road Conditions: Traffic can be very heavy, especially in high season, leading to slow journeys and increased stress. DiscoverCars.com is a good resource for rentals.
  • Parking: Extremely limited and expensive in most towns. Many hotels do not give free parking. For a relaxing visit, avoiding driving is often advised.

Scooter Rentals

Scooter rentals are widely available in towns like Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, presenting a popular way to navigate the winding roads. Experience in driving scooters on hilly, winding roads with heavy traffic is highly advised due to the challenging terrain.

Requirements & Costs

  • Minimum age for renting a 50cc scooter is usually 18+, and for larger bikes, typically 21+.
  • A valid motorcycle license or a regular car license (for 50cc scooters, depending on your home country's laws) is needed.
  • Scooter rentals typically range from €40-€80 per day, depending on the model and rental period.

Bicycle Rentals

Public bicycle sharing programs are limited on the Amalfi Coast due to the hilly terrain. Bicycle rentals are available in some flatter towns like Maiori or Minori, making possible short, local rides.

Cycling Conditions

  • Dedicated bicycle lanes are very limited on the Amalfi Coast.
  • Cycling on the main Amalfi Drive (SS163) is challenging and potentially dangerous due to the narrow roads, heavy traffic, steep inclines, and sharp turns.
  • It is advised only for very experienced and confident cyclists accustomed to aggressive driving conditions.

Road Safety & ZTLs

  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Italy has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol for new drivers.
  • ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones): Many historic city centers and smaller towns in Italy have ZTLs, restricted areas where only residents or authorized vehicles enter. Entering a ZTL without a permit results in hefty fines, often sent to the rental company and then passed on to you. Be very careful to avoid these zones.
  • Traffic Safety: Aggressive driving, limited visibility on blind curves, and sheer drops contribute to the challenge. Consider using public transport or private transfers.
  • Road Conditions: The SS163 has unique driving challenges. Pedestrians exercise extreme caution when walking along sections of the road where no designated sidewalks exist, as vehicles often pass close by.
  • Pedestrian Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Look both ways and use pedestrian crossings where present.
  • Avoid unofficial drivers who approach you offering rides. These drivers may overcharge or be uninsured, posing a safety risk.

Sea & River Travel

Ferry Services

Ferries are a popular and visually appealing way to travel between the coastal towns and to nearby islands like Capri and Ischia. This mode of transport gives spectacular views of the coastline from the water and often assists in avoiding road traffic congestion.

Main Ferry Information

  • Major ferry routes connect Naples, Sorrento, Salerno, Capri, Ischia, Positano, Amalfi, and other smaller towns.
  • Companies like Travelmar, NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo), Alilauro, and Positano Jet operate these services.
  • Ferry services are mostly seasonal, typically running from April to October, with reduced or no service in the low season.

Cruise & River Transport

Naples and Salerno are major cruise ports. Passengers arriving on cruises take day trips from these ports to the Amalfi Coast towns, often via organized excursions or by utilizing local ferries and buses.

Important Notes

  • Immigration at Seaports: For international cruise arrivals, standard passport control procedures apply, similar to airport arrivals. You clear customs and immigration upon first entry into the Schengen Area.
  • River Transportation: The Amalfi Coast has no river transportation options. Its dramatic geography has coastal towns directly on the sea or nestled into cliff sides, with land-based or sea-based transport as the main means of movement.
  • Ferry Tickets: Purchase ferry tickets at the ticket offices located at each port before boarding. Online booking is often available and advised during peak season to secure your spot.

Exit Fees

Exit taxes are typically included in the price of your airfare when departing Italy. No separate fees usually need payment at the airport.

Departure Timing

For airport departures, arrive 2-3 hours before international flights. For ferry/train, arrive 20-30 minutes early.

Tax Refunds

Eligible non-EU residents claim VAT refunds at major airports like Rome Fiumicino for purchases over a certain amount. Look for "Tax Free" signs.

Travel Recommendation

Use ferries when possible. They give breathtaking views of the coastline from the sea. They also assist in avoiding the often-congested roads, saving time and stress.