I know how it feels—before my first trip to the Amalfi Coast, I had a few doubts about getting around. I’d heard all the stories about the narrow roads and the endless curves, and those online videos made it look even more daunting. But don’t worry Getting around the Amalfi Coast !
I’ll walk you through everything step-by-step, tailoring my tips to fit your budget and needs, so you can enjoy every twist and turn of this breathtaking coastline without the stress.
Navigating Paradise: Your Complete Guide to Amalfi Coast Transportation
Italy’s Amalfi Coast stretches along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula, (penisola Sorrentina) offering some of the most breathtaking views in the world. But before you can enjoy the lemon groves and colorful cliffside villages, you need to know how to get there and get around.
As a first-time visitor, understanding your transportation options is crucial to enjoying this UNESCO World Heritage site without unnecessary stress. Let’s explore the best ways to navigate this coastal paradise, whether by road, sea, or foot.
SITA Buses: The Backbone of Amalfi Coast Travel
Getting around the Amalfi Coast The SITA bus network is the most economical and widely used public transportation along the coast. These distinctive blue buses connect all major towns from Sorrento to Salerno.
For just €10, you can purchase a 24-hour ticket that allows unlimited travel on the coastal routes. According to recent transportation statistics, over 70% of tourists use the SITA bus system during their Amalfi Coast visits, making it the most popular option for getting around.
Key tips for SITA bus travel:
• Purchase tickets before boarding at tobacco shops, bars, or newsstands (look for “Tabacchi” signs)
• Validate your ticket upon entering the bus
• During high season (June-September), buses can become extremely crowded
• The most scenic route is between Positano and Amalfi, so try to get a window seat on the right side heading east
• Buses run approximately every hour, but schedules can change seasonally
The journey from Sorrento to Amalfi takes about 1.5 hours, while Positano to Amalfi is approximately 30 minutes. Remember that motion sickness is common on these winding roads, so consider taking preventative medication if you’re sensitive to curvy routes.
Sita Main website, with schedules
Coastal Ferries: The Scenic Alternative
When the summer heat peaks and the coastal roads become congested, ferry travel becomes not just an alternative but often the preferred method of transportation.
Getting around the Amalfi Coast using Ferries is one of my favorite options because they connect the major coastal towns from April through October, with more frequent service during peak summer months. A one-way ticket from Sorrento to Positano costs about €18, while Positano to Amalfi is approximately €8.
According to maritime transportation data, ferry ridership along the Amalfi Coast has increased by 35% in the last five years, reflecting both growing tourism and travelers’ preference for avoiding the congested coastal road.
Ferry advantages include:
- Spectacular views of the coastline from the water
- No traffic concerns
- Cool sea breezes instead of hot, crowded buses
- Faster connections between major towns
- Perfect photo opportunities of the colorful villages from the sea
Most ferries are operated by companies like Travelmar and NLG. Check their websites for the most current schedules, as they can vary based on weather conditions and season.
if you prefer to deal with a single company, it might be a little bit more expensive but OMIO it’s a portal where you can buy bus, ferries trains tickets.
Private Water Taxis: Luxury on the Water
For a splurge-worthy experience, private water taxis offer the ultimate in convenience and luxury. These sleek wooden boats, known as “gozzi,” provide customized journeys along the coast.
A private water taxi from Positano to Amalfi costs approximately €100-150, depending on the season. While expensive compared to public transportation, many travelers find the experience worth the price for special occasions or when time is limited.
Benefits of private water taxis:
- No waiting for schedules or dealing with crowds
- Ability to stop for swimming in secluded coves
- Personalized service and local knowledge from captains
- Perfect for accessing restaurants or beaches not easily reached by public transport
- Ideal for spectacular sunset tours of the coast
Companies like Positano Boats and Lucibello offer reliable water taxi services that can be booked in advance online.
Driving the Amalfi Coast: For the Adventurous Only
Getting around the Amalfi Coast by car gives you ultimate flexibility, driving the SS163 Amalfitana—the main coastal road—is not for the faint of heart. This narrow, winding road features hairpin turns, limited passing space, and summer traffic jams that can test even experienced drivers.
If you decide to drive, keep these crucial points in mind:
• Parking is extremely limited and expensive (€5-7 per hour in most towns)
• The road is approximately 50 km long from Sorrento to Salerno
• Drive a compact car—anything larger will be challenging on the narrow roads
• ZTL zones (limited traffic zones) exist in many towns; accidental entry results in hefty fines
• Consider parking at the outskirts of towns and walking or using local transportation
Summer traffic restrictions now limit car access based on license plate numbers on certain days, so verify these regulations before planning your drive.
Walking Between Towns: For Active Travelers
The Amalfi Coast offers spectacular hiking trails connecting many of its towns. The most famous is the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei), a moderate 7.8 km trail between Bomerano (Agerola) and Nocelle (above Positano).
For active travelers, walking provides:
• Breathtaking panoramic views unavailable from the road
• Encounters with local farmers and their terraced lemon groves
• A deeper connection with the landscape and natural environment
• Access to small villages off the main tourist path
• Avoidance of transportation costs and schedules
Always wear proper footwear, carry water, and check trail conditions before setting out. Many paths have significant elevation changes and uneven terrain.
Renting a Scooter: The Most Iconic Way of Getting Around the Amalfi Coast
One of my absolute favorite ways of getting around the Amalfi Coast is by scooter—ideally, a classic Vespa. There’s something so Italian about it that you’ll instantly feel like you’re in your own version of Roman Holiday.
Picture this: the wind in your hair, the salty scent of the sea in the air, and the dramatic cliffs unfolding before you with every turn. It’s a scene right out of an old film, and honestly, it’s a thrilling way to take in the views. But this isn’t for everyone. The roads here are narrow, with sharp curves, steep drop-offs, and shared space with large buses and confident local drivers.
So if you’re already comfortable riding on two wheels, or just feeling a little adventurous, this can be one of the most liberating and unforgettable ways to explore. Always wear a helmet, drive cautiously, and avoid high-traffic times—especially during midday in summer—when the roads are most chaotic.
You can definitely find several places that rent you a scooter here some of those
Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors
Best times for travel: Public transportation is most crowded from 10 AM to 4 PM. Travel earlier or later if possible.
Luggage considerations: Pack light! Navigating buses, boats, and the many stairs of the Amalfi Coast with large suitcases is extremely challenging.
The UnicoCampania ticket: If you’re planning to use public transportation extensively, consider the 3-day Costiera Amalfitana ticket (€30) for unlimited bus travel in the region.
Accessibility concerns: Many Amalfi Coast towns have numerous stairs and steep inclines. Research accessibility options if you have mobility limitations.
Digital help: Download the “Amalfi Coast” app or “Moovit” for real-time public transportation information.
Day Trip or Base Location?
Rather than constantly moving between towns, consider establishing a single base location from which to explore. Sorrento offers excellent transportation connections, while Amalfi and Positano provide central coastal positions.
Popular day trips using public transportation include:
• Capri: Ferries depart regularly from Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi
• Pompeii: Easily accessible by train from Sorrento
• Ravello: Connected to Amalfi by regular buses
• Salerno: The eastern gateway to the coast with train connections to Naples and Rome
Final Thoughts: Getting around the Amalfi Coast
On the Amalfi Coast, transportation becomes part of the experience rather than just a means to an end. The winding bus rides along cliff edges, the ferry approaches revealing colorful towns cascading down mountainsides, and the walking paths through ancient villages all offer unique perspectives on this magnificent coastline.
While delays and crowds can be frustrating, remember that you’re experiencing one of the world’s most beautiful coastal regions. The journey truly is part of the destination here—so relax, look out the window, and enjoy the spectacular views that have captivated travelers for centuries.
After all doesn’t matters If you choose buses, boats, or your own two feet to explore the Amalfi Coast, you’re guaranteed unforgettable vistas and the quintessential Italian coastal experience that will have you planning your return before you’ve even left.
