

How to Go to the Amalfi Coast from Rome: A Complete Travel Guide
The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Italy's most iconic destinations with its cliffside villages, azure waters, and lemon groves.
With multiple efficient options, you can seamlessly transition from the Eternal City to this Mediterranean paradise. This guide covers every route, insider tip, and essential planning detail for going to the Amalfi Coast from Rome.
Why Visit the Amalfi Coast from Rome?
- Proximity: Just around 172 miles (277 km) from Rome, the coast is accessible in 3–4 hours.
- Scenic Diversity: From Positano's pastel houses to Ravello's hilltop gardens, each town offers unique charm.
- Cultural Add-Ons: Pair your trip going to the Amalfi Coast from Rome with Pompeii ruins or Capri's grottos for a richer experience.
How to Get to the Amalfi Coast from Rome
1. By Train (Fastest & Most Affordable)
- Rome → Naples → Sorrento/Amalfi Coast:
Step 1: Trenitalia's high-speed Frecciarossa/Italo trains from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale (1–1.5 hours, starting from €14.90). Book early for the lowest fares.
Step 2: From Naples, take:
The Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento (around 80 mins, €3–€4). From Sorrento, use SITA buses or ferries to Positano/Amalfi.
A ferry from Naples' port to Positano/Amalfi (seasonal, between 1 and 3 hours, €25–€57).
Rome → Salerno → Amalfi Coast:
Direct trains from Rome to Salerno (1.5–2 hours, depending on the train, costs about starting from €22). From Salerno's Piazza Concordia, ferries reach Amalfi in 35 mins (from €9) or buses in 1 hour (around €10).
Notes: This is the fastest way to Amalfi Coast from Rome.
2. By Car
Drive Time: 3–3.5 hours via A1/E45 highways.
Considerations:
Parking is scarce and costly (€5–€10/hour in towns).
ZTLs (Limited Traffic Zones) restrict access in Positano/Amalfi—book hotels with parking.
Rent small cars; coastal roads are narrow and winding.
3. By Private Transfer
This can be a door-to-door Rome to Amalfi Coast private transfer (3.5–4 hours, can start around €300 and go up over €1000 per vehicle).
It's ideal for families, groups, or travelers with luggage, as this type of travel will be stress-free. Add to Pompeii stop (extra 2–3 hours).
4. By Bus/Tour
- Direct Bus: If you're going to the Amalfi Coast from Rome, know that direct bus is rare; only one 7 AM bus from Rome to Positano (4+ hours).
- Guided Tours: Day trips from Rome combine Pompeii, Sorrento, and Amalfi Coast highlights (12 hours, starts around €120, but can go much higher). Extend your stay in Sorrento to avoid returning.
Key Transit Hubs & Connections
Sorrento
• To Amalfi Coast: Bus (SITA) to Positano/Amalfi
• Travel Time: 45–60 mins
• Cost: €2–€3
Salerno
• To Amalfi Coast: Ferry to Amalfi/Positano
• Travel Time: 35–60 mins
• Cost: €9–€15
Naples
• To Amalfi Coast: Circumvesuviana to Sorrento
• Travel Time: 75–90 mins
• Cost: From €3.5
Insider Tip: From Salerno, ferries are faster and more scenic than buses plus you can avoid summer road traffic.
Top Towns to Visit
Positano: Instagram-famous beaches and boutique shopping. Stay here for iconic views.
Amalfi: Historic cathedral and paper museum. Ferry hub for Capri.
Ravello: Hilltop gardens (Villa Cimbrone) and classical concerts.
Praiano: Quieter alternative to Positano, ideal for sunset dinners.
Travel Planning Tips
Best Time to Visit: April–June or September–October. Avoid July–August crowds.
Day Trip Feasibility: Possible but rushed. Stay 2–3 nights to explore leisurely.
Cost-Saving Tips:
Use regional train from Rome to Amalfi Coast/buses over private transfers
Stay in Salerno (cheaper accommodation) and ferry to towns daily
Luggage Advice: In Positano/Amalfi, use porters (around €10/bag) to navigate stairs.
Recommended Tours from Exploring Amalfi Coast
Maximize your trip with these curated experiences:
Path of Lemons Walking Tour: Hike terraced lemon groves from Maiori to Minori, ending with limoncello tasting. This one's ideal for active travelers.
Private Amalfi Coast Tour : Customize stops in Positano, Ravello, and a seaside lunch. (Includes skip-the-line access)
Full-Day Boat Tour to Capri: Swim in Blue Grotto, explore Anacapri, and return by luxury yacht.
Practical Advice
Without a Car: Ferries (April–October) and SITA buses connect all towns. Buy tickets at tobacco shops.
Parking: Pre-book spots via Parking Positano or Amalfi Parking. Expect pricing starting from €30/day.
Avoiding Crowds: Visit Capri early in the morning, or explore lesser-known towns like Erchie for secluded beaches.
Conclusion
Going to the Amalfi Coast from Rome can be straightforward with strategic planning. Prioritize trains for affordability, ferries for scenery, and private tours for depth. It's always best to rely on a local company that specializes in exclusive tours and offers authentic experiences.
For a seamless experience, book transfers or guided tours through Exploring Amalfi Coast ensuring expert navigation of this breathtaking coastline. Their tours aren't just trips, they're local stories that give you authentic experiences.