Overview
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most beloved tourist destinations. It is home to breathtaking coastal views, picturesque towns, and stunning beaches. Located just east of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, getting to the Amalfi Coast from here can be achieved with relative ease. In this article, we will explore the best way to get to the Amalfi Coast from Pompeii, considering all available options, including transportation options, budget considerations, and travel tips.
Getting There By Car
Without a doubt, the most convenient and comfortable way to get to the Amalfi Coast from Pompeii is by car. This option gives you the freedom to explore and revisit interesting sites on the route, or take a leisurely detour to another town. You can easily rent a car at the Naples or Salerno airports or in the center of Pompeii. The cost of renting a car for a day is usually about €50-100, depending on the type of car you choose.
Driving from Pompeii to the Amalfi Coast is quite straightforward, as it’s only a 40-minute drive without traffic. Depending on your itinerary, you may want to drive to the central coastal city of Amalfi first and take a bus from there to other towns. Alternatively, drive directly from Pompeii to the towns of Positano, Praiano, Sorrento, or Ravello. Taxi services are available if you’re in a hurry and don’t want to drive.
Getting There By Train
Another option to get to the Amalfi coast from Pompeii is by train. You can take a regional or express train from Naples’ main station to Sorrento. From Sorrento, you can take a bus to the Amalfi Coast towns or hop on a ferry to explore the coastline. The journey is pleasant and comfortable, although it may take a bit longer compared to driving.
To get to the train station, you can either take a bus or taxi from Pompeii. The ride is about 45 minutes and will cost around €15-20. The train from Naples to Sorrento is about €10. Once you’re in Sorrento, you’ll be able to take a bus to the Amalfi Coast towns for about €3-4 per ride.
Getting There By Bus
The cheapest and potentially the most straightforward way to get to the Amalfi Coast from Pompeii is by bus. The trip takes about 1.5 hours, and the cost is about €10-15. Most bus connections take you to Sorrento first. From there, you can take another bus or a ferry to the Amalfi Coast towns. You can buy your tickets at the Pompeii train station or at the Naples Capodichino Airport.
Once you’re in Sorrento, you’ll be able to take a bus to the Amalfi Coast towns in comfort and ease. Most buses run regularly throughout the day and stop in the towns of Positano, Praiano, Amalfi, and Ravello. You can get off at whichever destination you’d like, but be sure to check the timetable for information about the services and the last bus.
Getting There By Ferry
For those who have more time (or more curiosity) and want to explore the Amalfi Coast from the sea, taking a ferry from Pompeii is arguably the best way to get there. Ferries travel to the towns of Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento and cost about €13-25, depending on the destination.
The journey from Pompeii to Sorrento takes about 40 minutes. From Sorrento, you can catch a ferry to Capri or the other Amalfi Coast towns. Generally, the bigger ferries run from Naples and Salerno to the Amalfi Coast. Check the timetable for the latest information.
What to Consider When Travelling to the Amalfi Coast
When travelling to the Amalfi Coast, it’s important to take safety and comfort into consideration. For instance, if you’re traveling by car, be sure to follow the speed limits and signs. Additionally, driving during peak hours on the Amalfi Coast can be quite difficult, due to the traffic. If you’re traveling by bus, be sure to keep an eye on your belongings and practice caution when purchasing tickets from ticket scalpers. When on a ferry, be sure to adhere to the ferry’s safety regulations and keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
And lastly, the best way to enjoy your visit to the Amalfi Coast is to plan your trip ahead of time. Doing a bit of research and mapping your route ahead of time can save you time and money. Additionally, be sure to plan enough time to explore the area, so you can make the most of your visit.
Where to Stay
Once you’ve made your way to the Amalfi Coast, you’ll no doubt want to enjoy the full experience and stay for a few days. Fortunately, the Amalfi Coast is home to an array of accommodations, ranging from luxurious villas to quaint b&bs. Before making reservations, it’s important to do your research and choose the best accommodation for your needs. Consider factors such as location, amenities, and services to find the best fit for you.
To get the most out of your stay, consider booking a room with a balcony or terrace, so you can enjoy the stunning views of the Amalfi Coast. You may also want to look for accommodations close to popular beaches or attractions. Additionally, if you’re looking for a more unique experience, look into newer stays such as treehouses, tiny homes, and mountain yurts.
What to Do and See
The Amalfi Coast is home to countless things to see and do. From nature hikes and boat trips to exclusive beaches and quaint fishing villages, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The most popular attractions include the iconic coves of Capri, the charming town of Positano, and the natural beauty of Ravello.
For a taste of culture and heritage, head to the towns of Pompeii and Amalfi. Here, you’ll find remarkable Greek, Roman, and Islamic architecture. Additionally, you can partake in a cooking class or wander the streets of Amalfi to find souvenirs and local delicacies to bring home.
Shopping in the Region
The Amalfi Coast is home to a wealth of artisanal products, hand-crafted souvenirs, and unique delicacies. Popular souvenirs include colorful ceramic dishes, handmade paper products, and local wool carpets.
The main shopping areas are found in Amalfi, Pompeii, and Positano. Here, you’ll find everything from artisanal jewelry and hand-painted ceramics to locally-crafted olive oil and gourmet food products. Additionally, the local markets offer a variety of traditional and affordable items.
Food and Drink Options
The Amalfi Coast is home to a thriving food and drink culture and one of the best places to sample authentic and delicious Italian cuisine. While it’s common to indulge in pizzas, pastas, and seafood dishes, the area is also home to a variety of traditional recipes, such as the torta caprese and seafood risotto.
When it comes to drinks, the area offers a range of options from classic Italian wines and beers to more unusual blends such as limoncello and frascati. For a memorable experience, head to one of the many local bars, for a traditional limoncello-tasting session.
Activities and Experiences
The stunning Amalfi Coast is home to numerous activities, so you’ll be spoilt for choice. For the most immersive experience, consider embarking on a scenic boat trip or nature hike. Alternatively, you can spend the day relaxing on one of the area’s stunning beaches or take a day trip to the nearby islands of Capri or Ischia.
For an unforgettable experience, take a day trip to the famous Blue Grotto in Capri. Here, you can marvel at the ethereal sea cave while listening to traditional Italian music and enjoying a cool glass of limoncello. Or, you can explore the nearby towns, such as Sorrento and Praiano, to sample local culture and tradition.
