Amalfi Transportation
Amalfi Transportation
Getting to AmalfiAmalfi is located 25 km (16 miles) west of Salerno and 70 km (43 miles) southeast of Naples. There are many options for how to arrive in Amalfi, but it can be a little complicated for first time visitors. Knowing the options and making your travel plans in advance will start your trip to Amalfi off on the right foot.
By Air
The Naples Capodichino International Airport (NAP) is the nearest airport to the Amalfi Coast, and it offers national and international arrivals and departures (http://www.gesac.it/en/). The following airline carriers offer flights to the Capodichino airport:
Alitalia (http://www.alitalia.com/)
Air France (http://www.airfrance.com/)
British Airways (http://www.ba.com/)
Condor (http://www7.condor.com/)
Easy Jet (http://www.easyjet.com/)
Hapag-Lloyd Express (http://www.hlx.com/)
Helvetic.com (http://www.helvetic.com/)
Iberworld Airlines ( http://www.iberworld.com/)
Lufthansa (http://www.lufthansa.com/)
Meridiana (http://www.meridiana.it/)
My Travel (http://www.mytravel.com/)
Sky Europe (http://www.skyeurope.com/in.php/)
From the Airport
Amalfi is about a 90 minute drive from the Naples Capodichino airport. The easiest (and least stressful!) way to reach any destination on the Amalfi Coast from the Naples airport or train station is to hire a taxi for a private transfer. While it might seem an extravagant expense, the advantages far outweigh the cost. Driving in the Naples area and on the Amalfi Coast road is highly stressful at best. Since public transportation on the Amalfi Coast is easy to use and affordable and parking is expensive and very limited, renting a car is not recommended in general. However, taking public transportation from Naples to Amalfi can be complicated for first time visitors. Arranging for a private transfer reduces the stress of arriving on the Amalfi Coast, and eliminates the expenses and difficulties of driving in the area.
By Train
The train stations in Naples and Salerno are the closest to Amalfi. If you're continuing to Amalfi by public transportation, the Salerno station is recommended. Public SITA buses to Amalfi stop regularly right outside the train station. The bus ride is about an hour and the final stop is Amalfi. Or, it is a short walk to the Porto Turistico near Piazza della Concordia where you can catch a ferry service to Amalfi. If you arrive in the Naples train station and wish to continue to Amalfi via public transportation, transfer to the Circumvesuviana train line to Sorrento. Outside the Sorrento train station SITA buses regularly depart for Amalfi. The ride is nearly and hour and a half, but the bonus is that you'll get a good view of the Amalfi Coast along the way. (Sit on the right side for the best views!)
By Boat
Arriving in Amalfi by boat is the most scenic option. You can find ferry and jet connections to Amalfi from Naples, Sorrento and Salerno. If you are traveling off season, especially during the winter months, be aware that boat services are extremely limited.
By Car
To reach Amalfi by car, take the A3 autostrada south out of Naples toward Salerno and exit at Vietri sul Mare. Follow the signs for SS163, which is the Amalfi Coast Road. It is approximately 25 km (16 miles) to Amalfi.
Getting Around Amalfi
Walking
Amalfi is a small town and the best way to navigate its narrow alleys and maze of steps is on foot. You'll want to pack comfortable shoes for climbing the stairs and walking on the cobblestone streets! It's hard to get lost in Amalfi since most paths lead to or from the main piazzas or streets. However, stop by the local tourist office for maps and visitor information. The office is well marked and located inside the courtyard of the Palazzo di Città on the Corso delle Repubbliche Marinare 19. (Tel. 089 871107)
Bus
The local buses on the Amalfi Coast are operated by SITA, and Amalfi is the main transfer point on the coastline. Buses to Sorrento, Salerno and to Ravello/ Scala and other destinations depart from Piazza Flavio Gioia. You will need a Unico Costiera ticket before boarding the bus. Tickets are not sold on the bus, so it can be handy to purchase your return ticket before departing. Tickets are sold at any tabacchi shop in the following time increments: 45 minutes €2.40, 90 minutes €3.60, 24 hours €7.20, 3 days €18.00. When you get on the bus, be sure to validate your ticket by sticking it in the machine behind the driver that stamps it with a date and time.
Taxi
Taxis can be hired in Piazza Flavio Gioia if you need transportation to other destinations on the Amalfi Coast. (Tel. 089 872239)
Cars
Driving in Amalfi is limited to the Amalfi Coast road that runs through town (called the Corso delle Repubbliche Marinare), around the port area and only on the main road that runs up into the valley from Piazza Duomo. While you're staying in Amalfi you won't need to use a car to explore the town, so be sure to check at your hotel or bed & breakfast about parking availability and costs if you plan to arrive with a car. Driving on the Amalfi Coast road to other towns is recommended for experienced and confident drivers only. The narrow and twisty roads, large tourist buses and bold local drivers (and sometimes herds of sheep and goats!) can make the experience stressful for visitors. Yet, it is surely one of Europe's most beautiful drives, so if you're up for a truly Italian adventure, go for it!
[ source data from Travelmath and DistanceCalc ]
