How to Get From Naples to Sorrento, Italy - The Easy Way
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Hate figuring out transportation between cities like how to get from Naples to Sorrento? You’re in luck.
Exploring and being in Sorrento is amazing: the food, the views, the culture. It’s one of our favorite cities in Italy. Figuring out transportation and how to get to Sorrento…not so much. Especially since transportation to cities on the Amalfi Coast can take many different forms depending on where you’re coming from, your travel style, and your budget.
We’ve traveled to Sorrento dozens of times, and in all the ways that we recommend below. We’ve explored the best and easiest ways to get to the Amalfi Coast, and these are our recommendations to make planning your trip a little more effortless.
Our first recommendation is to start in Naples. Naples is the easiest entry point into Sorrento and the rest of the Amalfi Coast, so we highly recommend arriving there to start your journey to the coast.
Budget-Friendly Options
Train
From the Napoli Centrale train station (sometimes referred to as Napoli Garibaldi), you have 2 train options, both of them accessible from the basement of the train station.
1. Circumvesuviana local commuter train:
Pros: inexpensive (currently €4.90 per person per way), runs frequently (every 30 minutes at some times), runs early and late
Cons: can be very crowded, no air conditioning (hot during the summer), no luggage holds, frequented by pickpockets, stops at every station (about 1 hour 15 min)
Important to know: Buy your tickets at the train station.
2. Campania Express traveler train:
Pros: fewer stops and about 30 min less than the commuter train, seating guaranteed for all ticket holders, luggage racks, air conditioning (albeit not strong when it’s truly hot)
Cons: does not run during low season (winter / early spring), and there are only 4 trains per day
Important to know: Ticket prices seem to increase year to year; currently they are €15 per person per way.
Ferry
The Alilauro fast ferry is 40 minutes from Naples to Sorrento, and costs about €13.20 per person per way.
You’ll have to get from your entry into Naples to the Ferry port. There are multiple terminals for different carriers, so make sure that you’re in the right place at the right time! Also be sure to leave some extra time for boarding, getting your luggage on, etc.
An easy site to purchase ferry tickets from Naples to Sorrento (and other routes) is Direct Ferries. We use them all the time!
Important to know: Ferry schedules change seasonally, and it’s best to book tickets in advance in case the ferry fills up. In addition, some ferries also charge a ‘luggage fee’ for a piece of large luggage, much like an airline would.
Bus
There are also buses that go between Naples and Sorrento, however, there are many stops that are not specific to travelers, so if you’re bringing a lot of luggage it might not be the most convenient option.
Important to know: Make sure you buy your bus tickets in advance at a “tabbachi” or the station. Tickets are not available to purchase on board.
Middle Option between Budget-Friendly and Luxurious
Shared Shuttle
There are numerous companies that have shuttle buses that depart the train station and airport regularly in Naples for Sorrento. These typically need to be booked in advance. Some companies have certain departure times and run larger shuttles, whereas others may be smaller vans that are shared and that may even drop you off directly at your hotel or give you the option of a few different drop-off points.
Important to know: Prices vary based on company and service provided.
Private, Effortless, and Luxurious Option
(This could be the best option for you if you’re traveling in a group, so don’t immediately dismiss it!)
Private Transfers
A private transfer is the easiest way to get from Naples to Sorrento if you can afford it.
Private transfers may seem more expensive. However, if you are traveling with friends or a small group of people, it may end up being similar in total price than buying numerous tickets on the train or a shared shuttle.
Important to know: A private driver typically waits for you with your name on a paging board at the airport or train. As such, you must book in advance so that they have your arrival information.
”What about renting a car?” you might ask. We have a few thoughts on that and there are numerous reasons why we’ve not included it as an option above. That said, renting a car can be a good alternative for folks who (1) want to get out and explore, (2) are incredibly capable and confident drivers when it comes to narrow, winding roads that do not always fit two cars across with oncoming traffic, and (3) have a parking spot predetermined or paid for with hotel or accommodations. Otherwise, driving in Italy can be challenging in and of itself, and don’t get us started on parking.
Wondering if going to Sorrento is worth the hype? Check out our blog post “Is the Amalfi Coast Worth Visiting?” here.
If you’re looking for an effortless experience, where you never have to research transportation and you always get to travel in a private, effortless, and luxurious fashion, join our Heart of Italy Trip. You can experience every breathtaking view and mouthwatering bite that Sorrento has to offer without even lifting a finger.
If you’re traveling to Italy on your own and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service.
No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - who offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy.
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