How to Get from Amalfi to Sorrento

However way you choose to get from Amalfi to Sorrento, the high-nested villages across the way will always be a magnificent backdrop to your route.

In traveling from one coastal village to the next, the most convenient options are traveling by sea and by road.

By sea, you can choose to take a ferry or the more expensive private taxi r (1-1.5 hours). The ports in both cities are a quick walk to the city center. However, views are arguably more attractive when traveling by road; the SS163 connects Amalfi to Sorrento and is considered to be one of the best coastal drives in the world (1-1.5 hours). It is also very curvy; inexperienced drivers should avoid taking it on and should opt for a bus or private transfer instead (1-2 hours).

Unlike the rest of the major destinations in Italy, trains do not serve the Amalfi coast.

Before you make the trip to Sorrento, make sure to explore this Relaxed Amalfi Coast itinerary.

By Ferry

Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours

This is a convenient, hands-free way to get from Amalfi to Sorrento and from one city center to the next. Two operators run the Amalfi to Sorrento ferry route: Alilauro and NLG. Board at Marina Coppola, Amalfi's harbor, a 5-10 minute walk from the city center. Arrival in Sorrento is at the Marina Piccola port, from where the walk to the main piazza, Piazza Tasso, is less than 10 minutes.

By Private Transfer

Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours

Although the most expensive option, a private transfer is a convenient way to get from Amalfi to Sorrento. A private water taxi means you don't need to follow the ferry schedule and can decide whatever time suits you best for departure (1-1.5 hours). A private transfer by car gets you to Sorrento in a similar timeframe, and travel on the SS163 is decidedly more scenic than the views on sea.

By Car or Motorcycle

Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours (more with stops and traffic)

For those who have rented a car and are comfortable driving on stressful, narrow curves and hairpin bends that make up the SS163, this is a quick way to get from Amalfi to Sorrento and is also considered to be one of the best coastal drives in the world. 

The downside of driving is that congestion is heavy in the summer, especially during weekends, and traffic can come to a standstill. Another major issue is parking: it is quite unlikely that you will find a parking spot and will have to locate the nearest parking garage, for which rates start at $5 an hour unless your hotel has availability.

Make sure to check the hours for driving in Sorrento's city center. Due to ZTL (limited traffic zones), you may not be able to drive within Sorrento's center at night or on Sundays.

If you are experienced in driving a motorcycle or moped, a rental (widely available across the Amalfi coast) is a hack to skip the traffic.

By Bus

Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes

SITA Bus runs the Amalfi - Sorrento line and the ride is approximately 1 hour 40 minutes. Pick-up is at Amalfi's Via Lungomare dei Cavalieri, and drop-off is at Sorrento's Piazza Giovanni Battista de Curtis. This is a convenient way to get from Amalfi to Sorrento. However, a seat is not assured, and there is a good chance you may have to stand during the entire trip during the summer season. Try to arrive early in order to be the first to board. Tickets are not purchasable online but are available at most tabaccherie, or tobacco stores across Amalfi. 

The ride across the SS163 is extremely scenic; for the best view, try getting a seat up front. Although the trip may appear to be scary due to the curvy roads, the drivers are skilled at driving across the coast and there is no cause for concern.