How to Get from Sorrento to Naples

There are numerous ways to get from Sorrento to Naples, both located on the Gulf of Naples, about 30 miles (48 km) apart. The easiest and quickest option is by ferry. Despite the fact that the ferry goes via the island of Ischia, the sea journey is only 45 minutes and is quite scenic along the way. 

Renting a car or taking a car service wends you along the A3 freeway, taking you a bit inland during the 50-60 minute ride. You'll pass Pompeii along the way, so plan a stop there to see the famed UNESCO World Heritage Site where Mount Vesuvius volcano buried this ancient city in 79 CE.

Consider this seven-day tour that includes a cooking class in Sorrento or this Naples five-day trip that features Pompeii and Positano.

By Ferry

Feel the wind in your hair and breathe in the scent of the sea as you are whisked across the Gulf of Naples between Sorrento and Naples on one of the two ferry services that offer trips every day. The Alilauro ferry runs five times every day, so you can go for a day trip and not bother to change hotels. The ferries go via Ischia, so consider getting off and checking out that volcanic island as part of your day-long excursion. Bring a bathing suit, as Ischia is known for its beaches and hot springs. 

By Rental Car

You'll find Hertz, Budget, and Europcar outposts in Sorrento, so renting a car is easy. Take the highway route on SS145 and E45, or go for the meandering trip closer to the water, where the views are spectacular, and the temptations to stop are many. And why hurry? This is Italy, after all, so stop for a seaside espresso or aperitif along the way. You may be tempted to go for a swim but remember, the Mediterranean Sea doesn't ever get exactly warm.

Stop along the way at the Pompeii Archeological Park and be sure to allow plenty of time for your visit, for this is a large site with lots of fascinating things to discover.

And remember that renting a manual transmission car is substantially cheaper than going with an automatic, so if you're adept at driving any kind of car, you're in for a deep discount.

By Private Transfer/Taxi

Leave the driving to someone else and hire a private driver or taxi service to take you between Sorrento and Naples; our local specialists can help arrange a private car transfer for you. With a private car/taxi, you'll be taken directly to your destination, no need to fuss with transfers from the ferry stop nor need to find parking yourself in either of these typical Italian cities, where parking is always at a premium.

A private car and driver can also be booked by the hour if you prefer, allowing you to explore the waterfront areas along the way or to stop and see Pompeii at your own pace. Drivers are happy to be paid by the hour as long as you arrange that prior to the trip.