Sorrento to Amalfi: Best Way to Travel in 2026

Planning a trip from Sorrento to Amalfi? The good news is that this is a very doable day trip, and there are a few different ways to make the journey depending on your budget, the time of year, and how much patience you have for winding coastal roads.

For most visitors, the best way to get from Sorrento to Amalfi is by ferry in the main season. It is scenic, avoids the traffic on the Amalfi Coast road, and is usually the least stressful option. Official ferry operators do run direct Sorrento–Amalfi services, while Amalfi’s official tourism site also recommends reaching the town by sea or by public transport rather than by car where possible

In this guide, I’ll cover how to get from Sorrento to Amalfi, whether the ferry or bus is better, how long the journey takes, typical prices, and what I would personally choose for a day trip.

Is Amalfi worth visiting from Sorrento?

Yes, absolutely. Amalfi is one of the easiest and most popular places to visit from Sorrento, whether you want a classic Amalfi Coast day out or you are using it as part of a wider itinerary with Positano, Ravello or Salerno.

Compared with some other Amalfi Coast trips, Amalfi feels like a straightforward choice because:

• it is well connected by ferry in season
• buses run throughout the day
• the town centre is compact and walkable
• you can see a lot in just a few hours

If you want the least stressful trip, I would choose a morning ferry from Sorrento to Amalfi and then return later in the afternoon.

What is the best way to get from Sorrento to Amalfi?

For most people, these are the main options:

• Ferry – best overall in season
• Bus –  cheapest, but can be crowded and slower
• Private transfer / taxi – easiest door-to-door, but expensive
• Car – possible, but not my first choice

Amalfi’s official tourism site specifically recommends alternatives to driving, noting that reaching the town by sea or land without your own vehicle is a good idea.

Sorrento to Amalfi by ferry

This is the option I would recommend first.

NLG publishes direct Sorrento-Amalfi crossings. On its current 2026 schedule, the route runs daily from 1 April to 3 November 2026, with departures from Sorrento at 09:00, 09:30, 11:00, 12:25, 15:15 and 16:10. The listed adult one-way fare is €23.50, with luggage charged separately. In the winter period, service is much more limited, with a daily operation only starting from 24 March on the currently published schedule.

Why the ferry is usually best

• you avoid Amalfi Coast road traffic
• the views are beautiful
• it feels much more relaxed than the bus
• it is ideal for a simple day trip

Ferry travel time

The exact crossing time varies by service, but the direct ferry is generally around 1 hour to 1 hour 40 minutes, depending on the sailing. Check the operator’s live timetable before you travel.

Ferry price

Based on the currently published NLG fare for the 2026 seasonal timetable:

• Adult one-way: €23.50
• Adult return: €46.50
• Child one-way: €14.00
• Luggage: €5.00 per piece

Ferry tip

If you are travelling in spring or summer, book ahead for morning sailings. These are popular, and the ferry is by far the most pleasant way to do the route.

Take a look at the images below of the ferry.

A stunning Amalfi Coast view from the water, one of the highlights of travelling from Sorrento to Amalfi.

A peaceful sea view from the ferry route between Sorrento and Amalfi along the Amalfi Coast.

Sorrento to Amalfi by bus

If you want the cheapest option, the SITA Sud bus is usually the one people look at for this journey. Amalfi’s official tourism website confirms that overland connections to and from Amalfi are served by SITA Sud throughout the day, and tickets can also be bought digitally through transport apps such as Unico Campania, Mooney App and DropTicket.

A commonly referenced timetable source for the 5070 Amalfi–Sorrento line notes an updated May 2025 schedule for this route.

Is the bus a good idea?

It depends.

The bus is:

• cheaper than the ferry
• useful if ferries are not running
• better for budget travellers

But it is also:

• slower
• more affected by traffic
• often crowded in high season
• less enjoyable if you get travel sick on winding roads

Personally, if I had the choice, I would take the ferry over the bus almost every time.

My honest opinion: is Sorrento to Amalfi easy?

Yes, especially in the main season.

I think Sorrento to Amalfi is one of the easier Amalfi Coast day trips if you plan it properly. The route is popular for a reason, and the direct ferry makes it much less intimidating than some other coastal journeys.

The only real thing to watch out for is seasonality. Ferry schedules are much better from spring onwards, while winter services are much more limited

Is there a train from Sorrento to Amalfi?

Not directly. In practical terms, you will usually be choosing between ferry, bus, taxi/private transfer, or car for the Sorrento–Amalfi route, since Amalfi’s official transport guidance focuses on sea and road connections rather than rail

Sorrento to Amalfi by car or private transfer

You can also travel by car, taxi or private transfer, but I would only choose this if:

• you are carrying luggage
• you are travelling in a group
• you want the most flexible door-to-door option

The downside is that Amalfi Coast roads can be slow, narrow and stressful, especially in the busier months. Amalfi’s tourist board specifically suggests alternatives to autonomous transport where possible.

How long does it take to get from Sorrento to Amalfi?

Roughly speaking:

• Ferry: around 1 to 1 hour 40 minutes, depending on the sailing
• Bus: usually longer, and highly dependent on traffic
• Car/private transfer: variable, depending on traffic and season

If you are trying to save time and avoid uncertainty, the ferry is usually the safer bet in season.

How to do a Sorrento to Amalfi day trip

If you are visiting Amalfi as a day trip from Sorrento, I would do it like this:

Option 1: The easiest day trip

• Take a morning ferry from Sorrento
• Spend a few hours exploring Amalfi
• Have lunch in town
• Return by ferry in the afternoon or late evening

Option 2: Amalfi plus Ravello

• Travel from Sorrento to Amalfi in the morning
• Explore Amalfi first
• Take the local bus or taxi up to Ravello
• Return to Amalfi and head back to Sorrento later

This works well if you want a fuller day without constantly changing transport.

What to do in Amalfi

Once you arrive, you do not need a huge plan. Amalfi is compact enough to enjoy without rushing.

A simple first visit might include:

• the Duomo di Amalfi
• wandering the old town streets
• the seafront
• a long lunch or lemon dessert stop
• possibly continuing to Ravello if you want more views

A tempting bakery display of pastries and cannoli, perfect for a sweet stop on an Amalfi Coast trip.

Visitors climbing the famous steps to Amalfi Cathedral in the heart of Amalfi town.

Traditional Amalfi Coast ceramics and lemon-themed souvenirs on display in a colourful shop in Amalfi.

Ferry or bus: which should you choose?

If you are still deciding between the two, here is the short version:

Choose the ferry if:

• you are travelling between spring and early autumn
• you want the easiest and prettiest route
• you do not mind paying more

Choose the bus if:

• you are on a tighter budget
• ferry schedules do not suit your plans
• you are travelling outside the main ferry season

For most first-time visitors, I think the ferry is worth the extra cost and the views are amazing, as shown in my photo below.

A beautiful view of Amalfi town from the water, with its harbour, pastel buildings and dramatic mountain backdrop.

My honest opinion: is Sorrento to Amalfi easy?

Yes, especially in the main season.

I think Sorrento to Amalfi is one of the easier Amalfi Coast day trips if you plan it properly. The route is popular for a reason, and the direct ferry makes it much less intimidating than some other coastal journeys.

The only real thing to watch out for is seasonality. Ferry schedules are much better from spring onwards, while winter services are much more limited

Final thoughts on travelling from Sorrento to Amalfi

If you are planning an Amalfi Coast trip and wondering how to get from Sorrento to Amalfi, I would keep it simple:

• take the ferry if it is running
• use the bus if you need the cheaper option
• avoid driving unless you really need the flexibility

For a classic, low-stress day trip, the ferry is the winner.

FAQ: Sorrento to Amalfi

What is the best way to get from Sorrento to Amalfi?

For most travellers, the best way to get from Sorrento to Amalfi is by ferry, especially during the main tourist season. It is usually the most scenic and least stressful option because you avoid the winding coastal roads and traffic. If ferries are not running, the bus is usually the cheapest alternative.

Is there a direct ferry from Sorrento to Amalfi?

Yes, there are usually direct ferries from Sorrento to Amalfi during the main travel season. These are popular with day trippers because they are straightforward and offer beautiful views of the Amalfi Coast. Ferry schedules can change depending on the time of year, so it is always worth checking the latest timetable before you travel.

Is there a bus from Sorrento to Amalfi?

Yes, you can travel from Sorrento to Amalfi by bus. This is often the cheapest option, but it can also be the slowest and most crowded, especially in spring and summer. If you are travelling on a budget, the bus may still be a good choice, but it is usually less comfortable than the ferry.

Is there a train from Sorrento to Amalfi?

No, there is no direct train from Sorrento to Amalfi. Amalfi does not have its own train station, so the journey is normally done by ferry, bus, car, taxi or private transfer.

How long does it take to get from Sorrento to Amalfi?

The journey time depends on how you travel. By ferry, it is usually around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the route and operator. By bus or car, the journey can take longer because of traffic and road conditions along the Amalfi Coast.

How much does it cost to get from Sorrento to Amalfi?

The price depends on the type of transport you choose. The bus is usually the cheapest option, while the ferry costs more but is more comfortable and scenic. A taxi or private transfer will usually be the most expensive option.

Is Sorrento to Amalfi a good day trip?

Yes, Amalfi is a great day trip from Sorrento. The journey is manageable, the town is compact enough to explore in a few hours, and it is easy to combine Amalfi with lunch by the sea or even a short trip to Ravello if you have more time.

Is Amalfi worth visiting from Sorrento?

Yes, Amalfi is worth visiting from Sorrento if you want to see one of the most famous towns on the Amalfi Coast. It is a good option for travellers who want a classic coastal day trip with historic streets, sea views, and plenty of restaurants and cafés.

Should I take the ferry or bus from Sorrento to Amalfi?

If you want the easiest and most enjoyable journey, the ferry is usually the better choice. If you want to spend less money and do not mind a longer or more crowded trip, the bus may work better for you. For most first-time visitors, the ferry is the more relaxed option.

Can you drive from Sorrento to Amalfi?

Yes, you can drive from Sorrento to Amalfi, but many visitors find it stressful. The road is narrow and winding, traffic can be heavy, and parking can be difficult. Unless you are very confident driving on coastal roads, public transport or ferries are often easier.

Is parking difficult in Amalfi?

Parking in Amalfi can be difficult, especially in high season. Spaces are limited and parking can be expensive. This is one reason many visitors prefer to arrive by ferry or bus instead of driving.

What is the cheapest way to get from Sorrento to Amalfi?

The cheapest way to get from Sorrento to Amalfi is usually by bus. It takes longer than the ferry, but it is the most budget-friendly option for travellers who are trying to keep transport costs low.

What is the easiest way to get from Sorrento to Amalfi?

The easiest way is usually the direct ferry, as long as it is running during your travel dates. It avoids road traffic, is simple to understand, and gives you a much more enjoyable journey along the coast.

Can you visit Amalfi and Ravello in one day from Sorrento?

Yes, it is possible to visit Amalfi and Ravello in one day from Sorrento, especially if you start early. Many travellers go to Amalfi first and then continue to Ravello by local bus or taxi. It makes for a fuller day, but it is definitely doable.

Is Amalfi better than Positano for a day trip from Sorrento?

That depends on what you want. Positano is often chosen for its postcard views and beach setting, while Amalfi can feel a bit easier for a day trip because it is flatter, more practical to explore, and a useful base for visiting Ravello too.

When is the best time to travel from Sorrento to Amalfi?

The best time to travel is usually spring to early autumn, when ferry services are more frequent and the weather is good for exploring the coast. Summer is the busiest time, so ferries and buses can be crowded. Shoulder season is often a nice balance between good weather and fewer crowds.

Is the ferry from Sorrento to Amalfi rough?

The ferry is usually a comfortable journey, but sea conditions can vary. If the weather is bad or the sea is rough, services can sometimes be delayed or cancelled. If you are prone to seasickness, it is worth planning ahead and checking conditions on the day.

Do I need to book the Sorrento to Amalfi ferry in advance?

In the busier months, it is a good idea to book the ferry in advance, especially for morning departures and weekends. This can make the trip much less stressful and gives you a better chance of getting the sailing time you want.

Is Amalfi walkable once you arrive?

Yes, Amalfi is very walkable once you arrive. The centre is compact, so you can easily explore the cathedral area, the main square, cafés, shops and waterfront on foot.

How much time do you need in Amalfi?

For a simple visit, half a day is enough to see the main sights and enjoy the atmosphere. If you want a slower lunch, time by the sea, or to combine Amalfi with Ravello, a full day works better.

Can I do Sorrento to Amalfi without a tour?

Yes, absolutely. This is one of the easiest Amalfi Coast trips to do independently. You do not need a guided tour as long as you are happy using the ferry or public transport.

Is Sorrento or Amalfi better to stay in?

Sorrento is often easier as a base because it has more transport connections, including routes to Naples and Pompeii. Amalfi is beautiful but smaller and can feel less convenient if you are planning multiple day trips. Many travellers stay in Sorrento and visit Amalfi for the day.

What should I wear for a day trip from Sorrento to Amalfi?

Comfortable shoes are a good idea, especially if you plan to walk around town or continue on to Ravello. In warmer months, light clothes, sun cream, sunglasses and water are essentials. If you are taking the ferry, it can also help to bring a light jacket for the crossing.

Can you do Sorrento to Amalfi in winter?

Yes, you can still visit Amalfi from Sorrento in winter, but transport options are usually more limited. Ferries may not run as often, so you may need to rely on buses, taxis or private transfers instead.

More Italian Travel Guides to Add to Your Itinerary

If you love trips that mix beautiful scenery, practical day trips, great food and easy planning, Italy is full of destinations that are perfect for a short escape or a longer adventure. From colourful coastal towns and historic cities to scenic train journeys and famous archaeological sites, there are so many places that feel unforgettable without being difficult to reach. 

Whether you’re planning an Amalfi Coast itinerary, a day trip from Sorrento, or a wider Italy trip with stops in places like Pompeii, Naples and beyond, I’m always adding new guides with how to get there, what to do, where to stay and useful travel tips to help you plan with less stress. If you’re building your Italy bucket list, have a look at my other posts below for more ideas. And you cannot miss our Top 10 Things to See in Pompeii.