How to Get from Naples to Positano Easily?

Let’s be honest — figuring out how to get from Naples to Positano can feel… a bit much at first. It’s not like there’s a direct express lane from the Naples Airport straight into that charming little cliffside town.

You’ll probably hop between a few modes of transport. Maybe stand in line. Possibly sweat a little. But — and this matters — once you get there? Totally worth it.

Exploring How To Get From Naples to Positano by Train, Ferry or Bus

Directions – 📍 Naples to Positano on Google Maps

✳️ a Quick Comparison Table

A side-by-side chart that shows:

Option	Time	Cost (approx)	Comfort	Best For
Private Transfer	1.5h	€100–130 pp	★★★★☆	Couples, families
Train + Bus	~3h	€10–20 total	★★☆☆☆	Budget travelers
Ferry	1.5–2h	€20–35 pp	★★★☆☆	Scenic lovers
Rental Car	1.5–2h	Varies	★★☆☆☆	Adventurous types
Taxi/Shuttle	1.5–2h	€50–150	★★★☆☆	Solo or small groups

Positano has this kind of magic that hits you slowly. Like, you think it’s the colors at first. Then it’s the sea. And by the time you’ve walked down those suggestive streets lined with boutique shops and citrus trees… you’re completely sold.

So yeah, getting there is part of the adventure. Here’s how to do it without losing your mind (or your luggage).

1. Private Transfer: Easiest (but not cheapest)

If your goal is zero hassle, then booking a private transfer is the dream. You’ll usually meet your English-speaking driver right at Naples Capodichino Airport or Napoli Centrale Station. No awkward map-checking. No dragging suitcases up and down stairs.

Most private transfer services come with air conditioning (essential in summer), extra luggage space, and — sometimes — a bit of conversation if your driver is the chatty type.

A lot of folks swear by Amalfi Coast Private Transfer Service. Rates start around 100–130 euro per person, depending on time of day and luggage. You’ll be in Positano in about 1.5 hours, give or take.

Pro tip: If you’re flying into Naples Airport with a partner or group, splitting the cost makes this option way more affordable. Plus, it’s pretty comforting to have a confident driver who knows the coastal roads like the back of their hand.

2. Train + Bus or Shuttle: Budget-friendly combo (but takes time)

The regional train from Napoli Centrale to Sorrento is usually your first leg. You’ve got a few train options:

• Circumvesuviana trains: super budget-friendly, but crowded and no A/C.
• Campania Express: slightly pricier but comfier, with fewer stops and air conditioning.

Average duration trains on this route: about 1–1.5 hours.

From Sorrento, you can catch a SITA bus or a private shuttle service down the Amalfi Coast to Positano. It’s a pretty ride if you’re not prone to motion sickness… but it’s winding. Oh, and during high season? Expect long lines at the Sorrento bus station.

Still, for travelers watching every euro, this is a solid route. Just budget around 3 hours total. Maybe more if you’re stopping for espresso or getting lost (it happens).

3. Ferry Options: Scenic but seasonal

If the idea of a breezy ferry ride along the coast sounds better than winding roads or commuter trains, you’re not wrong. Several ferry companies like Navigazione Libera and Positano Jet operate between Naples and Positano during the warmer months.

You’ll leave from either Molo Beverello or Port of Naples, depending on the company and time. The ferry crossing usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on stops and sea conditions. Ferry timetable and ferry schedules vary by day and season, so yeah — check ahead.

Ferry ticket prices? Expect around 20–35 euro per person one way. Not terrible, especially with the views. But beware: if you’ve got lots of luggage, some ferry services charge extra. Also, don’t expect precise punctuality.

Oh, and the earliest ferry often leaves around 8–9 AM. So this isn’t your go-to if you land late or prefer sleeping in.

4. Rental Car: Freedom with fine print

Yes, you can drive. The road trip from Naples to Positano takes about 1.5–2 hours. The views are cinematic. And if you’ve got a good playlist? Even better.

But here’s the catch — limited parking. Like, seriously limited. Some hotels offer spots, but often for a steep fee. And navigating those tight, twisty coastal roads with Italian drivers zipping past? Not for the faint-hearted.

Also, there’s ZTL (limited traffic zones) to deal with in both Naples and Positano. If you do rent, check your license plates and know the driving routes. GPS isn’t always reliable around those winding hills.

Still, if you want to explore more coastal towns or do day trips beyond Positano, having wheels can be a win.

5. Taxi Service or Shared Shuttle: Middle ground

Taxis from Naples to Positano are doable but come with their own quirks. First, the average cost can creep over 130–150 euros. And you’ll want to negotiate or confirm your fare ahead of time.

Shared shuttle bus services are a bit more wallet-friendly and can be arranged via hotel or online. Just double-check the departure time, especially if you’re catching a flight or ferry later. Delays happen.

6. Naples to Positano Day Trip: Is it worth it?

A quick heads-up — it’s doable, but tight. You’d want to leave Naples early (like really early) to get enough time in Positano.

Best if you take the fastest trains to Sorrento, then a quick bus or ferry ride. But even then, with travel time and bus schedules, you’re only looking at a handful of hours in town.

Honestly? If you’ve only got a day, it’s a lot. But for some people, that first peek at Positano is enough to start planning the return trip.

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✳️ “My Favorite Route”

My Go-To Route?
I usually land at Naples Airport, take the Campania Express to Sorrento, stop for a limoncello gelato, then grab the SITA bus to Positano. It’s not the fastest, but the views on that last leg? Kind of incredible.

Best Time to Travel This Route?
Late April to early June and mid-September to October hit the sweet spot: ferries are running, the sea’s sparkly, and crowds are manageable. July and August? Beautiful — but intense.

Final Thoughts

So how do you get from Naples to Positano easily? Well, it depends on what easily means to you.

Want comfort and speed? Go private transfer. Watching your wallet? Train and bus combo. Craving coastal views? Ferry it is. Or maybe you’ll mix and match… train one way, ferry back, taxi if your luggage feels heavier after all the shopping.

Whichever path you take, just give yourself extra time — and maybe pack a bit of patience. Because the journey down the Amalfi Coast? It’s not just about arriving. It’s a kind of travel mood all on its own.

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Frequently Asked Questions