Traveling from Naples to Sorrento: A Complete Guide

My reason to travel from Naples to Sorrento was to visit the Amalfi Coast. My expectations were high, thanks to my previous northern Italy and Switzerland trip.

You can take this trip by bus, boat, car, or train.

Buses that go to Positano and Amalfi depart from Sorrento. I already had a wonderful apartment in Naples, so I didn’t want to book accommodation in Sorrento, not even for one night.

Also, there are so many things to see in Naples, that one week seems like nothing. Just check out some of these activities and tours by clicking here.

Whether you’re looking for convenience, affordability, or scenic views, there are several ways to make this trip. This guide covers all available transportation options to help you choose the best method for your needs.

1. Circumvesuviana Train

The Circumvesuviana train is the most popular way to travel between Naples and Sorrento. It is the local commuter railway.

Details:

• Departure point: Napoli Garibaldi station (located beneath the main Napoli Centrale station)
• Journey time: Approximately 1 hour
• Cost: €4.60 one-way (as of 2025)
• Frequency: Every 30 minutes during peak hours
• Operating hours: Typically 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM

Pros:

• Most economical option
• Regular departures throughout the day
• Direct route with no transfers

Cons:

• No reserved seat
• Often crowded, especially during tourist season
• Limited luggage space
• Basic facilities with no air-conditioning

I used Circumvesuviana twice during my Naples trip: once to go to Sorrento and once to go to Pompeii. I found it convenient and not as dirty and as unsafe as advertised. It is just fine, even if you have luggage.

2. Campania Express Train

Campania Express is a premium train service that runs on the same line as the Circumvesuviana but with fewer stops and better amenities.

Details:

• Departure point: Napoli Garibaldi station
• Journey time: 45 minutes
• Cost: €15 one-way, €25 round-trip
• Frequency: Limited schedule with 4-6 daily departures during tourist season (March-October)

Pros:

• More comfortable seating
• Air-conditioned carriages
• Dedicated space for luggage
• Less crowded than the Circumvesuviana
• Faster journey with fewer stops
• Guaranteed seating (reservation required)

Cons:

• More expensive than the regular Circumvesuviana
• Limited schedule
• Doesn’t operate throughout the entire year
• Advance booking recommended during peak season

3. Ferry/Hydrofoil

A scenic alternative that allows you to travel by sea along the coastline.

Details:

• Departure point: Naples Port (Molo Beverello or Calata Porta di Massa)
• Journey time: 40-50 minutes (hydrofoil) or 75-90 minutes (ferry)
• Cost: €16-€18.50 one-way
• Frequency: Multiple daily departures during summer; reduced service in winter

Pros:

• Beautiful coastal views
• Avoids road traffic
• More comfortable than trains
• Often less crowded
• Faster than driving during peak traffic hours

Cons:

• Weather-dependent (cancellations possible during rough seas)
• More expensive than the train
• Seasonal service with reduced frequency in winter months
• Requires getting to/from the ports on both ends

This is the turquoise taxi in Capri. Don’t expect regular ones from Naples to Sorrento to look the same.

4. Private Transfer/Taxi

A door-to-door service that offers maximum convenience.

Details:

• Departure point: Any location in Naples
• Journey time: 45-60 minutes (traffic dependent)
• Cost: €80-€120 one-way

Pros:

• Maximum convenience with door-to-door service
• No need to carry luggage to stations or ports
• Air-conditioned comfort
• Flexible departure times
• Private and secure

Cons:

• Most expensive option
• Subject to traffic conditions
• Potential language barriers with some drivers
• Need to arrange in advance for best rates

5. Bus

SITA buses connect Naples with Sorrento along the coastal route.

Details:

• Departure point: Naples Varco Immacolatella (near the port) or Napoli Garibaldi
• Journey time: 1.5-2 hours (highly dependent on traffic)
• Cost: €3.60-€4.50 one-way
• Frequency: Several departures daily

Pros:

• Economical option
• Scenic coastal route
• More comfortable than the Circumvesuviana
• Air-conditioned

Cons:

• Subject to heavy traffic, especially in summer
• Longer journey time than other options
• Less frequent departures than the train
• Can be crowded during peak tourist season

The main problem is that the operators try to cram as many people on board as possible. Whether you seat or stand, you’ll travel in uncomfortable conditions.

The heavy traffic is a deal breaker. I’ve done it once and I won’t do it again.

A street in Positano, on the Amalfi Coast

6. Rental Car

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Details:

• Journey time: 1-1.5 hours (without stops, traffic dependent)
• Cost: €40-€80 per day for car rental, plus fuel and potential parking fees

Pros:

• Complete flexibility and independence
• Ability to stop at viewpoints or attractions along the way
• Convenience for exploring the Amalfi Coast beyond Sorrento
• Can be cost-effective for groups

Cons:

• Challenging driving conditions with narrow, winding coastal roads
• Extremely limited and expensive parking in Sorrento
• Heavy traffic during peak season
• Stressful for those not accustomed to Italian driving styles
• ZTL zones (limited traffic zones) with potential fines

I wouldn’t recommend this option, as finding parking can be such a nightmare!

7. Organized Tour

Many companies offer day trips from Naples to Sorrento, often including stops at other attractions.

Click here to see such a day tour from Naples to Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi.

Details:

• Departure point: Various pickup points in Naples
• Journey time: Full day (typically 8-10 hours including stops)
• Cost: €50-€100 per person depending on inclusions

Pros:

• Hassle-free experience with everything arranged
• Informative guides providing context and history
• Includes stops at additional points of interest
• Transportation in comfortable coaches
• Good option for solo travelers

Cons:

• Fixed schedule with limited flexibility
• May include unwanted stops or shopping opportunities
• More expensive than public transportation
• Less time in Sorrento itself

Tips for Choosing the Best Option

• For budget travelers: The Circumvesuviana train offers the best value.
• For comfort seekers: The Campania Express train or ferry provides a better experience.
• For families or groups: Private transfers can be cost-effective when split between multiple travelers.
• For scenic views: The ferry offers beautiful coastal panoramas.
• For flexibility: A rental car gives you complete freedom, but be aware of the driving and parking challenges.
• For day-trippers: An organized tour takes care of all logistics if you’re only visiting for the day.

Best Time to Travel

Avoid rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM) when commuting locals fill the trains and roads.

The coastal road can become extremely congested during summer weekends. If possible, schedule your visit from Naples to Sorrento or the Amalfi Coast on a weekday.

Whatever your transportation choice, the journey between Naples and Sorrento offers beautiful views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, making it an enjoyable part of your Italian adventure. Unless you’re sitting in a crammed bus, with no views other than the bellies of other passengers.