Positano, Italy is a stunning seaside village on the Amalfi Coast, known for its picturesque views, colorful buildings, and delicious food. If you’re planning a trip to Italy and wondering how to get to Positano, we will go over the easiest and most convenient option in this blog post.
Unfortunately, getting to Positano is not the easiest task. Getting there can seem a bit daunting, as it’s nestled on the side of a steep cliff. However, I assure you, if you are planning a trip to Italy, Positano is worth the extra effort to get there!
If you are looking for other Italian destination guides, check out our guide for 1 day in Florence, how to get to the Dolomites, and the best beaches near Palermo, Sicily! If you are exploring elsewhere in Europe, check out our Wanderful Destinations page where we have blogs from destinations all around Europe!
Now, let’s get into it! How to get to Positano… Here is the easiest and most convenient way to get to Positano on your trip to Italy!
Get to Naples, Italy
The easiest and most convenient way for how to get to Positano will still require a combination of transportation modes. The first step is to fly or train to Naples. Both are usually very convenient and budget friendly. The deciding factor may be where you are traveling from.
If you’ve already been exploring Italy, it will be a quick and cheap train ride to Naples. If you train in, you’ll arrive at Naples Central Station.
However, if you are in a different country, flying will most likely be the quickest and most convenient route. The closest airport to Positano is Naples International Airport (NAP). You can find direct flights from major cities in Europe and other international destinations.
Book a Private Transfer to Positano
Upon arrival at Naples International Airport or Naples Central Station, you should arrange a private transfer to Positano. If you are looking for the most convenient way for how to get to Positano, this is it! This option offers door-to-door service and eliminates the need to navigate public transportation.
Booking a private transfer for your journey to Positano is a convenient option that offers personalized service and a hassle-free experience. Even booking the private transfer is very easy. Here is a step by step guide for how to do it.
Research and choose a reputable provider
Start by researching and comparing different private transfer companies that operate in the Naples area. Look for companies with good reviews, reliable service, and reasonable prices.
Popular options include companies like Positano Shuttle, Amalfi Coast Transfers, or Positano Car Service. We used Positano Car Service because we had a bigger group and had a wonderful experience.
Book in advance
It is recommended to book your private transfer well in advance to ensure availability. Positano and the Amalfi Coast in general is a very popular travel destination, especially during peak travel seasons.
Many companies have online booking systems on their websites, allowing you to easily reserve your transfer. Alternatively, you can contact them via phone or email to make your booking.
Provide necessary details
When making your booking, you will typically need to provide details such as your arrival date and time, the number of passengers, the amount of luggage, and your destination (Positano). It’s important to provide accurate information to ensure a smooth pickup and, of course, update your company of any delays right away if that were to happen.
Confirm and receive instructions
After making your booking, you should receive a confirmation email or voucher with all the necessary details, including the pickup location, contact information of the driver, and any special instructions.
Keep this information handy for reference during your travel. Pack it somewhere accessible of screen shot it and save it on your phone.
Meet your driver
Upon arrival at Naples International Airport by plane or Naples Central Station by train, proceed to the designated meeting point. Look for a driver holding a sign with your name or the company logo.
Your friendly driver will typically assist you with your luggage as they guide you to the vehicle.
Enjoy your ride
Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the comfortable journey to Positano. The driver will navigate the roads and take you directly to your desired destination in Positano.
You don’t have to think about anything. Along the way, you can simply admire the scenic views of the Amalfi Coast.
Payment
Payment arrangements vary depending on the company. Some may require prepayment when booking online, while others allow you to pay the driver directly in cash or by credit card at the end of the ride.
It’s important you clarify the payment process beforehand so you know what to expect and to guarantee your ride!
How to get to Positano – Other Options
Train and Ferry
A train can get you half way to Positano from Naples. There is a train that runs from Naples Central Station to Salerno or Sorrento which will take you about an hour depending if you choose the high speed train or regular slower train.
The train will be a more budget friendly option than the private transfer, however it will take much longer and requires more logistical planning. Once you reach Salerno or Sorrento you will then need to transfer to a ferry or taxi to Positano.
We personally did not use this option so I cannot speak about the experience. However, while I was planning this trip I did not read great reviews about this option. We decided to stick to the more convenient route and just booked the private transfer.
From Salerno or Sorrento there are two ferry companies that take you to Positano. One option, called Travelmar, departs more frequently and will give you more flexibility in your travel day. Unfortunately it takes about twice as long to get to Positano.
The second company is NLG service. NLG service only runs once a day but only takes 35 minutes. If you plan to go the NLG route, I would highly recommend booking your ticket in advance to guarantee your seat since it only leaves once a day. While this option is faster, it may not work well with your travel schedule.
Also note the ferry from Sorrento to Positano only runs from April through October. Depending on when your trip is, this may not be an option for you!
Ferry
Additionally you could choose to ferry from Naples to Sorrento and then transfer to a different smaller ferry to get from Sorrento to Positano.
In total this option will take you about an hour and a half, not including any lag time between the first ferry’s arrival and the second ferry’s departure.
Enjoy your time in Positano
By booking a private transfer you can ensure a smooth and comfortable journey to Positano without the hassle of navigating public transportation or worrying about directions. It provides a convenient and stress-free way to reach your destination and start enjoying the beauty of Positano and the Amalfi Coast.
It’s important to note that Positano’s location on the Amalfi Coast makes it a bit challenging to reach directly. However, these transportation options provide a relatively convenient and hassle-free way to get to this enchanting village.
