Travelling from Capri to Amalfi: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Exploring the stunning coastline between Capri and Amalfi is one of the most picturesque journeys in Italy's celebrated Campania region. This popular route connects two of the Amalfi Coast's most sought-after destinations, with ferries offering the most scenic and convenient way to travel the 25.6 miles (41.2 km) between these Mediterranean gems. With 8 daily sailings and a journey time of just over an hour, the ferry route provides travellers with regular connections and breath-taking sea views that simply can't be matched by any other mode of transport. 

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about travelling from Capri to Amalfi, focusing on ferry options while also addressing other travel considerations to help you plan the perfect Italian coastal adventure.

How to get from Capri to Amalfi: Flights and Ferries

When planning your journey from Capri to Amalfi, you'll find that ferries are the primary and most practical transportation option. Unlike many other popular European routes, there are no direct flights between these two destinations, as Amalfi doesn't have its own airport. The nearest airports to both locations would be Naples International Airport, which would require additional transportation to reach either Capri or Amalfi.

The ferry ride from Capri to Amalfi spans approximately 22.2 nautical miles (25.6 miles/41.2 km) and represents not just a practical means of transportation but an experience in itself. With an average journey time of 1 hour and 5 minutes, ferries provide a quick and scenic option for travellers. The fastest services, operated by NLG, can complete the crossing in just 50 minutes.

Ferry prices typically hover around £72 for the fastest services, though prices may vary depending on the season, with higher rates during the peak summer months and potential discounts during off-peak periods. With 8 daily departures, 42 weekly sailings, and approximately 192 monthly connections, travellers have plenty of flexibility when planning their journey.

The sea route offers incomparable views of the dramatic coastline, with the azure Mediterranean waters contrasting against the vertical limestone cliffs that make this region so famous. Unlike land travel, which would involve multiple buses and potentially complicated connections, the direct ferry service provides a straightforward and enjoyable journey between these two coastal gems.

Taking the ferry from Capri to Amalfi

You can take a ferry from Capri to Amalfi. Ferries sail in around 1 hour and 5 minutes with about 8 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 50 minutes and is provided by NLG. Ferry prices can range between £72 and higher depending on operator, whether it is a conventional or fast ferry and time of year. Departures start as early as 09:45, with the last departure from Capri to Amalfi at 19:00.

NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo) operates the fastest services on this route, with modern vessels designed to provide both speed and comfort. Their ferries feature spacious seating areas, outdoor viewing decks, and typically include amenities such as beverage services, allowing you to enjoy a coffee or drink while taking in the spectacular coastal views.

The ferries on this route are primarily passenger-only vessels, optimised for the relatively short crossing between these popular tourist destinations. Onboard, you can expect comfortable seating, restroom facilities, and often a small café or bar serving refreshments. Many vessels feature both indoor air-conditioned seating areas and outdoor deck space, allowing passengers to enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast.

While the route operates year-round, it's worth noting that service frequency increases during the high season (April through October), with the full schedule of 8 daily departures. During winter months, crossings may be reduced, and occasional cancellations can occur during periods of rough seas or inclement weather. It's always advisable to check the latest schedule when planning your trip, especially if travelling outside the main tourist season.

The earliest ferry departs Capri at 09:45, making it possible to enjoy a full day in Amalfi even if you're not staying overnight. The final departure at 19:00 allows for a leisurely dinner in Capri before returning to Amalfi if you're based there.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Capri)

Capri's main port is Marina Grande, a bustling harbour located on the north side of the island. This picturesque port area is well-equipped to handle the numerous ferries and hydrofoils that connect Capri to the mainland and nearby coastal destinations.

If you're staying in Capri Town (the main settlement), you can reach Marina Grande via the funicular railway, which departs from the central Piazzetta and takes just 3 minutes to descend to the port. This funicular operates frequently throughout the day and offers spectacular views on the journey. Alternatively, local buses connect the port to Capri Town and Anacapri, or you can take a taxi directly to the ferry terminal.

The port area features several amenities, including ticket offices for the various ferry companies, cafés, restaurants, and shops. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for ticketing and boarding. The ferry terminal itself is relatively straightforward to navigate, with clear signage directing passengers to the appropriate boarding areas.

For those arriving in Capri just to catch a ferry to Amalfi, the port area offers luggage storage facilities, allowing you to explore the island unencumbered before your departure. The waterfront area around Marina Grande also features several excellent seafood restaurants if you have time to enjoy a meal before your journey.

Arrival Port (Amalfi)

Amalfi's port is centrally located, positioned directly in front of the town's main square (Piazza Flavio Gioia) and the iconic Cathedral of St. Andrew. This convenient location means you'll step off the ferry and immediately find yourself in the heart of this historic maritime republic.

The port itself is compact and easy to navigate, with clear pathways leading from the ferry docking area into the town centre. Unlike larger ports, Amalfi's harbour doesn't require shuttle buses or long walks - you'll be exploring the narrow medieval streets within minutes of disembarking.

From the port, the town's main attractions are all within comfortable walking distance. The stunning Duomo di Amalfi is just a few minutes away, while the charming shopping streets, lined with boutiques, cafés, and limoncello shops, branch out from the main square.

For those looking to venture further along the coast, SITA buses depart from a stop near the harbour, connecting Amalfi to nearby towns such as Positano, Ravello, and Salerno. Taxis are also readily available at the port, though they tend to be quite expensive due to the limited roads and high demand in the region.

The waterfront area offers several services for arriving travellers, including tourist information points, currency exchange, and numerous restaurants where you can enjoy your first meal with views of the harbour and the boats coming and going against the backdrop of Amalfi's dramatic mountain setting.

Day Trip Possibilities

A day trip from Capri to Amalfi is not only feasible but highly recommended for travellers with limited time who want to experience both destinations. With the earliest ferry departing Capri at 09:45 and arriving in Amalfi around 10:35-10:50 (depending on sea conditions), and the latest return sailing at 19:00, you can enjoy approximately 8 hours exploring Amalfi and its immediate surroundings.

For an ideal day trip, we recommend catching the morning ferry from Capri, which allows you to arrive in Amalfi before the midday heat and crowds. Once in Amalfi, you can begin with a visit to the magnificent Duomo and its adjoining Cloister of Paradise, which typically takes about 1-2 hours to fully appreciate.

Following this, take time to wander through Amalfi's charming narrow streets and alleys, perhaps stopping for lunch at one of the traditional trattorias serving fresh seafood and local specialties. The early afternoon provides a perfect opportunity to visit the Paper Museum (Museo della Carta), celebrating Amalfi's historic paper-making tradition, or to relax on the small beach near the harbour.

If you're feeling energetic, the afternoon could include a short bus ride to nearby Ravello (approximately 25 minutes), known for its stunning gardens and incomparable views. However, this would require careful timing to ensure you return to Amalfi in time for the evening ferry back to Capri.

For those preferring a more relaxed pace, simply enjoying Amalfi itself, perhaps with a gelato while people-watching in the main square, followed by a swim in the Mediterranean and an early dinner before catching the return ferry, makes for a delightful day out.

If a single day seems too rushed, consider spending at least one night in Amalfi to experience the town in the evening when day-trippers have departed and the atmosphere becomes more serene and authentic.

Things to Do in Amalfi

Top Attractions

The Duomo di Sant'Andrea (Amalfi Cathedral) stands as the town's most impressive landmark. This magnificent 9th-century cathedral features a striking Arab-Norman Romanesque architectural style with a distinctively patterned façade and grand staircase. Inside, you'll find the Cloister of Paradise (Chiostro del Paradiso), with its interlacing Moorish arches and ancient Roman sarcophagi. The cathedral complex is open daily from 9:00 to 19:00, with a modest entrance fee for the museum and cloister areas.

The Museo della Carta (Paper Museum) offers a fascinating glimpse into Amalfi's historical paper-making industry, which produced the famous Amalfi paper sought after throughout Europe. Housed in a 13th-century paper mill, the museum features demonstrations of traditional hand-papermaking techniques. Open from 10:00 to 18:30, it provides a cultural counterpoint to Amalfi's natural attractions.

Valle dei Mulini (Valley of the Mills) presents an opportunity to escape the coastal crowds with a refreshing hike. This lush valley just behind Amalfi town was once the centre of the paper industry, with streams powering numerous mills. The shaded trail follows the Canneto river through lemon groves and past abandoned paper mills, offering a cooler alternative on hot summer days.

The Amalfi coastline itself is perhaps the town's greatest attraction. The small but charming Marina Grande beach provides a place to swim in the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters. Alternatively, take a short boat tour from the harbour to experience the dramatic coastline from the sea, including visits to hidden coves and the Emerald Grotto.

For culinary enthusiasts, a lemon tour and tasting experience offers insight into the cultivation and uses of the region's famous sfusato amalfitano lemons. These fragrant citrus fruits are the base for limoncello liqueur and feature prominently in local cuisine. Several farms in the terraced hills above Amalfi offer tours and tastings by appointment.

Amalfi's Districts

The Centro Storico (Historic Centre) forms the heart of Amalfi, with its maze of narrow medieval streets radiating from the main square and cathedral. This pedestrianised area houses most of the town's shops, restaurants, and historical buildings, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day.

The Waterfront district stretches along the harbour, offering scenic promenades and a selection of restaurants with sea views. This area becomes particularly enchanting in the evening as the fishing boats return and the setting sun bathes the coastline in golden light.

Atrani, while technically a separate village, lies just a 10-minute walk east of Amalfi and offers a more authentic, less touristy experience. This tiny fishing community, with its compact central square and beach, provides a glimpse of coastal life before mass tourism.

The Terraced Hills rising behind Amalfi feature ancient pathways winding through lemon groves and past small chapels. The Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) can be accessed from these upper reaches, offering spectacular panoramic views for those willing to climb.

Weather in Amalfi

Amalfi enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. This creates distinct seasonal experiences for visitors throughout the year.

Summer (June to August) brings consistently warm temperatures, typically ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with July and August being the hottest months. These peak summer months see very little rainfall, abundant sunshine, and sea temperatures warm enough for comfortable swimming, hovering around 24°C (75°F). While ideal for beach activities and coastal exploration, summer also brings the largest crowds and highest prices.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasantly warm temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), reduced tourist numbers, and more affordable accommodation. These shoulder seasons are perfect for sightseeing and hiking, with comfortable temperatures and the spectacular sight of spring wildflowers or autumn colours on the hillsides.

Winter (November to February) sees temperatures rarely dropping below 8°C (46°F), but with increased rainfall and the possibility of stormy days. Many tourism businesses close during this period, particularly in January and February, though the Christmas season remains lively. Ferry services to Amalfi operate year-round but with reduced frequency during winter months, and occasional cancellations may occur during rough sea conditions.

For ferry travellers, it's worth noting that the Tyrrhenian Sea can become choppy during winter storms or when strong winds blow, occasionally affecting sailing schedules. During summer, the calm seas typically ensure smooth and reliable ferry connections, though the occasional summer thunderstorm can temporarily disrupt services.

Cost of Visiting Amalfi

Amalfi ranks among Italy's more expensive destinations, particularly during the high season from May to September when accommodation prices can double or even triple compared to winter rates.

Budget-conscious travellers should expect to spend at least £100-150 per day, including modest accommodation, meals, and some activities. This would cover a bed in a hostel or budget B&B (from £50-80 per night), meals at casual eateries (£15-20 per meal), and minimal entrance fees to attractions.

Mid-range travellers typically spend around £200-300 daily, affording comfortable hotels (£150-250 per night), dining at quality restaurants (£25-40 per meal), and participation in several activities or tours.

Luxury experiences in Amalfi start from £400 daily and can reach several thousand pounds, especially when staying at exclusive cliffside hotels with sea views, where rooms frequently exceed £500 per night during peak season.

Common expenses include coffee at a café (£2-3), gelato (£3-4), a casual pizza lunch (£10-15), and a three-course dinner with wine (£35-50 per person). A short taxi ride within Amalfi might cost £10-15, while private boat tours start from around £150 for a half-day excursion.

To manage costs, consider visiting during shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October), when you'll find better value alongside pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Staying in nearby Atrani or Minori rather than Amalfi itself can also reduce accommodation costs while still allowing easy access to all attractions.

Best Time to Visit Amalfi

The peak tourist season in Amalfi runs from June through August, when the weather is consistently hot and sunny, with temperatures regularly reaching 30°C (86°F). During these months, the town fills with visitors, creating a vibrant but crowded atmosphere. The beaches become packed, restaurants require reservations, and accommodation prices reach their maximum. Ferry services run at full capacity with 8 daily connections from Capri, offering maximum flexibility for travellers.

The shoulder seasons of late April to May and September to early October offer what many consider the ideal balance. During these periods, temperatures remain pleasant (20-25°C/68-77°F), the summer crowds have thinned, and prices begin to decrease. The sea remains warm enough for swimming, especially in September, while the reduced humidity makes hiking and sightseeing more comfortable. Ferry services continue to operate regularly, though possibly with slightly reduced frequency compared to peak summer.

Winter in Amalfi (November through March) brings a dramatically different experience. Many hotels and restaurants close, particularly in January and February, and the town reverts to a quieter, more authentic atmosphere. Temperatures rarely fall below 8°C (46°F), but rainfall increases significantly. Christmas and New Year bring a festive atmosphere with local celebrations and lights decorating the town. Ferry services continue to operate year-round, weather permitting, but with reduced schedules during this off-peak period.

For travellers primarily interested in cultural experiences and photography, the shoulder seasons offer ideal conditions with soft light and fewer tourists in your photos. For those seeking beach time and lively nightlife, July and August deliver despite the crowds and higher prices. Budget-conscious travellers might consider November or March, when prices are at their lowest while most attractions remain accessible.

Notable events include the Byzantine New Year celebration (August 31-September 1), featuring historical reenactments and processions, and the Feast of Saint Andrew (June 27 and November 30), when the town honours its patron saint with religious processions and festivities.

Accommodation Options in Amalfi

After arriving in Amalfi via the scenic 1h 5m ferry journey from Capri, you'll need a comfortable place to stay. The charming coastal town offers accommodation options for every budget and preference.

Budget travellers will appreciate the family-run guesthouses scattered throughout the historic centre, typically ranging from £60-90 per night. Many offer stunning sea views despite their reasonable prices.

Couples seeking romance might prefer the boutique hotels built into the cliffside, offering private terraces and spectacular Mediterranean panoramas. These typically start from £120 per night but provide an unforgettable experience.

Families will find spacious apartments and holiday rentals, particularly in the quieter areas just outside the main centre. These self-catering options (£100-180 per night) provide flexibility for those travelling with children.

For the best value, consider booking accommodation well in advance, especially if visiting during summer months when Amalfi welcomes visitors arriving on the 42 weekly ferry crossings from Capri.

Getting Around Amalfi

Amalfi's compact nature makes it wonderfully walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops within easy reach of the harbour where your ferry from Capri will dock.

The SITA bus network connects Amalfi with neighbouring towns along the coast. Purchase tickets from local tabacchi shops or newsstands before boarding. A single journey typically costs around £2-3.

Taxis are readily available but relatively expensive given the short distances. Expect to pay about £15-20 for even short journeys due to the challenging terrain.

For adventurous travellers, renting a scooter offers flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, be aware that the winding coastal roads require confident driving skills.

Many visitors combine their Amalfi stay with day trips to nearby destinations, easily accessible via the local ferry network that connects the entire Amalfi Coast.

Plan Your Perfect Mediterranean Getaway

Travelling from Capri to Amalfi by ferry offers an unbeatable combination of convenience and scenery. With 8 daily sailings and a journey time averaging just 1h 5m, you can easily fit this crossing into your Italian coastal adventure.

The fastest services, operated by NLG, can get you to Amalfi in just 50 minutes for approximately £72, making this an efficient and reasonably priced transport option. With departures ranging from 09:45 to 19:00, you can choose a crossing time that perfectly suits your schedule.

Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, the ferry journey between these two Mediterranean gems forms an essential part of the experience. The spectacular approach to Amalfi by sea provides photo opportunities you simply can't get when arriving by land.

Ready to experience this beautiful journey for yourself? Book your ferry tickets today to secure your preferred sailing time and begin your perfect Amalfi Coast adventure.