Travelling from Naples to Amalfi: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Exploring the stunning coastline from Naples to Amalfi by ferry offers one of Italy's most breath-taking maritime journeys. This popular route spans approximately 44.2 km (27.5 miles) and connects the bustling city of Naples with the picturesque coastal town of Amalfi. While flights aren't available for this short distance, ferry services provide an efficient and scenic transportation option. With regular sailings throughout the year and journey times averaging around 2 hours and 24 minutes, the Naples to Amalfi ferry route offers travellers convenience alongside spectacular views of the Mediterranean coastline. 

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about making this journey, from ferry schedules and port information to exploring the enchanting destination of Amalfi.

How to get from Naples to Amalfi: Flights and Ferries

When planning your journey from Naples to Amalfi, you'll find that ferry travel is your primary transportation option, as there are no direct flights available for this relatively short 27.5-mile distance. The closest airport to Amalfi is Naples International Airport (NAP), but from there, you would still need to arrange ground or sea transportation to reach Amalfi.

Ferry travel is the most direct and scenic option. The journey by sea offers unparalleled views of the stunning coastline, with the average crossing taking approximately 2 hours and 24 minutes. NLG operates the fastest ferry service, completing the journey in just 1 hour and 55 minutes. With two daily sailings and a total of 14 weekly departures, ferries provide regular connections between these two destinations.

The ferry experience offers significant advantages over land travel. While driving or taking a bus along the winding coastal roads might seem appealing, these routes can become extremely congested, especially during peak tourist season. Ferry travel eliminates traffic concerns while providing panoramic views of the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the dramatic Amalfi coastline. Additionally, arriving in Amalfi by sea gives you an unforgettable first impression of this cliffside town, with its colourful buildings cascading down to meet the harbour.

Ferry services operate year-round, making this a reliable transportation option regardless of when you plan to visit. Prices for the ferry journey average around £114, though this can vary depending on the season and how far in advance you book.

Taking the ferry from Naples to Amalfi

You can take a ferry from Naples to Amalfi. Ferries sail in around 2 hours and 24 minutes with about 2 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 1 hour and 55 minutes and is provided by NLG. Ferry prices average around £114 for this route. Departures start as early as 08:35, with the last departure from Naples to Amalfi at 15:35.

NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo) offers the quickest service on this route, making them an excellent choice for travellers who want to maximise their time in Amalfi. Their vessels are designed for passenger comfort, with spacious seating areas, outdoor viewing decks, and onboard refreshment services. The journey takes you across 23.9 nautical miles of the stunning Tyrrhenian Sea, offering spectacular views of the coastline that simply can't be experienced when travelling by land.

Onboard amenities typically include comfortable seating areas, restrooms, and snack bars or cafés serving light refreshments, coffee, and other beverages. Many ferries also feature outdoor deck areas where you can enjoy the sea breeze and take photographs of the passing scenery. Air-conditioned indoor seating provides a comfortable alternative during particularly hot or inclement weather.

While the ferry service operates year-round, it's worth noting that sailing frequency may increase during the summer months (May through September) to accommodate higher tourist demand. During winter, rough seas occasionally affect sailing schedules, so it's advisable to check for updates before travelling during this period.

With 14 weekly sailings and 64 monthly connections, the route offers good flexibility for travellers. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during the peak summer season when ferries can fill up quickly with tourists heading to the popular Amalfi Coast.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Naples)

Naples has multiple ferry terminals, with most services to Amalfi departing from Molo Beverello or Mergellina. Molo Beverello is the main port and is conveniently located near the city centre. You can reach it easily by public transportation, with the nearest metro station (Municipio) about a 5-minute walk away. The port is also well-served by city buses, and taxis are readily available throughout Naples.

If you're arriving at Naples International Airport, you can take the Alibus shuttle directly to Molo Beverello, with the journey taking approximately 25 minutes. For those driving to the port, several parking facilities are available nearby, though they can be expensive for long-term parking.

The terminal facilities at Molo Beverello include ticket offices, waiting areas, restrooms, and several cafés and small shops. It's advisable to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for ticket collection and boarding procedures. The port area can get quite busy, especially during summer months, so allowing extra time is always prudent.

Arrival Port (Amalfi)

Amalfi's port is small but efficiently organised and is located right in the heart of the town. Upon arrival, you'll disembark directly onto the main harbour area, which is just steps away from Amalfi's central piazza and the iconic Cathedral of St. Andrew (Duomo di Sant'Andrea).

The compact nature of Amalfi means that most accommodations, restaurants, and attractions are within walking distance from the port. For destinations further along the coast or in the hills above the town, local SITA buses depart from the main road near the harbour. These buses connect Amalfi with other coastal towns such as Positano, Ravello, and Sorrento.

Taxis are available at the port, though they can be expensive due to the limited roads and high demand. For those looking to explore the coastline independently, you'll find boat rental services and water taxis at the harbour, offering an alternative way to visit nearby beaches and towns.

Near the port, you'll find tourist information offices, restrooms, cafés, and restaurants. There are also several small shops selling local products and souvenirs. ATMs are available in the town centre, just a short walk from where the ferry docks.

Day Trip Possibilities

A day trip from Naples to Amalfi is entirely feasible, though it requires some planning to make the most of your time. With the earliest ferry departing Naples at 08:35 and the latest return sailing at 15:35, you can spend approximately 5-6 hours exploring Amalfi, which is sufficient to see the main highlights of this compact town.

For an ideal day trip itinerary, catch the earliest morning ferry from Naples, arriving in Amalfi around 10:30. Begin your exploration at the Duomo di Sant'Andrea, with its striking striped Byzantine façade and the beautiful Cloister of Paradise (Chiostro del Paradiso). Afterward, wander through the narrow medieval streets of the historic centre, perhaps visiting the Paper Museum (Museo della Carta) to learn about Amalfi's traditional papermaking industry.

By lunchtime, you could enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants along the marina or in the main piazza, sampling local specialties such as scialatielli ai frutti di mare (fresh pasta with seafood) or fresh lemon granita. After lunch, take a quick dip at the small beach near the harbour if weather permits, or continue exploring the town's shops and artisanal boutiques.

If you're feeling energetic, the Walk of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) offers breathtaking views, though a full hike would be too time-consuming for a day trip. Instead, you might consider a short boat excursion along the coast to view Amalfi from the water.

For those who find a day trip too rushed, consider staying overnight in Amalfi or extending your visit to include nearby towns like Positano or Ravello. Alternatively, organised tours from Naples often combine Amalfi with other coastal destinations, providing a more structured way to experience multiple locations in a single day.

Things to Do in Amalfi

Despite its small size, Amalfi offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors:

Top 5 Attractions

Duomo di Sant'Andrea (Amalfi Cathedral) - This magnificent 9th-century cathedral dominates Amalfi's main square with its striking Byzantine-style façade and impressive bronze doors. Don't miss the beautiful Cloister of Paradise and the Basilica of the Crucifix inside. Open daily from 9:00 to 19:00, with reduced hours in winter.

Museo della Carta (Paper Museum) - Housed in a 13th-century paper mill, this fascinating museum showcases Amalfi's historic papermaking tradition, which dates back to the Middle Ages. Visitors can observe demonstrations of traditional techniques and purchase handmade paper souvenirs. Open daily from 10:00 to 18:30.

Valle dei Mulini (Valley of the Mills) - This picturesque hiking area just behind the town centre features the ruins of ancient paper mills powered by mountain streams. The shaded valley offers a cool retreat during hot summer days and provides insight into Amalfi's industrial heritage. Accessible during daylight hours.

Chiostro del Paradiso (Cloister of Paradise) - Part of the cathedral complex, this elegant 13th-century cloister features interlaced Moorish arches and ancient Roman sarcophagi. Its tranquil garden creates a peaceful escape from the bustling town centre. Open with the cathedral from 9:00 to 19:00.

Marina Grande Beach - Amalfi's main beach is located right in front of the town, offering clear blue waters and views of the surrounding cliffs. While not the largest beach on the coast, it's convenient for a refreshing swim between sightseeing. Beach clubs rent loungers and umbrellas, though there is also a free public section.

Neighbourhood Guide

Amalfi's historic centre is compact and easily walkable, radiating from the main Piazza del Duomo. This central square serves as the town's heart, surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and the impressive cathedral. The narrow medieval streets leading off the piazza are lined with shops selling local ceramics, limoncello, and handmade paper.

The waterfront area offers a more relaxed atmosphere with its marina, beach, and seafront restaurants. It's perfect for evening promenades and dining with a view of the sunset over the Mediterranean.

For a glimpse of local life, venture slightly away from the main tourist areas to the residential neighbourhoods that climb the hillsides. Here, you'll find hidden staircases, small community gardens, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the town and sea.

Nightlife in Amalfi is relatively low-key compared to larger coastal resorts, centred around evening dining, waterfront bars, and occasional live music in the main square during summer months. For more vibrant nightlife, nearby Positano offers additional options.

Weather in Amalfi

Amalfi enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The most pleasant weather typically occurs from April to June and September to October, when temperatures are comfortable and tourist crowds are somewhat reduced.

Summer (June to August) brings average temperatures between 25-30°C (77-86°F), with July and August being the hottest months. These peak summer months see minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine, perfect for beach activities and swimming in the Mediterranean's warm waters, which reach around 25°C (77°F) by August.

Autumn (September to November) starts warm and gradually cools, with increasing chances of rainfall, particularly in November. September remains an excellent time to visit, offering warm sea temperatures and less crowded attractions.

Winter (December to February) is mild by European standards, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 10-15°C (50-59°F). This is the wettest season, with December and January seeing the most precipitation. While many tourist facilities reduce their hours during winter, the town remains accessible and offers a more authentic local experience.

Spring (March to May) sees gradually warming temperatures and decreasing rainfall. By May, conditions are ideal for sightseeing and hiking the coastal paths, though the sea may still be too cool for comfortable swimming.

Weather can occasionally affect ferry operations, particularly during winter when strong winds and rough seas might cause cancellations or delays. Summer generally offers the most reliable sailing conditions, though the occasional thunderstorm can temporarily disrupt services.

Cost of Visiting Amalfi

Amalfi, like much of the Amalfi Coast, tends to be more expensive than many other Italian destinations due to its popularity and limited space. However, with careful planning, it's possible to visit on various budgets.

For budget travellers, expect to spend around £80-100 per day, including a bed in a hostel or budget guesthouse (£40-60), meals from bakeries and takeaway establishments (£20-30), and minimal entrance fees to attractions. Self-catering and visiting during the shoulder season can significantly reduce costs.

Mid-range travellers should budget approximately £150-200 daily, covering a decent hotel room (£100-150), meals at mid-range restaurants (£40-60), and several paid attractions or activities.

Luxury travellers can easily spend £300+ per day, with high-end hotels starting at £200-300 per night, fine dining experiences (£70-100 per person), and premium activities like private boat tours.

Common expenses include:

- Coffee at a café: £1.50-2.50
- Gelato: £2-3.50
- Pizza or pasta dish at a casual restaurant: £10-15
- Three-course dinner at a mid-range restaurant: £30-40
- Local bus ticket: £1-2
- Entrance to the Cathedral complex: £3

To save money, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October), booking accommodations in nearby less expensive towns like Vietri sul Mare, and taking advantage of the excellent local bus network rather than taxis.

Best Time to Visit Amalfi

The ideal time to visit Amalfi depends on your preferences regarding weather, crowds, and activities.

Peak season (June to August) offers the warmest weather, perfect for beach activities and swimming. However, this period also brings the largest crowds and highest prices. The town can become quite congested, particularly when cruise ships dock nearby. If you visit during this time, book accommodations and ferry tickets well in advance.

Shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October) provide an excellent balance of pleasant weather and reduced crowds. May and September are particularly appealing, with warm temperatures, lower humidity, and most tourist facilities operating at full capacity. Hotel rates begin to decrease, and restaurants are more likely to have available tables without long waits.

Off-peak season (November to March) offers the most authentic experience of Amalfi. While some restaurants and hotels close for winter renovations, those that remain open cater primarily to locals. Winter visitors can enjoy significantly lower prices and a more relaxed atmosphere, though they should be prepared for limited ferry schedules and the possibility of rainy days.

For events and festivals, consider visiting during Easter week to witness traditional religious processions, or in late June for the Festival of Sant'Andrea, Amalfi's patron saint. The Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics, held in Amalfi every four years (next in 2024), features historic boat races and colourful pageantry.

For hiking enthusiasts, the spring months offer comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers along the coastal paths, while autumn provides clear, crisp days with excellent visibility for photography and appreciating the panoramic views that make this coastline so famous.

Accommodation Options in Amalfi

Finding the perfect place to stay in Amalfi enhances your coastal experience. The picturesque town offers various accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.

For budget-conscious travellers, consider guesthouses and B&Bs in the streets behind the main promenade, where prices tend to be more reasonable while still offering convenient access to Amalfi's attractions. These typically range from £70-100 per night depending on the season.

Couples seeking romance might prefer boutique hotels overlooking the sea or converted historic buildings in the town centre. Many offer terraces with stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, though expect to pay £150-250 per night for these premium experiences.

Families will find several family-friendly hotels and apartment rentals that provide more space and sometimes kitchen facilities. Look for options in the quieter residential areas just outside the bustling centre, with prices ranging from £120-200 per night for family accommodations.

We recommend booking well in advance, especially if travelling during the peak summer months when Amalfi becomes extremely popular with visitors arriving by ferry from Naples.

Getting Around Amalfi

Navigating Amalfi and its surrounding areas is relatively straightforward despite the town's vertical layout built into the cliffside.

The compact nature of Amalfi's historic centre means most attractions are within comfortable walking distance once you arrive. The main piazza and cathedral are just steps from the harbour where ferries dock.

For exploring the broader Amalfi Coast, the SITA bus network connects coastal towns efficiently. Buses run regularly between Amalfi, Positano, Ravello, and Salerno, with tickets available at local tobacco shops and newsstands for approximately £2-5 per journey.

Taxis are readily available but can be expensive due to the tourist nature of the area. Expect to pay around £20-30 for short trips to nearby towns.

For greater flexibility, renting a scooter is popular among visitors, though the winding coastal roads require confident driving skills. Several rental agencies operate near the ferry terminal, with daily rates starting around £40.

Water taxis and boat tours also provide a scenic alternative for travelling between coastal towns, offering a different perspective of the dramatic coastline.

Your Perfect Amalfi Getaway Awaits

The journey from Naples to Amalfi by ferry offers an unparalleled introduction to one of Italy's most beloved coastal destinations. With crossing times from just 1 hour 55 minutes with NLG, the ferry provides the most scenic and convenient way to reach this gem of the Mediterranean.

At just 44.2 km or 27.5 miles from Naples, Amalfi welcomes visitors with its dramatic cliffside setting, rich maritime history, and authentic Italian charm. The ferry journey itself becomes part of your vacation experience, with breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius, the Bay of Naples, and the rugged Amalfi coastline.

With 14 weekly sailings and convenient departure times from 08:35 to 15:35, planning your perfect Amalfi getaway is simple. Whether you're visiting for a day trip or an extended stay, the regular ferry service from Naples ensures you can maximise your time in this coastal paradise.

Book your Naples to Amalfi ferry tickets today and begin your journey to one of Italy's most spectacular destinations. With fares starting from around £114, the experience and convenience of arriving directly into Amalfi's harbour make ferry travel the premier choice for discerning travellers.