Travelling from Salerno to Amalfi: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

The journey from Salerno to Amalfi represents one of the most scenic coastal routes in Italy, offering travellers a chance to experience the stunning Amalfi Coast from the perfect vantage point - the sea. This popular Mediterranean route spans approximately 16.8 km (10.4 miles) and can be navigated primarily by ferry, with services operating year-round. While flight connections between these close destinations aren't practical, the maritime route offers an efficient and breath-taking alternative to road travel. 

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about travelling from Salerno to Amalfi, with a special focus on the ferry services that connect these two gems of the Campania region.

How to get from Salerno to Amalfi: Ferries

When planning your journey from Salerno to Amalfi, ferry travel stands out as the most efficient and scenic option. The distance between these two coastal towns is just 16.8 km (10.4 miles) or 9.1 nautical miles by sea. Ferry services operate regularly throughout the year, offering a convenient alternative to the often congested coastal roads.

Ferry travel between Salerno and Amalfi typically takes around 39 minutes on average, making it a quick and efficient option for travellers. With approximately 9 sailings daily (66 weekly and 298 monthly), you'll have plenty of flexibility when planning your trip. The earliest departure from Salerno is at 07:50, with the latest at 16:40, allowing for both morning arrivals and afternoon returns.

What makes the ferry journey particularly appealing is the spectacular scenery you'll enjoy along the way. As you cruise along the coastline, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the dramatic cliffs, colourful villages, and azure waters that make the Amalfi Coast a UNESCO World Heritage site. This scenic perspective is something you simply can't experience when travelling by road.

Taking the ferry from Salerno to Amalfi

You can take a ferry from Salerno to Amalfi. Ferries from Salerno to Amalfi sail in around 39 minutes with about 9 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 25 minutes and is provided by Alicost and Positano Jet. Ferry prices typically average around £45 for the fastest services. Departures start as early as 07:50, with the last departure from Salerno to Amalfi at 16:40.

Ferry Operators

The main ferry operators serving the Salerno to Amalfi route are Alicost and Positano Jet. Both companies offer high-speed services that can get you to Amalfi in just 25 minutes, making them ideal for day-trippers or travellers with tight schedules.

Alicost operates modern vessels equipped with comfortable seating areas, panoramic viewing decks, and refreshment services. Their ferries are designed to provide a smooth journey while maximising the spectacular views along the coastline.

Positano Jet also offers high-speed services with a focus on comfort and reliability. Their vessels feature spacious seating arrangements and excellent viewing opportunities, ensuring you don't miss any of the stunning scenery during your journey.

Onboard Amenities

While the journey between Salerno and Amalfi is relatively short, the ferry operators ensure passengers have access to essential amenities. Most ferries feature:

• Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating areas
• Toilet facilities
• Small refreshment counters or vending machines
• Luggage storage spaces
• Panoramic viewing areas for photography

The larger vessels may also offer additional services such as guided commentary in multiple languages, providing insights about the passing landmarks and the history of the Amalfi Coast.

Seasonal Considerations

Although ferries operate year-round between Salerno and Amalfi, it's worth noting that service frequency increases during the peak tourist season (April through October). During summer months, we recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially if you're travelling on weekends or holidays when demand is highest.

Winter services continue to run, but with reduced frequency and are more susceptible to cancellations due to adverse weather conditions. If travelling during the off-season, we suggest checking the operator websites or contacting them directly for the most up-to-date schedule information.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Salerno)

Salerno's ferry terminal (Molo Manfredi) is conveniently located near the city centre, making it easily accessible for travellers. The port is approximately a 15-minute walk from Salerno's main train station (Stazione di Salerno), which has excellent connections to Naples, Rome, and other major Italian cities.

If you're arriving by train, you can either walk to the port or take a short taxi ride. For those arriving by car, there are several parking facilities near the port area, though they can be expensive during peak season.

The terminal itself is relatively compact but offers essential facilities including:

• Ticket offices for various ferry operators
• Waiting areas with seating
• Restroom facilities
• Small cafés and snack bars
• Tourist information point

We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for ticket collection and boarding procedures.

Arrival Port (Amalfi)

Amalfi's port is situated right in the heart of the town, adjacent to the main piazza and just steps away from the famous Cathedral of St. Andrew (Duomo di Sant'Andrea). This central location means you'll be immediately immersed in Amalfi's charm as soon as you disembark.

From the port, all of Amalfi's main attractions are within easy walking distance. The town is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with most points of interest no more than 10-15 minutes away on foot.

For those wishing to explore further along the coast, SITA buses depart from the main road near the port, connecting Amalfi with other coastal towns such as Positano, Ravello, and Sorrento. Taxi services are also available, though they can be quite expensive due to the winding coastal roads and high demand.

Near the port, you'll find:

• Tourist information office
• Public restrooms
• Numerous cafés, restaurants, and gelaterias
• Souvenir shops and local artisan boutiques
• ATMs and currency exchange services

Day Trip Possibilities

A day trip from Salerno to Amalfi is not only feasible but highly recommended for travellers with limited time. With the earliest ferry departing Salerno at 07:50 and the latest return at 16:40, you can enjoy approximately 8 hours exploring Amalfi, which is ample time to experience the town's highlights.

For an ideal day trip itinerary, we suggest:

• 8:30 AM: Arrive in Amalfi and begin with a coffee at one of the cafés in the main square
• 9:00 AM: Visit the Duomo di Sant'Andrea and its museum
• 10:30 AM: Explore the Paper Museum (Museo della Carta), celebrating Amalfi's historic paper-making tradition
• 12:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local trattoria, sampling regional specialties
• 1:30 PM: Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets and alleys of the historic centre
• 2:30 PM: Visit the Arsenal of the Maritime Republic (Arsenale della Repubblica)
• 3:30 PM: Relax at a beach club or enjoy some shopping for local products like limoncello and handmade ceramics
• 5:00 PM: Return to Salerno on the afternoon ferry

If you're particularly interested in maximising your time on the Amalfi Coast, consider taking the earliest ferry to Amalfi and then using the efficient SITA bus service to visit nearby Ravello (famous for its gardens and villas) before returning to Amalfi for the last ferry back to Salerno.

Things to Do in Amalfi

Top 5 Attractions

Duomo di Sant'Andrea (Cathedral of St. Andrew)
This striking 9th-century cathedral dominates Amalfi's main square with its distinctive striped Byzantine façade and impressive 62-step staircase. Inside, you'll find beautiful cloisters, the Crypt of St. Andrew, and the fascinating Diocesan Museum. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (shorter hours in winter).

Museo della Carta (Paper Museum)
Housed in a 13th-century paper mill, this museum celebrates Amalfi's historic paper-making industry, which produced the famous bambagina paper. Visitors can see the original machinery and learn about traditional techniques, even making their own paper. Open from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM.

Valle dei Mulini (Valley of the Mills)
A short walk from the town centre leads to this picturesque valley where Amalfi's paper mills once operated. The hiking trail offers beautiful natural scenery, ruins of ancient mills, and a refreshing escape from the bustling town centre. Accessible during daylight hours.

Arsenale della Repubblica (Arsenal of the Republic)
This medieval shipyard dates back to Amalfi's days as a maritime power. Though only a portion of the original structure remains, it provides fascinating insights into the town's naval history and now hosts exhibitions and cultural events. Open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Amalfi Beach (Spiaggia Grande)
The town's main beach offers crystal-clear waters and views of the colourful buildings climbing the hillsides. While not the largest beach on the coast, it's perfect for a refreshing swim after exploring the town. Beach clubs offer lounger rentals, though there is also a free public section.

Neighbourhood Guide

Historic Centre
The heart of Amalfi is its compact historic centre, radiating from the Piazza del Duomo. This pedestrianised area features narrow medieval streets lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. It's where you'll find most major attractions and is perfect for leisurely exploration.

Marina Grande
The harbour area offers beautiful sea views, boat excursion opportunities, and several excellent seafood restaurants. It's the perfect spot to watch the sunset while enjoying a meal or aperitivo.

Atrani
Though technically a separate village, Atrani is just a 10-minute walk from Amalfi and offers a more authentic, less touristy experience. Its charming square and beach make it worth the short detour.

Shopping Streets
Via Lorenzo d'Amalfi and Via Pietro Capuano form the main shopping arteries of Amalfi, where you'll find everything from high-end boutiques to shops selling local specialties like limoncello, ceramics, and handmade paper products.

Weather in Amalfi

Amalfi enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. This climate plays a significant role in planning your visit, especially if you're travelling by ferry.

Summer (June to August) brings average temperatures between 25-30°C (77-86°F), with July and August being the hottest months. These warm conditions create perfect beach weather and ideal conditions for ferry travel, with calm seas and clear skies predominating. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer milder temperatures around 15-25°C (59-77°F) and fewer tourists. These shoulder seasons provide an excellent balance of comfortable weather and more manageable visitor numbers. Ferry services operate regularly during these periods, though with slightly reduced frequency compared to summer.

Winter (December to February) is the quietest season, with temperatures typically ranging from 8-15°C (46-59°F). While still mild compared to northern Europe, winter brings increased rainfall and occasionally rough seas. Ferry services continue to operate but are more subject to weather-related cancellations or delays. If travelling during winter, we recommend checking ferry status on the morning of travel.

It's worth noting that the sheltered position of the Amalfi Coast often results in more stable weather conditions than other parts of the Mediterranean, making year-round visits possible, though with seasonal considerations.

Cost of Visiting Amalfi

Amalfi, like much of the Amalfi Coast, is considered a premium destination, with prices reflecting its popularity and limited space. However, with careful planning, it's possible to enjoy this beautiful town across various budget levels.

For transportation, the ferry from Salerno to Amalfi costs around £45 for the fastest services provided by Alicost and Positano Jet. This represents good value considering the scenic nature of the journey and the convenience compared to road travel.

Accommodation in Amalfi ranges from approximately £80 per night for budget options to £300+ for luxury hotels with sea views. For day-trippers, this cost isn't a concern, making a single-day visit an economical way to experience Amalfi.

Dining costs vary significantly:

• Budget meal at a casual trattoria: £15-25 per person
• Mid-range restaurant lunch: £30-45 per person
• High-end dining experience: £60+ per person
• Coffee at a café: £2-3
• Gelato: £2-4
• Local street food (like pizza slices): £3-6

Attraction entrance fees are relatively reasonable:

• Duomo and museum: £3
• Paper Museum: £5
• Beach club lounger rental: £15-25 per day

To save money, consider visiting during shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October), bringing water and snacks from Salerno, and focusing on free activities like wandering the historic streets or swimming at the public beach sections.

Best Time to Visit Amalfi

The ideal time to visit Amalfi depends largely on your preferences regarding weather, crowds, and activities. Each season offers a different experience of this coastal gem.

Peak Season (June to August)
Summer brings hot, sunny days perfect for beach activities and swimming. With temperatures consistently between 25-30°C (77-86°F), you can fully enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle. However, this is also when Amalfi is at its most crowded and expensive. Ferry services run at maximum frequency, but advance booking is essential. If you don't mind the crowds and prioritise beach time, summer can be ideal.

Shoulder Season (April-May and September-October)
We particularly recommend these months as the best overall time to visit Amalfi. Temperatures remain pleasant (18-25°C/64-77°F), the summer crowds have thinned, and prices begin to moderate. The sea is still warm enough for swimming, especially in September and early October. Ferry services operate regularly, and you'll have more space to enjoy the town's attractions. May brings the bonus of blooming flowers across the coastline, while September offers harvest festivals.

Off-Peak Season (November to March)
Winter visits to Amalfi offer a completely different experience. The town returns to its authentic, local rhythm, with many tourist establishments closed or operating reduced hours. While temperatures rarely drop below 8°C (46°F), rainfall increases and some days can be quite wet. Ferry services continue but with reduced frequency and higher chance of weather disruptions. The benefits include significantly lower prices, no crowds, and a more authentic local experience. Christmas in Amalfi offers unique cultural events and beautiful decorations.

For travellers primarily interested in sightseeing, hiking, and cultural experiences rather than beach activities, the off-season can be surprisingly rewarding. However, if you're hoping for the classic Amalfi Coast experience with vibrant street life and all amenities operating, aim for the shoulder seasons.

Special events worth planning around include Easter processions (dates vary), the Byzantine New Year Festival (late August/early September), and the Feast of Sant'Andrea (June 27 and November 30), when the town celebrates its patron saint with processions and festivities.

Where to Stay in Amalfi

Finding the perfect accommodation in Amalfi enhances your Amalfi Coast experience. The town offers options for every budget and traveller type, though prices tend to be higher during the peak summer months.

Budget-Friendly Options

For travellers watching their expenses, look for family-run B&Bs and guesthouses slightly away from the main square. These typically range from £80-120 per night and often include breakfast. Solo travellers might consider hostels in nearby Atrani, just a 15-minute walk from Amalfi centre.

Mid-Range and Luxury

Couples seeking romance can find boutique hotels housed in converted historic buildings, offering stunning sea views for £150-300 per night. Families typically prefer apartment rentals with kitchen facilities, providing more space and flexibility for £200-400 per night depending on size and location.

For the ultimate Amalfi experience, luxury cliffside hotels offer unparalleled views, infinity pools, and gourmet dining experiences starting from £400 per night.

Getting Around Amalfi

Amalfi is a compact town best explored on foot, with most attractions within walking distance of the harbour where your ferry from Salerno will arrive.

Public Transport

SITA buses connect Amalfi to other coastal towns, with services running approximately hourly. Tickets must be purchased in advance from tobacco shops or newsstands (around £2-4 per journey). During summer, these buses can become extremely crowded.

Taxis and Private Transfers

Taxis are readily available but expensive - expect to pay around £25-30 for short journeys to neighbouring towns. For more flexibility, pre-booked private transfers can be arranged for day trips to Ravello, Positano, or other coastal destinations.

Water Transport

Local boat services complement the ferries from Salerno, offering an enjoyable way to visit nearby beaches and towns without navigating the winding coastal roads. These typically cost £10-20 per journey depending on distance.

Plan Your Perfect Amalfi Coast Adventure

The journey from Salerno to Amalfi by ferry represents one of the most scenic and convenient ways to experience this stunning coastline. With up to 9 daily sailings and journey times from just 25 minutes with operators like Alicost and Positano Jet, you can easily plan a day trip or longer stay in this picturesque destination.

Ferry travel allows you to avoid the notoriously winding coastal roads while enjoying breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs and charming villages from the water. Starting from around £45, these ferry services offer excellent value considering the experience and convenience they provide.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, family holiday, or solo adventure, we recommend booking your Salerno to Amalfi ferry tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer months when the 298 monthly sailings can fill up quickly. Start planning your perfect Amalfi Coast journey today!