Travelling from Salerno to Positano: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

The journey from Salerno to Positano offers one of the most scenic coastal routes along Italy's famous Amalfi Coast. While the distance between these two gems is just 18.4 miles (29.6 km), the journey transforms into an unforgettable experience when taken by ferry. With 11 daily sailings connecting these destinations, ferries provide the most picturesque and convenient way to travel, allowing you to avoid the winding coastal roads and instead enjoy breathtaking views from the sea. The fastest ferry service, operated by Alicost, can get you there in just 55 minutes for around £87. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, this guide covers everything you need to know about travelling from Salerno to Positano by ferry.

How to get from Salerno to Positano: Ferries

Travelling the 16 nautical miles between Salerno and Positano is most enjoyably done by ferry. With the journey taking an average of 1 hour and 13 minutes, it's not only scenic but also efficient. The ferry route is well-serviced with 11 daily sailings, accumulating to 73 weekly connections and an impressive 332 monthly sailings.

The fastest operator on this route is Alicost, offering journeys of just 55 minutes for approximately £87. This makes the ferry not only a beautiful way to travel but also reasonably priced considering the views and experience you'll enjoy. The longer ferry journeys can take up to 1 hour and 45 minutes, but these often include more scenic routing or additional stops.

What makes the ferry particularly appealing is the stunning perspective it offers of the Amalfi Coast. Unlike road travel, which can be congested especially during summer months, the ferry provides uninterrupted views of the dramatic coastline, with its towering cliffs and picturesque villages perched above the Mediterranean.

Taking the ferry from Salerno to Positano

You can take a ferry from Salerno to Positano. Ferries sail in around 1 hour and 13 minutes with about 11 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 55 minutes and is provided by Alicost. Ferry prices are typically around £87 for the fastest service. Departures start as early as 07:50, with the last departure from Salerno to Positano at 20:25.

Alicost is the primary operator serving this route, known for their reliable and efficient service. Their vessels are modern and comfortable, providing a smooth journey along the spectacular Amalfi coastline. The company operates high-speed ferries that make the journey particularly efficient.

Onboard the ferries, you can expect comfortable seating, clean facilities, and often refreshment services. Most vessels feature both indoor air-conditioned seating areas and outdoor deck space where you can enjoy the Mediterranean breeze and capture stunning photographs of the coastline. We recommend securing a spot on the outdoor deck, especially on clear days, as the views are truly spectacular.

The service operates year-round, though frequency increases significantly during the summer tourist season. In peak season (June through September), we recommend booking your tickets in advance, as ferries can fill up quickly with tourists eager to experience the Amalfi Coast from the water.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Salerno)

Salerno's ferry terminal (Molo Manfredi) is conveniently located near the city centre, approximately a 15-20 minute walk from the central train station. If you're arriving by train, you can either walk along the seafront promenade or take a quick taxi ride to the port.

The port itself is well-organised with clear signage. There's a ticket office where you can purchase tickets if you haven't done so online, though we strongly recommend booking in advance during high season. The terminal has basic facilities including restrooms, a small waiting area, and some vending machines. There are also several cafés and restaurants within walking distance where you can grab a coffee or snack before departure.

If you're arriving by car, there are several parking options near the port, though they can be expensive for long-term parking. Public transportation in Salerno is reliable, with buses connecting major points in the city to the port area.

Arrival Port (Positano)

Positano's port is small and charming, situated at the bottom of the village. Upon arrival, you'll immediately be greeted by the iconic view of colourful buildings cascading down the hillside.

From the port, the centre of Positano is accessible by foot, though be prepared for a climb as the town is built vertically along the cliffside. The main beach (Spiaggia Grande) is right by the ferry dock, making it easy to immediately start enjoying Positano's coastal charm.

For those staying in accommodations higher up in the village, there are porter services available to help with luggage, as many hotels are only accessible by stairs. Alternatively, local taxis can take you up to higher points in the village, though these can be expensive for short distances.

Near the port, you'll find several restaurants, shops, and beach clubs. Public restrooms are available, and there are information points where you can get maps and tourist information during the high season.

Day Trip Possibilities

A day trip from Salerno to Positano is not only feasible but highly recommended. With the earliest ferry departing at 07:50 and the last return sailing at 20:25, you can enjoy a full day exploring this picturesque coastal town.

For an ideal day trip, we suggest catching one of the morning ferries, which would get you to Positano before 10:00. This gives you ample time to explore the town, enjoy the beaches, and experience the local cuisine before catching an evening ferry back to Salerno.

A suggested itinerary might look like this:

Morning: Arrive in Positano and start with a coffee at one of the cafés near the port. Then explore the narrow streets winding up the hillside, browsing the boutique shops selling locally-made sandals, ceramics, and linen clothing.

Midday: Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant, sampling fresh seafood and local specialties. After lunch, spend some time relaxing on Spiaggia Grande or the quieter Fornillo Beach.

Afternoon: Visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta with its distinctive majolica-tiled dome, then climb higher into the village for panoramic views of the coast.

Evening: Have an early dinner at one of Positano's renowned restaurants before catching the ferry back to Salerno. The journey back offers stunning sunset views of the coast if you time it right.

If a day trip doesn't provide enough time to fully experience Positano, consider staying overnight. Even a one-night stay allows you to experience the town after the day-trippers have left, when it takes on a more relaxed and authentic atmosphere.

Things to Do in Positano

Positano offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty. Here are the top attractions to experience:

Spiaggia Grande

The main beach of Positano is bustling with activity and lined with colourful umbrellas. Despite being busy, it's a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning backdrop of the village. The beach is open daily, with beach clubs offering sun loungers and umbrellas for a fee.

Church of Santa Maria Assunta

This 13th-century church with its distinctive dome is the architectural centrepiece of Positano. Inside, you'll find a Byzantine icon of the Black Madonna. The church is open daily for visitors, though hours may vary during religious services.

Path of the Gods (Il Sentiero degli Dei)

For the more adventurous, this hiking trail offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast. The full trail runs between Bomerano and Nocelle (a fraction of Positano), with the section nearest to Positano involving a descent of about 1,500 steps. It's best hiked in the morning before the heat of the day.

Fornillo Beach

Less crowded than Spiaggia Grande, this beach is accessible via a coastal path from the main beach. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere with several beach clubs and restaurants. It's perfect for those seeking a quieter beach experience.

Shopping in Positano

The town is famous for its fashion, particularly handmade sandals, colourful ceramics, and linen clothing. The streets leading up from the beach are lined with boutiques selling locally-made goods. Most shops are open from around 10:00 to 20:00, with some closing for a few hours in the afternoon.

Neighbourhood Guide

Positano is a small town, but it has distinct areas worth exploring:

Lower Town: The area around the port and Spiaggia Grande is the heart of tourist activity, filled with restaurants, shops, and beach clubs. It's bustling during the day and offers spectacular sea views.

Upper Town: As you climb higher into Positano, the streets become quieter and more residential. Here you'll find smaller, more authentic restaurants and breathtaking panoramic views of the entire coastline.

Nocelle: This small hamlet above Positano offers an escape from the crowds. It's the endpoint of the Path of the Gods and provides stunning views. It's connected to Positano by bus or a long staircase of over 1,500 steps.

Fornillo: This area to the west of the main beach has its own smaller beach and a more laid-back atmosphere. It's perfect for those seeking a bit more tranquillity while still being close to all amenities.

Weather in Positano

Positano enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The peak tourist season runs from May to October when temperatures typically range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with July and August being the hottest months.

Summer brings clear blue skies and warm sea temperatures perfect for swimming. However, it's also when the town is most crowded and accommodation prices are at their highest.

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal times to visit. During these shoulder seasons, you can still enjoy outdoor activities and sea bathing, with temperatures typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

Winter months (November to March) are quieter, with many restaurants and hotels closing for the season. Temperatures rarely drop below 10°C (50°F), but rainfall increases significantly. While ferry services operate year-round, they can occasionally be affected by rough seas during winter storms, so it's advisable to check the forecast if travelling during this period.

Cost of Visiting Positano

Positano is known as one of the more expensive destinations along the Amalfi Coast, but with some planning, it can be enjoyed on various budgets:

Budget travellers should expect to spend at least £100-150 per day, including modest accommodation, casual dining, and some activities. Consider staying in nearby towns like Praiano or even Salerno for more affordable options and commuting to Positano by ferry.

Mid-range travellers can expect costs of £150-300 per day, which would include a decent hotel in Positano, meals at good restaurants, and activities like boat tours.

Luxury travellers can easily spend £300+ per day on high-end hotels with sea views, fine dining, and exclusive experiences.

Some specific costs to consider:

A meal at a casual restaurant: £15-25 per person
A meal at a high-end restaurant: £50-100+ per person
Coffee at a café: £2-4
Beach club entry with sun lounger: £15-30 per day
Local bus ticket: £2-3
Boat tour along the coast: £40-100 depending on duration and exclusivity

To save money, consider having picnic lunches, using the public beach areas (though these can be crowded), and travelling during shoulder season when prices are lower.

Best Time to Visit Positano

The ideal time to visit Positano depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities:

Peak Season (June to August): Expect hot weather, crowded beaches, and a vibrant atmosphere. All restaurants, shops, and attractions are open, and the sea is perfect for swimming. However, prices are at their highest, and the narrow streets can become very congested. Advance booking for ferries, restaurants, and accommodations is essential.

Shoulder Season (April to May and September to October): These months offer the perfect balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more reasonable prices. The sea is still warm enough for swimming, especially in September and early October. Many consider late September to be the absolute best time to visit, as the summer crowds have departed but the weather remains beautiful.

Off-Peak Season (November to March): Positano becomes much quieter, with many businesses closing for winter. However, if you're interested in experiencing the authentic local life and don't mind the possibility of rain, this can be a charming time to visit. The Christmas period sees some businesses reopening for the holidays, creating a festive atmosphere.

For those primarily interested in hiking the Path of the Gods or exploring the region beyond the beaches, spring and autumn offer ideal conditions with comfortable temperatures and spectacular wildflowers or autumn colours.

Notable events include Easter celebrations in April, the Feast of San Vito (Positano's patron saint) in June, and various music and cultural festivals throughout the summer months.

Accommodation Options in Positano

Finding the perfect place to stay in Positano enhances your Amalfi Coast experience, with options catering to every budget and preference.

For budget-conscious travellers, look for guesthouses and B&Bs in the upper part of town, where prices typically range from £80-150 per night. While Positano is known for luxury, these accommodations offer charm without the premium price tag of seafront properties.

Couples seeking romance might prefer boutique hotels clinging to Positano's cliffs, offering spectacular views. Mid-range options start around £150-250 per night, while luxury properties can exceed £500 during peak season.

Families often find apartment rentals most practical, providing multiple bedrooms and kitchen facilities. Many family-friendly options are available slightly away from the beach area, ranging from £200-400 per night depending on size and location.

For the best value, consider booking well in advance, especially if travelling between May and September when availability becomes limited and prices peak.

Getting Around Positano

Navigating Positano presents unique challenges and charms due to its vertical landscape built into steep cliffs.

Walking is the primary mode of transportation within Positano itself, though be prepared for numerous stairs and inclined pathways. Comfortable shoes are essential! The main beach area connects to shopping and dining districts via picturesque pedestrian walkways.

Local buses operate within Positano and connect to neighbouring towns, providing an affordable option at approximately £2 per journey. The SITA bus network is particularly useful for reaching nearby Amalfi, Ravello, and Sorrento.

Taxis are readily available but expensive, with short journeys starting around £20. For day trips, consider hiring a private driver (£250-350 per day) who can navigate the winding coastal roads while you enjoy the scenery.

Water taxis provide a scenic alternative for coastal exploration, operating from Positano's main pier with rates from £25 for short hops to neighbouring beaches.

Your Perfect Italian Coastal Journey Awaits

The Salerno to Positano ferry route offers one of the most scenic and convenient ways to experience the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. With 11 daily sailings and a journey time averaging just 1 hour 13 minutes, you can easily swap the urban energy of Salerno for Positano's postcard-perfect charm.

Alicost provides the fastest service at just 55 minutes for approximately £87, representing excellent value considering the spectacular coastal views you'll enjoy along the way. With departures starting as early as 07:50 and running until 20:25, the flexible schedule accommodates both day-trippers and those beginning a longer stay.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, family holiday, or solo adventure, the ferry journey between these two Italian gems forms an unforgettable part of your Amalfi Coast experience. The convenience of arriving directly into Positano's harbour, avoiding the challenging coastal roads and limited parking, makes ferry travel the smart choice for savvy travellers.

Book your Salerno to Positano ferry tickets today and prepare for an authentic Italian coastal adventure that begins the moment you step aboard.