Travelling from Sorrento to Amalfi: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Exploring the stunning coastline between Sorrento and Amalfi is one of Italy's most enchanting journeys. This picturesque route stretches approximately 25 km (15.5 miles) along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, offering travellers spectacular views of dramatic cliffs, colourful villages, and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. While road travel is an option, the ferry connection between these two gems of the Campania region provides the most scenic and stress-free experience. With up to 6 daily sailings and journey times as quick as 55 minutes, the ferry offers an efficient and memorable way to travel from Sorrento to Amalfi while avoiding the notoriously winding coastal roads. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about making this journey by sea.

How to get from Sorrento to Amalfi: Flights and Ferries

When planning your journey from Sorrento to Amalfi, you'll find that direct flights aren't available due to the short distance of just 25 km between these coastal towns. The closest airports to both destinations are Naples International Airport (for Sorrento) and Salerno Costa d'Amalfi Airport (for the Amalfi Coast), but neither provides a direct connection between the two towns themselves.

Ferry travel is undoubtedly the preferred and most practical option for travelling between Sorrento and Amalfi. The ferry journey covers approximately 13.5 nautical miles along the spectacular coastline, with an average journey time of 1 hour and 31 minutes. The fastest services, operated by NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo), can get you there in just 55 minutes, with tickets starting from around £51.

The sea route offers undeniable advantages over land travel. While buses and private transfers must navigate the narrow, winding Amalfi Coast road (which can become extremely congested during peak season), ferry passengers enjoy uninterrupted views of the coastline from a comfortable vantage point. You'll witness the dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and picturesque villages that make this UNESCO World Heritage coastline so famous, all while avoiding motion sickness that many experience on the twisting coastal road.

With up to 6 daily sailings and increased frequency during summer months (offering 31 weekly connections and approximately 140 monthly sailings), the ferry provides flexibility for both day-trippers and those staying longer in either destination.

Taking the ferry from Sorrento to Amalfi

You can take a ferry from Sorrento to Amalfi. Ferries sail in around 1 hour and 31 minutes with about 6 sailings a day. The fastest ferry sails in around 55 minutes and is provided by NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo). Ferry prices typically start from around £51 for the fastest services. Departures start as early as 09:00, with the last departure from Sorrento to Amalfi at 15:15.

NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo) is the primary operator offering the fastest services on this route. Their modern vessels are equipped with comfortable seating areas, both indoor and outdoor, allowing passengers to enjoy the spectacular coastal views. Most ferries feature onboard amenities including toilets, small refreshment bars selling drinks and snacks, and dedicated luggage storage areas. Some vessels have open-air upper decks that are perfect for photography enthusiasts wanting to capture the stunning Amalfi Coast from the water.

While the ferry service between Sorrento and Amalfi operates year-round, it's worth noting that frequency increases significantly during the high season (April through October). During winter months, services may be reduced and are more susceptible to cancellation due to adverse weather conditions. It's always advisable to check the latest schedules before planning your journey, especially if travelling outside the peak tourist season.

Most ferries on this route are passenger-only vessels, so if you're travelling with a vehicle, you'll need to consider alternative transportation options. However, this sea connection is primarily designed for tourists wanting to explore these coastal gems without the hassle of navigating the challenging coastal roads.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Sorrento)

Sorrento's main port, Marina Piccola, is located directly below the town centre at the base of the cliffs. If you're staying in central Sorrento, you can reach the port by taking the local bus or walking down the pedestrian path that winds from Piazza Tasso to the marina. For those who prefer to avoid the steep walk back up, there's a lift (elevator) service that connects the port with the town centre for a small fee.

If arriving from elsewhere, taxis are readily available throughout Sorrento and can drop you directly at the port entrance. For those driving, there are paid parking facilities near the marina, though spaces are limited and can be expensive during peak season.

The ferry terminal at Marina Piccola is relatively small but well-organised, featuring ticket offices where you can purchase last-minute tickets (though advance booking is recommended in high season), a small waiting area, toilet facilities, and a few cafés and shops nearby. It's advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for boarding.

Arrival Port (Amalfi)

Amalfi's port is conveniently located right in front of the town centre, making it incredibly easy to access the main attractions upon arrival. The ferry dock is just steps away from Piazza Flavio Gioia and the iconic Cathedral of St. Andrew (Duomo di Sant'Andrea).

Upon disembarking, you'll find yourself immediately immersed in Amalfi's charming atmosphere. The town is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with most attractions within easy walking distance from the port. For those looking to explore further afield, the SITA bus station is located just a short walk from the ferry terminal, offering connections to other Amalfi Coast towns like Positano, Ravello, and Salerno.

Near the port, you'll find tourist information points, numerous restaurants and cafés, public toilets, and ATMs. There are also several luggage storage facilities in town if you're visiting just for the day and want to explore unburdened.

Day Trip Possibilities

A day trip from Sorrento to Amalfi is not only feasible but highly recommended for travellers with limited time on the Amalfi Coast. With the earliest ferry departing Sorrento at 09:00 and the latest return sailing from Amalfi at around mid-afternoon to early evening (depending on the season), you can enjoy approximately 5-7 hours exploring Amalfi and its surroundings.

For an ideal day trip, consider taking the earliest ferry at 09:00, which would get you to Amalfi by around 10:00 if you opt for the fastest NLG service. This gives you ample time to explore the town's highlights, including the magnificent Duomo, the charming historic centre, and perhaps even a quick dip at the beach if visiting during summer.

A sample itinerary might include:

10:00-11:30: Visit the Cathedral of St. Andrew and its adjoining museum
11:30-13:00: Explore the historic paper mills and the Paper Museum
13:00-14:30: Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants
14:30-16:00: Stroll through the town centre, shop for local products, or relax at the beach
16:00-17:00: Have a gelato or coffee before catching your return ferry

If you'd like to see more than just Amalfi itself, you could take a quick SITA bus up to Ravello (approximately 25 minutes each way) for spectacular views, but this would require careful planning to ensure you don't miss your return ferry.

For those preferring a more relaxed experience, an overnight stay in Amalfi would allow for a deeper exploration of the town and its neighbouring villages without rushing.

Things to Do in Amalfi

Amalfi may be small in size, but it's rich in cultural heritage, natural beauty, and authentic Italian charm. Here are the top attractions to explore during your visit:

Duomo di Sant'Andrea (Cathedral of St. Andrew): This magnificent 9th-century cathedral dominates Amalfi's main square with its striking Arab-Norman architectural style. The impressive facade leads to a beautiful interior featuring the remains of St. Andrew. Don't miss the Chiostro del Paradiso (Paradise Cloister) with its interlacing Moorish arches. Open daily from 09:00-19:00 (shorter hours in winter), with an entrance fee for the museum and cloister.

Museo della Carta (Paper Museum): Housed in a 13th-century paper mill, this fascinating museum celebrates Amalfi's historic paper-making traditions. You can observe the traditional methods used to create the famous Amalfi paper and even try your hand at making some yourself. Open daily from 10:00-18:30, with guided tours available throughout the day.

Valle dei Mulini (Valley of the Mills): For those seeking natural beauty combined with history, a walk through this verdant valley reveals the ruins of Amalfi's ancient paper mills. The trail begins just behind the town centre and offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Accessible year-round during daylight hours, this free attraction provides excellent photo opportunities.

Amalfi Beach (Marina Grande): The town's main beach offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxation. While not as large as some other coastal beaches, its setting beneath the dramatic cliffs creates a uniquely picturesque environment. Beach clubs offer sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, or you can use the small public section for free.

Boat Tours: Seeing the Amalfi Coast from the water offers a completely different perspective. Numerous operators in the harbour offer short boat excursions to nearby grottos and hidden beaches, or longer trips to destinations like Positano and the island of Capri. Prices vary depending on the duration and destination.

Neighbourhood Guide

Amalfi's compact size means that most attractions are within a small area, but there are still distinct zones worth exploring:

Historic Centre: The heart of Amalfi surrounds the cathedral and Piazza del Duomo. This pedestrianised area features narrow medieval streets lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. It's where you'll find most of the main attractions and the liveliest atmosphere.

Marina Grande: The beachfront area offers a more relaxed vibe with seafront restaurants specialising in fresh catches of the day. It's perfect for sunset dining or a refreshing swim.

Atrani: Though technically a separate village, Atrani is just a 10-minute walk from Amalfi and offers a glimpse of coastal life without the tourist crowds. Its intimate piazza and authentic restaurants make it worth the short detour.

Valle dei Mulini: The residential areas extending up the valley behind Amalfi provide a more local experience. Here you'll find family-run restaurants serving traditional cuisine at more reasonable prices than the tourist centre.

Weather in Amalfi

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

Summer (June to August) brings average temperatures between 25-30°C (77-86°F), with July and August being the hottest months. These warm temperatures make it perfect for swimming and beach activities, though the midday heat can be intense for sightseeing. Rainfall is minimal during these months, and you can expect abundant sunshine.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F), ideal for exploring the town and hiking the coastal paths. These shoulder seasons bring fewer crowds while still offering generally good weather, though autumn sees an increase in rainfall, particularly in October and November.

Winter (December to February) is the quietest season, with temperatures typically between 8-15°C (46-59°F). While too cool for swimming, winter visitors can enjoy the authentic local atmosphere and significantly reduced tourist numbers. This is the rainiest period, with December and January seeing the most precipitation.

Weather can occasionally affect ferry operations, particularly during winter when strong winds and rough seas might lead to cancellations. During summer, ferries operate with high reliability, though occasional thunderstorms can cause temporary disruptions. If you're travelling outside the peak season (April-October), it's advisable to have flexible plans in case of weather-related schedule changes.

Cost of Visiting Amalfi

Amalfi, like much of the Amalfi Coast, tends to be on the pricier side compared to other Italian destinations, particularly during the high season from May to September.

For budget travellers, expect to spend a minimum of £80-100 per day, including a bed in a hostel or budget B&B (£40-60), meals from takeaways or self-catering (£20-30), and minimal attractions or activities. Ferry travel from Sorrento will add approximately £51 each way.

Mid-range travellers should budget around £150-200 daily, covering a decent hotel room (£100-150), meals at mid-range restaurants (£40-60), and some paid attractions or activities. A gelato costs around £2-3, while a cappuccino typically runs £2-2.50.

Luxury travellers can easily spend £300+ per day, with high-end hotels starting at £200 and rising steeply for sea-view rooms or suites. Dining at top restaurants might cost £70-100 per person, especially for seafood specialties with wine.

To save money, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) when prices drop but the weather remains pleasant. Eating at restaurants away from the main square or marina front can save 20-30% on meal costs, and purchasing a multi-site museum ticket offers better value than individual entries.

Best Time to Visit Amalfi

The peak tourist season in Amalfi runs from June through August, when the weather is hottest and most reliable. During these months, you'll find all attractions, restaurants, and services operating at full capacity, with the town buzzing with energy. However, this is also when accommodation prices reach their maximum, streets become crowded, and restaurants often require reservations days in advance. The ferry services run at their highest frequency during this period, with all 6 daily connections operating.

The shoulder seasons of late April to May and September to mid-October offer an excellent compromise. Temperatures remain pleasant (typically 18-25°C/64-77°F), the sea is warm enough for swimming, and while most tourist facilities are open, the crowds are noticeably thinner. Accommodation prices can be 20-30% lower than during peak season, and you'll have a better chance of experiencing local life. Ferry services still operate regularly during these periods, though perhaps with slightly reduced frequency.

The low season from November through March offers the most authentic experience of Amalfi as a living town rather than a tourist destination. Many hotels and restaurants close for winter renovations, but those that remain open offer their lowest rates. The weather is mild but can be rainy, with temperatures typically between 8-15°C (46-59°F). Ferry services are reduced during this period and more subject to weather-related cancellations.

For those interested in local culture, consider visiting during one of Amalfi's festivals. The Feast of Sant'Andrea on June 27th and November 30th features processions and celebrations, while the Byzantine New Year (August 31-September 1) recreates medieval pageantry with costumes and historical reenactments.

We recommend late May or September as the ideal times to visit Amalfi, offering the perfect balance of good weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowd levels while still maintaining reliable ferry connections from Sorrento.

Accommodation Options in Amalfi

Finding the perfect place to stay in Amalfi enhances your Italian coastal experience. The 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 are more reasonable while still being within walking distance of major attractions. Solo travellers might enjoy the social atmosphere of family-run guesthouses where rates typically start from £60 per night.

Couples seeking romance will find charming boutique hotels housed in converted historic buildings along the coastline. These intimate properties offer stunning sea views, though expect to pay a premium of £150+ per night during peak season.

Families should look into apartment rentals or larger hotels slightly removed from the centre, offering more space and often including kitchenettes for self-catering. Many family accommodations provide shuttle services to the beach and town centre.

We recommend booking accommodations 3-6 months in advance, especially if visiting during the summer months when availability becomes limited and prices increase significantly.

Getting Around Amalfi

Navigating Amalfi and its surrounding areas is part of the coastal experience, with several transportation options available to visitors.

The SITA bus network is the backbone of public transportation along the Amalfi Coast, connecting Amalfi to neighbouring towns with frequent services. Purchase tickets from tobacco shops or newsstands before boarding (around £2-4 per journey).

For more flexibility, taxis are readily available but come at a premium price. Expect to pay approximately £20-30 for short journeys within Amalfi. Pre-negotiating fares is recommended.

Renting a scooter is popular among visitors, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace while avoiding parking challenges that car rentals present. Scooter rentals start from around £40 per day.

Walking remains the best way to experience Amalfi town itself, as the historic centre is compact and pedestrianised. Comfortable shoes are essential for navigating the many steps and inclines.

For those wanting to explore the coastline, the ferry services that brought you to Amalfi also offer hop-on-hop-off options, making it easy to visit multiple coastal towns without dealing with road traffic.

Your Perfect Italian Coastal Journey Awaits

Travelling from Sorrento to Amalfi by ferry transforms your journey into an unforgettable part of your Italian adventure. With multiple daily sailings, competitive prices starting from £51, and journey times as quick as 55 minutes with NLG ferries, this sea route offers both convenience and breathtaking scenery.

As you glide across the 13.5 nautical miles separating these iconic destinations, you'll enjoy unparalleled views of the dramatic coastline that no land journey can match. With 6 daily sailings and 31 weekly options to choose from, planning your perfect itinerary becomes effortless.

Whether you're seeking the romance of Amalfi's historic charm or the vibrant atmosphere of Sorrento, the ferry connection between these coastal gems provides the ideal starting point for your Mediterranean escape. Book your ferry tickets today and begin your journey along one of Italy's most celebrated coastlines.