How to Visit Amalfi by Ferry from Salerno in Southern Italy
Staying in Southern Italy and want to visit Amalfi by ferry from Salerno? We can help!
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most stunning destinations. It attracts travelers from around the world with its breathtaking views, charming villages, and delicious cuisine. However, reaching this coastal paradise can be a daunting task, especially for those unfamiliar with the area’s winding roads and challenging driving conditions.
If you are staying in Southern Italy, particularly in Calabria, there’s a much easier and more enjoyable way to reach Amalfi – by taking a passenger ferry from Salerno. Whether you’re driving or taking the train to Salerno, this ferry ride offers a stress-free alternative that allows you to sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning scenery as you cruise along the coast.
This post was written by Sharon DaSilva, one of our experts on Southern Italy. She will guide you through the steps to plan your trip, including how to get to Salerno, where to park or walk from the train station, and what to do once you arrive in Amalfi.
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Why Take the Ferry from Salerno to Amalfi
Taking the ferry from Salerno to Amalfi is a smart choice. This is the only way that I will visit Amalfi. First, it offers ease of travel. You can avoid the narrow, winding roads that make driving stressful (and dangerous), especially for those unfamiliar with the area. Instead, relax and enjoy the ride.
Additionally, the scenic views from the ferry are breathtaking. Make sure you have your camera accessible – you will take lots of photos! As you cruise along the water, you’ll see the stunning coastline in a way that’s impossible from the road. I have done this trip many times, and I never get tired of the views!
Moreover, the ferry port in Salerno is conveniently located. It’s just a short walk from the train station and close to safe parking options if you’re driving. This makes your journey to Amalfi not only beautiful but also hassle-free.
How to Get to Salerno from Calabria or Basilicata
Depending on where you are staying, you can drive to Salerno or take the train.
Driving from Calabria or Basilicata
From our house in San Nicola Arcella, in the northern part of Calabria, it takes approximately 2 hours to drive to Salerno. We use Google Maps and always bring our portable Wi-Fi with us.
If you are visiting Amalfi for the day, you can park in the lot closest to the ferry terminal, called Area di Sosta Piazza della Concordia. The parking lot is free and is a 5-minute walk to the terminal.
If you plan on staying in Amalfi for a couple of days, you will need a safe parking lot for overnight stays. On our last trip in August, we downloaded the app, Parclick, for parking options near the port. We chose EasyParking Salerno – Stazione and made a reservation.
The staff was waiting for us upon our arrival. The garage is a 15-minute walk to the port. On our return from Amalfi, we grabbed a taxi right across the street from the port (could have walked but we were exhausted from our weekend in Amalfi). When we got to the garage, our car was waiting for us! It was a super easy experience.
➡️ Reserve Your Spot – EasyParking Salerno – Stazione, Porto Aeroporto, Via Lucio Petrone, 1-7
Taking the Train to Salerno
If you’re staying in the regions of Calabria or Basilicata, one of the easiest and most scenic options is to take a train to Salerno. This is a comfortable and convenient way to travel, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the views of Southern Italy as you head north.
The train journey from Calabria to Salerno is straightforward. I personally take the train from Scalea, a small town in northern Calabria, but there are several other stations along the coast, such as Maratea, Paola, Tropea, or Lamezia Terme, where you can catch the train. Trains run frequently, but it’s always a good idea to check the schedule ahead of time on Trenitalia’s website or app.
Depending on your departure point, the journey can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. I recommend choosing a direct train to Salerno, if possible, to avoid unnecessary stops or transfers. The train is comfortable, with plenty of space to store luggage, and offers spectacular coastal views.
Once you arrive in Salerno, you’ll find the train station conveniently located near the Salerno Concordia Ferry terminal. From the station, it’s just a short 10 to 15-minute walk (600 meters) to the ferry terminal. Please refer to the map.
Taking the Ferry from Salerno to Amalfi
Now that you know how to get to Salerno, it is time to take the ferry to Amalfi.
Ferry Schedules and Ticketing Options
Booking your ferry tickets from Salerno to Amalfi is easy and can be done through several platforms. I personally recommend using Travelmar Traghetti, which offers reliable ferry services along the Amalfi Coast. You can book your roundtrip tickets directly through their website. Another option is to use the Direct Ferries app, which allows you to compare schedules and book tickets. When booking your tickets, the port of departure is Salerno Concordia.
Practical Tip: Ferry service runs Monday to Sunday, from April to October, including holidays.
Once you arrive at the Salerno ferry port, head to the ticketing area. Even if you’ve booked online, you’ll need to exchange your confirmation number for an actual boarding ticket. This is a simple process but be sure to arrive with enough time to spare in case there’s a line.
While waiting for your ferry, you can relax and soak in the lively atmosphere at the nearby café, where locals often gather to dance and play music. However, make sure to keep an eye on the time – the ferries leave promptly, and we’ve seen travelers who arrived just a few minutes late miss their departure!
Ferry Ride Duration
The ferry ride from Salerno to Amalfi takes about 35 to 40 minutes. It’s a short but incredibly scenic journey, giving you ample time to enjoy the stunning views without feeling rushed.
What to Expect During the Ferry Trip from Salerno to Amalfi
As soon as you board the ferry, find a seat—preferably on the top deck for the best views. The summer sun can be very hot, so I recommend wearing a hat and sunscreen. If you have luggage with wheels, you must put it below the staircase upon boarding the ferry. If you have carry-on bags, you can take them to your seat.
The trip offers a breathtaking perspective of the Amalfi Coast, passing by towering cliffs, colorful villages clinging to the hillsides, and the sparkling blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The ferry ride is smooth and comfortable, with plenty of opportunities to take photos or simply relax and enjoy the sea breeze.
During the trip, you’ll see famous towns like Cetara and Maiori from the water, and as you approach Amalfi, the town’s iconic cathedral and pastel-colored buildings come into view. This is a perfect introduction to the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, and arriving by ferry is an experience you won’t forget.
Arriving in Amalfi
Once you disembark the ferry, you can walk directly into the town. If you are visiting for the day, just roaming through the town is enjoyable. There are lots of places to eat and to shop.
Where to Stay in Amalfi
When it comes to accommodations in Amalfi, you have plenty of choices, from charming hotels to vacation rentals via VRBO. On our visit, we opted for a stunning apartment that offered breathtaking views of the town and coastline – something you won’t always find in hotels. We were able to walk from the ferry terminal to our apartment.
The apartment, aptly named “Perfect Getaway to Enjoy Amalfi” on VRBO, was a gem. It was 150 steps up through a quaint little village, providing a sense of seclusion and serenity while still being close to the heart of Amalfi.
The apartment featured two spacious bedrooms, a sleeper couch, 2.5 baths, a fully equipped kitchen, and a lovely balcony where you could take in the views. Upon our arrival, we were greeted with a thoughtful spread of fresh fruit, drinks, and snacks – such a warm welcome after the journey. The owner, Paola, was fantastic and easy to reach via WhatsApp, always ready to assist with any questions.
At an average cost of $504 per night, it’s well worth it for the unique experience and incredible vistas, making it an ideal option for a relaxing and memorable stay in Amalfi.
🎈Hotels: Click here to book your stay in Amalfi
Rental Properties: Click here to book your stay in Amalfi
My Trip Planning Resources
These are the companies that I use when planning our trips:
– Flights: WayAway
– Hotel Reservations: Booking.com & Hotels.com
– Vacation Rentals: VRBO
– Portable Wi-Fi: Ryoko Pro
– Rental Cars: DiscoverCars.com
– Train Tickets: Rail Europe
– Tours: Viator, Get Your Guide and GuruWalk
– Travel Insurance: VisitorsCoverage
– Airport Lounge Access Program: Priority Pass
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Where to Eat in Amalfi
During our visit, we had the pleasure of dining at a local favorite, Trattoria I Cartari. This charming spot is known for its authentic Italian cuisine, popular among residents and visitors alike. While the restaurant doesn’t have a website, making a reservation is essential as it tends to fill up quickly.
You can call them directly at +39 089 872131; they do speak English, so booking shouldn’t be an issue. The trattoria is located at Piazza della Spirito Santo, 5, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy.
For a truly special dining experience, we also visited Ristorante Il Refettorio, a Michelin-starred restaurant, in the Monastero Santa Rosa that was once a 17th-century Dominican monastery. Sitting on a cliff in Conca dei Marini, between Amalfi and Positano, this exclusive restaurant offers not only world-class cuisine but also stunning views of the Amalfi Coast.
Striking the perfect balance between seclusion and luxury, Monastero Santa Rosa provides an unforgettable dining experience. Here you can enjoy the rich history and culture of the region while indulging in refined Italian hospitality.
What to See & Do in Amalfi
Amalfi is a charming town full of things to see and do. Whether you’re strolling through its narrow streets, browsing the many boutique shops, or relaxing in one of the numerous cafés and restaurants, there’s always something to discover.
Amalfi is famous for its lemons, and no visit is complete without picking up a bottle of limoncello, the town’s signature liqueur. Our favorite spot to buy this is Cobalto, a family-owned shop located just to the right of the church (Duomo). They’ve been making limoncello for years, and the quality is unmatched.
If you are looking to explore Amalfi from a different perspective, we highly recommend renting a boat for the day. It’s the best way to see all the sights Amalfi has to offer from the water. We had an incredible time aboard a captained boat, taking in the views, learning about the rich history of the area, and soaking in the beautiful Mediterranean weather.
Our captain, Umberto Buonocore, made the day unforgettable. Born and raised in Amalfi, his deep knowledge of the region, coupled with his friendly demeanor and great sense of humor, made the experience truly special. If you’re interested in booking him, you can reach him at info@sailingamalficoast.it or visit him at Piazza Duomo, 39.
More Things to Do & See in Amalfi
If you want to roam around the town of Amalfi, here are a few sights you shouldn’t miss.
Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi): The town’s most iconic landmark, this stunning cathedral, located in the heart of Amalfi at Piazza Duomo, features a striking mix of Romanesque, Baroque, and Moorish architectural styles. Don’t miss the grand staircase leading up to the beautifully decorated facade and the Cloister of Paradise, a peaceful courtyard within the cathedral.
Paper Museum (Museo della Carta): Amalfi has a long history of papermaking, and this small but fascinating museum gives insight into the ancient techniques used to produce paper in the region. It’s an interesting stop if you are curious about Amalfi’s artisanal traditions. Every time I visit Amalfi, I always purchase writing paper and note cards.
The Amalfi Arsenal (Arsenale della Repubblica): A visit to the ancient shipyard and museum offers a glimpse into Amalfi’s maritime past when it was one of Italy’s four powerful maritime republics.
Final Thoughts: How to Visit Amalfi by Ferry from Salerno in Southern Italy
Taking the ferry from Salerno to Amalfi is a convenient, stress-free way to experience the Amalfi Coast. You can avoid the crowded coastal roads and enjoy the breathtaking views from the water. The ferry offers a smooth, scenic ride, allowing you to relax and start your Amalfi adventure with ease.
If you would like to explore more in Southern Italy, consider spending a night in Naples (Napoli). Read our post on 29 Best Things to Do in Napoli to get inspired! Or if you would like to see some of the best Greek architecture west of Greece, take a Day Trip to Paestum to see the Ancient Greek Temples.
Looking for assistance in planning your trip to Amalfi, Italy, we would be happy to help. Please refer to our Travel Planning services for further information or send us an email.
Want to explore more in Southern Italy? Check out the following posts:
Is San Nicola Arcella in Calabria Italy Worth Visiting? (By A Local)
Is Tropea in Calabria Italy Worth Visiting? (By A Frequent Visitor)
Is Maratea Italy Worth Visiting? (By a Local)
10 Beautiful Towns to Visit in Calabria in 2024 (By A Local)
