Vacationing along the Amalfi Coast is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and there is no better way to explore than with a road trip from Positano to Salerno! These sunny cities are located on the southern coast of the Sorrentine peninsula along the Tyrrhenian Sea. Roads in this area tend to be low-speed with plenty of twists and turns, so you never know which fantastic view is just beyond the corner.
Two routes connect Positano to Salerno. You can take the coastal SS163 motorway east as it hugs the rugged cliff slide and overlooks the sea. This bird’s eye view of the endless sea is truly breathtaking (and with a private driver you’ll be glad you aren’t behind the wheel to navigate the narrow roads!). Drive through this UNESCO-listed landscape past villages like Ravello, groves of olives and lemons, and harbors full of yachts. One word of warning though: traffic can come to a standstill!
The SS145 highway takes you north into the Pompeii area and is a more urban driving environment. This path is slightly longer but allows you to visit famous sites like Pompeii and Stabiae. It's also less likely to be backed up with traffic.
About Salerno
Salerno is an ancient city with thousands of years of practice as an important port city for southern Italy. Its shores have brought people, products, and ideas from all over the world to and from Italy. As one of the largest cities around the Amalfi Coast, it is only natural that travelers make the trip from Positano to Salerno to reach the rest of mainland Italy.
Location, location, location
Salerno is nestled on the coast where the Sorrentine Peninsula meets greater Italy. It is located on the Tyrrhenian Sea's Gulf of Salerno and is the crossroads for travel to and from Sorrento and the Amali coast. The ancient Romans saw the great importance of having a port city in this spot and established Salerno in 197 BCE.
In the early Middle Ages, Salerno gained broader European recognition for the Salerno Medical School, which was Europe's first medical institution. Its doctors had extensive knowledge from all over the ancient Mediterranean world thanks to Salerno’s multicultural population and extensive trade. Practices and discoveries from Greek, Roman, Jewish, and Arab medical institutions were united under one roof to make medical advances and disseminate information through Salerno’s international trade routes.
### Salerno Airport (QSR)
After the long-awaited renovations, the Salerno Costa d'Amalfi Airport (QSR) is open to flights! This international airport began servicing London, Milan, Berlin, and other major European cities in July 2024. If you have been considering flights to the Amalfi Coast and were only looking at the Naples Airport, now travelers have a second option in Salerno.
The airport was exclusive to military and private use from 1926 until 2024, however after the completion of an extended runway and modern amenities, it is open to commercial flights. The entire project will not be completed until 2027, however, a section of the airport is open for limited service for airlines like EasyJet and Ryanair.
### Salerno today
The Port of Salerno is still a major hub for transporting goods; 10 million tons of cargo pass through its docks every year. It is usually travelers’ first or last destination as they visit the Amalfi Coast, due to its larger size and access to trains and buses (and now flights!). But it's more than just a transportation hub. Come for the beaches, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere!
From Positano to Salerno: travel tips
Whether it is your first time in Italy or you’re here every summer, everyone could use a little advice. Before embarking on your Positano to Salerno transfer, keep these tips in mind!
Be aware of pickpockets
Italy is a safe and fun destination, but pickpocketing is common in crowded areas. To keep your belongings safe, use bags that zip closed, don’t carry large amounts of cash, and keep your bags close to you in crowds.
Depart from Positano early in the day
Traffic on the Amalfi Coast's tight, mountainous roads can add time to your transfer that is best spent on the beach or touring Roman ruins. Avoid delays by departing Positano early in the morning, especially if you are going to Salerno for just a day trip.
How to get from Positano to Salerno
The Amalfi Coast is a stunning piece of the Italian peninsula, known for its rugged interior and sunny shores. However, its natural beauty makes it difficult to expand train lines or build highways. For your Positano to Salerno transfer, consider these travel options:
Private car transfer from Positano to Salerno
This region of Italy can be tricky to navigate- winding roads, hairpin turns, and tight city streets are not for nervous drivers. When you hire a private driver from Daytrip, an English-speaking local driver will provide door-to-door service and manage the driving so you can focus on enjoying your vacation.
Local drivers know the customs and laws of the road, and with Daytrip you have the added peace of mind that a taxi off the street cannot offer. As winners of Tripadvisor’s Travelers' Choice Award for the 8th consecutive year, we are the private transportation experts. Trips start at $30 (€28) per person- book yours today!
### Ferries from Positano to Salerno
Riding a ferry along the coast of Italy is a unique and awe-inspiring experience. Direct ferries for this route depart frequently with an average of 19 trips per day scheduled on the summer timetables (these are seasonal though). The journey takes 55 to 90 minutes and tickets are priced at $16 to $22 (€15 to €20).
The ports of Positano and Salerno are located right by the downtown bars, hotels, and restaurants. It may even be within walking distance from your hotel.
Before finalizing your decision to ride the ferry, check the weather and sea conditions. Ferries can be delayed or canceled due to storms or rough water. High waves will worsen the effects of seasickness and may upset young children.
### Buses from Positano to Salerno
SITA operates buses between Positano and Salerno, but it is an unreliable and uncomfortable mode of transportation, especially during summer.
Tickets cannot be purchased ahead of time for a guaranteed seat or specific departure time. You can buy an open ticket at most convenience stores or at the bus station for around $3 (€3), but you will have to stand at the bus stop and wait in line after purchase. The timetables are relatively accurate but infrequent. Buses make many stops and there is no direct option.
The bus will only allow passengers for which it has space, making even short-distance trips more complicated. During peak travel season, the buses fill up fast and you will be waiting for the next bus with space for all the passengers in your party. The entire ordeal is around 3 hours of travel, not including wait times.
Things to do when you get to Salerno
Whether you traveled from Positano to Salerno for just a day trip or plan to spend a few days here, stop by these cultural sites for a better understanding of Italian culture and history.
Duomo di Salerno (Cathedral of Salerno)
This 11th-century cathedral is dedicated to St. Matthew, the patron saint of Salerno. It has been renovated several times through the years, and the architectural features reflect Arab, Norman, Roman, and Byzantine influences. Its crypt is said to include St. Matthew’s remains as Catholic relics and is the resting place for several prominent religious leaders.
### Giardino della Minerva (Minerva Botanical Garden)
The Minerva Botanical Garden was established in the early 14th century by Matteo Silvatico, a renowned physician and botanist of the Salerno School of Medicine. It served as one of the earliest examples of a botanical garden designed for the cultivation of medicinal plants and Silvatico used it to educate medical school students in the identification and use of medicinal herbs.
Over centuries, the garden fell into disrepair but was eventually restored and reopened in 2001 as a historic and educational site.
### Castello di Arechi (Arechi Castle)
Arechi Castle looms above Salerno and has breathtaking views of Salerno, the Amalfi Coast, and the Tyrrhenian Sea. The castle is named after Prince Arechi II of Benevento, who significantly expanded and fortified the structure in the 8th century. However, its origins date back earlier. At night, its ramparts and towers are lit with floodlights and can be seen from all over Salerno.
Take a tour to see artifacts and learn about the military history of the region, or just take advantage of the stunning vantage point for panoramic photos.
### Italian bakeries
Little can be said about Italian bakeries except that you can never have enough. Once all of your beachcombing and touring has worn you out, stop by one for a quick pick-me-up. Delizia al Limone is a rich pastry delicacy found throughout the Amalfi Coast and is quite hard to find outside the area. Made with local lemons, this is a cake-like sphere that is tart, sweet, and surprisingly filling.
When is the best time to visit Salerno
For all the long days and warm shores of summer without the crowds and brutal heat, visit Salerno during April, May, or September. You will still have the quintessential Amalfi Coast experience but with milder weather perfect for hiking, midday strolls, and sunbathing.
Summer is the most popular time to visit, but you will be competing for limited hotel, restaurant, and transportation space. Italian summers are also oppressively hot and humid, which adds to the discomfort when the city fills up with vacationers.
Choose from riding a ferry, taking the bus, or hiring a private driver for your Positano to Salerno transfer. Each mode of transportation has its advantages and disadvantages depending on the season, weather, and the price you’re willing to pay.
Yes! Salerno is a quick 90-minute drive or ferry ride from Positano. You’ll have the whole day to explore, get lunch, and return to Positano by nightfall. And the drive itself is beautiful. Leave early in the morning to take advantage of the long, sunny days on the Amalfi Coast.
No, Positano does not have a train station. Any train travel to or from Positano has to be done in Naples, Sorrento, or Salerno. From these cities, you need to transfer to a bus or private car to complete your journey.
Hiring a private driver is the fastest, most reliable, and most flexible way to travel. Choose your departure and arrival points with door-to-door service and make sightseeing stops that interest you. Make every minute count on your vacation this year!
The bus is the cheapest way to travel. Tickets only cost $3 (€3), but unless you depart from the first few stations on the route, it is very difficult to get a seat during the summer. The low price isn’t worth the risk of losing half of your day to waiting.
$60 to $76 (€55 to €70), depending on your negotiation skills and the demand for taxis. With Daytrip, you can skip the negotiations and cash payments, and have the reassurance of 24/7 customer care and the ability to book your car ahead of time.
沿途参观这些景点
斯梅拉尔多洞穴
Filled with a green glow, there's an underwater nativity scene beneath the waters of this sea cave. Emerald Messiah
拉维罗
With its sweeping views and luscious gardens, this UNESCO-listed town has conquered the hearts of many artists and intellectuals. A Ravishing Rarity
斯塔比亚考古遗址
The remains of villas in this ancient Roman resort town show how the upper echelon lived 2000 years ago. Paradise Lost
波比亚别墅
Believed to be a royal vacation home, this opulent villa was buried by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, preserving its frescoes, and inhabitants. An Empress-ive Villa
波斯科·德·梅迪奇酒庄
This winery and resort lets visitors get a taste of local flavor through its fine wine and traditional local cuisine. A Taste of Pompeii
庞贝
Walk the streets of an ancient Roman city that was frozen in time 2000 years ago by the violent eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Flash Frozen
"Everything was great! We were stuck in Positano since all of the ferries were canceled, so getting this ride helped us make our train to Milan on time and make our flight home. We really appreciated the ability to find a driver on such short notice! Gennaro was very kind and gave us some information about the things we were passing along the Amalfi Coast, so it was almost like a mini tour instead of just a transfer. I would definitely recommend daytrip to others!
"
Lauren B.
United States
2024年9月13日
"Pasquale was fantastic!
We enjoyed great conversation, he was an excellent driver and was right on time.
He is a credit your organization!"
Kent S.
United States
2024年8月3日
"Thank you so much for helping us get from Positano to Salerno.
We had the greatest experience. Our driver was professional and got us where we needed to go safely and on time.
The price was a little high but honestly we couldn't find any other way to get where we needed to go so maybe it was just right."
Nancy D.
United States
2023年11月6日
"Franco G. was reliable, insightful, helpful and very friendly. A charming companion all the way from Positano to Salerno."
Mark M.
United Kingdom
2022年10月9日
"Aneillo C was a fantastic driver. He was on time and drove carefully which was a big deal to us. I would highly recommend your service and driver Aneillo to everyone!
"
Leslie B.
Italy
2022年8月14日
"Service was amazing!!
Helped us get to our destination in no time and with ease.
What a wonderful experience. Will use this again when I travel back."
Rob A.
United States
2022年5月30日
"The trip was perfect. Marco was punctual, communicative, and professional. Enjoyable drive and Marco was very happy to share everything he knows about the Amalfi coast as we drove. "
Danny L.
United States
2019年10月30日
"Good Morning,
The drive and experience was excellent. Michele was early and courteous. We changed the time and location 2 days in advance and received a very timely response to confirm the request was accepted. There were no complaints and it was overall a great experience and would recommend to others.
Thank you,
Laura BradyHR Business Partner
Hyland"
Laura B.
United States
2019年9月25日
"Luigi was great! Picked us up right on time. Super friendly and personable. And most importantly a very safe and conservative driver. He also took the most efficient route and dropped us at the Salerno train station even earlier than we expected. Great job!
"
Kenneth L.
2019年7月10日
"were both fantastic as their English was of a high standard, were extremely informative of the local area and we overall had a great chat with them. Highly recommend them both as well as the daytrip service as a whole. Our drivers were punctual and got us to our destinations in a timely manner. "
Emily S.
Australia
2018年10月4日
"Also, very good. The driver was there on time, was very pleasant, assisted with the baggage and we arrived in Salerno at the train station right on time. All in all, another great job by the daytrip team.
"
Victor F.
United States
2018年8月6日
"Rosario was great! He told us all kinds of things on our ride. He even stopped to let us take a picture! He was punctual and kind. Thank you Daytrip!
"
Theresa L.
2018年6月5日
"I wanted to let you know that our trip was excellent! Giovanni was a very good driver! We planned on going back along the Amalfi Coast, however, due to the time constraints and traffic Giovanni took us on the highway route with a stop at the Limoncello factory! That was a good stop for souvenirs. We arrived back at the ship with plenty of time to spare!
"
