15/12/2021
The allure of the Amalfi Coast is undeniable, with its dramatic cliffside villages, azure waters, and delectable cuisine. However, many travellers find themselves wanting to experience the energetic buzz of Naples, the birthplace of pizza and a city steeped in history and culture. The most convenient gateway to the Amalfi Coast with a direct train link to Naples is Vietri sul Mare, the easternmost town. This guide will walk you through the best ways to travel from Vietri sul Mare to Naples, whether you're heading to the city centre or the international airport.
Travelling from Vietri sul Mare to Naples City Centre by Train
The most straightforward and popular method for travelling from Vietri sul Mare to Naples is by train. Vietri sul Mare boasts the only train station on the entire Amalfi Coast, making it the essential starting point for your rail journey. The train service is frequent and efficient, allowing you to reach the heart of Naples in just over an hour.
The Train Journey Explained
Trains depart from Vietri sul Mare and arrive at Napoli Centrale, which is Naples' primary train station. This station is a major hub, perfectly situated for you to begin your exploration of the city. From Napoli Centrale, you can easily access public transport, taxis, and it's within walking distance of many key attractions.
The average journey time by train between Vietri sul Mare-Amalfi and Naples is approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes. You'll find a good number of trains running throughout the day, with around 49 trains per day operating on this route. This means you have flexibility in choosing a departure time that suits your schedule.
Benefits of Taking the Train
- Convenience: Direct service from the Amalfi Coast's only train station to Naples' central station.
- Speed: A relatively short journey time, allowing more time for sightseeing.
- Frequency: Numerous departures throughout the day offer flexibility.
- Comfort: Trains generally offer a comfortable way to travel, with space to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Getting to Vietri sul Mare Station
If you are starting your journey from other towns along the Amalfi Coast, such as Positano, Amalfi, or Ravello, you will first need to reach Vietri sul Mare. The most common way to do this is by taking a SITA SUD bus. These buses are a reliable and scenic way to navigate the winding coastal roads. Simply catch a SITA SUD bus from your starting town, and it will take you directly to Vietri sul Mare in good time. Once in Vietri sul Mare, the train station is typically well-signposted and easy to find.
Vietri sul Mare to Naples Airport (Aeroporto Internazionale di Napoli Capodichino)
For those flying out of Naples, or wishing to connect to international flights, you'll need to reach Naples Capodichino Airport (NAP). There are a couple of ways to achieve this from Vietri sul Mare.
Option 1: Direct Bus Service
Pintour operates a direct bus service from Vietri Sul Mare to Naples Capodichino Airport. This is a convenient option as it takes you directly to the airport terminal without the need for changes.
Key details for the Pintour bus:
- Frequency: Buses run every 4 hours.
- Journey Time: Approximately 54 minutes.
- Cost: Tickets are priced at €20.
It's worth noting that other operators also service this route, so it's always a good idea to check for the most up-to-date schedules and potential alternatives.
Option 2: Train to Naples and then Airport Transfer
An alternative approach involves taking the train to Naples Centrale and then transferring to the airport.
The process:
- Take the train from Vietri sul Mare to Napoli Centrale. As mentioned, this journey takes approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes.
- From Napoli Centrale, you can catch the Alibus, Naples' dedicated airport shuttle bus. The Alibus runs frequently between Napoli Centrale, Piazza Garibaldi, and Naples Capodichino Airport. The journey on the Alibus typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
Train to Naples Centrale from Salerno:
While the direct information provided is for Vietri sul Mare, it also mentions Trenitalia operating trains from Salerno to Napoli Centrale. Salerno is a major city adjacent to Vietri sul Mare and also has a train station. If you happen to be closer to Salerno, you could consider this option. The train journey from Salerno to Napoli Centrale is hourly, takes about 41 minutes, and tickets range from €4 - €9.
Comparing Airport Transfer Options:
| Method | Departure Point | Arrival Point | Approx. Time | Approx. Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pintour Bus | Vietri sul Mare | Naples Airport (NAP) | 54 mins | €20 | Direct service |
| Train + Alibus | Vietri sul Mare (to Napoli Centrale) + Napoli Centrale (Alibus) | Naples Airport (NAP) | ~1 hr 17 mins (train) + ~20 mins (Alibus) = ~1 hr 40 mins | Train fare + Alibus fare (check current prices) | Requires a change at Napoli Centrale |
Exploring Naples: What to See and Do
Upon arrival in Naples, whether at the central station or the airport, you'll find yourself in a city brimming with attractions. Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its historic centre, which is one of the largest in Europe.
Must-See Attractions:
- Historic Centre (Centro Storico): Wander through narrow streets, discover ancient churches, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss Spaccanapoli, the street that literally splits the city in two.
- National Archaeological Museum: Home to an unparalleled collection of Roman artefacts, many of which were excavated from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
- Naples Cathedral (Duomo di Napoli): A stunning cathedral with a rich history, most famous for housing the blood of San Gennaro.
- Castel dell'Ovo: A striking seaside castle offering panoramic views of the Bay of Naples.
- Pizza: Of course, no visit to Naples is complete without indulging in authentic Neapolitan pizza. Seek out traditional pizzerias for a truly memorable culinary experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is there a direct train from Amalfi town to Naples?
A1: No, there is no direct train from Amalfi town itself. You need to travel to Vietri sul Mare, which is the only town on the Amalfi Coast with a train station, to catch a train to Naples.
Q2: How do I get from other Amalfi Coast towns (like Positano or Amalfi) to Vietri sul Mare station?
A2: The most common method is to take a SITA SUD bus from your town along the coast to Vietri sul Mare.
Q3: Can I buy train tickets in advance?
A3: Yes, you can usually buy train tickets in advance from the Trenitalia website or app, or at the station. Booking in advance can sometimes secure better prices, especially for longer journeys, though for this regional route, it's often straightforward to buy on the day.
Q4: What is the best way to get to Naples Airport from the Amalfi Coast?
A4: The most direct option is the Pintour bus from Vietri sul Mare to Naples Airport, taking about 54 minutes for €20. Alternatively, you can take the train to Napoli Centrale and then catch the Alibus airport shuttle.
Q5: How frequent are the trains from Vietri sul Mare to Naples?
A5: There are approximately 49 trains per day on this route, offering a high level of frequency and flexibility.
Travelling from the beautiful Amalfi Coast to the vibrant city of Naples is a journey made simple by the efficient train and bus services available. By understanding your options from Vietri sul Mare, you can ensure a smooth transition to exploring the rich culture, history, and, of course, the world-famous pizza that Naples has to offer.
If you want to read more articles similar to Amalfi Coast to Naples: Your Travel Guide, you can visit the Transport category.