When planning our trip abroad, I found the resources on how to actually get to Positano, Italy a bit scarce–there isn’t a lot out there other than Trip Advisor. Positano and many of the Amalfi Coast’s towns are surrounded by mountains on one side and sea on the other, requiring a bit more research and strategery in planning your arrival route/departure route. You can’t just hop on a train and land in Positano, as Positano doesn’t have a train station! So I thought I’d share some of my research and also tips that we found helpful en route.
There are two main ways to reach Positano from Rome or anywhere in mainland Italy:
- Take the train to Sorrento and then hop a bus or rent a car to take you up the windy, single lane coastal roads.
- Take the train to Salerno and hop a ferry to Positano.
We chose the ferry route as we both love being on the water and thought the boat ride would be a fun departure from our otherwise landlocked va-ca.
- We took the train from Rome to Salerno, using our Eurrail Pass, making sure to leave ourselves 1 hour+ to find the Travelmar ticket booth and purchase tickets.
- As you exit the train station, walk 3-4 blocks southwest towards the ocean. As you reach the sea, you should see a marina just beyond the parking lot. Cross through the parking lot and walk down onto the pier past lots of pretty boats, men tying fishing nets, etc.
- Look for a blue booth with the words “Biglietteria Traghetti” painted in white letters on it. It’s not labeled as Travelmar, but rest assured, this is where you’ll buy your ferry tickets. It’s very nondescript, and there wasn’t anyone working it when we first came upon it, but as it became closer to the departure time, the ticket booth attendant came back and we purchased tickets. Note: Tickets will also need to purchased for luggage if you have any with you.
- The ferry runs every few hours every day (including Sundays) from early Spring to late Fall. All excursions are of course weather permitting, so in case of stormy weather you can always hop a Blue Sita Bus to take you from Salerno to Positano. Though from what I hear, the schedule isn’t quite as convenient as the ferries. Nonetheless, it’s a great plan B.
- The ferry ride is super relaxing and there are tons of photo op’s from the boat. Though the ferry will be marked as Salerno– Positano, it may make a few stops at towns along the way, such as Maiori, Minori and Amalfi. Pay attention because they don’t announce which town they’re stopping at and the towns look similar from the water. You don’t want to get off too early!
- Every one seems to speak at least a little English so if you’re unsure ask around on the boat or find one of the crew members if need be. Everyone’s on vacation, in good spirits and are willing to help!
