Travelling from Salerno to Amalfi: Complete Ferry & Travel Guide

Exploring the stunning Amalfi Coast by sea offers one of Italy's most scenic journeys. The ferry route between Salerno and Amalfi provides travellers with breathtaking views of dramatic coastlines and charming seaside towns. With multiple daily sailings and a journey time averaging just 39 minutes, this ferry connection is both convenient and picturesque. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about the Salerno to Amalfi ferry route, from operators and schedules to port information and things to do upon arrival.

Taking the ferry from Salerno to Amalfi

The Salerno to Amalfi ferry route is serviced by five operators: Alicost, Grassi Junior, NLG, Positano Jet, and Travelmar. With approximately 15 daily sailings, you'll have plenty of options to choose your preferred departure time. The earliest ferry departs at 07:40, while the latest leaves at 20:30, offering flexibility for day-trippers and overnight visitors alike.

Journey times vary depending on the vessel and operator, with the quickest crossing taking just 25 minutes and the longest around 1 hour 10 minutes. The average journey time is 39 minutes, making this a quick and efficient way to travel the 16.8 km (10.4 miles) between these beautiful coastal destinations.

All operators welcome foot passengers, and if you're travelling with a vehicle, you can use services provided by Alicost, NLG, or Positano Jet. Pet owners will be pleased to know that both NLG and Travelmar accommodate four-legged friends on board, making it easier to travel with your furry companions.

Navigating the Ports

Departure Port (Salerno)

Salerno's port is conveniently located at the eastern end of the town's seafront promenade. The terminal offers information points, restrooms, and cafés. Bus stops and the main train station are within walking distance, providing good connections to Naples, Rome, and other major Italian cities.

Arrival Port (Amalfi)

Amalfi's port is situated right in the heart of town, just steps away from the main piazza and cathedral. The small, well-organised terminal offers basic facilities including ticket offices and waiting areas. Local buses stop nearby, making it easy to reach the port from other Amalfi Coast towns.

Things to Do in Amalfi

While often overlooked in favour of its more famous Amalfi Coast neighbours, Amalfi offers plenty of attractions worth exploring:

Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo)

This magnificent 11th-century cathedral houses beautiful Byzantine bronze doors and the tomb of Pope Gregory VII. Don't miss the stunning crypt decorated with Baroque frescoes.

Lungomare di Amalfi

Amalfi's seafront promenade stretches for nearly 3 km, offering wonderful views of the Gulf of Salerno. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially at sunset.

Valle delle Ferriere

This beautiful nature reserve features stunning waterfalls and hiking trails, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling town.

Paper Museum

Discover the history of Amalfi's famous paper-making industry at this interesting museum, showcasing traditional techniques and tools.

Historic Centre

Wander through the atmospheric medieval streets and alleys of Amalfi's centro storico, where you'll find charming shops, traditional restaurants, and hidden piazzas.

Weather in Amalfi

Amalfi enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 25-30°C (77-86°F), while winter sees averages of 8-15°C (46-59°F). Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures around 15-25°C (59-77°F) with moderate rainfall, making them ideal for sightseeing.

Best Time to Visit Amalfi

The peak tourist season runs from June to August when the weather is hottest and ferry services are most frequent. However, this is also when the Amalfi Coast is most crowded and accommodation prices are highest.

May, September, and early October offer an excellent compromise with warm, sunny days, fewer crowds, and slightly lower prices. These shoulder months are perfect for exploring Amalfi's attractions in comfort.

Winter visits (November to March) offer the quietest experience and lowest prices, though some ferry services may be reduced. December brings the famous Luci d'Artista festival, when the city is decorated with spectacular artistic light installations, creating a magical atmosphere.

For food enthusiasts, visit during November for the chance to experience local olive oil and wine harvests, or in spring when local lemons and early summer produce feature prominently in regional dishes.

Getting Around Amalfi

Amalfi is a compact town best explored on foot, with most attractions within easy walking distance of the central Piazza Duomo. For trips to nearby coastal towns, the SITA bus network provides regular connections along the coast. These buses can get crowded during peak season, so plan journeys outside rush hours if possible.

Taxis are readily available but relatively expensive. For more freedom to explore the stunning coastline, consider hiring a scooter – a popular option for navigating the narrow coastal roads. Alternatively, water taxis and local boats offer scenic transportation between coastal towns, providing a different perspective of the magnificent coastline.

Your Perfect Salerno to Amalfi Adventure Awaits

The ferry journey from Salerno to Amalfi offers not just transportation but an unforgettable part of your Italian coastal experience. With 15 daily sailings operated by Alicost, Grassi Junior, NLG, Positano Jet, and Travelmar, you have plenty of options to plan your perfect trip. The quick 25-39 minute crossing gives you spectacular views of the dramatic coastline that simply can't be experienced any other way.

Whether you're travelling with vehicles (accommodated by Alicost, NLG, and Positano Jet) or bringing your four-legged friends (welcome on NLG and Travelmar services), the ferry crossing provides convenient access to this jewel of the Mediterranean. Book your ferry tickets now to begin your Amalfi adventure with the sea breeze in your hair and the stunning coastline as your backdrop.