How to Get to Positano and Get Around Without a Car

Why a car is more of a burden than a help in Positano

The town stretches upward, from the scenic road down to the shore, and its heart is a tangle of alleys and staircases. Cars can only go so far, and parking spots are few and expensive.

Then there is the Statale 163, a spectacular but narrow and winding road that can slow down considerably on peak days. Leaving the car behind and relying on public transport also means enjoying the scenery without having to watch only the road.

Reaching the coast: the most common starting points

Those arriving from afar usually rely on one of the region's major hubs: Naples, with its airport and central station, or Salerno. From Naples, the Circumvesuviana railway goes as far as Sorrento, from where you continue toward Positano along the coast. From Salerno you can choose between the road, with scheduled buses, and the sea.

Timetables, connections and frequencies change with the seasons: before setting off, always check the operators' official websites and the updated information at the stations.

By bus along the Statale 163

The scheduled bus is the most common way to enter Positano from Sorrento and Amalfi, and it links the town to several points along the coast. The route is long and scenic, so it is worth taking a few precautions:

• if you can, sit on the sea side to enjoy the view;
• avoid traveling with bulky suitcases during the busiest hours;
• be prepared for possible delays due to traffic, especially in high season;
• if you suffer from car sickness, bring something to help: the curves are continuous.

As with any transport service, check runs and ticket purchase options on official sources.

Arriving by sea: the seasonal ferries

In season, ferries connect Positano with Amalfi, Capri and Sorrento. It is often the most pleasant way to arrive: you see the town open up from offshore, with its houses cascading down the hillside, and you disembark right in front of the center, near Spiaggia Grande.

Be careful, though: sea connections depend on the time of year and sea conditions. In case of strong wind, runs may be reduced or suspended, so it is wise to have a road-based alternative. Always check the official channels of the shipping companies.

If you arrive by car anyway

Sometimes a car is unavoidable, for example on a longer trip along the coast. In this case it is best to plan ahead:

• keep in mind that available spaces are limited and parking is expensive;
• if you are staying at a property, ask in advance how to manage your arrival and where to leave the vehicle;
• consider parking in another town and continuing by bus or ferry;
• check any traffic and parking restrictions before setting off.

Even those who arrive by car will do almost everything on foot once in town.

Getting around on foot: stairs, alleys and luggage

Positano is best discovered by walking. To go from the road down to the beach you take staircases and alleys, and the way back is all uphill. A few tips will make your day easier:

• wear comfortable shoes with a good sole, preferably closed ones;
• travel light: a hard-shell suitcase on the stairs is awkward;
• if you are staying high up or far from the road, ask how to reach the property with your luggage;
• take breaks along the way, as there is no shortage of views.

For the evening, a stroll along the seafront is easy, but remember that the return uphill takes some stamina.

Beaches and hamlets without a car

Getting to other parts of the area is also possible without a car. For Fornillo beach there is a scenic footpath along the coast. The beaches of Arienzo and Laurito can be reached by stairs or, in season, by shuttle boats.

The upper hamlets, Montepertuso and Nocelle, can be reached by road or by the staircases. Nocelle is also the end point of the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) from Agerola, and those who walk it must then arrange their return. In any case, find out beforehand about local runs and path conditions.

A quick reminder before you go

To get around Positano well without a car, keep a few rules in mind:

• always check timetables and connections on official websites;
• have a backup plan for rough seas;
• bring light luggage and suitable shoes;
• leave a margin of time so you don't have to rush between connections.

The rhythm of the coast is slow, and it is best to go along with it.