How to get to Sorrento from Naples or Rome

Nestled in the Campania region of southern Italy, Sorrento serves as a perfect base for exploring the breathtaking Amalfi Coast and the beautiful islands of Capri and Ischia before starting your cruise.

Traveling to Sorrento from either Naples and Rome does not have to be complicated. Whether you take the high-speed train, drive through the scenic Italian countryside, or opt for a leisurely ferry ride across the sparkling Gulf of Naples, your adventure to Sorrento will be easy if you plan in advance, and book before you leave home.

Once you arrive in Sorrento, you’ll be captivated by its lovely blend of Italian traditions, colorful marinas, bustling piazzas, and mouthwatering culinary offerings.

Transport Options from Naples

You have several transportation options when planning your trip from Naples to Sorrento. This article will cover the most popular travel methods – by train, bus, and private transfer.

By Train

Taking a train is an affordable and convenient way to travel from Naples to Sorrento. The Campania Express train offers a direct route from Napoli Centrale the train station in Sorrento, opposite Piazza Angelina Lauro. Tickets cost about 16 euros, and the journey takes just over an hour. Train schedules can be found online, and the trains run directly with no transfers required.

We like to use Omio to book train tickets in Italy, the website is in English, very user-friendly, and you can pay in your currency. In addition, the website allows you to compare prices across all the major train lines in Italy.

By Bus

FlixBus operates a bus from Naples to Sorrento, with tickets costing between €10 and €20. The journey takes around 1h 40m. Buses leave from Metropark Centrale in Naples, but remember to always check the Flixbus website for up-to-date information and timetables.

Private Transfer

Consider booking a private transfer for a more comfortable and personalized transportation option. This allows you to book a pickup time that suits you and enjoy the convenience of door-to-door service.

Prices for private transfers with trusted suppliers such as Viator may vary depending on the type of vehicle and number of passengers. We have paid around 80 euros per person for 2 people in a private car, however the price per person will reduce if you are more who people who share the same car. It’s pricey, but it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking stress-free transportation to Sorrento.

Transport Options from Rome

By Train

Taking the train is a convenient and fast way to travel from Rome to Sorrento. First, catch a train from Roma Termini station to Napoli Centrale. Italo or Trenitalia’s Frecciaargento are the best trains to use for this trip, as the journey time is fast at just over one hour. Ticket prices range from €14 – €65 depending upon when you travel.

Once you arrive in Naples, you change trains to the Campania Express and travel onwards to Sorrento. Tickets cost about 16 euros, and the journey takes just over an hour. Both of these tickets are purchased separately and we recommend you book train tickets in advance before leaving home.

By Bus

Another option is to take a direct bus from Rome’s Tiburtina Bus station to Sorrento. The bus ride typically takes around 4h 25m, and ticket prices range from €16 – €35. Although it isn’t the fastest option, it is more budget-friendly and provides a scenic route through the Italian countryside.

Private Transfer

If you prefer a door-to-door service, a private transfer from Rome to Sorrento allows you the luxury of a private car and driver, ensuring a more relaxed journey. Prices may vary, but they usually start around €250. This option is ideal if you have a larger budget and value convenience and flexibility during your travel.

Sorrento Highlights

Piazza Tasso

When visiting Sorrento, you should check out Piazza Tasso, the city’s central square. It is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a great spot for people-watching, dining, or simply soaking up the atmosphere. Grab a coffee, relax by the historic statue of the poet Torquato Tasso, and enjoy the vibrant energy of this bustling square. If you are there in the evening and looking for a good restaurant, try the Mediterranean food and Italian pastries at ‘O Canonico 1898.

Marina Grande

Don’t miss out on the charming Marina Grande, a picturesque harbor used by local fishermen for over 2,000 years. Despite its name, Marina Grande is quite small, but it offers a quaint and authentic atmosphere. Stroll along the waterfront lined with colorful fishing boats and treat yourself to some delicious fresh seafood at one of the many excellent restaurants in the area – we loved Bagni Delfino, with its romatic terrace overlooking the sea.

Sedil Dominova

Take a walk in Sorrento’s historic center, where you’ll come across the fascinating Sedil Dominova – a 15th-century building with beautiful frescoed loggia. While it used to be a meeting place for the aristocratic society, it now serves as the headquarters for the “Mutuo Soccorso” society, preserving the cultural heritage of Sorrento.

Cathedral of St. Philip and St. James

Make sure you visit the Cathedral of St. Philip and St. James, an important religious landmark from the 15th century. This beautiful cathedral has a striking interior with marble columns, an impressive wooden ceiling, and stunning works of art.

Day Trips from Sorrento

Sorrento is ideally situated for a exciting day trips to Pompeii, Capri, the Amalfi Coast, and Positano.

Pompeii

A trip to Pompeii, the ancient Roman city buried beneath volcanic ash after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, is a must for history lovers. From Sorrento, you can easily travel by train to Pompeii to marvel at this well-preserved site. The journey usually takes around 30 minutes. Once there, you can:

• Explore the ruins of temples, villas, and public buildings
• Marvel at the frescoes and mosaics in the ancient homes
• Learn about the everyday lives of the residents who once called Pompeii home

Friendly tip: Remember to wear comfortable shoes; there are many cobblestones, and a lot of walking is required. You can join a group tour with guide at the gate if there are available places, but ideally book a guided tour before you get there to ensure you don’t miss out. Pompeii is definitely better seen with a guide.

Capri

The beautiful island of Capri, located just a short ferry ride from Sorrento, is another great option for a day trip. The charming town is known for its stunning landscape, crystal-clear waters, and lush gardens. When visiting Capri, we love to:

• Take a boat tour to the famous Blue Grotto
• Stroll around the charming Piazzetta for shopping and people-watching
• Hike to the top of Monte Solaro for panoramic views of the island

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and a host of charming villages to explore. Rent a car or hop on a bus from Sorrento for a scenic drive along the coast. It’s hard to fit everything into one day, but some of the most things to do are:

• Visit the town of Amalfi and visit the beautiful Amalfi Cathedral
• Wander the narrow streets and sample local delicacies in the charming cities like Ravello and Scala
• Capture stunning photos of the dramatic coastal cliffs and lush terraced gardens

Positano

The picturesque village of Positano is famous for its colorful buildings, steep streets, and chic atmosphere. This charming destination is easily accessible from Sorrento and offers plenty of activities for a memorable day trip. Be prepared for crowds if you travel in high season. You will walk shoulder to shoulder with other sun-seekers and buses are often standing-room only.

• Relax on the Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach
• Browse the boutique shops for unique clothing, accessories, and handcrafted ceramics
• Visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta with its beautiful majolica-tiled dome

And, of course, your trip to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast will not be complete without trying limoncello. This famous Italian liqueur is made from the region’s sun-kissed lemons and is served as a refreshing after-dinner digestif. You can even visit local limoncello producers to learn more about how this delicious liqueur is made and enjoy a tasting.

Accommodation Options

In Sorrento, you’ll find various accommodation options to suit your travel style and budget. This charming town near Naples offers excellent places to stay, ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, consider booking a room at the Ulisse Deluxe Hostel. This hotel provides spacious, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, and is just a 10-minute walk from the main square, Piazza Tasso, and the Marina Grande.

For those on a tighter budget, numerous affordable hotels and guesthouses exist throughout the town.

Click to search, compare, and book your hotel in Sorrento via our trusted provider.

Best Time to Visit Sorrento

Sorrento is an ideal destination year-round. However, the weather is best from April to October and you can enjoy all the outdoor activities, festivals, and events that the town offers.

The summer months of June, July, and August are the busiest in Sorrento, with plenty of tourists from around the world flocking to the town to soak up the sun and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. During these months, accommodation and transportation prices may be higher due to the high demand.

Useful Tips for Travelers

Visiting Sorrento from Rome or Naples can be a breeze if you follow these friendly tips to make your journey enjoyable.

• Research local events and activities beforehand to make the most of your stay.
• Account for seasonal weather changes when packing your clothes, as the weather in Sorrento can vary.
• Don’t forget to carry some cash, as smaller businesses and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
• Learn a few useful Italian phrases to help you during your stay. The locals love it when you try!

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well prepared for your memorable vacation in beautiful Sorrento.