Amalfi Coast Day Trip from Rome by Train & Ferry

Summary

From Rome to Positano by train then ferry, sun-warmed stone underfoot, limoncello sips in Amalfi town

You’ll ride the fast train from Rome to Salerno, then cruise along the Amalfi Coast by ferry with a local guide who knows every shortcut. Swim or shop in Positano, taste limoncello in Amalfi’s sunlit alleys, and enjoy lunch overlooking the sea. It’s one of those days that feels both effortless and full — you might catch yourself wishing it wouldn’t end.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I almost bailed on this Amalfi Coast day trip from Rome because I pictured hours stuck in a bus. But we zipped out of Termini on the high-speed train, coffee still warm in my hand, and before I’d finished scrolling through old photos we were already stepping into salty air at Salerno. Our guide (Giulia — she wore these bright blue sunglasses) rounded us up like a little flock and led us straight to the ferry. The engine started up with that low rumble and suddenly there were cliffs sliding past, houses stacked like sugar cubes. I kept getting distracted by the wind tangling my hair and the smell of diesel mixed with seaweed — not exactly perfume, but it felt real.

Positano looked even more dramatic from the water than in all those Instagram shots. We hopped off and Giulia gave us a quick rundown: “Swim or shop — up to you!” I tried both. The water was colder than I expected for June, sharp at first but then just right once you got moving. There was this moment when I stood dripping on those pebbly stones, watching locals argue over soccer scores outside a bakery (the smell of fresh lemon pastries drifting out), and it hit me how far we’d come since breakfast in Rome. Lunch was slow — pasta with clams, lots of olive oil — and nobody rushed us.

The ride to Amalfi was short but somehow quieter; maybe everyone was tired or just soaking it all in. In town, Giulia pointed out the cathedral steps where teenagers lounged with gelato and then led us for a limoncello tasting (I tried to say “grazie” like a local — got a laugh). Free time meant wandering alleys painted yellow by late sun or sitting by the sea wall watching boats bob around. The return ferry gave us these sideways glances at Minori and Maiori; honestly, I can’t remember which was which but it didn’t matter. Sometimes the best part is letting details blur together.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Amalfi Coast day trip from Rome

• Travel from Rome to Salerno by train
• Meet local expert and walk to ferry
• Enjoy one-hour ferry cruise to Positano
• Swim or explore boutiques in Positano
• Have a leisurely lunch in Positano
• Ferry ride from Positano to Amalfi
• Guided stroll and limoncello tasting in Amalfi
• Free time to shop or visit beach
• Ferry cruise from Amalfi to Salerno
• Walk to station and return to Rome

Top questions

How long does the Amalfi Coast day trip from Rome take?

The tour is designed as a full-day trip including round-trip high-speed rail between Rome and Salerno plus time exploring Positano and Amalfi.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

No hotel pickup is included; travelers meet at the designated departure point in Rome.

What kind of transportation is used on this tour?

You’ll travel by high-speed train between Rome and Salerno, then use ferryboats along the Amalfi Coast.

Are meals included during the tour?

Lunch is not specifically included but there’s free time scheduled for eating at your own pace in Positano or Amalfi.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes, infants can join with an assigned seat on the train but no infant seats are provided; strollers are allowed.

Can travelers with mobility challenges participate?

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchairs or mobility aids due to transportation logistics; contact organizers for custom options.

What happens if there are rail delays or rough seas?

The itinerary may be adjusted if needed due to delays or weather; updates will be provided as soon as possible.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip high-speed rail tickets from Rome to Salerno, all ferryboat rides along the coast between Salerno, Positano, and Amalfi, plus guidance throughout from an English-speaking escort who’ll handle logistics so you can focus on swimming, shopping, tasting limoncello or simply watching sunlight move across those cliffside villages before heading back to Rome together.