Naples to Positano & Amalfi: Scenic Day Trip with Free Time

Summary

Naples to Amalfi Coast day trip with flexible stops and local flavor

You’ll ride from Naples along winding coastal roads with an assistant on board, stopping first in Positano for free time among pastel houses and sea air. Later, stroll through Amalfi at your own pace before heading back — plenty of space for wandering or just sitting quietly with a gelato as life goes by.

What’s the experience like?

Leaning against the window as we rolled out of Naples, I caught the first salty breeze sneaking in through the bus’s air vents. Our tour assistant, Carmela, handed out little audio guides — she grinned when mine tangled in my hair (I’m hopeless). The city noise faded behind us, replaced by that low hum of wheels and the odd burst of laughter from a couple behind me. It was early but already warm; I could smell coffee clinging to people’s jackets.

The drive along the coast really is something — not in that postcard way, but more like your eyes can’t quite settle anywhere for long. We zigzagged past lemon groves and old stone walls, and Carmela pointed out a church perched impossibly high above Positano. When we finally stopped at Sponda, the main bus stop in Positano, I nearly tripped getting off (the steps are steeper than you think). There’s this moment when you step onto the street and everything smells faintly of citrus and sunscreen. I wandered down those narrow alleys — honestly, I lost track of time just watching locals chat over espresso or fuss with their shop windows. Didn’t expect to find so many tiny dogs trotting around either.

At 13:10 sharp (Carmela was strict about this), we hopped back on for Amalfi. The ride was shorter than I thought; maybe because everyone was quieter now, just staring at the blue water flickering between houses. In Amalfi itself, you get a few hours to do whatever — I grabbed a gelato near Piazza Flavio Gioia and sat on some steps where a group of teenagers were arguing about football in rapid Italian. No pressure to rush; it felt good just being part of the afternoon noise for a while. On the way back to Naples, most people dozed off or scrolled through photos. I kept thinking about that light on the water outside Positano — weird how some views stick with you longer than others.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Naples to Positano and Amalfi tour

• Start at Molo Beverello bus stop
• Travel through Naples city streets
• Arrive at Positano bus stop "Sponda"
• Free time to visit Positano
• Board bus to Amalfi at 13:10
• Free time to visit Amalfi
• Return to Naples from Amalfi at 16:30

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Naples to Positano & Amalfi?

The tour starts in Naples and returns in the late afternoon after visiting both towns; exact timing depends on your chosen departure.

Is there free time in both Positano and Amalfi?

Yes, you’ll have free time to explore both Positano and Amalfi independently during the day trip.

Where does the bus pick up in Naples?

The main pick-up point is Molo Beverello; other stops include Via Monteoliveto, Via Toledo, Via Medina, Via San Carlo, Piazza Bovio, Corso Lucci, and Via Ferraris.

Is there an assistant or guide on board?

Yes, there is a tour assistant on board throughout the journey.

Are infants or small children allowed?

Infants and small children can join; they may ride in a pram or stroller but must sit on an adult’s lap during travel.

What time does the bus leave Positano for Amalfi?

The transfer from Positano to Amalfi departs at 13:10 from Sponda bus stop.

When does the return bus leave from Amalfi to Naples?

The return bus departs from Piazza Flavio Gioia in Amalfi at 16:30 heading back to Naples.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes transport from central Naples with several pick-up points, an assistant on board for help along the way, free use of an audioguide if you want it (though chatting works too), air-conditioned comfort during drives between towns, plus generous free time to explore both Positano and Amalfi before returning late afternoon.