Getting from Naples to the Amalfi Coast with public transportation is the cheapest option, but also the most time-consuming. You'll have to change at least a couple of times during the day and the crowds and delays can be stressful in high season. If you only have a day to spend on the coast, we suggest this as a last resort, keeping in mind that you will probably not be able to fit in Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello unless you want to spend most of your day on a public bus.
To explore the Amalfi Coast via public transport, you need set off from Sorrento, where you can connect to a bus along the coastline.
Getting from Naples to Sorrento
From the Naples Capodichino airport, take the Curreri bus from outside Terminal 1; tickets are EUR 10/person and can be purchased directly on the bus.
Otherwise, take the Alibus airport shuttle to the Napoli Centrale train station (EUR 4/person; tickets available on board) and then connect to the local Circumvesuviana train to Sorrento (follow the signs to the lower level of the train station).
Getting from Sorrento the Amalfi Coast
The coastline between Sorrento and Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello is covered by the Sita public bus company; it takes about 45 minutes to reach Positano and 60 minutes to reach Amalfi. The route is scenic but there are a number of twists and curves that may be unpleasant for those who suffer from motion sickness. Travel times can also be much longer when there is heavy traffic, generally on the summer weekends and holidays.
Touring the Amalfi Coast by Sea
Another option, available only in the summer, is touring the Amalfi Coast by sea. From Sorrento, there are ferries that depart for both Positano and Amalfi.
If you do decide to explore via public transportation, we suggest stopping in just one or two towns; visit Amalfi in the morning and Positano in the afternoon before heading back to Naples, for example.
No matter how you explore and which itinerary you choose, your day trip to the Amalfi Coast is sure to be a highlight of your trip and will perhaps inspire you to return for a longer visit one day!