If you’re dreaming of pastel-colored cliffside villages, sun-kissed beaches, and Mediterranean charm, the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy is the ultimate destination. This 2025 guide explains how to get to the Amalfi Coast from Los Angeles, detailing every step from international flights to scenic local routes. Whether you’re headed to Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, or Sorrento.
✈️ Step 1: Fly from Los Angeles to Italy
There are no direct flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to the Amalfi Coast, so you’ll first need to fly into one of Italy’s major international airports. The two most popular options are:
🔹 Option A: Fly to Naples International Airport (NAP)
- Best for proximity to Amalfi Coast
- Airlines: Lufthansa, ITA Airways, Air France, KLM (usually with 1 stop)
- Flight Duration: ~13–16 hours (1-stop)
🔹 Option B: Fly to Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
- More flight options & often cheaper
- Airlines: ITA Airways, United, Delta, Lufthansa, British Airways
- Flight Duration: ~12–15 hours (1-stop)
🛫 Tip: Booking a multi-city itinerary (LAX → Rome/Naples → Amalfi Coast) often gives better flexibility and pricing.
🚄 Step 2: Travel from Rome or Naples to the Amalfi Coast
📍 From Naples to the Amalfi Coast
A. By Private Transfer or Taxi
- Time: ~1.5 hours
- Cost: €100–€150
- Best For: Comfort and direct drop-off to hotel in Positano, Amalfi, etc.
B. By Train + Bus/Taxi
- Train from Naples Centrale to Salerno (~35 min on Frecciarossa)
- From Salerno, take a ferry or SITA bus to Amalfi/Positano
- Ferry: Scenic and faster in summer (~1 hr)
- SITA Bus: Budget-friendly but slower (~90 mins)
📍 From Rome to the Amalfi Coast
A. Train to Naples or Salerno
- Rome to Naples: ~1 hr 10 min by high-speed train
- Rome to Salerno: ~2 hrs by high-speed train
- Then follow same steps as above from Naples/Salerno
B. Rent a Car in Rome
- Drive Time: ~3.5–4.5 hours
- Route: A1 → A3 → SS163 Amalfitana (scenic cliff road)
- Note: Parking is limited on the coast, especially in Positano and Amalfi.
🚢 Step 3: Ferry Travel on the Amalfi Coast
In summer (May–October), ferries connect:
- Naples → Sorrento → Positano → Amalfi → Salerno
- Major Operators: Travelmar, Alilauro, NLG
- Booking: DirectFerries, Travelmar
Ferries are highly recommended over buses for less traffic and panoramic sea views.
🏖️ Best Time to Visit the Amalfi Coast
- Peak Season (June–August): Warm weather, festivals, but crowded
- Shoulder Season (April–May, Sept–Oct): Ideal balance of weather and fewer tourists
- Off-Season (Nov–March): Many places close, but peaceful and scenic
🛏️ Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast
| Destination | Best For | Recommended Hotels |
|---|---|---|
| Positano | Romantic getaways | Le Sirenuse, Hotel Marincanto |
| Amalfi Town | Central location | Hotel Santa Caterina, NH Collection |
| Ravello | Views & serenity | Belmond Hotel Caruso |
| Sorrento | Transit hub | Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria |
🌍 Travel Documents for U.S. Citizens
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- No visa required for tourism up to 90 days in Italy
- ETIAS required from 2025 (apply online at etias.com)
📦 Travel Tips for Americans Visiting the Amalfi Coast
- Carry Euros, though cards are widely accepted
- Prepare for steep walks and many stairs in Positano and Ravello
- Download Google Translate and Rome2Rio for navigation
- Tipping: Not mandatory, but appreciated (5–10%)
🔍 FAQs: How to Get to the Amalfi Coast from Los Angeles
Q: What is the closest airport to the Amalfi Coast?
The nearest airport to the Amalfi Coast is Naples International Airport (NAP), located about 60 km from Amalfi.
Q: How long does it take to travel from Los Angeles to the Amalfi Coast?
Expect a total travel time of 15 to 20 hours, depending on your layovers, airport transfers, and final destination on the coast.
Q: Is there a direct flight from Los Angeles to the Amalfi Coast?
No, there are no direct flights to the Amalfi Coast. You’ll need to fly into Naples or Rome and then continue by train, car, or ferry.
Q: Should I fly into Naples or Rome to get to Amalfi Coast?
Naples is closer, but Rome offers more flights and competitive fares. Both are good options depending on your budget and time.
Q: Can I take a train from Rome to Amalfi Coast?
Yes. Take a high-speed train to Salerno or Naples, then transfer to a ferry, bus, or taxi to reach Amalfi Coast towns.
🧳 Packing Essentials for the Amalfi Coast
- Lightweight clothes for summer
- Dressier outfits for dinners
- Sunscreen & reusable water bottle
- Daypack & walking shoes
- Camera or smartphone with good zoom for cliff views
✅ Final Thoughts
Traveling from Los Angeles to the Amalfi Coast might seem long, but it’s more than worth it. The most efficient way is to fly from LAX to Naples, then take a car, bus, or ferry to Positano or Amalfi. Alternatively, flying into Rome and taking the train provides more flight options and beautiful scenic routes.
Whether you’re going for a honeymoon, a family holiday, or a solo escape, the Amalfi Coast promises unforgettable charm. So pack your bags, book early, and prepare to fall in love with one of Italy’s most iconic coasts.