AmalfiCoast Costiera Amalfitana

The Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs and charming towns, is a bucket-list destination for many. However, for those unfamiliar with its perilous roads and heavy traffic, driving can be stressful. Fortunately, the SITA bus service provides a well-connected network linking Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, making it the most viable option for tourists who want to move around without the hassle of finding parking or navigating winding roads.

The current schedule includes multiple daily routes from Sorrento to Amalfi via Positano, passing through scenic stops such as Praiano and Conca dei Marini. Here are some of the key departure times:

• From Sorrento: 6:30 AM, 7:45 AM, 8:30 AM, 9:15 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM, and later departures until 7:00 PM.

• From Amalfi: First departures from 7:05 AM, with multiple routes running throughout the day until 8:40 PM.

These services run daily, including weekends and holidays, ensuring visitors can plan their itineraries accordingly.

Low vs. High Season: What You need to know

During the off-season (October to April), the buses operate with reasonable passenger loads, making for a smooth and enjoyable ride. However, from May to September, the demand skyrockets, and it is common for travelers to find themselves waiting hours for a bus that is already full.

The main issue? Limited capacity. The narrow roads prevent larger buses from running, and during peak times, even scheduled departures fill up quickly, especially for return journeys from Amalfi to Sorrento in the late afternoon.

Best travel strategy: stay on the Amalfi Coast

Instead of tackling day trips from Sorrento, a smarter way to visit the Amalfi Coast is to book accommodations in one of its 13 stunning towns, such as Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, Praiano or Maiori, Minori, Atrani, Tramonti and Cetara. Staying overnight allows you to explore at a relaxed pace, avoid the stress of missing return buses, and experience the coast’s magic during the quieter evening hours.

Final Tips for Tourists:

• Plan early departures to secure a spot on the bus.

• Avoid peak afternoon return times from Amalfi or Positano.

• Consider ferries as an alternative in warmer months for a more scenic and relaxed journey.

• If staying in Sorrento, allow extra time for travel back, especially in the summer months.

Conclusion

While the Amalfi Coast’s roads are among the most beautiful in the world, they are also among the most challenging. Unless you're confident behind the wheel in high-pressure driving conditions, the SITA bus system remains the safest and most practical way to get around. By planning ahead and considering alternative accommodations along the coast, visitors can fully enjoy this Mediterranean gem without unnecessary stress.