Essential Tips to Avoid Common Transportation Mistakes on the Amalfi Coast

Traveling along the Amalfi Coast and nearby towns like Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi and Ravello offers breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Yet, the region’s unique geography and infrastructure create specific challenges for transportation logistics. Many travelers, event and destination wedding planners underestimate these difficulties, leading to unexpected costs, delays and frustration. This guide highlights common transportation mistakes and practical solutions to help you navigate the Amalfi Coast smoothly, especially if you are planning a destination wedding or group event.

Unique geography and infrastructure create specific challenges for transportation logistics in Positano and Amalfi Coast

Not Budgeting for Transportation Logistics on Narrow Roads Transportation Mistakes Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast’s roads are stunning but notoriously narrow and winding. Large coaches cannot access many routes, especially in towns like Positano and Amalfi. This means transportation often requires multiple minibuses instead of one large vehicle. Vendors transporting equipment or supplies may face doubled costs due to these access challenges.

Impact:

• Unexpectedly high transportation expenses

• Delays in moving people or goods

• Increased stress for planners and guests

  
  

Solution:

Plan your transportation budget with the region’s road limitations in mind. Confirm vehicle sizes allowed on your routes and consider splitting groups into smaller vehicles. Work with local event and wedding planners who understand the terrain and can offer realistic cost estimates upfront.

Underestimating Travel Time Between Locations

Traffic on the Amalfi Coast is chaotic, especially on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. Narrow roads, pedestrian crowds and stairways add to travel time. What looks like a 30-minute drive on a map can easily take 45 minutes to an hour.

Impact:

• Late arrivals to events or venues

• Frustrated guests and vendors

• Tight schedules become impossible to keep

  
  

Solution:

Add 30 to 50 percent extra time to all travel estimates. For example, the drive from Sorrento to Positano typically takes 20 to 40 minutes, but during busy times, expect delays. Share realistic travel times with your guests and vendors to avoid surprises.

Not Arranging Shuttles or Water Taxis for Guests

Parking is extremely limited in towns like Positano and Amalfi. Large coaches cannot enter many areas and taxis are scarce, especially during the high season. Relying on guests to find their own transportation can lead to confusion and delays.

Impact:

• Guests struggling to find parking or taxis

• Increased stress and missed events

• Higher costs for last-minute transport

  
  

Solution:

Pre-arrange shuttle services or water taxis for your guests. Shuttles can transport groups from central parking areas or airports to venues. Water taxis offer a scenic and efficient alternative along the coast. Booking these in advance ensures smooth arrivals and departures.

Forgetting About the 700+ Stairs in Positano and Accessibility Challenges

Positano is built vertically on cliffs, with over 700 stairs leading to many venues. While a new elevator exists, it closes at midnight and costs €2.50 per ride. Handicap chair lifts are available but expensive, costing around €200 per trip.

Impact:

• Guests with mobility issues may struggle or be unable to reach venues

• Additional unexpected costs for accessibility services

• Limited options for luggage transport

  
  

Solution:

Inform guests about the physical demands of Positano’s terrain before arrival. Arrange porter services to assist with luggage and consider venues accessible by elevator or water taxi. Budget for accessibility options if needed and communicate these clearly to your group.

Not Planning for Porter Costs

In Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, porters are often necessary to carry luggage up steep paths and stairs. This service is not optional but essential for smooth logistics.

Impact:

• Guests burdened with heavy luggage

• Delays in check-in or event setup

• Increased risk of damage or loss of belongings

  
  

Solution:

Include porter services in your transportation and event budget. Local porters are experienced navigating the terrain and can save time and effort for everyone involved. Confirm porter availability and rates well in advance.

Understanding Airport Access and Travel Times

The two main airports serving the Amalfi Coast are Naples International Airport and Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport. Naples is larger, with more flight options, including direct flights from New York (JFK), Philadelphia (PHL), Chicago (ORD), and Newark (EWR). Salerno is smaller but closer to Amalfi and Ravello.

Travel Times from Naples Airport:

• Sorrento: 40-60 minutes

• Positano: 1.5-2 hours

• Amalfi: 1 hour 40 minutes

• Ravello: 2 hours

  
  

Travel Times from Salerno Airport:

• Amalfi: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Positano: 1.5 hours

• Ravello: 1 hour 10 minutes

  
  

Impact:

• Choosing the wrong airport can add significant travel time

• Limited flight options at Salerno may restrict guest arrivals

• Misjudging travel times affects event timing

  
  

Solution:

Advise guests to fly into Naples if they want more flight choices and direct international connections. For those prioritizing proximity to Amalfi or Ravello, Salerno is a good option but requires careful planning due to fewer flights. Share detailed travel time estimates and transportation options from each airport.

Final Thoughts on Transportation Planning for the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast’s beauty comes with unique transportation challenges that can create hidden costs and stress if overlooked. By budgeting realistically, allowing extra travel time, arranging shuttles or water taxis, and planning for accessibility and porter services, you can avoid common pitfalls. Understanding airport options and travel times further helps you create a seamless experience for your guests.

The Wondersol team provides Full-Service Wedding Planning packages and ensures a smooth arrival for destination wedding guests from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore, China, and worldwide. Our multilingual planners excel in crafting tailor-made personalized and hassle-free dream weddings. By choosing us, you can be confident that your special day will be flawless. Book your FREE consultation and we'll help you navigate on the breathtaking Amalfi Coast