My family of five will be in the Amalfi coast in early July. My husband and I are having a disagreement. Everything I read says you should go to the towns along the coast by boat and not by car. My husband wants to get a tour guide for 8 hours to take us along the coast. I don't see the area as historical as say Florence. I'm also afraid of car sickness for my children because of the twists and turns. We'd love opinions from the seasoned travelers.
Posted by
In the Mountains, USA
689 posts
We did it both ways. We drove it (independantly - not as a tour) and then we went back by ferry to Positano and Amalfi. The day we drove we did not stop in the towns.
It was a great way to see "it all" from land and sea.
Posted by
Sterling, Colorado, USA
14 posts
Sally, do you remember the time it took from Sorrento to Amalfi by bus? And also by boat (approx.)?
Posted by
Sterling, Colorado, USA
14 posts
Sorry, how long by car-if that is what you meant by 'Independently'??
Posted by
boulder, colorado
192 posts
I would say that taking the ferry is the way to go. My wife and I have taken the bus from Sorrento along the coast - once - (the trip to Positano and then we took the ferry back). We have taken the ferry both ways all the other times we have traveled that area. There is no comparison. You really don't see much from a vehicle and the drive is not enjoyable, especially in July when it will be crowded. The ferry ride is very relaxing and you get great views of the coast and the towns as you glide by fairly close to the coastline.
Posted by
Tacoma, WA
26 posts
Tom, do just as the Rick Steves book says to do. Take the bus from Sorrento to Amalfi, and then take one of the many boats back to Sorrento. We did just that, and the ride on the bus was one of the most memorable parts of our trip. Just remember to site on the right side, front seat if possible. There is a line for the bus, but you can just get in line, and when it is your turn, let others pass around you, and stay first in line for the next bus to guarentee the best seats. Taking a car would also be fun, especially a convertable, but parking and absolutly crazy italian drivers may make it more of a hassle.
Posted by
Marin, CA
527 posts
The kids will love the boat and not be so confined. It's beautiful as you look at the sea colors, the cliffs straight up and the excitement of approaching the town clinging to the rocks. The breeze is cooling and you can bring lunch to eat onboard.A tour guide to show you around is really not necessary they're very simple and charming places.A tour guide for Pompeii is nice. The lemon granitas in Positano are to die for. We did hire a local to take us around the island of Capri, where we were spending the night, in a 18 foot boat. We went into smaller grottos, passed through the arches and stopped four times to swim, a highlight of our trip.