Planning on flying into Rome for a few days in late May or late June and then spending a few days in Sorrento before returning to Rome to fly home. Wanting to know which train to take, should we avoid the train from Naples to Sorrento ( I've read it's bad for pick pockets). Should we take a ferry to Sorrento from Naples? Which trains? which ferries? How far in advance to book?
Please help.
Buy tickets from Rome to Naples on https://www.trenitalia.com/en.html (the official site of Italy's national rail) and then buy tickets on the Circumvesuviana at the station.
We've taken the Circumvesuviana several times. Including from Naples to Sorrento with all our luggage. Never had a problem. Which isn't to say there never is, but we did not ever feel like it was something we were foolish for attempting. Use common sense, wear money belts, and if you have luggage don't sit right by an exit. On the way to Sorrento sit on the right side of the train for the best views of the water.
This depends on your arrival time, but many like to press on to the other destination before returning to departure city. This saves you from having to do a one-night hotel stay.
ETA There is an alternate train called Campania Express, which is reputed to be "nicer" than the Circumvesuviana.
The ferry from from Naples to Sorrento would be a good choice. The train from Naples to Sorrento can be very crowded. If you do take the train do not wear any nice rings or jewelry. When we were on the train a group of teens had a system where they were all keeping an eye on me and other people who had luggage. My husband and I switched train cars because we felt so uncomfortable.
I have taken this trip a few times and it is quite easy. Any high speed train from Roma Termini Station to Napoli Centrale Station will do just fine. I have used Trenitalia and Italo trains and they both get the job done. Once at Napoli Centrale you will need catch the Circumvesuviana Train at the Garibaldi Station which is located underneath Napoli Centrale (just follow the signed downstairs and down the hallway). Sorrento is the last stop. I've done it with tons of luggage and it's not a problem but I'd advise keeping an eye on your belongings.
Train. Direct to Naples, then train direct to Sorrento. Quick, easy, enjoyable.
In most cases it is reckless to wake up in Sorrento for a flight to Rome. The discounted Frecciarossa tickets for May may already be heading towards walk-up price, and they are not changeable or refundable. You would have to tell us more about yourselves (and your budget) to advise you about the (commuter-like, no reservations) Circumvesuviana. For example, have you ever in your life, used a city subway or bus in the US? You would have to haggle with the Naples taxi driver about the proper fare from the train station to the port. So download the municipal fare card as evidence!
Sorrento will be heavily booked by now. Do you have a room?
