We have rented a couple of cars to drive down from Naples to Massa Lubrense. Our place will most likely not be ready to check in so we are thinking of stopping in Sorrento for lunch/exploration. Any recommendations on where to park near center of town? Our bags will be in the car and assume that should not be a problem. Would not think of doing that in San Francisco for example.
Posted by
4441 posts
Actually I never worry about stuff in my trunk in the US (live near Washington DC), but I see constant warnings about doing this in Italy and have seen anecdotes of people having their luggage stolen. (Full disclosure, I have taken the risk) So, obviously, take anything of vital importance with you (i.e., tablet, passport, medication).
I usually look or parking lots with Google maps, but someone may very well pop in with a specific recommendation.
I would add the month, and also make sure you understand ZTL.
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
7333 posts
In season, you are unlikely to succeed. There is a big underground pay-garage near the Ambasciatori hotel that fills up at night, but may have space for lunch. 1/3-1/2 mile nice walk to downtown.
All garages have a waiver of responsibility for stuff unwisely visible in the car.
Posted by
OP
18 posts
Thanks. Can we use the parking by the ferries or is that too far to walk
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
7333 posts
There is a big elevation difference, but there's a pedestrian elevator for a couple of Euros. I have no experience with parking at the marinas. Is there a charge?? You may regret having a car, because there is essentially no public parking in Positano or Amalfi. There are limited spaces at Pompeii Scavi. This is not like The Mall of America. (Or Orvieto, for a better comparison.)
Posted by
San Diego, California
4794 posts
When is this drive?
Are you prepared for the traffic congestion in Naples, Sorrento, and in between ? Last May, 2023, we had a private driver for that journey, and it took two hours. The infrastructure for that entire area has been sadly neglected, and there is no efficient or quick way to get around. You will be sitting in traffic congestion, if your trip is April thru October.
I would not leave anything in the car that is essential to your health and well being. Do not open the trunk once you park. Beware of ZLT zones and traffic cameras.
I enjoyed Sorrento and there is so much good food. I hope this excursion works out for you. Good luck!
Posted by
OP
18 posts
Our place in Mass Lubrense is about 20 minutes from Sorrento. We need the cars for that reason and it was recommended by the people we are renting from given the location. The rental has a terrific view of the gulf so switching is not an option. Our intent is to only use the cars when we drive back and forth between our rental and Sorrento. I found renting cars with an automatic transmission impossible in Sorrento.
We will be using the ferry to go to Positano.
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
7333 posts
You didn't give the month of the year, but please come back here after the trip and report on the local driving experience, including parking (I suppose) at the Massa Lubrense Circumvesuviana station for daytrips. Many posters here propose a car rental but we get very few first-hand reports. Thank you.
Posted by
OP
18 posts
Will be June 3-7 of this year...will do