Worth it??

If I understand correctly that you would leave and return in the same day, that would probably not be worth it, because you would not have much time to see much of the Amalfi Coast. But, if you spend at least one night, it would be a little more worthwhile. I personally think a minimum of 2 days is needed to "begin" to enjoy the Amalfi Coast, 3 days better. If your friends insist on a one-day whirlwind, I'd suggest focusing on one town, such as Sorrento or Positano (don't think Positano is accessible by train, but others could advise)....or take in Pompeii. Part of what is so wonderful about the Amalfi Coast is the curving road from one end to the other, which offers incredible views. Fun to take one direction by road and then go back by boat, Assume you've already been out to the Tuscan countryside? How much time do you have left in Italy? If you only have one "spare day," I'd suggest saving the Amalfi for a future trip.

To me it's not worth it. You won't have much time to see the area since the train travel will take up most of your day. It's better done as an overnight but if your friend really wants to then I would suggest letting him do it on his own and you and your wife spend another wonderful day exploring Rome. Donna

Imagine a glass of the most beautiful wine you ever have tasted. You take your time with it and you never would forget the experience. Or you could chug it and miss the point entirely. Your friend wants to chug the Amalfi Coast.

You're not crazy Zach! I personally would not consider the Amalfi Coast to be a day trip from Rome! Save it for another trip in which you can devote a minimum of 3-4 days to the Amalfi Coast. If your friend is itching to take a day trip, I'd consider visiting Orvieto instead (it's 90 minutes each way from Rome) & it's a nice change of pace and it's one of my favorite hill towns. It's very quaint and picturesque.

Zach, I definitely agree with the others. Visiting the Amalfi coast may be feasible but is NOT an ideal day trip from Rome. The Amalfi coast covers a large area. Which part exactly is your friend planning on seeing in the space of a few hours? You could certainly take the regular train to Naples and Circumvesuviana to Sorrento, but you wouldn't really have time to see much of the city. Travel to Positano (which has no rail service) or Amalfi would take more time. You might point out to your friend that the Amalfi coast IS that good, but only if you have the time to savour it (IMHO)! A "whistle stop" tour is NOT going to allow any "savouring time". Cheers!

All the posters above are correct. He's crazy. He's falling victim to the trap of thinking he might be enjoying some place more than where he is. It's easy to start thinking that way in Italy, so much so that it can ruin your vacation.

Thank you to everyone who posted, I will relay the information. Ciao!!!