How to Plan a Day Trip to Positano from Rome

Is it possible to visit Positano as a day trip from Rome? The answer is yes! If you're short on time, but want to pack in a magical day in Positano, while visiting Rome, you've come to the right place. In my past eight years of living in Rome, I have visited Positano on a day trip from Rome multiple times and I am ready to share all my knowledge with you here. So read on to start planning the perfect day trip to Positano from Rome.

How to Get from Rome to Positano

Positano may be one of Italy’s most breathtaking destinations, but getting there from Rome requires a little planning. There’s no direct train from Rome to Positano, but you have several travel options: public transportation, shuttle services, private transfers, or guided tours. Each comes with its own pros and cons, so let’s break it down.

Public Transportation: Train + Bus or Ferry

If you’re up for a little adventure and want to keep costs down, public transportation is your best bet. While there are many ways to get to Positano from Rome using public transportation, I have found that this route is the most efficient:

Catch an early morning fast train to Naples Central (Napoli Centrale). I usually book these in advance so I get the best price. You can either check Italo or Trenitalia for these fast speed trains that get you to Naples in about 1 hour 10 minutes. My advice? Compare prices and timings on Omio, so you can find the best option for you.

Once you get to Naples Central, take a cab or the metro to the port. There is a Taxi stand right as you exit the train station. It is a short ride to the port from the central station that should not cost you more than 15 Euros. Always check the meter when you get in the cab, and avoid fixed cab taxis to get a fair rate.

If you choose to get the metro, this option is very convenient as well. Take the metro from Piazza Garibaldi to Municipio stop on the L1. (Yellow Line) Subway. This should cost about 1.30-1.50 Euros for a one way ticket.

From here, simply hop on the Ferry to Positano. There are a number of different ferry companies that have fast and slow ferries to a number of different locations on the Amalfi Coast. I would check the timing of the ferry and book your train accordingly so you don't miss the ferry and have to wait for the next one. If you're visiting during the peak season, I also recommend booking your ferry tickets in advance as these do get sold out. For day trippers, this is absolutely essential, to ensure that you don't get stuck or have to take massive detours to get back to Rome. I use Omio to compare timings and book ferries.

Direct Bus from Rome to Positano

If you’d rather avoid all the transfers, there’s a direct bus from Rome’s Tiburtina Station to Positano, operated by Marozzi. The bus departs in the morning and takes about 4.5 hours. A ticket costs around €15–€25, making this an easy and affordable option.

However, remember that Positano is a cliffside village with narrow streets. So the bus will probably drop you at the top, and you will have to walk all the way down to the beach for those perfect typical views of Positano. And I can promise you, walking all the way up to get the bus back is not for everyone! So think twice before opting for this option if you're trying to avoid intense uphill walks.

The other thing to keep in mind is that this bus is only available seasonally (spring to early fall), so check the schedule and book in advance.

Private Transfer: The Most Comfortable Option

If convenience is your top priority, consider booking a private transfer from Rome to Positano. Daytrip.com and other services offer door-to-door transfers, with it being the most comfortable way to travel. While this is the most expensive option (around €500–€600 one way), it’s also the easiest, allowing you to maximize your time in Positano.

This route will take about 3.5-4 hours one way and costs about 500-600 Euros. If you're traveling with a group of friends, it might still be worth it as you will be splitting the costs. Get a quote for the journey here.

Guided Tours: Stress-Free and All-Inclusive

For those who want a hassle-free experience, booking an organized day trip from Rome to Positano is a great choice. Many tours include stops in Naples, Pompeii, or even Capri. Prices range from €150 to €300 per person, but they include transportation, guides, and sometimes even meals.

These tours last for usually 12-14 hours, where a guide takes care of all the arrangements for you. It is a great budget option for those who want to cover more with an experienced and knowledgeable local guide. Here is a highly rated tour that only costs 120 Euros for this particular day trip from Rome to Positano. Make sure to book your spots in advance to ensure that you don't miss out on the best deals.

Most Epic Things to Do on Your Day Trip to Positano

You’ve made it! Now it’s time to soak in everything Positano has to offer. Here’s how to make the most of your short but unforgettable visit:

Wander the Charming Streets of Positano

Positano’s cliffside streets are an absolute dream, lined with bougainvillea-draped buildings, charming boutiques, and tiny cafes. Start at the top of the town and make your way down toward the beach, taking in the stunning coastal views as you go. Stop at ceramic shops for beautifully hand-painted souvenirs, and if you’re feeling adventurous, pop into a local tailor shop to get a custom-made linen outfit—perfect for those Amalfi Coast vibes.

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—Positano’s streets are steep and full of stairs! Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated as you explore.

Relax on Spiaggia Grande

The main beach of Positano, Spiaggia Grande, is the perfect place to soak up the sun. Whether you rent a sunbed (60 Euros-70 Euros, may be higher or lower according to the season) or just relax on the free section, the view of Positano’s colorful buildings cascading down the cliffs is absolutely iconic. If you want a quieter experience, take a short boat ride to Fornillo Beach, a more secluded and less crowded alternative.

Visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta

This beautiful church, with its famous tiled dome, is a must-see. Inside, you’ll find a Byzantine icon of the Black Madonna, a piece of history that dates back to the 12th century. The church’s peaceful atmosphere is a nice contrast to the bustling streets outside, making it a perfect place for a quiet moment of reflection.

Take a moment to admire the stunning ceramic-tiled dome from the outside—it’s one of Positano’s most photographed landmarks.

Eat Your Way Through Positano

No trip to Positano is complete without indulging in some delicious food. Try fresh seafood pasta, lemon granita, or the famous "Delizia al Limone" dessert. For an unforgettable dining experience, head to the restaurant at Rada Beach Club. Here you'll find fresh sea food dishes and outside tables with stunning views of Positano from the beach.

I have also been to another famous restaurant called 'Chez Black' at the main Positano beach that has been frequented by many celebrities. While the location is great and the ambience is elegant, I did not particularly enjoy the food here. So, I would recommend Rada Beach Club over Chez Black if you're looking for something right on the beach.

If you're visiting during peak season, I would also recommend calling ahead and booking a table with a view!

Pick Up Some Local Souvenirs

If you're looking to bring back some local souvenirs from your trip, Positano has lots to offer. For some tasteful jewellery and other keepsakes you can check out Idee d'Arte Positano. If you're looking for one of those outfits with typical Amalfi Coast prints, don't miss Antica Sartoria on the main beach. They've got so many pretty dresses and skirts to choose from for women and also a selection for men.

Soak in the Views with a Drink at La Coquille

Usually when the sun is too harsh in the summer and I have some time to kill before getting on the ferry, I often stop by La Coquille, located inside Hotel Covo dei Saraceni for a refreshing drink. What makes it perfect is the location as it is right next to the ferry port and it is indoors with air conditioning.

Final Tips for Your Day Trip to Positano

Book transportation in advance – Whether you’re taking a train, bus, ferry, or private transfer, securing your tickets early can save you from last-minute stress and higher prices, especially in peak season.

Pack light and smart – You’ll be walking a lot, often on steep and uneven paths. A small backpack with essentials like a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle is ideal.

Bring cash – Many small shops, local bus drivers, and some cafes prefer cash over cards. Having euros on hand can make your transactions smoother.

Wear comfortable shoes – Positano’s streets are famous for their beauty, but also their endless stairs! Sneakers or sturdy sandals are your best friends here.

Dress for the weather – Summers are hot, so wear breathable clothing and don’t forget a light cover-up for the ferry ride. In cooler months, a light jacket is advisable.

Keep an eye on time – If you’re on public transport, check the schedules ahead of time. If you’re on a tour, stay punctual so you don’t get left behind!

Take advantage of the views – Whether you’re dining at a cliffside restaurant or just stopping for a quick coffee, always take a moment to soak in the spectacular scenery.

Try local specialties – Don’t leave without tasting Positano’s famous seafood pasta, lemon granita, or a freshly baked sfogliatella from a local bakery.

Be mindful of ferry and bus schedules – If you’re taking public transportation back to Rome, double-check the last departure times. Missing the last ferry or bus could mean an unplanned overnight stay!

Capture the memories – Bring a good camera or make space on your phone for all the stunning shots you’ll take. Positano is incredibly photogenic, so take your time capturing its beauty.

Don’t overplan – With only one day, pick a few must-do activities rather than trying to see everything. Give yourself time to enjoy the moment rather than rushing from place to place.

If you need help planning your trip, feel free to book a consultation call with me here. I'd love to share all my tips and hacks to help you plan the best trip to Italy.