Want to travel to Sorrento by train? Here’s what you need to know:
- Fast and Scenic Routes: From Rome, it takes around 2.5 hours to reach Sorrento, with scenic views of the Bay of Naples and the Mediterranean.
- Affordable Tickets: Fares start at $16 if booked early, with average prices around $30.
- Transfer in Naples: Use the Circumvesuviana (70 minutes) or Campania Express (50 minutes) for the Naples–Sorrento leg.
- 11 Daily Departures: Major operators like Italo and Frecciarossa ensure frequent service.
- Comfort Options: Choose between the basic Circumvesuviana or the air-conditioned Campania Express with reserved seating.
- Central Station Access: Sorrento’s station is a short walk to the town center and connects to buses and ferries for the Amalfi Coast.
Quick Comparison:
| Service Type | Journey Time | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circumvesuviana | 70 minutes | Basic seating, no A/C, frequent stops | $3.95 |
| Campania Express | 50 minutes | Reserved seating, A/C, skips smaller stops | $3.95 |
| Rome to Sorrento | 2.5 hours | High-speed to Naples, transfer required | $16–$65 |
Whether you’re exploring Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, or just enjoying Sorrento, trains are a cost-effective and efficient way to travel. Keep reading for schedules, tips, and ticket options.
Train Stations in Sorrento
Main Station: Sorrento
The main train station in Sorrento is just a short five-minute walk (about 500 meters) from Piazza Tasso, right in the heart of the historic town center. From here, you’ll find buses and taxis readily available, making it easy to reach different parts of Sorrento. For more information about other nearby stations, check out the next section.
Campania Express from Naples to Sorrento
Train Companies and Routes
Sorrento is connected to Naples and other destinations by several train services, each offering different levels of comfort and convenience.
Circumvesuviana Trains
The Circumvesuviana is the main regional train connecting Naples and Sorrento. Trains run roughly every 30 minutes throughout the day, making it a reliable option [3]. This route circles Mount Vesuvius and stops at key attractions like Pompeii and Herculaneum [3][4]. The journey typically takes about 75 minutes on regular trains, while express trains are quicker [1][3].
Key stations include:
- Porta Nolana Station: The main terminus [3]
- Naples Centrale (Garibaldi Station): Located on the lower level of Naples Centrale [3]
Campania Express Service
The Campania Express offers a more comfortable experience along the same route [1]. It skips smaller stops, focusing only on major tourist destinations.
| Feature | Circumvesuviana | Campania Express |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | No guaranteed seats | Guaranteed seating |
| Air Conditioning | Not available | Available |
| Luggage Storage | Limited space | Dedicated storage |
| Stops | All stations | Tourist attractions only |
| Online Booking | Not available | Available |
Naples High-Speed Connections
If you’re arriving in Naples via high-speed trains, it’s easy to transfer to Sorrento-bound services [3]. Here’s how:
- Look for signs directing you to the Circumvesuviana or Garibaldi Station within Naples Centrale [1][3].
- Use the central staircase to reach the lower level [1].
- Head to track 3 to catch a train to Sorrento [1].
Important Tip: The Circumvesuviana platforms at Naples Centrale don’t have elevators or escalators. Be ready to carry your luggage up and down stairs [1].
Getting to Sorrento by Train
International Routes
If you’re traveling from another country, you’ll first need to make your way to Naples. High-speed international trains arrive at Naples Central Station (Napoli Centrale), where you can transfer to the Circumvesuviana train heading to Sorrento.
Italian Routes
Once in Naples, domestic train services make it easy to reach Sorrento. The Naples-to-Sorrento route offers frequent departures and two main options:
Naples to Sorrento Direct Service:
- Trains run every 30 minutes from Napoli Porta Nolana or Napoli Piazza Garibaldi.
- Regular trains stop at all stations and take about 70 minutes, while express trains, with fewer stops, complete the journey in around 50 minutes.
- Tickets cost €3.60 ($3.95) for both regular and express services.
| Train Type | Journey Time | Stops | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Service | 70 minutes | All stations | €3.60 ($3.95) |
| Express Service | 50 minutes | Major stations | €3.60 ($3.95) |
The Circumvesuviana line also serves several towns on the Sorrentine Peninsula, such as Vico Equense, Meta, Piano, and Sant’Agnello. From Sorrento, local buses provide access to the Amalfi Coast. For a better chance of finding a seat, start your journey at Napoli Porta Nolana.
How to Buy Tickets
You can purchase Sorrento train tickets either at station offices or online.
At the Station
Tickets are available at station ticket offices, where staff can help you with your purchase and provide assistance.
Online Options
Online platforms allow you to check schedules, compare fares, and even grab discounts when booking ahead of time.
After purchasing, take a moment to explore the different train classes and fare options to match your travel needs.
Train Classes and Fares
Trains to Sorrento come with different travel classes, designed to suit various comfort levels and preferences. Each class offers a distinct set of features and pricing, affecting both your travel experience and budget.
Circumvesuviana Standard Service
The Circumvesuviana is a basic rail service connecting Naples to Sorrento.
Campania Express Premium Service
The Campania Express offers a more comfortable option for those seeking extra amenities.
| Service Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Circumvesuviana Standard | Basic seating, no air conditioning, limited luggage storage |
| Campania Express Premium | Reserved seating, air conditioning, guaranteed seats, and extra luggage space |
The following section covers transfer options from the station to nearby hotels.
Station to Hotel Transport
Sorrento’s train station is conveniently located near the city center, making it easy to reach many hotels on foot within about 10 minutes.
Walking Routes
If you’re staying near Piazza Tasso, walking is a great option. The streets are well-marked, and it takes about 5 minutes to get to the square. Most central hotels can be reached in 10–15 minutes, making this a practical choice for many visitors.
Taxi Services
You’ll find a taxi rank right outside the station entrance. Licensed taxis provide door-to-door service across Sorrento, which is especially useful for hotels farther from the center.
Local buses are also available for those heading to accommodations in less central areas.
| Transport Option | Distance to City Center | Approx. Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walking | 500 meters (0.3 miles) | 5–10 minutes | Hotels near the center |
| Taxi | Any distance | 5–15 minutes | Hotels farther away |
| Bus | Various routes | 10–20 minutes | Hotels in hillside areas |
Bus Connections
Buses stop just outside the station and are a good option for reaching hotels in more remote parts of Sorrento.
Private Transfers
Private transfers are a solid choice for late-night arrivals or if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage. They offer convenience and peace of mind.
Hotel Shuttle Services
Some hotels, especially those located farther from the station, provide shuttle services for their guests. Be sure to check with your hotel ahead of time to confirm availability.
Local Transport Network
Sorrento offers a well-organized public transport system that connects the city center to its stunning coastal spots and nearby regions. This system works alongside train services to provide a variety of travel options.
Bus Services
EAV operates red and orange buses running every 20 minutes across Sorrento and neighboring areas like Meta, Piano, Sant’Agnello, and Massa Lubrense. Tickets cost $1.30 (€1.20) and can be purchased at local shops or train stations.
SITA buses link Sorrento to Positano (about 10 miles away) and Amalfi. The bus ride to Positano takes 50 minutes, while Amalfi is a 90-minute journey.
| Bus Service | Route Coverage | Ticket Price | Purchase Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| EAV Town Buses | Local Sorrento routes | $1.30 (€1.20) | Tobacconists, train stations |
| SITA Coastal | Sorrento – Amalfi Coast | Varies by distance | Station ticket booth |
| Cooperativa Tasso | Meta – Sorrento Porto | $1.08 (€1.00) | Purchased on board |
For the best coastal views, grab a seat on the right side of the bus [7]. Between April and October, City Sightseeing buses offer another option, complete with audio guides [6].
In addition to its road network, Sorrento uses water routes to make coastal travel easier.
Water Transport
Boats from Marina Piccola connect Sorrento to Capri (30 minutes), Naples (1 hour), Positano (30 minutes in summer), Amalfi (50 minutes in summer), and Ischia (1 hour, seasonal).
During summer, ferry services increase, offering a more comfortable alternative to buses, especially when coastal roads get crowded.
For added convenience, Cooperativa Tasso runs a minibus service between Meta and Sorrento Porto, making it easy to reach ferry terminals.
Sites Reachable by Public Transport
Sorrento’s extensive rail and bus network makes it easy to explore historical landmarks and coastal gems.
Archaeological Sites
The Circumvesuviana train line is your gateway to some of Italy’s most famous archaeological locations. For instance, Pompeii is only a 30-minute train ride from Sorrento, with the ruins just a short walk from the Pompei Scavi Villa dei Misteri station [8].
Herculaneum is another must-see, reachable in about 50 minutes via the Circumvesuviana. From Ercolano Scavi station, the ancient ruins are just a 5-10 minute walk away [3].
If you’re planning to visit Mount Vesuvius, you can take the Circumvesuviana to Pompei Scavi and transfer to the EAV bus, or head to Ercolano Scavi and use the Vesuvio Express shuttle for the final leg [8].
For those interested in Oplontis, it’s accessible via the Circumvesuviana, stopping at Torre Annunziata station [3].
| Archaeological Site | Travel Time from Sorrento | Transport Method | Connection Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pompeii | 30 minutes | Circumvesuviana train | Pompei Scavi Villa dei Misteri |
| Herculaneum | 50 minutes | Circumvesuviana train | Ercolano Scavi |
| Mount Vesuvius | Varies | Train and Bus | Pompei or Ercolano stations |
| Oplontis | Varies | Circumvesuviana train | Torre Annunziata station |
These destinations offer a mix of history and natural beauty, all within easy reach.
Coastal Destinations
Sorrento’s public transport also connects you to the Amalfi Coast’s stunning seaside towns. From the main bus terminal outside the Circumvesuviana station, you can catch buses to Positano, Amalfi, and Praiano [5].
For a more scenic option, ferries operate from Marina Piccola during the summer months, offering routes to Capri and other nearby islands [3]. Multi-day tickets from Unico Campania make it convenient to switch between buses, trains, and ferries.
Travel Seasons and Schedules
From Easter through October, trains operate at their busiest schedule[9]. If you’re traveling between mid-June and mid-September, be mindful of the intense daytime heat. Planning your trips during the cooler morning or evening hours can make for a more comfortable experience[9]. Outside of these months, the train schedules change to match the cooler seasons.
In winter (January to mid-March), train service runs less frequently, and timetables are adjusted accordingly[9]. April and May bring pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and dependable service. While October still follows the high-season schedule, by mid-November, the transition to winter timetables begins[9].
Planning Tips
If you’re traveling from Rome to Sorrento, you’ll need to transfer in Naples. The trip typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours [2].
When planning your transfer, keep in mind that the Circumvesuviana train runs every 30 minutes (but doesn’t operate on Sundays or holidays). For a more comfortable option, consider the Campania Express, which offers guaranteed seating and air conditioning [1].
Timing and fares can vary depending on the season. Here’s a quick look at how different times of the year can impact your travel experience [9]:
| Season | Pros | Things to Keep in Mind |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Jan–Mar) | Less crowded, lower fares | Limited tourist activities |
| Spring (Apr–May) | Comfortable weather | Passenger numbers start to rise |
| Summer (Jun–Sep) | Frequent train service | High demand can lead to crowded trains |
| Late Fall (Nov–Dec) | Fewer tourists | Transitioning out of peak season volumes |
Ticket prices from Rome to Sorrento range from $22 to $65, depending on the type of service and when you book [2].
Make sure to build some buffer time into your schedule, especially if you’re relying on the Circumvesuviana train, as delays can happen and may affect your connections [1].