Road trip from Rome to the Amalfi Coast
Has an unforgettable Italian journey from Rome along the stunning Amalfi Coast been on your bucket list for too long? Then this road trip definitely needs to be the next one you decide to take, where you get to experience impressive coastal views, Roman ruins, historic towns and beautiful parklands.
The 400 km road trip from Rome to Amalfi Coast will take 8 hours and 40 minutes to drive nonstop. You will drive past Vesuvius National Park, Pompei Archeological Park, Naples, Sperlonga, Montemiletto, Baronissi, Positano, Amalfi and Ravello.
Italy is known for its beautiful coastal towns and stunning beaches and this journey takes you through some of the best. Read on for more places to see, stay and explore while traveling along Italy's finest coastline.
How far is the Amalfi Coast from Rome, and how long will the road trip take?
| Route | Distance | Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| The Coastal Route | 400 kilometers | 8 hours 40 minutes |
| The Inland Park Route | 480 kilometers | 9 hours |
There are two very distinct, yet both very historic and scenic, journeys you can take for a great road trip between Rome and the Amalfi Coast. The Coastal Route with stunning sea views throughout takes just under 4 hours and is around 400 km.
The longer Inland Parks Route will take you to some of Italy's finest towns and historic sights, with a journey time of about 9 hours covering 480 km.
While both journeys are fairly direct and can be completed within one day, we suggest taking two to three days to explore as there is so much to see and do on this unforgettable road trip!
Best road trip route from Rome to the Amalfi Coast
The Mediterranean views during the Coastal Route compared to the lush landscapes of the Inland Parks Route are very different but both have many interesting sights to explore. Look at the highlights from each route to see what might appeal to you most before deciding which to take.
The Coastal Route is the shorter of the two options and takes you on a winding picturesque journey to some of the best old towns and beaches.
You'll get a chance to visit Vesuvius National Park, scale the heights of iconic Mount Vesuvius, and stop off in the birthplace of pizza, Naples. With plenty of sunbathing, swimming and gelato en route.
If you want to discover beautiful landscapes and views inland, then the Inland Parks Route is for you, with wilderness and wildlife aplenty in Parco Naturale Regionale Monti Simbruini, Parco Regionale del Matese and Parco Regionale Monti Picentini.
Want an afternoon off to rest your tired legs? Then a visit to the wineries of Montemiletto is just the ticket on the Inland Parks Route.
The Coastal Route
Head South from Rome, following the A21 until you reach Fiumicino. From here the SS296 will take you further South until you make the coast right by Shilling.
Continue to head along the SP601 which is a straightforward road alongside stunning coastal views. Just before Anzio move onto the SR207 to best navigate the town, before landing back on the coastal trail of the SP42 and then SR213 to Minturno.
From here the SS7qtr takes you all the way to Naples, your stop-off. Here sights include Museo Cappella Sansevero, a beautiful chapel that has timelessly left all art lovers in awe and is a must-see.
To get to the Amalfi Coast from here, follow the E45 until you reach Pompei, before taking the SS145 to Sorrento then the SS163 all the way to Salerno.
The Inland Park Route
From Rome, head onto the E80, where you pass Castel Madama and Parco Naturale Regionale Monti Simbruini before reaching Psecina. From here journey South along the winding roads of SS83 to Parco Nazionale D'Abruzzo Lazio e Molise just before stopping off at Opi.
The SS83 and then the SS158 will take you down to Parco Regionale del Matese, with the SS372 then passing Ente Parco Regionale Taburno Campsauro.
Head South from Castello del Lago on the E842 passing Montemiletto and Avellino, before taking the E841 to Salerno. A short journey then on the SS163 passes Amalfi before arriving at Sorrento.
Best places to stop between Rome to the Amalfi Coast
There are many wonderful sights along both the routes between Rome and the Amalfi Coast, so although the trips can be completed in a day, we are sure you'll want to stay over once you check out our accommodation suggestions.
Here are some great stopover options to make your journey extra special.
Enjoy piazzas and pizza in Naples
On the Coastal Route we recommend stopping off to explore Naples. Around two-thirds of the way through the journey, this is the perfect place to take a break to enjoy incredible sights and food in the city of Napoli.
While here check out Underground Naples to learn more about excavations and impressive sites including Galleria Borbonica, all under your feet! The beautiful hidden chapel is an exciting find.
For an authentic and informative tour then the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli ticks all the boxes. Teeming with Roman remains and artifacts, the Farnese Hercules is one of many masterpieces to see up close.
After a busy day sightseeing head back to the Eurostars Hotel Excelsior, where the views over the Bay of Naples make the perfect backdrop as you enjoy an aperitif.
Grand and elegant room designs as well as the communal areas have a really luxurious feel, and you can wind down further with a trip to the spa or state-of-art fitness center.
The hotel offers a delicious continental breakfast served every day, as well as a Mediterranean feast come dinner time at the on-site Ristorante La Terrazza.
Visit Abruzzo National Park for the day – and night
On the Inland Park Route Opi is a great stopover option, nestled halfway in the journey. Set in the National Park of Abruzzo, it is surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges and wild landscapes and a real change of pace.
When you arrive take time to explore Centro Storico di Opi. Wandering the pretty streets, historic buildings and museums provides plenty to do for an afternoon.
For those fancying something a little more strenuous, head to Val Fondillo and take one of the several trails through the beautiful landscape. There is a great scenic picnic spot too so ideal for a midday hike.
Our top accommodation recommendation here is La Pieja set within the expansive grounds of National Park Abruzzo. The rustic-style rooms are well equipped, but the knock-out attraction is the incredible view from the terrace across the park – the perfect spot to wind down after a busy day.
Hungry? Head to the onsite restaurant, Ristorante La Terrazza, serving up delicious breakfasts and local and Italian evening meals, meaning that you can relax in the comfort of your own accommodation after a long but rewarding day of sightseeing.
Where to stay when you reach the Amalfi Coast
Known for its stunning coastal views, what better way to see those than from the comfort of our recommended lodging, Hotel Santa Caterina, which has breathtaking views of the famed Amalfi Coast?
The beautiful Art Nouveau villa is located on a cliff that overlooks the deep blue sea with terraces and a fabulous pool with amazing sea views – even a private beach. The stylishly decorated rooms also reflect the Amalfi style design and feature balconies with stunning sea views.
Experience the ultimate, celebrity-style relaxation at the hotel's sauna, Turkish bath or pamper yourself with a massage. Then head to the hotel's on-site restaurant which proudly holds a Michelin-award.
Its lovely and close to many top attractions too, including gorgeous Positano, which is only a short drive away.
Things to see on a road trip from Rome to the Amalfi Coast
The journey between Rome and the Amalfi Coast is fairly straightforward and short, but can easily be extended to a few days to take in many wonderful sights and attractions along the way.
If time is limited, then we have pulled together the list below which showcases the highlights and must-see places to stop off and explore.
The Coastal Route
- Fiumicino - A small fishing village, head here for dinner and enjoy an amazing feast in one of many seafood restaurants lining the harbour.
- Porto di Anzio - A great spot to head to for gelato and a coffee while watching the boats pass by. Fanciulla D'Anzio beach a particular draw.
- San Felice Circeo - Part of the Circeo National Park, take a guided tour around the area to understand more about its historical relevance. The Neanderthals artefacts discovered here are particularly interesting.
- Sperlonga - Wander the cobbled old town streets exploring Sperlonga, with many interest points dotted along the coastline, such as Torre Truglia.
- Parco Naturale dei Monti Aurunci - Set in Lazio, there are numerous hikes that can be taken to explore the landscape. An easier route, Campodimele Taverna, is a round route that has some great views.
- Chiesa di San Pietro Apostolo - A hidden gem in the town of Minturno, this beautiful cathedral stands proud.
- Castel Volturno - Known as the ‘castle on the River Volturno' this seaside town is perfect for a stop off. Visit the Lido Pagano for a delicious beachfront lunch.
- Naples - The birthplace of pizza, Naples provides many historical and religious landmarks to visit in the day to work up an appetite, before heading to a local pizzeria for a Naples specialty.
- Parco Nazionale del Vesuvio - What is not be seen at Vesuvius National Park. The myriad of scenery at this site and stunning views is breath-taking. Pre-book a tour to see Mount Vesuvius up close.
- Pompei Archeological Park - Feel like you are stepping back in time to the life of a Roman. The ruins are impressive and informative, and reveals the way of life over two thousand years ago.
The Inland Parks Route
- Parco Naturale Regionale Monti Simbruini - The largest protected area of Lazio, discover a range of trails to enjoy across this picturesque landscape. With over 100 mountains to admire, with the tallest Monte Viglio holding some of the best views.
- Centro Storico di Villetta Barrea - Stop off for a walking tour around the cobbled streets and learn more about this commune town.
- Castel San Vincenzo - The largest village in Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park, with incredible views of the neighbouring mountain range and lake. A must-see here are the ruins of San Vincenzo al Volturno abbey, a prominent site with interesting history.
- Parco Regionale del Matese - Make sure to take your hiking boots as there is much to see across the Parco Regionale del Matese landscape. As you head deeper and higher across the park, the views across lakes Matese, Gallo, and Letino are incredible.
- Ente Parco Regionale Taburno Camposauro - Head to the village of Sant'Agata de' Goti, where the landscape, monuments and views are breathtaking.
- Centro Storico di Benevento - Stroll happily around this Italian town center, soaking up the local life as well as the impressive sights of the Roman Amphitheatre and the Trajan Arch. There are plenty of places here to stop for gelato and coffee along the way.
- Montemiletto - There local wineries in Montemiletto are renowned, where a tasty bottle of Montecillo Rioja Reserva is highly regarded worldwide. Head for an afternoon at Fattoria Lornano Winery to discover more about this area's wine passion.
- Parco Regionale Monti Picentini - With a park as big as this, over 62,000 hectares, there is plenty to explore. Take one of the trails across the interesting grounds where you may come across the beautiful Valle Della Caccia natural oasis.
- Baronissi - Set in the province of Salerno, this is a perfect town to stop off for a wander. Head to Convento Francescano Santissima Trinita di Baronissi to enjoy the sights of the pretty chapel and grounds.
- Duomo di Salerno - No visit to Salerno is complete without a tour around this famous landmark. The impressive medieval architecture and decoration are considered some of the best in the country, with the beautiful crypt a particular draw.
Both Routes
- Amalfi - There is plenty to see and do for the day in Amalfi. Make sure to take a visit to the Duomo di Amalfi, a magnificent cathedral. Afterwards visit Ruga Nova Mercatorum to stop off for refreshments.
- Ravello - Seen as a hidden gem, this hilltop town has incredible views across the Mediterranean. Arrive here in the summer and the ‘city of music' showcases some amazing talent with the coastal views used as a backdrop for these concerts.
- Positano - The pretty coloured buildings and stunning sea views are a real draw to the town of Positano. Enjoy touring this area, with many popular hikes to get an even better view of the magnificent coastline.
Best time to go on a road trip from Rome to the Amalfi Coast
The appeal of the Amalfi Coast, such as the views and sunshine, beaches and outdoor exploring, is best suited to the warmer weather when all the attractions and hospitality are open.
Winter really is the off-season, and many attractions and water activities just don't open, so expect it to be very quiet. During the holiday season around Christmas and New Year an atmosphere builds once again, but this is short-lived. From February onwards is when the buzz begins to return.
Head to the Amalfi Coast during the hottest months between May and September, when temperatures are up to around 27 degrees Celsius, and the beaches are very pleasant and the sea temperatures warm. Perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Summer is also a very popular time to visit, so accommodation is at a premium and tourist attractions can be particularly busy. Make sure to plan well if visiting during this time to get the best deals.
Many travelers find that spring and fall are both great times to visit where the weather is still lovely and warm at around 22 degrees Celsius, plus all the attractions are open but not packed. It might be a little rainier, so be prepared with sunscreen as well as an umbrella!
There are many festivals along the Amalfi Coast throughout spring and summer. The Amalfi Summer Fest is a music event held every Friday and draws a large crowd and popular musicians.
There are also theater productions and literary events during this time. In Ravello September also sees the launch of the Ravello Festival, which is packed with national and international musicians.
Make sure to visit Luminaria di San Domenico if you head in August. A thousand lights illuminate Piazza San Gennero to celebrate the rich history of the area. Festival on the Path of the Gods in Agerol also showcases the best the district has to offer, through tasty food and musical talent.
