Planning a trip to Southern Italy? While the views are undeniably breathtaking, navigating the public transportation along the Amalfi Coast can be quite intimidating. When I traveled from Zurich through Interlaken down to Southern Italy, the Amalfi Coast transit was the part I was most nervous about.
But don’t worry! Today, I’ll share my firsthand experience and the most up-to-date 2026 guide on taking the SITA bus from Sorrento to Positano.
1. Can I buy SITA bus tickets from the driver? (NO!)
This is the most common mistake tourists make. You CANNOT buy tickets with cash from the driver when boarding the SITA bus. Imagine waiting in a long line only to be denied boarding because you don’t have a ticket!
You must purchase your ticket before boarding.
- Where to buy: Ticket office in front of Sorrento Circumvesuviana train station or at any ‘Tabaccheria’ (tobacco/magazine shops with a big ‘T’ sign).
- Ticket Price (2026): One-way (AC2 zone) €2.60 / 24-hour unlimited pass (COSTIERASITA) €10.00
- 🔥 Mobile App Tip: If you want to skip the ticket lines, download the official local transit app ‘Unico Campania’. You can pay via phone and board by simply showing the QR code!
2. Motion Sickness Pills & The ‘Right Side’ Rule
The SS163 highway from Sorrento to Positano is a winding, cliffside road. While the views are spectacular, even those who don’t usually get carsick might feel dizzy. Taking motion sickness pills is highly recommended.
Also, when boarding the bus, if seats are available, make sure to sit on the RIGHT side (facing forward) by the window! The left side only shows rock walls, while the right side offers a sweeping, panoramic view of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the Amalfi Coast.
💡 Dread the Bus? Try the Ferry! (Editor’s Pick)
If winding cliff roads scare you, or if you want to avoid standing on crowded buses during peak season, we highly recommend taking the direct ferry from Sorrento to Positano. Viewing the majestic cliffs of Positano from the water is an unforgettable experience.
3. Where should I get off in Positano?
The town of Positano is built vertically on a steep cliff. The SITA bus typically makes two stops in Positano:
- Chiesa Nuova: Located at the upper part of the town. Get off here if your accommodation is higher up, or if you prefer to walk downhill while sightseeing.
- Sponda: Closer to the beach and the main downtown area. Recommended for day-trippers or those heading straight to the coastal restaurants.
🚐 Stress-Free: South Italy Day Tours
Train reservations, bus transfers, dragging luggage… If the public transit logistics are too stressful, booking a Full-Day Amalfi Coast Tour from Rome or Naples is an excellent choice. Expert guides handle all the transportation for you.
🚌 Quick Summary
- Buy tickets in advance or via the ‘Unico Campania’ app! (€2.60 one-way)
- Sit on the RIGHT side of the bus! Bring motion sickness pills!
- Get off at Sponda or Chiesa Nuova depending on your destination!
Keep these three tips in mind, and your Southern Italy transit will be a beautiful memory.
✨ Want to feel the true vibe of Southern Italy?
I captured the breathtaking beauty of Positano and my feelings on that cliffside bus in a cute 4-panel comic.
Click the button below to take a relaxing break on your journey!