Alghero to Amalfi Road Trip Guide: Scenic Drive Italy

The route from Alghero to Amalfi stretches 950 km across two islands and the Italian mainland. The ferry from Porto Torres to Genoa saves 400 km of driving but adds 12 hours at sea.

Alghero, known for its Catalan heritage and coral reefs, sits on Sardinia's northwest coast. Amalfi, a former maritime republic, clings to towering cliffs south of Naples.

From Alghero, take the SS127 south to Porto Torres. Ferries to Genoa depart daily; book ahead for vehicle spaces. Prices from €120–€200 one way.

After docking in Genoa, follow the A12 east, then A1 south toward Rome. At Salerno, switch to the SS163 Amalfitana, a winding coastal road with spectacular views.

• Driving time: Alghero to Genoa: 35 min + 12 hr ferry. Genoa to Amalfi: 5.5 hr (excluding stops). Total: about 18 hours including ferry.
• Tolls: A12/A1: €35-€45. No tolls on SS163.
• Fuel costs: 950 km at 7 L/100km ≈ 66 L, €1.85/L ≈ €122. Premium diesel recommended.
• Fuel stations: Frequent on highways; rare on SS163. Fill up in Genoa or Salerno.

Best stops Alghero to Amalfi include the medieval town of Lucca (A11 exit) and the UNESCO site of Pompeii (A3 exit). For hidden gems, use how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

The drive transitions from Sardinia's limestone plateaus to the Apennines' oak forests and the citrus groves of Campania. Ferry crossing offers views of Corsica's mountains.

On the Amalfi Coast, terraced vineyards and lemon groves cling to vertical cliffs. The road tunnels through rock, each curve revealing a new pastel village.

• UNESCO sites: Portovenere (Liguria), Cinque Terre (short detour), Pompeii (A3 exit), and the Amalfi Coast itself.
• Local crafts: Sardinian filigree coral jewelry in Alghero; limoncello in Sorrento; hand-painted ceramics in Minori.
• Regional food: Pesto alla Genovese in Liguria; sfogliatella pastries in Naples; fresh mozzarella from Agerola.

Climate varies: Sardinia in summer is hot and dry; Liguria enjoys mild winters; Amalfi's spring is lush. Sunset from the ferry deck or from a viewpoint above Positano is unforgettable.

The SS163 Amalfitana is narrow, with hairpin turns and sheer drops. Drive slowly and use low gears. Night driving is not recommended due to poor lighting and unpredictable fog.

Highways (A12, A1) are well-maintained, well-lit, and have emergency phones every 2 km. Toll booths accept cards.

• Family stops: Acquario di Genova (largest in Europe); Cinecittà World near Rome; Edenlandia in Naples. Play areas at Autogrill along A1.
• Pet-friendly: Ferry allows dogs in kennels; many beaches in Liguria permit dogs; pet-friendly cafes in Amalfi (e.g., Bar del Duomo).
• Hidden off-route spots: The abandoned village of Craco (Matera, 30 min detour); the Roman bridge of Ponte della Maddalena in Borgo a Mozzano (Lucca).

Fatigue management: Rest at the Autogrill Serravalle (A12), the Pisa Ovest area (A12), or the Cassino area (A1). All have shaded parking, clean restrooms, and coffee bars. Short naps are safe in guarded parking lots.

Is it worth driving Alghero to Amalfi? Absolutely for those who love diverse landscapes and cultural immersion. How long to drive Alghero to Amalfi? Plan two days with an overnight in Genoa or Tuscany.