George

This summer I would like to travel from Rome to Sorrento. I will have 2 adults/2children plus luggage. I believe that the train would be most economical but I am worried about changing trains at Naples. What would be the best way to go?
Also, is Naples worth going to (given its negative reputation) ?

cm

If you read the travel books by Rick Steves, he gives you specific instructions how to transfer. It is a hike up and down several flights of steps, so you need to keep luggage to a minimum. Where you wait for the commuter train to Sorrento is somewhat dark, but there are many people around. Stick together and you'll be fine. There is a train about every 20 minutes and the last stop is Sorrento. Buy your tickets at the window just before you head down to the track. You cannot miss the signs. Cannot speak to Naples but Sorrento and the area along the coast are truly beautiful.

Linda

I lived outside Napleas for over 3 years. Although there are certainly negatives about the city itself, I found that as long as I was prepared for the petty theft and stayed out of certain areas (few in number) the experience was one of the best of my life. The Museo Archeologico Nazionale has truly extraordinary exhibits and the markets are a wonderful way to spend a few hours. The Capella Sansevero, though small, has statuary the memory of which I will take to my grave, outstripping most things I saw even in the Vatican. The church of San Lorenzo Maggiore was gorgeous. The Castel dell'Ovo is well worth a visit. Besides, where else can you ride a finicula--the one the song "Finicula, Finicule" was written about. Capidonte's Royal Palace was wonderful. Worth a visit? Yes. Just be careful of the worst traffic I've ever seen (no rules apply) and keep your belonging close at hand. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Pleaes feel free to e-mail me for more information.

Mari

Linda, since you have lived outside of Naples for 3 years, I was wondering if you could calm my fears about visiting Torre del Greco. My mother was born there 80 years ago and came to America when she was 12. We took her back for the first time about 12 years ago and are planning to visit again in July. We do not plan to stay there - only a day trip to visit her home - we are staying near Sorrento. I know Torre del Greco has a bad reputation which really upsets my mother. But, when we were there 12 years ago we found everyone to be helpful. It was a little unsettling because of the fast paced driving and the huge crowds of people hanging around at all the intersections in the center of the town. We were careful but not so worried that we didn't enjoy locating and visiting her home. Should we be more concerned now?
Thanks,
Mari

Linda

Believe I answered you on the other posting. If I didn't, please e-mail me. I'll be glad to "chat" with you personally.

toby

Traveled from Rome via Naples to Sorrento 3 years ago with our teenage daughter and found it to be fine. Took about 2hrs 55min We did have our luggage on wheels which helps. Keep in mind that there are several staircases with 30 stairs or more in the Naples station.We had a lot of luggage and did use one of the men who are in the station that help with luggage...we set a price before hand and the man not only helped with the luggage, but led the way from one part of the station to another. We felt safe.
ALSO its only a taxi ride to Positano from Sorrento and I highly recommed. It
See more info on topic#20.
Also went to Herculaneum from Sorrento via the train easily. Its worth a visit.