There’s something unforgettable about seeing Italy from the water. As you glide across Lake Como or approach the pastel villages of the Amalfi Coast by boat, everyday travel turns into something extraordinary. Ferries in Italy aren’t just a practical way to get around; they’re a front-row seat to some of the country’s most breathtaking views.
Across Italy, ferries link lakeside towns, coastal villages, and island ports – connecting regions that trains and buses can’t easily reach. From the alpine beauty of Lake Garda to the turquoise shores of Sicily and Sardinia, this guide explains how Italy’s ferry systems work, when to travel, and where to find schedules and make reservations.
Whether you’re planning a lake-hopping day trip or an island adventure, here’s everything you need to know about traveling Italy by ferry.
Check ferry routes and book tickets on Omio.
Ferries in Italy Overview
Ferries are a vital part of Italy’s transport network, connecting communities along the country’s extensive coastlines and across its major lakes. You’ll find everything from small local passenger ferries to large overnight ships that carry cars, trucks, and travelers between the mainland and the islands.
There are three main types of ferry routes within Italy:
- Local ferries on the northern and central lakes, perfect for sightseeing and short hops.
- Coastal ferries linking seaside towns, especially along the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre.
- Long-distance ferries connecting mainland ports with islands like Sicily and Sardinia.
Schedules are busiest between April and October, while some services run year-round on the larger lakes and major island routes.
Related guide: Transportation in Italy
Ferry Travel on Italy’s Lakes
Italy’s northern lakes offer some of the most scenic ferry journeys in the country. Ferries crisscross Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore, linking charming villages, gardens, and resorts that might otherwise be tricky to reach without a car.
Lake Como Ferries
Operated by Navigazione Lago di Como, ferries connect the lake’s most beloved destinations – Como, Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio. Both passenger-only and car ferries are available, running frequently in summer and year-round on the main routes. It’s one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the lake, with panoramic views at every turn. Note that services are heavily reduced outside the peak summer season from May to September.
Related guide: Lake Como Itinerary Ideas
Check schedules: Omio or Navigazione Lago di Como.
Lake Garda Ferries
Navigazione Lago di Garda operates regular services between towns like Sirmione, Desenzano, Riva del Garda, Limone, and Malcesine. Choose between slow scenic boats or fast hydrofoils depending on your route and timing. Many travelers use the ferry to hop between towns up and down the lake and for sightseeing with stunning mountain backdrops. Time your travels carefully as trip durations are longer than you might expect. Check schedules: Omio or Navigazione Lago di Garda
Related guide: Things to Do Lake Garda
Lake Maggiore Ferries
Ferries on Lake Maggiore, managed by Navigazione Lago Maggiore, travel between Italian and Swiss towns and offer easy access to the Borromean Islands – Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori. Services run most of the year, with additional summer schedules to the Swiss border at Locarno. Check schedules: Omio or Navigazione Lago di Garda.
Cinque Terre Ferries
In Liguria, ferries offer a beautiful way to move between the five villages of Cinque Terre and nearby Portovenere. Operated by the Consorzio Marittimo Turistico Golfo dei Poeti, these boats run roughly from April to October, depending on sea conditions.
Routes connect Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola, Riomaggiore, and Portovenere, offering spectacular views of the cliffs and pastel houses from the sea. They’re a peaceful alternative to crowded trains or hiking paths – though it’s always wise to check weather forecasts, as rough seas can cause delays and cancellations occur quite frequently. The train system is a useful back up.
Related guide: Cinque Terre Itinerary
Check schedules: Omio or Navigazione Golfo dei Poeti.
Amalfi Coast Ferries
On the southern coast, ferries are often faster and far more relaxing than driving the winding coastal roads. Services typically run from April to October, linking the main towns and islands in the region – Capri, Ischia and Procida.
The main operators are Travelmar, NLG (Navigazione Libera del Golfo), and Alicost. Routes connect Salerno, Amalfi, Positano, Sorrento, Capri, and Naples. Most trips take 20–60 minutes, with frequent departures during summer.
Travelers often combine ferry travel with sightseeing stops – for example, spending a few hours in Amalfi before sailing to Positano or Capri. It’s an easy, scenic, and time-efficient way to explore the coast.
Note – ferries are extremely busy in the summer months and it is wise to book in advance.
Check schedules for all operators on Omio or each of the operators’ websites for seasonal updates.
Related guide: Amalfi Coast itinerary ideas
Ferries to Sicily and Sardinia
Italy’s major islands are connected to the mainland by large ferries that can carry cars, motorcycles, and passengers. These routes are ideal for travelers planning longer road trips or avoiding internal flights.
For both islands, booking ahead in summer is essential. If considering taking your rental car, check in with the operator terms and conditions before booking your ferry travel.
Ferries to Sicily
Ferries depart from Naples, Salerno, Rome's Civitavecchia, and Genoa, arriving in Palermo, Catania, and Messina. Main operators include Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), Tirrenia, and Siremar. Crossings take between 8 and 12 hours, with overnight options offering cabins and onboard dining.
Related guide: Sicily Travel Guide
Ferries to Sardinia
From Civitavecchia, Livorno, Genoa, and Naples, ferries connect to Olbia, Porto Torres, and Cagliari. Operated by Moby Lines, Tirrenia, and Grimaldi Lines, these ships offer comfortable crossings and are popular with families and travelers bringing cars or campervans.
Compare routes and ticket prices on Omio.
How to Book Ferry Tickets in Italy
You can check routes and book most ferries in Italy through Omio, which shows up-to-date schedules, ticket prices, and travel times. For local services, it’s also worth visiting the official ferry company websites or buying tickets at the port. Here are a few useful tips:
- Book ahead in summer and on island routes.
- Arrive early: 20–30 minutes before departure.
- Bring ID and ticket (digital or printed).
- Check luggage and vehicle rules if you’re traveling with bags or a car.
- Check if there are any restrictions for bringing your rental car
If you need help coordinating ferries with trains and transfers, book in with one of our trip planning consultants who can assist with planning logistics and your itinerary.
Ferries vs Trains and Buses in Italy
Ferries are slower than trains but often more scenic and relaxing, especially along the coast or across lakes. They’re ideal for reaching destinations not served by rail, such as Capri, Ischia, Portovenere, or Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore.
Many travelers combine ferries with train travel: for example, taking the train to Como or Salerno and continuing by ferry. Buses can also fill the gaps between ports and inland towns.
Related guides: Trains in Italy and Buses in Italy
Frequently Asked Questions about Ferries in Italy
Do you need to book in advance?
Yes, especially in summer or on long-distance routes to Sicily and Sardinia. Local lake ferries can usually be booked on the day.
Can you take cars on ferries?
Yes, on major routes to Sicily and Sardinia and some lake services like Lake Como and Lake Garda.
Are ferries reliable in winter?
Schedules are reduced, and smaller coastal routes may pause until spring. Always check ahead.
How long do ferry trips take?
From 15 minutes between lake villages to overnight sailings from Naples to Palermo.
Are ferries accessible?
Most modern ferries are wheelchair-friendly, but it’s best to confirm when booking.
Plan Your Italian Adventure by Ferry
Traveling by ferry in Italy opens a different window onto the country – one filled with fresh air, scenic coastlines, and easy connections between lakes, islands, and seaside towns. Whether you’re drifting between Bellagio and Varenna, taking in the cliffs of Positano from the sea, or sailing overnight from Naples to Palermo, ferry journeys reveal the magic of Italy’s landscapes from a new perspective.
To plan your routes with confidence, explore ferry schedules on Omio, or use our Untold Italy App for regional guides and insider tips. And if you’d like expert help weaving ferries, trains, and drives into one seamless trip, our Trip Planning Service can help you design the perfect itinerary.
NEED SOME HELP planning your Italy trip?
Join our Untold Italy Substack, where Katy shares curated thoughts, mini guides, and special recommendations or read our best tips from the Italy Trip Planning Guide.
Got questions about where to go, how to get around, or what to do? Our members are here to help.
Subscribe for podcast and email updates and we’ll send you our Italy Trip Planning Toolkit as a thank you 👉 Click here to sign up
Italy City Guides
