Compare cheap car hire at Naples Airport with exact desk locations, shuttle details, driving tips and prices.
Naples International Airport (NAP), also known as Capodichino Airport, is the main gateway to southern Italy and the Amalfi Coast. Located just 7km from Naples city centre, it’s a busy airport but relatively compact compared to Rome or Milan.
Car hire here is popular for trips along the Amalfi Coast, to Pompeii, or further south towards Sorrento and Salerno.
Exactly Where to Find the Car Hire Desks
Naples is slightly different from many European airports, so it’s worth knowing this in advance.
Inside the terminal:
- Some desks (including Sixt and others) are located inside the arrivals hall or on the first floor of arrivals
Main car rental area:
- The primary car hire centre is located about 700 metres from the terminal near car parks P1 / P3
- You can either walk (around 10 minutes) or take the free shuttle bus running every 15 minutes
Important: Some companies operate directly at the terminal, while others require a shuttle transfer to off-site depots.
This setup is normal for Naples but can catch people out if they expect cars directly outside arrivals.
Direct Flights from Ireland
Naples has strong seasonal connectivity from Ireland, especially during spring and summer.
- Dublin → Naples (Aer Lingus, Ryanair – seasonal)
Flight time is typically around 3 hours.
Car Hire Companies at Naples Airport
You’ll find a wide range of providers, both international and Italian.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Locauto / Enterprise
- Sicily By Car
Most are grouped either inside the terminal or at the nearby rental centre.
Typical Car Hire Prices in Naples
| Season | Economy | Family Car | Larger Vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | €20 – €50 | €50 – €85 | €85 – €140 |
| April – June | €35 – €80 | €80 – €130 | €130 – €200 |
| July – August | €70 – €150 | €150 – €220 | €220 – €320 |
| September – October | €40 – €90 | €90 – €140 | €140 – €210 |
| November – December | €25 – €60 | €60 – €100 | €100 – €160 |
What Car Should You Choose?
This is one destination where vehicle choice really matters.
- Small cars – strongly recommended for Naples city and coastal roads
- Family cars – fine for longer motorway trips
- Estate cars – useful for luggage, but can be harder to park
- Larger vehicles – not ideal for Amalfi Coast roads
Parking and narrow streets make smaller cars the easiest option.
Driving from Naples Airport
The airport connects directly to major routes in southern Italy.
- Naples city centre – about 15 minutes
- Pompeii – around 25 minutes
- Sorrento – roughly 1 hour
- Amalfi Coast – about 1 hour 15 minutes
The A56 ring road and A3 motorway provide fast access out of the city.
If you’re comparing Italian entry points, you might also look at Rome Airport or Pisa Airport depending on your route.
Driving Tips for Naples (Important)
Driving in Naples is very different from most of Europe.
- Traffic can be chaotic, especially in the city
- Expect aggressive driving and limited lane discipline
- Parking is limited in central areas
Many travellers choose to:
- Skip driving in Naples city itself
- Pick up the car and leave the city immediately
For coastal routes like Amalfi, roads are narrow but incredibly scenic.
Official travel info is available via Italia.it.
Where a Car is Worth It
Once you leave Naples, a car becomes very useful.
- Amalfi Coast – Positano, Amalfi, Ravello
- Pompeii & Herculaneum – archaeological sites
- Sorrento Peninsula – coastal drives
- Cilento Coast – quieter alternative to Amalfi
Public transport exists, but it’s slower and less flexible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are car hire desks inside Naples Airport?
Some are inside the terminal, but many are located in a separate rental centre nearby.
Do I need a shuttle to collect my car?
In many cases yes, depending on the provider.
How far is the rental car park from the terminal?
About 700 metres, reachable by shuttle or a 10-minute walk.
Is driving in Naples difficult?
Yes, city driving can be challenging for visitors.
Should I drive on the Amalfi Coast?
Yes, but be prepared for narrow and winding roads.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, though manual vehicles are more common.
Do I need a credit card?
Yes, most rental providers require one.
Is parking easy?
No, parking can be difficult in Naples and coastal towns.
Can I rent a 7 Seater at Naples Airport?
Yes, but it may not be practical for coastal driving.
Which side of the road do you drive on?
On the right-hand side.
