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Italian Seaside Splendor: A 10-Day Journey Through Naples & Sorrento

Name: Italian Seaside Splendor: A 10-Day Journey Through Naples & Sorrento
Brand: Go Real Travel
SKU: amalfi-coast-italy-itinerary-10-days
Price: 2699 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.86 (72 reviews)

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Naples

Sorrento

Nature LoversExploring Scenic Countryside

Experience the charm and beauty of Italy's stunning coastline on this 10-day journey through Naples and Sorrento. Discover the rich history of Pompeii, hike the breathtaking Path of the Gods, and explore the enchanting Isle of Capri. Relax on Fornillo Beach, savor fresh seafood, and enjoy private guided tours that reveal hidden gems. Wander through historic coastal towns, visit the magnificent Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, and take in the panoramic views from the heights of Mount Vesuvius. With detailed travel guidance available through our mobile app, every moment of this adventure promises to be unforgettable.

Trip Highlights

Wander through the historic streets and vibrant markets of Naples on a private guided walking tour.
Experience the ancient wonders of the Roman Empire on a self-guided excursion to Pompeii.
Enjoy a private Guided Hike of the Gods, renowned for its stunning views of the Amalfi Coast.
Take in the stunning beauty of the coastline from the Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.
Explore the picturesque Isle of Capri with its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.

Must-See Sights

Situated on a narrow street in the maze-like historic district, the modest exterior of Cappella Sansevero might fool you into believing it’s an ordinary chapel. Behind the museum entrance, however, lies a collection of intricate Baroque sculptures flanked by astounding wall and ceiling frescoes. While each sculpture is a masterpiece in its own right, it’s the sculpture of the Veiled Christ, which draws in thousands of visitors every year. This Baroque marble sculpture depicts Jesus after his crucifixion. Lying on his back, Jesus is draped head to toe in a transparent sheet through which you can see every subtle detail, from the holes in his hands to the pain frozen on his face. The realism is so accurate that it produced a legend; it’s believed that alchemy was involved in the creation of this sculpture.
Situated on Vomero hill at one of the city’s highest points, this ancient medieval fortress offers incredible views of the Bay of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius. Castel Sant’Elmo has served various roles throughout the centuries, including a church, a castle, and a political prison. If you visit today, you’ll find a museum filled with the works of Neapolitan artists. Wander through the maze of rooms to admire the remarkable assemblage of 20th-century paintings and sculptures. When you’ve had your fill, head up to the lookout point, where you can snap some gorgeous photos for your own collection.
Commissioned by the Bourbon King Charles III of Naples, the Teatro San Carlo is the main opera house of Naples. Although the original 1737 opera theater burned down in 1816, the 19th-century reconstruction by Antonio Niccolini’s is just as opulent as the original. Balconies with ornate moldings are arranged on six levels, and the massive, 3,600-square-meter stage has hosted performances by some of the world’s greatest singers and conductors. The interior sings just as much as the performers, with rings of red velvet and gold flanking the magnificent ceiling fresco. If you have time on your visit to Naples, book tickets to see a performance at this grand theater. If not, you can still schedule a guided tour to see the lavish interior for yourself.
A trip to Naples just wouldn’t be complete without visiting one of the largest and most famous archaeological museums in the world. The National Archaeological Museum is a treasure trove of Greek and Roman antiquities, from classical busts of famous Roman emperors to marble sculptures depicting the gods and heroes from Greek mythology. There are countless corridors and rooms to explore in this massive museum. Check out the mosaics, frescoes, and other artifacts excavated from Pompeii and Herculaneum. These two towns were destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in the year 79 A.D. If that’s not enough to sate your curiosity, head downstairs for the ancient Egypt exhibit, featuring an impressive collection of mummies and sarcophagi.
Located in the Centro Storico, or historic district of Napoli, Via San Gregorio Armeno is an alley famous for the hundreds of artisan workshops selling handcrafted Nativity scenes and figurines. These pastori (nativity cribs) are a defining aspect of the Neapolitan identity. If you take a closer look at each intricate detail and colorful stroke of paint, you’ll understand why these miniatures are more than souvenirs. They are tangible local pride and traditions that characterize Southern Italy. Over half a million tourists come to this street to stock up on their nativity figures. Although the shops are open year-round, the best time to visit is during September or October. Just before the busy season, this is the time when the artisans are preparing their shops for Christmas.
Housed in a former oratory, San Francesco d’Assisi Church is characterized by its serene marble facade and open arcade with stone arches dripping in ivy. At the center of the courtyard is a large tree surrounded by exotic foliage. It’s not surprising that many Italian couples choose this church as their ideal wedding venue. Visit during the spring or summer, and you might catch a glimpse of a beautiful bride on her special day. It’s also a peaceful setting to relax and admire the landscaped surroundings.
Situated on the lemon tree-lined Corso Italia, Sorrento Cathedral is an impressive Romanesque church with a triple-tiered bell tower. The inside was remodeled in a Baroque fashion after a 16th-century invasion. Upon walking into the cathedral, you’ll notice the dramatic altar at the center flanked by vivid wall and ceiling frescoes. Examples of Sorrento’s famed intarsio (wood mosaic) work can also be spotted, along with paintings by artists from Sorrento’s Neapolitan School of the 1700s.
Named after the famous Sorrento-born poet Torquato Tasso, Piazza Tasso is the main square and heart of the coastal town. It was built on top of a gorge that cuts Sorrento into two parts. During the day, crowds of locals and tourists venture into the piazza to dine at a surrounding restaurant or sample fresh produce from a fruit stands. The Baroque Church of Santa Maria del Carmine is one of the stunning historical monuments surrounding the square. Step inside and admire its impressive collection of Renaissance frescoes. Piazza Tasso is also a great starting point for Via San Cesareo, a leafy street lined with souvenir shops, fashion boutiques, and hip cafes.
Just a few steps from Piazza Tasso, Marina Piccola is a small harbor in Sorrento. When you visit, you can hop on a ferry or jet boat to the islands of Capri or Ischia Porto, as well as other nearby coastal towns, including the Amalfi Coast and Positano. If you want to spend a day at the beach, the port also features a small yet gorgeous stretch of beach with a nearby parade of restaurants and cafes offering sea views. On a hot summer day, there’s nothing better than to sip a refreshing Aperol Spritz while sunbathing near the crystal clear waters.

Amalfi Coast in Ten Days Trip Itinerary, Day by Day

Arrival
Train: 1h
Departure

Day 1
Arrive Naples
To Be Determined
Arrival in Naples Airport and Transfer by Taxi
Naples has one main airport, Naples Capodichino International Airport. Official taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. Official Naples taxis are white, with registration numbers on the front doors and a taxi sign on the roof. Uber is not available in Naples.
Mid-Day/Afternoon
Exploring the Neopolitan Waterfront
As you walk along the historic Neopolitan waterfront you'll encounter two imposing yet stately medieval castle-fortresses. Built by Naples' former Spanish rulers, they command glorious views out over the Bay of Naples and Mt Vesuvius beyond. There's also the grand Palazzo Reale, a palace erected by the Bourbon kings that faces the monumental square of Piazza del Plebiscito on one side and the famous San Carlo Theater on the other. You can cut right through the heart of Naples on the Spaccanapoli, a straight, narrow main street that has been that way since it was first built in Roman times is the straight and narrow main street that traverses the old, historic center of the city of Naples, Italy. The name is a popular usage and means, literally, "Naples splitter". TBut of course you'll want to wander of the many side streets amazing churches, and chaotic.
Late Afternoon/Early Evening
Naples Old Town
Slightly dilapidated and chaotic, but always energetic and effervescent, Naples's historic center has plenty of historic buildings and narrow alleys to keep you busy for several hours. Neapolitans often keep their front door open directly onto the street, exposing everyday life and family routines to passersby, making the experience all the more memorable and authentic. Starting out from the Piazza del Gesù, with its fanciful Baroque plague column, you can cut right through the heart of old Naples on the crowded, chaotic Spaccanapoli. This straight, narrow main street was first built as the main thoroughfare of the original Roman town. Spaccanapoli is actually not an official street name but a popular term that literally means the "Naples splitter". It's full of life and noisy motorpeds at most times of the day, with some of the best street food on offer in Naples. It gets very crowded at certain spots in the evenings when the student population descends upon its favorite outdoor cafes and bars. But of course you'll want to wander into the warren of narrow lanes on either side of the Spaccanapoli, where you'll discover amazing churches, tiny little squares, and an abundance of restaurants, pubs, and cafes.
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Day 1 Arrive Naples
Day 1
Arrive Naples
Naples Waterfront
Overview
Airport Transfer by Taxi
Naples has one main airport, Naples Capodichino International Airport. Official taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. Official Naples taxis are white, with registration numbers on the front doors and a taxi sign on the roof. Uber is not available in Naples.
Naples Waterfront
As you walk along the historic Neopolitan waterfront you'll encounter two imposing yet stately medieval castle-fortresses. Built by Naples' former Spanish rulers, they command glorious views out over the Bay of Naples and Mt Vesuvius beyond. There's also the grand Palazzo Reale, a palace erected by the Bourbon kings that faces the monumental square of Piazza del Plebiscito on one side and the famous San Carlo Theater on the other. You can cut right through the heart of Naples on the Spaccanapoli, a straight, narrow main street that has been that way since it was first built in Roman times is the straight and narrow main street that traverses the old, historic center of the city of Naples, Italy. The name is a popular usage and means, literally, "Naples splitter". TBut of course you'll want to wander of the many side streets amazing churches, and chaotic.
Naples Old Town
Slightly dilapidated and chaotic, but always energetic and effervescent, Naples's historic center has plenty of historic buildings and narrow alleys to keep you busy for several hours. Neapolitans often keep their front door open directly onto the street, exposing everyday life and family routines to passersby, making the experience all the more memorable and authentic. Starting out from the Piazza del Gesù, with its fanciful Baroque plague column, you can cut right through the heart of old Naples on the crowded, chaotic Spaccanapoli. This straight, narrow main street was first built as the main thoroughfare of the original Roman town. Spaccanapoli is actually not an official street name but a popular term that literally means the "Naples splitter". It's full of life and noisy motorpeds at most times of the day, with some of the best street food on offer in Naples. It gets very crowded at certain spots in the evenings when the student population descends upon its favorite outdoor cafes and bars. But of course you'll want to wander into the warren of narrow lanes on either side of the Spaccanapoli, where you'll discover amazing churches, tiny little squares, and an abundance of restaurants, pubs, and cafes.
Piazza del Plebiscito
Highlight of Naples Waterfront
Visit the city's most iconic square and its most popular gathering spot.
Piazza del Plebiscito is Naples' largest and most important piazza. Entering the more than 6 acre large square on the southwest corner, you will be greeted by a grand spectacle. The Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale) stands on one side of the piazza and a long classically-inspired collonade runs along the other side. You are still only steps from the waterfront, and behind you the sea stretches across the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius looms. The colonnade was first created by Joachim Murat, one of Napoleon's field marshall's who was made King of Naples as a reward for his loyalty and success. After his overthrow though, the Bourbon King Ferdinand I made sure to add a church to the center of the colonnade: the Basilica of St. Francis of Paola. This was partially intended as a thumb in the eye to Murat and to the secular ideals of the French Revolution which had briefly overthrown his kingdom. Despite this, the basilica does at least reinforce Murat's classical theme, as it resembles the Pantheon of Rome. Ironically, the square is now also a rebuke to the Bourbons, as it was renamed the "Piazza del Plebiscito" after the referendum which ratified the end of Bourbon rule.
Castel Nuovo
Highlight of Naples Waterfront
Wander a medieval castle which is one of the city's most famous monuments.
Built in 1282 by the Angevins rulers and later converted into a royal residence by the Aragon monarchs from Spain, the imposing fortress is an important symbol of Naples. Take a stroll around its towering walls, enjoy excellent views over the bay and visit the Palatine Chapel to see its beautiful frescoes. You can also take a guided tour of the castle, including the uppermost terrace, towers, and the basement, which doubled as the castle's dungeon.
Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale)
Highlight of Naples Waterfront
Discover the lavish former home of Naples' Kings and Queens inside this restored historic palace.
The Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) was built in the 1600's during Spanish rule. The Spanish viceroys had tired of living in the next-door Castel Nuovo, which by then was a drafty, old-fashioned castle. The palace later became the royal residence of the Kingdom of Naples. You can explore its lavishly decorated apartments and impressive throne room while learning all about the city's royal history. The palace interior is now the Museo dell'Appartamento Storico del Palazzo Reale - a complex of fine halls with period furniture, tapestries, paintings, and porcelain, accessed by a grand staircase. There are good views of Castel Nuovo from the upper floors, and the chapel on the far side of the central courtyard has one of the city's biggest presepi (Christmas crib) filled with 210 18th-century figures. Behind the palace, you'll find the tranquil Giardino Reale gardens and a group of 19th-century sculptures called Horse Trainers by Czar Nicholas I's favorite sculptor. It's also the location of the National Library, founded in 1734 and the most important library in southern Italy
Castel dell'Ovo
Highlight of Naples Waterfront
Enjoy amazing views as you stand on the ramparts of this imposing fortress jutting out into the sea.
Standing on the ancient island of Megaris which is joined to the shore by a pier, this medieval fortress was built in the 1200's AD on the remains of an earlier Roman villa. Known as the "egg-castle", it takes its name from the legend that it was built over an egg placed here by the Roman poet Virgil: it is believed that if the egg breaks, Naples will fall. According to another old legend, the lifeless body of the mermaid Parthenope was washed ashore here after she gave herself up to death upon failing to win the heart of Ulysses. Hence the name of the waterfront street facing the castle - Via Partenhope. Other than the Museum of Ethnoprehistory housed within the castle, there's not too much to see in the interiors, but that's okay because the views are the best in town: a 360-degree panorama over the entire bay and back over Naples itself. When you're finished, you can go for drinks at one of the quayside restaurants in the Borgo Marinaro below.
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To Be Determined: Airport Transfer by Taxi
Naples has one main airport, Naples Capodichino International Airport. Official taxis are available directly at the terminal exit, or you can arrange a private transfer for added convenience. Official Naples taxis are white, with registration numbers on the front doors and a taxi sign on the roof. Uber is not available in Naples.
Mid-Day/Afternoon: Naples Waterfront
As you walk along the historic Neopolitan waterfront you'll encounter two imposing yet stately medieval castle-fortresses. Built by Naples' former Spanish rulers, they command glorious views out over the Bay of Naples and Mt Vesuvius beyond. There's also the grand Palazzo Reale, a palace erected by the Bourbon kings that faces the monumental square of Piazza del Plebiscito on one side and the famous San Carlo Theater on the other. You can cut right through the heart of Naples on the Spaccanapoli, a straight, narrow main street that has been that way since it was first built in Roman times is the straight and narrow main street that traverses the old, historic center of the city of Naples, Italy. The name is a popular usage and means, literally, "Naples splitter". TBut of course you'll want to wander of the many side streets amazing churches, and chaotic.
Piazza del Plebiscito
Visit the city's most iconic square and its most popular gathering spot.
Piazza del Plebiscito is Naples' largest and most important piazza. Entering the more than 6 acre large square on the southwest corner, you will be greeted by a grand spectacle. The Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale) stands on one side of the piazza and a long classically-inspired collonade runs along the other side. You are still only steps from the waterfront, and behind you the sea stretches across the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius looms. The colonnade was first created by Joachim Murat, one of Napoleon's field marshall's who was made King of Naples as a reward for his loyalty and success. After his overthrow though, the Bourbon King Ferdinand I made sure to add a church to the center of the colonnade: the Basilica of St. Francis of Paola. This was partially intended as a thumb in the eye to Murat and to the secular ideals of the French Revolution which had briefly overthrown his kingdom. Despite this, the basilica does at least reinforce Murat's classical theme, as it resembles the Pantheon of Rome. Ironically, the square is now also a rebuke to the Bourbons, as it was renamed the "Piazza del Plebiscito" after the referendum which ratified the end of Bourbon rule.
Castel Nuovo
Wander a medieval castle which is one of the city's most famous monuments.
Built in 1282 by the Angevins rulers and later converted into a royal residence by the Aragon monarchs from Spain, the imposing fortress is an important symbol of Naples. Take a stroll around its towering walls, enjoy excellent views over the bay and visit the Palatine Chapel to see its beautiful frescoes. You can also take a guided tour of the castle, including the uppermost terrace, towers, and the basement, which doubled as the castle's dungeon.
Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale)
Discover the lavish former home of Naples' Kings and Queens inside this restored historic palace.
The Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) was built in the 1600's during Spanish rule. The Spanish viceroys had tired of living in the next-door Castel Nuovo, which by then was a drafty, old-fashioned castle. The palace later became the royal residence of the Kingdom of Naples. You can explore its lavishly decorated apartments and impressive throne room while learning all about the city's royal history. The palace interior is now the Museo dell'Appartamento Storico del Palazzo Reale - a complex of fine halls with period furniture, tapestries, paintings, and porcelain, accessed by a grand staircase. There are good views of Castel Nuovo from the upper floors, and the chapel on the far side of the central courtyard has one of the city's biggest presepi (Christmas crib) filled with 210 18th-century figures. Behind the palace, you'll find the tranquil Giardino Reale gardens and a group of 19th-century sculptures called Horse Trainers by Czar Nicholas I's favorite sculptor. It's also the location of the National Library, founded in 1734 and the most important library in southern Italy
Castel dell'Ovo
Enjoy amazing views as you stand on the ramparts of this imposing fortress jutting out into the sea.
Standing on the ancient island of Megaris which is joined to the shore by a pier, this medieval fortress was built in the 1200's AD on the remains of an earlier Roman villa. Known as the "egg-castle", it takes its name from the legend that it was built over an egg placed here by the Roman poet Virgil: it is believed that if the egg breaks, Naples will fall. According to another old legend, the lifeless body of the mermaid Parthenope was washed ashore here after she gave herself up to death upon failing to win the heart of Ulysses. Hence the name of the waterfront street facing the castle - Via Partenhope. Other than the Museum of Ethnoprehistory housed within the castle, there's not too much to see in the interiors, but that's okay because the views are the best in town: a 360-degree panorama over the entire bay and back over Naples itself. When you're finished, you can go for drinks at one of the quayside restaurants in the Borgo Marinaro below.
Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Naples Old Town
Slightly dilapidated and chaotic, but always energetic and effervescent, Naples's historic center has plenty of historic buildings and narrow alleys to keep you busy for several hours. Neapolitans often keep their front door open directly onto the street, exposing everyday life and family routines to passersby, making the experience all the more memorable and authentic. Starting out from the Piazza del Gesù, with its fanciful Baroque plague column, you can cut right through the heart of old Naples on the crowded, chaotic Spaccanapoli. This straight, narrow main street was first built as the main thoroughfare of the original Roman town. Spaccanapoli is actually not an official street name but a popular term that literally means the "Naples splitter". It's full of life and noisy motorpeds at most times of the day, with some of the best street food on offer in Naples. It gets very crowded at certain spots in the evenings when the student population descends upon its favorite outdoor cafes and bars. But of course you'll want to wander into the warren of narrow lanes on either side of the Spaccanapoli, where you'll discover amazing churches, tiny little squares, and an abundance of restaurants, pubs, and cafes.
Sansevero Chapel Museum
See for yourself why the Veiled Christ is the most famous and celebrated sculpture in Naples.
Located inside the Sansevero Chapel is what is considered one of the greatest sculptural masterpieces - the Veiled Christ. The effect of the fabric shroud on the supine Christ delicately covering and yet revealing every detail of the body (even down to the impressions of the stigmata) has made this also one of the most famous and moving sculptures in the world. The rest of the chapel's interior is also striking. The chapel's patron, Raimondo di Sangro, was a mason and it is filled with masonic symbolism. The slightly erotic statue of Veiled Modesty was sculpted in memory of Raimondo's mother, who died at the age of 23, and is remarkable for the subtlety with which the veil clings to her body. Also of note are the two human cadavers in the chapel's crypt, which perfectly illustrate the complete vascular, renal and digestive systems of the human body.
Napoli Sotterranea
Discover ancient Greek and Roman ruins in the labyrinth of underground tunnels located 130 feet (40m) below street level.
Head underground to see a fascinating side of Naples where hidden mysteries and interesting historic stories appear around every corner. Located at the original site of the ancient Forum, you can see the remnants of a Roman theater as well as the aqueducts and cisterns which once supplied the city with drinking water. The passages were originally hewn to extract tufa stone used in construction and to channel water from Mt Vesuvius. More recently, the network of conduits and cisterns was used as an air-raid shelter during WWII. Part of the tour takes place by candlelight via extremely narrow passages, so it's not suitable for those who are claustrophobic or have trouble squeezing through tight spaces.
Via San Gregorio Armeno
Walk down this picturesque street to shop where the Neapolitans do when they create their beloved Christmas nativity scenes.
Still central to the city's traditional core is the centuries-old tradition of the nativity scene, or as they are locally known, "presepe" (i.e. cribs). Crowds throng the narrow Via San Gregorio Armeno to stock up on tiny figurines and settings for their own home nativity scenes. The street is lined with souvenir shops selling less expensive figurines as well as the shops of highly-specialized craftsmen making true works of art.
Duomo
Admire this lavish 13th-century Gothic cathedral which contains miraculous vials of blood of the patron saint of the city, San Gennaro.
The Duomo is a Gothic building from the early 13th century, although its 19th-century facade is actually Gothic Revival. The jaw-droppingly ornate Royal Chapel of the Treasure of St. Januarius is a Baroque addition to church. The church is dedicated to the patron saint of the city, San Gennaro, and precious vials of the saint's blood have been preserved in the chapel. San Gennaro was martyred at Pozzuoli, just outside Naples in 304 AD under the purges of Emperor Diocletian. Tradition has it that when his body was transferred to Naples' Duomo, two vials of his dried blood liquefied in the bishop's hands, since which time the miracle has continued to repeat itself no fewer than three times a year. Pope Francis was present for the miracle in March 2015, though the blood only half liquified, prompting the pontiff to quip that "the saint only half loves us". He then extorted the congregants to "spread the word, so that he loves us more!".
Day 2
Naples
Day 2
Naples
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Discover Naples On Foot Guided Walking Tour
Discover both the ancient and modern history of Naples as well as the real town: its people, the students, the food (the best pizzerias and pastry shops in Italy), and the craftsmanship on this three-hour private guided walking tour. Your personal guide will pick you up directly from your hotel.
Mid-Day to Evening
Excursion to the Ancient City of Pompeii
Possibly the most fascinating and accessible archaeological site in the world, Pompeii has been slowly revealing its secrets to the world since excavations began in earnest back in the late 18th century. Even today archaeologists are still uncovering unexplored parts of the site and building up a more accurate picture of how Pompeians lived prior to the catastrophic explosion of nearby Mt Vesuvius in 79 AD. While the ruins are fairly easy to reach via the local train network, taking a guided tour from Naples can be a more comfortable experience. Since the site is so incredibly large, it is also helpful to see it with a good guide who will organize your time there, as well as tell you the history and stories behind what you see. On the other hand, traveling independently and using the very cost-effective Artecard for entrance allows you to see the ruins at your own pace.
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Day 2 Naples
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Naples City Guided Walking Tour
Discover both the ancient and modern history of Naples as well as the real town: its people, the students, the food (the best pizzerias and pastry shops in Italy), and the craftsmanship on this three-hour private guided walking tour. Your personal guide will pick you up directly from your hotel.
Mid-Day to Evening: Ruins of Pompeii
Possibly the most fascinating and accessible archaeological site in the world, Pompeii has been slowly revealing its secrets to the world since excavations began in earnest back in the late 18th century. Even today archaeologists are still uncovering unexplored parts of the site and building up a more accurate picture of how Pompeians lived prior to the catastrophic explosion of nearby Mt Vesuvius in 79 AD. While the ruins are fairly easy to reach via the local train network, taking a guided tour from Naples can be a more comfortable experience. Since the site is so incredibly large, it is also helpful to see it with a good guide who will organize your time there, as well as tell you the history and stories behind what you see. On the other hand, traveling independently and using the very cost-effective Artecard for entrance allows you to see the ruins at your own pace.
Brothel
Visit the Lupanare (brothel) of Pompeii to see the preserved erotic paintings and ancient grafiti.
The only brothel in town is located behind the Stabian Baths and has five small cells, each with its own built-in stone bed and a series of explicitly erotic paintings, possibly acting as a menu from which customers could identify their required services, or perhaps simply as a bit of "inspirational" decoration. Unsurprisingly, it is one of the most visited ruins in Pompeii.
House of the Tragic Poet
Visit this fascinating restored Pompeiian home with a famous animal mosaic.
On the threshold is a mosaic dog, with the inscription cave canem ('beware of the dog'). Some of the most striking wall paintings housed in the National Archaeological Museum in the center of Naples were taken from this house.
House of the Vettii
Visit this incredibly well-preserved upper class residence.
The House of the Vetti is one of the richest and most famous sights in Pompeii. It was the property of two wealthy merchants, and it features some beautiful original wall paintings, still in their original positions, the most famous (or notorious) of which is the extraordinary front image of the god Priapus weighing his enormous phallus against a money bag.
Amphitheater
See the oldest surviving Roman amphitheatre - built in 70 BC!
The amphitheatre was used as a venue for bloody gladiatorial shows with a capacity to hold over 20,000 spectators. It is one of the oldest and most complete pre-Colosseum amphitheatres in the Roman world and was miraculously well preserved following the eruption in 79 AD.
Day 3
Naples
Day 3
Naples
Morning/Mid-Day
National Archaeological Museum
The greatest Italian archaeological museum outside Rome, the Neopolitan National Archaeological Museum is a mandatory stop for anyone planning to visit Pompeii and Herculaneum, boasting as it does the greatest treasures from those two fateful townships. It also contains some of the most jaw-dropping sculptures from antiquity, including the fabulous Farnese Bull and the muscle-bound Ercole (Hercules) that once graced the Baths of Caracalla in Rome.
Mid-Day to Late Afternoon
Exploring the Vomero District
Spend time exploring Naples' more laid back district of Vomero, which is spread out on a hill above the city. You can ride to the top using Naples' excellent funicular rail services, the cost of which is covered by the highly recommended Arte Card. Once up to the top, you'll find yourself in the heart of the hill district, Piazza Vanvitelli, surrounded by four Neo-Renaissance palaces. It's a popular area for young people, who flock to its many bars, renowned ice-cream parlors, and pedestrianized cross streets. A stone's throw from both Piazza Vanvitelli you'll discover the Villa Floridiana, a beautifully sited public garden on a spur overlooking the sea, which is famous for its camellias. A five minute walk from the funicular will bring you to the Castel Sant'Elmo, where you can take in the views from the ramparts. Once done at the castle, you can visit one of the most beautiful cloisters in Italy next door at the Certosa San Martino monastery and see its superb repository of Neapolitan and Italian art.
4:15 PM - 6:15 PM
Guided Walking Tour of Herculaneum
Herculaneum is often thought of as the poorer cousin to Pompeii, yet this ancient town is just as fascinating as its neighbor, the only difference being its relative size and the means by which it was preserved in such an extraordinary state. The great advantage of Herculaneum is that you can see much of it on a short visit and there are extant examples of Roman wooden furniture. On this two-hour private guided walking tour, you will discover its archeological ruins, learn about its extraordinary history, and see its most famous sites.
Evening/Late Evening
Dining Out in the Spanish Quarter
You can experience the best pizza and famous Neopolitan pasta and seafood dishes in the Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarter), a bustling, colorful, crumbling, energetic, gritty, and crowded neighborhood that is the most densely populated part of the city. The tight grid of streets looks like graph paper on the map; reflecting the street network laid out in the 1600s when the Spanish ruled the Kingdom of Naples. It is, in short, the stereotype of Naples that is seen in movies. It was once a bedrock of support for the Camorra, the Neapolitan crime organization, but those days are long gone. Apart from being the self-styled home of pizza, Naples and Spanish Quarter restaurants in particular also specialize in spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with tiny local clams called vongole verace) and mountainous platters of frutti di mare ("fruits of the sea," a combination of crustaceans, shellfish, bivalves, calamari, and octopus - more or less any seafood that's not actually a fish). You can also find more great restaurants nearby in the adjacent Ferdinando quarter close to the seafront. If you still have room at the end of a meal, or simply want to try something sweet while on the go, try a sfogliatella. Small delicacies in the shape of shells, sfogliatellas are created by rolling a delicious filling of ricotta and almond paste into a rich number of dough layers. When baked, the layers become crisp and separate from each other, giving the sfogliatella its characteristic ridged look. Icing sugar sprinkled on top completes these heavenly bites.
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Day 3 Naples
Morning/Mid-Day: National Archaeological Museum
The greatest Italian archaeological museum outside Rome, the Neopolitan National Archaeological Museum is a mandatory stop for anyone planning to visit Pompeii and Herculaneum, boasting as it does the greatest treasures from those two fateful townships. It also contains some of the most jaw-dropping sculptures from antiquity, including the fabulous Farnese Bull and the muscle-bound Ercole (Hercules) that once graced the Baths of Caracalla in Rome.
Mid-Day to Late Afternoon: Vomero District
Spend time exploring Naples' more laid back district of Vomero, which is spread out on a hill above the city. You can ride to the top using Naples' excellent funicular rail services, the cost of which is covered by the highly recommended Arte Card. Once up to the top, you'll find yourself in the heart of the hill district, Piazza Vanvitelli, surrounded by four Neo-Renaissance palaces. It's a popular area for young people, who flock to its many bars, renowned ice-cream parlors, and pedestrianized cross streets. A stone's throw from both Piazza Vanvitelli you'll discover the Villa Floridiana, a beautifully sited public garden on a spur overlooking the sea, which is famous for its camellias. A five minute walk from the funicular will bring you to the Castel Sant'Elmo, where you can take in the views from the ramparts. Once done at the castle, you can visit one of the most beautiful cloisters in Italy next door at the Certosa San Martino monastery and see its superb repository of Neapolitan and Italian art.
Castel Sant'Elmo
Walk around this imposing, star-shaped fortification that dates back to the 14th Century.
This impressive fortification, a 14th-century structure once used for incarcerating political prisoners, today lords it over the streets below as a mostly administrative center for historical heritage in the city. Head straight for the top of the castle to admire the outstanding views from its upper battlements and walk the perimeter of its fortress walls.
Certosa San Martino Monastery
Check out this former monastery, which boasts a beautiful cloister and a museum of art.
This 14th-century edifice has the next best views over the bay and is home to the Museo Nazionale di San Martino - a depository of the best of 17th Neapolitan painting. The charm of this location is heightened by the Grand Cloister and the ingeniously constructed terraced gardens, which are well worth the entrance fee alone.
4:15 PM - 6:15 PM: Walking Tour of Herculaneum
Herculaneum is often thought of as the poorer cousin to Pompeii, yet this ancient town is just as fascinating as its neighbor, the only difference being its relative size and the means by which it was preserved in such an extraordinary state. The great advantage of Herculaneum is that you can see much of it on a short visit and there are extant examples of Roman wooden furniture. On this two-hour private guided walking tour, you will discover its archeological ruins, learn about its extraordinary history, and see its most famous sites.
Herculaneum Archaeological Site
Archaeological Museum
The archaeological excavations of Herculaneum have revealed the remains of the ancient city of Herculaneum, buried under a blanket of ashes and mud during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79, together with Pompei, Stabia, and Oplonti.
Evening/Late Evening: Dining Out, Spanish Quarter
You can experience the best pizza and famous Neopolitan pasta and seafood dishes in the Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarter), a bustling, colorful, crumbling, energetic, gritty, and crowded neighborhood that is the most densely populated part of the city. The tight grid of streets looks like graph paper on the map; reflecting the street network laid out in the 1600s when the Spanish ruled the Kingdom of Naples. It is, in short, the stereotype of Naples that is seen in movies. It was once a bedrock of support for the Camorra, the Neapolitan crime organization, but those days are long gone. Apart from being the self-styled home of pizza, Naples and Spanish Quarter restaurants in particular also specialize in spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with tiny local clams called vongole verace) and mountainous platters of frutti di mare ("fruits of the sea," a combination of crustaceans, shellfish, bivalves, calamari, and octopus - more or less any seafood that's not actually a fish). You can also find more great restaurants nearby in the adjacent Ferdinando quarter close to the seafront. If you still have room at the end of a meal, or simply want to try something sweet while on the go, try a sfogliatella. Small delicacies in the shape of shells, sfogliatellas are created by rolling a delicious filling of ricotta and almond paste into a rich number of dough layers. When baked, the layers become crisp and separate from each other, giving the sfogliatella its characteristic ridged look. Icing sugar sprinkled on top completes these heavenly bites.
Da Michele Pizza
Taste the most famous pizza in Naples at the pizzeria featured in Eat, Pray, Love.
This pizzeria has been making pizza since 1870, and many claim that it is the best pizza in Naples. They serve only two kinds of pizza - Margherita and Marinara (without Mozzarella but with lots of garlic and oregano). Be prepared to wait for a spot, at any time of the day. Be prepared to wait and to share a table - no reservations are accepted.
Day 4
Naples
Day 4
Naples
Early Morning to Mid-Day
Excursion to the Island of Ischia
The largest island in the Bay of Naples, Ischia is more interesting geographically than Capri, which makes it great for gentle hikes, especially to its summit of Mt Epomeo, and its volcanic soils make for the cultivation of fine wines. It also has some lovely sun-bathing spots and an exquisitely picturesque coastal fortress.
Evening
Dining Out in the Historic Quarter
Naples is rightly famous for its street food, the people's version, that of the “mangiamaccheroni” (pasta eaters), with its corner shop windows. But then there are also the more up-market recipes of the monzù (derived from the French word monsieur), the professional chefs who used to work for the lower nobility aristocracy in the more bourgeois parts of the city. You get can get to know both worlds using our detailed map and list of dining recommendations in the city's historic quarter.
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Day 4 Naples
Early Morning to Mid-Day: Ischia Island
The largest island in the Bay of Naples, Ischia is more interesting geographically than Capri, which makes it great for gentle hikes, especially to its summit of Mt Epomeo, and its volcanic soils make for the cultivation of fine wines. It also has some lovely sun-bathing spots and an exquisitely picturesque coastal fortress.
Castello Aragonese
Walk across a causeway to reach this picturesque medieval castle located on a small
Accessed via the 15th century Ponte Aragonese, a 750 feet (228m) long causeway, the rocky islet fortress of Alfonso the Magnanimous is Ischia's top sight. As you explore you will understand why it made such a stunning backdrop in the film The Talented Mr Ripley. The citadel itself is showing signs of wear and tear and some of it is closed to the public, but below is a complex of buildings that could be almost a separate village, and you can wander around these by way of olive-shaded paths and lush terraces. There's an eerie open shell of a cathedral destroyed by British bombardment in 1806 and a prison that once held political prisoners during the Unification struggle. Otherwise, there are a couple nice cafe-restaurants from where you can enjoy the sea views.There's also the remains of a convent, in which a couple of dark rooms are ringed with a set of seats that look like stone toilets. These actually served as a cemetery for the deceased sisters - the bodies were placed on these seats to decompose, and the nuns would gather to pray here. While today this all seems rather macabre, the sisters considered it a reminder of their own ephemeral existence on earth.
Mt Epomeo
Hike to the top of Mount Epomeo for breathtaking views over the island.
Take a short but steep hike up to Ischia's highest point on Mount Epomeo to enjoy superb views of the entire island of Ischia and its many vineyards. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento and the island of Capri in the distance. You need to be reasonably fit and wear good shoes, as the final part of the track becomes no more than a channel cut out of the soft rock. There's a rather good terrace cafe/restaurant at the top where you can take a refreshment break.
Evening: Dining Out in the Historic Quarter
Naples is rightly famous for its street food, the people's version, that of the “mangiamaccheroni” (pasta eaters), with its corner shop windows. But then there are also the more up-market recipes of the monzù (derived from the French word monsieur), the professional chefs who used to work for the lower nobility aristocracy in the more bourgeois parts of the city. You get can get to know both worlds using our detailed map and list of dining recommendations in the city's historic quarter.
Da Michele Pizza
Taste the most famous pizza in Naples at the pizzeria featured in Eat, Pray, Love.
This pizzeria has been making pizza since 1870, and many claim that it is the best pizza in Naples. They serve only two kinds of pizza - Margherita and Marinara (without Mozzarella but with lots of garlic and oregano). Be prepared to wait for a spot, at any time of the day. Be prepared to wait and to share a table - no reservations are accepted.
Sea Front Pasta Bar
One of the best pasta places in Naples.
$$$$. Watch your chef prepare your meal in front of you. If you've had your fill of pizza and seafood and want to get back to the Italian staple, then this is one of the best places in Naples. Prices are a bit higher than elsewhere here. [Piazza Municipio 1, Tel. 39 081 1849 6287, www.facebook.com/dimartinoseafront].
Day 5 Train: 1h
Naples to Sorrento
Day 5 Train: 1h
Naples to Sorrento
Morning/Mid-Day
Take a Trip up to the Capodimonte
Walk or catch a bus up the Capodimonte Hill to visit the fascinating early Christian catacombs beneath the churches of San Gennaro or Santa Maria della Sanità. Alternatively, continue further up the hill to visit the former residence of Bourbon King Charles III, Palazzo Reale di Capodimonte, to see one of the country's best art collections with works by Michelangelo, Titian, and Caravaggio.
12:45 PM
Transfer to Station by Taxi or Public Transport
Most trains depart from Naples Central Station (Napoli Centrale) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance, keeping in mind though that the pedestrian environment around the station is not the best. Also, consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option - there is a metro station co-located with the rail station. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags.
13:43 - 14:33
Taking the Circumvesuviana or Campania Express Train to Sorrento
2:33 PM
Arrival and Transfer by Taxi or Walking
All trains arrive in Sorrento's only train station located in the New Town. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel or apartment is within easy walking distance. If staying in the town of Sorrento itself, your place of stay should not be more than a 15-minute walk. Taxis can be found outside the station. Some private transfers can even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber is not yet available in Sorrento.
Late Afternoon/Early Evening
Take a Walk or Swim in the Marina Piccola
At the edge of Sorrento you'll find a cliff overlooking the sea, and below the cliff you'll find the port of Marina Piccola situated in a small cove. It is home to a number of restaurants and lido swimming spots, and is also the port from which ferries to Capri depart. Adjacent to the port are the swimming and sunbathing platforms (the lidos), which are used by both locals and tourists throughout the summer months. Since the nearest strip of sandy beach is very small, the lidos were built to stretch into the sea on stilts to accommodate a larger number of swimmers. Exposure to the north and the cool water below effectively alleviate the summer heat. The lidos are great for lounging in the sunshine (although shady until the afternoon) and often have cafes within easy reach on the promenade. A lot of coastal hotels will have their own private platforms with a safe section of the sea to enjoy swimming in. The entrance fee varies from a minimum of 10,00 € to a maximum of 15,00 € per person for a sunbed and entrance. There are three ways to reach the Marina Piccola. First, you can take the elevator down from the Park Comunale. From the same park, there is also a zig-zag path all the way down. The third way is via the Porta Marina which opens next to the Basilica of Sant’Antonino.
Early Evening/Evening
Sorrento Old Town
The center of Sorrento is quite compact and closed to traffic. Its grid-like layout makes the old town of Sorrento easy to navigate on foot and a joy to explore. Spend time pottering around its pedestrian lanes and streets, home to a number of interesting sights, little tourist boutiques, limoncello tastings and restaurants.
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Day 5 Train: 1hNaples to Sorrento
Morning/Mid-Day: Capodimonte
Walk or catch a bus up the Capodimonte Hill to visit the fascinating early Christian catacombs beneath the churches of San Gennaro or Santa Maria della Sanità. Alternatively, continue further up the hill to visit the former residence of Bourbon King Charles III, Palazzo Reale di Capodimonte, to see one of the country's best art collections with works by Michelangelo, Titian, and Caravaggio.
Museo Nazionale di Capodimonte
Spend some quality time with Caravaggio and Titian in one of Italy's largest and best art collections.
The Palazzo Reale di Capodimonte was the royal residence of the Bourbon King Charles III. Purpose-built in 1738 by Charles specifically to house the family art collection, it now operates as one of the best public art galleries in the country, the Museo Nazionale di Capodimonte. A large part of the first floor is dedicated to the fabulous Farnese Collections. Among the great paintings to look out for here are Sandro Bollicelli's Madonna and Child with Two Angels, and the Venetian painter Giovanni Bellini's masterpiece Transfiguration. Another great Venetian painter, Titian, is represented here by his depiction of Danaë. The second floor focuses on the development of painting in Naples 1200-1700, and while there are a number of masterpieces here, the two standouts are Flagellation by Caravaggio, and Judith and Holofernes by Artemisia Gentileschi. The first is a dark and disturbing painting that comes from the church of San Domenico Maggiore, where you can still see a 17th-century copy. Caravaggio was known to work in a darkened studio using point-source lighting to increase the contrast, hence the dramatic effect of his images.
Catacombs of San Gennaro
Take a guided tour and descend into the catacombs to see an ancient Christian burial place.
The catacombs date from the second century AD and seem to have developed around the family tomb of an early member of the Christian community. It probably became the official cemetery of Christian Naples after the burial here, in the 3rd century, of the bishop-saint Agrippinus, over whose tomb a basilica was built. The catacombs became a place of pilgrimage after the 5th-century martyr and patron saint of the city, San Gennaro, was entombed here. Some of the early Christian frescoes and mosaics have been newly restored, and much of the complex has been superbly lit, which provides visitors not only with an ideal view of the rows of tombs, but also a wonderful ambiance. Temperatures range between 17-22 degrees Celsius throughout the year, so take warm clothing if you think you might be shivering throughout the 45min tours.
Capodimonte Park
Take a relaxing stroll in the oldest and most beautiful public park in the city.
With exquisite views of the city and Bay of Naples, this enormous landscaped park is a great opportunity to exchange the urban chaos of Naples for some greenery. The park covers nearly 100 acres and over the last nearly 300 years it has been filled with over 400 different plant species.
12:45 PM: Transfer to Rail Station
Most trains depart from Naples Central Station (Napoli Centrale) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance, keeping in mind though that the pedestrian environment around the station is not the best. Also, consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option - there is a metro station co-located with the rail station. If staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags.
13:43 - 14:33: Train to Sorrento
2:33 PM: Transfer from Rail Station
All trains arrive in Sorrento's only train station located in the New Town. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel or apartment is within easy walking distance. If staying in the town of Sorrento itself, your place of stay should not be more than a 15-minute walk. Taxis can be found outside the station. Some private transfers can even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber is not yet available in Sorrento.
Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Marina Piccola
At the edge of Sorrento you'll find a cliff overlooking the sea, and below the cliff you'll find the port of Marina Piccola situated in a small cove. It is home to a number of restaurants and lido swimming spots, and is also the port from which ferries to Capri depart. Adjacent to the port are the swimming and sunbathing platforms (the lidos), which are used by both locals and tourists throughout the summer months. Since the nearest strip of sandy beach is very small, the lidos were built to stretch into the sea on stilts to accommodate a larger number of swimmers. Exposure to the north and the cool water below effectively alleviate the summer heat. The lidos are great for lounging in the sunshine (although shady until the afternoon) and often have cafes within easy reach on the promenade. A lot of coastal hotels will have their own private platforms with a safe section of the sea to enjoy swimming in. The entrance fee varies from a minimum of 10,00 € to a maximum of 15,00 € per person for a sunbed and entrance. There are three ways to reach the Marina Piccola. First, you can take the elevator down from the Park Comunale. From the same park, there is also a zig-zag path all the way down. The third way is via the Porta Marina which opens next to the Basilica of Sant’Antonino.
Early Evening/Evening: Sorrento Old Town
The center of Sorrento is quite compact and closed to traffic. Its grid-like layout makes the old town of Sorrento easy to navigate on foot and a joy to explore. Spend time pottering around its pedestrian lanes and streets, home to a number of interesting sights, little tourist boutiques, limoncello tastings and restaurants.
Piazza Tasso
Check out Sorrento's main square surrounded by colorful architecture and five-star hotels.
Piazza Tasso is the central square in Sorrento, and is named after the poet Torquato Tasso whose statue stands in the center of the square. The piazza is often used as a main point of reference, as it is situated in the heart of the town where the old and new towns meet.
Sorrento Cathedral
Step inside this beautiful Roman Catholic Cathedral known for its exquisite ceiling paintings.
The Sorrento Cathedral (Duomo) is located in Sorrento's Old Town, and is dedicated to Saints Philip and James. With its beautiful yet relatively simple white Romanesque facade, it is easily spotted just off of the Corso Italia, one of the main east-west streets through town. It dates as far back as the 11th century but the interior was completely remodeled in the 15th century. It is well worth a visit to see its lovely interior. Be sure to check out the floral ceiling motifs which frame paintings of martyrs of Sorrento, as well as saints and angels lounging amidst the clouds. The choir, meanwhile, is a masterpiece of Sorrentine wood working.
Sorrento's Men's Club
See the beautifully painted walls and dome of the historic Men's Club in Sorrento, that is, if you are a man yourself.
One of Sorrento's "main" sights is the Sorrento Men's Club. Once the meeting place for Sorrento's noblemen, it is now a daily "retreat" spot where the town's retired gentlemen while away sultry afternoons under the 16th-century frescoed dome, playing cards, board games or reading the newspaper. Sorry, absolutely no women or mobile phones are allowed in the club.
San Francesco Church
Take a peaceful walk around the 14th Century Church and Cloister of San Francesco.
Although the exterior is fairly modest, the church of St. Francis has a rich history. A convent and a cloister, both also dedicated to St. Francis, stand by the church. The cloister mixes many architectural styles, from the Roman era to the Middle Ages, although it remains mostly unchanged since the 14th century. It is surrounded by a park which enjoys wonderful views of the sea. The overall effect creates a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere which makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing walk, as well as a popular wedding venue.
Day 6
Sorrento
Day 6
Sorrento
Morning to Late Afternoon
Excursion to the Fabled Isle of Capri
There is no question that Capri is one of the most impressive spots in Italy. Surrounded by crystal clear waters, shimmering grottos and dramatic cliff-faces, it’s what dreams are made of. Made famous as the vacation hideaway of Roman emperors Augustus and Tiberius, the beautiful island of Capri is a fantastic day trip option from Sorrento by ferry. Spend your day exploring its two towns, Capri & Anacapri, take a boat trip to Capri's famous Blue Grotto or take a thrilling ride on the chairlift to Monte Solaro for beautiful views over Capri and the Bay of Naples.
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Day 6 Sorrento
Morning to Late Afternoon: Capri Island
There is no question that Capri is one of the most impressive spots in Italy. Surrounded by crystal clear waters, shimmering grottos and dramatic cliff-faces, it’s what dreams are made of. Made famous as the vacation hideaway of Roman emperors Augustus and Tiberius, the beautiful island of Capri is a fantastic day trip option from Sorrento by ferry. Spend your day exploring its two towns, Capri & Anacapri, take a boat trip to Capri's famous Blue Grotto or take a thrilling ride on the chairlift to Monte Solaro for beautiful views over Capri and the Bay of Naples.
Blue Grotto
Take a boat trip around the island to reach this mystical Blue grotto cave.
Named the Grotto Azzurra in Italian (Blue Grotto), this famous sea cave is a popular trip from Capri by boat. Sunlight passing through the small entrance creates a bright blue water grotto which is only accessible by a small rowing boat. Lie down flat in the boat, pass through the entrance and awe at the aqua colours of this natural wonder.
Mount Solaro Chairlift
Take the chairlift up to Mount Solaro for amazing views over Capri and the Bay of Naples.
Ride to the summit of Capri's mountain on a thrilling chairlift journey. The scenic ride up takes approximately 12 minutes, and from the top you'll enjoy views over Capri and over the Bay of Naples with Mount Vesuvius in the distance.
Villa San Michele
Visit the beautiful residence of the Swedish physician and writer Alex Munthe, one of the top sights on the island.
This beautiful 20th-century mansion is one of the top sights on the island. Sitting almost 1000 feet above the sea, visitors come to the villa to walk through its beautiful gardens and enjoy the panoramic views of the town of Capri. Inside the villa, you'll find a small museum home to a collection of archaeological artefacts found on the island.
Anacapri
Take a taxi or bus up to this pretty little village awash with boutique shops and high priced restaurants.
High up the plateau above Capri town lies Anacapri, a smaller village (compared to Capri Town) which is much quieter and more authentic in feel. Stroll its white-washed lanes of artisan boutiques, take the chairlift to the top of Monte Solaro or walk to the nearby Villa San Michele.
Day 7
Sorrento
Day 7
Sorrento
Morning to Early Evening
Exploring the Amalfi Coast
The wildly scenic Amalfi Coast that runs from Sorrento to Salerno is infamous for its coastal road which is known as one of the best white-knuckle scenic rides in Europe. Given the hairy driving, impossible parking and traffic, and overcrowded public buses, the Amalfi Coast is best explored by private boat or public ferry, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the coastline and hop from town to town in comfort and without any delays. Unfortunately, the boats do not run all year, so depending on when you travel, your best bet for exploring the area may be with a guided tour by vehicle. The guide's local knowledge can help you avoid some of the traffic and cover the most beautiful spots. Of course a private tour at your own pace, by boat or car, is the ideal option.
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Day 7 Sorrento
Morning to Early Evening: Amalfi Coast
The wildly scenic Amalfi Coast that runs from Sorrento to Salerno is infamous for its coastal road which is known as one of the best white-knuckle scenic rides in Europe. Given the hairy driving, impossible parking and traffic, and overcrowded public buses, the Amalfi Coast is best explored by private boat or public ferry, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the coastline and hop from town to town in comfort and without any delays. Unfortunately, the boats do not run all year, so depending on when you travel, your best bet for exploring the area may be with a guided tour by vehicle. The guide's local knowledge can help you avoid some of the traffic and cover the most beautiful spots. Of course a private tour at your own pace, by boat or car, is the ideal option.
Amalfi Cathedral
Visit one of the most important Cathedrals on the Amalfi Coast.
The Amalfi Cathedral called “Duomo di Sant’Andrea Apostolo” can be found on the main Piazza Duomo in Amalfi Town. Built during the ninth century with a Byzantine architecture style, the cathedral is considered a must-visit for anyone who comes to Amalfi. Today the Duomo is a mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque style, with an imposing staircase that leads to a 1,000-year-old bronze door that was given to the town by a wealthy local merchant who had the door made in Constantinople - modern-day Istanbul. Follow a one-way route around its interior which includes relics of Saint Andrew, the Apostle (the patron saint of Amalfi), the crypt and the cloister.
Positano
Visit the most beautiful and most popular town on the Amalfi Coast.
Known for its colorful buildings, beautiful panoramas, excellent seafood restaurants and luxury boutique shops, Positano is the go-to town for most people visiting the Amalfi Coast. Wander its narrow streets, spend time on its beach front or walk to the top of town to enjoy the famous views over the town and sea below.
Amalfi Town
Visit the largest town on the Amalfi Coast known for its culture, history and beaches.
What was once an important trading centre is now a stunning seaside town and the second most visited after Positano. Spend time relaxing on the beach and dip your toes in the azure water, visit its historic Cathedral, enjoy a cold lemon spritz in one of its seafront restaurants or simply enjoy strolling around its lanes and take in its views.
Day 8
Sorrento
Day 8
Sorrento
7:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Guided Hike of the Gods
Enjoy a 9-hour alpine guided climb up the ancient path that used to connect Nocelle (Positano) to Bomerano (Agerola) also known as the "Path of the Gods". Named after the beauties that characterize its views, this trail is considered one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world.
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Day 8 Sorrento
7:30 AM - 4:30 PM: Hike of the Gods, Guided
Enjoy a 9-hour alpine guided climb up the ancient path that used to connect Nocelle (Positano) to Bomerano (Agerola) also known as the "Path of the Gods". Named after the beauties that characterize its views, this trail is considered one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world.
Day 9
Sorrento
Day 9
Sorrento
Early Morning to Mid-Day
Trip to Mount Vesuvius
Mount Vesuvius, the volcano renowned for the disaster that caused the destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum, is a popular day trip from Naples and Sorrento. Rising up over the Bay of Naples, a visit to the active volcano offers an opportunity to get up close with its crater and witness the beautiful views over Naples and the surrounding area. The volcano and it's immediate surroundings are now a national park. You can take the train to the base, and then from the station catch a shuttle to the park entrance. If you prefer, you can also take a more comfortable tour directly to the park. Reasonably fit visitors should reach the summit within about 20 minutes (30-45 if you stop for photos). The trail is approximately half a mile in length and there are numerous points with benches where you can rest and enjoy the breathtaking view over Monte Somma and the Bay of Naples.
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Guided Tour of Herculaneum
Explore Herculaneum on a 2-hour guided tour with entrance tickets included. Smaller and more compact than Pompeii, the site is especially notable for its remarkably preserved houses, wooden features, and everyday details buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
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Day 9 Sorrento
Early Morning to Mid-Day: Mount Vesuvius
Mount Vesuvius, the volcano renowned for the disaster that caused the destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum, is a popular day trip from Naples and Sorrento. Rising up over the Bay of Naples, a visit to the active volcano offers an opportunity to get up close with its crater and witness the beautiful views over Naples and the surrounding area. The volcano and it's immediate surroundings are now a national park. You can take the train to the base, and then from the station catch a shuttle to the park entrance. If you prefer, you can also take a more comfortable tour directly to the park. Reasonably fit visitors should reach the summit within about 20 minutes (30-45 if you stop for photos). The trail is approximately half a mile in length and there are numerous points with benches where you can rest and enjoy the breathtaking view over Monte Somma and the Bay of Naples.
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Guided Tour of Herculaneum
Explore Herculaneum on a 2-hour guided tour with entrance tickets included. Smaller and more compact than Pompeii, the site is especially notable for its remarkably preserved houses, wooden features, and everyday details buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
Herculaneum Archaeological Site
Archaeological Museum
The archaeological excavations of Herculaneum have revealed the remains of the ancient city of Herculaneum, buried under a blanket of ashes and mud during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79, together with Pompei, Stabia, and Oplonti.
Day 10
Depart Sorrento
Day 10
Depart Sorrento
To Be Determined
Private Transfer from Sorrento to Naples Airport
A private transfer service will pick you up from the N/A and take you directly to Naples Capodichino Airport. This is a private transfer for you and your travel party. You do not need to pay the driver as the cost of the transfer is included in your itinerary. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.
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Day 10 Depart Sorrento
To Be Determined: Private Transfer to Naples Airport
A private transfer service will pick you up from the N/A and take you directly to Naples Capodichino Airport. This is a private transfer for you and your travel party. You do not need to pay the driver as the cost of the transfer is included in your itinerary. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.

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What's Included in Amalfi Coast in Ten Days Trip

Pre-Paid Tours and Activities

Discover Naples On Foot Guided Walking Tour
Guided Walking Tour of Herculaneum
Guided Hike of the Gods
Guided Tour of Herculaneum

Pre-Paid Transportation

2nd Class Train Tickets from Naples-Sorrento
Public Transport Tickets for Naples
Private Transfer from Sorrento to Naples Airport

Accommodation

4 nights at a hotel of your choice in Naples
5 nights at a hotel of your choice in Sorrento

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Italy

Naples

Gritty and chaotic Naples calls to travelers who want to experience the real Italy. Pressed along the coast of Campania, hilly Naples is jammed with maze-like streets, strung with outdoor clotheslines, descending toward the sea below. A much deserved UNESCO World Heritage site, Naples is famous for its churches, museums, castles, and catacombs. As you navigate the city, you’ll find yourself immersed by its culture and history. You can easily occupy a full day gazing at churches like the Naples Cathedral, San Francesco di Paola, and Cappella Sansevero. If you cast your eyes toward the Gulf of Naples, you’ll see Mount Vesuvius looming over the harbor. This foreboding volcano erupted in AD 79. Not far from the inner city — less than an hour by train — you’ll find the ancient town of Pompeii, its dramatic ruins still preserved in ash from the eruption. One of the best things you can do in Naples is to eat. This is the city where pizza was born. Propped up by its ripe tomatoes, local cheeses, and fresh fish, food from Naples has come to define what many see as the height of Italian cuisine. Everything you taste in Naples seems like a delicacy. Authentic and vivid, Naples is a true Italian city where the ancient world meets the modern-day with a bang.

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What an incredible experience! Our trip to Italy exceeded every expectation, and we are so grateful to Go Real Travel for putting together such a memorable journey. From the moment we arrived in Rome, touring the Vatican and the iconic Colosseum, to exploring the vibrant streets of Naples, walking through the incredible ruins of Pompeii, and taking in the beauty of Sorrento, Capri, and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, every destination was unforgettable. One of the most meaningful parts of the trip for me was visiting Sturno, the town where my father was from. It was a special experience that I’ll cherish forever. Everything was so well organized, from the hotels and transportation to the tours and local experiences. We never had to worry about the details because everything was handled with care, allowing us to simply enjoy every moment. A special thank you to the entire Go Real Travel team for your professionalism, organization, and genuine passion for creating unforgettable experiences. You didn’t just plan a vacation, you created memories that will stay with us for a lifetime. I highly recommend Go Real Travel to anyone looking for an authentic, stress-free, and truly amazing travel experience. Thank you for making our dream trip to Italy a reality. We can’t wait to travel with you again!

Just back from 15 day trip to Italy planned for us by Go Real Travel. Go Real formulated an outstanding trip for us based on the locations we wanted to explore. Connections were seamless. Go Real was available throughout the trip to provide on the spot advice and assistance. Our drivers and tour guides were top notch. Our Vatican tour guide was full of great information that made the tour terrific. He even had a PhD in religious studies. Language no problem as they all were fluent in English. We had plenty of time for ourselves and, although we had a full schedule, we didn’t feel rushed. Hotels were in great locations and met our needs. We especially liked the hotel in Sorrento with a view of Mt Vesuvius, and with easy access to Pompeii, Capri,and the Amalfi Coast. Go Real gave us an abundance of information on each of the destinations, so we were well versed even before we got there. They provided step by step instructions for public transportation, which made that portion of our travels easy. We highly recommend that you Go with Go Real!

Overall, the trip was great. The hotels picked were perfect for what we needed/wanted. They were perfectly located so we could walk to the sites we wanted to see. The Guided tours were also what we wanted and the guides were good. We did a lot in the 6-7 days we were there. There is no way we could have planned this trip itinerary on our own. Thank you, Go Real Travel. We will keep you in mind if we plan another adventure.

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