Suggested Itinerary for your next Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast Road Trip
Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast make for an idyllic road trip in Italy. The winding roads and stunning coastal views are just a taste of what's to come on this journey through some of southern Italy's most popular destinations. There's plenty to see and do on this route, so we've put together a handy guide to help you plan your perfect road trip! So pack your bags and get ready for an Italian adventure you'll never forget!
How to plan your perfect road trip to Italy's Amalfi Coast and surrounds
The best time of year to visit Italy's Amalfi Coast and surrounds is undoubtedly in the springtime. The weather is mild and pleasant, and the area comes alive with vibrant flowers and greenery. There are also fewer tourists at this time of year, so you'll be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of this beautiful region without having to battle crowds. If you're looking for a summer road trip, the Amalfi Coast is also a great option, as the temperatures are usually quite mild. However, keep in mind that it can get quite busy with tourists, lifting prices and filling the hotels and restaurants! Autumn is another lovely season to visit, as the leaves start to change colour and the temperatures begin to cool down. Winter can be a bit chilly, but the region is still beautiful with the occasional dusting of snow.
The best food and drink to enjoy on a road trip of Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
When road tripping through Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, it's important to indulge in the local cuisine. From Neapolitan pizza to seafood dishes fresh from the Mediterranean Sea, there are plenty of delicious dishes to enjoy on this route. Here are some of our favourites:
Pizza: There's no shortage of great pizzerias in Naples, and you really can't go wrong with a classic Neapolitan pizza. Head to Pizzeria Brandi, founded in 1760 and said to be the birthplace of pizza Margherita, or try L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele for a pizza that's been voted one of the best in the world.
Seafood: The seafood dishes of the Amalfi Coast are some of the best in Italy. Make sure to try some fresh calamari, octopus or mussels, and don't forget the local wine to wash it all down!
Gelato: Italian gelato is some of the best in the world, and you can find great examples all along the Amalfi Coast. Be sure to try a few different flavours, and don't miss out on the Nutella gelato!
What to see and do on a road trip of Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
There's plenty to see and do on a road trip of Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. Here are some of our favourite things to do:
Explore Naples: This vibrant city is full of culture and history, with plenty of great restaurants, bars and cafes to enjoy. Don't miss out on a visit to the Archaeological Museum or the National Theatre.
See Pompeii: The ancient Roman city of Pompeii was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 79 AD, but you can now explore its ruins thanks to excavation work that began in 1748.
Drive along the Amalfi Coast: The winding roads and stunning coastal views make for an unforgettable driving experience.
Island hoping: Check out the 3 beautiful islands of Procida, Ischia and Capri
Naples is a city that frequently goes unnoticed by tourists. Naples provides genuine Italian flavor thanks to its winding cobblestone streets, proper pizza, and genuine Italian taste. The city has a unique energy compared to fashionable Milan or touristy Rome.
The ancient city center, which dates back to the fifth century BC and is on the UNESCO World Heritage list, contains a wealth of remarkable attractions: three vast castles, a royal palace, and more churches and cathedrals than you could ever visit.
The city of Naples is located on a bay, and walking along the two-mile pedestrian-friendly Lungomare, which is filled with cafés and attractions, is popular among locals.
They take their Pizzas seriously in Naples!
There are several criteria for Neapolitan pizzaioli, with the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana ensuring that pizzerias meet the standards for formal accreditation, including that the center of the dough is stretched to no more than 0.15 inches in thickness and that pizza makers only use specific tomatoes and true mozzarella bufala in their recipes.
Caserta
Combining the influences of Versailles, Rome, and Tuscany, the Caserta Royal Palace and Park, north of Naples, was designed according to the wishes of Charles of Bourbon III by Luigi Vanvitelli, one of the greatest Italian architects of the 18th century. Caserta is considered a triumph of Italian Baroque, and ahead of its time. Expanding across 11 acres, the garden's pools, fountains and cascades are aligned through a 'telescope effect', extending as far as the eye can see.
Sant'Agata Dé Goti
The village of Sant'Agata de' Goti is located at the foot of Monte Taburno, in Campania. The town is divided in two parts: a modern, built since the end of the XIX century and the other of Roman foundation, located on a tuff spur. Sant’Agata de’ Goti ends in a sheer drop into a river gorge, creating a long, flat wall as though the builders hit some invisible wall and just stopped.
The stunning town ends abruptly at the edge of the river gorge that forms one of its borders. The tall architecture stops on the lip of the bluff, creating a long and lovely, unbroken wall pocked with residential windows. This natural wall acted as a defense for the town in the past.
Sant’Agata de’ Goti manages to maintain its quaint historic flavor even while it looks like something from a past that that is closer to a fantasy novel.
Island Hopping from Naples
Procida - the best kept secret of Italy
Often overlooked for its bigger cousin, Capri, Procida has to be Italy's best kept secret. This beautiful island usually remains off the beaten track even in the height of the touristy summer period.
There's plenty to see and do on Procida, from exploring its charming medieval town centre to swimming in its crystal-clear waters. Be sure to catch an epic sunset! Watch the show from a high point on the island, preferably with a sea and village view. From the beach or overlooking the marina, Marina Chiaiolella is one of your best choices for sunset viewing. Alternatively, Marina Corricella, either at the waterside or closer to the top of the town.
Ischia
Ischia is the largest of the eight islands in the Gulf of Naples and, unsurprisingly, has something to offer everyone. Lush landscapes, thermal baths, unspoilt beaches and a lively nightlife make it a popular destination for tourists from all over Europe.
The island's main town, Ischia Porto, is home to narrow streets, Baroque churches and a lively piazza. A short walk from the town centre brings you to Castello Aragonese, a medieval fortress that towers over the harbour.
From Ischia Porto it's easy to explore the rest of the island by ferry. The most popular destinations are Forio d'Ischia, with its pretty seaside promenade, and the thermal baths of Lacco Ameno.
Be sure to try some of the local flavours on Ischia, such as the delicious mozzarella di bufala.
And don't forget to enjoy a Nutella pizza for dessert!
Capri
The island of Capri is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, and it's not hard to see why. With its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters and luxurious hotels, it's the perfect place for a relaxing holiday.
Capri town is small but charming, with narrow streets winding their way up the hillside to the imposing Castello Azzurro (Blue Castle). From here you can enjoy panoramic views of the island and the Bay of Naples.
The most popular attraction on Capri is undoubtedly Anacapri, a hilltop town that offers stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea. Don't miss a visit to Villa San Michele, a former home of Swedish doctor Axel Munthe, or to the Gardens of Augustus, a terraced garden that was once a favourite spot of Emperor Augustus.
For those looking for a bit of nightlife, Capri town comes alive after dark with its many bars and clubs.
Herculaneum
Herculaneum is a lesser-known but equally fascinating archaeological site as Pompeii, located just a few miles away. Unlike its more famous neighbour, which was covered in lava and ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, Herculaneum was buried under mud and stones, preserving it in much better condition.
As a result, visitors can see much more of the town's original architecture and decorations than at Pompeii. Herculaneum is also less crowded, so it's a great place to explore at your own pace.
Be sure to visit the Thermal Baths, which were used by the residents of Herculaneum for bathing and leisure activities.
Related > Road Tripping in the Deep South of Italy
Pompeii
Pompeii is without doubt the most famous archaeological site in Italy, and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The town was completely destroyed when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, but was later excavated and restored.
Today, visitors can see evidence of all aspects of Roman life in Pompeii, from lavish villas to the public baths and brothels. One of the most famous sights is the plaster casts of people who were killed by the eruption, which give a chilling insight into what life was like in Pompeii before it was destroyed.
Pompeii is a huge site, so be sure to allow plenty of time for exploring. A good way to see as much as possible is to join a guided tour, which can be booked at the entrance.
Sorrento, Italy
If you're looking for a beautiful and relaxing Italian town to visit, Sorrento is the place for you. Situated on the Amalfi Coast, it's well known for its stunning coastal views, delicious food and wine, and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Sorrento is a great base from which to explore the rest of the Amalfi Coast, with destinations such as Amalfi, Positano and Ravello all within easy reach. Be sure to visit the main square in Sorrento, Piazza Tasso, and enjoy a gelato or two while you're there!
Positano, Italy
Positano is one of the most picturesque towns on the Amalfi Coast, and is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. With its dramatic setting on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, narrow streets filled with quaint shops and restaurants, and beautiful beaches, it's easy to see why Positano is so popular.
Be sure to visit the main beach, Spiaggia Grande, and enjoy a drink or some lunch in one of the many bars and cafes lining the seafront. If you're feeling adventurous, take a boat trip to the nearby island of Capri.
Praiano, Italy
If you're looking for a quieter town to visit on the Amalfi Coast, Praiano is a great choice. With its narrow streets, pretty squares and stunning views, it's hard not to fall in love with Praiano.
Be sure to wander around the old part of town, where you'll find charming churches and historical buildings dating back to the 13th century. Although the village of Positano is just a short drive away, you can really see how Praiano is off the tourist trap list. And don't forget to enjoy a gelato or two while you're in Praiano!
Furore
A small, picturesque town to visit on your road trip along the Amalfi Coast, Furore is well worth a stop. With its brightly coloured houses perched on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, Furore is one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. In fact, unlike the great majority of small towns and villages in Italy, Furore has neither a main square nor a town center, consisting instead of a sprinkling of little cottages clinging to the rock face.
Be sure to wander around the old part of town, where you'll find narrow streets and stunning views.
Parking at Furore is almost impossible. There is no street parking (either for vehicles or scooters), so the only nearby option is to park in one of the parking areas for the Euroconca or La Locanda del Fiordo restaurants and either have lunch or dinner there. The closest parking area to Furore is at Marina di Praia in Praiano, about two kilometers away. Otherwise, leave your car in Amalfi or Conca de Marini and take the bus to the Fjord.
Amalfi, Italy
The town of Amalfi is one of the most popular destinations on the Amalfi Coast, and for good reason. With its stunning setting on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, narrow streets filled with quaint shops and restaurants, and beautiful beaches, it's easy to see why Amalfi is so popular.
Be sure to visit the main square in Amalfi, Piazza del Duomo, and enjoy a drink or some lunch in one of the many bars and cafes lining the seafront. If you're feeling adventurous, take a boat trip to the nearby island of Capri.
Atrani-There's more than one "Italy's best kept secret"
Atrani won’t be the first place which comes to mind when you think of Italian beach resorts. However, if you want to learn more about what Italy is really all about, then this is the location you should go to. Though Atrani is only a short drive from Amalfi's famed and vibrant holiday destination, it has remained untouched by mass tourism and is one of Italy's best-kept secrets.
Atrani is a tiny fishing town with less than a thousand people. It sits on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea, nestled between two steep cliffs. Above a lovely stretch of fine sand, its multi-colored buildings rise tier upon tier. It is one of Italy's most beautiful and charming settings.
Ravello, Italy
Situated on a hilltop overlooking the town of Amalfi and the Mediterranean Sea, Ravello is one of the most picturesque towns in Italy. With its narrow streets, pretty squares and stunning views, it's easy to see why Ravello is such a popular destination for tourists.
Be sure to visit Villa Cimbrone and enjoy its beautiful gardens, or take a walk through the town and enjoy the views from the many terraces. If you're feeling adventurous, take a hike up to the top of Mount Solaro for stunning views over the Amalfi Coast.
Valle Delle Ferriere
A deep and lush valley, crossed by a torrent of crystal clear water, spectacular waterfalls, ancient water mills and ironworks.
The Ferriere Valley, which is one of Italy's 41 biogenetic reserves, is located in the province of Salerno. A deep valley that begins in the mountains of Scala and extends six kilometers farther down into Amalfi territory. It's a piece of nature that has been handed down to us nearly intact from the distant past.
Related > Road Tripping in the Deep South of Italy
Cetara
If you're looking for a more peaceful and quiet town to visit on your road trip along the Amalfi Coast, Cetara is a great option. With its narrow streets, brightly coloured houses and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, Cetara is one of the most beautiful towns in Italy.
Be sure to wander around the old part of town, where you'll find narrow streets and stunning views. Park your car (or scooter) in one of the few available spots and enjoy a walk along the coast or a meal in one of the many restaurants in town. The picturesque white architecture, along with the marvelous secluded beach make Cetara one of the jewels of the Amalfi Coast. Among the small sugar-cube houses you'll find the church of St Peter with a noteworthy glazed dome and the thirteenth-century bell tower with double lancet windows.
Related > Road Tripping in the Deep South of Italy
Salerno, Italy
Salerno is the largest city on the Amalfi Coast and a great place to spend a day or two while road tripping along the coast. With its many historical sights, lovely parks and gardens, and great restaurants and cafes, there's plenty to keep you busy in Salerno.
Be sure to visit the Duomo di Salerno, a Romanesque cathedral dating back to the eleventh century, and take a walk through the beautiful gardens of Villa Comunale. If you're looking for something more active, head to the beach and enjoy a swim in the Mediterranean Sea or go for a hike in the nearby mountains. Salerno is also home to one of Italy's most famous universities, so be sure to wander around the old town and take in the sights and sounds of a lively Italian city.
Related > Road Tripping in the Deep South of Italy
Your Road Trip of Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast is a definite bucket list contender
There's no better way to experience the beauty and charm of Italy than by road tripping along the Amalfi Coast. With its stunning scenery, charming villages, lovely beaches and great restaurants, you're sure to have a wonderful time.
If you're looking for a road trip that will take your breath away, put Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast on your list. Between the stunning views, delicious food and abundance of activities to keep you busy, this trip is sure to please. Have you been to any of these destinations? What was your favorite part?
