An extraordinary itinerary combining millennia of history, volcanic landscapes and the iconic beauty of the Amalfi Coast. Excursions you can take in these wonders of Campania, starting from Naples or the Sorrento Peninsula: The areas of Pompeii, Herculaneum, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast (Amalfi and Ravello) offer a unique journey ranging from buried archaeology to Mediterranean opulence, making it possible to combine culture and breathtaking views in a single excursion or a multi-day tour.
Archaeological Treasures: Pompeii and Herculaneum
Excursions to the sites buried by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD are an essential journey back in time.
Pompeii: The Great City (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Pompeii was a large and lively commercial centre. Guided tours (often combined with Vesuvius) allow you to explore the amphitheatre, the forum, the streets, the frescoed domus and, above all, the dramatic casts of the victims, offering a vivid picture of daily life abruptly interrupted.
Herculaneum: The Residential City (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Herculaneum is smaller than Pompeii but offers an extraordinary level of preservation, having been buried not by ash and lapilli but by a pyroclastic flow that charred the wood. Entire two-storey structures, intact frescoes and mosaics, and even fossilised wooden furniture can be admired.
- Type of tour: Most tours from Naples or Sorrento include skip-the-line entry and an archaeological guide in Pompeii. Herculaneum is often combined with Pompeii or Vesuvius (an ascent to the crater to admire the Gulf).
The Sorrentine Peninsula: Sorrento
Sorrento is the ideal hub and a fascinating destination in itself, overlooking the bay with views of Naples and Vesuvius. A stop in Sorrento is dedicated to its elegant charm. Explore the shopping streets, the famous Piazza Tasso and admire the breathtaking views that have inspired poets and musicians. It is the perfect place to taste authentic local Limoncello. Combination with other sites: Sorrento serves as a base or stopover for excursions to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast. Many tours include lunch or a tasting of local products here.
The Amalfi Coast: Amalfi, Positano and Ravello
Excursions to the Amalfi Coast are renowned for their scenic routes and the contrast between the deep blue sea and the pastel-coloured villages clinging to the rocks. Amalfi: The Ancient Maritime Republic Amalfi is the historic heart of the Amalfi Coast. The visit focuses on the magnificent Cathedral of Sant’Andrea, with its polychrome façade and the Chiostro del Paradiso (Cloister of Paradise), and on discovering the narrow streets that once housed one of Italy’s four Maritime Republics.
*Positano is the ‘pearl’ of the Amalfi Coast and is certainly not to be missed with its wonders:
Its iconic image as a ‘Vertical City’ is famous throughout the world for its colourful (often white) houses that seem to climb the mountain in a beautiful pyramid descending towards the sea. Positano Fashion: It is the ideal place for shopping, known for its craft shops offering handmade sandals, linen dresses and colourful summer clothes. What to see: Church of Santa Maria Assunta: Recognisable by its splendid yellow and green majolica dome. Spiaggia Grande and Spiaggia di Fornillo: The main beaches, the former more fashionable and the latter quieter. Sentiero degli Dei: Positano is the arrival point (or departure point, depending on the direction) of this famous trekking route, which offers breathtaking views. Unique Charm: It is a labyrinth of narrow alleys and endless stairways connecting the upper part of the village to the beach, making it a place to be explored strictly on foot. Ravello: The Balcony of the Coast Located higher above the sea, Ravello offers the most spectacular views. Don’t miss the gardens of Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone (with the famous Terrazza dell’Infinito), which offer breathtaking views overlooking the sea.Excursions to the Amalfi Coast are renowned for their scenic routes and the contrast between the deep blue sea and the pastel-coloured villages clinging to the rocks. Amalfi: The Ancient Maritime Republic Amalfi is the historic heart of the Amalfi Coast. The visit focuses on the magnificent Cathedral of Sant’Andrea, with its polychrome façade and the Chiostro del Paradiso (Cloister of Paradise), and on discovering the narrow streets that once housed one of Italy’s four Maritime Republics.
*Positano is the ‘pearl’ of the Amalfi Coast and is certainly not to be missed with its wonders:
Its iconic image as a ‘Vertical City’ is famous throughout the world for its colourful (often white) houses that seem to climb the mountain in a beautiful pyramid descending towards the sea. Positano Fashion: It is the ideal place for shopping, known for its craft shops offering handmade sandals, linen dresses and colourful summer clothes. What to see: Church of Santa Maria Assunta: Recognisable by its splendid yellow and green majolica dome. Spiaggia Grande and Spiaggia di Fornillo: The main beaches, the former more fashionable and the latter quieter. Sentiero degli Dei: Positano is the arrival point (or departure point, depending on the direction) of this famous trekking route, which offers breathtaking views. Unique Charm: It is a labyrinth of narrow alleys and endless stairways connecting the upper part of the village to the beach, making it a place to be explored strictly on foot. Ravello: The Balcony of the Coast Located higher above the sea, Ravello offers the most spectacular views. Don’t miss the gardens of Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone (with the famous Terrazza dell’Infinito), which offer breathtaking views overlooking the sea.
Types of Coastal Tours:
By Land (Private or Group Car/Minivan): This is the most popular option, allowing you to travel along the winding coastal road and stop for photos at scenic viewpoints (often including Positano). By Sea (Boat/Ferry): A picturesque and relaxing alternative, often recommended to avoid traffic. It allows you to admire the towns from the unique perspective of the sea.
As the distances are short but there are many attractions, the tours offer various combinations for a full day (approximately 8-10 hours):
- Archaeology and Nature | Pompeii + Vesuvius + Lunch with wine tasting. For lovers of history and light trekking.
- Archaeology and Coast | Pompeii + Sorrento + Stop in Positano (or Amalfi). For those who want a taste of history and panoramic views.
- Complete Coastal Tour: Sorrento + Positano + Amalfi + Ravello. For lovers of iconic landscapes and villages.
These are just suggestions to help you build your own experience according to your desires and needs. Whatever you choose, these excursions will guarantee you total immersion in the historical, natural and cultural beauty of Campania!
PLEASE NOTE:
These are just suggestions to help you build your own experience according to your desires, needs and budget.