south italy travel route

The Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the vibrant city of Naples and the awe inspiring views of the Amalfi Coast, to the traditional Italian towns of Puglia and Sicily’s beaches, volcanoes and cuisine, it’s time to plan the ultimate southern Italy road trip!

When it comes to road trips, a journey through southern Italy offers a chance to see a combination of spectacular scenery, traditional towns and epic natural wonders. One minute you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii, the next you’re driving along the heart-stopping roads of the Amalfi Coast.

You could spend a few days exploring Puglia’s prettiest towns including Monopoli and Ostuni, before spending the rest of the week enjoying the crystal waters in Sicily .

There’s a variety of cuisines to sample too, with incredible pizza in Naples, seafood pasta in Puglia, tasty olive oil and Sicilian delicacies including arrancini and sweet cannolis.

Oh and you’ve got a mix of activities on offer too. Hike active volcano Stromboli in Sicily , take a boat trip to the glamorous island of Capri , stay in a traditional Trulli house in Alberobello or go on a pizza tour of Naples (it’s a hard life!)

And the best part about a southern Italy road trip? The fact you don’t have stick to a set route. While you could follow my southern Italy itinerary on the map below, I’d encourage you to read my travel tips and then add a few stops of your own. It’s a beautiful part of the country – you could find yourself passing fields of olive trees or winding along dramatic cliff roads. You never know what you’ll find!  

Rather than create one epic Italian road trip, I’ve divided the country in two! Read on for my southern Italy road trip or check out my route for an amazing northern Italy road trip , which includes stops in Rome, Verona, Venice, Lake Como and a few other beautiful spots. 

Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

This south of Italy road trip starts in Naples and ends in Sicily – both of which have plenty of flight options available. Italy self-drive holidays are growing in popularity, and it’s easy to see why with routes like this one!

From eating pizza in Naples, to feeling like a movie star as you drive the Amalfi Coast, and then onto some of the prettiest towns in Italy as you explore Puglia, before finishing your enjoying Sicily’s dramatic landscapes, this route has it all! It’ll definitely show you some of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy too.

It’s also an easy one to break up – you could just concentrate on Naples and Amalfi, or spend a week exploring Puglia. These are some of my favourite parts of Italy, so I’m excited to share why they should be on your Italy road trip itinerary. I’d recommend a minimum of one week in southern Italy, but if you want to cram in everything on this blog, I’d suggest two to three weeks.

I’d also recommend taking a look at my guide to the best hidden gems in Italy too – you might find a few other stops to visit while you’re touring southern Italy.

Southern Italy Road Trip Map

I’ve used a map to plot the perfect route for your Southern Italy road trip . I recommend opening it another window to study in detail!

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list. I’ve also included lots of must-haves at the end of this post, to make the process much easier!

Southern Italy Road Trip: Stop 1 – Naples

Once you’ve exhausted northern Italy , it’s time to head south on your Italy road trip. The unspoilt shores of the southern coastline will appeal to travellers who like to explore off the beaten track.

First up, the bustling streets of Naples. Set on the Mediterranean coastline with active volcano Mount Vesuvius as its backdrop, this exciting city is the birthplace of Italian pizza, mysterious underground catacombs, castles and lively main squares.

If you choose to stay in Naples for a few nights, you could take day trips to the Amalfi Coast, hop on a boat to the island of Capri or tour Pompeii’s archaeological sites. There are lots of amazing southern Italy tours to choose from!

Southern Italy Road Trip: Stop 2 – Amalfi Coast

If your idea of the perfect Italy road trip is immersing yourself in glitz and glamour of old-time Italy, the Amalfi Coast is for you. With cliffside villages, colourful buildings and secluded beaches which lead to the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, it’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited in Italy. It’s also known for being one of the best Italian road trips.

Brace yourself if you’re the designated driver! The coastal road is winding and not for the faint hearted, but the views are worth it. Don’t miss the picturesque towns of Praiano, Ravello, Sorrento and Positano – a classic holiday resort with an old-world grandeur and panoramic views along the coast.

If you plan to stay a few nights, Sorrento is a good choice. With museums, piazzas, shopping and reasonably priced accommodation on offer, it’s a great base from which to explore the towns along the coast and visit the island of Capri. I’d recommend reading this guide to where to stay in Sorrento during your trip planning!

I did some of this road trip in reverse last summer and ended in Amalfi Coast before driving to Naples and fly home. We booked a last minute night at one of the hotels in Vietri Sul Mare, a town close to Salerno, right at the start of the coast. It was a basic hotel, but I still dream about the views regularly – looking out over that incredible blue water and the beautiful town and beach. I’d go back in a heartbeat! 

Southern Italy Road Trip: Stop 3 – Puglia

Puglia is where we chose to go on our main holiday last year. Similar to this southern Italy travel itinerary, we hired a car in Naples and drove across the country to Italy’s heel. Driving in southern Italy wasn’t too scary, although some of the smaller towns and villages have narrow roads, so I’d recommend hiring a compact car. 

Puglia is pretty, traditional, and has a great reputation for food. It’s one of my favourite parts of Italy. Home to unspoilt sandy beaches and cliffside fishing villages, Puglia is often overlooked in favour of glam places like Amalfi or Cinque Terre, but I think it offers a lot.

You could spend a few weeks just in Puglia, and still have plenty more to go back for, as there are gorgeous beaches, pretty towns and lots of history to keep you busy!  A few places I’d recommend visiting are Alberobello, with its traditional white, cone-shaped Trulli houses (which, collectively have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site ). We spent a night staying in one and it was absolutely magical.

We also stayed in Monopoli – a beautiful seaside town with a small beach, medieval city walls and maze-like cobbled streets fulled with tiny wine bars and rustic restaurants.

Polignano a Mare is one of the most famous towns, and another absolutely stunning spot. With it’s cove like beach, dramatic cliffs and even a cave restaurant built into the rocks overlooking the water, I fell in love with the place! We spent a day there, eating fresh seafood pasta and gelato while meandering the pretty streets.

Ostuni is another must-see (and one of the best hidden gems in Italy ). It’s known as the white city, and from afar has the appearance of lots of white houses stacked up on top of each other. Park somewhere outside the old city and wander up the hill, taking in the magic of the white washed buildings, cute pizzerias and architectural wonders. 

If you’re planning a trip to Italy and interested in discovering Baroque architecture as well as having lively nightlife, street food and café lined piazzas, venture to Lecce, one of Puglia’s largest cities. Or consider a trip to Bari or Gallipoli – both great stops on your Puglia road trip. If you’re having trouble choosing where to stay, check out the 11 best luxury villas in Puglia .

Southern Italy Road Trip: Stop 4 – Sicily Itinerary

As you can see, the drive from Puglia to Sicily is a long one. You could do it in a day, but you might be more comfortable breaking it up over a few nights. The fastest ferry route to Sicily is from Reggio Calabria and it takes around half an hour.

This is one of the best parts of the itinerary, so there’s a chance you may want to book a dedicated holiday for your Sicily road trip, as there’s so much to see and do. Adventure lovers might want to climb Mount Etna. Over 3500m high, you can get pretty high up with minimal effort, as there’s a cable car to get you up to 2500m!

In terms of beauty, Taormina is one of the prettiest hilltop towns in Sicily. It’s home to a theatre built by the ancient greeks, several historic churches, and pretty streets filled with colourful market stalls and restaurants.

It’s also a gorgeous region for hotels, with everything from cute boutique hotels to grand resorts. My guide to the best beach resorts in Sicily will help you pick where to stay!

Nature lovers will enjoy bird-spotting in the reserves, or you can spend time enjoying the sandy beaches of picturesque Cefalu or Mondello.

It doesn’t seem long ago that I spent a week sailing around Sicily’s Aeolian Islands – something I’d recommend in a heartbeat if you have a bit longer to spent in the region. I hiked Stromboli Volcano, took a mud bath on Vulcano island, and went wine tasting in Salina. The islands are gorgeous, varied and have a wonderful old world charm that I found very comforting.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Southern Italy?

Italy has a Mediterranean climate and is a lovely destination to visit all year round.

Temperatures vary by region, but as a quick example, you can expect average temperatures of around 0°C in around Cortina (a ski resort in the mountains) in January, and as high as 37°C in July in cities such as Milan and Venice. Temperatures in the south remain mild in winter, making destinations like Puglia and Sicily great options for a winter holiday.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit southern Italy, I’d suggest planning a trip between April and June, or in September or October, just after the peak summer season.

The weather tends to be consistent in these months, but isn’t too hot. Plus, as you’re missing peak season, you should benefit from lower prices and fewer people.

Packing List For Southern Italy

Now you’ve got your route planned out, it’s time to decide what to pack! Here are a few quick suggestions of what to take, with some links to specific items I’d rate picking up before you travel.

Women’s packing list for Southern Italy

Women’s lightweight trousers – It’s good to have some conservative items and not flash too much skin. These are practical, lightweight but a bit cute too! Women’s sundress – Something pretty and not too short for when it’s appropriate. Women’s maxi dress – I quite liked having a longer item or two. If you pair it with a cardigan it’s more conservative too. Women’s midi skirt – I live in items like this in warm countries and have them in multiple colours and patterns. They’re comfortable and not revealing.

Women’s shorts – I packed a few pairs. I’d recommend something loose and comfortable like these shorts , and then perhaps some classic denim shorts too. Women’s summer top – I wore a lot of things like this. Neutral colours work best as you can mix and match with shorts and skirts. Plus, you can dress them up or dress them down! Women’s zip up hooded jacket – A few places get chilly, so you’ll want to be able to layer up occasionally. A zip up hoody like this will come in handy. Women’s bikini – You’ll need to pack a couple of items of swimwear. There are so many cute bikinis out there to choose from! Women’s rash guard – Not essential, but if you burn easily (or plan to surf) I’d recommend one of these. This one is great as it has a built-in bra and comes with a pair of matching shorts. Women’s sports vest – I’d recommend one or two sweat-absorbing vests like this for adventurous activities. Women’s sports bra – Ideal for sporty or adventure activities. I prefer sports bras like this Under Armour one which has some built in padding for extra support. Women’s leggings – Leggings are great for active adventures. These Under Armour ones are great as they’re very lightweight. Sarong – A really useful item for any travels in warm countries! Use it as a towel, a cover up, to sit on, to lie on or for a cute addition to an outfit! Sun hat – You’ll definitely want a sun hat to protect yourself. Sunglasses – I’ve owned a pair of these Ray Bans for a few years now and love them!

Men’s packing list for Southern Italy

Men’s casual shorts – I’d recommend several pairs of comfortable shorts for everyday use. Men’s chinos or jeans – I’d recommend a few pairs of chinos, jeans or cargo pants. Men’s T-shirts – Pack a few options of t-shirts too. Men’s shirts – A few shirts (long or short sleeved) are a good idea. I personally love these linen shirts . They look very cool!

Men’s vests – If you sweat a lot, you might find vest tops more comfortable in the heat. Men’s zip up hooded jacket – You might want to layer up if it gets chilly in the evenings. Men’s jumper – A smarter option for keeping warm.   Men’s sports tops – For active days, something like this is really useful as it’s super-absorbent. Men’s sports shorts – If you’re doing some adventurous hikes or activities, you’ll want shorts you can move freely in. Swimming trunks – The more fun the pattern, the better! These ones have pockets and are quick dry too. Baseball cap – Look for one with a mesh back like this one , so it’s more breathable. Sunglasses – You can’t beat a classic pair of these Ray Bans !

Other general items to pack for Southern Italy

If you’re planning your trip, you should think about more than just clothing when you start packing. Here are a few items I’d recommend adding to your suitcase…

Insect repellent – There are plenty of really good insect repellents like this one . If you’re travelling with kids you might want to buy a specific children’s insect repellent too.

Bite relief – I usually take an after bite / anti-itch cream like this , that helps to soothe any bites. I also swear by this amazing Bite Away Pen , which sends a small electric shock to the itchy part of the bite. It takes a bit of getting used to at first (and sometimes hurts a tiny bit), but it does work. I’ve done a full review of the item (as it goes everywhere with me!!) so feel free to read more here . 

Travel towel – A fast-drying microfibre towel like this one will come in handy on your trip. These are great not only for when you fancy a swim, but also when you want to sit down on the ground or to wipe your sweaty face on a humid day!

Sun cream – It’s important to apply suncream throughout the day. I’d recommend finding a brand which isn’t too heavy on chemicals, or is almost totally natural, like this one made by Sun Bum . 

Sunglasses – It’s important to protect your eyes when you visit a holiday destination like this one. I’d recommend investing in some high-quality UV protected sunglasses. I’ve owned a pair of these Ray Bans for a few years now and love them!

Sun hat – You’ll definitely want a sun hat like this to protect yourself on all of those sunny days!

After sun or aloe vera – Don’t forget some soothing cream incase you do burn. I really like this one made by Ultrasun . It’s lightweight and feels lovely on your skin.

Rain jacket – Be prepared for those sporadic rain showers. As you won’t need it for warmth, I’d recommend a lightweight waterproof jacket that packs down small. Something like this would be perfect.

Umbrella – I’d also recommend an umbrella for rainy season. I’d been looking for a super compact option for ages, and finally found this one which fits in my small handbag and is nice and sturdy.

Daypack backpack – I used a small backpack for day-to-day adventures, which could fit a water bottle, camera, sun cream and bug spray. I also took a small shoulder bag to use for going for dinner in the evenings. If you’re looking for something nice and small, lightweight, water-resistant and that will fit all your essentials, I’d recommend this daypack . It’s got some very handy zip-up pockets too!

Reusable water bottle   – I always recommend packing a reusable water bottle for travel. Even if you can’t drink the tap water, it means you can top up from giant bottles or water coolers rather than buying lots of plastic bottles. Personally I’d recommend the  Chilly’s water bottles . I’ve got a few in different sizes and they are excellent quality! I also really like these bottles with straws . They’re really easy to drink from, they have a strap, never leak and hold a good volume.

Power bank – It depends how much you use your phone on holiday, but I used mine a lot during my trip, snapping photos and videos along the way. A portable battery pack is a great idea so you don’t have to worry about running out of charge at an important moment.

I have a few made by Anker and they’re great quality and have lasted for a long time. This is the one I’m using at the moment , which is really small (similar size to my phone) but stores lots of charge and has a fast charging capability. 

Plug adapter – I pack this universal travel adapter for all of my travels. It charges multiple items at once, using plugs or USB and can be used anywhere in the world. It’s one of my fave travel gadgets!

Dry bag – I’m really happy I invested in a dry bag like this . It’s made from a thick plastic and is totally waterproof. These dry bags are perfect for adventures on the water, visiting waterfalls, or if you think it’s going to rain heavily. I’d recommend a small one for your phone and camera gear, or a larger one if you want to use it as your main bag for an activity.

Waterproof phone case – Similarly, if you want to take your phone out and about in the water, I’d recommend getting a waterproof phone case. There are quite a few to choose from, but I’d recommend reading the reviews! You need this to protect your phone and be 100% watertight after all! I bought these Moko cases myself and my partner and they’ve been great. We’ve used them on several trips snorkelling and to waterfalls now, and no leaks!

I hope you’ve enjoyed my southern Italy road trip itinerary. Let me know where you decide to go and what your highlights are! As mentioned, this is probably best spread out and followed at a slower pace, so if you’re looking for a southern Italy itinerary for 14 days, it’s ideal!

Looking to explore more of the country? Check out my northern Italy road trip itinerary ! 

I honestly think this is the best south Italy itinerary as it’s got a bit of everything. If you want to save it to help with your trip planning, how about pinning it for later… 

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

1 thought on “The Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More”

I haven’t been to Italy since I was a teenager! Now I’m trying to figure out why it’s hasn’t been higher up my list?? Those pictures make me want to be there now! Thanks for the inspiration and the tips! ?

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Unforgettable Southern Italy Itinerary: Your Ultimate Guide

• Post author: angelo
• Post published: November 27, 2023
• Post category: Italy

This comprehensive Southern Italy itinerary will take you through some of the most popular and hidden gems of the region. Explore the stunning Amalfi Coast , visit the iconic sites of Pompeii and Capri , and discover the charm of smaller towns like Sorrento and Matera . This ultimate guide will provide all the information you need to plan your unforgettable trip to Southern Italy.

Key Takeaways:

• Explore the breathtaking Amalfi Coast towns and enjoy the stunning coastal views
• Visit the well-preserved ruins of Pompeii and learn about its fascinating history
• Discover the enchanting island of Capri and its crystal-clear waters
• Immerse yourself in the unique charm of Matera and its cave dwellings
• Explore the beautiful region of Puglia and its white-washed towns

Places You Will Visit on This Southern Italy Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Southern Italy and explore a range of incredible destinations. From the breathtaking Amalfi Coast towns to the historic ruins of Pompeii and the picturesque towns of Sorrento and Matera, this itinerary will take you to some of the must-visit destinations in Southern Italy .

Start your adventure by visiting the stunning Amalfi Coast , known for its dramatic cliffs, colorful coastal towns, and crystal-clear waters. Explore the charming towns of Positano , Amalfi , and Ravello , each offering their own unique charm and beauty. Wander through the narrow streets, visit historical sites, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

“The Amalfi Coast is a true gem of Southern Italy, with its picturesque towns and stunning coastline. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Southern Italy.”

Next, immerse yourself in the ancient history of Pompeii. Walk through the well-preserved ruins of this Roman city and learn about its fascinating past. Discover the ruins of temples, villas, and amphitheaters, and get a glimpse into what life was like during the Roman era.

Continue your journey in the charming town of Sorrento , located on the Amalfi Coast . Indulge in the delicious cuisine, visit local attractions like the Cathedral of Sorrento and the Correale Museum, and take in the stunning views of the Bay of Naples . Sorrento is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area and experiencing the beauty of Southern Italy.

Table: Must-Visit Destinations in Southern Italy

From the well-known destinations to the hidden gems, this itinerary promises to showcase the best of Southern Italy, providing you with a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Day 1: Getting to Sorrento & the Amalfi Coast

Kickstart your Southern Italy itinerary by flying into either Rome or Naples, two major international airports. From there, make your way to the charming town of Sorrento on the Amalfi Coast.

There are several transportation options available for traveling from Rome or Naples to Sorrento. If you prefer a hassle-free journey, opt for a private transfer or a pre-booked taxi. Alternatively, you can take a train from Rome or Naples to Sorrento, enjoying scenic views along the way. The train journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Naples and around 3 hours from Rome.

Once you arrive in Sorrento , spend the day exploring the town and settling into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets, lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy the stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, which dominates the skyline. Visit the historic Sorrento Cathedral and the beautiful Villa Comunale gardens, offering panoramic views of the coast. Indulge in the local cuisine, including the famous limoncello, a lemon liqueur made from the region’s abundant citrus fruits.

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot to savor a delicious dinner featuring fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and local specialties. Sorrento is known for its culinary delights, and you won’t be disappointed with the array of flavors and aromas that await you.

Top Attractions in Sorrento

• Historic Sorrento Cathedral
• Villa Comunale gardens
• Piazza Tasso
• Marina Grande
• Corso Italia

Day 2: Exploring Pompeii and Sorrento

On the second day of your Southern Italy itinerary , you will have the opportunity to delve into the rich history of Pompeii and soak up the charming atmosphere of Sorrento. Start your day by embarking on a day trip to the ancient city of Pompeii, which was buried under ash and preserved for centuries after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Explore the well-preserved ruins of this Roman city, stroll along its ancient streets, and marvel at the fascinating remnants of daily life from thousands of years ago. The archaeological site of Pompeii offers a captivating glimpse into the past and provides a unique and memorable experience.

After immersing yourself in the history of Pompeii, return to Sorrento and continue your exploration of this beautiful town. Get lost in the narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, browse the delightful shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, and stop by one of the charming cafes to savor a traditional Italian espresso. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the famous Limoncello, a lemon liqueur made from the delicious lemons that grow abundantly in the region. As you wander through Sorrento, take in the stunning views of the Bay of Naples and the picturesque coastline, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Sorrento is also known for its delectable cuisine, so be sure to indulge in some of the local delicacies. Treat yourself to a delicious plate of fresh pasta or enjoy a mouthwatering pizza made with locally sourced ingredients. As the day comes to an end, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, known as Marina Grande, and watch the sun set over the sea, leaving behind a breathtaking panorama of colors.

Table: Highlights of Day 2

Day 3: discovering the amalfi coast.

On day three of your Southern Italy vacation , you will have the opportunity to explore the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. This iconic region is known for its stunning coastal landscapes, picturesque towns, and vibrant atmosphere. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty and charm of the Amalfi Coast as you visit the must-see towns of Positano , Amalfi , and Ravello .

Table: Must-Visit Towns on the Amalfi Coast

Start your day by visiting Positano, where you can soak in the stunning views and explore the colorful streets lined with boutique shops and cafes. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach or relax on the sun-kissed shores. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its stunning dome and ancient Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary.

Next, make your way to Amalfi, a town steeped in history and charm. Explore the historic center, visit the impressive Amalfi Cathedral, and wander through the labyrinthine streets adorned with local craftsmanship. Take a moment to savor a refreshing gelato or enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants.

End your day in Ravello, a hidden gem perched high above the coast. Visit the beautiful Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, famous for their stunning gardens and breathtaking views. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the town’s quaint streets and discover the enchanting atmosphere that has inspired countless artists and writers over the years.

Day 4: Exploring Capri

On the fourth day of your Southern Italy itinerary , take a ferry ride to the enchanting island of Capri . Renowned for its natural beauty and glamorous atmosphere, Capri is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Begin your day by visiting the iconic Blue Grotto , a sea cave known for its mesmerizing blue reflections. Take a boat tour to explore this magical place and marvel at the stunning colors of the water.

Afterward, explore the charming town of Capri , characterized by its elegant boutiques, designer shops, and picturesque cafés. Stroll through the narrow streets lined with colorful flowers and whitewashed buildings, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a chairlift ride to the top of Mount Solaro , the highest point on the island, for panoramic views that will take your breath away.

For a taste of Italian luxury, indulge in a leisurely lunch at one of Capri’s waterfront restaurants, where you can savor fresh seafood and local specialties. Afterward, continue your exploration by visiting the Gardens of Augustus , a peaceful oasis with lush vegetation and stunning views of the famous Faraglioni rock formations.

End your day by relaxing on one of Capri’s beautiful beaches, such as Marina Piccola or Faro di Punta Carena, where you can soak up the sun and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. As the sun sets, enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the island’s acclaimed restaurants and savor the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine.

Day 5: Immersing in Matera and Alberobello

On day five of your Southern Italy itinerary , prepare to explore the unique towns of Matera and Alberobello. These destinations offer a glimpse into the rich history and architectural wonders of the region, making them must-visit attractions for any traveler.

Matera: Cave Dwellings and Ancient Architecture

Start your day by driving to Matera, a town famous for its cave dwellings and ancient architecture. Matera’s Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze-like complex of cave houses, churches, and troglodyte dwellings carved into the rock. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of this ancient settlement and explore the narrow streets that wind through the Sassi. You’ll be captivated by the unique atmosphere and stunning views of this remarkable town.

Alberobello: The Trulli Houses

After immersing yourself in the history of Matera, continue your journey to Alberobello , a town renowned for its Trulli houses. These traditional Apulian dwellings are characterized by their conical roofs and stone construction, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. Wander through the narrow streets lined with these unique buildings, visit the Trulli houses turned into museums, and shop for local crafts and souvenirs. The picturesque charm of Alberobello will transport you to another time.

Both Matera and Alberobello offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Southern Italy . From the ancient cave dwellings of Matera to the whimsical Trulli houses of Alberobello, these towns showcase the unique architectural wonders of the region. Immerse yourself in the history and charm of Matera and Alberobello, and create lasting memories of your Southern Italy adventure.

Day 6-10: Exploring Puglia and Beyond

As you continue your Southern Italy itinerary , days 6-10 are dedicated to exploring the stunning region of Puglia and beyond. This part of the itinerary allows you to immerse yourself in the unique culture and breathtaking landscapes of this lesser-known region. With its charming towns, picturesque coastlines, and rich historical heritage, Puglia offers a truly authentic Italian experience.

Table: Highlights of Puglia

During your time in Puglia , make sure to take in the stunning coastal landscapes, enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, and savor the delicious local cuisine. Puglia is known for its fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and locally produced olive oil, so be sure to indulge in these gastronomic delights.

If you have extra time, consider venturing even further and explore other hidden gems in the region, such as the beautiful towns of Matera and Alberobello, which were covered earlier in the itinerary. Each destination in Puglia and beyond offers its own unique charm and beauty, providing a truly unforgettable experience.

Best Time to Visit Southern Italy

When planning your Southern Italy Itinerary , it’s important to consider the best time to visit in order to make the most of your experience. The region’s Mediterranean climate means that the weather can vary throughout the year, so choosing the right time to go can greatly enhance your trip. The best time to visit Southern Italy is generally in May, June, September, and October, when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are not at peak levels. During these months, you can expect warm temperatures, clear skies, and mild sea breezes, creating idyllic conditions for exploring the stunning coastline and charming towns.

Visiting Southern Italy in the summer months of July and August is also an option, but it’s worth noting that this is the peak tourist season. The Amalfi Coast , in particular, can be crowded with tourists during this time, and prices for accommodations and rental cars may be higher. However, if you don’t mind the crowds and higher prices, you’ll still be able to enjoy the region’s beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

For those looking to avoid the summer crowds, late fall through early spring can be a great time to visit Southern Italy . The weather during this time is cooler, but still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. However, it’s worth noting that some hotels and restaurants may be closed or operating on reduced hours during the offseason, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

Getting Around Southern Italy

Exploring the beautiful region of Southern Italy, especially Puglia and Basilicata , is best done by renting a car. Public transportation options are limited in this part of Italy , and having a car gives you the freedom and flexibility to visit smaller towns and less accessible destinations. However, it is important to note that driving along the Amalfi Coast can be challenging. The narrow, winding roads and heavy traffic can make for a stressful experience. It is advised to use alternate modes of transportation, such as ferries and buses, when exploring this area. This way, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views without the hassle of driving.

In Puglia and Basilicata, having a car is essential for discovering the hidden gems of the region. The picturesque towns, stunning countryside, and off-the-beaten-path attractions are best explored at your own pace. Renting a car will allow you to venture off the main tourist routes and discover the authentic charm and beauty of Southern Italy. Plus, with a car, you can easily stop at roadside trattorias and vineyards to indulge in the delicious local cuisine and exquisite wines that the region is known for.

While driving is the preferred mode of transportation in Southern Italy, there are other options available for getting around. Ferries are a popular way to travel between the mainland and the islands, such as Capri, and can provide a scenic and relaxing journey. Buses also connect many of the major towns and cities, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel. However, it is important to note that bus schedules may not always be reliable, and it may be necessary to be flexible with your plans.

In summary, renting a car is the best way to explore Southern Italy, especially Puglia and Basilicata. It provides the freedom to visit smaller towns and less accessible destinations at your own pace. However, when driving along the Amalfi Coast, it is advisable to use alternate modes of transportation due to the challenging road conditions. Whether you choose to rent a car, take a ferry, or use buses, Southern Italy awaits with its captivating landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality.

A trip to Southern Italy is a truly unforgettable experience, filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. This ultimate guide has provided you with a comprehensive itinerary to help you make the most of your trip. From the Amalfi Coast to Matera and Puglia , each destination offers its own unique charm and beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a nature enthusiast, Southern Italy has something for everyone.

So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through this captivating region. Explore the picturesque towns, delve into ancient ruins, and indulge in the flavors of local cuisine. Whether you choose to follow this itinerary or tailor your own, make sure to prioritize the must-visit destinations and hidden gems of Southern Italy .

With its breathtaking scenery, warm Mediterranean climate, and friendly locals, Southern Italy is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation. So make Southern Italy your next travel adventure and create lifelong memories in one of the most beautiful regions in the world.

What are the must-visit destinations in Southern Italy?

On this itinerary, you will visit the stunning Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Capri, Sorrento, Matera, and Alberobello. You will also explore Puglia, including the towns of Polignano a Mare, Lecce, and Ostuni.

What is the best time to visit Southern Italy?

The best time to visit is in May, June, September, and October when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are not at peak levels. July and August can be crowded with tourists, and prices can be higher. Late fall through early spring can also be a good time to visit, although some hotels and restaurants may be closed.

How should I get around Southern Italy?

Renting a car is the best way to explore Southern Italy, especially in Puglia and Basilicata. Public transportation is limited in this region, but driving on the Amalfi Coast can be challenging. Alternate modes of transportation, such as ferries and buses, are recommended for exploring this area.

What can I expect during my trip to Southern Italy?

A trip to Southern Italy is a truly unforgettable experience filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. Each destination offers its own unique charm and beauty, whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a nature enthusiast.

How many days should I plan for this itinerary?

This itinerary spans a total of 10 days. However, you have the flexibility to adjust the duration based on your preferences and available time.

Are there any specific travel tips for Southern Italy?

It is recommended to avoid peak tourist season in July and August to avoid crowds and higher prices. Additionally, be prepared for challenging driving conditions on the Amalfi Coast and consider using alternate modes of transportation in that area.

Will I need to make hotel reservations in advance?

It is advisable to make hotel reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist season. This will ensure that you have a place to stay in your desired locations and avoid any last-minute availability issues.

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The Ultimate Two Week Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

I’ve spent a great deal of time travelling all over Italy. Partly because I’m married to an Italian, but mostly because I just love it. Nothing fills me with more happiness than sitting in a beautiful piazza eating pasta and sipping a prosecco or primitivo. The south of Italy has some of the country’s best beaches, is the birthplace of pizza, mozzarella and burrata and contains some incredible architectural and cultural sites. After exploring the area in both a motorhome and with a car and in hotels, here is what I think is the perfect Southern Italy road trip itinerary. 

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and purchase something I’ve recommended I may earn a small commission. This does not affect the price you pay but helps me to run this site. You can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

Where to start your Italy road trip? 

As with my Northern Italy road trip route , this itinerary follows a loop, so you can start and finish at any point of the itinerary. I’m suggesting Naples as a starting point as it has the largest airport in southern Italy aside from Rome, with plenty of car rental options . 

This 14 day Italy itinerary is fairly fast-paced but can be slowed down if you have more time. I’ve also offered detours if you have a longer trip and the option to take a longer Italian road trip. 

Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary:

• Day 1-2 Campania
• Day 3-6 Puglia 
• Day 7-10 Calabria
• Day 11 Basilicata 
• Day 12-14 Campania

Camper or Car?

This is a beautiful part of the world to travel by motorhome or campervan but equally, there are some absolutely stunning hotels in Southern Italy too. So either option is great and I’ve included recommended places to stay for both. 

Hire a car in Italy.

Hire a motorhome or camper in Italy.

Tips for driving in Italy

Driving in Italy can seem a little scary but once you get used to the Italian driving style it’s generally pretty enjoyable. The horn is used much more frequently than in the UK and Australia and is usually just to let you know they are there rather than being aggressive. Watch out for speed cameras, especially in small towns where the limit is usually 50km/h, and familiarise yourself with the motorway toll options. If you don’t have an automatic Telepass in your car you will need to choose the payment lane. 

This southern Italy itinerary includes lots of delicious food and drink, incredible beaches, gorgeous little towns, and a few cities. 

Day 1-2 Campania 

Fly into Naples (Napoli), grab a rental car/camper , and head into the city. Though Naples often gets a bad rep, it’s actually a fantastic city to visit with a beautiful historic centre. And more importantly, it is the original home of pizza. 

If you do nothing else during your stay in Naples, try at least one margherita pizza. Named after Queen Margherita who loved the dish during a visit in 1889. You will also find incredible mozzarella which originates from the region and delicious limoncello amongst many other delightful treats. 

Naples highlights 

• Visit the Castel Nuovo (a medieval castle)
• The Catacombs of San Gennaro (an underground paleo-Christian burial and worship site)
• Take a pizza-making course 
• Stroll the Lungomare (the seaside promenade) 
• Visit Naples National Archaeological Museum
• Explore the main street of Spaccanapoli and the surrounding lanes
• Eat a margherita pizza, mozzarella and drink limoncello

Where to Stay in Naples 

Budget –  Terrazza Partenopea has en suite rooms with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a fridge, located in the Spanish neighbourhood. 

Mid-Range –  Toledo Boutique Rooms is a new accommodation with modern rooms. Centrally located with friendly staff. 

Luxury –  Relais sul Mare is located on the promenade in a historic building overlooking the Gulf of Naples. Parking is available nearby for an additional charge. 

Campsites – There is an area di sosta with water and waste facilities at Parking IPM on Viale Colli Aminei 27. It has 24-hour security and is very centrally located – an easy bus to the main sights. 

Day 3-6 Puglia

Puglia is such a gorgeous region with white-washed hilltop towns, stunning beaches and fantastic red wine. If you have lots of time, then I recommend heading all the way down to Lecce, Otranto and Gallipoli and the tip of the heel. If not then follow the itinerary below. 

Polignano a Mare 

It is just over 3 hours from Naples to the coastal town of Polignano a Mare by car. Located on the rocky coastline of Valle d’Itria, it’s a beautiful spot with striking white buildings perched on limestone cliffs. The town is popular for its picturesque beaches and it has also become a favourite with cliff divers. The main beach of Cala Porto is the setting for an annual cliff diving competition. 

Polignano a Mare highlights 

• Swim at Cala Porto (also known as Lama Monachile)
• Have an aperitivo in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II
• Eat at the much-photographed Grotta Palazzese (a restaurant within a cave overlooking the sea)
• Get the best views of the beach from Terrazza Santo Stefano

You can spend the night in Polignano a Mare but I suggest continuing on your south Italy itinerary to Ostuni (around 40 minutes drive) and using this as a base for the Puglia portion of this road trip. 

Known as ‘Citta Bianca’ (white city), Ostuni is a maze of cobbled streets and lanes perched on a hill.  It really is a gorgeous city with white-washed buildings decorated with colourful flowers and lovely views out over the Puglian countryside. 

Ostuni highlights 

• Wander the narrow lanes and discover lovely bars, restaurants and shops at every turn 
• Visit 15th Century Gothic Ostuni Cathedral 
• Admire the views of the olive groves below and out to the Adriatic 
• Walk along the city walls 

Where to stay in Ostuni

There are some great places to stay in the centre of Ostuni such as  Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & SPA , however, for this southern Italy road trip, I recommend staying just outside the city in a masseria. A masseria is an old farmhouse (usually an olive farm) that has been converted into accommodation. Most have pools, fabulous restaurants and are an incredibly relaxing way to spend a few days in Puglia. 

Budget – There aren’t many budget masserias, so if you’re looking for cheaper accommodation try Casa In Pietra , located in the historic centre. The air-conditioned apartment has a kitchen and one bedroom. 

Mid-Range/Luxury –  Masseria Le Carrube  is one of the best places I’ve stayed in Italy. The old olive press forms the centrepiece of the hotel’s excellent (vegetarian) restaurant and the white walls are draped in purple Bougainvillea. It has two idyllic pools surrounded by olive groves.

Masseria Cervarolo is a traditional farm with restored 16th-century trulli (typical Puglian stone houses with conical roofs). 6km from Ostuni, The Masseria’s grounds include an outdoor swimming pool and an ancient chapel.

Campsites – Agriturismo Salinola offers parking on the grounds of the property with the use of the facilities (including a swimming pool and playground) included in the price and access to the restaurant for breakfast and dinner. 

Read our guide to the best things to do in Puglia.

Alberobello

The next day head to Alberobello . If you can, depart early for the 40-minute drive to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is known for its many trulli. You’ll notice lots of tour buses rolling up throughout the morning full of tourists, so the earlier you arrive here the better. 

Alberobello highlights 

• Take a stroll and admire the uniqueness of this town 
• Visit Trullo Sovrano – the only two-storey trullo, home to a heritage museum
• See the Sant’Antonio Church
• Visit “Il Trullo più piccolo ” – the smallest trullo.
• See Trullo Siamese – two connected trulli 

Stay in a trullo in Alberobello

Drive 20 minutes from Alberobello to Cisternino for lunch. This is another beautiful whitewashed hill town and one of Italy’s ‘Borghi più Belli’ (most beautiful towns). 

Cisternino highlights 

• Admire the views from Piazza Garibaldi
• Eat bombette (‘little bombs’ of rolled meat and cheese)
• Have a drink in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele

After spending the final night at your masseria, get up early and drive to Tropea in Calabria. It’s a 4 and half-hour drive, with a few optional detours. 

Check out our three-day Puglia itinerary for more detail.  

Punta Prosciutto

If you fancy a bit of time on the beach, head southwest to Punta Prosciutto . This is a gorgeous long sandy beach with crystal clear water. The large majority of the beach is free, but there is a lido section if you want umbrellas and deck chairs. There are a few small bars if you’re after a coffee, snack or lunch but the rest of the beach is pretty untouched. It’s idyllic. (This will add an hour and 30 minutes to the driving time)

Alternatively, head north to Matera . Matera is the city of caves and is a Unesco World Heritage Site. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world. You may also recognise it from James Bond – No Time To Die. 

Matera highlights

• Visit Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario (a typical cave dwelling)
• Wander the narrow streets
• Take a historic walking tour and learn about the city’s fascinating past
• Visit Santa Maria di Idris (a cave church)
• Check out Casa Noha – a multimedia exhibit that tells the history of the city 

You can also spend the night in Matera in a Cave hotel, and add a day onto your Italian road trip.

Day 7-10 Calabria

If you’re heading straight to Tropea, then a good midway stop is Roseto Capo Spulico. This is a coastal town with an impressive castle right on the water. 

Tropea is a popular Italian holiday destination, known for Santa Maria dell’Isola Monastery – a medieval church perched on top of a rocky cliff surrounded by the shimmering water of the Mediterranean. There are some excellent restaurants in the historic town centre and beautiful beaches. It’s also a short boat ride from here to the volcanic island of Stromboli.

Tropea Highlights 

• Visit Santuario di Santa Maria dell’Isola di Tropea 
• Eat Nduja sausage and red onion
• Take a day trip to Stromboli – a volcanic island fringed with black sand (and a still active volcano)
• Wander the historic centre 
• Take a boat trip and snorkel at Capo Vaticano
• Enjoy a dip at the beautiful beach

Where to Stay in Tropea

Budget –  Donnaciccina is located in the pedestrian centre of Tropea, 400m from the sea. Comfortable country-style rooms have air conditioning and balconies. 

Mid-Range – We had a great stay at Residenza RoMa . 500m from the beach and 700m from the town centre, this small and friendly accommodation offers elegant and air-conditioned rooms, each with an outdoor area and a modern shared lounge area. 

Luxury –  Villa Paola is set in a 16th-century convent overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. With an outdoor pool, sun terrace and garden, and elegant rooms, the 5-star property is a luxurious place to stay in Tropea. 

Campsites – You can’t get a much better camper spot than Da Ciccio Parking , right next to the beach and a short walk from the Old Town. Next door Camping Marina del Convento has pitches for tents, cars and caravans. Some with sea views. 

Find accommodation in Tropea

Spend two nights in Tropea and then drive onto Scilla . Less frequented than Tropea, we absolutely loved this town. With the fortress – Castello Ruffo – in the centre, the beach resort of Marina Grande to the west and the quaint fishing village of Chianelea to the east, it’s a wonderful place to spend a few days. 

Scilla Highlights

• Watch the fishermen search for swordfish in their impressive tall ships (or join them for a day of fishing)
• Visit Castello Ruffo
• Eat swordfish 
• Wander the narrow lanes of Chianalea – one of the ‘Borghi più belli d’Italia’ – ‘most beautiful villages in Italy’.

Where to stay in Scilla

Budget –  Hotel Scilla is set in Scilla’s centre, a 10-minute walk from the sea. It offers free parking and free Wi-Fi. Rooms have air conditioning, some with a balcony. Breakfast is included in the rate. 

Mid-Range – We absolutely loved B&B Chianalea 54 . It’s on a pedestrian street so you will need to park your car at the port and walk along the narrow lane to get there, but it’s totally worth it. It has lovely views from the balconies, and you can have your breakfast served here. 

Luxury – Set right on the water, the large terraces at La Veduta have exceptional views. A delicious breakfast is included in the rate.

Campsites – There isn’t a campsite in Scilla but there are some nearby such as Il Tracciolino .

Find accommodation in Scilla

Road trip option: From here you can continue on to Reggio Calabria and take a ferry to Sicily, adding a Sicily road trip to this itinerary. You ideally want an additional week or more for this.

Day 11 Maratea, Basilicata

Head north to the region of Basilicata. It’s a 3 hour drive to the commune of Maratea, known as the Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea. There are two sections to this town, the historic old town on the hill and the port down by the water.

Maratea Highlights

• Admire the statue of Cristo Redentore – the second biggest in the world, after Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil 
• Swim/relax at one of the rocky beaches such as Spiaggia Marina di Castrocucco
• Enjoy gelato at Gelateria Emilio at the port 
• Wander the historic centre of the old town 

Where to stay in Maratea

Budget –  B&B da AnnaMaria is located close to the historic centre but in a quiet area. Offering beautiful views and a garden, rooms have air conditioning and free WIFI. 

Mid-Range –  Hotel Ristorante Borgo La Tana is a 10-minute walk from L’Agnola Beach and an 8 minute drive from the historic centre. We enjoyed our stay here and the hotel has great facilities including an outdoor pool, fitness and wellness facilities, as well as free parking. There is a restaurant serving Italian cuisine and Basilicatan specialities and breakfast is served on the terrace in the summer months.

Luxury – The 5-star Santavenere Hotel has its own private beach, 250m from the property, as well as swimming pools, a wellness centre and three restaurants. It’s 3km from the centre of Maratea and operates a free shuttle service.

If you want to stay in the old town, then La Locanda Delle Donne Monache is an excellent choice, set in a beautiful building that is an ex-convent. It has an outdoor pool, cocktail bar and garden. 

Day 12-14 The Amalfi Coast, Campania

Departing Maratea, you are heading to your final destination of the trip – the Amalfi Coast . This is one of the most popular destinations in Italy for international tourists and it’s easy to see why – beautiful cliff-side towns and villages overlook the Mediterranean, connected by narrow roads with sheer drops into the water below. This is an expensive destination, filled with high-end hotels and fine-dining restaurants. However, it is possible to do it on a moderate budget . 

Amalfi Coast Highlights

• You can’t come to the Amalfi Coast without visiting Positano, the much-photographed hillside town. Have an aperitivo overlooking the beach and dinner at one of the lovely sea-view restaurants. 
• Take a trip to the famous island of Capri
• Visit the mountaintop town of Ravello
• Hire a boat and admire the Amalfi Coast from the water 
• Hike the 6.5km Path of the Gods 
• Spend some time in the town of Amalfi, and admire the Amalfi Cathedral
• Take a day trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum 

Driving on the Amalfi Coast

Hopefully, by this point on your Southern Italy road trip, you are feeling confident enough with driving to tackle the narrow roads of the Amalfi Coast. Locals will drive fast, but take your time on the windy roads and enjoy the incredible views! During your time here, if you don’t feel like driving, there is also a bus that connects the towns and villages, so you can leave your car at your accommodation. There is also a ferry between some of the larger towns such as Amalfi and Salerno. 

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast 

Positano is a beautiful place to stay but can be very expensive. I love the village of Praiano, located between Amalfi and Positano, which has some lovely accommodation, restaurants and two rocky beaches. Personally, I would avoid staying in Sorrento, which is very touristy and where cruise ships come in.

Budget – There isn’t a huge amount of budget accommodation on the Amalfi Coast, but there are a few hostels and 3 star hotels. Hotel Villa Bellavista is a great family-run hotel in Praiano with air-conditioned rooms and an Italian-style breakfast.

Mid-Range – I would go back to Villa Il Frantoio in a heartbeat. Set in a 17th-century olive press, the family-run accommodation in Praiano has the most incredible views of Positano, Praiano and the water – particularly from the pool and sun terrace. All rooms have a sea-view balcony or terrace. Access is up a steep staircase and you will need to park your car nearby (EUR 12 per day), but it’s totally worth it. 

Luxury –   Hotel Eden Roc Suites has incredible views of Positano. There is a pool, a spa and gym, as well as a restaurant and sun terrace.

Ultra Luxury – Considered one of the best hotels in the world, the luxurious 5-star San Pietro di Positano has a private beach and a Michelin-starred restaurant. There are two bars, a tennis court, a pool and a spa. Parking is free, along with a free shuttle bus into Positano. It’s very expensive to stay here, but if you can afford it, this is the place to stay in Positano. 

Find accommodation on the Amalfi Coast

On your final day, drive back to Naples for your flight home. 

How to Extend Your Southern Italy Road Trip

If you have more time, you could add one of the following:

From Calabria, take the ferry across to Sicily. You can easily spend a few weeks here exploring the island, its beautiful beaches and excellent cuisine.

From the Amalfi Coast, continue north to Rome and end your trip here with a few days in the city. Read our suggested Rome itinerary here .

As mentioned above, spend a day or two in Matera after departing Puglia and before reaching Calabria.

Northern Italy Road Trip

If you have lots of time you can add a northern Italy road trip before or after this trip. Read our suggested itinerary here .

How long do I need for a Southern Italy road trip?

Ideally two weeks or more. In two weeks you can explore a few of the regions in Southern Italy. If you have more time you can travel at a more relaxed pace, spend longer in each destination and add a few additional stops.

What is the best time of year to visit the south of Italy?

Spring, Summer and Autumn are all great times to travel in Southern Italy. In the summer you will have the highest temperatures but also the biggest crowds. In the shoulder seasons, you can enjoy quieter beaches while still having warm weather.

Where are the best beaches in Italy?

Italy’s best beaches are considered to be on the islands of Sicily and  Sardinia , as well as in the Southern Italian regions of  Puglia  and Calabria. Though there are lovely beaches all over the country.

What are the most beautiful towns in Southern Italy?

The hilltop towns of Ostuni and Cisternino in Puglia are incredibly beautiful along with the famous town of Alberobello. Tropea and Scilla in Calabria are gorgeous beachside towns with stunning architecture and the Amalfi Coast is full of lovely little towns.

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This is excellent! I might add a week in Sardinia, this is in October. Recommendations?

Have a lovely time!

Check out our Sardinia itinerary here: https://www.alovelyplanet.com/sardinia-road-trip-1-week-itinerary/

Is there Any buses that make the South Route of Italy With hotels included?

I’m sure there are, but I haven’t travelled the route by bus. It might be worth looking at one of the tour companies like G Adventures or Intrepid and see what they offer. Have a great trip!

Planning a trip somewhere so with Italy in mind I have a couple of questions if you have the time. (1) Is a camper van practical for the entirety of the southern trip or would it be more cumbersome / impractical for some locations. It is assumed that camping options are not always available or close enough to the ‘sights’ to make it worthwhile. (2) Is rental accommodations consistently readily available or difficult to obtain certain times of the year? Thanks.

we travelled the south of Italy with a campervan and had a lovely time. However you are correct in that you cannot always park centrally, so its handy to bring bicycles too so that you can easily cycle into the city/town centres. Also be aware than many of the roads in the historic centres are narrow and have low bridges so it’s not always possible to drive a camper there. I think it really depends on how you prefer to travel as there are pros and cons to both. I like having everything in one place in the camper and not having to unpack. However you can usually stay more centrally in a holiday rental or hotel. Have a lovely trip.

Hello, my husband and i are planning a trip ton south italy for about 3 weeks by our camper. We are concerned about safety issues there, are there theft cases often, what should we care about, and where is safe to stay with camper, thank you very much

We didn’t have any issues, but it’s definitely worth doing some research on where to stay before you go. Many of the camp sites have security which might be preferable over the free area di sosta camping spots. I usually refer to these websites for general safety advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/safety-and-security https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/italy Have a great trip!

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Wonderful Time in Italy We were covered from the moment we landed in Rome. The drivers were great, the connections were flawless, and it was well-planned a...

Welcome to the enchanting Southern Italy region, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable experience. Embark on an adventure like no other with our carefully curated South Italy itineraries. From the sun-kissed Amalfi Coast to the ancient ruins of Pompeii and the historic charm of Naples, these five itineraries promise to unveil the hidden treasures of this captivating part of Italy.

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Itinerary #1: Fascinating Southern Italy: Naples, Sorrento and Capri

Experience this fabulous 10-day journey through Southern Italy, where the charming towns of the Amalfi Coast are waiting to be discovered.

On day one in Naples, you will meet your private driver at the airport and head to the hotel for check-in. Day two offers a guided tour of Naples.

Day three is dedicated to visiting Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. On day four , you'll be picked up for a private walking tour of Sorrento. Optional food tasting is available. After the tour, your driver takes you to Positano for check-in and free time.

Day five offers leisure time in Positano, a picturesque town on the Amalfi Coast. Day six is an exciting sail along the Amalfi Coast, stopping at beautiful bays for swimming and exploring grottoes and caves.

Day seven takes you to Capri by hydrofoil, where you'll have free time in the afternoon. Day eight includes an exclusive private boat tour around Capri.

On day nine , your guide will accompany you through Anacapri and Capri town centres. You can visit Augustus Gardens or take a chairlift up to Mt. Solaro. The tour ends around lunchtime.

Finally, on day ten , you'll have a private transfer to the airport for your preferred afternoon flight, concluding your unforgettable Amalfi Coast and Capri experience. Read more .

Naples, Italy @ Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

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Giardini di Augusto in Capri, Italy © Natalia Macheda/Shutterstock

Itinerary #2: Best of South Italy: Rome, Naples, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

Colourful villages draped over steep cliffs, cities steeped in culture and history, crystal-clear warm waters and cities frozen in time – South Italy has a lot to offer. Experience it for yourself with this exciting Southern Italy trip .

Day one starts with your arrival at Rome International Airport, where you'll be greeted and transported to your hotel in the city. Day two grants you free time to explore Rome at your leisure after breakfast.

Day three is followed by check-out and a high-speed train ride to Naples. Later, a private guide will accompany you on a tour of Naples.

On day four , you have the freedom to explore Naples on your own. Day five takes you on a fascinating day trip from Naples to Pompeii.

Day six brings an exciting excursion to Mount Vesuvius, where you can hike to the summit and enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples. The day continues with a guided tour of Sorrento.

Day seven promises an unforgettable trip to Capri Island. On day eight , embark on a scenic Amalfi Coast tour, discovering the picturesque towns of Positano, Ravello, Scala, and Amalfi. Absorb the local history and culture during this exploration.

Enjoy the morning at your leisure in Sorrento on day nine before heading back to Rome via train. On the final day , after breakfast, you will be transferred to Rome International Airport for your onward flight. Read more .

Positano, Italy. Amalfi Coast © iacomino FRiMAGES/Shutterstock

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Sorrento, Italy @ Shutterstock

Itinerary #3: Wonders of Rome and the Amalfi Coast

From the narrow streets of Rome to the colourful houses perched on the Sorrento Peninsula, the charm and elegance of Southern Italy are seductive. On this unique 8-day trip , you will experience spectacular sites and breathtaking views in both iconic destinations.

Day one begins with your arrival at Rome International Airport, where you'll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy a hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Rome.

On day two , the tour starts at the Spanish Steps and continues to the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. In the afternoon, visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel.

Day three takes you to the Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater. On day four , board a train to Naples and embark on a full-day historical tour of the city.

Day five is dedicated to the enchanting island of Capri. Take a boat ride around the island, visiting stunning caves and coves.

Day six takes you to Pompeii, where you'll explore the ancient ruins frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Return to Sorrento for a leisurely afternoon.

Day seven brings a breathtaking road trip along the Amalfi Coast, where you'll witness some of Italy's most captivating scenery and make stops at various points of interest.

On day eight , bid farewell to Italy as you're transferred to Naples Airport for your departure flight. Read more .

Night view over Fountain di Trevi in Rome © trabantos/Shutterstock

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Inside the old Colosseum (Coliseum), Rome, Italy © Viacheslav Lopatin/Shutterstock

Itinerary #4: An Italian dream trip: Rome, Sicily and the Amalfi Coast

Savour la dolce vita on this fantastic 11-day trip to the real Italy . Day one welcomes you to Rome, where a private transfer takes you to the hotel.

Day two starts with breakfast, followed by an exciting treasure hunt guided by a private expert. On day three , enjoy a leisurely morning exploring Rome. In the afternoon, take a private transfer to Campo de’ Fiori for a cookery class in an aristocratic family's apartment, followed by a delightful dinner on the terrace.

Day four takes you to Sicily. After breakfast, catch a flight to Catania. Explore the Neapolis Archaeological Park and the historic city centre in the afternoon.

Day five begins with a half-day guided tour of Noto. Day six includes a visit to a renowned workshop in Modica to learn about the city's chocolate-making history.

Day seven takes you to the iconic Mount Etna, where you'll explore inactive volcanic craters and enjoy a wine tasting and lunch at a prestigious cellar. On day eight , travel to the Amalfi Coast.

Day nine features a visit to Capri for a lesson in making limoncello. Day ten brings a full-day tour of the Amalfi Coast, starting in Ravello and passing through the 'Iron Valley' to Amalfi.

Day eleven marks the end of the journey. Enjoy some leisure time before a private transfer to Rome's Leonardo Da Vinci International Airport. Read more .

The stage of Taormina's Greek Theater with the Etna in the background, Taormina, Sicily © K. Roy Zerloch/Shutterstock

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Amalfi, Italy © proslgn/Shutterstock

Itinerary #5: Dive into Apulia - cuisine & culture

Take this 10-day adventure through the southern Italian region of Apulia with a rental car.

Day one begins with your arrival at Bari Airport, where you'll pick up a rental car and check in at your hotel. Day two takes you to Castel del Monte. Later, return to Bari for a delightful 3-hour guided street food tour.

On day three , set off in your rental car to visit the beautiful towns of Ostuni and Alberobello. Day four is perfect for beach relaxation between Polignano a Mare and Monopoli.

Day five holds a surprise as you venture into the Reserve, surrounded by olive trees and the scents of Apulian land. Day six takes you to Taranto, the "city of two seas". Explore its ancient centre with noble mansions and underground gems.

On day seven , enjoy a 2-hour boat tour in Taranto marina, witnessing the land of dolphins and whales, followed by a delightful aperitif on board. Day eight leads to Lecce, where you can join a walking street food tour with a guide and further explore hidden gems and historic alleys.

Day nine brings a delightful cooking class with a professional chef, learning the ancient art of homemade orecchiette and indulging in local products and drinks.

On day ten , return to Bari Airport to drop off your rental car, bidding farewell to the enchanting region of Puglia. Read more .

Scenic sight in Lecce, Puglia (Apulia), southern Italy.

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Torre Guaceto, Puglia @ Shutterstock

You might also want to browse our customisable Italy itineraries or talk to our local Italy experts .

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updated 21.03.2024

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The Best 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Planning a trip to southern Italy? You’ve come to the right place. This is the ultimate 10 days in southern Italy itinerary.

Southern Italy is a captivating region known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. It boasts ancient ruins, picturesque coastal towns, and –best of all — delectable pizza.

Southern Italy offers all the pleasures of la dolce vita you’ll find elsewhere in Italy. But it has a slightly more Latin twist. For centuries, it was shaped by Arab, Greek, and Spanish domination.

At its most basic, southern Italy consists of four regions: Campania, Calabria, Puglia, and Basilicata. There are also the islands of Sardinia and Sicily, worlds apart in their own right.

The south boasts a rich array of art and architecture and sites that you simply won’t find in northern Italy — the whitewashed towns and olive groves of Puglia, the sensual drama of Naples, the stunningly beautiful of Capri, or the ancient eerie allure of Matera.

On top of that, you’ll find ancient Greco-Roman ruins, dazzling Baroque churches and towns, and Byzantine sites.

The food is also insanely good in southern Italy. It’s one of the great joys of visiting. Naples is the birthplace of pizza. In general, there’s a strong emphasis on fresh farm to table ingredients and seafood.

I just spent almost 3 weeks in southern Italy. So, I am ready to hand over the best 10 day southern Italy itinerary with some must know tips.

Overview of 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Here’s a snapshot glance of what you can see with 10 days in southern Italy.

Day 1 : Naples

• Day 2 : Pompeii & Vesuvius or Capri
• Day 3 : Positano
• Day 4 : Amalfi & Ravello
• Day 5 : Matera
• Day 6 : Matera, stop in Martina Franca on the way to Ostuni
• Day 7 : Ostuni
• Day 8 : Polignano a Mare & Monopoli
• Day 9 : Alberobello
• Day 10 : Lecce

More Time ?

If you have more than 10 days in southern Italy, you could spend more time in Naples at the outset or more time in Puglia at the end of your trip.

The towns of Trani, Brindisi, or Bari in Puglia are all well worth visiting. You could also head further south to the sizzling island of Sicily.

If you want to spend a bit more time on the glamorous Amalfi Coast instead, here’s a way to tweak this southern Italy itinerary:

• Day 2 : Pompeii & Vesuvius
• Day 3 : Capri day trip from Naples
• Day 4 : Positano
• Day 5 : Amalfi Town & Ravello
• Day 6 : Matera
• Day 7 : Matera
• Day 8 : Polignano a Mare
• Day 10 : Ostuni & Monopoli

Bases & Tours For A 10 Day Southern Italy Itinerary

For this southern Italy itinerary, I would recommend 4 bases. You could base for 2 days in Naples, 2 days in either Positano or Ravello, 2 days in Matera, and 4 days in Puglia.

For Puglia, I think the best bases are Ostuni, Monopoli, or Polignano al Mare. They are centrally located, have cute centro storicos , and have train stations if you need them. If you are visiting in summer and want a beach, you might opt for Monopoli.

If you don’t moving around a bit more, you could also stay in a trulli in Alberobello for a 1-2 nights just to have the experience.

Puglia is fairly easy to drive around. Just don’t plunge into the centro storico of any city or town. I would pick up a car on the way out of the Amalfi Coast. Before that, I would use trains, private transfers, buses, or ferries to get around.

Best Hotels:

Here are some hotel recommendations, based on hotels I’ve stayed in or checked out myself.

Naples : Eurostars Hotel Excelsior , T he Britannique , G rand Hotel Vesuvio

Positano : Palazzo Mur a ,   L a Sirenuse ,  I l San Pietro ,  H otel Poseidon

Ravello : Hotel Caruso ,  Hotel Villa Cimbrone ,  Palazzo Avino ,  V illa Maria

Matera : Sextantio Le Grotte , Aquatio Cave Hotel & Spa , Palazzo Gattini

Polignano a Mare : Hotel Grotta Palazzese , Giovi Relais

Ostuni : Hotel Relais La Sommita , Paragon 700 , Masseria Le Carrube

Monopoli : Hotel Don Ferrante , Palazzo Indelli

Alberobello : La Mandorla Luxury Trullo , Trullo Essenza-Trulli Anti Charme & Relax , Romantic Trulli

You might also consider staying in a “masseria” in the Puglia region. They are fortified farmhouses that have been transformed into luxury hotels with large rooms.

I stayed at Masseria Il Melograno (near Monopoli) and Masseria San Domenic o (near Ostuni) when I was touring Puglia. San Domenico is one of the world’s best small luxury hotels and was just stunning!

Best Tours:

Here are some of the top tours you will want to book in advance:

• half day tour in Naples with an archaeologist
• Pompeii entrance ticket
• Amalfi Coast boat tour
• Path of the Gods guided walking tour
• Amalfi vespa tour
• Matera tour with cave visit
• Alberobello walking tour with trulli visit
• Ostuni walking tour
• Lecce walking tour

10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

This south of Italy road trip starts in Naples and ends in Lecce.

Naples should be the starting point for any trip through southern Italy. From the airport, you can taxi or book a private transfer to your hotel.

Naples is the region’s capital and a vibrant, sometimes overwhelming, city. Naples lives by its own rules and has no discernible tourist gloss. It can be a a chaotic assault on the senses.

So, you’ll have to take the gritty with the pretty. But, with its long list of marvels, Naples will please those looking for culture, history, and pizza. For every dirty street, there’s a sumptuous Baroque church.

With only a day in the city, you could follow my one day in Naples itinerary .

I advise spending most of your time in the historic center around Spaccanapoli. The old center is teeming with tiny lanes, ancient palazzi, pizzerias, and ornate churches.

Some of the must see churches include Gesu Nuovo, the Cloister of Santa Chiara , Sansevero Chapel, and the Duomo di Napoli .

Sansevero is a stunning over-the-top Baroque chapel filled with exquisite Baroque sculpture. It’s a must see, but always sold out.

Be sure to  b ook a timed entry ticket  online well in advance. Alternatively, if tickets are sold out, you can  book a walking tour  that includes a visit to the chapel.

In Capodimonte and the National Archaeological Museum , Naples has two of Europe’s greatest museums. Art lovers should go to the Capodimonte for its large cache of top rate Renaissance and Baroque art. Those going to Pompeii should get a preview of its treasures at the archaeological museum.

In high season (May to September), I advise  booking a skip the line ticket for the archaeological. museum. I took this  private tour  of the museum with an archaeologist and loved it! 

Day 2: Pompeii & Vesuvius

On day 2, visit Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius from Naples. In Pompeii, explore the well-preserved ancient city buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. 

Walk through homes, baths, theaters, temples, a brothel and the forum. Don’t miss the beautifully restored frescoes in the House of Menander, the House of the Vettii, and the Villa of Mysteries.

Stroll along the historic streets, imagining life in this bustling city over two thousand years ago. 

After Pompeii, head to Mount Vesuvius. The imposing volcano overlooks the Bay of Naples.

Embark on a hike along the trail and enjoy breathtaking views. Reach the crater’s edge and witness the power of nature that once engulfed Pompeii.

Vesuvius is also known for its wineries. And you can book a winery tour and lunch there.

At a minimum, for day 2, you’ll need to book a  P ompeii entrance ticket , a Mt. Vesuvius entrance ticket , and perhaps a  private transfer to Pompeii .

I also advise booking a  3 hour tour to Pompeii with an archaeologis t  to get the complete historical backdrop. You can also book a  f ull day tour to both Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius . 

For more information and must know tips for visiting, here’s my  complete guide to visiting Pompeii .

Day 2 Alternative: Capri

If you’ve already been to Pompeii or just prefer a scenic island, spend day 2 in Capri. You can take the ferry from Naples or book a Capri day trip from Naples .

Capri is one of the most dazzling and seductive islands in the Mediterranean. You’ll be delighted with Capri’s soaring cliffs, shimmering emerald water, whitewashed towns, and historic landmarks.

Capri has two adorable towns, Capri Town and Anacapri. Capri Town is the more glamorous of the duo.

In Capri Town, you can go upscale shopping on Via Cammarelle. Or hike along the coastal trail or up to Villa Jovis.

In Anacapri, you can visit the beautiful Villa San Michele, hike to belvederes or tour the Blue Grotto. Capri is also beautiful as seen from the water, so a boat tour or visit to the Blue Grotto is magical.

Here are some of the tours you might consider in Capri:

• boat tour of Capri
• 6 hour Blue Grotto visit and walking tour
• private boat tour with Blue Grotto
• cooking class with wine pairing
• tour of Capri Town, Anacapri & Blue Grotto

For more information and tips, you can check out my 2 days in Capri itinerary .

Day 3: Positano

One day 3, head to the pretty-in-punk pastel town of Positano. You can book a private transfer from Naples to get there.

Start your day in Positano with a stroll along Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront. 

Take in the vibrantly colored umbrellas and crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. If you’re up for it, take a refreshing dip in the sea or rent a lounge chair and relax on the sun-kissed sands.

If you enjoy hiking for views, you will want to hike the the Path of the Gods. This scenic trail offers panoramic vistas of the Amalfi Coast and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. You can do it yourself and book a private transfer to Bomerano (where the trail starts) or take a guided tour . 

After taking in the vistas from the Path of the Gods, descend back to Positano. Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at one of the local trattorias or cafes.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Admire its beautiful dome and stunning Byzantine-style mosaics. 

Explore the charming alleys and narrow streets of Positano. They’re lined with boutique shops, artisanal craft stores, and local art galleries.

Positano is known for its stylish clothing and beautiful ceramics. Pottery spills out on virtually every nook and cranny of the town. 

The best views of the sea-tumbling houses are from the top of Via Christoforo and Via Pasitea.

As the sun begins to set, find a spot at one of the cliffside bars or restaurants with panoramic terraces. Sip on a refreshing cocktail or sample some ice cold limoncello as you watch the sunset.

For dinner, reserve at a restaurant with cliffside views. Options include La Sponda at La Sirenuse Hotel, La Terrace in Hotel Eden Roc, Maestro’s in Villa Treville, or Il Tridente at Hotel Poseidon.

Day 4: Amalfi & Ravello

On day 4, visit the towns of Amalfi and Ravello. You can take the bus, the ferry, or go on a guided tour from Positano .

Like Positano, Amalfi Town is carved into a cliff and houses seem to tumble down to the sea.

The main attraction in Amalfi is its gorgeous cathedral. It’s a heady blend of Byzantine, Romanesque, and Moorish styles.

The exterior is covered in mosaics and has a loggia with Moorish arches. A dramatic steep staircase leads to the entrance through the Cloister of Paradise.

The cloister is lovely — filled with frescos, statuary and ancient sarcophagi from Paestum. From there, you can wade through the reliquaries and artifacts in the Diocesan Museum and inspect the cathedral itself. For more information, you can check out my complete  guide to Amalfi Cathedral .

If you are interested in ancient trades, you can also check out Amalfi’s Paper Museum. Amalfi was a major producer of handmade paper in medieval times.

The museum is housed in a 13th century paper mill. Guides will demonstrate how paper was made using traditional methods and machinery.

Have a walk through the piazzas and charming back streets of Amalfi. Then, head up to Ravello.

You can hike up via the Valley dei Ferrierre trail or the ever-so-steep Ravello Challenge. Or you can take a bus or taxi.

Ravello is a tiny town. But it’s chock full of high quality ceramic shops. It has a lovely cathedral and two magnificent medieval villas.

Villa Rufolo is in the Piazza del Duomo next to the cathedral. Its main draw is its magnificent gardens. From the Wagner Terrace, you have stunning views of the Amalfi Coast.

Villa Cimbrone is even better. It’s the epitome of romance.

The grounds are filled with crumbling follies, ancient statuary, rose gardens, and wisteria pergolas. Its belvedere, the Terrace of Infinity, offers up the best panoramic vistas on the entire Amalfi Coast.

For more information on these two towns, you can check out my one day in Amalfi Town itinerary and my 2 days in Ravello itinerary .

Day 5: Matera

On day 5, pick up your rental car and head to Matera. Matera is one of Italy’s most alluring sights, thanks to its sassi cave dwellings. It’s the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city at 9,000 years old.

The town looks and feels ancient. It was definitely one of my favorite spots in all of southern Italy.

There are approximately 3,000 cave houses and 150 cave churches. Once the “shame” of Italy, they are now renovated and a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can even stay in a cave hotel!

The best way to see it all is to book a walking tour of the sassi . You can also book a private tour or a food and wine tour .

If you want to do it on your own, the two sassi districts (Barisano and Caveoso) can be accessed from several points in town including from Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Piazza Duomo, and Piazza San Francesco. You’ll see signs. The main drag is Strada Panoramic dei Sassi.

You’ll also want to visit some cave churches. The most impressive is the 10th century Santa Maria d’Idris.

It’s perched on a hill and offers up great views of the sassi . Inside, there are some lovely medieval frescos to admire.

Just south of the church is a cave museum, the Casa-Grotto di Vico Solaria. You can even see the “mangers” for the donkeys and pigs that once lived inside.

You can also check out some of Matera’s other museums: MUSMA (contemporary scupture), Muse Nazioinale Ridola (archaeology finds), or Museo d’Arte Medieval e Moderna (sacred and contemporary art).

In the evening, take a leisurely walk along Via Ridola. It’s a charming street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Stop for dinner at a cozy trattoria and sample the local dishes like orecchiette pasta, lamb, and delicious cheeses. I had delicious meals at Baccanti and Ristorante Burro Salato.

Day 6: Matera To Puglia

Spend your morning in Matera. Begin your day with a visit to the Matera Cathedral. The entrance is in a side street.

Marvel at its impressive architecture, adorned with intricate details and frescoes. There’s even a cave-like nativity scene. And you can climb the bell tower for great views of the gorge.

Explore the adjacent Piazza Duomo and take in the panoramic views of the Sassi districts from the belvedere.

In the afternoon, head out to the town of Martina Franca on the way to Ostuni in the region of Puglia. It’s about a 1:15 drive from Matera to Martina Franca.

The town is built on a hill overlooking olive groves and has an appealing historic center. It’s dominated by the Palazzo Ducale in Piazza Roma. Another main square is the Piazza Plebiscito, home to a beautiful Baroque church.

Have lunch at Trattoria Sant’Anna or Trattoria Pizzeria del Corso. Then, it’s just a 30 minute drive to Ostuni.

Ostuni is one of Puglia’s most appealing hilltop towns, known as the “White City.” It’s a historic settlement that spans three hilltops.

Settle into your accommodation and take an evening stroll through the city.

It’s a maze-like tangle of up and down streets that you’re sure to get lost in. Head to the scenic viewpoints in Ostuni, such as the Belvedere Santa Lucia or the Terrace of Sant’Oronzo, for breathtaking panoramic views.

Have dinner at Taverna della Gelosia or Osteria Ricanatti.

Day 7: Ostuni & Monopoli

In the morning, visit Ostuni’s Spanish-influenced Gothic cathedral. Marvel at its impressive facade and step inside to admire the beautiful interior with its ornate decorations and stunning frescoes.

You could also visit the Archaeological and Civic Museum. It’s a small museum with some interesting artifacts dating back to Paleolithic times. The must see exhibit is the pregnant “mother of the world,” from 28,000 years ago.

But the real joy of Ostuni is just wandering the whitewashed streets. There are flowers at every turn, even a few cats.

I had a delicious lunch at Cielo. it’a an atmospheric place with whitewashed vaulted ceilings.

In the afternoon, drive to the seaside town of Monopoli. It’s a fascinating seaside town with charming narrow streets, a magnificent cathedral, and some great trattorias.

It’s less touristy and has a more lived in feel than towns like Matera or Albrobello. The Monopoli Cathedral is a real must visit. I took shelter in it during a rainstorm, so got to inspect it pretty closely.

In the early evening, take a stroll along the Lungormare. Admire the classic Apulian blue and red fishing boats. There’s an old defensive tower, which you can climb for views.

Enjoy an aperol spritz in Piazza Garibaldi. Then, grab some fresh seafood at one of Monopoli’s many restaurants. I enjoyed La Locanda Sul Porto and Gaia Osteria Popolare.

READ : One Day In Monopoli Itinerary

Day 8: Polignano a Mare

On day 8, head to Polignano a Mare, a timeless beauty. It’s a picture perfect whitewashed village that seems made entirely of limestone.

The town’s winding streets are lined with flowering plants. The town offers incredible views over the Adriatic Sea.

Via Roma is the main drag. It’s chic and chock full of chic shops, eateries, and gelato shops.

But the back streets are adorable too. You’ll see poems written on some of the walls and steps.

Polignano is best known for the inlets and coves carved into its shoreline.

The most famous of these is right in the center of town, the Lama Monachile Beach. The Grotto Palazzese is a tiny masterpiece that’s home to a cave restaurant and 5 star hotel.

Taking a stroll along the Lungomare Domenico Modugno or the Longomare Cristofero Columbo makes for good viewing. The first one is where you’ll find the famous statue of Volare, the singer songwriter and a Polignano native.

You might consider taking a boat cruise through the coves, a boat cave tour , or a street food tour while in Polignano.

I was in Polignano for a few days so I was able to sample some of its fabulous restaurants. I had fine meals at Osteria dei Mulini, Restaurant Antiche Mura, and Specchie Sant’Oronzo. Even the street food cafe, at Olio su Pane, was delicious.

READ : One Day In Polignano a Mare Itinerary

Day 9: Alberobello

Alberobello is an incredibly unique and picturesque town in Puglia, known for its iconic trulli houses. Trulli are round stone buildings with conical gray slate roofs. Alberobello has over 1500 of them.

If you can ignore the crowds, the town has a real fairytale vibe, almost like a fantasy film set. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before.

The trulli are spread out along the eight streets of the Rione Monte. Some of them are adorned with astrological or astronomical symbols on the roofs.

The best way to see them is from one of the town’s many belvederes. There are especially good views from Belvedere Santa Lucia and from the belvedere on the left of the Piazza del Popolo. You could also book a guided walking tour of the trulli.

Afterward, make your way though the labyrinth of streets of Alberobello. You’ll come across the best known trulli — Trullo Sovrano and the Trullo Siamese.

Be sure to head to the Rione Ain Piccola. It’s a more authentic and less trafficked area with nearly 400 trulli .

Alberobello is also a fun place to take a guided food tour , an e-bike tour with foccacia tasting , or a cooking class .

I had the best focaccia I’ve ever tasted at Enoteca Regionale (made with burnt flour) and learned how to make mozzarella at Mimmo’s trullo.

If you want, you could spend half of the day 9 in Alberobello and half of the day in the cute neighboring town of Locorotondo.

The unique circular town boasts narrow streets, whitewashed houses with sloped roofs called cumerse , and intricate balconies adorned with colorful flowers.

Be sure to see Palazzo Morelli, with its eye catching carved portal. The main church is San Giorgio.

It’s a beautiful Baroque church with an elegant facade and a stunning rose window. Step inside to admire the ornate interior, with its intricate altars and Neapolitan frescoes.

In the Marziolla district, you will find another fascinating collection of trulli .

Day 10: Lecce

Polish off your 10 days in southern Italy with a visit to lavish Lecce. It’s Baroque jewel known as “the Florence of the South.”

It’s also called the “City of Churches” and the “City of Gardens.” To visit the city properly, you can book an architecture tour , zip around on a rickshaw tour , or go on a street food tour .

Lecce is a maze of narrow streets. Its nerve center is Piazza del Duomo.

The square is a stunning architectural ensemble with the magnificent Lecce Cathedral, Palazzo Vescovile (Bishop’s Palace), and the Seminary (which has a beautiful cloister and bell tower). It’s especially lovely in the evening when its lit by floodlights.

The Duomo has an extravagant, highly chiseled facade. It was built by the principal architect of the city’s Baroque transformation, Giuseppe Zimbalo.

If you proceed down Via Vitttorio Emanuele II, you will arrive at Santa Maria del Rosario. It’s Zimbalo’s last and finest work.

The other main square is Piazza Sant’Oronzo to the east. In the southern part of the square, you’ll find the sunken remains of a Roman amphitheater. it was built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century.

At the square’s heart is the Colonna di Sant’Oronzo. You’ll also see two other gems, the 16th century Sedile and the Church of San Marco.

From this square walk north on Via Umberto to see the magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce. It’s the apotheosis of Lecce’s frenzied Baroque architectural style.

Santa Croce showcases intricate carvings, ornate decorations, and a facade adorned with mythical creatures, dragons, angels, and other symbolic motifs. It is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Italy .

In the early evenings, join the crowds at Piazza Sant’Oronzo for an apertivo . Try a glass of Salice Salentino , a renowned and robust local wine, at Caffe Alvino. There are also some good win bars on Via Umberto.

The city brims with rustic restaurants serving up hearty southern Italian food. Check out Crianza or la Vecchia Osteria da Totu.

More Than 10 Days in Southern Italy?

If you have more than 10 days, you have several options.

If you are a city person, I would spend more time in Naples at the outset of your trip. The city takes awhile to get under your skin and there are just so many attractions.

You could also spend more time eating your way through Puglia. The towns of Molfetta, Trani, Brindisi, and Otranto are all well worth visiting.

Another idea is to head further south to Sicily. To do this, you could fly out of Bari Airport or Brindisi Airport to Palermo or Catania.

For ideas on what to do in Sicily, you can check out my blog post on five ways to spend one week in Sicily . I also have itineraries for Syracuse , Trapani , Catania , Taormina , and Palermo .

If you are feeling a bit bushed after 10 days in southern Italy trip, perhaps you just want to lounge on a beach in Cefalu or Taormina.

Alternatively, ruin lusters can explore the island’s fine Greco-Roman ruins in Segesta , the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento , Syracuse Archaeological Park , or the Villa Romano del Casale .

Tips For A 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Here are some other must know tips for spending 10 days in southern Italy.

1. How To Get To Southern Italy

You’ll want to fly into Naples. It has its own international airport, NAP. It’s also known as Capodichino Airport. 

From the airport, you can take a taxi or  book a private transfer  to your hotel. You can also book a  private transfer from Rome , if you fly in there.

Naples also has a major train station that’s well connected to other cities, Napoli Centrale. 

2. When To Visit Southern Italy

The general rule to to avoid July and August. These are the hottest, most expensive, and busiest months.

This is especially true on the island of Capri and in the Amalfi Coast. I was also told Matera can get up to 120 degrees in summer.

Late April/May is a delightful time to visit. Everything is lush, festooned with flowers, and landscapes look like fresco paintings.

The weather stays good until about late October. So, a fall visit is also a good choice.

3. How To Get Around Southern Italy

For the part of your itinerary centered on Naples and the Amalfi Coast, I wouldn’t get a car. I would use the extensive network of buses, trains, and some private transfers.

The road along the Amalfi Coast offers one of Italy’s most famous drives. But the road is difficult, with hairpin turns and heavy traffic. Plus, rental rates are high. I personally wouldn’t want to drive there.

In general, however, the train system in the south isn’t as good as the north. So, once you depart the Amalfi Coast, I think it makes sense to pick up a rental car for the rest of your trip.

Driving in Puglia is pretty straightforward. The roads are reasonably well maintained, except for small rural roads where you will find potholes. And the traffic is less heavy than more popular places like Tuscany.

4. What To Eat In Southern Italy

Southern Italy is a foodie paradise. The region boasts fresh ingredients, sun-ripened produce, bold flavors, and magical herbs.

Naples is the birthplace of pizza. As Julia Roberts said in the movie Eat, Pray, Love , it’s easy to have a “relationship” with it.

Neapolitan pizza has a thin, soft, and slightly chewy crust. The sauce is made from the delicious crushed San Marzano tomatoes.

In the Amalfi Coast, everything is made with lemons — limoncello liqueur, lemon cakes, lemon delight, lemon pasta, and lemon flavored pastries.

The pasta specialities are scialatielli and ravioli caprese . Scialatielli is a type of homemade pasta that is typically served with a flavorful seafood sauce.

You’ll also find an abundance of fish and seafood — mussels, clams, tuna, octopus, shrimp, etc.

In Puglia, the burrata and mozzarella is impossibly smooth and creamy. It’s usually served with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.

You’ll also find some of the freshest vegetables I’ve ever tasted. The zucchini, artichokes, and eggplant are all delicious.

The homemade pasta is to die for. In Puglia, the specialty is orecchiette . It’s a small ear-shaped pasta. It is often served with a variety of sauces, such as broccoli rabe, cherry tomatoes, and anchovies.

Another thing to try is focaccia barese . It’s a delicious variation of the classic Italian flatbread. The bread is generously topped with cherry tomatoes, olives, oregano, and olive oil, creating a burst of flavors in every bite.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 days in southern Italy itinerary. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources.

• 3 day itinerary for Rome
• 5 day itinerary for Rome
• 3 day intinerary for Naples
• 1 day itinerary for Vatican City
• 3 day itinerary for Florence
• 2 day itinerary for Venice
• 1 day itinerary for Milan
• 1 day itinerary for Siena
• One week in Umbria
• 10 days in Italy itinerary
• 10 day itinerary for Tuscany
• 12 ways to spend 1 week in Italy
• 2 weeks in Sicily itinerary

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Last Updated on June 20, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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A breathtaking southern italy itinerary to see the best of italy’s south in a week.

A wonderful Southern Italy itinerary packed with UNESCO world heritage sites, stunning villages and beautiful coastal views! Easy to follow South of Italy road trip itinerary and recommended sto ps.

Southern Italy is one of the most beautiful yet underrated parts of the whole of Italy.

It is a land of shimmering sea and sandy beaches, of charming villages with unexpected architecture and cultural sites of worldwide fame.

However, it is a place still largely ignored by international tourism, that seems to stop around the area of Pompeii or flock to (stunning) Sicily .

We recently went on a road trip in the South of Italy and put a lot of research into its planning.

In this article, I share our best Southern Italy vacation itinerary , packed with the lessons learnt on the road!

This post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

Table of Contents

1 week South Italy itinerary at a glance

Day 1 : Trani and Castel del Monte (from Naples or Bari)

Day 2 : Alberobello, Locorotondo, Martina Franca

Day 3 : Matera

Day 4 : Matera

Day 5 : Paestum and Amalfi Coast

Day 6 : Amalfi Coast

Day 7 : Amalfi coast – return to Rome

How many days to visit Southern Italy?

Southern Italy is a broad term to encompass the whole of the Italian boot South of Rome so it is not possible to give an exact idea duration for a trip there.

Depending on what you want to see, you can easily spend a month here but since this is often not an option for a vacation (I know it wasn’t an option for us!), I selected the places I feel will give you the best experience.

They span across three regions, specifically Puglia, Basilicata and Campania.

This suggested itinerary for Southern Italy can be followed in as little as 4 days (if you don’t stop overnight between Matera and Rome, a 6h drive) and has an ideal length of 7 days .

Use this article to plan your own trip to Italy, pin it for later!

Southern Italy best places to see map

How to get to Southern Italy

The easiest ways to get to the South of Italy are plane and car.

The main gateway airports to the area are:

Bari airport : located in Puglia, the heel of the Italian boot, Bari airport gets a reasonable number of flights from several European countries and it a good getaway for the whole area.

This is a wonderful starting point for this itinerary because, as well as convenient, Bari is incredibly beautiful! You can find idea on things to see in Bari here and you will quickly see what I mean and why you should visit.

Brindisi airport – Located in Puglia again, Brindisi gets flights from other Italian cities and some European locations (mostly Ryanair). Please be advised that especially from some cities, these flights are seasonal.

Naples international airport – Naples has a well-served international airport that puts you in a good position to drive both to the South of Italy or towards Rome.

You can follow this itinerary from any of these airports.

The best way to get around Southern Italy

The best way to travel around the southern regions of Italy is by car .

Unlike the rest of the country, the South of Italy does not have a good train network and having access to a private vehicle is paramount.

You can rent a car in any of the airports mentioned above and my provider of choice is Avis Car Rental.

If you cannot drive, local buses serve most locations but the distances are long and the journey time will eat significantly into your time in the area.

You may have heard that driving in Italy is hard but please, do not let this discourage you! Indeed driving here is very different from what you may be used to back home but you can do it, if you know what to expect. You can find my tips for driving in Italy here.

Suggested itinerary for Southern Italy 7 days

This is my recommended itinerary for a self-drive trip to the South of Italy.

Day 1: Trani and Castel Del Monte

Our first stop for this Italian vacation was the lovely village of Trani , in Puglia.

This is a small and charming town on the Puglia/Apulian coast, on the Adriatic sea, the part of the Mediterranean that laps the shores of the East of Italy.

It is in the Bari area so it is easy to reach and a wonderful base to discover the area for a couple of days.

The star of the show here is the town duomo (church).

It sits right on the seafront and it is a vision of picture-perfect Mediterranean splendor, made of light-colored stone and shimmering sea!

Trani is well served with accommodation and restaurants and a pleasant stop for one or two nights.

I recommend spending 2 nights here to be able to enjoy this slow-paced town but also drive and visit nearby Castel del Monte.

Castel del Monte is a castle and citadel perched on a hill in the Trani / Bari/Andria area and it is worth a visit.

Dating back to the 13th century, it is now UNESCO world heritage site for it unique architecture dating back to the time of Emperor Federico II (Frederick the second).

For Trani and Castel del Monte I allocated two days to give you time to settle after arrival.

If you are short on time, you can visit each in half a day.

In Trani, you can stay at the wonderful Mare Resort for the night/s: their terrace restaurant is wonderful or you can drive to Alberobello and spend the night there (recommended)

Day 2: Alberobello, Locorotondo, Martina Franca

Our second stop is the charming city of Alberobello , a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the most photographed places in the whole of Italy due to its peculiar houses, ‘ i trulli ‘!

Alberobello is gorgeous and indeed unique: the trulli are round, whitewashed buildings with pointy roofs that are unique to this area and that give the town a wonderful fairy-tale village.

Originally poor dwellings, the trulli have now largely been refurbished and many have been turned into beautiful accommodation (we slept in one and loved it, you will find my recommendation below!)

Alberobello deserves a morning and is a good base to discover the area however, it is very touristy which is why we felt overall one night was enough.

Considering the affluence of large bus tours and what there is to see in Alberobello, I recommend you arrive in the late afternoon, spend the evening here (lovely and quiet) and explore early the morning after .

Leave before 11am/lunchtime, when mass tourism is at its peak.

After your morning in Alberobello, I recommend heading for lunch to the lovely town of Locorotondo , ten minutes drive away, and then take an extra stop in Martina Franca for an afternoon art-filled stroll before heading to Matera.

These are lovely and lesser-known places in Italy , full of charm.

In Alberobello, stay in the fabulous Trulli Anti Charme & Relax , simply wonderful (old trullo now converted into a stunning apartment)!

Day 3 and 4: Matera

Matera is less than two hours away from Alberobello but it is a world apart from anything else you have ever seen!

Located in Basilicata, a region both Italy and tourism seem to have forgotten for centuries have forgotten, Matera was nominated capital of culture for 2019 and is also Unesco World Heritage site.

The city deserved both nominations as it is truly stunning and unique.

It is entirely carved out of a mountain and its a maze of meandering alleyways, stunning churches and expansive views

The city is one of the oldest in the world, along Jericho and Aleppo, and is famous for troglodyte dwellings , rock churches and for being continuously inhabited since prehistoric times!

Nowadays, Matera is well suited to welcome tourists and is clean and rich with restaurants, hotels and wine bars where you can taste the delicious local food.

This is quite a contrast with the peculiar and hard history of its cave dwellings but the result is intoxicating and wonderful.

It is a place like no other and one that deserves at least two nights.

In Matera, stay at the perfectly located Casa del Sole apartments

Day 5 Paestum and Amalfi Coast

After Matera, our southern Italy itinerary turns back north and brings us to the third region we visited: Campania.

Campania is often and rightly mentioned for world-famous sites such as Pompeii, Herculaneum, the island of Capri and the Almalfi Coast but also has lesser knonw, amazing ones such as archaeological site of Paestum !

Paestum is a Greek settlement dating back to about 600 a.C that grew to be an important center in both Greek and then Roman times.

Nowadays, and is now a stunning archaeological site .

Here, beautiful temples lie on grassy fields and bear testimony of a grand past and a civilization usually only associated, in Italy, with the island of Sicily .

Paestum has some of the best preserved Greek temples in the world and is an absolute pleasure to visit.

You can reach it from Matera in about 3 hours and is well served with restaurants with lovely temples views.

You can easily spend a couple of hours here, letting the sun caress your skin, the temples mesmerize your eyes and the delicious local food fill your belly!

After Paestum, you can take the short drive to the Amalfi Coast. The easiest place to reach from Paestum will be Vietri, which is lovely or you can get a local ferry to almost any locality of your choice.

You can find our recommendations for the best places to base yourself on the Amalfi Coast here.

Day 5 and 6: Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi coast is an area of great natural beauty and you could easily spend a full vacation just here and never get tired of it!

However, if you only have few days you can still have a wonderful experience.

We usually base ourselved in the small and charming town of Minori and use the local ferry service to explore the area: Amalfi , Ravello, Positano and Salerno are all must see but the whole of it is beautiful!

Day 7: return to Rome or Naples

On day 7 you are likey to have to make your way back to a main center but you can still inlcude some cool stops.

Places you could see today are:

Pompeii or Herculaneum – Both within easy reach of this area.

Reggia di Caserta – a stunning castle, with Italian style gardens and priceless art

Cassino – famous for the Cassino Abbey (stunning) and for being the location of the Cassino battle in the II world war, Cassino is the perfect stop on your way to Rome for both location, cultural significance and visual impact.

Sperlonga – A lovely whitewashed village along the Tyrrhenian coast, Sperlonga is the perfect stop for a beach-side meal or a picture-perfect stop along the coast.

Gaeta – The small town of Gaeta packs a punch in terms of location and charm and with a wondergul sandy beach for a relaxing day

And of course Rome , which you won’t be able to see in half a day can be a wonderful city to explore if you have a few more days in Italy.

If you are unsure about how many night to spend in Rome and how to plan your time there , have a look at our full Rome vacation planning guide here or get in touch. I would be delighted to help!

I hope you enjoyed this Southern Italy itinerary and it gave you ideas of great places to add to your Italy bucket list .

Safe travels!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

Privacy Overview

Two Week Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

Most people who travel to Italy and want to explore the country by car opt for  Northern Italy , which  has so many fantastic tourist spots to cover, like  Verona ,  Trento   and  Lake Como  (just to name a few).

However, if you are anything like me and enjoy exploring hidden gems, then maybe a Southern Italy road trip is the perfect way to see the South of Italy’s best. 

Table of Contents

Southern Italy Road Trip Tips

There are many great places to visit on your Italian r oad trip , but the trick is limiting it to sites that will give you the most fantastic experience in the time frame you have to vacation in. This southern itinerary travel guide will help you plan an already well-driven route through some of the most beautiful places in Southern Italy. 

Car Hire in Italy

Your road trip would not be complete without firstly organizing your car hire. Hiring a car from Naples International Airport is simple; I highly recommend  Discover Cars , where you can book online, choose the company with the best deal, and it will be ready for you when you land.

Important note:  Many cities are off-limit to parking in the city centre walls to protect the historic towns. It would help if you researched each city before entering; many sites will give you the correct information on parking.

Visa in Italy

Check that you do not require a visa for Italy. The   ivisa   website is a quick and easy way to check whether your passport requires a permit or not.

Travel insurance in Italy

SafetyWing   is the world’s first International Travel Medical Insurance developed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and remote workers travelling or living abroad worldwide. Perfect for those who will be away for long periods, live and work abroad or are nomad travellers.

Southern Italy Road Trip planner

Book all your  accommodation   online before you arrive, and then link all of your bookings, tours, reservations and any transportation to your  tripit   app. The Tripit app is a game-changer and has all your itinerary nicely mapped out before you begin your round trip to Northern Italy.  My favourite travelling apps   blog post found other apps that make your Southern Italy itinerary planning more manageable. 

Northern Italy Road Trip Route

Day 1:Naples

Day 2:Naples to Pompei

Day 3Naples to Capri

Day 4: Capri to Amalfi Coast

Day 5:Explore Amalfi Coast

Day 6:Explore Almafi Coast

Day 7:Amalfi Coast to Lamezia Terme

Day 8:Explore Lamezia Terme

Day 9:Lamezia Terme to Reggio Calabria

Day 10:explore Reggio Calabria

Day 11:Reggio Calabria to Messina

Day 12Messina to Taormina

Day 13:explore Taormina

Day 14:explore Taormina

Road Trip Around Italy For Two Weeks

Southern italy road trip: day 1 naples.

Arriving in Naples is easy; follow the signs to pick up your car, check your tripit app for your address to your accommodation in Naples, and your road trip to Southern Italy begins. 

Things to do in Naples

What better way to kick off your Southern Italy Road trip than a day in grungy Naples. This city might seem dirty from the outside, but it has some kind of southern Italian charm once you start exploring. 

The best way to experience the city of Naples is on the open-top,  hop-on hop-off bus . With two routes on offer, you will be able to cover ample time during your one day of exploration. Or explore this ancient city on a  private walking tour .   Discover everything from architecture to old historical churches.

Standing tall at Naples Port’s edge, you will find Castel Nuovo (new castle), an impressive medieval Renaissance fortress. The Castel Nuovo is open from Monday to Saturday: 8:30 am to 6 pm, and 10 am to 1 pm on Sunday. 

Another fascinating must-see is the Castel dell’Ovo (Egg Castle), which has defended the city, become a prison and as was once a royal residence. It is said that poet Virgil hid a magical egg here, and if someone broke the egg, he promised that the city would suffer great catastrophes. Not sure if anyone ever found the egg, but the name stuck! The entry is free, so no need to book online. 

Visit Palazzo Reale, where inside, you will find the historic apartment and staircase of honour, amongst other rooms of such beauty. The Royal Palace of Naples was built when Naples was under Spanish rule when the Bourbon Kings ruled the Kingdom of two Sicilies. The  Royal Palace  o pens from 9 am daily, and you can purchase tickets online.

Accommodation

Accommodation in naples.

Splurge –  Renaissance Naples Hotel Mediterraneo – The Marriott franchise can not go wrong; they are always in the best locations and offer the same service worldwide. The Renaissance Naples Hotel Mediterraneo is no different. The best part about this hotel, the daily breakfast on the roof with views over Naples Port. 

Budget –  Una Notte al Museo – It shows you don’t have to pay a lot in Naples to get a great place to sleep. The pensione is only 3 minutes from significant museums and 5 minutes from the city centre. Moreover, parking is available, which is essential if you plan to start on a southern Italy road trip.

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 2 Naples to Pompeii

Travel time from naples to pompeii.

Travelling from Naples to Pompei will take approximately 30 minutes, but if you are touring the south part of Italy during summer, Pompei can be hot, very hot! So I would highly recommend arriving early or late in the afternoon to save you from the midday sun as there is no shelter.

Things to do in Pompeii

We all know the reason to come to the old town of Pompeii is to see the Unesco world heritage site; the  ruins of Pompeii;   Doors open at 9 am, and tickets can be purchased online. 

Mount Vesuvius made the world heritage site of Pompeii what it is today. So while you are in the area, why not take a guided tour along the  crater of Vesuvius?  If you would like to visit yourself, then you can drive to the lower parking lot and then walk the rest of the way (approximately 30 minutes)

Once you have discovered the UNESCO archaeological sites of Pompeii, drive 20 minutes away and discover  Herculaneum.  This small town is less well known but is as equally as impressive as also blanketed by ash and preserved over these years.

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 3 Naples to Capri

Travel time from naples to capri.

The  ferry  you catch will depend on how long it will take to get there (prices vary). Catch the slow ferry, and you will arrive in just under 1.5 hours, catch the regular ferry and be in Capri in just under 1 hour; however, if you want a faster way to get there, catch the high-speed ferry, and you will be there in 40 minutes. 

Car Parking

If you plan to stay the night on the Island of Capri, you will have to park your car at the  Naples Port . However, parking is not expensive, and the parking station is conveniently located with a shuttle bus service to the port offered for customers.

Things to do on the island of Capri

If you would rather not spend the night on Capri and instead make a day trip, then head over on a   tour   of this beautiful island (including the Blue Grotto). Here you will go on a guided tour of this magical island without the worry of parking the car for the night. 

If you want to see why this island has a reputation as being outstanding, then why not see it from the ocean? Spend a day on a  boat tour  of this beautiful island and its amazing grottos (yes, there is more than one).

Hire a boat from the dock as soon as you arrive on Capri; many different companies are offering a trip out to the Grottoes. These are not tours but a trip to the Grottos, where you then pay another person with a small dingy to visit the actual Grotto’s. 

The Blue Grotto is the most well-known for its history of witches, monsters, and Emperor Tiberius’ personal swimming hole; this spectacular cave is blue beyond blue! Why? Because sunlight passes through the underwater cavity, this reflection illuminates and makes the water so blue that it is breathtaking. 

On the other side of the island of Capri, you will find the Grotta Verde (Green Grotto). The colour in each Grotto is determined by the unique combination of water clarity, light source, cave depth, and Grotto’s size. 

The Grotta Bianca (white cave) has white limestone rocks set against the crystal blue sea, combined with the density of the water and the stalactites and stalagmites, which gives it that spectacular look.

Just a reminder that; all caves will depend on season, and the rise of the ocean, so check before you go. If the sea is too high, you will not have access to the caves. 

Accommodation: 

Splurge:  Relais Maresca Luxury Small Hotel V iews to die for, convenient location for a night stay, this small hotel has it all, right on the coast of one of the prettiest islands in Italy. So stop over for one night or splurge and stay one week; you will not get sick of the views from your room (I promise). 

Budget : Don Raffaé  I f you are looking for value for money, Don Raffae is the perfect place to stay. It is metres from a beautiful little coastal beach with the bus station is minutes away. Choose a room with a terrace to enjoy the entire experience of being on the island of Capri.

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 4 to Day 6 Capri to Amalfi Coast

Travel time from naples to positano.

From one slice of heaven to another, today, you will head back to Naples, pick up the car and drive to the Amalfi Coast. Just a short 1.5 hours away from the Naples Port will have you there in time to be relaxing on the beach and enjoying a heartful Italian lunch.

Things to do in Positano 

Spend the entire day relaxing in this beautiful part of Southern Italy. Lay on the beach, enjoy a long lunch and take it easy. You have plenty of time to explore the Amalfi Coast. 

The Amalfi Coast was listed in 1977 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it consists of 13 towns in the region. So there are a lot of exciting areas to explore.

The drive along the Amalfi coastal road is one of the most breathtaking views in Italy. However, it can be slightly terrifying as you zigzag your way along the coastal road.

Spending time on the water may seem luxurious on the Amalfi coast, and to some, it probably is. But you have to experience Amalfi and Positano on a boat tour, where you will stop to explore the towns, swim in the crystal clear ocean and enjoy time snorkelling, amongst other things.

Visit other unique towns such as Sorrento and Ravello. See why people come back here year after year! If you think a private guide would be a better option for exploring the Amalfi villages, try a  tour   where a knowledgeable guide can answer all your questions. 

Drive inland for approximately 1 hour, and you will find  Ferriere Valley,   where you can spend the day hiking the pristine wildness and discover hidden gems (like waterfalls). 

Accommodation in Positano

Splurge –  La Caravella di Positano – The location of La Caravella di Positano says it all. Right on the beach of one of the most talked-about locations in the world. Just 3min walk to the ferries as well as shops and restaurants. The view just takes your breath away.

Budget – La sorgente del sole – La Sorgente del sole offers a great price in this rather expensive town. It also provides a place to park your car, with amazing views from the balconies; the best part is that all apartments boast their kitchen and access to an outdoor hot tub with sunbeds.

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 7 and 8 Positano to Lamezia Terme

Travel time from positano to lamezia terme.

The route from Positano to Lamezia is your longest drive with approximately 4.5 to 5 hours driving time (whether you take the coastal road or go the more direct inland route), you are best to start the day early. 

Things to do in Lamezia Terme

Although there might not seem like there is much to see or do in this little old town in Southern Italy, we all know looks can be deceiving! Why not explore the village by visiting   Museo Archeologico Lametino , Teatro Umberto I and the beautiful Pontile di Lamezia (about a 20 minute drive to the coast).

Accommodation in Lamezia Terme

Splurge –  Albergo Centrale – You won’t be paying ridiculous prices in this part of Italy. Instead, your splurge is nothing more than what you expect to pay for budget accommodation. You will be pleasantly surprised as the rooms are clean and modern and the location is within walking distance of all you need.

Budget –  Carpe Diem – If you only want to pay half the price of Albergo Centrale, then Carpe Diem is highly recommended. Only ten minutes walk away from the centre this highly sort after newly renovated air-conditioned rooms are for rent. With tv, private rooms and a fridge, what else do you need?

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 9 to 10 Lamezia Terme to Reggio Calabria

Travel time from lamezia terme to reggio calabria .

During this 1.5 hours drive, there isn’t much to see of this part of Calabria, as it is less travelled by tourists, with most opting to pass through Calabria and head straight to Sicily. 

Things to do in Reggio Calabria

If you arrive early enough and want to explore more than what Reggio Calabria has to offer, hire a guide and travel to the ghost village of  Pentedattilo , a beautiful town situated on the cliff of Mount Calvario.

Visit one of Italy’s most priced statues at  Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia.  The Riace bronzes were two life-size Greek bronzes of naked bearded warriors cast around 460–450 BC in the sea in 1972 near Riace, Calabria.

Or spend the day at one of Calabria’s many beautiful beaches. The beaches are clean, the water is crystal clear, and the area is less crowded (even in summer). 

Accommodation in Reggio Calabria

Splurge –  Grand Hotel Excelsior’ – The Grand Hotel Excelsior is ideally located between the beach and the city centre, beside The National Archaeological Museum. Some rooms have sea views (well worth the few dollars extra).

Budget  –  B&B Santa Caterina – B&B Santa Caterina is a 15-minute walk from Reggio Calabria’s seafront. With air-conditioned rooms and value for money, you can’t go past this pensione. 

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 11 Reggio Calabria to Messina

Travel time from reggio calabria to messina.

Driving from Reggio Calabria to the Villa San Giovanni ferry pier is approximately 15 minutes. However, be warned that there can be a long wait getting onto the ferry, so arrive early and check ferry times before you get there. 

The Messina ferry takes approximately 25 minutes, and   tickets  can be bought online or at the  Villa San Giovanni  f erry pier. When arriving in Messina, it will take you under 5 minutes to get to the city centre.

Things to do in Messina

As the third-largest city in Sicily, this bustling town has much to offer as you start your final leg of this Southern Italy road trip. Start at the Duomo di Messina, then head to the belltower and if you want more history, then continue to  The Regional Interdisciplinary Museum of Messina . Otherwise, visit the Piazza, sit down for a long lunch and enjoy what Sicily offers. 

Accommodation in Messina

Splurge –   Villa Pulejo – If you are willing to drive 15 minutes away from the city centre, you will find yourself at Villa Pulejo. You will find yourself at the most magical place, far away from the hustle and bustle of Messina. This magnificent hotel has a bar, spa and wellness centre, swimming pool, hot tub and tennis court – need I say more?

Budget  –  Caio Duilio B&B – If laying your head to rest somewhere close to amenities is what you are after, then Caio Duilio B&B is the perfect place for you to stay the night. The pensione is clean, modern, and the friendly staff make the experience memorable.

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 12 Messina to Taormina

Travel time from messina to taormina.

The drive from Messina town centre to Taormina will have you there within the hour. As the trip is such a short distance, this allows you to spend the morning relaxing, as taking off too early isn’t necessary for your final journey on this southern Italy road trip. 

Things to do in Taormina

Oh Taormina, what a wonderful place to finish your two-week southern Italy road trip. This ancient town in Sicily is beautiful to the eye and magical to the soul. Why? Well, it is hard to put in words what makes this part of Italy so unique; for some reason, it makes my heart sing. 

Spend the day laying on the sunbeds, swimming in the ocean and eating incredible food. If that isn’t enough, go for a walk through The   Corso Umberto, the main street of Taormina, and you will see why it has been christened “the Sicilian Saint Tropez “.  Spend the afternoon right in the centre of Corso Umberto at  Piazza IX Aprile, where there are many cafes to rest your tired legs. 

Explore Taormina and the historical sites like the  Greek Theatre of Taormina  a nd St Nichola’s cathedral of Taormina ( Duomo di Taormina) . Or spend the day getting lost in the maze of arches and backstreets this beautiful town has to offer! Eat alfresco, stroll the streets, grab a gelato and take in the atmosphere! 

Accommodation in Taormina

Splurge  –  Hotel Villa Belvedere – Hotel Villa Belvedere is within a 5 minutes’ walk from Taormina’s Corso Umberto. Ideally located, spectacular views and boasts a private swimming pool. The Hotel Villa Belvedere has an old-world charm that suites a modern-day perspective. The perfect stop for the end of your road trip.

Budget  –  Hotel Lido Mediterranee – Okay, so it isn’t quite budget, budget, but for the price and location, it is truly worth more than what you pay. With views over the ocean, a private beach, and being only a 5-minute drive from the city centre, you really can’t beat the Hotel Lido Mediterranee for value for money.

Southern Italy Road Trip Day 13 and Day 14: Explore Taormina

Whether your last days are spent solely in Taormina (I don’t blame you here) or you feel like exploring this beautiful area is more your thing. It is totally up to you, but here are some great ideas for day trips from Taormina if you choose the latter. 

Taormina day trips 

Head out to  Mount Edna   and get up-close and personal to the volcano. Listed as a World Heritage site in 2013, both the highest volcano in Europe and one of the most active volcanoes globally. Please note: The distance from Taormina city centre to Mount Edna is just over an hours drive. 

Savoca and Forza d’Agrò 

Visit the towns of Savoca and Forza d’Agrò and relive the   Godfather   movie by visiting where the Corleone’s ate, drank and got married. Please note: The distance from Taormina city centre to Savoca is approximately 40 minutes.

If you are travelling with kids (or even if you aren’t), spend the day at Sicily’s waterpark,  Etnaland . Sicily can be dry and very hot during summer, so this is the perfect way to escape the summer heat. Please note: The distance from Taormina city centre to Etnaland is approximately a 1-hour drive. 

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love to share them in the comment section below!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I/we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my/our  full disclosure   for further information.

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Polignano a Mare is the inspiration behind the famous song, "Volare"

Matera is a can't-miss town in Basilicata, which is the neighboring region to Puglia.

The iconic trulli dwellings in the village of Alberobello.

Start / End

Bari, Puglia / Matera, Basilicata

Total Distance

219 miles / 353 kilometers

Suggested Days

Suggested seasons.

September through June

#UnfollowtheCrowd

Southern Italy is one of the most stunning regions of Europe, visually and culturally. Embark on a seven day adventure across Puglia and neighboring Basilicata, where your days will be full of friendly locals, ancient history, remarkable cuisine and sunny skies. This itinerary begins in Bari and follows a route south into the “Heel of the Boot” before looping back north towards Matera in the Basilicata region. Alternatively, you could also start your journey in Brindisi and work your way up from the south.

For this trip, we recommend renting a car but you can can also get around via bus and train. Just be sure to allot extra time in your trip if you do opt for public transit.

7-Day Southern Italy Itinerary

Day 1: bari.

Bari is the perfect place to start any trip to Puglia as it has an international airport well-equipped with rental car companies as well as a large train station. This city is the perfect start for exploring Puglia, or you can make it your home base and explore the other cities on the itinerary as day trips. 

When visiting Bari, your focus should be on the food. Spend a day exploring the charming streets of Bari Vecchia and enjoy some fresh made orrechiette and taralli from the Nonnas of Strada della Orrechiette. These beloved “pasta grandmas” hand-roll pasta, specifically ear-shaped orrechiette , year round and sell sacks of their creations to passerby from humble carts and tables. Then, take a walk along the water to help your stomach digest any additional indulgences like an octopus and burrata panino or some fresh made foccaccia Barese . Finish the day with an aperitivo in one of the many wine bars across the city before enjoying a fresh seafood pasta in the old town. 

DAY 2: POLIGNANO A MARE & MONOPOLI

Just a short 30 minute drive down the coast from Bari, you can get to both Poligano a Mare and Monopoli. Make sure to visit Polignano earlier in the morning as it becomes very crowded as the day goes by. For an extra rewarding experience, wake up to watch the sunrise over the cliffside town. As the sun continues to come up, explore the tight streets and enjoy some cliff jumping around the famous Lama Monachile beach cove. Around midday, when the crowds can become overwhelming, make your way to Monopoli for a more quiet and cultural experience. Enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the many outdoor cafes and explore the historic port. Spend the rest of your day relaxing with an Aperol spritz or a glass of wine at one of the secluded beaches, such as Spiaggia di Porto Verde .

After a sun-filled day of beaches and cliff jumping, make your way to the beautiful hilltop town of Ostuni for a delicious and authentic meal at one of the many Pugliese restaurants. Explore the sparkling streets at night or enjoy an outdoor cafe with, yet again, another bottle of wine.

DAY 3: OSTUNI & LECCE

Take a slow morning to experience a little more of Ostuni in the sunlight to have a full understanding of its nickname, “Città Bianca” before making your way to Lecce. Spend the rest of the day walking around the Baroque, white stone streets of Lecce.

Like Bari, make sure to try as many of the local delicacies in Lecce as possible. Thanks in large part to an influence of different cultures, some different dishes can be found here that are not as common across the rest of the country. For example, horse meat might be a shock to see on the menu in Lecce. However, it is quite common in Southern Italy. Love of horses aside, the meat is quite tasty when it is slowly cooked in a sauce. For the less adventurous eater, the most popular foods in Lecce come from the bakeries. Rustico , mostly seen as a street food, is made with two layers of puff pastry filled with a combination of bechamel sauce, tomatoes and fresh mozzarella. This addicting savory snack is perfect for any time of day.

Don’t forget your camera as you will want to capture the gorgeous and unique architecture in every direction, especially in the Piazza del Duomo . As evening falls, soak in the local atmosphere, making your way into one of the many wine bars throughout the city center for an aperitivo and a glass of wine. Make sure to try some of the different varietals of grapes the Salento area has to offer, such as Primitivo, Negroamaro and Nero di Troia.

DAY 4: LECCE

Morning in Lecce means one thing: Pasticiotto . Start your day off at an outdoor cafe in the gorgeous streets of the historic city center with the iconic pastry and a cappuccino. But don’t eat more than one— its beach day! Hop in your car and head out to the coast to relax along the shore of one of Puglia’s incredible beaches. The Otranto area is one of the more popular areas for the surrounding beaches as it is many Italians’ favorite summer destination. Explore the sea caves such as Grotta della Poesia and get a little adrenaline rush with some cliff jumping. After you’ve had your fill of sun and sand, make your way back into Lecce for another evening of indulging in the best cuisine that the city has to offer.

DAY 5: ITRIA VALLEY, ALBEROBELLO & GIOIA DEL COLLE

This will be your longest day of driving, and there are many stops along the way. Get up early and first make the drive to visit Alberobello. The limestone cone-shaped buildings known as trulli are scattered across Puglia, but you will find the highest concentration of them here in Alberobello. It is the most touristy destination of the region, but this UNESCO World Heritage Site is worth seeing for an hour or two. However, if you want to actually enjoy it, go as early as possible or you will be fighting the crowds in this very small destination.

Next, it is time to stuff your face across the Itria Valley while exploring some tiny, less-visited towns. Make sure to stop in Gioia del Colle for a caseficio , such as “ Caseficio Milano ”, for the freshest burrata and mozzarella you have ever laid eyes on. Take a pit stop in a local winery to enjoy some different Primitivo to make a comparison to those from the Salento region around Lecce. Azienda Agricola Plantamura is an excellent option. Head into Martina Franca to walk off some of that wine and cheese before eating your way through a plethora of meats at a local macelleria such as La Locanda del Macellaio . Lastly, take a stroll through Locorotondo, another white hilltop town similar to Ostuni.

DAY 6: MATERA

You cannot visit Puglia without heading to Matera in the neighboring region of Basilicata . Considered the oldest, continuously inhabited town in the world, Matera is drowning in history and culture. The scenes are otherworldly as it feels like you’re stepping back thousands of years. The narrow, steep streets are a hike on their own, but make sure to head across to the other side of the gorge and climb up the hill and into the caves. The views are incredible around every turn, but some of the best include Belvedere di Piazza Giovanni Pascoli , Convento di Sant’Agostino, Chiesa Rupestre di Santa Maria di Idris and Belvedere Murgia Timone.

One of the most unique things to do in Matera is to stay overnight in a cave. Many of the caves, known as sassi , have been fully renovated into hotels , spas, AirBnB’s, shops and restaurants. There is something very special about sleeping in a place that people have been using for around 9,000 years as shelter.

Lastly, indulge in the local culture and atmosphere. The cafes and restaurants here in Matera are extraordinary. Basilicata is actually the poorest region of Italy. But the regional Lucanian cuisine makes use of simple recipes and embodies an extremely rich culture around food. A lot of the time less is indeed more. La Lopa is a great restaurant to try out some different Lucanian dishes and each meal is followed by a visit downstairs to the cave cinema, which shows scenes from every movie ever filmed in Matera.

DAY 7: MATERA

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10 Day Southern Italy Itinerary

Last Updated on March 26, 2024 by Ingrid & Alex

Are you planning your 10 day southern Italy itinerary and want help with it? You landed on the right page!

We have lived in and traveled extensively in the country, so you can draw on our experience.

In fact, we have designed 2 options for you: traveling by car or by train.

This post contains affiliate links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you. Read more about this on our  disclosure page here .

Table of Contents

Option 1: 10 Day Southern Italy Itinerary by Car

Overview : rome, naples, amalfi coast, and puglia, day 1 – 3 rome, day 3 – 6 naples & the amalfi coast (pompeii, herculaneum, capri island), day 6 – 10 puglia (matera, bari, alberobello, polignano a mare, monopoli).

Traveling by car will allow you to make the best out of your trip. Even though I would always choose to travel by train in the northern part of the country, public transportation connections in the south aren’t so great.

However, it doesn’t mean it is impossible to create an itinerary by train—you’ll find one if you keep on reading—but it will take longer, and you’d have to skip some destinations.

Thus, the first itinerary we have prepared for you assumes that you land in Rome and leave from Bari. Don’t worry; there are plenty of flight options to and from both destinations.

Days 1 – 3: Rome

You should begin your 10 day southern Italy itinerary in the place everything started: Rome. Spending 2 nights and almost 3 days in Italy’s capital will give you enough time to get a taste of the Eternal City.

Day 1: Historical Rome

Morning: Colosseum and Roman Forum

Start your day early at the Colosseum, the iconic amphitheater where gladiator contests used to take place. Visit the adjacent Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome.

Book your guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill!

Read the complete guide for visiting the Colosseum and the Roman Forum !

Lunch: Near the Forum

You must be exhausted by now. You should consider lunch. There are plenty of restaurants southwest of the Forum, toward the river.

Afternoon: Pantheon and piazza Navona

Pantheon: Visit the Pantheon, the well-preserved ancient Roman temple with a remarkable dome. Marvel at the Oculus, a hole in the center of the dome. Book your fast-track ticket with audio guide!

Piazza Navona: Stroll to Piazza Navona, a lively square with beautiful fountains, outdoor cafes, and street performers.

Evening: Trevi Fountain and Dinner in the Historic Center

Trevi Fountain: Make a wish at Trevi, one of the most famous fountains in the world. It’s especially enchanting when illuminated at night.

Dinner in Centro Storico: Enjoy dinner at one of the many charming restaurants in the historic center.

Day 2: Vatican City and Cultural Highlights

Morning: The Vatican

Vatican City: Begin your day at Vatican City. Explore St. Peter’s Basilica and climb to the top for a stunning view of the city. Just make sure you are properly dressed: long-sleeved shirt and pants / below-the-knee dress, no flip-flops or generous cleavage.

Vatican Museums: Visit the Vatican Museums, home to an extensive collection of art, including the Sistine Chapel. Be sure to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

Lunch: Prati District

Prati District: Head to the Prati district for lunch. This area has a mix of local trattorias and international restaurants.

Afternoon: Castel Sant’Angelo and the Spanish Steps

Castel Sant’Angelo: Walk to Castel Sant’Angelo, a historic fortress with a fascinating history. Enjoy the views of the Tiber River.

Spanish Steps: Visit the Spanish Steps and the nearby shopping area of Via dei Condotti for some leisurely shopping or people-watching.

Evening: Dinner in Piazza del Popolo

Dinner in Piazza del Popolo: Have dinner in Piazza del Popolo, a large square with a vibrant atmosphere

Night-time Views: For a stunning nighttime view of Rome, head to a panoramic viewpoint like the Pincio Terrace in Villa Borghese or the Janiculum Hill.

Where to stay for 2 days in Rome

Here are my top choices:

Vatican Luxury Penthouse with terrace

Rooftop Magic in Piazza del Popolo

One day in Naples

After breakfast in Rome, drive down to Naples; it is a 2.5-hour journey.

Since you’ll have less than a day to explore the city, you’ll want to focus on Naples’ highlights, including its historical sites, vibrant neighborhoods, and delicious cuisine.

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a day in Naples:

Late Morning: Historic Naples

Start at Spaccanapoli: Begin your day by exploring Spaccanapoli, a narrow, bustling street that cuts through the historic center of Naples. Admire the vibrant atmosphere, local shops, and historic churches.

Naples Cathedral (Duomo di Napoli): Visit the Naples Cathedral, which is dedicated to San Gennaro, the city’s patron saint. The cathedral is known for its beautiful frescoes and the Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro.

Lunch: Napoli Street Food

Pizzeria da Michele: For a true Neapolitan pizza experience, head to Pizzeria da Michele. This historic pizzeria, featured in the movie “Eat Pray Love,” is known for its simple but delicious Margherita and Marinara pizzas.

Afternoon: Naples Museums

Naples National Archaeological Museum: Spend your afternoon at the Naples National Archaeological Museum, home to an impressive collection of Greco-Roman antiquities, including artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Castel dell’Ovo: Visit Castel dell’Ovo, a seaside castle with panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples. Stroll along the seafront promenade and enjoy the picturesque setting.

Evening: Waterfront and Dinner

Lungomare: Take a leisurely walk along Via Partenope and Lungomare, the waterfront promenade. Enjoy views of the sea, Mount Vesuvius, and the iconic Castel dell’Ovo.

Dinner in Chiaia or Vomero: Choose a neighborhood like Chiaia or Vomero for dinner. These areas offer a variety of restaurants serving Neapolitan and Italian cuisine. Consider trying local specialties like pasta with ragù, seafood dishes, or sfogliatella for dessert.

Nightlife (Optional):

Piazza Bellini: If you’re up for some evening entertainment, head to Piazza Bellini. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and live music venues.

Where to stay in Naples

Choose to stay in  Spaccanapoli , the  Historical Center , or  Lungomare Caracciolo . These are good areas, relatively close to the most important attractions in town.

Days 4 – 6 Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

A short drive from Naples, you’ll find your new base in Sorrento. From here, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the most beautiful attractions on the Amalfi Coast.

Where to stay in Sorrento

Luxury hotels: Grand Hotel Aminta and Bellevue Syrene Hotel

Mid-Range Hotels : Al Parco Verde B&B and Hotel Villa Fiorita

Apartments : Casa Gilda Sorrento and Mediterranean Suites – Old Town

If you are not yet convinced, find out if you should stay in Sorrento or Positano in this comprehensive comparison.

I recommend the following day trips from Sorento:

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, Pompeii was an ancient Roman city located near the Bay of Naples.

The city thrived until it was tragically buried under layers of ash and pumice during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Frozen in time for centuries, the remarkably preserved ruins provide an unparalleled glimpse into daily life during the heyday of the Roman Empire.

You can wander through the well-preserved streets, explore ancient houses with magnificent frescoes, and marvel at the intricate mosaics that adorn public spaces.

The Forum, the heart of Pompeii’s civic and social life, the grand amphitheater, and the haunting casts of the volcano’s victims add to the site’s historical and emotional significance.

Book your ticket with an audio guide!

One of the most famous villages on the Amalfi Coast, Positano, is stunningly beautiful and hard to miss.

There are colorful houses perched on the hill, fancy restaurants that offer delicious meals, and narrow streets with great views. Make sure you arrive from the sea and admire the beauty of this place.

You can also book a day trip from Sorrento to the Amalfi Coast !

Capri Island

Live like an emperor for a day! One day on the island of Capri will allow you enough time to see the most famous attractions.

Here is an itinerary example:

Arrival at Marina Grande: Start your day by arriving at Marina Grande, Capri’s main port. Enjoy the view of colorful houses clinging to the cliffs and the azure waters.

Funicular to Capri Town: Take the funicular up to Capri Town. Once there, explore the chic boutiques, cafes, and the lively Piazzetta, the main square.

Gardens of Augustus: Walk in the Gardens of Augustus for breathtaking views of the Faraglioni rock formations and the sea. The gardens are adorned with lush vegetation and flowers.

Lunch in Capri Town: Choose one of the local restaurants for a delicious Italian lunch. Seafood dishes are often a highlight.

Bus to Anacapri: Take a bus or taxi to Anacapri, the quieter part of the island. Explore the charming streets and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

Chairlift to Mount Solaro: For panoramic views, take the chairlift to the summit of Mount Solaro, the highest point on the island. The breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Naples and the Amalfi Coast are worth the journey.

Faraglioni Viewpoint: Return to Capri Town and enjoy the scenic view of the Faraglioni rocks. This area is particularly enchanting during sunset.

Dinner in Marina Grande: Head back to Marina Grande for dinner. Many waterfront restaurants offer delicious seafood dishes. Enjoy the sea breeze and the magical atmosphere of Capri at night.

Herculaneum

Herculaneum, a lesser-known but equally compelling archaeological site, lies at the base of Mount Vesuvius. It is actually my husband’s favorite site and a place of inspiration for describing life in the Roman Empire in his historical mystery books .

While Pompeii was home to the upper classes, Herculaneum had a more balanced demographic structure. So, modern visitors can see not only the villas of the rich and powerful but also the more modest dwellings, shops, and entertainment venues of Average Jane and Joe.

Much like its more famous neighbor, Pompeii, Herculaneum was a thriving Roman city until the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, which buried it under layers of ash and volcanic material.

What sets Herculaneum apart is its remarkably well-preserved state, with untouched buildings, colorful frescoes, and even wooden structures that survived due to the pyroclastic flow that engulfed the city.

Book your entry ticket with an audio guide here!

You are halfway through your 10 day southern Italy itinerary. It is time to switch coasts.

Drive from the Amalfi Coast all the way to Puglia on the east coast.

Situated on the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is known for its charming whitewashed villages, olive groves, and stunning coastline along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.

The region boasts a rich historical heritage, evident in the trulli houses of Alberobello, the Baroque architecture of Lecce, and the ancient cave dwellings in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site just across the border in Basilicata.

Puglia is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering delectable cuisine featuring fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and the region’s prized olive oil.

Where to stay in Puglia

You will want to be mobile during your 4 days in Puglia, so you must choose the perfect location for your base camp.

During my 4 days in Puglia , I stayed in Alberobello, but I would also recommend Polignano a Mare or Monopoli .

Here are a few of my top accommodation recommendations:

Masseria Alchimia  – enjoy the most authentic and fresh Italian breakfast only a few kilometers away from Polignano a Mare in a stylish and immaculate location. Book your perfect room here!

Hotel Don Ferrante  – who wouldn’t want to experience staying within the walls of Monopoli? This 10-room boutique hotel will not only charm you with its design but also with its rooftop terrace and pool overlooking the blue. See when they have free rooms here!

Trullieu Guesthouse Alberobello  – even though the trullo guesthouse is located extremely close to Alberobello’s center, it is still hidden from all the noise and fuss. And it also has free parking spaces nearby. Book your stay in a trullo here!

What to do in Puglia

Go on a day trip to Matera

Getting from Bari to Matera or any other place in Puglia is not at all difficult, and the city is so charming that you won’t regret taking the trip.

Carved into the limestone cliffs, the Sassi di Matera forms a unique urban landscape that has earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage status. These stone-carved homes, churches, and cave dwellings date back centuries and showcase the resilience and resourcefulness of Matera’s inhabitants throughout history.

Book your Matera guided tour here!

Get lost on the streets of Monopoli

You should visit the Castle of Charles V , the Palmieri Palace , or simply drink a cocktail on the picturesque waterfront.

See the trulli in Alberobello

The trulii are traditional Apulian dry stone huts with conical roofs. Alberobello is particularly famous for its dense concentration of trulli . It has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its unique architecture.

Go for an olive oil tasting in Ostuni and explore the city.

Visit Martina Franca and do a local wine-tasting

Last day – Drive to Bari Airport

Alas, all good things come to an end, including your 10 day southern Italy itinerary.

As you leave your car at Bari Airport, I hope you’ll look back satisfied with the unforgettable journey you have just completed. And remember, you can always come back for another Italian adventure!

Option 2: 10 Day Southern Italy Itinerary by Train & Bus & Plane

While in Rome, I suggest you keep the itinerary described above.

Day 3 – 5 Amalfi Coast

Take the train to Naples, Sorrento, or Salerno (fast train) for the Amalfi Coast. For more details on the sights, please consult the previous section.

Day 5 – 10 Sicily

Instead of heading for Italy’s east coast halfway through your 10 day southern Italy itinerary, you should fly from Naples to beautiful Sicily.

Sicily is rather large, so you should focus on one of its halves instead of aiming to cover the entire island.

Thus, you should base yourself either in Catania (on Sicily’s east coast) or Palermo (on the west coast) and drive around from there.

There are so many things to do in Sicily that you’ll have your hands full no matter where you stay.

From Catania , you can climb Mount Etna. Or go and explore Taormina, one of the most charming villages in Sicily.

You should consider visiting Syracuse and walking the storied streets of Ortigia Island. If you are into movies, you should check out the filming sites of the Godfather movie in Messina .

Palermo itself could be a destination worth visiting for two days. Among its many sights, our favorites are the Norman Castle , the Palermo Cathedral , and the Teatro Massimo Opera House . Then, you can relax at Mondello Beach .

From Palermo, you can take day trips to the picturesque village of Cefalu , the beaches at San Vito Lo Capo , or the salt marshes at Trapani .

Last Day – Go to the airport

Your 10 day southern Italy itinerary reached its conclusion. Time to say goodbye to Italy for now.

Arrivederci! Hope to see you soon!

How to get around

The two itineraries described above are aimed at those who want to travel by car or by train & bus.

Driving around Italy is not too difficult, and it allows you to be flexible.

If you are looking for the best prices (who doesn’t?), book your car in advance.

Discover Cars  is a great aggregator helping you  save up to 70%  on your car rental.

Moreover, they have a pretty good  Cancellation policy that gives you options in case your flight or travel plans change.  Get your offers here!

If you would rather go by train or bus, Bookaway is your getaway for trains, buses, and flights. I suggest using it, especially when booking tickets for Italy and Germany . Calculate your train fare here!

When is the Best Time for Your 10 Day Southern Italy Itinerary?

Anytime is a good time, as far as we are concerned :).

However, to get the best of everything Southern Italy has to offer, you should visit either during Spring or early Autumn.

July and August are very hot and crowded, while during the winter months, many places are closed.

During Spring ( March-May ), the weather is pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging from comfortable to warm. The countryside is in full bloom, and outdoor attractions are less crowded than during the peak summer months. Spring is an excellent time for sightseeing, exploring historical sites, and enjoying outdoor activities.

In Autumn (September-November) , the weather is still pleasant, with warm temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the summer peak. Autumn is an ideal time for enjoying outdoor activities, such as hiking and exploring the countryside, and it’s also harvest season, meaning you can indulge in fresh local produce and wines.

PIN FOR LATER

Ingrid & Alex

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Southern Italy Road Trip: From the Heel to the Toe

Updated March 2024 ,  The Southern Italy Road Trip was originally written in December 2018

This Southern Italy road trip will take you through Italy’s southern regions of Campania, Basilicata, Puglia, and Calabria. These regions don’t quite get the number of foreign tourists (except for the Amalfi Coast , which I have included!) that the stars of Northern Italy get.

Don’t be put off by the scant information on Italy’s south, it’s definitely a hidden gem begging to be discovered.

The people are more passionate, life moves slower and the food is made with all the amore (as well as an added kick of spice).

I will give rough estimates for timings for each part of this road trip as I know everyone likes to move at a different pace, and also has differing amounts of travel time.

I think 10 days would be the minimum to complete it in while others may take 20 or more days. The trip will start and end in Naples, but fear not: If you’d like to continue down to  Sicily  by ferry it is completely possible!

If you’re looking for more Italy inspiration check out Dan Flying Solo’s  Hidden Gems of Italy  article.

Looking for more ideas? Check out my  off the beaten path Italy guide

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How To Rent A Car For A Southern Italy Road Trip

We used  Holiday Autos  to make our rental car booking from Naples Airport, but I also recommend booking through Expedia from other past experiences.

The process was simple and picking up the car from the rental car agency was a quick process. I have used this company before in  Cyprus  and  Morocco  and have had all good experiences.

Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

Naples — 1-3 Days

Welcome to Italy’s Dirty South! Where better to kick off your Southern Italy road trip than with a warm benvenuto then the capital of pizza,  Napoli .

You’ve probably heard some not-so-good things about Naples, it’s a city without a great reputation. With that said, I have been to Naples several times now and have never had an issue. Just keep your wits about you and use your usual precautions and all should be fine.

Some must-do’s in Naples include grabbing a pizza at  Gino Sorbillo’s , checking out the displays at Museo d’Arte Contemporanea, taking a funicular ride up to Castel Sant Elmo, gawking at the architecture of Gesu Nuovo, and grabbing a drink at Piazze Bellini. And that’s just a few things to catch in Napoli, there’s also The Royal Palace of Naples, National Archeology Museum of Naples, Castel Dell’Ovo, and Piazza del Plebiscito.

Just outside Naples, you can explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and even climb to the top of Mt. Vesuvius– don’t worry if you’re not that active: there are plenty of great views of Vesuvius from Naples (but you can reward yourself with some more Gino Sorbillo’s pizza, just saying).

Plan your stay:  The Naples Travel Guide

Where To Stay In Naples

• Budget:  Hostel of the Sun |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Napoli City Rooms |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Splurge:  Grand Hotel Vesuvio |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Amalfi Coast — 2-3 Days

Any of you regular readers here know that I’m not usually a fan of well-known tourist traps, but trust me when I say the  Amalfi Coast  is a tourist haven for good reason– it’s gorgeous. Just make sure and be patient, especially in summer for the traffic jams.. and not to mention the extremely narrow winding roads here– the Amalfi Coast is impossible to rush through.

We visited the Amalfi Coast at Halloween and can say albeit rainy weather it was a great time to visit, as the crowds were thin and all the festivities were going on.

Plan your visit to the Amalfi Coast with my  Amalfi Coast Guide

Where To Stay On The Amalfi Coast

• Budget:  Cetara Albergo Difuso (Cetara) |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Hotel Savoia (Positano) |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Splurge:  La Sirenuse (Positano) |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Rooms in the towns of Positano and Amalfi tend to be more expensive. If you don’t mind staying in a smaller village along the coast it can save you some money, as well as staying just beyond the coast on either and in  Sorrento  or  Salerno .

If visiting in the off-season many of the hotels will be closed. On our November visit, the gorgeous Hotel Savoia was still open and offered some great room rates.

Castelmezzano & Pietrapertosa — 1 Day

Shh, don’t let everyone one in on this secret gem of Italy… in fact, I feel like I’m betraying the place by mentioning it on this itinerary. But really, is this real life?

Yes, yes it is. These are the mountaintop villages of  Castelmezzano & Pietrapertosa , surrounded by the wild peaks of the Lucian Dolomites dating back to the 10th century. For those adventurous, you can zipline between the two villages on the ‘Flight of the Angel‘.

You’re welcome.

See why you can’t pass up  Castelmezzano & Pietrapertosa

Where To Stay In Castelmezzano

• Budget: La Panoramica | Booking.com | Agoda.com |
• Midrange:  Dimore dell’Omo |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Splurge:  Borgo dell’Angelo |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Matera — 1/2-2 Days

Once known to be one of the poorest cities in Italy and now slated as a 2019 European Capital of Culture, Matera has risen from the Sassi.

Oh don’t worry, the Sassi has gone nowhere– The Sassies are the mountainside cave dwellings that the citizens of  Matera  have inhabited since Paleolithic times. Matera is chock full of underground homes, restaurants, churches, and even a museum.

Don’t miss visiting the archeological gem of the  Sassi di Matera

Where To Stay In Matera

• Budget:  The Rock Hostel |  Booking.com  | 
• Midrange:  Stone Rooms |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Splurge:  Locanda di San Martino Hotel & Thermae Romanae |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Wanna save €€€ on accommodation? I recommend booking a room in nearby  Castellaneta  or  Massafra .

Alberobello — 1/2-1 Day

Alberobello  is home to the largest and best-kept collection of Trulli stone houses.

The most popular theory suggests that in avoidance of paying high property tax rates by the people brought to the Itria Valley to work, these conical stone houses were built in such a way that they could be quickly dismantled when tax appraisers came by– only inhabited homes could be taxed back in the day.

These fascinating buildings look like something straight out of a fairytale.

With all that said, Alberobello can easily be seen in half a day, but some may opt to spend a full day touring around or even take the opportunity to rent a Trullo and spend a night in one.

Check out the  best things to do in Alberobello  before you visit

Where To Stay In Alberobello

• Budget:  Villiaggio Camping Bosco Selva |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Il Trullo dei Sogni |  Booking.com  |
• Splurge:  Trulli Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Wanna save €€€ on accommodation? I recommend booking a room in nearby  Castellaneta ,  Martina Franca , or  Massafra .

Martina Franca — 1/2-1 Day

Martina Franca is a short drive from Alberobello and is definitely worth the stop. The Centro Storico (Old Town) is very well preserved with great examples of Baroque architecture and hardly another foreign tourist around.

Where To Stay In Martina Franca

• Budget:  Archetto Bianco |  Booking.com  |
• Midrange:  Il Trullo del Leccio da Madia |  Booking.com  |
• Splurge:  Trulli del Carmine |  Booking.com  |

Grotta Della Poesia — 1/2-1 Day

Grotta Della Poesia translates out to the Cave of Poetry in English and is it ever so fitting a name. This beautiful natural cave pool filled with crystal clear aquamarine waters definitely warrants a stop as you make your way down Puglia– the heel of the boot.

Looking for travel ideas for the more iconic stop in Northern Italy? Check out my two week classic Italy itinerary and start planning

Santa Cesarea Terme — 1/2-1 Day

This small town near the bottom of the boot packs some lovely beaches around it as well as being home to a few thermal baths (hence the name Terme). Some may opt to pass through making a quick stop while others will plan to stay a day or three.

Where To Stay In Santa Cesarea Terme

• Budget:  Tenuto Don Monaco |  Booking.com  |
• Midrange:  Paradise Sea Apartment |  Booking.com  |
• Splurge:  La Capase Resort Salento |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Pollino National Park — 1 Day

It’s no lie– the south coast of Basilicata isn’t the most exciting (although, you can make stops and try to find hidden gems along the way!) But to break up the long drive from Puglia to Calabria a stop at Pollino National Park will break the monotony. The park is known for its plethora of tree types and stunning little towns.

Tropea — 1-2 Days

Tropea is no secret to Italian sun-seekers in the summer months. Whitewashed with summer sun, sandy beaches, cerulean waters, and the gorgeous Santa dell’Islo church nestled into a rock and looming over the sea below.

Where To Stay In Tropea

• Budget:  Hotel la Perla |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Passo del Cavaliere |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Splurge:  Hotel Rocca Della Sena |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Grotto dell’Arcomagno — 1/2-1 Day

North along Calabria’s coast from Tropea lies the Grotto dell’Arcomagno, which is still very much a hidden gem in Italy, though do expect a crowd of domestic tourists in the summer months. To reach the grotto you will need to first head to the small seaside town of San Nicola Arcella, then walk across the beach and follow the trail up the rocks and be rewarded with views of the beautiful arch and clear waters below.

Maratea — 1/2-1 Day

Maratea is a picture-perfect coastal town, sprinkled with churches in typical Italian fashion and all the waterfront restaurants and marina with a statue of Christ guarding over from a cliffside above. After our visit, we highly recommend staying in nearby Aquafredda at Villa Irlanda with the most welcoming owner.

Where To Stay In Maratea

• Budget:  Hotel Ristorante Borgo La Tana |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Splurge:  La Locanda Delle Donne Monache |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Cilento Coast — 1-2 Days

The Amalfi Coast’s lesser-visited cousin– the Cilento Coast has just as much to offer with equal beauty and a fraction of the crowd. With sandy beaches and sunbleached towns, it has much to offer. Seaside towns to explore include Agropoli, Palinuro, and Castellabate. Move inland to find countless hikes on offer at Parco Nazionale del Cilento e Vallo di Diano and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Certosa San Lorenzo in Padula… and let’s not forget the Greek ruins in Paestum.

You can easily spend a week or more exploring this area, but for those crunched on time, you can still enjoy the views as you make your way back up to Naples to end your road trip.

Where To Stay On The Cilento Coast

• Midrange:  Aurora B&B (Agropoli) |  Booking.com  |
• Splurge:  Hotel Palazzo Belmonte (Castellabate) |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

When To Go On A Southern Italy Road Trip

Naturally, the south of Italy has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. Temperatures in the winter can range from 3-14ºC and in summers will typically fluctuate from 19-30+ºC. The wettest months of the year are October and November (which I can attest to as we did our Southern Italy road trip in early November).

To avoid the crowds and still get nice weather consider the shoulder months of April, May, & September. If you’re not afraid of chilly weather January & February can be a great time to visit as prices are lowest and crowds are thinnest.

Southern Italy Road Trip Tips

• Italy drives on the right
• Most cars in Italy are manual transmissions. Automatics are available but can book well in advance in the summer months. Plan to pay a little more for an automatic (in November 2018 an automatic compact car was going in the range of 7-15€/day, whereas manuals were going for 5€/day)
• Make sure and have an IDP (international driver’s permit) before you leave home. I had to make my friend Tay get one before she came over to visit me because I realized not only was mine expired, but I had lost it. If you get into an accident, even a simple fender-bender in Italy, and don’t have an IDP you will have a costly ordeal on your hands much of the time. Go to a AAA branch and apply for one, tip: bring a passport photo.
• Watch your speed. There are cameras on the roads clocking speed and dealing with the polizia can be a gigantic pain in the ass.

Have Any Southern Italy Road Trip Questions?

Ask your Southern Italy road trip questions in the comments below!

More Posts from Italy:

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Lampedusa Travel Guide: Italy’s Southernmost Island

Sperlonga: Lazio Region’s Best Kept Italian Secret

Southern Italy Road Trip: From Heel To The Toe

One Day In Rome: It Wasn’t Built In A Day, But You Can See It In One

Two Week Classic Italy Itinerary

A Quick Guide To Syracuse & Ortygia Island, Sicily

A Quick Amalfi Coast Travel Guide

A Quick Guide To Italy’s Cave City Of Matera

Discover The Best Wine Routes Across The Globe

20 Off The Beaten Path Destinations In Italy

The Top 18 Things To Do In Naples, Italy: The Naples Travel Guide

Hiking Mount Circeo In Italy’s Lazio Region

A Quick Guide To Alberobello + 5 Things To Do In Alberobello

The Best Road Trips In The World

Terracina Travel Guide + Things To Do In Terracina

Two tornados, a road trip, & italian citizenship.

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7 thoughts on “southern italy road trip: from heel to the toe”.

was parking ever an issue in any of these places?

We didn’t have any parking issues on the trip but we did visit in the off-season so surely that helped. I would imagine the Amalfi Coast being a bit more difficult to find an available parking space in the popular summer months so I would plan to possibly walk a bit in case you can’t find anything close. In most places we found either paid parking marked on maps or street parking with relative ease.

Hi, great blog post. Do you remember maybe what your budget for the whole thing ended up being? Thanks xx

Thank you! We averaged about 100-130€ per day for this trip most days between car rental, accommodation, petrol and food/wine (divided amongst the three of us on the trip).

Beautiful photos! This blog post has me craving a trip back to Italy….and for pizza

I wish I had found this before we planned our trip last summer! We missed a few places on your itinerary, like Castlemezaano– it’s freakin’ gorgeous!

Awesome itinerary, thanks for sharing!

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Southern Italy itinerary: A dream vacation in the South of Italy

When thinking of Italy’s national heritage it’s easy to stop at Rome, eyes set on the Colosseum, one hand grasped around a trapizzino sandwich, perfectly satisfied with the capital’s array of art, architecture and food. But slip your toes further into this timeless Versace boot and you’ll see there’s more to this nation outside of its better-known cities. Saunter your way down the Southern Italy coast for an authentic break flanked by both sea and verdant countryside, stopping at historic wineries and medieval towns en route to vibrant second cities surely worth a second day. Join us on our itinerary for southern Italy, for a dream road trip, from Naples to Taranto.

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Capri | Photo: Bilal EL-Daou

Best time to visit Southern Italy

When planning a South Italy itinerary, bear in mind that there will be some climate variation caused by the nation’s long, narrow shape. While you’re right in thinking that Italy benefits from generally warm weather year-round thanks to its Mediterranean surroundings, it’s also true that some seasons are better than others, particularly if trying to avoid the crowds and hottest temperatures.

In summer, much of Italy comes hot and dry, while, in winter, it’s mild and wet. Spring and fall tend to fall in between the two, making for some incredible (and affordable) off-season breaks. As you go south, luckily the weather gets warmer, with possible exceptions atop the snowy peaks of the Apennine Mountains that runs south from the centre of the country. Stay low however and you’re likely to stay warm and dry, especially so on the islands of Sardinia and Sicily which see average August temperatures of around 30°C (though this number is often exceeded). Given these numbers, summer on the south coast is sure to be crowded, particularly in August when Europeans take to the beaches for their summer holidays. A good way around this would be to travel early in the season (May-June) before crowds and costs rise exponentially.

To reduce your Italy trip cost, base yourself in lesser cities and consider travelling in spring and fall when the weather still allows for beach days, accommodation is cheaper and crowds are fewer.

Photo: Marvin Meyer

Sorrento | Photo: Tom Podmore

Southern Italy itinerary

When life gives you Amalfi lemons, surely you should sip lemonade on the coast. Likewise, when life gives you Capri tomatoes, why not chow down on a Capri pizza overlooking the Tyrrhenian? The beauty of touring Southern Italy is that you need not choose; instead see it all, travelling through the best Southern Italian cities, towns and rural parts in between, savouring all the joys of the south, wine, cheese and pasta included. As well as foodie wonders, the southern half of the country is packed with arts, architecture, history and nature, all starting in Naples, the regional capital. At a bare minimum, we recommend taking 3 days in Naples , branching out with added time to explore the region surrounding (including historic towns such as Pompeii) before heading down the Amalfi Coast , with an optional jaunt on the island of Capri, before ending in Puglia, in Italy’s heel. Read on for a breakdown of what to do and see in each destination.

Photo: Daniele Colucci

A bustling South Italy city set on the Mediterranean Coast with Mount Vesuvius in the background, there are certainly less beautiful cities than Naples . Aesthetically appealing it may be with a trendy lot of locals to populate, Naples also happens to be the birthplace of Italian pizza and host site of the famed catacombs that run under the city. Above ground, Naples’ castles, main squares and royal palaces give a glimpse of the wealthy city of old, alongside ancient ruins painted with some of Christianity’s oldest frescoes. Find this and more on your first two days roaming the city, historians spending time at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale (for Pompeiian frescoes and mosaics) and art lovers at the Pio Monte della Misericordia, Palazzo Zevallos Stigliano and Museo di Capodimonte (for Caravaggio masterpieces). The museums’ baroque architecture could be enough to keep you amused the whole day, but so too can the eerie skulls of Cimitero delle Fontanelle.

For dinner, Naples is bound to please, offering some of Italy’s best pizza, pasta and espresso, all of which can be found across the city’s wonderful street markets and celebrated restaurants. Try the spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with garlic clams), simple ragù (meat in tomato sauce) or parmigiana di melanzane (baked eggplant layered with cheese and tomato sauce) for a taste of the local specialties.

Naples | Photo: Victor Malyushev

Photo: Kenzie Kraft

2. Pompeii & Mt Vesuvius

After three or so days in Naples, a day trip to Pompeii is surely brewing, allowing you to discover first-hand the damage Mount Vesuvius wreaked on this ancient town, a place now frozen in time by lava. A Pompeii day trip is easy to achieve from either Sorrento or Naples, taking just 30 minutes by car (and only slightly longer by train) from both cities.

Book in advance and leave base early to avoid the crowds at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, its status earned thanks to the town’s complete preservation, buried by Vesuvius’ eruptions in 79AD and rediscovered in the mid-18 th century. Today, millions of visitors flock here each year to walk through the once-buried roads, homes and buildings, eerily hosted by the mummified remains of past residents. If you don’t have the whole day, save at least 3 to 4 hours to roam the site, prioritising key builds such as the Foro, Teatro Grande, Terme Stabiane and Casa del Fauno. Lesser-known archaeological sites to consider include Boscoreale, Herculaneum (Ercolano), Oplontis and Stabia, which – though smaller – are just as worthy for their ruins perfectly preserved for centuries under volcanic ash.

Pompeii | Photo: Canmandawe

Pompeii | Photo: Photo Mahdiye

3. Amalfi Coast

With some historic ruins under our travel belts, it’s time to zoom along the Amalfi Coast , possibly cruising to the island of Capri and coming to rest in Amalfi town. The drive from Naples to Amalfi Coast (arriving at Amalfi Town) is 70 kilometres (1 hour 25 minutes by car) and you won’t begrudge even a second as you trace the glittering Tyrrhenian coastline, hugging the cliffside to pass secluded bays, cliffside villages and colourful towns redolent of a bygone Italy. The sheer and winding roads may have you gripping the steering wheel in terror but luckily there are plenty of picturesque places to rest along the way, including the villages of Praiano, Ravello and Positano, all oozing old-world sophistication and panoramic sea views. Instead of arriving too early in Amalfi, stop at Praiano’s San Gennaro Church, chill at Villa Rufolo gardens in Ravello and bathe with beauties on Positano’s Spiaggia Grande (Large Beach), saving an afternoon to walk one or two of Italy’s best hiking trails, one of the more affordable activities in the region.

Amalfi | Photo: Tom Podmore

The drive from Naples to Amalfi is 70 kilometres and you won’t begrudge even a second as you trace the glittering Tyrrhenian coastline, hugging the cliffside to pass secluded bays, cliffside villages and colourful towns redolent of a bygone Italy

Take your time on the road, optionally returning to Sorrento, the gateway town to Amalfi Coast beaches, in order to allow yourself a rest day of museums and shopping among lively piazzas. Remember that your final destination town of Amalfi is on the small side, walkable in about 20 minutes, due to a landslide that saw most of the town slip into the ocean after an earthquake back in 1343. What’s left of Amalfi retains cultural and historic weight, by way of its vast Byzantine-influenced cathedral and quaint Paper Museum, serving a modest population of around 5,000. With time, enjoy a meal at a rustic Amalfi restaurant (comparing the Amalfi pizza to its Neapolitan rival), also checking out the view from around the headlands in the neighbouring village of Atrani.

For longer road trips, you might also go from Rome to Amalfi Coast via the inland E45 route, passing through Naples on the way. From there, you can even take the car on a ferry from Naples to Capri (or drive around the bay for a jaunt in Pompeii before catching the ferry from Sorrento to Capri). Of the top things to do once you arrive in Capri, getting the chairlift up Mount Solaro and dining at a traditional Capri restaurant in the Piazzetta (main square) are both absolute musts.

Positano | Photo: Jakob Owens

Positano | Photo: Sander Crombach

Getting out of those salty headwinds means moving east inland to Matera, a journey of around 250 kilometres (approximately 3 hours by car). The jewel of the Basilicata region, Matera is one of the world’s longest continuously inhabited settlements, featuring a Palaeolithic cave network once lived in some 7,000 years ago and built upon with elaborate structures. Today, visitors to Matera can still look across the gorge to see these cave dwellings (known as the Sassi di Matera), staying on one of two sections of Old Matera – Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. On a ridge between the two, sits the town’s duomo (Maria Santissima della Bruna Cathedral); a focal point, recently restored and its walls hung with heritage artworks.

Wander the sloping alleys enjoying the ancient architecture of the town, joining a local tour to better understand the local culture both past and present. Otherwise, go your own way with a visit to the ancient Casa Noha mansion followed by the Museum of Peasant Civilization (both good for general information on the city’s past).

Matera | Photo: Victor Malyushev

Matera | Photo: Sterlinglanier Lanier

5. Bari, Puglia

After a day and night in Matera, it’s on to Bari in the Puglia region, around 110 kilometres away (1 hour 30 minutes by car). Another cathedral (San Sabino) awaits your inspection, this time demonstrating one of Southern Italy’s most important examples of Romanic style, with archaeological remains running underground. Other sites in town include the Aqueduct Building, Petruzzelli Theatre and Norman Castle, with all roads leading to the waterfront and Old Port for a rewarding afternoon stroll. The beaches in the area are also worth a gander, including Lido San Francesco, Lido Sun Beach, and Pane e Pomodoro Beach.

Though Bari is full of heritage and musty archaeology (including the bones of St Nicholas himself at the Basilica di San Nicola), you’ll be pleasantly surprised by its urban nightlife, centred on the town’s grand boulevards and enlivened by its university community. Many visitors will skip Bari on their way to Lecce, Puglia’s more famous big-hitter, but we’d argue to stick around in this bustling port town for at least the night.

Photo: Massimo Virgilio

Puglia | Photo: Eleonora Altomare

6. Explore further Puglia

We’re not done with Puglia yet on our South Italy tour, however, as we still have the whole of Italy’s heel to explore, where myriad fishing villages and heritage towns gather, edged by sandy beaches of both the Adriatic and Ionian Sea.

When weighing up where to go in the region besides the cities of Bari and Lecce, consider a heritage stay in one of Alberobello’s cone-shaped Trulli houses (1 hour by car from Bari), exploring the shops and churches of the UNESCO-listed town by day before moving on to Polignano a Mare (30 minutes towards the coast from Alberobello), a popular resort among locals and tourists for its crystal waters and scenic location.

Last on our Southern Italy Itinerary is another Puglia gem, the city of Taranto, accessible by car in one hour from Bari. Fortified in the 15 th century to protect this coastal city from invasion, though founded as a Greek colony way back in 706 BC Taranto has much medieval and ancient heritage to offer, most notably its Aragonese Castle (otherwise known as Sant’Angelo Castle) and the nearby iron bridge that connects the Greek-Spartan Old Town (once known as Taras) with the commercial New Town across the Mar Piccolo lagoon. For more historical insights from the Magna Grecia territory and the cultural heritage of Southern Italian people, you can head inside the National Archaeological Museum.

Before returning home via Salento Airport (1 hour from Taranto), end your vacation on a high with a 5-hour dolphin cruise, learning about local biodiversity and marine life from the experts at the Jonian Dolphin Conservation Centre.

Alberobello | Photo: Kirsten Velghe

Want to simplify luxury travel planning?

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Positano | Photo: Sebastian Leonhardt

Photo: Vincenzo De Simone

Puglia | Photo: Erika Rigoni

Procida, Naples | Photo: Bea

Photo: Humphrey Muleba

Matera | Photo: Steffen Lemmerzahl

Taranto | Photo: Francesco Nigro

Puglia | Photo: Lucia Gherra

Photo: Jakob Owens

Capri | Photo: Andy Holmes

Photo: Giuseppe Patriarchi

Amalfi | Photo: Alessio Bachetti

Amalfi Coast | Photo: Viktor Ritsvall

Naples | Photo: Sergio Otoya

Photo: Felipe Giacometti

Pompeii Archaeological Park, Pompei | Photo: Andy Holmes

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The Ultimate Rome & Southern Italy Travel Guide

Mar 6, 2024

Your Southern Italy travel guide

Where the pasta is fresher, the cannolis are sweeter, the espresso is stronger and the wine is simply “bellissimo”… 👌  Italy, how we love you. You could go sightseeing for years across this beautiful country in Europe and still never discover (or taste!) everything it has to offer — but we will most certainly try. We hope this Southern Italy Travel Guide is the perfect starting point for discovering everything from the world-famous to the off-the-beaten-path bucket-list destinations across the Southern Italian regions. But above all, toss the guidebook and simply wander. Step aside, Florence, Venice and Cinque Terre, because we’re flying south. “ Andiamo! ” 🧳

Table of Contents

• Travel Tips: Know before you go
• Central Italy : Rome
• Province of Naples : Naples, Sorrento, Capri
• Amalfi Coast : Positano, Ravello, Amalfi
• Western Italy : Bari, Matera
• Island of Sicily : Palermo, Taormina, Syracuse

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Home » blog » 7, 10, 14 Day Southern Italy Itinerary

7, 10, 14 Day Southern Italy Itinerary

• December 27, 2023

If you’re up for a vacation filled with beautiful destinations, loads of culture, and yummy food, Southern Italy is the place to be! Here’s a Southern Italy itinerary guide for 7, 10, or 14 days you can consider. It’s like your golden ticket to discovering all the awesome stuff in Southern Italy. 

So, whether you’re into fast-paced adventures or just wanna take it easy, this guide is your go-to buddy. Let’s explore further.

Table of Contents

A glimpse into southern italy: a combo of history and beauty.

Down in Southern Italy, aka the Mezzogiorno, life can be like a chill Sunday afternoon – laid-back atmosphere, slow pace, and a unique cultural flavor.

And oh, did I forget the landscapes? 

The rolling hills in Puglia and rugged peaks in Basilicata are a feast for the eyes. If you’re into history, there are ancient ruins to geek out on. Honestly, nature lovers – you’re in for some breathtaking views. 

Here’s the bonus: it won’t break the bank. Southern Italy is generally friendlier on the wallet compared to the north. Just a heads up, prices might fluctuate a bit depending on when and where you go. So, if you’re all about good times, good views, and good eats, Southern Italy is calling your name!

Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you:

• Warm weather: Southern Italy boasts a Mediterranean climate, ensuring warm temperatures, especially during the summer months.
• Rich history: Explore ancient sites like Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Matera, providing a fascinating peek into the region’s past.
• Charming towns: Discover the allure of Positano, Sorrento, and Alberobello , where vibrant houses line narrow streets, creating picture-perfect settings.
• Delicious cuisine: Relish mouthwatering dishes like pizza Napoletana , fresh seafood, and regional specialties such as orecchiette pasta and burrata cheese.
• Relaxing atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the unhurried pace of life, embracing the laid-back attitude of Southern Italy.

Planning is Key to a Smooth Journey

Alright, let’s talk about the game plan! For your journey in Southern Italy, we’ve got the ultimate hookup – the Southern Italy Itinerary guide. It’s like your travel BFF, giving you the lowdown on each day of your chosen adventure.

We’re talking about all the details – how to get around, cool places to visit, what to do for fun, and a ballpark on what you might spend. This southern Italy itinerary guide is your one-stop shop for a smooth and super enjoyable trip.

Southern Italy Itinerary 7 Days Trip

The book stalls of Port Alba in Naples  

Day 1: Arrival in Naples

Landed in Napoli – Naples Airport gives you a warm welcome to Italy. Want an arrival tip? Catch the Alibus shuttle and travel with great ease.

As for a place to stay, check out Hotel Napoli Centro. It’s comfy, handy, and only about €120 per night. Tucked in the Spaccanapoli district – where the action is.

Now, drop your bags at the hotel and hit the streets. 

First stop: San Carlo Theatre , a big deal in Euro opera. If you’re not an Opera fan you can skip this.

Once done with the Opera, why not have some delicious pizza? You can taste the pizza masters’ skills at places like Sorbillo and Starita . 

Next up, visit Naples at the National Archaeological Museum . A treasure central with ancient artifacts. You’ll love it if you’re a history buff.

Since you’ll still be left with a lot of time on your hands, take a walk at Lungomare Caracciolo and treat yourself to Naples’ sweet treats at an old-school pastry shop. If you walk until the end, you will end up at Chalet Ciro, a cafe famous amongst locals for Neapolitan sweets. Try the Cono Graffa. You will not find anything like it elsewhere. 

A Cono Graffa at Chalet Ciro – Highly recommended 

Finally, as the sun goes down and it’s evening time, find a dinner spot with a view. I recommend La Stella di Napoli. It offers amazing views and a delicious menu that you won’t be able to resist.

Pro tip: grab a Napoli Card . It’s a golden pass for public transport and discounts. With it, you’re practically a Naples local, cruising around effortlessly.

Day 2: Naples and Pompeii

Start your second day by experiencing a cultural extravaganza at the Royal Palace. You’ll be staring at the royal residence of kings of Naples. The place is huge and is definitely one that you should visit.

When it’s lunchtime in Naples, Pignasecca street market has your back. It’s an unwritten law – if you wanna feel Naples like a local, lunch at the market is a must. 

Now, where are we headed next? Pompeii! While it’s a 35-40 minute ride from Naples, I’d say it’s worth it! So, get ready for a ride on our adventure express to explore old ruins. It’s like time-travel. We’re about to dive into how the Romans lived – no fancy time machines needed.

As the sun sets, Naples lights up for a night out. Have dinner and a stroll through the streets – because who needs sleep in a city that never really goes to bed?

Day 3: Amalfi Coast

Positano – A gem along the Amalfi coast and an essential part of any Southern Italy Itinerary

Begin your third day with a breath of fresh air. This is the day to witness true beauty, cliffs and the sea. And what better place than the Amalfi coast . We recommend that you wake up early for this trip. Wondering why? Well first, it’s a long ferry ride and will probably take an hour and half or even two, to reach there from Naples. NLG and Alilauro are the two ferry routes you can choose from. Well, there’s another option as well. You can take the train to Sorrento and then a bus.

This ferry ride will let you experience sailing off into the sunset, drawn by the charm of Positano’s cliffs. 

Picture those cute, colorful houses, the sweet aroma of limoncello in the air, and views that make you feel like you’re in a dolce vita daydream.

Amalfi coast offers some of the best activities. You can hike the path of Gods or relax at the Furore beach if you want a calmer and more soothing day. 

When you have seen enough of the sea, go back and wander around its lovely streets. Get lost in the small, narrow paths, find hidden treasures, and discover cute shops selling handmade pottery and local crafts. Enjoy a delicious scoop of gelato as you stroll through the charming squares.

For dinner, try the local flavors. Choose a restaurant by the sea, where you can enjoy the fresh catch of the day while listening to the calming sounds of the waves. Let the sea breeze and the tasty food create a beautiful experience that you’ll remember.

Day 4: Sorrento Excursion

Rise and shine, adventurer. It’s the 4th day already! And Sorrento is calling you. It’s a coastal wonder that’s practically begging to be a part of your Southern Italy itinerary guide. And hey, who knew a place named after lemons could be so appealing? Dive into the lemon-scented air, take a stroll through the lively streets, and maybe treat yourself to a limoncello tasting – because when life gives you lemons, make Limoncello!

So, you know the drill by now. We have to find a way to reach Sorrento. Now, you have two options – You can either choose the ferry ride or take a bus. Note that the ferry ride will take an hour and 38 minutes, while traveling in a bus will take more than two hours to reach Sorrento.

When you reach Sorrento, expect a busy day with lots of activities to try. It involves ascending to Sorrento’s clifftop, surrounded by views that would make your Instagram followers jealous. And guess what? That’s just the warm-up for the grand spectacle that is Sorrento.

Our next destinations are closer to the Amalfi coast, so I suggest that you stay here rather than going back to Naples.

Day 5: Positano and Ravello Retreat

Positano is like a living painting, with colorful houses clinging to the cliffs and giving off serious vacation vibes. Take a stroll through its twisty-turny streets, check out cool boutiques, and chill at cafes that redefine what it means to have a coastal view.

For beach lovers, Spiaggia Grande is the place to be. Picture yourself on those sun-soaked sands, with clear waters inviting you to just relax. Grab a seaside spot at a trattoria, let the sea breeze do its thing, and dive into some local eats.

Before ending your day, do head to Ravello. It’s like this hilltop paradise with villas and gardens that are basically art and nature having a love affair. Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo are the stars of the show.

Dinner time? Pick a cliffside joint in Ravello. Imagine twinkling lights below, stars above – it’s a celestial masterpiece.

Day 6: Capri Pleasures

Capri Beach

Our next destination in the Southern Italy Itinerary is Capri –

Capri is like the Beyoncé of islands – gorgeous, famous, and everyone’s crazy about it. Grab a ferry, go kayaking, soak up the stunning blue waters, and snap pics of the amazing views for your Insta. Keep in mind that it’ll take an entire day to enjoy Capri because there’s so much to do here.

Wander around the cute streets, hit up fancy shops, and grab a little souvenir from the local craft scene. Basically, it’s like going on a shopping spree with an epic backdrop.

And because we’re all about that sweet life (Dolce Vita, baby!), end your day with a feast. Whether you’re dining on a cliff or in an Italian joint, let the flavors of Capri’s seafood amaze you. Perfect way to cap off a day full of coastal beauty and island charm.

Day 7: Departure

And just like that, it’s your last morning in this awesome place. Take it easy – enjoy your espresso, soak up the moment, and let the Naples sun warm you up.

Time to check out. Pack up your memories, say bye to your Neapolitan adventure- it’s been great.

Hop on the shuttle to Naples Airport, where your ride to the sky is waiting. Bye-bye, Naples! It’s departure time, but keep the spirit of Southern Italy with you.

Southern Italy Itinerary 10 Days Trip

So, you want to have an extended vacation? I’ve got your back. Keep reading for an extended Southern Italy Itinerary

Additional Days in Matera: Unearthing Treasures

Day 8: explore the sassi district – an odyssey into matera’s heart.

Sassi di Matera

Day 8 is like a time machine taking you to Matera’s Sassi District. It’s not just history; it’s history carved in the stone beneath your feet. The Sassi caves are homes that tell stories of Matera’s past, and they even got a UNESCO gold star.

Imagine this: You are wandering through these ancient cave homes, following the footsteps of many before you. It’s not just looking around; it’s like time-traveling without all the sci-fi stuff. The Sassi District is like Matera’s heart, and you’re becoming part of its living history.

Now, let’s jump ahead a bit. After exploring the caves, bring in some modern energy. Matera isn’t all about the past; it’s into the ‘now’ with its contemporary art museums. You’ll see art that surprises you, installations that make you think, and Matera saying, “We’re not stuck in the past.”

As the day moves to afternoon, let Matera charm you with its ancient streets. Cobblestones under your feet, golden buildings around – Matera is saying, “Let’s take a stroll through time.” No rush, no plan – just you enjoying Matera’s timeless charm.

Find hidden spots, maybe stumble upon a cozy café, and feel Matera’s vibe. The Sassi District isn’t just about buildings; it’s about moments, and Matera wants you to enjoy each one.

Now, imagine an evening in a local Matera restaurant. Dinner isn’t just eating; it’s a big celebration of local flavors. Matera’s food scene is the star, not just a side thing.

From pasta to desserts, each dish is like a shout-out to Matera’s food history. It’s not just a meal; it’s like getting a culinary hug from Matera’s kitchen.

Day 9: Day Trip to Alberobello and Locorotondo – Trulli Tales and Hilltop Whispers

Day 9 is all about unlocking nearby wonders. Start your day with breakfast in Matera, then head to Alberobello , a magical town famous for its Trulli houses. Imagine walking into a storybook where houses look like they have pointy hats, and the streets tell enchanting tales.

Explore the Rione Monti district in Alberobello, where narrow streets share the history of these unique cone-shaped homes. These Trulli houses aren’t just pretty; they’re storytellers approved by UNESCO, sharing Alberobello’s special story.

Don’t miss Trullo Sovrano, the big boss of Trulli houses with a museum inside. It’s not just a home; it’s like a piece of living history, ready to spill its secrets. Picture yourself walking through its cozy rooms, feeling the echoes of the past.

After all that exploring, it’s time for lunch. Find a local spot and dig into Puglian delights. Orecchiette pasta with fresh burrata cheese? Absolutely! It’s not just a meal; it’s like a dance of flavors in your mouth.

Later on, your adventure takes you to Locorotondo, a hilltop gem with white houses and winding streets. It’s not just a town; it’s like a picture waiting for your footsteps. Take a stroll, enjoy the views, and let Locorotondo’s charm put a smile on your face.

As the sun starts to set, let’s add a touch of Puglian joy – wine! Visit a local wine bar or winery, where you can sip and savor the local wines. Enjoy the evening in Locorotondo’s enchanting vibe.

When the stars come out, wrap up your day in Alberobello and Locorotondo. Head back to Matera with a heart full of stories and a camera packed with memories.

Day 10: Tranquil Retreat in Tropea

Tropea Beach

Wave goodbye to Matera and say hi to Tropea, a cool coastal spot with cliffs, sandy beaches, and clear blue waters. Start your day with a chill breakfast by the Tyrrhenian Sea, getting ready for a mix of relaxation and exploring.

Tropea’s beaches are like those perfect postcard pictures. Spend your morning on Tropea Beach, soaking up the sun with a view of Santa Maria dell’Isola church on the cliff. Whether you want to take a swim or just enjoy the sun, let the calming waves be your background music.

Grab lunch at a local spot – could be a trattoria or a seafood place. Taste the yummy flavors of Calabrian cuisine while enjoying awesome views of the coast. Fresh seafood and local dishes are waiting to please your taste buds.

In the afternoon, take a casual walk through Tropea’s old town. Check out the architecture of the Norman Cathedral, stroll through colorful shops in narrow alleys, and find hidden spots that tell Tropea’s interesting history. 

Don’t forget to see the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola – it’s like Tropea’s famous landmark.

If you’re feeling a bit adventurous? Maybe think about a boat trip to the nearby Aeolian Islands. These volcanic islands have some unique sights, and a day trip lets you explore them.

It’s natural to feel tired after an adventurous activity, so, find a comfy spot to catch the Tropea sunset. Whether it’s by the beach or from a nice viewpoint. The golden colors reflecting on the sea create pure magic. Snap some pics or just enjoy the beauty of nature.

End your day with a tasty dinner in one of Tropea’s cozy restaurants. Try local specialties like ‘nduja (spicy Calabrian sausage) and handmade pasta.

Note: If you’re planning to continue your journey towards Puglia, you may consider heading to Bari for the next leg of your adventure. Alternatively, if you prefer to explore more of Calabria, you could stay in Tropea for another day before making your way to Puglia.

Southern Italy Itinerary 14 Days Trip

If you want a 14 day southern Italy Itinerary then keep going. We have your back. 

Day 11: Ostuni and Polignano a Mare – A Tale of Whitewashed Marvels and Cliffside Wonders

It’s Day 11, and the sun is making Ostuni, the “White City,” look like a fairy tale. Picture walking through narrow streets with buildings all shiny and white, like pearls in the Italian sun.

Now, let’s jump to the afternoon adventure in Polignano a Mare (About an hour from Ostuni). It’s a town by the sea, and when you get there, it’s like looking at a real-life postcard. The sea sparkles, the town is hugging cliffs, and you can explore caves along the coastline.

And guess what? The day isn’t over until you’ve had an Italian dinner. Find a nice spot in a restaurant in Polignano with a view. Imagine enjoying local food while the sun sets, painting the sea in orange and pink colors. It’s like having dinner with a show, Puglian style. We recommend Pescaria , but you may have to wait in line. 

Day 12: Cooking Class in Bari – Where Old Town Meets Culinary Mastery

Bari Old Town

Morning vibes on Day 12 start with a leisurely walk through Bari’s historic Old Town. Think cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and an undeniable sense of history hugging you like an old friend. 

Hold onto your apron strings because the afternoon is a hands-on affair – a date with Puglian cuisine. Imagine yourself in a lively kitchen, rocking an apron, ready to uncover the mysteries behind local dishes. It’s not just a cooking class; it’s a full-on plunge into Puglian flavors.

Now, let’s talk about dinner. As the sun takes its bow and the evening kicks in, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your culinary adventure. What’s on the menu, you ask? Well, only the delicious creations you whipped up during the class.

Day 13: Gargano National Park – Nature’s Embrace and Coastal Bliss

A view of Gargano National Park

Ready for a day in nature’s playground? Day 13 whisks you away to Gargano National Park. Forests, mountains, and beaches, all wrapped up in one delightful package. It’s like stepping into a postcard, only this time, you’re in the picture.

Explore the Forest Umbra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where ancient beech trees stand tall. 

Next stop: Monte Sant’Angelo, a place of pilgrimage with caves and views that will leave you in awe. It’s a spiritual journey in the heart of nature.

Time to trade the forest for the beach. Vieste, with its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, is your playground. Whether you’re dipping your toes, snorkeling, or just basking in the sun, Vieste is coastal bliss at its best.

Bid adieu to Gargano and return to Bari. Evening in Bari might bring the enchantment of its historic streets or a relaxed dinner by the sea. The choice is yours.

Day 14: Brindisi – Gateway to the Adriatic

Time for a scenic adventure as Day 13 takes you to Brindisi. You’ve got options – either buckle up for a picturesque drive or kick back on a relaxing train journey. Watch as Matera’s rocky charm morphs into Brindisi’s coastal allure. It’s like going from one cool story to the next.

Once you hit Brindisi, dive headfirst into its maritime legacy. Check out the Roman Columns, proudly standing at the harbor’s edge, and imagine ancient ships docking here like they owned the place. Take a stroll along the Seafront Promenade, breathe in that Adriatic breeze, and let the waves whisper some maritime tales.

Time for a seafood feast! Lunch at a waterfront joint is a must. Brindisi knows how to do coastal cuisine right, so indulge in some fresh seafood dishes. Take your time – not just for the flavors but also for those panoramic Adriatic views.

Now, wander through Brindisi’s Old Town. Cobblestone streets lead you to gems like the Aragonese Castle and the Cathedral. It’s like a walk through history – you can practically feel the centuries in the air.

Feeling cultural? Hit up the Archaeological Museum to dig into Brindisi’s ancient past. Get a peek at artifacts that tell tales of this city being a crossroads for civilizations through the ages.

As the day gracefully glides into evening, head to Punta Riso for a sunset view over the Adriatic. Find a quiet spot, soak it in, and let the memories of Matera mix with the allure of Brindisi.

For your grande finale, dinner in one of Brindisi’s lively piazzas is a must. Pick a spot where you can munch on regional goodies and sip local wines.

And, that winds up your Southern Italy itinerary 14 days trip!

General Tips and Highlights: Your Southern Italy Helper

Alright, let’s chat about the practical stuff to make your Southern Italy trip super smooth. These tips should help you breeze through the ins and outs of transportation, where to lay your head, what tasty treats to try, the cool cultural spots, and all those everyday details.

Transportation: Getting Around the Southern Magic

Think About Flights and Airports: So, where are you landing? Naples is a big deal, but don’t forget about Bari and Brindisi – they’re pretty convenient too. Think not just about the place but also about the journey. It’s like choosing the best ride for your adventure.

Try a Car Rental for Puglia: Ever dreamt of driving along the coast, feeling the wind in your hair? Renting a car is like having a key to all of Puglia’s hidden gems. It’s not just a car; it’s your ticket to Puglia’s secret spots. T his is highly recommended in Southern Italy!

Note: Btw, you won’t find any taxi sharing services such as Uber here! So, renting a car is one of the best options here.

Accommodation: Where Sweet Dreams Begin

Check Out Places to Stay in Matera: Matera is an amazing place with unique stays. From caves to cozy guesthouses, where you sleep is part of the adventure. Find a stay that feels like home.

Pick a Nice Stay in Puglia’s Old Towns: As you dive into Puglia, where you sleep is like being part of its history. A trullo in Alberobello or a historic Masseria surrounded by olive trees? It’s not just a bed; it’s your backstage pass to Puglia’s stories.

Safety and Smart Moves: Navigating Everyday Stuff

Stay Healthy and Safe: Safety always comes first! Southern Italy’s charm shines even brighter when you’re feeling great. Pack some sunscreen, drink water, and don’t hesitate to ask the locals if you feel lost. And, yes – Google maps is also sufficient for directions.

Handle Money Stuff: When you’re exploring Southern Italy, it’s good to have a bit of cash, but using Visa or Mastercard is usually easy. American Express might not work everywhere, especially outside of hotels. So, it’s smart to have another card, just in case

With these tips, you’re all set to venture into a memorable Southern Italy Itinerary of your life. The stage is yours; let the Southern magic take your breath away!

Happy Travels!

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Southern Italy itinerary – Best places to visit

Southern Italy is full of history, cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. If you only have 10 days for your visit, you can try this itinerary through the main cities to get a general overview of this area and come back in the future to further explore your favorite destinations.

Table of Contents

Best time to visit Southern Italy

Spring. The weather is warm (without being hot, like during summer months) and there are fewer tourists around, so that you can enjoy both the cities and the natural landscapes at their best. In May, you can also enjoy some “beach life” and have a swim!

Southern Italy itinerary overview

This Southern Italy itinerary includes the following places of interest: 

• Amalfi Coast (Positano, Praiano, Amalfi and Ravello)
• Alberobello

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Where to sleep in Southern Italy

Where to stay in naples.

Here are two great hotel recommndations for your stay in Naples.

Renaissance Naples Hotel Mediterraneo

This 4-star hotel, a member of the Marriott Group, is located centrally close to the main attractions of Naples and the ferry terminal. Rooms are comfortable and modern while the rooftop where breakfast is served has lovely views of the Bay, Castel Nuovo, and Mount Vesuvius.

Click here for more information and to check the latest prices.

Grand Hotel Europa – Sea Hotels Group

Located near the main station, this hotel is an excellent choice for those thinking about visiting Pompeii or the Amalfi Coast. It provides excellent 3-star value with comfortable rooms including Wi-Fi, satellite TV, air-con and safe.

Click here for more information and to book the Grand Hotel Europa.

For more hotel recommendations check out my post where to stay in Naples here .

Where to stay in Matera:

You shall definitely seize the opportunity to sleep in Sassi district (or even in a real Sasso!) to enjoy this beautiful scenery, both day and night. On my visit to Matera I stayed at the :

Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita

Located in the Sassi area of Matera, this luxury hotel offers rooms with stone floors and antique furnishing.  Room Amenities include Wi-Fi and air-conditioning, The hotel also offers a terrace with panoramic views of the Murgia National Park. This was one of the most unique and beautiful hotels I have stayed.

Click here for more information and to book your room. 

Another great option for your stay in Matera is the Hotel Sassi . 

Where to stay in Bari

The best districts to stay are Murat if you want to enjoy the local nightlife and some shopping. and the Old Town if you want a picturesque location.

A great hotel option in the Murat area is the Bari Oriente and in the Old Town the Palace Hotel .

Where to stay in Taranto

If you are traveling by car and you are happy to stay outside of Taranto, I recommend the Masseria Amastuola Wines and Resort . 

It is located in Crispiano 17 km away from Taranto and 40 km away from Alberobello the Masseria dates back to the 15th century. It is surrounded by 170 hectares of olive trees and vineyards and its rooms feature hand painted tiles against a dark wood background or simple white tiled backsplash. Each room has its own private bathroom and seating area with comfy chairs. Luxurious toiletries, wifi, and exceptional service are included in the room rate.

Click here for more information and to book a room.

If you are looking to stay inside Taranto a great option is  Viale Virgilio, that is the main waterfront walk. 

In Viale Virgilio a great option is the Mercure Delfino Hotel .

A 10 day Southern Italy itinerary

Southern italy itinerary: day 1 arrive in naples.

Your 10-days itinerary starts in Naples.

How to get there? The best solution is a flight arriving at Capodichino Airport. From there, you can reach the city center either by car or by bus (it will only take about 20 minutes). For more information about airport shuttles visit here. Naples is also very well connected to the main Italian cities by train in case you arrive from somewhere else. 

In the afternoon, you can start your visit from San Carlo Theater . It is the oldest Opera House in Europe which is still active today and it represents one of the most important cultural institution in Italy. Enjoy a guided tour in English to discover its neoclassical decorations and its history.

You can now head to Piazza del Plebiscito , one of the largest historical squares in Italy and visit the Royal Palace . Don’t miss its roof garden with their beautiful view of the city and the sea;

Day 2: Explore Naples 

Start you day with a visit to Maschio Angioino Castle (also named Castel Nuovo ), which is one of the most iconic monuments of the city.

Have a walk in via Calabritto , which is the ultimate shopping destination in Naples, and reach Vittoria Square . This is one of the most important places in town, which celebrates the victory of the Christians over the Turkish during Lepanto battle (1571 A.C.). In front of the sea, you can notice the so-called “broken column”, a monument dedicated to the people who died at sea;

In the afternoon, you can have a tour of the underground city : it is a guided tour lasting 1 hour and taking you to hidden places like narrow alleys, reservoirs, archeological remains and other places located about 40 meters underground. You can find a Roman theater from Nerone’s Age, but also the shelters people used during World War II. For more information and to book a tour click here.

To breathe some fresh air, have a walk along Spaccanapoli , that is the main street going through the whole ancient city center;

You might also like my 3-day Naples itinerary.

Day 3: Day Trip to Pompeii and Sorento

Today, head to Pompei . How to get there? It takes 35 minutes by train and 30 minutes by car, so it’s really close to Naples city center. Pompei would require at least a whole day of visit to be fully explored, but if you only have 3 or 4 hours don’t miss the Foro, the Teatro Grande, The Terme Stabiane and Casa del Fauno. 

Tip: There will be queues in Pompeii so booking in advance allows you to get in quickly and not waste your time otherwise be there as soon as the archaeological site opens.

Here are a few options that I recommend:

• If you want just to skip the line and see the archaeological site on your own I suggest that you buy a fast track entrance ticket .
• If you would like to do a guided tour and also skip the lines I suggest this 2 hour skip the line guided tour .

You can spend the afternoon in Sorrento . It requires a 45 minutes’ drive from Pompei, but you can also reach it by train in 30 minutes. What you cannot miss: Tasso Square, Corso Italia, San Francesco Cloister, Villa Comunale, the Cathedral and, if you have enough time, the mills’ gorge. Late in the afternoon, you can go back to Naples.

Day 4: Day Trip to the Amalfi Coast

Day trip to Amalfi Coast . The best solution is driving all day with a rented car and go from village to village or take a guided tour doing the same thing by bus. Amalfi coast has plenty of picturesque villages, beautiful beaches and landscapes and you cannot choose one single destination. Moreover, driving there it’s an amazing experience as well, because of the panoramic road giving you the chance to take wonderful pictures. You can choose to stop at 2 locations in the morning and 2 locations in the afternoon, to make the best of your day.

Some suggestions:

• Positano: you need about 1h15 to get there from Naples, but you cannot miss Spiaggia Grande (Large Beach), because it’s one of the most popular locations of the entire coast and it has one of the most typical views you can think of. If you go there in summer, it’s best to skip it, because it will be too crowded!
• Praiano : a picturesque village with the beautiful San Gennaro Church decorated with a traditional majolica floor;

• Amalfi: it is a real town and not just a village and it is the main location of the coast. It was once one of the Italian Maritime Republics together with Pisa, Genova and Venice. Amalfi has plenty of works of art and pieces of heritage and it would require an entire day of sightseeing. Anyway, make sure you visit the Cathedral and the Paradise Cloister;
• Ravello: one of the most iconic places in Ravello is Villa Rufolo, which is located in the center of the village and offers a beautiful and relaxing garden;

In the evening, you can choose to go back to Naples or to stop at a typical restaurant along the way to experience a traditional dinner watching the sunset on the sea.

You might be interested in: The best towns to visit in the Amalfi coast

and my Amalfi Coast itinerary.

Southern Italy Itinerary Day 5 : Head to Matera 

Head to Matera, in Basilicata. How to get there? It takes 4 hours by train and 3 hours by car;

Start your visit from Casa Noha . It is an ancient mansion where you can see digital videos and multimedia materials explaining the story of the city. It is the best starting point of a sightseeing tour and it offers all the general information you may need;

Late in the afternoon, you can still have a look at the Maria Santissima della Bruna Cathedral , which has been recently restored and it’s definitely worth a visit for its many works of art.

Day 6: Explore Matera

Today it’s time to explore Sassi, that is the ancient historical districts of the city, entirely built of local stone inside the rocks themselves. The two districts are named Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano and they are located on two slopes creating a sort of natural amphitheater.

You can either visit them alone and wander through their narrow alleys admiring the buildings or take a guided tour. There are many local guides and tour operators offering daily tours, so that you can have a look on the internet and message them before your arrival;

Later in the afternoon, you should also visit the Museum of Peasant Civilization, to better understand local culture and the way people used to live here.

You might be interested in this 2-hour walking tour of the Sassi. 

Day 7: Bari or Murgia Materana Natural Park 

Option 1: travel to Bari , in Puglia. How to get there? You can take a bus and arrive in Bari in just 1 hour. Flixbus Company has really cheap tickets and frequent rides ( https://global.flixbus.com/ ). Once you get there, make sure to visit San Sabino Cathedral , that is one of the most important examples of Romanic style in Southern Italy. Visit also its underground archeological remains. In the afternoon, you can either stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the beautiful scenery or relax on the beach!

Option 2: if you prefer to continue exploring Basilicata Region, have a trip to Murgia Materana Natural Park . It is only 20 minutes away from Matera and you can also enjoy a guided tour letting you discover its natural landscapes at sunset or dawn. This area is a natural-historic-cultural site hosting some ancient rocky churches and a wide range of local flora and fauna.

Day 8 : Explore further Puglia 

Depending on your interests you can choose one of the below options. One of my favorite things to do in the area is a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alberobello.

Option 1: day trip to Alberobello . You can reach this village by train from Bari (1h30) or by car (1 hour). Its main attraction consists of its typical stone houses named “Trulli”. This is a World Heritage site and you can spend the whole day here, since there are many examples of buildings, churches and shops to explore;

Option 2: head to Bari and spend your day visiting the city. Ideal sightseeing for 1 day: San Sabino Cathedral, Aqueduct Building, Petruzzelli Theater, Old Port, Norman Castle and waterfront;

Option 3: one day on the beach in of the best beaches in the area: Lido San Francesco all’Arena, Pane & Pomodoro Beach or Lido Sun Beach;

Option 4: one day on the beach in Polignano a Mare , a seaside resort near Bari. You can reach it by train (about 35 minutes) and enjoy a relaxing day on its most popular beach named Cala Monachile. Its beautiful scenery and its transparent water make it the favorite location for both locals and tourists. Visit also the picturesque city center.

Day 9 : Explore Taranto

Head to Taranto , another important city in Puglia. You can easily reach it by train from Bari (about 1 hour);

The most popular attraction is Aragonese Castle (also called Sant’Angelo Castle), which is an ancient fort built on the coastline to protect the city during the XVth century 

Don’t miss the swing bridge nearby: it is an iron bridge connecting the New Town with Old Town Island;

If you still have a couple of hours, visit the National Archeological Museum to better understand the history of the city and the whole Magna Grecia territory (Southern Italy in general).

Day 10 Taranto 

Spend you last day in Taranto on a 5-hours cruise to see dolphins and listen to a dedicated biologist explaining the local biodiversity. You can participate in the program “Researcher for a Day” at the Jonian Dolphin Conservation Center ; That was one of my absolutely favorite activities in the area.

To come back home, you can either catch a flight at Salento Airport in Brindisi (1-hour drive from Taranto) or leave by train from the main railway station. Either way, you’ll have direct connections with all the main Italian cities.

What to taste during this Southern Italy Itinerary

Naples: pizza, of course! If you are there during the Easter month, taste also “pastiera”, a typical tart made with ricotta and orange flower water.

Sorrento: for a typical lunch, taste “gnocchi alla sorrentina”. It’s a simple dish made of gnocchi, tomato sauce, mozzarella and basil.

Amalfi Coast: have a romantic dinner in front of the sea tasting “scialatielli allo scoglio”, that is the local pasta shape with a seafood sauce. After dinner, don’t forget to ask for a glass of Limoncello, that is the famous liqueur produced with local lemons.

Matera: local bread is one of most prized Italian gastronomic products and it’s also the perfect ingredient for local “bruschetta”. They can be tasted as a snack, a quick lunch or an appetizer before dinner.

Bari: the main local dish is pasta with turnip greens and anchovies. If you feel like a quick snack, search for the next bakery and ask for some “taralli” (savory crackers).

Taranto: for street food lovers there’s a perfect lunch consisting in “panzerotto tarantino”, that is a small fried “calzone” stuffed with mozzarella and tomato sauce.

Have you decided to stay longer in Southern Italy? You might be interested in:

• Things to do in Puglia.
• Thinking of extending your stay to Sicily island? Check out my 5 day Sicily itinerary and the best things to do in Palermo .
• Explore the off- the- beaten -track  places in Puglia
• Wondering what to pack for your Italy vacation from May to October? Check my post here . 

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Best Italian Road Trips: 16 Super Dreamy Routes

Italian road trips are the best. Whether you love strolling through cities, towns, and villages or exploring the country’s natural scenery, Italy is a fantastic road trip destination and it never disappoints.

The views will always be dreamy, the culture will always be fascinating, and the food will always be delicious.

With so much beauty in this country, it can be difficult to decide which area to choose for your scenic drive, so here’s a roundup of the best road trips in Italy that will hopefully help you make this almost impossible decision.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Table of Contents

Best Italian Road Trips on the Mainland

Southern italy.

By Nicole from Adventures of Nicole

Route:  Circular starting in Naples.

Days:  15 days (13-17 days is comfortable).

In a perfect mixture of off-the-beaten-path and well-trodden classics, this Southern Italy road trip takes in the most-loved stops in the regions of Campania , Basilicata , Puglia , and Calabria , as well as their hidden gems .

Starting from the capital of Campania,  Naples , take a day or so to explore the historical sites that the city has to offer.

Some of the best things to do in Naples include exploring the historic center, grabbing some arancini, pizza fritta (fried pizza), and sfogliatelle, and heading to Gino Sorbillo’s pizzeria for one of his famed pizzas.

After your whirlwind visit to Naples, head south and spend 2- 4 days on the Amalfi Coast .

Explore the gorgeous towns of Positano , Amalfi , Atrani , and Ravello that seem impossibly clung to the side of the mountainous coast that appears to tumble into the sea.

Continuing south from the Amalfi Coast, you’ll enter the little-visited region of Basilicata and on to two of the most beautiful places in all of Italy – Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa . These side-by-side towns are built right into the Lucian Dolomites.

From Castelmezzano, you’ll journey deeper into Basilicata and visit  Matera .

Once the ‘shame of Italy,’ the troglodytic city has risen from the ashes to become a European Capital of Culture and a UNESCO site. Among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, don’t miss the fascinating caves of the Sassi di Matera.

Heading into  Puglia , you’ll visit the bizarre conical-roofed Trulli of Alberobello, the gorgeous caves of Grotta dell’Poesia, and the thermal baths of Santa Cesarea Terme before heading back into Basilicata to explore the nature of  Pollino National Park  en route to Calabria.

In  Calabria , you’ll laze on the beautiful beaches in and around  Tropea  and explore the untamed beaches and cave of Grotto dell’Arcomagno.

Head back north to  Maratea , your jumping-off point to the little-known cousin of Amalfi – the  Cilento Coast , where you’ll wrap up your epic road trip before turning your car back in up in Naples. Plan your own  Southern Italy road trip here .

By Krisztina from She Wanders Abroad

Route:  From Ortisei to Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Days:  4-5.

If you want to discover one of the most stunning areas in Northern Italy, you have to plan a  road trip to the Dolomites  for your next vacation!

It’s best to explore the Dolomites by car, so you can either bring your own if you live nearby or rent a car at the airport when you arrive in Italy.

Although there are no international airports in the area, bigger airports such as Venice, Bergamo, or Milan are only a few hours away from the Dolomites. This makes it easy to visit the region, even if you are coming from overseas.

The Dolomites cover more than 140,000 hectares in several regions, so you can spend several weeks exploring the area without getting bored, but if you only have a shorter amount of time, 4-5 days are enough to discover the highlights.

Since the best places to visit in the Dolomites are quite far from each other, it’s best to choose two bases for your road trip from where you can explore the nearby area with less driving.

In the first part of your road trip to Italy’s Dolomites, stay in  Ortisei , which is a cute little town located in  Val Gardena (in South Tyrol).

From there, you can visit the famous  Alpe di Siusi ,  Lago di Carezza , the Seceda ridgeline, and the picturesque church of Santa Maddalena in  Val di Funes .

Cortina d’Ampezzo  is one of the most popular places to stay, and it will be the perfect base for the second half of your Dolomites road trip as you can easily reach the Insta-famous  Lago di Braies  or the iconic three peaks at  Tre Cime di Lavaredo  from there.

It’s best to stay at least 2 nights at each place to have time to properly explore their surroundings!

By Marek from Indie Traveller

Route:  Circular starting in Bari.

Days:  7.

Puglia is a highly underrated region of Italy that’s just made for a road trip.

It’s filled with ancient history, cute coastal towns, and great regional culinary delights, though without the crowds often found on the tourist trail elsewhere in Italy.

Start in the port city of  Bari , then drive a circle around the Puglia peninsula (recognizable as the ‘heel of Italy’s boot’). The ancient city of  Lecce , often billed as a kind of mini-Florence but without the crowds, is a must-stop along the way.

The true delights, though, are the small towns with white-plastered houses along the coast, such as  Monopoli  and  Otranto , many of them boasting old Venetian fortresses and some of the best beaches in Puglia .

Looping back to Bari, be sure to stop by  Alberobello . It’s a town known for its ‘Trulli’ – small conical buildings that were once used as farmhouses, but these days often function as souvenir shops or little holiday homes.

Staying in a Trullo is a unique experience you can’t have anywhere else.

Puglia is a wonderful region to explore by car, but do take care when driving; the Italians around here are known to be quite reckless drivers at times! Be sure to check out these  tips for a road trip in Puglia .

Read more about Puglia:

• Best places to stay in Bari
• Things to do in Bari
• Day trips from Bari
• Puglia itinerary without a car
• Hidden gems in Puglia
• Is Bari worth visiting
• Visiting Puglia in March

Northern Italy: Lakes Garda, Como, Maggiore, and Orta

Route:  Circular starting in Milan.

Northern Italy’s lakes are an ideal European road trip destination from Milan (especially if you want to spend fall or spring in Europe ).

From colorful coastal towns to relaxing beaches to natural landscapes, this area offers an interesting mix of things to do and see.

This one-week  Italian lakes road trip  can easily be extended to 10 or even 14 days if you want to visit a few more places or spend some time resting by the lakes.

Rent your car at Milan’s airport and head to  Lake Garda , the largest in the country. Dedicate at least 3-4 days to this lake and explore towns like Limone , Sirmione , Malcesine , Bardolino , and Borghetto sul Mincio .

Don’t miss the mesmerizing turquoise Lake Tenno , situated only a few miles away from Garda’s northern coast.

Continue to  Lake Como , which is mostly known for its luxurious lakeside villas. Towns like Varenna and Bellagio are its crowning glory, but there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in the area.

The third lake,  Lake Maggiore , is the one that often gets overlooked, yet visiting it is one of the best things to do in northern Italy .

Base yourself in  Stresa , and visit places like the nearby Borromean Islands  (easily accessible by ferry or boat) and the lesser-known Cannobio .

Before heading back to Milan, be sure to stop at the charming  Orta San Giulio  on  Lake Orta .

Rome to Florence

By Tiffany from A Girl and Her Passport

Route:  Rome to Florence.

Days:  5.

Traveling from Rome to Florence is probably one of the best driving routes in Italy. This road trip takes you through the gorgeous countryside of Umbria and Tuscany .

A  road trip from Rome to Florence  is very short if you want to make no stops along the way, but where is the fun in that? You can make the trip in as little as two days or make it a longer trip of up to five days. 

Most people will rent a car at the Rome airport, so if you want to see the city first, you should do this before renting a car.

You can plan a short itinerary of just 24 hours in Rome , but the Italian capital has so much to offer, that it would be best to spend at least 4 days in Rome .

Once you leave the city, head to the  Parco di Monstri – this outdoor sculpture garden is unlike any art you might have seen, and it has a slightly creepy history.

In Umbria, there are several cute towns to visit that have fascinating histories. Amelia , supposedly the oldest Umbrian town, has 11-foot-thick walls and winding alleyways to explore.

Assisi is the hometown of St. Francis and has many stunning churches to visit. The view from the Rocca Maggiore castle is one of the best in Italy.

Tuscany brings its own beautiful villages, including Siena and Cortona , from ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ fame.

Be sure to watch where you park in these towns as the parking can be restricted to residents only. Usually, there is a public car park on the outskirts of town.

Most of all, take time to enjoy the scenery of this stunning road trip from Rome to Florence.

You can also check out this 7-day Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary !

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Route:  Circular starting in Florence.

One of the best scenic drives in Italy is a trip through Tuscany.

With this  7-day Tuscany road trip itinerary , you can cover the best places to visit in the region, enjoy the art and architecture, take great photos, and relish fabulous food and wine along the way.

Begin your trip with 1 or 2 days in  Florence , the region’s capital and the cradle of the Renaissance.

In Florence, climb to the top of the Duomo for fabulous views, wander the streets of the historic center (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and take in the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo. Don’t forget to gorge on gelato!

From Florence, head southeast, to the lesser-visited but very beautiful towns of Arezzo and Cortona . With beautiful architecture and lively main squares, these small towns will charm you.

Your next stop is  Siena , possibly Italy’s most famous hill town. Its Duomo is magnificent, as well as its Piazza del Campo, one of the largest squares in Europe and one of the prettiest piazzas in Italy .

From Siena, move on to the scenic  Val d’Orcia , where you can stop at old historic abbeys, small picturesque hill towns, and even one of the best hot springs in Tuscany .

Do make time to sample the local pici pasta and famous local wines, and visit some vineyards as well!

On the western side of your loop around Tuscany, you will visit  San Gimignano , with its famous medieval towers, and  Lucca , famous for its medieval city walls (though you’ll find plenty of other things to do in Lucca ).

You can also stop in  Pisa , to see the famous Leaning Tower, before you head back to Florence.

Bologna Apennines

By Lori from Travelinmad

Route:  Circular starting in Bologna.

Days:  2-3.

If you’ve visited the over-touristy cities in Italy like Venice, Florence, and Rome and are seeking somewhere without crowds, base yourself in Bologna, rent a car, and  road trip the Bologna Apennines .

The small towns, scenic wilderness areas, and incredible historic sites are all within a one-hour drive from Bologna.

The Bologna Apennines are south of the city and easily accessible. Use a GPS to explore winding roads with overviews around nearly every bend.

One of the best things to experience is the incredible local food. The small hamlets all have one or two great places to eat.

On a weekend drive a pleasant 28 miles from Bologna, is the mysterious Rocchetta Mattei , a 19th-century fortress with a fascinating past and wild architecture. You’ll need a reservation, but that’s easy to do at the tourism office in Bologna.

Along the same road is the 13th-century sparsely habited village of Borgo La Scola . It’s quiet and interesting… and you might even get to chat with one of the few residents.

You’ll find the town of Tolé fascinating with its incredible murals and artworks lining the narrow lanes. And don’t miss the town of Vignola and its amazing castle, the Rocca di Vignola. The entrance is free, and if you’d like a tour in English, you’ll need a reservation.

If you’re looking for offbeat Italy road trip routes, the Bologna Apennines are definitely slow travel at its best.

Northern Italy: Veneto and Trentino Regions

By Emily from London City Calling

Route:  Circular starting in Verona.

Days:  10.

Starting and finishing in Verona, this 10-day northern Italy road trip itinerary will let you see the best of the diverse regions of Veneto and Trentino , with their many historic cities, beautiful lakes, and dramatic mountainous scenery.

Start your trip in the romantic city of Verona , known for its connection with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, followed by a couple of days in the neighboring Lake Garda , famous for its turquoise waters and quaint lakeside towns.

A leisurely few days in the sunny Veneto region is a perfect place to start your Italian road trip route.

From the south of Lake Garda, drive to the lake’s northern shore where you’ll enter Trentino, one of Italy’s most northerly provinces.

Here you can spend a few days nestled within the dramatic scenery of the  Dolomites , either in the charming city of  Trento  or out hiking, kayaking, and caving your way around the region’s beautiful nature.

Next, head back down to the Veneto region and spend your last couple of days exploring  Venice , Italy’s famous floating city, and  Treviso , home of the tiramisu.

Venice can be difficult to visit on a road trip given that cars can’t enter the island, however, you can either leave your car in Treviso and get the 30-minute train to Venice island or park at one of Venice’s designated car parks and jump on a boat into the historic center.

Finally, head back to Verona, just an hour’s drive away from Venice, to end your trip where you started it.

By Val from My Italian Diaries

Route:  From Ancona to Ascoli Piceno.

Le Marche is a beautiful region in central Italy , stretching along the Adriatic coast.

Its fabulous landscapes in all shades of green and yellow rival those of neighboring Tuscany, while its historic hamlets and glitzy beach towns are a joy to explore.

There’s a lot you can include on your  Le Marche itinerary , but with five days at your disposal, you can cover quite a few highlights.

Start in Ancona , the region’s capital, with a lively harbor, interesting museums (including one specially designed for visually impaired people), and a splendid hilltop cathedral.

The next day, head to Mount Conero National Park , where you’ll find pristine beaches immersed in natural beauty and enchanting little towns like Sirolo and Numana .

On day 3, visit Loreto , home to one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Italy – the Holy House of the Virgin Mary.

Then, reach the beautiful hilltop town of Recanati, where everything speaks of his most famous resident, Giacomo Leopardi, one of Italy’s greatest poets.

Spend the next day in Fermo , another fabulous hilltop town where highlights include Roman cisterns, amazing churches, and a fascinating piazza lined with historic palaces.

While you’re there, don’t miss the gorgeous hamlet of Torre di Palme , known as the “balcony of the Adriatic”, and the magical old town of Grottammare Alta , a bit further south.

Finally, reach Ascoli Piceno to admire its stunning Piazza del Popolo, lined with medieval buildings and historic establishments, and feast on  olive all’ascolana , the region’s delicious stuffed fried olives that were born here.

By Nancy from Nancy Goes to Italy

Route:  Based in Termoli.

Days:  3.

Molise is the second smallest region of Italy. Its western half is part of the Apennine Mountains and a national park. This  Molise road trip  concentrates (over 3 days) on the eastern shelf near the Adriatic.

The base is the seaside town of Termoli, with its old town and beautiful beaches, popular with Romans.

On day 1, visit Agnone, home to the oldest bell foundry in the world, founded in 1339 and continuously operating ever since. 

On day 2, head to Bagnoli del Trigno, a town built in and around a rock. It has an attractive big square, easy parking, pretty trees, painted houses, a piazza with benches and scalloped cobblestones, and a bar named Bizzarro.

Next, visit Pietrabbondante, a town with an ancient amphitheater built by the Samnites around 400 BC. It takes about 40 minutes to get there from Bagnoli del Trigno, even though it’s only 20 miles away. In Molise, the terrain is rough and the roads are small and twisty.

On your last day, head to the village called Acquaviva Collecroce, also named Kruć. It’s small and easily walkable but very hilly. It was founded by people from the Dalmatian coast (what is now Croatia) who are said to speak Italian and Serbo-Croatian.

Northwest Italy: Lombardy, Liguria, and Piedmont

Route:  Circular from Milan.

Days:  7-8.

Looking for more ideas for your Italian self-drive holidays? Another way to see northern Italy with a car is by exploring its northwestern regions, including Lombardy , Liguria, and Piedmont .

After spending a day in Milan , it’s time to hit the road and head to the city of Pavia to marvel at the Visconti Castle, the Cathedral of Pavia, and its beautiful streets.

Continue to Genoa for a couple of days. You can visit the Royal Palace Museum, admire the San Lorenzo Cathedral, stroll along the UNESCO-listed Via Garibaldi and its famous palatial buildings, and enjoy dozens of other landmarks, museums, and activities.

You could also visit the villages of the Cinque Terre, though you might find it easier to reach the area by train (from Genoa).

Spend some time in the charming small city of Asti , and head to Turin for about two days during which you should visit the Egyptian Museum, Palazzo Reale, Palazzo Madama, Villa della Regina, and Borgo Medievale.

Before going back to Milan, make a final stop in the small city of Biella and the nearby Burcina Park and Sanctuary of Oropa , the largest and most important sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary in the Alps.

• Non touristy things to do in Milan
• Day trips from Milan in winter
• Things to do in Milan when it rains
• 4 days in Milan
• Milan or Turin
• Hidden gems in northern Italy
• Best places to visit in northern Italy in October

Northwest Italy: Turin and Aosta Valley

Route:  Circular from Turin.

To combine history and culture with the most picture-perfect natural landscapes, spend a couple of days in Turin and then head to the dreamy Aosta Valley to enjoy the most amazing northwest Italy road trip .

The capital of Piedmont will reward you with UNESCO-listed royal residences of the House of Savoy, fascinating museums for all ages, amazing hearty food and chocolates, and so much more.

Then rent your car in the city center and head to the visit-worthy Aosta Valley (alternatively, rent your car at Turin’s airport, travel through Aosta Valley, and end your trip with 2 days in Turin).

Base yourself in the center of the region and explore a different area each day. On your way from Turin, you can already visit the awe-inspiring Fort of Bard .

In the remaining days, enjoy the magical Mont Blanc views offered by the Skyway Monte Bianco cable car and the quaint towns of Pre Saint Didier and Courmayeur , head into the scenic Gran Paradiso National Park , visit the Roman landmarks of Aosta (the city), and unwind at Brusson Lake.

Don’t forget to try regional delicacies cooked with locally produced fontina cheese, including fondue, risotto, and polenta.

• Where to stay in Aosta Valley
• Places to visit in Aosta Valley
• Is Turin worth visiting?
• 3-day Turin itinerary
• Things to do in Turin
• Best area to stay in Turin
• Chocolate in Turin
• Cafes in Turin
• Turin travel tips
• Winter in Turin
• Hidden gems in Turin

Southern Italy + Sicily

By Talek from Travels with Talek

Route:  Naples to Palermo.

My  road trip in Southern Italy  was one of the coolest I’ve ever taken. We started off in Naples and headed south to Sicily ending in the beautiful capital city of Palermo.

All told the trip took 10 days, but it is the type of journey that you could extend to whatever you want depending on your interests.

In  Naples , the best thing to do is to eat pizza and visit the Archeological Museum.

On to  Matera , a land of mysterious caves where people live and work underground. Further south we crossed into Sicily via car ferry, quite the experience navigating the narrow aisles on a ship with a car!

The island of Sicily is magical. Taormina , one of the first cities you reach when you cross the strait, is a medieval treasure.

Agrigento has the Valley of the Temples and the excavated Roman palace, Villa Romana del Casale, with its perfectly preserved collection of mosaics dating from Roman times.

One of the most impressive sights is the cathedral at Monreal , but the absolute gem of Sicily is its capital,  Palermo .

Wandering the city’s narrow streets and food markets (which are a great way to eat and experience Sicily on a budget ) and visiting the fascinating architectural mishmash of its cathedral and Norman palace was an unforgettable experience.

Best Italy Road Trips: Scenic Island Routes

By Marvin from Part Time Passenger

Route:  Circular starting in Olbia.

Days:  5-10.

Sardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea , is an excellent road trip destination – for various reasons. If you think you’ve seen a fair share of beautiful Italy, this  Sardinia road trip  will elevate your Dolce Vita to the next level.

The local Sards will not only welcome you with open arms, but will fix you up with some of the best Italian food around, including baked goat cheese, homemade ravioli tossed in sage butter, and fresh seafood. 

From the impeccable beaches of the  Costa Smeralda  in the north to the surf spots in  Oristano , across the central mountains, to the sandy bays of the  Costa Rei , Sardinia is an incredibly diverse destination.

With constantly changing scenery, it’ll be hard to be bored. And the best part: the main routes are easy to navigate and dotted with an abundance of stop-over opportunities.

While you could technically drive from north to south in 3-4 hours, you should at least (!) arrange for 5 days on the island.

Olbia , located in the northeastern tip of Sardinia and served by various airlines, is a good starting point. From here, work your way around the coastline. 

Venturing offshore to  La Maddalena  islands, watching the sunset in beautiful  Castelsardo,  or catching that perfect wave in  Capo Mannu ,  are just some of the things that will keep you busy here.

Lovers of all things history and culture will enjoy roaming the colorful alleys of the former Spanish enclave  Alghero  or the many piazzas of  Cagliari , the island’s busy capital. Sardinia simply has it all.

Western Sicily

By Katja from Places and Notes

Route:  Circular starting in Trapani.

Days:  7-10.

On this awesome  Western Sicily road trip , you will visit some of the island’s best historical sites, sandy beaches, cute villages with traditional wine cellars, vibrant cities, salt pans dotted with windmills, lush countryside, and much more.

Start your adventure in  Trapani , spend the first day getting to know the laid-back Sicilian way of life, and take a trip to the medieval village of  Erice  the day after.

Continue towards  San Vito lo Capo , a wonderful white sandy beach bay with a mountain backdrop, perfect for a relaxing day at the seaside.

On the way to Palermo, you can stop by at  Segesta  archaeological site and  Monreale  monastery.

Palermo  is Sicily’s largest, loudest, and most chaotic city, but it sure is worth spending a day or two visiting all the sites and indulging in Sicilian cuisine.

While heading south towards Agrigento and its impressive Valley of the Temples, make sure you visit Corleone , a smaller town famous for its connection with some of the most powerful families of the mafia.

Unwind in  San Leone  at the beach and explore another one of Sicily’s best spots,  Scala dei Turchi  white cliff.

The last part of this trip before returning to Trapani takes you to  Marsala , a charming wine area and a natural reserve with salt evaporation ponds, which are especially lovely at sunset.

This trip can begin in either Trapani or Palermo since there are international airports in both cities and is doable in seven days, but can be extended to ten.

Eastern Sicily

By Annabel from Smudged Postcard

Route:  Circular starting in Catania.

Days:  10 or more.

One of the best drives in Italy, this exploration of Eastern Sicily takes in a wide variety of sights. Flying into  Catania , it is worth spending a day learning about this beautiful Baroque city and its relationship with nearby  Mount Etna .

From Catania, it is an easy drive south to  Syracuse  where highlights include the stunning Piazza del Duomo and the Ancient Greek and Roman remains at the Archaeological Park.

If you’re taking a  road trip in Sicily with kids , be sure to watch a show at the traditional puppet theatre.

From Syracuse, it is a short drive to the Val di Noto region of Sicily, home to some appealing cities including  Modica  and  Ragusa , both perfect for foodies.

Heading inland from the Val di Noto, you reach  Caltagirone  with its impressive terracotta staircase.

Not far from there is the highest regional capital of Sicily, hilltop  Enna  with far-reaching views across the countryside towards Mount Etna.

The final leg of this road trip through Italy’s biggest island passes the smoldering volcano before reaching the pretty clifftop town of  Taormina .

Here, you will find a perfectly positioned Greek-Roman amphitheater with views looking out towards the sea and Mount Etna. There’s a cable car down to the pebbly beach and enough restaurants and cafes to fill a lifetime of holidays.

Some Tips for Planning an Italian Road Trip

• As you can see in the suggested routes in this post, you should focus on a relatively small area instead of trying to see the entire country in 7 to 10 days (or even 2 weeks), which is impossible.
• In some instances, parking is limited and the roads are narrow, so renting a smaller car would be better. It’s not always the case – in Aosta Valley, for example, this wasn’t a problem.
• Parking is never free, so always have spare change, and be prepared for many toll roads (for these, you can also pay by card in most cases but not always).
• Driving inside big Italian cities is not fun, so rent and return the car at the airport if possible.
• Browse the best car rental deals on Rentalcars.com !

Related Travel Guides

Did you like these Italian routes? You might also like:

• Best quotes about Italy
• Books set in Tuscany
• Romantic novels set in Italy
• Gifts for Italy lovers (which you can totally buy for yourself)
• Winter in Italy

Did you like these bucket list Italy road trip ideas? Check out:

• Best road trips in Portugal
• A road trip from Lisbon to Porto
• Northern Portugal road trip
• Beautiful road trips in Spain
• Southern Spain road trip
• Northern Spain road trip
• 4 days in Crete
• 3 days in Malta
• Spring destinations in Europe

Have you found the best Italian road trip ideas for you? Tell me in the comments which one is your favorite and pin this post for later

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

14 thoughts on “Best Italian Road Trips: 16 Super Dreamy Routes”

Thanks for the recommendations. I am planning a road trip to Italy for the summer and your info just made if 10 times easier to plan. Appreciate it!

That’s the goal, so that’s great to know! Thank you, Nadia!

I did a road trip in Puglia, Basilicata and the Amalfi Coast! It was really nice! I passed by many places you mentioned 🙂

That sounds lovely 🙂 Italy is so dreamy!

Great list of road trips you’ve put together! I would love to do all of these so I’m saving this post for later reference.

Thank you so much! A bucket list can never be too big 🙂

I’m loving these road trip ideas! I’m wishing I could teleport myself to Europe now and start the adventure. Ahh well, I will definitely keep these ideas in mind for the future! Those Italian Lakes are calling my name…

Oh, teleporting myself to other places is my dream superpower 😛 You’ll love the Italian lakes – their colorful towns are right up your alley 🙂

What a beautiful country! I’ve travelled through Tuscany and the Veneto but definitely need to explore the Northern Lakes and Sicily. We usually cope with driving in the country (although the smaller roads do have those anxiety inducing ditches on either side) then chicken out and go for a park and ride when we get close to the bog cities.

Your fabulous photos make me want to go back again soon!

I agree some regions in Italy are not so fun to drive, but I’ll take my chances 🙂 Happy you like this post!

Thanks for the feature! I wish I could be in Italy right now 🙁

Me too! Thanks for writing about your amazing Italian road trip 🙂

Thank you for the feature! This is an awesome list of Italy road trips and I can’t wait to explore some of these routes. Especially the Sicily road trips make me crave more Italian adventures!

Thanks for participating! I think it turned out awesome 🙂

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

7 Cities in Southern Italy To Put On Your Radar This Year + Info. You Should Know 

Want to explore beyond Rome, Florence and Venice? Italy’s south has hidden travel gems – charming towns and villages full of regional flavor. This year, head off the usual tourist routes to find Southern Italy’s most delightful spots. From a city carved into stone cliffs to towns tied to savage sea monsters, here are seven special southern cities you must see.

Get ready for winding alleys, ancient cave homes, tales of mythic beasts, and tasty local cuisine. These overlooked destinations reveal the diverse cultures and beauty of sunny Southern Italy. A delicious mix of rich history, relaxed lifestyle, and old world charm awaits in these lesser-known southern landscapes.

Table of Contents

7 southern cities in italy to visit.

I’ve curated a mix of underrated cities ideal for beachgoers, culture enthusiasts, foodies and adventure-seekers alike. Each destination has something special – whether it’s Noto’s golden Baroque buildings, Tropea’s cliff-top views, or Alghero’s alluring blend of Sardinia and Spain.

1. Matera (Basilicata)

Nestled amongst ancient limestone cliffs in the Basilicata region, Matera is a unique Italian city that seems frozen in time . Matera is most famous for the Sassi – ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock cliffs that were inhabited until the 1950s. These Stone Age-esque caverns and ruins create an evocative landscape that earned Matera UNESCO World Heritage status in 1993.

Beyond the Sassi, top attractions include the 13th-century Romanesque-Gothic Matera Cathedral, the Museum of Medieval Art showing frescoes from rupestrian (cave) churches, and views from the Gravina Gorge.

Regional specialties to try include Pane di Matera bread, Peperoni Cruschi (fried peppers), Pignata stew made with sheep meat and potatoes, Crapiata bean soup, and a local sausage called Pezzente della Montagna di Matera.

With its prehistoric vibe and ancient sights, Matera offers a window into Italy’s past. Three days allow enough time to explore the Sassi caves, wander the stone alleys, and get a sense of daily life, past and present.

Fun Fact: The famous Sassi that make Matera so unique and famous were inhabited by large families together with their animals. Today they have been restored and turned into tourist accommodations, perfect for those who like to relive the past.

Unique things to do in Matera:

Visit the underground city , take a tour of the city’s complex water system, and visit noble palaces like Palazzo Bernardini, and the Chiese Rupestri – churches carved into the surrounding rock.

Is Matera for you?

If you want to visit a unique spot in Italy that’s overlooked by many who only visit the North of Italy, you should consider going. You will love Matera if you love history, rock formations, and experiencing different places.

Unique Accommodation in Matera

Matera is full of little gems of hotels. These are the ones that intrigued me the most:

• Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort (higher end with unbelievable views)
• Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita (cave hotel with a very romantic & unique vibe)
• Le Malve Cave Retreat (budget & friendly hotel)

PS: If you are claustrophobic like me, ask for a normal room at Sant’Angelo Luxury Resort.

2. Lecce (Puglia)

Called “The Florence of the South” , Lecce enchants visitors with its ornate 17th-18th century Baroque architecture. The historic city center features extravagant churches, aristocratic palaces, and intricately carved facades made from the local buttery-colored limestone.

Top sights include the elaborate Basilica di Santa Croce, the Roman Amphitheater dating to the 2nd century AD, and Piazza Sant’Oronzo centered around a Roman column. Here you can enjoy typical dishes like orecchiette pasta with ricotta forte cheese, pasticciotto custard tarts (Pasticciotto Leccese), and rustico snacks filled with mozzarella and tomatoes (Rustico Leccese).

With its Southern Italian charm and lively street life, Lecce makes an idyllic base to explore the Salento peninsula. Three leisurely days allow time to wander the atmospheric streets, admire Baroque details, and soak in the relaxed vibe of this coastal retreat.

Fun Fact: While Lecce’s origins are believed to date back to the 5th century BC, there’s a legend attributing its foundation to Malennio (a mythological character, presumably the first King of Salento) around 1200 BC. According to the legend, Malennio established the city shortly after the destruction of Troy. 

Unique things to do in Lecce

Before you start visiting all the famous attractions – including Piazza Duomo, Castello Carlo V, Museo Storico della Città Teatro Romano, Via delle Giravolte, Porta Rudiae, Porta Napoli, Porta San Biagio, Giardini Pubblici Giuseppe Garibaldi, Abbazia di Santa Maria di Cerrate – enjoy a caffè alla Leccese or Leccese style coffee, made with cold coffee and almond milk.

Take a 40-minute car ride or one-hour bus to one of these breathtaking beaches: Gallipoli and Porto Cesareo . Even if you are not visiting in Summer, you can enjoy less crowds and take a walk along the beach, sit down and soak up the sun, and take in the views. Don’t forget to visit the charming Gallipoli town too.

You likely never heard of the Mura Urbiche in Lecce. Although not as famous as Lucca’s Walls, they are still wonderful and worth a visit. If you’d like to take a tour, check that they are open on the days you are visiting as they don’t open daily.

Is Lecce for you?

You’ll likely love Lecce if you love Florence , and if you appreciate beautiful buildings, a slower-paced trip, delicious Mediterranean food, sunny days, beautiful beaches, and the Italian southern culture.

Where to stay in Lecce?

Lecce is full of wonderful palaces turned into hotels . Plus, you can also find big chains like Hilton and Best Western. Here are my top 3 picks:

• Palazzo Maresgallo Suites & Spa (luxury & higher end)
• Patria Palace Lecce (elegant & best value)
• Risorgimento Resort (lowest of the 3 but still in the historic center)

3. Scilla (Calabria)

Perched picturesquely on the Strait of Messina , Scilla charms visitors with its pastel-colored fishing village, historic castle, and mythological ties. As legend tells it, the sea monster Scylla dwelled in Scilla’s waters, sinking ships that dared to pass. Today, Scilla’s turquoise waters and pebbly beaches draw sunseekers rather than sea monsters.

Top attractions include the imposing Castle of Ruffo , built atop a cliff with sublime views, and Marina Grande’s golden sandy beach lined with restaurants and bars.

Don’t miss tasting the local street food – swordfish sandwiches using the day’s catch from Scilla’s iconic wooden fishing boats. Other local delicacies include oven-baked broccoletti, bean soup, and Rossano’s famous licorice.

With its striking seaside setting, charming village vibes, and ancient sites like Bova Marina’s Greek ruins, Scilla makes an atmospheric and delicious place to visit in Calabria.

Fun fact: Scylla monster was described as a beautiful woman from the waist up and a six-headed dog from the waist down. His hideout was said to be located beneath the Ruffo Castle in Scilla. Today, you can admire this fortress that dominates the village and provides a spectacular view of the Strait of Messina and the Aeolian Islands.

Unique things to do in Scilla

Enjoy panoramic scenes from Faro di Capo Peloro , the closest point to Sicily. Dive into history at the Parco Archeologico di Bova Marina, showcasing the remains of an ancient Greek city. For a sweet touch, explore the Museo della Liquirizia di Rossano, uncovering the history and production of Calabria’s famous licorice. 

Is Scilla for you?

If you love smaller and quieter beach destinations and are intrigued by Scilla’s mythological ties you are going to enjoy a weekend in this breathtaking town near the city of Reggio Calabria. Even if you don’t like spending all your time on the beach, you can still explore the sights and Scilla’s historic center.

Scilla Suggested Accommodation

Stay at Il Casato Hotel with gorgeous rooms overlooking the sea and a very welcoming atmosphere.

4. Tropea (Calabria)

Referred to as the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea” , Tropea is famed for its dramatic cliffside setting, sunny beaches, and pastel-hued historic center . Perched high above the sea, the highlights include the postcard-perfect Santa Maria dell’Isola monastery on its own rocky islet and 13th 13th-century Norman cathedral.

Don’t miss soaking up sunset views of Stromboli volcano from Piazza Ercole overlooking the sweep of Capo Vaticano beach.

Tropea is also foodie heaven. Be sure to taste the region’s ruby-red onions, fresh seafood like swordfish and anchovies, and sweet Pignolata honey pastry. With its easygoing charm, natural beauty, and gourmet delicacies, Tropea epitomizes the very best of Calabria’s sun-blessed shores.

Good to know: You might think of Tropea as a beach destination, and it is. However, it also makes the perfect weekend destination for a couple or a group of friends who want to enjoy good food, relaxed seaside vibes, and shopping. You can find local boutiques and famous brands.

Unique Things to do in Tropea

Visit in July to attend the Sagra del Pesce Azzurro and the Tropea Onion Festival . After you visit the Cathedral and Corso Vittorio Emanuele, consider heading to Belvedere di Capo Vaticano. It only takes 20 minutes by car and 40 by train and the views are spectacular. If you have an extra day, take a trip to Isole Eolie and enjoy the scenic views of the Costa degli Dei (Coast of the Gods).

Is Tropea for You?

Tropea can be a little more crowded than Scilla because it’s famous with Italians and Europeans. So if you prefer a quieter vibe come at the end of Spring or go to Scilla instead. Other than that, if you love small fishing villages that offer luxury accomodation, amazing food and shopping, head to Tropea.

Best places to stay in Tropea?

Unlike Scilla there is much more choice here. Here are my top 3 recommendations:

• Villa Paola if your budget is high and you want a memorable luxury holiday.
• La Dolce Vita a Tropea is the middle option – with spectacular views of the sea and close to the center.
• Tenuta Tropeano is a great lower-budget option for those who plan to rent a car – just 8 minutes away from the town.

5. Ragusa (Sicily)

Nestled in Sicily’s Hyblean Mountains, Ragusa Ibla enchants visitors with its peaceful piazzas, winding lanes, and exuberant Baroque architecture. 

Rebuilt after the great earthquake of 1693 , highlights include the grand St. George’s Cathedral and its Chiaramonte-style façade, maze-like Santa Maria delle Scale church, and views overlooking the Irminio River valley.

Don’t leave without trying the Sfoglio pie with ricotta sausage , the Provola, and Caciocavallo Ragusano cheeses, the lamb pies called impanate Ragusane, and ravioli and caviati pasta with pork sauce. 

With its fairytale stone buildings, charming local life, and sweeping valley panoramas , Ragusa Ibla transports you to Sicily’s Baroque golden age.

Fun facts about Ragusa:  1. Did you know that il Comissario Montalbano Italian series was filmed here?  2. The story goes that four giants lifted the city from the waters of the sea to safeguard it from an impending invasion. According to the legend, these giants are believed to still reside beneath the city, having played a crucial role in saving Ragusa from destruction in the past. 

What to see in Ragusa

After seeing the Duomo and the surrounding area, consider visiting one or more of these Unesco sites : Donnafugata Castle Palazzo della Cancelleria, Palazzo Sortino, Palazzo Cosentini, Chiesa S. Filippo Neri, Palazzo Battaglia, and Chiesa dell’Idria.

Is Ragusa for you?

If you want to explore a charming city in Sicily that’s not as big and crowded as the capital Palermo and the other big city Catania, consider Ragusa with its baroque architecture, stunning views, and all tasty Sicilian food.

Best Accommodation in Ragusa

Ragusa offers great accommodation at fantastic prices. You’ll be surprised how low these rooms’ rates are.

• Relais Antica Badia ***** (at €150/night on most nights)
• Villa Boscarino **** (same price range which is wonderful for such a beautiful villa)
• A.D. 1768 Boutique Hotel **** (same price range & beautiful old & new decor)

6. Noto (Sicily)

Dubbed the “Stone Garden” for its ornate limestone structures, Noto’s UNESCO-listed historic center epitomizes Sicilian Baroque. This graceful city was completely rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake, resulting in stately palaces, flamboyant churches, and harmonious honey-hued townhouses.

Noto can be easily reached by car from Catania airport or by train from Syracuse . Must-see monuments include the dramatic staircase of St. Charles Cathedral, the Rosario church with its curved balcony, Nicolaci Palace, and the Porta Reale gateway.

Beyond the city, don’t miss a trip to nearby Marzamemi , an unspoiled fishing village famed for its seafood and sparkling beaches. 

Back in Noto, be sure to try specialties like salsiccia di tonno (tuna sausage) , lolli pasta with eggplant, pastizzette meat pies, and Noto’s famed white onions. Blessed with laidback piazzas, Baroque beauty, and sunny seascapes, Noto is sheer Sicilian magic.

Fun Fact about Noto: A delightful fact about Noto is tied to its nickname, “the city of gold.” When visiting Noto, one can’t help but notice that the churches and palaces have a honey-colored hue, especially during sunset when they are bathed in golden tones.  This enchanting phenomenon is attributed to the limestone used in constructing the buildings. Originally white, the limestone has transformed over time, acquiring a rosy-golden tint, giving Noto its unique and special touch.

Unique things to do in Noto

Don’t miss a golden hour aperitivo in the historic center while you admire the beautiful buildings as the sun goes down, all while sipping an aperitivo.

Is Noto For You?

If you are craving a visit to a rich historic Sicilian city that’s super clean, beautiful, quiet, elegant, and rich in history, Noto is the perfect spot. If you are coming in Summer you can stay here and enjoy relaxed evenings in town after a day at the beach. With its location and proximity to great beaches, you’ll have plenty of choice.

Best Accommodation in Noto

• Seven Rooms Villadorata (higher end but wonderful)
• Battimandorlo (perfect for a relaxing holiday at a good price)
• Gagliardi Boutique Hotel (right in the city center)

7. Alghero (Sardinia)

With its cobbled lanes, medieval towers, and Catalan-style architecture, Alghero offers a delightful taste of Spain on the shores of Sardinia . This former Catalan port city displays its Iberian roots through landmarks like the ornate Santa Maria Cathedral, not to mention seafood paella and crème brûlée on local menus.

But that’s not it – make sure to indulge in Algherian takes on Spanish classics – think lobster cooked “a la Catalana” or seadas honey pastries .

Dive deep into Alghero’s atmospheric old town, a maze made up of intertwining streets enclosed by honey-colored sea walls. Attractions include the impressive Coral Museum . After all, Alghero’s 90 km coast is well known for its precious coral colonies. With that come the pristine beaches like Le Bombarde and Lazzaretto , and the wildlife-rich Porto Conte Regional Park.

As the fifth largest city in Sardinia, Alghero makes an ideal base with its international airport . But it retains the charisma of a storied port town. It’s the perfect place to get a glimpse of how two cultures – Italian & Spanish – can live and thrive together.

Fun Fact About Alghero: In Alghero, the Church of Misericordia houses a remarkable wooden statue of Jesus with movable joints. Legend has it that this statue arrived mysteriously from the sea, contributing to its status as a miraculous icon. So revered is this statue that during Holy Week, it is adorned with a fervor as if it were a living entity. 

Unique things to do in Alghero

If you love boat trips don’t miss a visit to the Alghero Neptune’s Caves. If you prefer, you can also take a hike to the Grotta di Nettuno and Cala Dragunara through an intermediate loop trail that starts from Capo Caccia and takes under 3 hours.

Is Alghero for You?

If you are not sure whether to go to Italy or Spain for your next vacation, then Alghero is perfect for you.

Where to stay in Alghero?

Here are my 2 recommendations:

• Luxury Liberty House (4 stars Boutique Hotel)
• Hotel Catalunya (lower price, right in the center & good amenities)

Things To Know About Southern Italian Cities

Before we end the article with a dreamy 7 day itinerary I thought I would share some useful information about Southern Italy, from weather to mountain towns

What is Southern Italy Known For?

Southern Italy is renowned for its sun-soaked landscapes, spectacular coastlines, historic ruins, and delectable cuisine . It offers an intoxicating blend of a relaxed lifestyle, rich culture, and culinary pleasures. The South is home to pastel-hued fishing villages, cliffside resort towns, open-air markets overflowing with produce, and welcoming locals who embody Italian joie de vivre. 

South Italy Weather

Blessed by the Mediterranean climate, Southern Italy enjoys hot, dry summers perfect for beach-going. Winters are mild with moderate rainfall . Resort destinations like the Amalfi Coast, Calabrian Riviera, and Sicilian beaches are luring sun-seekers much of the year.

Southern Italy Regions  

The main regions comprising Southern Italy are Abruzzo, Molise, Campania, Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria, Sicily and Sardinia. Each region has its own unique character and heritage , from Puglia’s iconic trulli to Calabria’s spicy cuisine, Campania’s archaeological riches, and Sardinia’s glittering coastline. 

Safest Cities in Southern Italy

Many travelers worry about safety in Southern Italy due to stories of petty crime in big cities like Naples or Palermo. However, the South offers many safer cities and towns for visitors , such as Lecce, Ostuni, Siracusa, and Taormina , which have charm without risks. Make sure to be mindfuld wherever you go, and you should be fine.

Other Cities To Visit in Southern Italy

Beyond this article’s highlights, wonderful lesser-known towns await discovery, like cliffside Positano and pastel-hued Ravello on the Amalfi Coast, seaside Ostuni in Puglia known as the “White City”, and Agrigento on Sicily with its Valley of the Temples. 

Mountain Towns in Southern Italy  

While mainly renowned for its coastal allure, Southern Italy also offers spectacular mountain scenery. The rocky Gran Sasso (near Teramo) and forested Pollino National Parks (near Mormanno) offer hiking. Or watch volcanoes like Mount Etna (in Catania) and Stromboli (near Messina) smolder from mountain towns like Taormina and villages atop the Apennine range.

List of Southern Italy Cities

Too many wonderful towns to mention! For a full list of cities and towns within each South Italian region, see my article outlining provinces and metro areas under each region – including hidden gems waiting to be explored.

7 Day Southern Italy Itinerary

If you liked the 7 Southern cities and towns I suggested you visit at the beginning of the article, you are going to love this itinerary I created for you. Have a look, and of course, feel free to adjust as you prefer.

Day 1: Arrive Lecce

Fly into nearby Brindisi or take the quick train down from Rome. Overnight in the “Florence of the South” to wander Lecce’s ornate city center.

Day 2: Lecce to Matera

On day two, pick up a rental car and make the relaxed 2-hour drive east to magical Matera. Its ancient Sassi cave dwellings are an atmospheric place to stay the night.

Day 3: Matera to Pollino National Park to Tropea/Scilla

From Matera, scenic roads pass through Calabria’s national parks. Stop to stretch your legs and take in the mountain scenery. Then continue another 2 hours down to the coast, arriving at either seaside Scilla or cliff-top Tropea. 

After 2.5 hours you’ll arrive at either seaside charmer Scilla or cliff-perched Tropea for some beach time. Pick one as your base for 2-3 nights, but take a day trip to also visit the other town during your stay.

Day 4 & 5: Tropea/Scilla

Spend the day relaxing on sunny beaches and wandering the charming villages. Be sure to taste fresh-caught seafood and local delicacies.

Day 6-7: Scilla/Tropea to Ragusa/Noto

Cross the “toe” and “heel” of Italy’s boot to Sicily’s Baroque towns. Choose either Ragusa Ibla or Noto as your base, but take a half-day trip to also see the neighboring town.

Day 8: Return to Rome

It’s 3.5 hours back to Palermo for evening flights to Rome or Naples. Or extend your adventure and visit vibrant Palermo!

To incorporate a visit to Spanish-influenced Alghero, catch an overnight ferry from Palermo across to Sardinia after Sicily to continue exploring. Wherever you go, this itinerary lets you delve into the rich culture, cuisine, and landscapes that make Southern Italy irresistible.

Southern Italy FAQ

What cities are in the southern part of italy.

Major cities in Southern Italy include Naples, Bari, Reggio Calabria, Palermo, and Cagliari. Smaller cities include Lecce, Taranto, Brindisi, Catanzaro, Messina, and many others.

Is southern Italy worth visiting?

Yes, Southern Italy is absolutely worth visiting for its spectacular coastlines, quaint seaside villages, archaeological ruins, delicious cuisine, and slower pace of life. It offers amazing history, culture, food, and natural beauty.

What is the most beautiful city in the south of Italy?

Some of the most beautiful cities in Southern Italy include Positano and Ravello on the Amalfi Coast, Lecce, Ostuni, Noto, Taormina, and Cefalù. Each has its own unique beauty and charm.

What is the southern coast of Italy called?

Southern Italy’s coastlines have different regional names like the Amalfi Coast, the Cilento Coast, the Calabrian Coast or Costa Viola, and others. The generic term for the southern coast of Italy’s “boot” shape is the Tyrrhenian Coast along the west and Ionian Sea on the east side.

What is the major city in southern Italy?

The largest metropolitan city in southern Italy is Naples (Napoli) with around 1 million inhabitants. Other major southern cities are Palermo, Bari, Reggio Calabria, and Taranto.

What is the white city in southern Italy?

The two most well known “white cities” in Southern Italy are Ostuni in Puglia and Noto in Sicily. Both are renowned for their white-washed historic buildings.

What city in southern Italy sits on a bay?

Naples and the city of Taranto both sit on large bays. The Bay of Naples and Gulf of Taranto are two important natural harbors along the southern coast.

What is the oldest town in southern Italy?

Some of the oldest settlements in Southern Italy include Syracuse (Siracusa) in Sicily, Originally Greek; Matera with its cave dwellings in Basilicata; and the town of Bisceglie in Puglia traces its origins to the 4th century BC.

How to spend 7 days in southern Italy?

A great 7 day Southern Italy itinerary could start in Naples, see Pompeii, continue down the Amalfi Coast, cross to Sicily highlights like Taormina and Syracuse, then end in Palermo or relax on the island of Pantelleria. Add stops like Matera, Lecce, or small villages along the way.

Is Naples nice in Winter?

Yes, Naples can be nice to visit in winter. With fewer tourists, you can see the sights like Pompeii without crowds. Plus mild winter temps allow outdoor dining. Caution rainy days. Enjoy Christmas markets like Via San Gregorio Armeno and warm your soul with hearty Neapolitan cuisine!

How do I get to Capri?

The main ways to reach the island of Capri are by ferry from Naples, Sorrento, Positano and Amalfi as well as hydrofoil from Naples and Sorrento. There are frequent daily connections. The ride from Naples or Sorrento takes under 1 hour.

Is Sorrento close to Naples?

Yes, Sorrento on the Amalfi Coast is an easy day trip from Naples located about 40 miles (64 km) south of downtown. With regular trains and buses taking 60-90 minutes, Naples serves as the main transportation hub for reaching Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.

Is Alberobello worth visiting?

Yes! The UNESCO town of Alberobello with its iconic trulli (stone huts with conical roofs) is absolutely worth a visit. Walking the atmospheric streets and marveling at over 1000 trulli clustered together is an only-in-Puglia experience between Bari and Brindisi.

Is Campania dangerous?

While Naples and smaller cities like Caserta have some petty crime, the Campania region is generally safe especially in tourist areas. Practice basic precautions as in any major city and don’t wander off the main streets at night. The Amalfi Coast, islands like Capri and Ischia, Pompeii, and inland areas feel very secure.

What’s the less crowded town in the Amalfi Coast?

For a less touristy experience on the Amalfi Coast, base yourself in towns like Atrani, Praiano, Maiori or Minori. They offer the same beauty and charm at a more relaxed pace compared to hotspots like Positano or Ravello in peak summer.

How long do I need to visit Pompeii?

To fully explore the vast Pompeii archaeological park, allow 2 to 4 hours minimum depending on your interests. With multiple hours you can see not only the famous preserved Roman city ruins but also climb Vesuvius, explore restored villas like the House of the Faun, and wander less crowded outer areas.

Is Bari better than Lecce?

Bari and Lecce both have merits in Puglia. As a bigger port city and transport hub, Bari makes a great base to explore the region. Lecce wows visitors with its ornate Baroque architecture and charming atmosphere, ideal for wandering photogenic streets. Lecce feels more quaint and tourist friendly. It comes down to personal travel style and priorities.

How long do I need in Palermo?

2 to 4 days is ideal to see the top sights in Palermo, Sicily’s chaotic but charismatic capital. This allows you time to visit Palermo’s Arab-Norman architectural gems like the Palatine Chapel, see colorful markets like Ballaro and Vucciria, and sample street food favorites like arancini rice balls and pane con panelle chickpea fritters.

Describe Positano?

With its steeply stacked pastel buildings overlooking a glittering Mediterranean bay, Positano is the poster child for everything beautiful about the famed Amalfi Coast. This sophisticated village oozes luxury with boutique hotels, ceramic shops and limoncello makers that cascade down to a pebbly beach filled with Funambulist walkers.

Where is Sassi?

The Sassi are a district within the city of Matera, Basilicata known for ancient cave dwellings carved into limestone cliffs that were inhabited up into the 20th century. The Sassi give Matera a prehistoric, troglodyte feel which earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Sassi means “stones” in Italian.

What does the Gulf Of Naples include? 

The Gulf of Naples is the large bay located south of Naples proper on Italy’s western coast. Areas surrounding the Gulf include Naples waterfront neighborhoods, the Sorrentine Peninsula with towns like Sorrento, the islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida, and the ruins of Pompeii to the southeast near Mount Vesuvius.

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Places to Visit in South Italy

15 Best Places to Visit in South Italy

Southern Italy is a vast region that contains the provinces of Abruzzo, Apulia, Basilicata, Campania, Calabria, Molise and Sicily – Sardinia is also sometimes included in this region but this island has less in common with the rest of Southern Italy and has differing culture and traditions. This region of Italy has been inhabited by many different civilisations since antiquity including the Greeks, Romans, Etruscans, Arabs, Normans and Byzantines. This diverse inhabitation is mainly due to the regions accessibility from the Adriatic, Ionian and Mediterranean seas.

In terms of tourism, Southern Italy has some absolutely magnificent offerings including beautiful stretches of dramatic coastline, picture perfect beaches, charming coastal islands and a plethora of historic cities and towns. Possibly the best known region is the gorgeous Amalfi coast and La Cinque Terre; this area on the Mediterranean coast is regarded as one of the most beautiful in Europe. Furthermore, cities such as Naples, Lecce and Palermo have some iconic historical sites including the Castle Nuovo, the Basilica di Santa Croce, and Palermo Cathedral that are waiting to be explored. With so much to offer, a trip to Southern Italy can be a true adventure.

Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in South Italy :

Located on the western coast of Southern Italy, Naples is one of the largest and most productive of Italy’s metropolises and accounts for a large percent of the countries economy.

This city has a huge commercial and public port and watching the various container ships and cruise liners entering the docks is certainly impressive.

Furthermore, Naples has a myriad of historical sites such as the domineering Castle Nuovo and the San Gennaro Catacombs.

Moreover, Naples is in close proximity to the legendary ruins of both Pompeii and Herculaneum, and in the shadow of the epic volcano Mount Vesuvius – these three sites are all must see attractions when visiting this region of Italy.

Lecce is lovingly known as the Florence of the South due to its plethora of opulent historical structures.

Located in the far south, this city is the main hub of the region and is also famed for its beautiful light Lecce Stone that has been used to create most of its structures.

Important sites include the beautiful Basilica di Santa Croce, the Cattedrale dell’Assunzione della Virgine, Lecce Castello and the ancient Roman Amphitheatre.

Furthermore, Lecce has several distinct and gorgeous squares such as the Piazza del Duomo and the Piazza Sant’Oronzo.

If historical buildings are not your thing, you can always relax in the sublime Villa Comunale gardens, or see the excavations of the Faggiano Museum.

Bari is a fantastic coastal town located half way up the Adriatic coast of the South of Italy.

This port city has an extensive harbour, some gorgeous beaches, and a delightful historic old town centre.

The old town centre can be found close to the harbour and has a myriad of narrow streets packed full with interesting structures.

Within the old town, you can find the impressive Castello Svevo, the Cathedral of San Sabino, and the Basilica of San Nicola.

Furthermore you can also find several museums here – most notably the Archaeological Museum and the Bari Civic Museum.

In the modern part of Bari, you can find a host of designer establishments and quality restaurants and bars if you prefer to shop and dine.

4. The Amalfi Coast

This particular region of Southern Italy is one of the most beautiful and world renowned.

Stretching from Naples to Salerno, the Amalfi coast offers dramatic scenery, gorgeous towns that hug the mountains, and some interesting historical sites.

This protected region features some idyllic coastal towns such as Amalfi, Erchie, Minori and Positano – these towns have a series of multi-coloured houses that stack up against the hillsides and provide picture perfect photo opportunities.

Furthermore, sites such as Villa Rufolo in Ravello provide unrivalled views across to the Mediterranean Sea.

This whole region is crying out to be explored and a regular train and bus service make it easy to do so.

Pescara is one of the most northern cities in Southern Italy and lies on the western Adriatic Coast of the country.

The city has a large harbour that is a great place to walk through and admire the various fishing and sailing boats.

Furthermore, spanning part of the harbour is the impressive Ponte del Mare which is a suspension bridge that has a split cycling and walking track running its entire length.

Either side of the harbour, Pescara benefits from two long stretches of golden and pristine beaches – these beaches are packed full of amenities and are the perfect places to soak up the sun and relax.

6. Catanzaro

Catanzaro is one of the most prominent cities on the dog leg of Italy and is situated in the mountains but extends down to the coast.

Once of the most impressive landmarks of Catanzaro is the Biodiversity Park – this park features an extensive botanical gardens, a military museum and a children’s playground.

If you head out of town, you can find the gorgeous Cascata Campanaro that is surrounded by hiking trails and some amazing scenery.

Spanning the Fiumaerlla torrent is the Ponte Bisantis – this huge bridge is one of the most important architectural constructs in Southern Italy and is a fine site.

Aside from parks, bridges and natural scenery, Catanzaro also offers a great beach in the form of Catanzaro Lido for those who want to kick it back a notch.

Palermo  is actually the capital of the Island of Sicily and holds an important place in the history of this southern archipelago – it serves as the economic and cultural centre of Sicily and contains some of the islands most important landmarks.

Palermo Cathedral is simply stunning – its differing architectural styles show the various empires and nations that have conquered Sicily.

The Palermo Archaeological Museum expands on the city and islands history and contains some magnificent artefacts and relics dating back as far as the Roman era.

For more history, you can travel underground and visit the Capuchin Abbey and Catacombs – here you can find over 8000 bodies that have been preserved by the monks that live here.

Palermo also features some fantastic markets and many places to find a bargain with the locals.

8. Brindisi

Brindisi is located to the north west of Lecce and is an important coastal town in the region of Southern Italy.

This city has an ancient history and was supposedly founded by a the hero Diomedes.

The first thing you will notice about Brindisi is its amazing port – the two pronged body of water contains a myriad of shipping vessels and some fantastic scenery.

Secondly, if you travel to the northern part of the city you will reach the Isola Sant’Andrea – this small island sits at the opening of the harbour and contains a brilliant castle and fantastic views out to the sea.

Brindisi also features a range of superb historical structures such as the Monument to Italian Sailors and Brindisi Cathedral.

9. Barletta

Further up the eastern coast of Italy you can find the city of Barletta .

This port is a great place to relax and enjoy the beaches and fine Adriatic climate, but also has a host of interesting sites and attractions.

The main point of interest is the immense Castello Svevo – this castle was constructed during the Norman period and has a fantastic design and impressive battlements.

If you enjoy walking, the Lungomare Pietro Mennea and the Lido provide opportunities to stretch your legs and take in the sea breeze.

This area of Barletta is well maintained and geared for tourists and those wishing to enjoy a day at the beach.

Barletta also has several interesting museums and lies in close proximity to Andria and Trani which are two other wonderful destinations.

Foggia is a city and commune located in close proximity to the Parco Nazionale del Gargano.

This commune has been known as the granary of Italy and is surrounded by fertile farmland – it also serves as an important transport hub in this region of Italy.

Foggia has a fantastic array of attractions and one of the most famous is its cathedral; this Baroque structure has a sublime design and features some stunning architecture.

The Piazza Umberto Giordano sits close to the cathedral and has some great shopping opportunities and is surrounded by beautiful buildings.

Aside from the architecture, Foggia also has some magnificent parks such as the Parco Karol Wojtyla and the Parco San Felice.

For something different and off the beaten track, Foggia is certainly a top pick.

Capri is a small island off the western coast of Southern Italy that lies in close proximity to the Amalfi Coast and Naples.

This island is truly beautiful and is a hugely popular destination for day trips.

When you step off of the boat you will be astounded at the fantastic scenery of this mesmerizing place.

Take the funicular to the Piazzetta and perhaps site and enjoy a drink and people watch.

If you prefer to stay active, take a boat trip around the island or explore the fantastic Blue Grotto cave network.

Continuing the theme of adventure, you can hike to Monte Solaro for possibly the best views of the whole of Capri.

Finally, the nightlife in Capri is vibrant and if you enjoy partying, consider stopping here until the early hours of the morning!

12. Catania

Catania is the second largest city on the island of Sicily and can be found on it’s eastern coast.

Combined with the surrounding communes and towns, this metropolis is actually the 7th largest in Italy.

Within the confines of this busy city, you can find a range of historical sites and interesting attractions.

Ursino Castle and the Cathedral of Catania are both beautiful structures that have stood the test of time and provide insight into the history of the city.

Alternatively, if you want to travel further afield, you can see the immense Mount Etna which is active – trips are possible to see the smouldering crater and look down on the island of Sicily from up high.

This island is much larger than Capri which and both sit at either end of the Gulf of Naples.

Ischia is a volcanic island and contains a range of mountains and rocky terrain.

One of the main sites of this island is the impressive Aragonese Castle that sits proudly on its own small island and is connected by a long footbridge over the sea.

Ischia also contains some beautiful villages, an active port and some divine natural gardens.

Finally, the island is also home to a selection of beautiful beaches and hidden bays that are a great place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

14. Parco Nazionale del Gargano

On the eastern Adriatic coast of Southern Italy there lies an immense national park – Gargano.

This park covers over 110,000 hectares and is renowned for its beautiful scenery and dramatic coastlines.

Throughout this region you can find a multitude of hiking trails, mountains, lakes and stretches of rocky cost and cliffs.

Furthermore there is a wave of delightful coastal towns such as Manfredonia and Vieste that have great beaches and some brilliant sites and hospitality.

15. Messina

Messina is one of the most important cities on the Island of Sicily and has an extensive history as a major port in the Mediterranean.

This city is only a short distance across the Straight of Messina to mainland Italy and has regular boats that travel to Reggio Calabria and Villa San Giovanni.

In the city itself there is a magnificent cathedral and bell tower that sit in a picturesque piazza.

Furthermore, the Messina Regional Museum contains a myriad of interesting artefacts and displays about the history of the area including archaeological excavations and artwork from Caravaggio.

In the immediate area, there is also several coastal towns such as Torre Faro that have beaches and a host of restaurants and beach bars.

15 Best Places to Visit in South Italy:

• The Amalfi Coast
• Parco Nazionale del Gargano