Southern Italy is a region filled with treasures and unforgettable places to explore.
If you’re dreaming of a trip that combines history, nature, sunshine, and a true sense of dolce vita, this is the perfect destination!
Between spectacular landscapes, ancient ruins, and lively, colorful towns, it’s simply impossible to get bored 🙂
Today, I’m taking you to Campania, one of the most beautiful regions in Italy, on an unforgettable road trip through Naples, Mount Vesuvius, famous archaeological sites and the Amalfi Coast.
You’ll find everything you need to plan and organize an itinerary through this amazing area!
Table of Contents
Where Is Campania in Italy — And Why Visit It?
Campania is a region in southern Italy.
It sits just south of Lazio, where Rome is located, and stretches along the Mediterranean coast.
Because of its location, it’s an easy region to include in a wider Italian itinerary (through Lazio, Tuscany or Puglia).
Campania is one of the most visited regions in Italy — and it’s easy to understand why!
Some of the country’s most famous sites are located here, including the archaeological ruins of Pompeii.
The region is also home to several natural and cultural landmarks listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Another big advantage is the climate.
Campania enjoys sunshine for most of the year, which makes it a great destination in almost any season.
You can come for history and culture, or simply for the climate and long summer evenings.
But what really makes Campania special is its identity.
The region feels deeply different from the rest of Italy — more authentic, more intense, and full of character. Over the years, it has become a place that holds a very special spot in both my heart and my travels.
And of course… the food alone is worth the trip 😋
7-Day Itinerary From Naples to the Amalfi Coast
➜ Total distance: Around 310 miles (less than 500 km).
This itinerary focuses on the main highlights around the Naples region, while keeping the trip easy and enjoyable.
Distances between stops are very short.
This makes it ideal if you want a road trip with a relaxed pace.
Another advantage is flexibility.
You can easily spend more time in certain places, skip a stop, or adjust the rhythm without changing the overall structure of the trip.
The road trip both starts and ends in Naples.
Over these seven days (or more!), you’ll have the opportunity to discover:
- The city of Naples, energetic and always surprising.
- The beautiful islands of the Bay of Naples, such as Capri and/or Ischia.
- Some of Campania’s most famous archaeological sites, including Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Paestum.
- The hike to the summit of Mount Vesuvius.
- The spectacular roads of the Amalfi Coast and some of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
Now let’s take a closer look at how to organize each day of this one-week road trip:
Itinerary Overview
Day 1 — Explore Naples
Day 2 — Discover the islands of the Bay of Naples (you can easily extend your stay to one full day per island).
Day 3 — Hike Mount Vesuvius and visit Herculaneum
Day 4 — Visit Pompeii and drive to the Amalfi Coast
Day 5 — Explore Positano
Day 6 — Visit Amalfi and Maiori
Day 7 — Return to Naples
Optional: visit the archaeological site of Paestum or take a Neapolitan pizza-making class.
Where to Rent a Car for a Road Trip in Italy?
Personally, no matter where I’m going, I always start by comparing prices and reviews on DiscoverCars.
You simply enter your travel dates, pick-up and drop-off locations, and compare the available options in one place.
Almost all rental companies are listed there — including smaller local agencies that you might not easily find otherwise.
You can then sort the results by price, transmission type, customer rating, or rental company.🂍
It saves a huge amount of time and avoids having to run the same search on multiple rental websites.
Over the years, this comparison tool has helped me discover several excellent local rental companies, especially in places like Scotland or Sardinia.
Depending on the destination, international companies can also be a very good option.
For example, I regularly rent with Sixt.
The cars are usually recent, clean, and well maintained, and pick-up and drop-off hours tend to be flexible, which makes things much easier when traveling.
⟶ Compare prices on DiscoverCars ⟵
Day 1 — Exploring Naples
Naples is a fascinating city.
Rich in history, culture, and of course, food.
At first, the city can feel a little rough around the edges.
Don’t let that intimidate you. Take your time, let the city reveal itself, and you’ll quickly understand why so many travelers fall in love with it.
Because we all travel differently, here are the main things to see and do in Naples.
You can then build your day around what interests you most and explore the city at your own pace.
• The Historic Center of Naples
This is where the heart of the city truly beats.
Every street feels like a postcard.
Narrow alleys, laundry hanging above your head, Vespas weaving through pedestrians and cars, and the constant smell of pizza in the air — this is Naples at its most authentic.
Don’t miss Spaccanapoli, the long street that cuts through the historic center for nearly two kilometers.
It’s actually a succession of streets — Via Benedetto Croce, Via San Biagio dei Librai, Via Vicaria Vecchia, and Via Forcella — forming the backbone of the old city.
This area is perfect for wandering without a plan.
You’ll find small shops, countless churches, lively cafés, and traditional restaurants around every corner.
Make sure to visit the famous Sansevero Chapel, known worldwide for the astonishing sculpture of the Veiled Christ, carved with incredible finesse. ☞ Tickets and information available here
And of course, this is the perfect place to try a real Neapolitan pizza 🍕
The historic center is full of pizzerias serving classic Margherita pizzas, said to have been created here in 1889.
Some of the most famous (and best) addresses include:
- Gino e Toto Sorbillo — Via dei Tribunali, 32
- L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele — Via Cesare Sersale, 1
- Pizzeria Starita — Via Materdei, 27/28
Just beyond the historic center, you can also explore the Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarters).
A maze of narrow streets filled with street art, local life, and great places to discover Neapolitan cuisine.
If you’d rather discover the city with more context, small-group guided tours are also available.
A great way to see the main highlights while learning about Naples’ history and daily life.
• The Underground Naples
Beneath the busy streets lies a completely different world.
The underground of Naples is a vast network shaped by centuries of history.
Tunnels, galleries, catacombs, ancient cisterns and hidden passageways form a fascinating underground city.
It’s a mysterious and memorable experience — and a very different way to discover Naples.
The main underground site in Naples is Napoli Sotterranea.
It can only be visited with guided tours.
About 40 meters below ground, you’ll walk through tunnels originally dug by the Greeks more than 2,400 years ago, later used by the Romans as aqueducts supplying water to the city.
☞ Tickets and information available here
• The National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum of Naples is one of the most important archaeological museums in the world.
It houses exceptional collections, including many of the treasures discovered in Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Even if you’re not especially interested in ancient history, the museum remains immersive, surprising, and incredibly rich.
Don’t miss:
▶︎ Artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum
Frescoes, mosaics, everyday objects, jewelry, and even a famous secret cabinet displaying erotic artworks from Roman times.
▶︎ The sculpture collections
An impressive collection of ancient statues from nearby archaeological sites and across Italy.
▶︎ The Egyptian collection
Often overlooked, the museum also holds one of the largest Egyptian collections in Italy, with mummies, statues, and ritual objects.
⚠️ Good to know: the museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Plan at least three hours to visit without rushing.
⟶ Tickets and information available here
• Enjoy the Views Over the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius
Naples offers some truly spectacular views.
Sea, volcano, and islands all come together in one panorama.
If you want to see the bay at its best, here are a few of the most beautiful viewpoints:
▶︎ Vomero Hill and Castel Sant’Elmo
Located about 250 meters (820 feet) above sea level, this medieval fortress offers a stunning 360° view over Naples and the bay.
Probably the best viewpoint in the city.
▶︎ Parco Virgiliano
Perched in the Posillipo district, this park offers exceptional views over the Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida thanks to several panoramic terraces.
▶︎ Lungomare Caracciolo
A long seaside promenade, perfect for a walk at sunset, with Mount Vesuvius and the bay as a constant backdrop.
• Where to Stay in Naples
If you want to stay in the heart of the city and fully experience Naples’ atmosphere, the historic center and the area around Spaccanapoli are excellent choices.
Everything is within walking distance here — the main sights, lively streets, and of course some of the best places in the city to eat pizza. It’s the perfect base for exploring Naples without needing to rely too much on transportation.
Here are a few of my favorite places to stay in the area:
▶︎ Albergo Palazzo Decumani
A beautifully restored historic hotel in the heart of Naples, offering elegant rooms, classic charm, and a superb location just steps from the city’s best sights and restaurants. ☞ Check availability
▶︎ UNA Hotels Napoli
An unforgettable place to stay in Naples. Pretty rooms, a historic building, a panoramic terrace, and some rooms with stunning views — all in a perfect central location. ☞ Check availability
▶︎ Palazzo Caracciolo Naples
A grand historic hotel in Naples with elegant interiors, a charming courtyard, and an unbeatable central location — perfect for exploring the city’s best sights, food, and culture. ☞ Check availability
⟶ View all available hotels in Naples ⟵
Day 2 — Discover the Islands of the Bay of Naples
It’s impossible to visit the Naples region without escaping to the islands. Spending a day on one of them feels like a journey within the journey.
If you have enough time, you can easily extend your trip and visit both islands.
Spending one day in Capri and another in Ischia (or even more) is a fantastic way to experience the best of the Bay of Naples.
• Visiting Capri
Capri is the most iconic island in the Bay of Naples.
Located about 45 minutes by ferry from Naples, it’s a must-see for its glamorous atmosphere, dramatic landscapes, and preserved nature.
To visit Capri from Naples in one day, you have two main options:
▶︎ Independent visit with ferry transfers (Snav or Caremar)
This is the simplest option.
Just hop on the ferry and let yourself discover Capri.
Once on the island, you can explore on foot or use local transportation such as minibuses, the funicular, or the chairlift.
In one day, you can:
- Wander through the town of Capri, the lively heart of the island.
- Walk to the Gardens of Augustus, which offer beautiful views over the island, the bay, and the famous Via Krupp, a winding road carved directly into the cliff.
- Explore the island’s spectacular sea caves.
The marine caves are accessible through boat tours or guided kayak excursions.
Be aware that these tours are extremely popular. Advance booking is essential.
▶︎ Full-Day Tours with Transfers Included
If you prefer more structure, some packages combine guided moments with free time on the island.
It’s a pleasant and informative way to see the highlights without feeling rushed.
⟶ Check availability for Naples / Capri excursions ⟵
• Where to Stay in Capri
Accommodation options in Capri are limited, and hotels fill up very quickly.
If you want to stay on the island, it’s best to book as early as possible. Especially during high season.
Here are a few of my favorite places to stay:
▶︎ Hotel Canasta
Set on the heights of Capri, a charming hotel with a pool and beautiful sea views. ☞ Check availability
▶︎ Hotel Della Piccola Marina
Right in the heart of Capri, a comfortable hotel with a relaxed, vacation feel. ☞ Check availability
▶︎ Hotel Orsa Maggiore
Slightly away from the crowds, a peaceful little retreat, perfect for enjoying a quieter side of Capri. ☞ Check availability
⟶ View all available hotels in Capri ⟵
• Visiting Ischia
Ischia is the largest island in the Bay of Naples, located about 30 km (19 miles) from the mainland.
Less touristy than Capri, it’s known for its natural thermal springs, beautiful beaches, and lush volcanic landscapes.
If you’re looking for a more peaceful, nature-focused escape, Ischia is the perfect choice.
You can visit the impressive Aragonese Castle, a medieval fortress perched on a rocky islet and connected to the island by a stone bridge.
From the top, the views over the sea and the island are absolutely stunning.
Ischia is also known for its beaches:
- Spiaggia dei Maronti, the largest beach on the island
- Baia di San Montano, a small bay with shallow, calm waters
- La Scannella, a more secluded cove, accessible only by boat or on foot
Another must-do experience is relaxing in one of Ischia’s famous thermal parks.
The Poseidon Thermal Gardens are among the most popular.
They offer multiple pools, natural hot springs, and direct access to the sea.
Keep in mind that the complex is open seasonally, usually from mid-April to late October.
• Where to Stay in Ischia
Ischia offers a wide range of accommodation options and prices are generally more affordable than in Capri.
Many hotels feature pools, spas, and beautiful sea views… the kind of place that makes you want to stay longer than planned.
Here are a few great places to consider:
▶︎ Hermitage Resort & Thermal Spa
Just steps from Ischia’s historic center, a charming hotel with its own thermal spa. ☞ Check availability
▶︎ Hotel Nettuno
A must-stay in Ischia, romantic and picture-perfect, with a jacuzzi terrace overlooking the sea. ☞ Check availability
▶︎ Pagoda Lifestyle Hotel
Right by the sea, a hotel that fully embraces Mediterranean charm. ☞ Check availability
⟶ View all available hotels in Ischia ⟵
Day 3 — Exploring Mount Vesuvius and Visiting Herculaneum
Now it’s time to head toward Campania’s most iconic landmark… Mount Vesuvius.
Standing at 4,200 feet (1,281 meters), the volcano is never far from sight.
Wherever you are around Naples, you’ll eventually catch a glimpse of it.
Closely monitored due to the large population living at its base, Vesuvius still attracts thousands of visitors every year.
People come to explore its crater and enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit.
Let’s take a look at the different ways to experience it.
⚠️ Good to know:
The hike to the top of Mount Vesuvius is accessible to most people, including beginners and families with children. The trail isn’t very long and doesn’t require any technical skills.
That said, it’s still a steady uphill walk on uneven, volcanic ground, so you’ll need to feel comfortable walking for a bit. Unfortunately, the site is not wheelchair accessible.
Also, keep in mind that a ticket is required to reach the summit. Visitor numbers are limited each day, so it’s best to book in advance rather than waiting until the last minute.
⟶ Tickets and information available here ⟵
• How to Visit Mount Vesuvius
▶︎ If you’re renting a car
You can drive all the way up to the main parking areas near the entrance of the site.
Just make sure to book your tickets online in advance — this will allow you to enter directly without waiting in line.
▶︎ If you don’t have a car
You have two main options:
- Shuttle tours from Naples
These usually include transportation and your entrance ticket.
It’s the easiest option — you don’t have to plan anything, just sit back and enjoy the experience.
☞ Check availability - Public transportation
Take the Circumvesuviana train from Naples Central Station (Napoli–Sorrento line) and get off at Ercolano Scavi.
From there, take the Vesuvio Express bus up to the entrance of the park.
As always, don’t forget to book your tickets to access the trail leading to the crater.
For the best experience, I recommend visiting early in the morning.
Temperatures are much more comfortable, especially in spring and summer.
And most importantly, you’ll avoid the crowds that build up later in the day.
Visiting Vesuvius in the morning also leaves you time in the afternoon to explore the nearby archaeological site of Herculaneum, located just below the volcano.
• How to Visit Herculaneum
Had you ever heard of Herculaneum before planning this road trip between Naples and the Amalfi Coast?
Probably not.
And yet, Herculaneum is one of the best-preserved ancient sites in Italy.
Some even say it’s better preserved than Pompeii.
The site is also much smaller, which makes it easier to visit. You can comfortably explore it in half a day.
Take your time, look closely, and let yourself step back into ancient Roman life.
To visit Herculaneum, you have a couple of options:
▶︎ Visit on your own
Book your ticket and explore the site at your own pace.
If you want to make the most of your visit, I recommend reading my dedicated guide in advance.
☞ Everything you need to know to visit Herculaneum (and not miss a thing)
▶︎ Guided tours with an archaeologist
These tours are very popular, especially if you want to better understand daily life in ancient times.
They include entrance to the site and are led by professional guides.
It’s a great way to bring the ruins to life and get a deeper understanding of what you’re seeing.
☞ Check availability for guided tours
• Where to Stay in Ercolano and Pompeii
As you might expect, there are plenty of hotels near both archaeological sites.
Personally, I recommend staying in Pompeii.
The town has a bit more charm than Ercolano and feels more pleasant overall.
Here are a few great options to rest and recharge in good conditions:
▶︎ Hotel Palma
In the heart of Pompeii, a charming hotel with a rooftop terrace and panoramic views of Mount Vesuvius. → Check availability ←
▶︎ Hotel Forum
A long-time classic in Pompeii. Comfortable, modern, and above all: located right across from the ruins. → Check availability ←
▶︎ Hotel Vittoria
Also located right across from the ruins, a modern hotel with especially welcoming staff. → Check availability ←
⟶ View all available hotels in Pompeii ⟵
▶︎ Puntaquattroventi
A great option if you have a car, as it’s slightly outside the center of Ercolano. A beautiful seaside hotel with large outdoor pools. ☞ Check availability
Day 4 — Visiting Pompeii and Driving to the Amalfi Coast
This fourth day of the road trip is a big one — and definitely unforgettable.
You’ll be visiting one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world: Pompeii.
Buried under a thick layer of volcanic ash after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, the city was frozen in time.
Today, it offers a unique glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.
That said, visiting Pompeii requires a bit of planning.
The site gets extremely busy during peak season, so it’s important to think ahead and decide how you want to explore it before you arrive.
▶︎ Visit on your own
Just like Herculaneum, make sure to book your ticket in advance, then explore the site at your own pace.
When visiting on your own, I always recommend spending as much time as possible here.
Pompeii is a full-scale city — you can easily spend an entire day wandering through its streets.
If you want to make the most of your visit, you can also check out my dedicated guide:
☞ Everything you need to know to visit Pompeii (and not miss a thing)
▶︎ Guided tours with an archaeologist
A great option if you want to focus on the highlights while getting deeper insight into the site.
Having a professional guide really helps bring Pompeii to life.
☞ Check availability for guided tours
⚠️ Good to know:
If you’re not planning to rent a car, there are excellent day trips from Naples that combine Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius in one single tour. It’s also a great option if you’re short on time and want to make the most of both sites in just one day.
After this unforgettable visit, if you still have some energy left, you can start driving toward the Amalfi Coast.
Or take it easy and wait until the next morning to head to Positano.
Day 5 — Visiting Positano
The last part of this road trip has a more relaxed, contemplative feel.
No major “must-see” sites here — even though the coast can get quite busy in peak season.
This is more about slowing down.
Think scenic walks, drives along the coastline, and maybe even a boat ride.
All set in a picture-perfect landscape.
• What to Do in Positano
Positano is one of the most iconic and picturesque villages in Italy, located about 1.5 hours from Naples.
Built into the cliffs, it offers a truly postcard-perfect setting — colorful houses, narrow stairways, and beautiful beaches all facing the sea.
Here’s an example of how you can spend a day in Positano:
▶︎ Enjoy the views and wander through the streets
Start along Via Cristoforo Colombo, where you’ll get some of the best views over the village.
Then take your time exploring the stair-filled streets.
Don’t miss Via dei Mulini, the main shopping street of Positano.
▶︎ Head down to Spiaggia Grande
Walk all the way down to the main beach and take a swim at the foot of one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
▶︎ Visit Santa Maria Assunta Church
This iconic church, with its colorful dome, is one of Positano’s main landmarks.
▶︎ Have lunch with a view
Sit down at a terrace restaurant and enjoy both the food and the scenery.
It’s part of the experience.
▶︎ See the coast from the water
One of the best ways to experience the Amalfi Coast.
Boat tours allow you to discover hidden beaches, go snorkeling, or simply enjoy a peaceful moment away from the crowds.
Some even offer beautiful sunset experiences on the water.
▶︎ Go up to Nocelle
You can walk or take a bus to reach this small village above Positano.
From here, the view over the coastline is absolutely breathtaking.
• Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast
Keep in mind that the Amalfi Coast gets very busy as early as May.
Booking well in advance is essential if you want to have a good choice of accommodations.
▶︎ Albergo Miramare Positano
Wake up in a true postcard setting! A terrace with panoramic sea views and endless shades of blue all around. ☞ Check availability
▶︎ Tramonto d’Oro
A historic hotel run by the same family since the 1950s, and likely one of the best places to stay on the Amalfi Coast. Sea views, a pool overlooking the water, charming rooms, and an especially warm welcome. ☞ Voir Check availability
▶︎ Palazzo Ferraioli – Hotel & Wellness
Stylish rooms with unique décor, sea views, and for some, spa bathtubs — perfect for a relaxing stay on the Amalfi Coast. ☞ Check Availability
⟶ View all available hotels in the Amalfi Coast ⟵
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You’ve probably noticed it already — hotel prices on the Amalfi Coast are far from cheap.
For more affordable options, consider staying in Minori or Maiori.
These villages are usually easier on the budget than Positano or Amalfi.
Another great option is to stay in Sorrento, located just west of the coast.
It makes an excellent base for day trips. From there, you can reach Positano in about 30 minutes and Amalfi in about 1 hour.
Just keep in mind that traffic can be heavy during the summer months!
• Visiting the Amalfi Coast Without a Car
There are plenty of ways to explore the Amalfi Coast from Naples without renting a car.
Several excursions make it easy to discover the coastline, whether by road or from the sea.
☞ See more information about Amalfi Coast bus tours from Naples
☞ See more information about Amalfi Coast boat tours from Naples
Day 6 — Visiting Amalfi and Maiori
This is your second-to-last day of the road trip.
A day to slow down.
To enjoy the views, the atmosphere, and the food.
You’ll spend the morning in Amalfi, the historic heart of the coast. Once a powerful maritime republic, the town still has a lot of character today.
Here’s what not to miss in Amalfi:
▶︎ The Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Sant’Andrea)
With its richly decorated interior, cloister, museum, and crypt.
▶︎ Wander through the medieval streets
Take your time exploring the narrow alleys and tiny local shops.
▶︎ The Paper Museum
Much more interesting and immersive than the name might suggest.
▶︎ Try a sfogliatella 😋
A traditional pastry filled with ricotta and lemon — a must while you’re here.
▶︎ Walk to Atrani
If you have a bit of time, head to Atrani, a charming village just a 10-minute walk from Amalfi.
Located just 5 km from Amalfi, Maiori has a more relaxed feel. Less crowded. More local.
There are two ways to get to Maiori from Amalfi.
By car, which takes about 15 minutes without traffic. Or by ferry.
From April to October, the ferry is a great option. The views from the sea are beautiful.
And it’s also a good way to avoid traffic. The ride is short, around 15 minutes.
It’s known for its long sandy beach — the largest on the Amalfi Coast.
A perfect place to slow down and enjoy a quieter side of the region.
Once in Maiori, don’t miss:
▶︎ The beach. The perfect place to relax and end your road trip on a high note.
▶︎ The seaside promenade. Especially enjoyable if you’re visiting outside the high season.
▶︎ Castello di San Nicola de Thoro-Plano. A medieval fortress above the town. About a 20-minute walk uphill — but the view is absolutely stunning.
Day 7 — Back to Naples and Last Experiences
It’s time to head back to Naples.
For this final day, you have a few options.
It really depends on your interests and how much energy you have left.
▶︎ Visit the ancient Greek temples of Paestum
You can take a detour to Paestum, home to some of the most impressive Greek temples in Italy.
They have stood here for more than 2,700 years, right in the middle of the countryside.
A powerful reminder of the Greek presence in the region between the 8th and 2nd centuries BC.
The site is beautiful and peaceful. Much less crowded than Pompeii or Herculaneum.
There’s also a small museum on site, which is well worth a visit.
⚠️ Good to know: I highly recommend taking a guided tour — the guides are truly passionate and bring the site to life.
▶︎ Take a pizza-making class in Naples
Once you’ve returned the car, if you still have a few hours before your flight, this is the perfect way to end your trip.
Join a pizza-making class and learn how to make a real Neapolitan pizza.
A fun and friendly experience — and a great way to enjoy one last moment in Naples.
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And that’s it!
I hope this road trip through Campania leaves you with as many unforgettable memories as it did for me. If you have any questions about your trip, the itinerary, or the different visits, feel free to ask in the comments 🙂
One Last Word: This article is an English adaptation of an original French post published on lauraenvoyage.fr
It is the result of many hours of work. If you found it useful, you can support my work by using the booking links included in this article. Some of them are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. This helps me continue creating 100% independent and free content. Thank you so much for your support ♥︎