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Itinerary Suggestions Make the Most of Your Visit

Itinerary Suggestions Make the Most of Your Visit

Campania, Italy

-hour Layover Highlights Day Trip to Pompeii

For a very limited time, perhaps arriving early morning and departing late evening from Naples, focus intensely on Pompeii.

Morning (9:00 AM - 2:00 PM): Pompeii Immersion. Arrive at "Pompei Scavi - Villa dei Misteri" Circumvesuviana station at opening. Spend 5 hours exploring the highlights: Forum, Basilica, Stabian Baths, Amphitheatre, major houses (e.g., House of the Faun, House of the Vettii if open), and Via dell'Abbondanza. Lunch (2:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Local Flavors. Eat at a local restaurant or pizzeria in modern Pompei, just outside the archaeological park entrance.

Late Afternoon & Departure

  • Take a quick visit to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rosary of Pompei.
  • Start your Pompeii visit as early as possible to avoid crowds and midday heat.
  • Late Afternoon/Evening: Depart back to Naples or your departure point.

Weekend & Longer Getaways

These itineraries dive into Pompeii and the surrounding region.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

This itinerary allows for a deep dive into Pompeii and a taste of the surrounding region.

Day 1: Pompeii Immersion

  • Arrive in modern Pompei and check into your accommodation.
  • Dedicate a full day (6-8 hours) to exploring Pompeii Archaeological Park deeply.
  • Enjoy dinner in Pompei town, savoring local Campanian cuisine.
  • Pre-book Pompeii tickets online to save time.
Consider hiring a licensed guide for your Pompeii exploration.

Day 2: Vesuvius & Herculaneum

Combine natural wonders with ancient ruins.

Morning: Mount Vesuvius

  • Take a bus from Pompeii Scavi station to Mount Vesuvius.
  • Hike to the crater for panoramic views and perspective.
  • Experience the iconic volcano responsible for Pompeii's destruction.

Day 3: Naples Cultural Dive or Sorrento Charm

Choose your preferred regional experience for your final day.

Afternoon: Herculaneum

  • Take the Circumvesuviana train from Pompeii Scavi to Ercolano Scavi.
  • Spend 2-3 hours exploring Herculaneum Archaeological Park.
  • Marvel at its superior preservation and intimate atmosphere.
  • Return to Pompei or move to Naples/Sorrento for your second night.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience Campania Focus

This itinerary presents a thorough exploration of Pompeii and its most famous regional highlights.

Days 1-2: Pompeii & Vesuvius Region

  • Base in modern Pompei or Sorrento. Dedicate one full day to Pompeii, and another to Herculaneum and the Vesuvius hike.
  • Days 3-4: Naples Urban Exploration. Move to Naples. Visit MANN, historic center, and enjoy Neapolitan cuisine.
  • Days 5-7: Amalfi Coast and Islands. Base in Sorrento or an Amalfi Coast town. Day trip to Amalfi Coast, Capri Island.
  • Depart from Naples.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration Southern Italy Focus

Extend the one-week Campania itinerary by adding other Southern Italian gems.

Week 1: Campania

Follow the One-Week Comprehensive Experience above for Pompeii, Naples, Vesuvius, Herculaneum, and the Amalfi Coast/Capri.

Week 2: Puglia or Sicily

Travel by train from Naples to Bari or Lecce (Puglia) or fly to Palermo or Catania (Sicily).

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

For stays of a month or more, consider renting an apartment in a smaller town like Pompei or a larger city like Naples. This allows for slower, immersive exploration.

Seamless Booking

For bookable experience components for all these itineraries, visit GetYourGuide.

Tailored Adventures: Interest-Based Routes

Craft your journey around your passions, from ancient history to culinary delights.

Historical & Heritage Focus

Dive deep into the ancient past of Campania.

Core Sites

  • Pompeii (full day), Herculaneum (half day), National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN) (half day).
  • Add-ons: Oplontis (Villa Poppaea), Boscoreale Antiquarium, Paestum (ancient Greek temples).
  • Royal Palace of Caserta (full day trip).
  • Utilize Circumvesuviana and Trenitalia regional trains for logistics.
Explore centuries of history in one region.

Food and Culinary Experiences

Savor the flavors of Southern Italy.

Culinary Journey

  • Base in Naples, ideal for food lovers. Enjoy Naples street food tour, pizza making class.
  • Add-ons: Day trip to a buffalo mozzarella farm near Paestum.
  • Limoncello producer visit in Sorrento, wine tasting on Vesuvius slopes.
  • Explore local markets, dine at traditional trattorias and fine dining.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities

For active travelers seeking thrill and natural beauty.

Active Exploration

  • Pompeii exploration (extensive walking).
  • Hike Mount Vesuvius to the crater.
  • Coastal hikes on the Path of the Gods (Amalfi Coast).
  • Kayaking or boat tours along the Amalfi Coast or around Capri.
Discover hidden paths and breathtaking views.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Balance historical exploration with engaging activities and downtime for all ages.

Kid-Friendly Exploration

  • Pompeii: focus on imagination-capturing highlights (Amphitheatre, Gymnasium, frescoes).
  • Vesuvius: hike up Mount Vesuvius for older children.
  • Beach Time: day trip to a family-friendly beach near Naples or Ischia.
  • Embrace pizza and gelato.

Art and Architecture Emphasis

Uncover the artistic and structural marvels of the region.

Architectural Wonders

  • Pompeii (focus on houses with frescoes and mosaics, public buildings), Herculaneum (preserved wooden structures).
  • National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN) for original art.
  • Oplontis (Villa Poppaea) for grand frescoes.
  • Royal Palace of Caserta (18th-century Baroque architecture) and churches in Naples.

Spiritual and Wellness Journey

Seek tranquility and historical spiritual insights.

Inner Peace & History

  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rosary of Pompei (modern pilgrimage site).
  • Visiting ancient Roman temples in Paestum for a sense of ancient spiritual practices.
  • Relaxation at thermal spas on Ischia Island.
  • Time for reflection within the serene parts of the Pompeii ruins, especially in the early morning.

Itinerary Customization

Mix and Match

Combine elements from different interest-based routes to create an unique adventure that fits your desires.

Pace Yourself

Adjust the pace of your itinerary to match your energy levels and how deeply you wish to explore each site.

Personal Preference

These suggestions serve as a guide. Your personal preferences are the best compass for planning.

Tailor Your Trip

These suggestions serve as a starting point. Mix and match elements to design a trip that matches your personal interests and travel style.

Smart Travel: Budget & Seasons

Travel options for every budget and suggestions for each season.

Budget-Based Plans

Backpacker's Guide

Stay in hostels/budget B&Bs in Naples/Pompei. Rely on Circumvesuviana and walking. Eat street food, groceries, inexpensive pizzerias. Utilize free Pompeii entry days (verify policy). Slow travel.

Mid-range Traveler's

Mid-range hotels/B&Bs. Mix public transport and occasional taxis. Enjoy casual restaurants, supplementing with street food. Entry to Pompeii, Herculaneum, MANN. Consider a small group guided tour.

Luxury Experience

Boutique hotels in Sorrento/Naples. Private transfers for all travel. Fine dining experiences with reservations. Private licensed guides. Exclusive boat tours to Capri. Bespoke culinary experiences.

Value-focused: Stay in a comfortable B&B near Pompeii, use Circumvesuviana, eat local, pre-book tickets.

Seasonal Specialties: Visiting at the Right Time

Tailor your itinerary to the advantages of each season.

Summer June-August

  • Pompeii: visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat.
  • Focus: Coastal activities, boat trips, swimming. Long daylight hours.
  • Prioritize shaded areas within Pompeii.

Winter November-March

Experience Pompeii with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Winter Exploration

  • Pompeii: fewer crowds, ideal for leisurely exploration without heat.
  • Focus: Indoor attractions in Naples (museums, churches).
  • Wear warm, waterproof layers. Enjoy hearty winter dishes.

Shoulder Seasons April-May, Sep-Oct

Pleasant temperatures are ideal for extensive walking. Good light for photography. Moderate crowds.

Ideal Visiting Times

  • Pompeii: pleasant temperatures for extensive walking. Good light for photography.
  • Excellent for combining archaeological visits with outdoor activities like Vesuvius hike or coastal walks.
  • Spring brings blooming flowers; autumn brings grape harvests.
  • Moderate crowds.

Off-Season Exploration Strategies

Embrace the quieter atmosphere and enjoy lower prices on accommodation and flights.

Advantages of Off-Season

  • Embrace the quieter atmosphere.
  • Enjoy lower prices on accommodation and flights.
  • Be prepared for reduced hours at some tourist services or attractions.
  • Focus on cultural immersion and connecting with locals.

Festival or Event-Centered Visits

Local Calendar Check

Check local calendars for specific food festivals (e.g., Sagra della Castagna in autumn for chestnuts), religious processions (e.g., Easter week in Naples), or cultural events that coincide with your visit.

Unique Insights

These events offer unique insights into local traditions and add a special dimension to your travel experience.

Plan Ahead

Booking accommodation and transport in advance for festival dates is recommended due to popularity.

Plan for Your Perfect Season

Each season brings its unique charm to Pompeii and the Campania region. Choose the time that aligns best with your preferences and activities.