Campania

Of Italy's southern regions, Campania is the most visited. It has much to offer. In addition to the culture and food, the region has outstanding architecture, archaeological and ancient sites to visit. There are spectacular coastal and interior areas to visit. Cities and towns hold an intense history and range from small quaint towns to exciting cities as such as Naples. From simple houses to the grand palace of Caserta - the largest 18th Century palace built in Europe! The Greeks, Etruscans, and Romans have all at one time occupied this region and the architecture across the region illustrates the richness of this history.

The Region is located along the west side of Italy, with the Tyrrhenian Sea along its coast. The region stretches from just north of Naples to south of the town of Sapri.

The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast has been a draw for us and we have been to Amalfi too many times to count.

Crowds in the small towns between Positano and Amalfi can be hard to take, especially when cruise ships visit and thousands make a day-trip to one of the towns. For this area you are probably best not to have a car. Roads are too narrow, parking in the towns is a challenge. Buses run along the coast but they can not handle the crowds. Travel by boat from town to town. Far more relaxing but the boat schedules will require you to have more time in the area. Finally, bring lots of money. You will notice things carry a slightly higher price tag on the Amalfi Coast.

On the Amalfi Coast, Atrani is probably one of the authentic Italian towns. No great "sights" but an endless maze of narrow walkways and stairs to explore. The piazze in the centre of town has excellent a couple of pleasnt cafes.

In 2015 we stayed just outside of Naples and explored that end of the coastal area. Our destinations included Pozzuoli, Procida, as well as Caserta. In 2018 I took a boat to enjoy lunch with friends in the small town of Cetara. The town had a great feel and although it was busy, it did not have that out-of-control feel when tourists take over and wreck the ambiance of a place. Some of our trips have been with groups of our friends and that offers alternatives. With a group you can rent a boat for a private cruize alone the coast and around the Island of Capri. In 2018 we did that and it included a very good lunch at Maria Grazia in the small town of Nerano.

Cilento Coast

This stretches from Paestum to Spari. We have spent time in the charming town of Santa Maria di Castellabate. Agropoli is the largest town and its principle harbour. Paestum has group of temples to visit that will be an experience not forgotten.

The Bay of Naples

The Bay of Naples includes a number of areas to visit and enjoy

Ischia is an island that has over 100 thermal springs with healing properties. There are sandy beaches and hiking trailsup Mount Epomeo for breathtaking views.
Procida is and island between Ischia and the mainland, and is the smallest island in the bay. If there is a single scene to remember it is the brightly colored houses against the aquamarine sea. It is said to offer an authentic glimpse into local Italian life.
Naples is a vibrant city. Explore narrow streets lined with historic churches, palaces, and houses. Visit the National Archaeological Museum, and enjoy the birthplace of the pizza. The Naples Underground has geothermal tunnels. I was foolish with for many years avoiding the city because of fear of crime etc. But now those fears have gone and I find it one of the most exciting cities in Italy. We have stayed in Naples a number of times with each time I like it more and more. Stay right in the centre of the town and just walk and explore.
Pompeii is a large impressive archaeological site.
Herculaneum is another archaeological site to see near Naples.

A M A L F I

Amalfi is our town of choice on the Amalfi Coast. Lively little town, all condensed within a limited walking area. We like that the bus center is right in town. You will be doing a lot of buses on the Amalfi Coast!

A T R A N I

Atrani is an authentic Amalfi Coastal town. Lots of little alleyways to explore and climb.

C A P R I

Capri has lots of high end retail and holds a great view of the sea. Sometimes the hype gets a little too much. How many designer stores can you walk by?

C A S E R T A

Royal Palace

P O M P E I I

Remains of the city OF Pompeii, you can walk for hours and hours seeing the sights.

» Pompeii

N A P L E S
There is no other city in Italy like Naples. Do yourself a favor and take to step to visit this interesting city.

P A E S T U M

a major ancient Greek city. We have visited Paestum a number of times, with our most recent being in 2018. The ruins are famous for thre three ancient Greek temples, of the Doric order, dating from about 600 to 450 BC. They are in very good state of preservation.

R A V E L L O

Historically Ravello was part of the powerful Republic of Amalfi. Now it is a popular town due to its vistas, gardens and summer concerts. The top sights include Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone and the Duomo. Every year we are in Amalfi we always spend a day up in Ravello. If you want, you can even walk up. The steps start just up from where the Ravello road connects with the Coast road.

P R O C I D A

- When in Naples, take the 40 minute boat ride to Procida. You will travel back in time. An islaland of fisherman and dreamy pastel coloured buildings. Narrow streets, old Vespas, colorful boats and breathtaking views.