Itinerary ● Discover Campania.
🔼 Above: Over the rooftops of Sessa Aurunca (📷).
Naples (Napoli) ● 2 nights.
Our Campanian odyssey begins in Napoli, an exhilirating and intense cultural city which is among the most important in Italy. Real, raw, unadulterated; senses will be heightened, and rewards for the adventurous are plentiful.
🔼 Above: View of the city with Vesuvius (📷) from Castel Sant'Elmo.
A maze of contrasts, the historic centre — both unpolished and elegant — is always a tad chaotic. Weaved within, ancient alleyways burst with vibrant energy. Marvel at the Duomo di Napoli, a Gothic masterpiece, and explore the underground city: a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers.
As the birthplace of pizza, you can enjoy delicious margharita here, namely at the Antica Pizzeria Port'Alba, designated as the world’s first pizzeria, with roots back to 1830, perhaps even earlier.
Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli is one of the foremost museums in its field of study. Stunning artefacts including intricate sculpture amassed from Pompeii, Herculaneum, and other sites preserve valuable insight to the region’s ancient empires.
A diamond lies below the surface. Cappella Sansevero is an incredible Baroque chapel with remarkable marble sculptures; Veiled Christ by Giuseppe Sanmartino being the most evocative and well-renowned.
Staying subterranean, Catacombe di San Gennaro date back to the 2nd century AD. An important early Christian burial site, these tombs sprawl over multiple levels, entombing bishops and saints. The well-preserved frescoes and mosaics that adorn the walls are both eerie and intriguing.
The oldest castle in Napoli, Castel dell'Ovo derives its name from a legend linked to the famous poet Virgil. Immersed in myth, the castle occupies a small island connected to the mainland. Its position in the Gulf of Naples provides great panoramas of the city and Mount Vesuvius.
Prestigious and stunning, Teatro di San Carlo, conceals a palpable energy in its awe-inspiringly lavish interior. Inaugurated in 1737, this is the world’s oldest continuously functioning opera house. Echoes of musical excellence can be experienced in real time by attending a performance — an incredible and memorable outing.
Sessa Aurunca ● 1 night.
Venture to Campania’s northern heartland. Spend the night in Sessa Aurunca, a relatively obscure choice among tourists — local and international — to this part of the country.
Rolling hills embrace this historic town (📷), home to the Aurunci people, a tribal community who valiantly resisted Roman conquests. A night here grants a peek behind the curtain into a fascinating town with a distinct cultural flair which differs greatly from the capital.
Many architectural gems are strewn through tightly-knit streets (📷), notably the Duomo di Sessa Aurunca (📷) — a Romanesque and Baroque gem with gorgeous marble décor and mosaic floor. Home to the second-largest Teatro romano in Campania, the ruined amphitheatre once would have hosted up to 10,000 attendants in its heyday. The dome of the Chiesa dell' Annunziata (📷) is eye-catching, adding a splash of colour over the rooftops.
Caserta ● 2 nights.
Discovery continues as you make way to the regal city of Caserta. Before your arrival, you should make two very special stops along the way.
Following an elliptical floorplan, this impressive amphitheatre mirrors The Collosseum in its structure — yet this pre-dates the icon.
(📷 via: Wikimedia Commons)
A tiny village salvaged from abandon by spectacular street artists. The sleepy, sloped streets reveal touching "murales“ at each turn. An essential detour.
(📷 via: Dario Cannamela).
On arrival, make haste for the Reggia di Caserta, a crown jewel of Italian architecture and horticulture. Commissioned by Charles of Bourbon in the 18th century, it is one of the largest royal residences in the world. A plethora of Baroque beauties can be admired here. Inside, lavishly decorated halls, grand staircases, and exquisite frescoes. Outside, sprawling gardens present fanciful fountains, sculptures, and water features.
The stunning centrepiece cascade culminates at Fontana di Diana e Atteone, depicting the myth. Bagno di Venere is a hideaway which shines through subtlety, mysitique, and allure; much like Venus herself.
To get a sense of Caserta's history beyond the royal palace, extend for a second night. Explore the Borgo di Casertavecchia to uncover the roots of this area. An atmospheric medieval village perched on a nearby hill, characterised by stone buildings. The monarchy lived here until the construction of the Reggia.
As time marched on, the textile industry became pivotal to the local economy and bolstered the reputation of Caserta throughout the land. Belvedere San Leucio preserves a former silk factory. An interesting insight to the lives of every-day workers whose expert weaving found its way into Buckingham Palace, the White House and Rome’s Quirinal Palace.
Vietri sul Mare ● 1 night.
As the first town on the Amalfi Coast, Vietri sul Mare holds a unique charm that sets it apart from its famous neighbors. Before you greet the sea, do not skip two iconic stops en-route.
Sant'Agata de' Goti.
Perched atop a dramatic cliff, this town captivates with its scenic setting and medieval heritage. Houses and palaces cling to the tufa, casting a picturesque silhouette against the sky. The area is known for its crisp wines.
Scavi di Pompeii.
Mighty Pompeii is among the most fascinating — and famous — ancient settlements on Earth. It met its untimely demise after Vesuvius’ monolithic eruption in 79 AD. Wander the streets, once buried beneath layers of ash, and soak in the history.
Welcome to Costiera Amalfitana! A legendary stretch of coast, among the most sought-after places in Europe; home to the highest-of-high-end hotels, sweeping vistas and the endless sapphire glow of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Colourful ceramics define Vietri, a tradition dates which back centuries. Its influence is impossible to miss as you wander through the streets.
Shops overflow with hand-painted tiles, vases, and tableware, showcasing intricate designs and vivid hues. Designs adorn walls and balconies, seamlessly blending with the unfolding of the coast behind.
But Vietri is more than just ceramics. The town's main church, Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, is a beautiful example of Neapolitan Baroque architecture. Another element which sets apart this town from others on the coast is its expansive beach.
Positano ● 2 nights.
Tumbling down a dramatic cliff, Positano’s pastel-colored houses unfold to embrace the sea. The definitive town of the Amalfi Coast, this is a tourist haven worthy of its praise. Explore treasures as you hug the coastal road; deviate to Ravello for show-stopping surprises.
Perched high above the sea, the quaint town of Ravello reveals one of the most beautiiful residences in Italy. Villa Rufolo boasts manicured terraced gardens with vast views; a postcard-perfect pit stop.
(📷 via: Wikimedia Commons)
The namesake settlement along the coast, Amalfi town harkens back to its lineage as a maritime trade hub. The spoils of this wealth were flaunted in the gorgeous Duomo, regaled in beautiful patterns.
(📷 via: Wikimedia Commons)
As you approach via the winding road, the view that emerges truly sells the hype. Steep slopes cascade down (📷) to a stylish lido, lined with aperitivo spots and chic restaurants. Framed by greenery and the sparkle of The Med.
Once upon a time, Positano was a working-class fishing town. A mid-century renaissance in the 20th century has persisted. Now, sleepy charm is replaced by a glamorous (and expensive) reputation. Views from the town’s countless terraces (📷) are, well, pretty much perfect. They embody the dream of The Coast to those who have — until this moment — yet to experience it.
A popular passtime, boating (📷) is a must-do here. Whether voyaging near or far, private or shared, there are options for (almost any) budget. Casting a glance back at the town from a distance, admiring the mosaic of colours ascending uphill, is a perspective that truly lets its grandeur sink in. Pair with a glass of sparkling wine and antipasti nibbles and it’s truly "la dolce vita“.
Capri ● 2 nights.
Sun-soaked sea, unforgettable views, luxurious villas, and seafaring yachts. Does it sound like a dream? If so, Capri is likely to be a highlight of your trip. Embark on a quick ferry from Positano, into the azure, bound for this woozy wonderland.
A beloved destination for centuries, drawing everyone from Roman emperors to Hollywood stars, it will become apparent why from the start. Nearing your approach, the island rises majestically from the sea. Your next two nights bear the promise of precious memories.
Capri Town (📷) is the hearthtrob of the island. A piazzetta, a charming square lined with cafes, marks the perfect espresso break spot. Boujee boutiques showcase high-fashion and local crafts, flanked by narrow side-streets. Don't miss the beautiful Giardini di Augusto, with its meandering staircase and priceless bird’s-eye viewpoint.
Whether here, or from one of several belvederes that encircle, the Faraglioni Rocks (📷) are the breathtaking centrepiece of Capri. These scattered sea stacks impress in scale, yet somehow, deliver on a deeper level — an innate energy surrounds them (as does a flurry of lovestruck boaters). Adventurous travellers find themselves at Grotte Verde (📷), one of Capri's sea caves; its emerald-green waters a reflection of its name.
Anacapri denotes the island's elevated side. Here, visit the magnificent Villa San Michele (📷). Relatively new, dating back to the late 1800s, the location is the centre of contemporary cool on Capri; plus pleasant gardens, surreal views, and quirky ornaments.
Ischia ● 2 nights.
Ischia, the largest of the islands in the Bay of Naples, is a firm favourite with local Italian tourists — and all who seek out authenticity and respite. Think rejuvenating thermal springs, quietly cool coastal towns and a pretty damn impressive fortress.
Of volcanic origins, Ischia is blessed with a lush, varied landscape, spanning verdant mountains to rugged coast. Its naturally occuring thermal waters are prized — and have long been — for their therapeutic properties. Two of the best places to enjoy a full experience is Giardini Poseidon Terme and Negombo.
The latter is known for its classy appeal, tucked away in the north-east corner of the island close to iconic luxury hotel Mezzatorre and the horticultural mastery of Giardini La Mortella, a serene place filled with subtropical plants and fantastical water features.
Just south of here, Forio is arguably the most quaint town of Ischia, complete with nice beaches and the whimsical Soccorso Church.
On the subject of swoon-worthy seaside towns, Sant'Angelo straddles a small peninsula in the south. This fishing village exudes charm and tradition. Here, bask in the sun and enjoy a handful of really cool spots to eat and drink away the hours.
When the sun shines, it seems fit to hit the "spiaggia". In such moments, Maronti Beach is the place to be. This is Ischia's longest beach, its sandy shores stretching far.
For anyone who knows of Ischia, no visit would be complete without the Castello Aragonese. An imposing castle, perched on a outcrop, connected by a causeway, it is a truly the utmost symbol of Ischia's rich history. Originally built in the 5th century BC, it has been expanded and modified over the centuries by various rulers. Today, it's a fascinating complex of historic churches, gardens, and offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
Procida ● 1 night.
A dainty little sister island to Ischia, Procida brims with charm. What it lacks in size and excitement, it makes up for in its kaleidoscope of colour and authentic breezy vibe. Corricella (🔼 Above) is the island’s main settlement, a thriving harbour where fishing boats gently drift in the bay, backed by a cluster of beautiful homes in pastel shades.
Terra Murata domineers overhead. This fortified medieval town occupies the island's highest point, and features the former prison Palazzo d’Avalos, now a museum. A steep climb lies ahead as you make way to the pinnacle of Procida. Your walk with be worthy, however, as you have incredible vista across the entire Gulf of Naples from up here.
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Napoli: Hopestel Secret Garden 🟢 ● Costantinopoli 104 🟡 ● Artemisia Domus Giardino 🟠.
Sessa Aurunca: Ercole Lux Flat 🟡.
Caserta: Cas'E Charming House 🟡.
Vietri sul Mare: Palazzo Suriano 🟠.
Positano: Villa Yiara 🟠 ● Hotel Royal Prisco 🟠 ● Le Sirenuse 🟣.
Capri: Hotel Punta Tragara 🟠 ● Tiberio Palace 🟣 ● J.K. Place 🟣.
Ischia: Faro Punta Imperatore 🟠 ● Casa al Sole 🟠 ● Il Monastero 🟠 ● Mezzatorre Hotel 🟣.
Procida: La Corricella 🟡 ● San Michele Boutique Hotel 🟠.
Key: 🟢 (€) ● 🟡 (€€) ● 🟠 (€€€) ● 🟣 (€€€€).