How to Spend 2 Weeks in Southern Italy

Naples has, historically, been ruled by various European empires and civilizations. Today, Italian culture blends with French, Spanish, Norman, Roman, Greek, and other influences. The diversity of Naples and the Bay of Naples's stunning setting are among the reasons adventures across southern Italy begin beneath the peaks of Mount Vesuvius.

Guided tours underground of Napoli Sotterranea reveal the hidden secrets of Ancient Greece buried beneath modern Naples, trips to Pompeii and Herculaneum highlight the remarkable activity of Mount Vesuvius, and culinary tours showcase the depth of authentic Neapolitan flavor in the best dishes to try in Naples.

You may view the romantic Caravaggio and Baroque architecture of Roman cathedrals, appreciate the contemporary artworks of the Donnaregina Contemporary Art Museum, and trace historical roots within the Castel Nuovo and Castel dell’Ovo.

Things to Do in Naples: Trek the trails up Mount Vesuvius • Witness the ruins of Pompeii • Admire the ancient architecture of Castel Nuovo and Castel dell’Ovo • Head underground to see Naples’ historic origins in the Napoli Sotterranea • View contemporary masterpieces in the Donnaregina Contemporary Art Museum

Small in size, but large in life, the resort town of Sorrento is a gateway to the awe-inspiring Amalfi Coast. Romance exudes from the idyllic town perched on cliffs that plunge into the sweeping blue waters of the Gulf of Naples.

Adventures in Sorrento commonly begin in the bustling Piazza Tasso, where famous poets and historical writers like Byron and Dickens once wandered in search of inspiration for their works. During your stay you can warm your belly with the hearty flavors of Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, wade in the dreamy waters circling the Roman ruins of Bagni Regina Giovanna, and wander the lively Marina Grande and Marina Piccola boardwalks.

Should you choose to explore more of Italy beyond the southern gem of Sorrento, you can visit Tuscan towns and the central capital on Venice, Florence, Rome, and Sorrento tours that pass through southern Italy.

Things to Do in Sorrento: Embrace the local atmosphere emanating from the Piazza Tasso • Enjoy regional delicacies such as Gnocchi alla Sorrentina • Swim in the warm waters surrounding the Bagni Regina Giovanna Roman ruins • Embrace the luxuries of the Marina Grande • Peruse the tranquil Chiostro di San Francesco monastery

The Amalfi Coast’s 30-mile stretch of coastline boasts sheer cliffs, sparkling shores, and charming fishing villages that invite travelers to experience the best of the southern Italian seaboard along the Sorrentine Peninsula.

The best way to see the Amalfi Coast is by car, cruising around the twists and turns of the coastal road that shares panoramas of the pine tree-fringed peninsula and lemon groves crawling across the mountainsides.

You can head from Positano to the Fiordo di Furore, Italy’s only fjord, and catch the sunrise as it glimmers off the turquoise waters beneath the dramatic gorge. Ravello's medieval streets and tranquil gardens are also the perfect places for sunsets on Amalfi Coast tours and vacations.

Things to Do on the Amalfi Coast: Set off on a scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast road • Capture stunning photography of Italy’s only fjord • Reminisce about the Moorish roots of Ravello • Capture the wonder of glowing sea caves at the Emerald Grotto

Retreat to the island of Capri, off the coast of the Sorrentine Peninsula, for two nights spent lapping up the luxurious atmosphere as you sip limoncello overlooking the electric-blue sea.

The island’s Marina Grande is no stranger to celebrity visitors who choose the pristine island paradise as their Italian getaway, anchoring super yachts in the harbor and crossing the bay to chic restaurants with dazzling views. You can brush shoulders with influential figures as you explore the vibrant Piazzetta di Capri, exclusive beach clubs, breathtaking lookout points, and Caprese culinary hotspots.

On a warm, sunny day you can jump onto a lavish yacht and cross the azure waters to the spellbinding Blue Grotto. Capri’s claim to fame inspires curious visitors on Capri vacations and tours, who sail into the enormous underwater cave to see the iridescent blue reflection that illuminates its interior.

Things to Do in Capri: Tour the mindblowing Blue Grotto • Fine dine at chic restaurants in and around Piazzetta di Capri • Ascend to the summit of Mount Solaro by chairlift • Wallow in the peaceful seaside setting • Discover history flooding the historic center of Anacapri

Sicily, the Mediterranean’s largest island, is a surreal spot in southern Italy on which to conclude your two-week adventure. Boasting a rich history, a captivating culture, and sensational scenery, Sicily represents the ultimate end to your invigorating exploration.

Mount Etna is a marvelous active volcano that commands attention from every corner of Sicily, Villa Romana del Casale embodies ancient Roman creativity through immaculate mosaics that veil its grand interior, and the Valle dei Templi in Agrigento is a magnificent demonstration of preserved Magna Graecia art and architecture.

While staying here on Sicily tours and vacations, you can explore these exquisite highlights and more as you peruse the abundant treasures of Palermo, Catania, and Taormina, to name a few.

Things to Do in Sicily: Make your way to lookout points of Mount Etna • Trace Roman history at the Villa Romana del Casale • Appreciate the remarkable Magna Graecia architecture at the Valle dei Templi • Visit the captivating Cattedrale di Monreale • View the awe-inspiring church mosaics of Palermo

From pastel-colored villages flanked by forested hills to ancient ruins preserving generations of Greek history, southern Italy’s surreal settings will seduce. To sample the experiences that await you, explore our 2-week Southern Italy itineraries or view more of our Southern Italy tours & vacations.

If you wish to wallow in the charming Mediterranean culture, dine on delicious delicacies with the locals, or capture the captivating coastal scenery as you delve into dramatic Ancient Greek history, then plan your trip with helpful tips in our Southern Italy travel guide.