Campania, nestled in the heart of southern Italy, is one of the most diverse and enchanting regions of the Italian peninsula. With its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and a rich tapestry of history, this region offers a sensory experience like no other. It is a land where the past and present harmoniously blend, creating a captivating destination for every traveler.
The region's stunning coastline, kissed by the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, is a sight to behold. The Amalfi Coast, with its jagged cliffs, hidden coves, and picturesque villages, has long been a muse for artists and a haven for travelers seeking paradise. Along this famed coast, terraced vineyards, olive groves, and citrus orchards cascade down to the sea, painting a vibrant picture of life and beauty.
The islands of the Gulf of Naples Capri, Ischia, and Procida are jewels in Campania’s crown. Capri enchants with its legendary Blue Grotto, chic streets, and breathtaking views, while Ischia’s thermal springs and sandy beaches invite relaxation. Procida, with its colorful houses and authentic charm, offers a quieter escape, far removed from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Campania’s dramatic landscapes are further defined by Mount Vesuvius, the iconic volcano that looms over the Bay of Naples. This natural wonder, simultaneously awe-inspiring and formidable, shapes the region’s identity. Its fertile volcanic soil nurtures lush vineyards and thriving agriculture, a testament to nature’s resilience and beauty.
Campania is a living museum where history comes alive. Ancient ruins whisper tales of civilizations long past, from the hauntingly preserved cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D., to the grandeur of the Royal Palace of Caserta, an architectural masterpiece that rivals the opulence of Versailles.
Naples, the region's bustling capital, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Its historic center, the largest in Europe, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an open-air museum of ancient churches, grand palaces, and narrow streets alive with the vibrant energy of its people. Beneath its surface lies a labyrinth of underground tunnels, aqueducts, and catacombs, offering a glimpse into the city’s layered history.
Campania’s culinary heritage is as rich and varied as its landscapes. The region is the birthplace of pizza, with Naples proudly serving as the home of the iconic Margherita. Beyond pizza, Naples is renowned for its perfectly cooked spaghetti, paired with an endless variety of sauces that celebrate the simplicity and freshness of local ingredients.
Buffalo mozzarella, a creamy delicacy that has achieved global fame, is another point of pride. Produced using time-honored methods in the lush pastures of Campania, this cheese is the perfect accompaniment to the region's sun-ripened tomatoes, fragrant basil, and artisanal olive oil.
Seafood lovers will delight in the bounty of the Mediterranean, from freshly caught fish to succulent shellfish, often served in simple yet flavorful preparations. For those with a sweet tooth, the region offers tempting treats like sfogliatelle, babà, and pastiera, each bite a celebration of tradition and flavor.
Campania’s wines are a testament to its ancient winemaking heritage. The region is home to exceptional red wines like Taurasi, Aglianico, and Piedirosso, which boast bold flavors and a deep connection to the land. White wines such as Falanghina, Fiano di Avellino, and Greco di Tufo reflect the region’s unique terroir, offering crisp, aromatic profiles that pair perfectly with its vibrant cuisine.
Campania’s towns are as diverse as its landscapes. Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello are coastal gems, their pastel colored houses tumbling down cliffs to meet the sea. Sorrento, perched on a volcanic plateau, offers sweeping views of the Bay of Naples and a relaxed charm that has captivated travelers for centuries.
Inland, the rolling hills of Irpinia and Benevento are dotted with quaint villages where time seems to stand still. Here, ancient traditions endure, from winemaking to artisanal crafts, offering visitors an authentic taste of Campanian life.
Campania boasts an impressive array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from the archaeological marvels of Pompeii and Herculaneum to the architectural grandeur of the Royal Palace of Caserta. The Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic beauty, and Naples, with its historic depth, further cement Campania’s status as a cultural treasure trove.
Campania invites you to embark on a journey of discovery, where every turn reveals a new facet of its charm. Whether you’re exploring its ancient ruins, savoring its culinary delights, or simply soaking in the beauty of its landscapes, this region promises an unforgettable experience that lingers in your heart long after you’ve left.
Welcome to Campania a land of beauty, flavor, and history waiting to be discovered.
Day 1: Naples
Day 2: Ischia
Ischia is, above all, a celebration of the sea, with its stunning beaches and bays. From the fine sands of Pescatori Beach to Inglesi Beach, just a few steps from the port of Ischia, the island offers breathtaking coastal beauty.
A visit to Ischia wouldn’t be complete without a dip at Cartaromana Beach, nestled among black volcanic rocks. Here, natural basins fed by thermal springs provide the rare and unique experience of a thermal bath in seawater.
The area is also a haven for divers, who can explore the underwater history of Aenaria. At a depth of about 7 meters, the remains of a lead and tin foundry have been discovered, offering a fascinating glimpse into the ancient past.
The surrounding waters, including the gulfs of Gaeta, Naples, and Pozzuoli, are rich and thriving ecosystems. They provide a habitat for around seven species of whales and dolphins, including the majestic fin and sperm whales, making this region a treasure trove of marine biodiversity.
Day 3: Herculaneum and Vesuvio Wines
Day 4: Pompeii and Vesuvio Wines
Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with Herculaneum and numerous villas in the surrounding area, was buried under 4 to 6 meters (13 to 20 feet) of volcanic ash and pumice during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
Remarkably preserved beneath the ash, the excavated city offers a unique snapshot of Roman life, frozen at the moment of the disaster. It provides an extraordinarily detailed insight into the daily lives of its inhabitants.
Once a wealthy and vibrant town, Pompeii boasted impressive public buildings and luxurious private homes adorned with lavish decorations. Let our local guide bring this rich history to life as you explore the remnants of this ancient world.
Day 5: Amalfi Coast, Limoncello, and Cooking Class
The Amalfi Coast is celebrated for its breathtaking beauty, with dramatic cliffs, picturesque villages, and the sparkling blue waters of the Gulf of Salerno. In some areas, cliffs towering over 600 meters plunge dramatically into the sea, creating a striking contrast between land and water. This enchanting region has captivated visitors for centuries with its unique blend of natural splendor and cultural charm.
Amid this spectacular landscape lies the Costa d'Amalfi DOC, home to exceptional red, white, and rosé wines. The vineyards of this region are as visually stunning as they are challenging to cultivate, with many perched on steep, terraced slopes. Their remote locations have preserved them from the fate of vineyards on Capri, where tourism has often replaced viticulture.
The Amalfi Coast's vineyards not only produce outstanding wines but also reflect the resilience and dedication of the region’s winemakers, who continue to uphold centuries-old traditions in this extraordinary setting.
Day 6: Mozzarella Farm and Paestum
Mozzarella di Bufala is one of the most important and iconic cheeses made in only a few specific provinces in Italy, using pure buffalo milk.
Buffaloes were introduced to Southern Italy around the year 1000 A.D. by Norman kings, who established buffalo farms in Campania. These animals were brought from Sicily, where they had previously been introduced by the Arabs. Historical records of this cheese date back to the 12th century when it was known as “mozza” or “provatura.” The wet areas of the Sele Valley became a hub for buffalo farming and cheese production, now accounting for approximately 80% of mozzarella production.
The production of PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) buffalo mozzarella, or Mozzarella di Bufala Campana, is limited to the provinces of Salerno and Caserta. This mozzarella is characterized by its porcelain-white color, delicate flavor, and signature sweet aroma.
Made fresh daily, it is crafted into various sizes and shapes, including perlina (beads), ciliegina (cherries), bocconcino (morsels), and larger forms such as trecce (braids) and nodini (knots), which can weigh up to three kilograms. Whether shaped by hand or machine, each piece reflects the artisanal care that goes into its production.
Paestum, a perfectly preserved city of Magna Graecia, is a remarkable testament to ancient Greek civilization in Italy.
The ruins of Paestum are renowned for their three ancient Greek temples, dating from approximately 600 to 450 BC, which are remarkably well-preserved. These temples stand as some of the best examples of Greek Doric architecture outside of Greece itself.
The city's defensive walls and amphitheater remain largely intact, and the lower portions of many other structures, including paved roads, are still visible, offering a vivid glimpse into its historical past.
The entire ancient city of Paestum spans an area of approximately 120 hectares. However, only 25 hectares, containing the three main temples and other prominent buildings, have been excavated. The remaining 95 hectares remain on private land and have yet to be studied. Despite this, the visible ruins, surrounded by the enduring city walls, provide a captivating insight into the grandeur of this ancient city.
Day 7: Amalfi Coast by Private Boat
Day 8: Capri
Day 9: Departure
Meeting Point: Napoli Airport.
Tour Duration: 8 days, 8 nights.
Group Size: Minimum of 2 people.
What's Included
What's Not Included
Gratuities
Minimum Participants: Tours run with a minimum of 2 people. Should the minimum not be reached for the day you selected, you will have the option to:
Seasonal Menus: As we only use fresh, seasonal ingredients, the menu will vary depending on what is available on the day of your tour.
Dietary Preferences: Please inform us in advance if you have any food allergies or preferences to ensure your experience is tailored to your needs.