Southern Italy Itinerary: Naples & Pompeii

Many people start in the Italian capital before venturing south to Naples. Train travel is best in Europe, and it’s approximately four hours from Roma Termini to Napoli Centrale. Naples also has an airport just north of the city center. Depending on your arrival time, drop your bags at the hotel and head out into the city for a stroll. If you’re up for it, a local-guided walking tour is the best way to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings. If you’re not quite ready for a Naples-paced tour, opt for one of the many great self-guided tours.

Reserve a table at the hotel’s restaurant for dinner and tuck in early for a good night’s sleep—you’ll need it for day two!

After a restful night at one of our recommended accommodations, it’s time for day two of your southern Italy itinerary! Board the Circumvesuviana train to Stazione Scavi Villa Misteri. From there, it’s a short walk to the Porta Marina entrance of the Scavi di Pompei. The entrance generally opens at 9:00 am but lines start to form at least 45 minutes before. There are multiple entrances to the ruins; the most popular sights are on the west side of the area.

Can’t miss sites:

• Antiquarium

• Temple of Venus

• Forum

• Basilica

• House of the Vetti

• House of Romulus & Remus

• The Brothel

• Amphitheater

Only a handful of things in life are more thrilling than summiting an active volcano! While it’s impossible to predict when Vesuvius will erupt again (the last eruption was in 1944) it’s highly unlikely to erupt during your trip. The winds are fierce up there, so take a jacket and be prepared for weather-related closures. If going in the summer, take a wide-brimmed hat, plenty of water and sunscreen, as there’s no shade during the trek! Once you reach the top, take your time to soak up the amazing view of the Campania mountains and Bay of Naples!

If you’re not up for hiking, you can spend another day at Pompeii or visit the lesser known, but equally damaged, city of Herculaneum nearby.

To many people’s surprise, most of the human remains of Pompeii are not actually located in Pompeii. They were relocated to the National Archeological Museum, a must-see museum in Naples! Another unforgettable option: Napoli Sotterranea (Naples Underground), a series of ancient, underground tunnels. Originally intended to be aqueducts, these tunnels have served the city in various ways: cisterns, storage and even WWII bomb shelters!

After touring the museum, treat yourself to a meal at a famous pizzeria, Antica Pizzeria de Michele (of Eat, Pray, Love fame) isn’t too far.

Round out your southern Italy itinerary with a guided walking tour (if you haven’t already) or a self-paced tour around the city. If you’ve had your cultural fill, pop into La Feltrinelli at the train station for a book or magazine, or as a reprieve from the hustle and bustle.

Another great option to wind down in this chaotic town is an aperitivo along the bay. While Naples is the birthplace of pizza, don’t forget the sfogliatella and gelato! To commemorate your last day in Naples, head to Ristorante la Scialuppa (high-end) or Mimì alla Ferrovia (more moderately priced) for an exquisite final meal.