Great Day Trips From Naples Italy

With everything there is to do and see in Naples, you may not want to spare the time for a day trip away from the city. However, the region offers an incredibly diverse set of landscapes and experiences that are unlike any other, and it’s well worth taking some time away from the heart of Naples to explore more of Southern Italy. Here are some of the best destinations:

Amalfi Coast & Sorrento

The Amalfi Coast is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful places in the world. The sheer cliffs and crystal blue Mediterranean waters combine to create spectacular views, and the coast is dotted with charming little fishing villages and small golden beaches. The climate is ideal for lemons, so not only are the terraces and orchards crowded with fragrant trees, but it’s the home of limoncello, the most Italian of liqueurs after Campari. The famous Amalfi Drive weaves along the coastline, connecting the towns and villages, and offering stunning views at every turn.

While the Amalfi Coast is dotted with famous little towns, from historic Amalfi itself, to idyllic Ravello and glittering Positano, Sorrento is a must-see. Sorrento is easily accessible from Naples, and boasts incredible views of Naples, Vesuvius, and the Isle of Capri. The city of Sorrento dates back to Roman times, and has a rich archaeological and cultural history. The tiny town is home to historic cathedrals and monasteries, gorgeous parks and piazzas, Roman ruins, and is famous for limoncello and antique shopping. The mild Mediterranean climate and incredible landscapes make it a tempting visit from Naples any time of year.

Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius

Pompeii was the site of one of the world’s most famous catastrophes, and has been explored and excavated for over 250 years. Part of the larger Mount Vesuvius National Park, Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and draws millions of visitors a year. Visitors to the site can see fascinating details of daily life as it took place in AD79, with food in the ovens, graffiti on the walls, and the ancient art and frescoes of the time. The Garden of Fugitives displays plaster casts of the final moments of some of the inhabitants of Pompeii, and it’s a moving experience.

Because the site is no longer buried and protected by the earth, Pompeii is in danger of ongoing deterioration due to tourism, weather, erosion, plant growth, and various other factors. The site needs greater preservation and protections, and parts of it are now not accessible to visitors.

For that reason, when visiting Pompeii, it’s a great idea to also take time to also visit Mount Vesuvius itself, or to include nearby Herculaneum and Stabiae, to reduce pressure on the single site. Mount Vesuvius is covered with natural hiking trails, including a walk to the crater itself. The tour of the crater includes a talk from a vulcanology guide who speaks about the history of the mountain and the volcano, and the role it has played in the history of the region. If volcanoes aren’t your thing, the mountain still offers spectacular views across the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi Coast, and is a wonderful natural destination. 

Herculaneum

For those who are interested in the ruins of Pompeii, Herculaneum is perhaps an even better destination. Herculaneum was a wealthier town, with fine homes and more elaborate marbles and frescoes. Unlike Pompeii, wooden and organic matter was better preserved after the 79AD eruption of Mount Vesuvius, and the site has received less traffic in the ensuing centuries, so it is often a better experience for interested visitors. An incredible number of important artifacts have been recovered from the site, and the ruins have fascinating architecture, artwork, and insights into the daily lives of the ancient inhabitants of the city.

Capri

Capri is a destination in and of itself, as well as a fantastic day trip from Naples. The tiny island is just 4 square miles, and soars to a dramatic nearly 2000 feet above sea level. It has spectacular views and natural sites for those who like to hike and explore, incredible beaches and water activities for those who want to bask in the Mediterranean sun, ancient Roman villas, charming cafes and shopping, and tiny communities all just minutes from the mainland. Tour the incredible Blue Grotto, take a chair lift to the peak of the island, and find a spot to experience the world-famous sunsets on Capri. 

Procida

Often overshadowed by Capri and Ischia, the island of Procida in the Bay of Naples can actually make for a more relaxing and less expensive day out than its bigger neighbors. You can reach its shores in just over half an hour by boat from Naples.

Ischia

Spend the day on the lush green island of Ischia and escape the heat and hustle of Naples. Discover curiosities on every corner and marvel at the natural beauty of the sunken craters, rocky spikes and lava hills of the volcanic island. Be sure to visit the Aragonese Castle and explore the village of Sant’Angelo.