The first time I landed in Naples, I stepped outside the train station and was instantly swept into the chaos of the city. Scooters buzzed past me with the kind of confidence only Neapolitans seem to have, the smell of strong espresso drifted from a tiny corner bar, and there, in the distance, Vesuvius rose up against the skyline like a silent guardian.
Within an hour, I had eaten my first authentic Neapolitan pizza, still the best I’ve ever had and realized this wasn’t going to be the kind of trip where you tick off a few sights and move on. Campania felt like a place you could return to over and over again and still only scratch the surface.
What makes Campania so special is the way it blends opposites. One minute you’re weaving through Naples’ gritty alleyways, past laundry strung high above the cobbled streets, and the next you’re staring out over the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea from the cliffs of Sorrento. Ancient ruins sit side by side with bustling modern life, and a single day can take you from Michelin-starred dining rooms to eating €2 street food while standing at a counter. It’s a region of contrasts, but that’s what makes it so addictive.
In this guide, I’ll share my favorite things to do in Campania, not just the big sights, but also the food, the day trips, and the small, practical details that make the difference between feeling rushed and actually enjoying your time. Whether you have just a day to spare or a full week to explore, I’ve broken it all down into easy itineraries and tips so you can get the best out of your trip without feeling overwhelmed.
Quick Facts & How to Use This Guide
Campania is one of Italy’s most fascinating regions, sitting in the south with Naples as its capital and main transport hub. It stretches across a wide area: westward to the islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida; south along the Amalfi Coast and down into the quieter Cilento; and inland to treasures like the Royal Palace of Caserta. Because it’s so diverse, planning a trip here can feel a little overwhelming at first but that’s where this guide comes in.
Timing matters a lot in Campania. If you can, aim for late spring or early autumn May, June, September, or October. The weather is warm but not sweltering, ferries and buses are running regularly, and you avoid the worst of the crowds. In July and August, things get trickier. The sun is relentless, ferries are packed, and coastal towns like Positano and Amalfi can feel more like theme parks than villages.
Locals know this, which is why many escape to the mountains or to the longer, sandy beaches in the Cilento. Winter is a completely different experience. Some ferries stop running and many hotels on the Amalfi Coast shut their doors until spring, but Naples stays lively year-round, and places like Pompeii are far more pleasant to explore without the summer sun beating down on you.
How you use this guide depends on your travel style. If you’re only passing through, I’ll show you the essentials you can cover in a single day. If you have a long weekend, you’ll find suggestions on how to split your time between Naples, Pompeii, and a day on the water. And if you’re lucky enough to have a full week, I’ll take you further to Paestum’s ancient temples, the beaches of the Cilento, and maybe even a glass of wine on the slopes of Vesuvius. Think of this as a flexible map: you can dip in and out, add or skip days, and piece together the version of Campania that excites you most.
Where to Base Yourself
Naples
Naples is raw, chaotic, and unforgettable and that’s exactly why I love it. It doesn’t try to smooth over its rough edges for visitors, which means what you see is real life in full swing. As a base, it makes perfect sense: you’re within easy reach of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Vesuvius, plus ferries leave daily for Capri, Ischia, and Procida. The city is also on Italy’s high-speed rail network, so if you’re combining Campania with Rome or Florence, you can get here in just over an hour from the capital.
But let me be honest: Naples can be overwhelming, especially around the central train station where traffic, street vendors, and a steady flow of people never really stop. It’s noisy, it’s crowded, and yes you should keep an eye out for pickpockets. If you can look past that, though, the rewards are huge. You’ll eat the best pizza of your life, dive into some of Italy’s richest history at the archaeological museum, and get a taste of southern Italian energy that no other city can match.
Sorrento
Perched high on the cliffs, Sorrento feels like the polished cousin to Naples. The streets are neater, the hotels more resort-style, and the atmosphere much calmer. From here, ferries zip across the bay to Capri and down the coast to Positano, and you can still hop on the train to Pompeii or Naples if you want a day of sightseeing.
Sorrento is tourist-friendly to its core menus in English, plenty of gelato shops, and boutique hotels with sea views. The downside is that prices reflect the demand, especially in summer. If you’re traveling as a family or want something easy and stress-free, Sorrento is a great choice. Just don’t expect the same raw edge you’d find in Naples.
Amalfi or Positano
If waking up to jaw-dropping coastal views is your idea of heaven, then basing yourself directly on the Amalfi Coast is worth the splurge. Imagine stepping onto your balcony in Positano, coffee in hand, as pastel houses spill down the cliffs toward the sea. Or wandering through Amalfi’s piazza in the evening when day-trippers have gone and the cathedral glows under soft lights.
Of course, staying here comes with trade-offs. Hotels are expensive, parking is nearly impossible, and the steep staircases can be exhausting. In peak season, getting around can feel more stressful than relaxing. But if this is a special trip, a honeymoon, an anniversary, or just a long-dreamed-of getaway, the magic of being right on the coast is hard to beat.
Must-Do Highlights in Campania
Pompeii & Herculaneum
No matter how many photos you’ve seen, nothing prepares you for the first time you walk down Pompeii’s cobbled streets. The city feels frozen in time from the grooves left by ancient carts to frescoes still visible on villa walls. I spent hours wandering and still didn’t see it all. It’s easy to lose yourself imagining what life must have been like just before Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD.
Herculaneum, on the other hand, is smaller but in many ways more intimate. Because it was buried under a thicker layer of volcanic material, wooden beams, mosaics, and even food remains have survived remarkably well. It also tends to be less crowded, which makes it easier to explore at your own pace.
Getting there is simple: hop on the Circumvesuviana train from Naples about 35 minutes to Pompeii or 20 minutes to Herculaneum. Plan for at least three to four hours at Pompeii, and two at Herculaneum if you’re doing both in a day. Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen because shade is scarce, and wear comfortable shoes; the stones are uneven and hard on your feet.
Mount Vesuvius & Lacryma Christi Wineries
Looking at Vesuvius from Naples is one thing, but standing on its rim and peering into the crater is another entirely. The bus or shuttle drops you partway up, and from there it’s about a 30-minute uphill walk. It’s not overly strenuous, but the path is dusty and can be hot under the sun, so go early in the day if you can. The views across the Bay of Naples make every step worthwhile.
What many visitors don’t realize is that the slopes of Vesuvius are covered in vineyards. The volcanic soil produces unique wines, most famously Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio. You’ll find white, red, and rosé versions, often paired with local cheeses and rustic pasta dishes at family-run wineries. Spending a few hours tasting wine after a hike is one of my favorite ways to balance history with a little indulgence.
Naples: Food, Museums & Street Life
Naples is a city that hits all your senses at once. It’s messy, loud, delicious, and completely captivating.
The National Archaeological Museum is a must if you’ve been to (or are going to) Pompeii, because many of the finest mosaics, frescoes, and artifacts are preserved here. Afterward, lose yourself in Spaccanapoli, the narrow artery that cuts straight through the historic center. It’s lined with churches, artisan shops, and tiny cafés where locals sip espresso standing up.
And then there’s the pizza. Neapolitan pizza has UNESCO recognition for a reason, and I still remember my first bite at Da Michele. The crust was chewy yet light, the tomato sauce tangy and fresh, the mozzarella creamy. If the line there is too long, Sorbillo is another excellent option. A tip: go at lunchtime when queues move faster, and don’t overthink the toppings. A classic Margherita or Marinara is perfect.
Amalfi Coast: Positano, Amalfi & Ravello
Few drives are as iconic as the Amalfi Coast road, but honestly, I think seeing it from the water is even better. Ferries run along the coast in summer, and arriving in Positano by boat is unforgettable. The town itself is beautiful but often crowded, with narrow streets that quickly fill up in peak season. I like visiting in the late afternoon, when many day-trippers are heading back to Naples.
Amalfi has a grand cathedral and a central piazza perfect for people-watching over a gelato. Ravello, perched high above, is a quieter escape. Its gardens Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone are worth the climb, especially for the terrace views that stretch endlessly along the coast.
If you’re into hiking, the Path of the Gods is one of Italy’s most scenic trails. It winds above the cliffs, offering jaw-dropping views, but be prepared: parts are steep and exposed, so bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water.
Capri, Ischia & Procida
Each of Campania’s islands has a different personality.
Capri is glamorous, with designer boutiques, the famous Blue Grotto, and viewpoints like Monte Solaro that make the ferry ride worthwhile. It’s best explored beyond the crowded piazzetta hike out to the Arco Naturale or take a boat tour around the island.
Ischia is larger and less flashy. Known for its thermal spas and lush gardens, it’s a favorite weekend retreat for Neapolitans. Spend an afternoon soaking in a hot spring, then wander the Aragonese Castle perched on a rocky islet.
Procida is the quietest of the three. Its pastel-painted fishing houses around Marina Corricella are pure postcard material, and the pace of life here feels wonderfully slow. In 2022, it was named Italy’s Capital of Culture, but it still flies under the radar compared to Capri.
Paestum & the Cilento
Further south, past Salerno, lies Paestum. The Greek temples here are astonishingly older than the Roman ruins of Pompeii, yet beautifully preserved. Standing among the massive Doric columns at sunset, with hardly any other visitors around, was one of my most moving experiences in Campania.
The surrounding Cilento coast is equally special but far less visited. It’s all about sandy beaches, small fishing villages, and mozzarella di bufala straight from local dairies. If you’ve only experienced the hustle of the Amalfi Coast, the Cilento will feel like discovering a secret.
Royal Palace of Caserta
Caserta is often described as Italy’s Versailles, and it lives up to the comparison. The palace has an enormous 1,200 rooms with grand staircases, frescoed ceilings, and gardens that seem to stretch on forever. The fountains and cascades are especially beautiful on a sunny day, and because it’s less famous than Pompeii or Capri, you’ll often find it pleasantly uncrowded.
Food & Where to Eat
If there’s one reason I’d tell you to come to Campania, it’s the food. I don’t think I’ve ever eaten so consistently well anywhere else in Italy, and that’s saying something. The cuisine here is bold and unfussy; it lets good ingredients speak for themselves.
Take pizza in Naples. It’s not just food; it’s part of the city’s identity. My very first Margherita in Naples came with a crust that was slightly charred at the edges, a tomato base so bright it almost tasted sweet, and mozzarella that melted into creamy puddles. That’s all you need: tomato, mozzarella, basil, and dough. Don’t be surprised if there’s a line out the door at places like Da Michele or Sorbillo. The queues move quickly, and half the fun is watching the pizzaiolo fling dough into the air before sliding it into a wood-fired oven.
Along the coast, seafood is the star. In Sorrento, I ordered spaghetti alle vongole at a little trattoria overlooking the harbor, and the simplicity of pasta, clams, garlic, and olive oil was pure perfection. On the Amalfi Coast, you’ll find fried anchovies wrapped in paper cones a perfect snack to eat as you stroll along the waterfront.
And then there are the sweets. I’ll never forget biting into a warm sfogliatella, a crisp, shell-shaped pastry filled with sweet ricotta while standing outside a bakery in Naples. Along the coast, everything seems to be flavored with lemons, from lemon granita to cakes soaked in limoncello. Speaking of limoncello, don’t leave without trying a tiny chilled glass. The best ones are often homemade, sold in little bottles that you’ll find in family-run shops.
Campania also produces some of Italy’s most underrated wines. If you see Falanghina, Piedirosso, or Greco di Tufo on the menu, try a glass. They’re local varieties that rarely make it far beyond Italy, which makes drinking them here feel special.
A quick budget tip: eating in Campania doesn’t have to break the bank. Street food in Naples think pizza fritta or arancini usually costs just a couple of euros. A sit-down meal in a mid-range trattoria might run you €15–25 per person, while fine dining on the Amalfi Coast can easily top €60 per head. I like to mix it up: grab cheap eats in Naples, then splurge on one memorable meal overlooking the sea.
Itineraries
Planning a trip to Campania can feel a little overwhelming because there’s just so much packed into the region’s ruins, islands, coastlines, and cities. To make it easier, I’ve put together a few sample itineraries. Think of these as flexible roadmaps. You can use them exactly as written or swap in and out stops depending on your energy and interests.
1 Day in Campania
If you only have a day, keep things simple and base yourself in Naples. I’d start with an early-morning wander through the old town, when the streets are just waking up. Grab a quick espresso at a bar standing at the counter like locals do and let yourself drift along Spaccanapoli, the narrow street that slices through the heart of the city. You’ll pass little churches, bakeries opening their shutters, and maybe hear a street musician tuning up for the day.
By late morning, hop on the Circumvesuviana train and head straight to Pompeii. Give yourself at least three hours to explore; it’s not nearly enough to see everything, but it will give you a sense of the scale. Walking those ancient streets under the looming shadow of Vesuvius is an experience that sticks with you.
Come back to Naples in the evening and reward yourself with pizza. If you’ve still got energy, finish the day with a slow gelato stroll along the waterfront, where the city buzz softens into sea air.
3 Days in Campania
With a long weekend, you can go a little deeper. On your first day, stay in Naples and split your time between culture and food. The Archaeological Museum is a great starting point; it ties in beautifully with a later visit to Pompeii and gives context to what you’ll see. For lunch, grab pizza, of course, and in the evening treat yourself to seafood at one of the many local trattorias. Don’t skip the evening passeggiata (that untranslatable Italian ritual of strolling through piazzas after dinner). It’s the best way to soak up the city’s rhythm.
On day two, set out for Pompeii in the morning before the sun gets too strong. After exploring the ruins, continue up to Mount Vesuvius. The climb to the crater isn’t long, but the views stretch all the way across the Bay of Naples. On the way down, stop at a vineyard on the volcanic slopes for a tasting. It’s a slower, more relaxing way to balance out the history and hiking.
Use your third day for an island escape. Take the ferry to Capri, where you can ride the chairlift up Monte Solaro for sweeping views, then head down for a boat tour around the island if the weather is calm. Don’t forget to wander Capri town itself, with its winding alleys and little cafés.
5 Days in Campania
Five days gives you a chance to balance the energy of Naples with the glamour of the coast and the depth of the ruins. Spend your first day exploring Naples’ old town and indulging in its food scene. This will help you get your bearings. On day two, dedicate yourself to history: tackle both Pompeii and Herculaneum. It’s a long day on your feet and can be overwhelming, but seeing both sites side by side really deepens your understanding of what life was like before the eruption.
Day three is for the Amalfi Coast. Take the ferry to Positano and Amalfi for that classic cliffside view and seaside atmosphere. It will be busy, but that’s part of the experience. On day four, head up to Ravello for its spectacular gardens, and if you’ve got the stamina, hike the Path of the Gods. Few trails in the world offer views this dramatic.
For your last day, slow things down with a day trip to either Capri or Ischia. Capri dazzles with its scenery and designer energy; Ischia is larger, quieter, and perfect if you’d rather soak in a thermal spa and relax.
7 Days in Campania
A week gives you space to stretch out and not feel rushed. Spend your first day in Naples, easing into the rhythm of southern Italy museums, espresso breaks, and pizza for dinner. Day two is a full day at Pompeii. Trust me, there’s more than enough to keep you busy. On day three, climb Vesuvius and visit a winery on the way back down; it’s the perfect balance of effort and reward.
Days four and five are dedicated to the Amalfi Coast. Stay overnight if you can, so you can experience the towns once the day-trippers leave. Mix it up between ferry rides, exploring Amalfi and Positano, and maybe another half-day in Ravello. A morning hike on the Path of the Gods can be the highlight of the whole trip.
On day six, pick an island. Capri is the showstopper, but Procida with its pastel houses and slower pace is equally memorable and far less crowded. Ischia, with its hot springs, is the most relaxing choice if you’re running out of steam.
Finally, spend your seventh day heading south to Paestum. Walking among Greek temples that have stood for over two millennia, often with just a handful of other visitors, is the perfect counterbalance to the crowds of Amalfi. Afterward, unwind on the sandy beaches of the Cilento before looping back north. It’s a quieter, more reflective way to end your week in Campania.
How to Avoid Crowds & Travel Sustainably
Campania is popular for a reason, but that means crowds. To make your trip easier, book tickets online for big sites like Pompeii, Caserta, and Capri boat tours. This not only secures your spot but also saves you from long ticket lines in the heat.
On the Amalfi Coast, skip the stress of the road and use ferries instead; they’re faster, safer, and you’ll get stunning sea views along the way. Timing also makes a huge difference: late spring and early autumn are far more enjoyable than the peak summer crush.
And if you want to spread your impact, balance your itinerary with some lesser-visited spots. Add Paestum or Procida alongside Capri and Pompeii. Not only will you find fewer crowds, but you’ll also be supporting communities that don’t live off mass tourism.
Photo & Pinterest Spots
Campania is photogenic everywhere you turn, but a few spots stand out. The classic is the view of Positano, with its pastel houses tumbling down to the sea. Ravello’s Villa Cimbrone terrace looks like it was designed for Instagram, while Capri’s Faraglioni rocks are even more dramatic in person than they look in pictures.
If you’re into hiking, the Path of the Gods has panoramic views that will stop you in your tracks. In Naples, climb up to a rooftop terrace or viewpoint and frame Vesuvius looming over the city. Down south, Paestum’s temples glow beautifully in the golden hour light, while Procida’s harbor, with its candy-colored houses, is irresistible for anyone with a camera.
My best advice: go early in the morning or late in the evening. The light is softer, and you’ll often have popular spots to yourself before the crowds arrive.
Conclusion
Campania is one of those regions that gets under your skin. It can be as fast-paced or as slow as you want it to be. One day you’re jostling through Naples’ noisy alleys with a pizza in hand, the next you’re floating in Capri’s turquoise waters or standing alone among the ancient columns of Paestum.
What I love most is that Campania always surprises you. Just when you think you’ve seen it all the ruins, the coast, the islands it throws you another curveball, like a tiny trattoria serving the best meal of your trip or a sunset that stops you mid-step.
If you’re planning your own trip, I hope these itineraries and tips help you feel less overwhelmed and more excited. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll leave already planning the next time you’ll be back.
