The enchanting region of Campania unfurls from its bustling capital, Naples, along dramatic coastlines, into the picturesque countryside and out to the stunning volcanic islands of Capri and Ischia. Naples is a huge, vibrant metropolis steeped in ancient history, where art is found around every corner—from the intricate frescoes in its countless churches to the culinary masterpieces like Neapolitan pizza.
Campania is rich in Roman ruins, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both remarkably preserved by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. These ancient cities are easily accessible from Naples, and adventurous types can also hike to the summit of Vesuvius for breathtaking views into its crater. The region’s rich Roman legacy is further emphasised at the Campanian Amphitheater and Gladiator Museum, whilst the Royal Palace of Caserta, a magnificent 18th-century palace and garden, stands as a testament to the power of the Spanish monarchy in the Kingdom of Naples.
When it comes to cuisine, Campania embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. The region is renowned for its fresh seafood, delectable pastries, succulent San Marzano tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella di bufala. Most famously, the Neapolitan pizza has become an integral part of the city’s identity, and a cultural emblem recognizable worldwide.
Throughout the year, Campania comes alive with various festivals and events that honour its rich religious traditions, culinary heritage, and vibrant arts scene. To fully immerse yourself in this captivating region, allow our 5-day itinerary to guide you through impressive Roman ruins, extraordinary palaces, remarkable art, and unforgettable culinary experiences.
The huge, gritty city curves around the dazzling Bay of Naples in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius. Naples, the cradle of pizza, is big, noisy, and molto Italiano. For history and art enthusiasts, the city is a treasure trove overflowing with captivating architecture and masterpieces at every turn. While there’s a lot to see in just one day, be sure to visit the gothic Cathedral of San Gennaro be and stroll along Spaccanapoli, the ancient heart of the city also known as Decumanus. This lively thoroughfare is lined with charming boutiques, inviting restaurants, and delightful Neapolitan pastry shops, offering an authentic taste of local life.
Walking around Naples' historic centre is a fantastic way to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and rich history. Follow this route to make the most of your time.
Begin a walking tour at Piazza del Plebiscito, a glorious pedestrianised square in the centre of Naples. The “People’s Square” is home to two of the city’s most emblematic monuments: The Royal Palace, built in the 1600s during Spanish rule, and the impressive neo-classical Basilica of Basilica of San Francesco di Paola.
Time permitting, tour of the Versailles-like Royal Palace, a testament to the power of the Kingdom of Naples for 250 years. Explore the lavish royal apartments, the grand throne room, the grand halls, and even a private opera theatre, all reflecting the luxurious lifestyle of the monarchs.
Across the square is the Basilica of San Francisco completed in 1816. Its dome and façade echo that of Rome's Pantheon, while the richly adorned interior features intricate sculptures, frescoed chapels, and an ornate Baroque altarpiece.
Take a break at Naple’s oldest coffee house, Gran Caffé Gambrinus also in Piazza Plebiscito. The café is as artful in its frescoed ceilings as it is with the cases of enticing cakes, pastries, and gelato.
Continue your journey along Via Toledo, a lively tourist-filled street connecting the city’s two main squares, Piazza Plebiscito to Piazza Dante. This bustling route is lined with lots of cafés, museums, churches, and shops- perfect for finding a unique souvenir. Detour into the elegant 19th-century shopping arcade Galleria Umberto I, for its exquisite glass-domed roof.
Spaccanapoli, the "spine of Naples," is a lively historic street that served as the main artery connecting different parts of the city and embodies the spirit of Neapolitan culture. Its name, which translates to "split Naples," runs from the Church of Gesù Nuovo to the bustling Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, changing names along the way. Spaccanapoli has beautiful Baroque churches, opulent palaces, fascinating alleys, and culinary delights, weaving a rich tapestry of Naples' storied past.
Naples’s churches are living museums showcasing the city’s artistic, cultural, and historic heritage. If you only have time to visit one, the Cathedral should be at the top of the list.
The Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary, also called the Duomo, was constructed between 1294 and 1313 and is a captivating fusion of Gothic and Baroque architecture. The interior boasts a vast amount of artwork, colourful frescoes from ceiling to floor, along with Europe’s oldest surviving baptistery with 4th-century mosaics.
At the heart of the Duomo lies the Chapel of San Gennaro, dedicated to Naples’s patron saint. It contains a 14th-century silver bust containing the skull of San Gennaro and vials of his dried blood. Each year, a mystical miracle takes place when the saint's blood liquefies during fervent prayers.
After exploring the cathedral, make a short detour to the unique street of San Gregoria Armeno, renowned for its many artisan shops selling tiny handmade nativity scenes and Pulcinella folk art figurines.
Next, visit San Domenico Maggiore, established in the 13th century as a centre for the Dominican Order. This church is an impressive blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The austere façade opens to a soaring, airy nave filled artistic treasures, including a striking baroque altar. The numerous chapels house exquisite sculptures and paintings depicting saints and biblical narratives. Among its most significant attractions is the tomb of the celebrated theologian and philosopher, Saint Thomas Aquinas, which continues to attract pilgrims from around the world.
The Chapel of Sansevero is shrouded in myth and legend. What began as a 17th-century family chapel constructed on the site of an apparition of the Virgin Mary is now a museum with a treasure trove of some of the world’s most extraordinary Rococo sculptures. The most spectacular piece is the 1753 Veiled Christ, by Neapolitan artist Giuseppe Sanmartino, who transforms a single block of marble into an incredibly detailed, life-size body and head of Christ draped in a thin, transparent veil.
Santa Chiara, a huge Gothic monastic complex, stand proudly in the centre of Naples. Within its vast basilica are notable figures, including Robert of Anjou, the medieval French King of Naples, alongside Bourbon monarchs, national heroes, and revered relics of saints. The most impressive feature is the Rococo Cloister of Clarrises, a unique majolica-tiled cloister added in 1742. This stunning cloister showcases columns, walls, and benches, covered with vibrant majolica tiles bursting with floral and pastoral scenes, creating a lively contrast to the traditional serenity of the space.
Just a short walk away is the Church of Gesù Nuovo, easily recognized by its distinctive façade of diamond-shaped lava stone. From the exterior, it doesn’t look anything like a church because it was originally constructed as a palace for the Sanseverino family in the late 15th century and then transformed into a church in 1584 by the Jesuit order. The stunning gilded high altar stands as a testament of Baroque craftsmanship, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The soaring barrel-vaulted ceilings swirl with gilded frescoes and intricate marblework.
This museum is a natural counterpart to visiting Pompeii as it holds some of the world’s most important archaeological collections. including artefacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, as well as an impressive number of classical sculptures.
A scenic stroll along Naples' Lungomare seaside promenade offers a delightful hour-long walk from Mergellina to the enchanting islet of Megaride, where the stunning Castel dell'Ovo appears to float on the water. As you wander along the slender isthmus, consider stopping for a waterfront meal at one of the many charming restaurants lining the peninsula. Afterward, return along Via Partenope, passing through Piazza Vittoria and onto the lively Riviera di Chiaia, where a vibrant array of osterias, pizzerias, and trattorias brings the streets to life. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of Capri in the distance, with the imposing silhouette of Vesuvius dominating the gulf.
Pompeii, the ancient city buried under ash and mud during the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a captivating glimpse into Roman life. Many buildings have been meticulously restored, showcasing well-preserved mosaics, wall paintings, and frescoes that offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of ancient Romans.
At the heart of Pompeii lies the Forum, a bustling marketplace surrounded by shops, temples, and public baths, as well as the Lupanar, an ancient brothel adorned with explicit frescoes and stone beds. The Stabian Baths is one of the best-preserved examples of bathhouses with different temperature pools. The Temple of Apollo, with its impressive columns, served as the central point of worship.
Pompeii is also home to one of the oldest surviving Roman amphitheatres, able to hold 20,000 spectators for gladiatorial contests. The aptly named Villa of the Mysteries features elaborate wall frescoes depicting enigmatic rituals. Another grand residence, The House of the Faun, was once the home of a wealthy military ruler and is particularly noteworthy for its exquisite mosaic floors, including the Alexander Mosaic.
A visit to the Garden of the Fugitives is a poignant experience as plaster casts of victims were captured in their desperate attempt to escape the eruption. Seeing humans in their final moments is a haunting reminder of the tragedy.
Buses from Pompeii transport you to Mount Vesuvius situated in the otherworldly Parco Nazionale del Vesuvio. Here, you can hike a trail to the volcano's summit and peer into the crater.
Herculaneum, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another of the world’s best-preserved ancient Roman towns and, with fewer crowds and a smaller site, offers a more intimate experience than Pompeii. Unlike its famous neighbour, which was buried under ash, Herculaneum was buried by volcanic mud during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, preserving its houses, shops, public buildings, frescoes, and wooden structures. Some of Herculaneum’s points of interest are the well-preserved streets, villas with intricate mosaics and frescoes, an ancient theatre and bath complexes. Many artefacts from Herculaneum and Pompeii are displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Naples.
Salerno, nestled along the picturesque Gulf of Salerno, boasts charming medieval architecture, including the stunning Gothic Salerno Cathedral, renowned for its bell tower and intricate mosaics. Once a prominent medieval city, Salerno was home to one of Europe’s earliest medical schools, making it a site of historical significance.
In addition to its rich heritage, Salerno's inviting beaches and lively waterfront promenade make it an ideal base for blending cultural exploration with relaxation. Stroll through the meandering medieval streets filled with shops, artisan boutiques, and charming piazzas. Be sure to visit the enchanting medieval street Via dei Mercanti, a highlight of the city's charm.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Lungomare, Salerno’s scenic waterfront promenade where you can find plenty of benches to relax and revel in breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
For art enthusiasts, the Provincial Pinacotheca museum features a collection of artworks ranging from the Renaissance to contemporary pieces, including works by local artists.
Head to the Salerno Cathedral, also known as the Duomo di Salerno, with its imposing bell tower and magnificent bronze doors. Explore this beautiful Romanesque cathedral, known for its magnificent staircases, Arabesque arcades, and the revered crypt of Saint Matthew with 12th-century mosaics.
Near the cathedral, the historic Giardino della Minerva is a terraced botanical garden with a tranquil atmosphere and stunning panoramic views of the coast. The gardens grow medicinal plants used since the Middle Ages by the Salerno’s famous medical school. A small shop sells plants, tea, and refreshments.
Take a rewarding hike up to the massive Arechi Castle on the hilltop above the city for spectacular views along the Amalfi Coast. Built in the 8th century by the Lombards, the castle has undergone renovations over the centuries. Explore the well-preserved walls, towers, battlements, and ancient cisterns.
Caserta is celebrated primarily for its magnificent Palazzo Reale di Caserta (Royal Palace) and extraordinary gardens. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 18th century for the Bourbon kings of Naples, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture which is often compared to the grandeur of Versailles but is monumentally larger. Beyond the palace, Caserta has charming shopping streets and a lively historical centre to be explored. With its rich history, cultural significance, and scenic beauty, Caserta offers a special glimpse into Naples’s royal heritage in the Campanian countryside.
Wander through the charming streets of Caserta, visiting local shops and immersing yourself in the local culture. Start your walking tour in the heart of the town at Italy’s largest square, Piazza Carlo di Borbone, where you can revel in the lovely gardens and mountainous views.
Tour the Royal Palace of Caserta (Reggia di Caserta), a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its magnificent architecture and lavish interiors. Allow plenty of time to explore the colossal palace with its massive library, sumptuous throne room, and extraordinary royal apartments. Be sure to walk through the gardens with stunning fountains, massive sculptures, and a grand staircase leading to terraces of waterfalls.
Make your way to the Cathedral of San Michele Arcangelo, originally founded in 1113, with its impressive blend of Baroque and Neoclassical styles seen in its façade, intricate sculptures, and elegant proportions. The 18th-century updates were designed by architect Luigi Vanvitelli, known for his work on the Royal Palace of Caserta. The campanile (bell tower), completed in 1234, features a remarkable pointed Gothic arch.
The interior of the cathedral dazzles with exquisite frescoes, sculptures, and ornate altars. The high altar features a striking depiction of the Archangel Michael, the church's patron saint. Notably, the cathedral also houses a magnificent pipe organ.
After lunch in Caserta, take a short trip to see the impressive 18th-century Aqueduct of Vanvitelli, which offers great photo opportunities and blends in beautifully to Caserta’s scenic geography.
There’s a reason Capri was once the holiday hideaway for Roman emperors! Today, tourists flock to this enchanting island for its luxury hotels, upscale shopping, and stunning coastline dotted with picturesque coves. Covering just 10 square kilometers in the Bay of Naples, Capri is closely associated with the Amalfi Coast due to its proximity to Sorrento. Frequent ferry services connect Naples and Sorrento to Capri, making it easily accessible.
The island’s main town, also named Capri, boasts charming piazzas and historical landmarks, while the quieter town of Anacapri offers a more tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking vistas.
Capri’s dramatic landscape is a magnet for mega yachts and migratory birds. The beaches are not the traditional swathes of sand, but rather tiny coves and rocky promontories with pay-by-the-day beach clubs.
The island has two marinas. All ferries arrive in Marina Grande on the north shore. Consider taking a boat tour around the island to see its natural beauty from all sides. The smaller Marina Piccola, on the south side of the island, is easily reachable by foot from the town of Capri.
For a leisurely day, relax at one of Capri’s beach clubs near Marina Piccolo, such as Da Luigi ai Faraglioni or La Fontelina. On the western end of Anacapri, watch the sunset at Lido del Faro from the seaside pool or enjoy dinner with stunning sunset views from the restaurant.
If you don't feel like walking for 20 minutes from the port, you can take the funicular to the main city of Capri. This historic town, centred around the bustling Piazzetta, is full of cafés, elegant piazzas, and designer boutiques. Capri offers luxury hotels and villas, many with private shuttle and boat services.
Several walks lead from the crowd-filled Capri Piazzetta out to the wild, wonderful coastline. The Pizzolungo, an easy path hugging the southern coast of the island, offers amazing views of the sea, mainland peninsula, and Faraglioni rocks.
Take a bus to Anacapri, Capri’s quieter second city, which is more laid back and less crowded. Pop into the modest-looking Church of San Michele to see the extraordinary majolica hand-painted tile floor. The charming pastoral scene depicting the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden is extraordinary. Walk a boardwalk around the edge of the floor for a closeup then take the spiral stairs to the organ loft for an overview of the entire floor.
Start your visit by riding the chairlift to the peak of Monte Solaro, the island's highest point, for priceless views over the island and sea. Get tickets at the chairlift station in Piazza della Vittoria in Anacapri, near the ancient ruins.
Villa San Michele, built in 1895 by the Swedish physician and author Axel Munthe, is a masterful modern interpretation of ancient Roman villa architecture. The lush gardens with a wisteria-covered colonnade offer panoramic views over Capri, Naples, and Mount Vesuvius.
To preserve the local bird habitat, Munthe bought the entire mountainside, which includes the Castello di Barbarossa. Take a guided tour of the massive 1,000-year-old walled castle perched at the edge of the island.
Starting from the villa, descend 900 steps down the ancient Phoenician Staircase to reach the Marina Grande. The Scala Fenicia is one of the most breathtaking walks on the island.
The slow boat ride through the glowing Grotta Azzurra is an ethereal experience. A few passengers at a time lay back into the bottom of a rowboat to enter the small mouth of the sea cave. Skippers row through the cavern, singing folk songs which echo off the walls. Sunlight reflects upward through an underwater cavity giving the water a surreal blue glow that illuminates the cavern.
Campania is known for its excellent wines, such as Fiano di Avellino and Greco di Tufo, and robust red wines like Taurasi. The region’s vineyards thrive in the volcanic soil that contributes to the unique flavors of its wines.
The ideal time to visit Naples is during the spring shoulder season (April to June) or early fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, and crowds are thinner. If you prefer warm weather and beach activities, June to August is great, though be prepared for higher tourist traffic and hot temperatures.