Begin your Italian adventure with a visit to the Pompeii Ruins, which tells the story of an ancient city that was buried under ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted. The ruins were remarkably preserved and give a sense of what life was like in the city more than 2000 years ago. Afterward, hike up to the crater of Mount Vesuvius for breathtaking views over Campania.
The Amalfi Coast is a spectacular stretch of coastline featuring picturesque towns, sparkling blue waters, and dramatic cliffs. Begin your day by exploring Sorrento, a charming coastal town known for its signature dish, limoncello. Continue to Positano, where you will find a pebbly beach and colorful pastel-colored houses built into the cliff-side. Cap off your day with a visit to Ravello, known for its stunning gardens and historic villas.
Take a ferry from Amalfi Coast to Capri, a picturesque island characterized by its navy blue waters, white houses, and high-end shopping. Relax on the beach, take a dip in the Tyrrhenian Sea, and explore the island by foot to discover hidden gems such as the Blue Grotto and the stunning Faraglioni rock formations.
Experience the showstopping beauty and charming history of Rome, known as the Eternal City. Visit the iconic Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, as well as the visually stunning Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon. A day in Rome is not complete without a traditional Italian dinner and wine.
Rent a car and take a scenic drive to Tuscany to sip on some of the world's tastiest wines. Start at the Chianti wine region, where you can enjoy award-winning wines made from Sangiovese grapes. Stop by the medieval architecture of San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can taste Vernaccia wine, followed by the rolling hills of Montepulciano to visit the famous Cantina Contucci winery.
During your Italian travels, transportation options include various modes such as trains, buses, taxis, and car rentals. Trains are the most affordable option, such as Trenitalia, Italo, or Frecce, and run by major cities in Italy. For a more personalized experience or to explore rural areas, renting a car is the best way. Expect prices around €35-45 per day. In terms of costs and time, finding the right transportation option can help you stick to your budget and maximize your experience.
If you have more time, consider spending an extra day on the Amalfi Coast to see the hidden beaches, hiking trails, and seafood dinners. Alternatively, explore the medieval city of Florence, where you can take in its Renaissance-era art, architecture, and pizza. If you have less time, prioritize two or three destinations that best reflect your cultural interests and try local street food.
Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is the main airport serving the city of Rome, and is about a 40-minute drive from the city center. Naples International Airport (NAP) serves the city of Naples, about 25-30 minutes from the main city. Both airports offer shuttles to the city center and operate numerous flights to and from major cities around the world.