Journeys: Southern Italy, Naples to Rome

Arrive at any time. Meet your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and fellow travellers in the evening then head out for a delicious foodie tour. Dig into the city’s historic dishes from a classic Napoli Aperitivo to a Neapolitan pizza, then digest with a perfect gelato–buon appetito!

It was noted in a National Geographic article that the Queen of Italy visited Naples in 1889 and as she and her husband were strolling through the city centre, they were taken by the delicious aroma coming from a pizzeria. The chef, Raffaele Esposito, was invited to the palace to cook the dish for the royal family once again. Of the three styles Esposito prepared, Queen Margherita preferred that which emulated the Italian flag; red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and fresh green basil; the modern day margherita pizza.

ACTIVITY: The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.

ACTIVITY: Experience Naples through its iconic cuisine on the Naples Food Tour. Explore historic neighbourhoods like the Spanish Quarter while tasting famous local dishes, including Neapolitan pizza and gelato. Along the way, enjoy an aperitivo and learn about the rich history behind each meal.

Travel to the UNESCO World Site of Pompeii. Join an archaeologist to explore the fascinating ruins of this ancient city preserved in time by ash and volcanic debris following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Later, continue south to the picturesque coastal city of Sorrento. Soak in the captivating views of the Bay of Naples on a leisurely walk. Then, enjoy the rest of the evening exploring on your own.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Walk through the ruins of Pompeii, the city buried under ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79. The forum, the baths and many houses remain well preserved and provide us with a glimpse of what life was like in the first century. Explore with an archaeologist, what is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe and is unparalleled in its preservation of an ancient city. This fascinating event is featured in the National Geographic documentary "Pompeii: Secrets of the Dead” in which forensic experts investigate why Pompeii's people couldn't escape.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Explore Piazza Tasso, the lively central square filled with cafes and shops and walk along Corso Italia which is Sorrento's main street, bustling with vibrant shops and historic buildings. Head to Villa Comunale Park for stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

Spend a free day in Sorrento to do as much or as little as you please. Perhaps explore the nearby island of Capri, boasting beautiful beaches, upscale boutiques, and historic landmarks. Alternatively, visit the volcanic island of Ischia, known for its thermal waters and stunning views of the medieval Aragonese Castle. You may also choose to stay in town and visit the Correale Museum, shop the city’s many boutiques or relax at Piazza Tasso, a square lined with cafés and restaurants.

FREE TIME: FULL DAY Stay in Sorrento and relax or visit the islands of Capri or Ischia.

This morning, set out on a visit to an organic lemon farm and stroll through the fragrant groves. Then, see how limoncello, the refreshing Italian lemon-flavored liqueur, is made. Later, travel by ferry to the town of Positano on the picturesque Amalfi coast and take in the picturesque views of the colourful, cliffside houses gradually receding into the distance. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore on your own then savor a dinner of delicious local dishes.

ACTIVITY: Visit an organic lemon farm and get an in-depth look at one of Italy’s best-loved beverages, limoncello, from a local producer. Take in panoramic views of the sea as you stroll through the fragrant lemon groves and learn about the history of the agriturismo. See how limoncello is made from beginning to end and enjoy a taste of this delicious liqueur. Salute!

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

TRANSPORT: Climb aboard and get your float on.

After an early breakfast, set off on a hike along the famous “Path of the Gods” (weather permitting). Follow the ancient cliff top trail linking isolated farms, villages, churches and monasteries. Named from mythological roots, this trail is said to be the location where the gods rushed to Ulysses from the sirens of Capri. Historically, this path provided a link between some of Amalfi’s small, coastal villages. Enjoy stunning views of bays and coastlines, interesting caves and rock formations, historic ruins and steep cliff sides. Continue to an agriturismo for lunch, which specializes in fresh home grown produce. Meet the family and tour the property—a converted 17th-century monastery, and then enjoy the remainder of the day on your own.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Set off from the small town of Bomerano and follow the path along the Amalfi Coast with sensational views of lemon groves, gorges, deep valleys, woodland, abandoned farmhouses, and the sea below. Stop in the towns of Montepertuso and Positano, where there is more to explore.

Note that hikes are accessible for all travellers, but there can be sections that are more strenuous and challenging due to terrain. Please ensure you have proper closed-toe hiking footwear.

TRANSPORT: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

ACTIVITY: Enjoy lunch at a charming agriturismo that specializes in homegrown, delicious produce. Meet the family and tour the historic property, a converted 17th-century monastery. Explore the farm with one of our hosts, learning about local crops, herbs and vegetables that are the key ingredients in regional cuisine; then sit down to a wonderful meal of local fare surrounded by gardens, open terraces and groves, overlooking the Mediterranean.

Travel north to Rome, Italy's capital city and cultural hub. Settle into the hotel and enjoy some free time before regrouping in the evening for a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Then, take a walking tour where you’ll experience Rome’s iconic landmarks lit up at night. At the Spanish Steps, begin the walk by heading down Via dei Condotti lined with high-end boutiques and bustling cafes. Stroll towards the Trevi Fountain, an iconic masterpiece where you can toss a coin for luck. Continue to the Pantheon walking along charming, narrow streets and bustling squares until you reach Piazza Navona, a grand Baroque square adorned with beautiful fountains, street artists and outdoor cafes–perfect for soaking in the lively Roman ambiance.

TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

ACTIVITY: Starting at the Spanish Steps, a stunning staircase that invites you to take in the vibrant atmosphere and views of Rome, begin your walk by heading down Via dei Condotti, lined with high-end boutiques and bustling cafes. Stroll towards the Trevi Fountain, an iconic masterpiece where you can toss a coin for luck. Continue your journey to the Pantheon, Finally, meander through charming narrow streets and lively squares until you reach Piazza Navona, a grand Baroque square adorned with beautiful fountains, street artists, and outdoor cafes, perfect for soaking in the lively Roman ambiance.

Enjoy a free day to explore Rome on your own. Perhaps visit the Colosseum, the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built, and the Roman Forum, previous home to public meetings, court proceedings, and gladiatorial combats. Alternatively, explore the Vatican, home of St. Peter’s Basilica and Leonardo Michelangelo’s famed masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Or choose to spend time wandering the streets and palazzi, taking time to enjoy a coffee or gelato —and embrace la dolce vita!.

Be sure to watch the National geographic documentary series “Lost Treasures of Rome” for added insight into the history of this ancient city.

FREE TIME: FULL DAY There are endless places to explore in the Eternal City; monuments, churches, fountains, and squares. Shop along Via Veneto, climb the Spanish Steps, or take a walk in Trastevere.

Depart at any time.

ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.