Naples, the capital of the Campania region, is the largest and the most visited among the cities of Southern Italy: a beautiful city with thousand of artistic and historic attractions, as well as culinary traditions to be discovered.
If you’ve already thoroughly explored Naples, or if you want to make your holiday a little 'more adventurous, we’d suggest including some exciting day trips into your itinerary?
In fact, Naples can be the starting point for an amazing day trip in one of the many interesting destinations in Southern Italy that otherwise you may not get the opportunity to visit. So here is a list, brought you by ItalyXP, of the 5 (+1) amazing day trips from Naples that will make you want to book more vacation time!
1. Pompeii
The town of Pompeii has ancient origins as those of Rome and what makes it so special are its formidable archaeological excavations. Visiting this amazing place will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a world that has remained intact since 79 AD, when the Mount Vesuvius erupted, destroying city completely.
The amazing factor that made Pompeii such a treasure is that the volcanic materials have preserved the whole city, and today you can actually see with the buildings and the footprints of the inhabitants, beautifully preserved.
The archaeological ruins found at Pompeii are a jewel that does not exist in any other part of the world. It is no coincidence that Pompeii was declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO. If you’re in Naples do not miss a day trip to visit Pompeii.
2. Amalfi Coast
One of the most charming areas in Campania and in all Italy, declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO, its beauty is incomparable. The Amalfi Coast is famous all over the world and attracts thousands of tourists every year: a true symbol of the spectacular nature of Italy.
Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, this coast is a superb example of the Mediterranean landscape, impossible not to be charmed. The high cultural and natural value of this site is due primarily to its size: it encompasses 16 small villages, each one different from the other traditions, customs and history.
The Amalfi Coast is a dream, we can imagine it as a huge veranda which offers a breathtaking view from the houses built on the mountains that overlook immediately with steep slopes and crystal clear blue sea… Do not miss a day trip from Naples!
3. Royal Palace of Caserta
This historical Palace in Caserta was built as the residence of the Bourbons of Naples. Today is considered an architectural jewel protected by UNESCO.
This impressive royal building has nothing to envy to the famous and equally magnificent palace of Versailles: it is said that Charles of Bourbon, enchanted by the Caserta’s landscape, decided to build this palace to give a worthy and glorious symbol of Naples.
With a guided tour you can explore this opulent palace that boasts 1200 rooms, 34 staircases and 1970 windows. Exploring the interior, you can admire the majestic marble staircases, the adorned ceilings, the court theater and the polished decorations made by the best painters of the time. In addition, you can visit the Royal Park of the Palace that stretches for about 120 hectares, with its three kilometers long central avenues, adorned with fountains, waterfalls and monumental statues placed in a harmonious geometry of woods, meadows and flowers.
4. Herculaneum
Along with the ancient city of Pompeii, also Herculaneum was buried under volcanic materials during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. In addition of being a priceless treasure from the archaeological point of view, Herculaneum is also a charming place to visit with a day tour, especially if accompanied by a competent guide.
This ancient Roman village is worth a visit because of its excellent conditions: the first thing you’ll notice are the perfectly intact buildings, the roof and the preserved mosaics and frescoes that embellish the interior. In this vivid atmosphere, you’ll feel like travelling back in time two thousand years. An exciting eXPerience you cannot miss!
5. The islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida
These three beautiful islands are located in the Gulf of Naples and are famous for their beauty. What makes them so unique and compelling is a mix of ancient traditions, picturesque villages and natural landscapes.
The island of Ischia, also called the “Green Island”, is the largest of the three and is particularly loved for its beautiful beaches and the healing thermal waters, which intrigue and attract many tourists. With a guided tour you can visit its historic district, characterized by an ancient castle and the cobbled alleys.
The island of Capri is a pearl in the sea, perhaps the most famous among the islands of the gulf, for its stunning views of the crystal clear sea. The most important centre of the island is Capri town, characterized by homes with terraces and pergolas, picturesque squares and narrow alleys, embellished by geraniums and bougainvillea. Among the attractions of Capri is the impressive and evocative cave in the sea called the Blue Grotto, which can be visited through a guided tour.
Procida is the smallest island in the gulf. In the port area are several good restaurants where you can eat excellent fresh fish. In this area are the fishermen's houses, all painted with different colors to enable fishermen who are at sea to recognize their own house. The beaches of this island are the wildest, less contaminated and therefore much more attractive for those who love uncontaminated nature.
(+1). Mount Vesuvius
Ever heard of the Mount Vesuvius? The most studied and dangerous volcano in Italy, as well as the best known. But rest assured, it is now inactive since 1944, so nothing is stopping you from taking a day trip right here, in one of the most spectacular and special natural area in the world.
Bring with you comfortable clothes and camera, and begin your climb. Do not worry, the path is very simple and accessible to everyone. Also think that as you arrive at the top of the volcano, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the entire city of Naples and the wonderful Gulf.
In Naples, the Vesuvius is also called “the mountain”, and is the symbol of the city: despite its tragic eruption that destroyed Pompeii in 79 AD, the Vesuvius is not seen by the people with fear, but with respect, sense of protection and even affection.
