Italy

Best Day Trips from Naples, Italy

Naples is definitely more famous for its pizza than for being a top tourist destination in Italy. But with over two thousand years of history, the city has a lot to offer.
 
Naples also gives you the opportunity to explore amazing natural and historical spots located really close to the city.
 
So on this list, you will see the best day trips from Naples and the best tours, to make the most of your trip to Naples.

Best Day Trips from Naples, Italy

Best Day Trips from Naples - Procida

Procida

If you’re looking for a slightly off-the-beaten-track day trip from Naples, then consider visiting the lovely island of Procida. Procida is the smallest of the three islands in the bay of Naples, and the least-visited by a large margin, but it’s so gorgeous that it surely can’t be long until it hits the tourism big-time.

Procida’s total area is less than 2 square miles so it’s a perfect place to explore on foot. Start at the Marina Grande, where your ferry from Naples will dock; most carry on to Ischia, just 20 minutes further on. Marina Grande is pretty, but the best of Procida is yet to come.

Walk along the waterfront and then head over the hill at the island’s narrowest point to reach Marina di Corricella and the medieval citadel. On the way up to the castle, look over the wall and you’ll see one of the most beautiful views in Europe. The curving bay is lined with fishermen’s houses, painted in a rainbow of pastel colors.

The sea glitters, and brightly-colored boats bob in the harbor, ready to go back out to sea again – Procida is still very much a working island.

If you can tear yourself away from that view, you’ll find there are lots of other things to do in Procida. Exploring the narrow streets is a feast for the eyes, while the medieval citadel (a fortified village) at the island’s highest point is imposing and intriguing. You can also enjoy time on one of the many beaches on Procida.

By Helen of Helen on her Holidays.

Best Day Trips from Naples - Ischia Island
source: Ischia Review

Ischia Island

Ischia, a small yet diverse volcanic island, is located in the shimmering turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.  With its close proximity to Naples, hop on a speedy hydrofoil to arrive at this lovely island in just an hour’s time.
 
The best way to explore this scenic island is to hop on a scooter and sightsee with the wind hitting your face all while breathing in the salty air.  Rent scooters to independently explore the island, or arrange a guided tour that can be customized to best suit your interests.
 
Ischia, although small, packs a diverse range of activities for those lucky to visit.  The island is only 10 km long but provides almost 35 kilometers of stunning coastline dashed with iconic viewpoints, churches, and of course, inviting beaches.
 
By scooter, the main highlights of the island include the stunning Aragonese Castle. Walk over a wide stone bridge and gaze up to see jaw-dropping views of the towering medieval castle.  In addition to the mighty castle, make sure to stop in at least one of the 75 churches on the island.
 
Each church is a serene sanctuary, and most of them boast incredible cliffside vistas.  Keep your eyes open for ancient history in the form of an aqueduct that merges in the modern road.  If you love gardens, stroll the picturesque Giardini la Mortella, a unique botanical garden showcasing rare and diverse plants.
 
The garden provides an incredible backdrop of the sea below.  Indulge in the local wine scene, by stopping in at least one of the vineyards that climb up the rolling hillside. Relax at the quaint fishing village of Sant’Angelo, to see a contrasting side of the island.
 
Nature lovers can explore deeper by tackling a hillside trek.  There is no such thing as a bad view of Ischia.  Take a refreshing dip at one of the many beaches that are sprinkled along the striking coastline.
 
All of the above activities are worthwhile, but the most popular activity of the island is to soak in the natural thermal waters, a benefit of the volcanic activity.  Soak with locals at the Baia di Sorgeto Ischia, a free, natural option, or spend the day relaxing at an official Terme.
 
Termes are found all around the island and fit with any type of budget.  For those looking for a slice of heaven, try the Terme Giardini Poseidon.  Follow along with the circuit or relax and dip into whatever pool feels right. The curative pools run from 28-40 °C and are perfectly placed in garden terraces with ocean views.
 
Appreciate the views of the beach below, or stare up at the mighty hillsides that engulf this tranquil space.  Spend all day dipping in the pools and sea, sitting in the sauna, or receiving a spa treatment.  Ischia’s most beloved treasure is the steamy healing waters of the Termes.
 
Ischia is a treat to explore by land, but for another perspective, hop on a boat.  Boat tours cruise along the coast and stop at various hot spots.
 
This little gem of an island is incredibly diverse and includes highlights from the sea to its cliff-side hilltops.  Scooter, Hike, swim, or boat, there are so many ways to discover all of Ischia’s treasures.  From the medieval castle on a hill, vineyards, gardens, and termes, Ischia is a small slice of paradise in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
 
By Meghan of Packing Up The Pieces.

Best Day Trips from Naples - Herculaneum

Herculaneum

For many people, the Herculaneum Archeological site is more interesting than visit Pompeii ruins. The Roman city of Herculaneum, actual Ercolano, was at the foot of the Volcano Vesuvius that erupted in the 79 AD.

The lava covered the whole territory for 1700 years, creating an airtight seal that has given us a well-preserved building. Inside those structures have been found frescos and mosaics that narrate incredible stories from the past.

Herculaneum is a World Heritage Site by Unesco, together with the Archeological areas of Pompeii and Oplonti. For many, the ruins of Herculaneum are worth a visit more than Pompeii. This is because in Herculaneum you can get more in deep in the history of the ancient Roman Empire. But not only that. From the ruins, you can hike the active Volcano Vesuvius, for an amazing experience.

Another attraction to visit near Herculaneum Ruins is the museum dedicated to the eruption and the Vesuvius. The MAV is the Virtual Archeological Museum, with an interactive area and a 3D video on the eruption that changed the morphology of the area.

Despite Pompeii is a more touristic site, recently Herculaneum has attracted travelers from everywhere and is becoming a popular spot near Naples. This is because in Herculaneum you can get a clear idea of how ancient Romans lived, religious cults, standing houses of rich families, poor spots and common spaces.

You can reach Herculaneum from Naples by Train. From the main station of Naples, Piazza Garibaldi, taking the Vesuviana a Train going through the surrounding towns, you can reach Ercolano Scavi in about 20 minutes.

By Alessia & Toti of Italian Trip Abroad.

 

Pompeii

Sitting at the foot of Mount Vesuvius, the  ruins of Pompeii is one of the most visited ruins in Italy, receiving over 2.5 million visitors annually. This amazing UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit if you want to learn more about the history of Italy.

Pompeii was one of the many cities that were completely destroyed and covered in vulcano ashes in 79 CE due to a violet eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The circustances of the event, preserved the city of Pompeii in a unique way.

Not only buildings, but also the colorful frescos on the walls, are completely preserves. Walking around the city is like walking back in time. While some construction are very damaged, others are almost intact. Villa of the Mysteries is one of the examples, and definitely one of the highlights of your visit. Walking inside this villa, you will find well decorated walls, including one of the biggest frescos in Pompeii, depecting in vibrant colors, what is believed to be the initiation of a woman into the Dionysian Mysteries, a mystery cult, hence the name of the villa.

Among other preserve archeological findings in Pompeii, are its own habitants. As the eruption caught some of its citzens while sleeping, and covered their bodies in layers of fine ashes, that calcified over the centuries, forming a kind of shell around their bodies.

Best Day Trips from Naples - Mt. Vesuvius


Mt. Vesuvius

Are you thinking of adding a bit of adventure to your trip? Then going to the crater of Mount Vesuvius is the activity for you! Even though this is an active volcano and it’s among the most dangerous in the world, going to the summit is perfectly safe.

If there’s any sign of volcanic activity, the National Park where the mount is located gets closed, so there’s no risk.

The only way to get there is by car or bus (don’t even think of climbing from the foot of the mountain –you’ll end up walking in the car road, which is really dangerous and boring). The parking is at about 1000 meters of altitude.

Then you walk for about 2 km, with a bit over 220 meters of elevation gain. The path is clearly marked, and it’s not steep, so even if you’re not too fit, you can get give it a try.

Once you get to the crater, you can do half a loop around it. Even though the volcano is active, you don’t see lava, only a big hole with a bit of steam going out, which means you don’t need any technical equipment.

From the top, the views of the Bay of Naples are stunning, and you get to understand the devastation of Pompeii much better visiting Vesuvius first.

When going up, do remember you’re in a mountain (regardless of how touristy it looks), so wear layers in case the temperature changes and bring water with you.

By Coni of Experiencing the Globe.

 
Best Day Trips from Naples - Sorrento


Sorrento

The beautiful city of Sorrento, Italy, located on the Amalfi Coast, is an easy day trip from Naples. There are several ways to arrive from Naples which is less than 50 km from Sorrento. A ferry is a great option because you get some beautiful views of the Italian Coast as you travel. The train is another viable option.

Once you get to Sorrento, head to the Piazzo Tasso and take the miniature train ride around the city to get acquainted with it. It only lasts about 30 minutes but is a great introduction to Sorrento. Then spend some time walking around the Piazzo.
 
Located near the piazza is one of my favorite restaurants in the world, Tavern Allegra. Head there for lunch or dinner – you will not be disappointed!
 

Take a hike to the Bagni della Regina Giovanna, and if it’s hot, take a dip in the water before climbing around the ruins of the old castle. If you like to walk and want to get outdoors, this is a must-do. 

If you love churches, head to one of the most rustic and quaint ones, the Chioareo di San Francesco. Many weddings are held there so you might be lucky and see one.

 
Sorrento is a worthwhile day trip from Naples but why just do a day trip? I recommend staying a couple of nights in Sorrento and heading to Capri one day and Positano another day. It is the perfect spot to continue exploring one of the most beautiful areas of Italy, the Amalfi Coast.
 
 

 

Best Day Trips from Naples - Capri

Capri

One of the most unique and beautiful day trips from Naples is the island of Capri, located in the Gulf of Naples off the tip of the Sorrentine peninsula. The only way to get to the island is by private boat or by ferry boat from Naples, Sorrento, and in the summer from Positano, Salerno, and Ischia, Capri’s island neighbor. The ferries run throughout the day and arrive loaded with day-tripping tourists.

There are many unique things to do in Capri even in just a day, but spending the night is always a good idea as well, so you can enjoy the quiet of the island as only few see it.
 
High-end designer shopping may be popular on Capri, but the island is surrounded by crystal clear cobalt blue waters making it a great place for water activities.
 
One of the best adventures to have is taking a boat tour to the island’s Blue Grotto, so named because the water inside the grotto seems to glow from underneath. Taking a small boat tour, swimming at one of the beaches, and enjoying a picnic lunch of local delicacies with a bottle of wine are some of the best ways to indulge in Capri.
 
Have an early dinner in the dreamy setting of one of the fine restaurants in and around the Piazza Umberto, also known as La Piazzetta, then take the last ferry back to Naples. Whether a day trip or a few nights, Capri is one island destination that will always call you back.
 
By Lori of Travlinmad.
 

Best Day Trips from Naples - Positano

Positano

Positano is only a short train ride and bus transfer from Naples. The train ride is ~1 hour and the bus ride along the Amalfi Highway takes roughly another hour. Positano is one of the thirteen cities that comprise the Amalfi Coast, and it is arguably one of the most beautiful cities.

With a day in Positano there are a lot of sites to see so if, at all possible, you may want to book a hotel for a night. However, with only one day, visiting one of Positano’s world-renowned beaches is a must. Fornillo is the more trafficked beach and Arienzo, while a bit more challenging to get to is the most tranquil.

In addition to the beautiful beaches in Positano, there is a hiking trail named the Path of the Gods. If you do not mind sweating a little bit the hike is well worth it to overlook Positano and the Tyrrhenian Sea. If you are not interested in hiking, there is a cute shopping area with glass, clothing, and knick-knack shops; as well as restaurants and gelaterias that you can walk around and grab snacks throughout your day.

The Amalfi Coast is known for lemons so you should definitely try some limoncello or lemon gelato while you are visiting. On your way back to Naples a ferry from Positano to Sorrento is a great option to see the beautiful Amalfi Coast from another angle.

By Allie of WOC Travel. 

 

Best Day Trips from Naples - Paestum

Paestum

Italy is not only full of archaeological treasures from the ancient Roman Empire. There are some sites, like Paestum, that date back even further and were built by the Greeks!

The original Greek name for Paestum was Poseidonia, after the god of the seas. Long before the Roman Empire was founded, Greek colonists crossed the sea to colonize this part of Italy. The main buildings of the city that survive today include the outer stone wall, an amphitheater, and three Doric temples dedicated to the gods Athena, Hera, and Neptune.

All of these structures are remarkably well preserved, considering that they have been standing for about 2,500 years! The ancient city has been turned into an archeological park and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There’s a lot to see here, including an on-site museum with some world-class exhibits, so allow yourself a few hours to take it all in. Inside the museum, don’t miss the fresco of a naked man executing an acrobatic dive into a pool of water.

Trains between Napoli Centrale station to Paestum are fairly frequent. Regionale trains offer the best value, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes and costing 6.50 euros each way. The Intercity trains cost almost twice as much and don’t save you much time.

Eating options around Paestum are pretty limited, so you may want to bring takeout from one of the many great restaurants in Naples.

By Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan.

 

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2 Comments

  • Reply
    Kris
    19 de May de 2021 at 17:08

    I wanted to go to Ital last year with my family, but this pandemic destroyed our plans. Thank you for this article! I bought a new Cobalt boat this spring. I think it’s a sign that we definitely should visit this place when this virus is over. I hope it’s going to be soon.

    • Reply
      Isadora
      24 de May de 2021 at 14:02

      That would definitely be a great trip!! I hope this pandemia will ends soon so you can finally enjoy your boat. You should definitely go there, Italy’s coast is a must, specially if you have a boat!

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