Azure waters or volcanoes: Things to do near Naples

A visit to Pompeii means a haunting glimpse into life during the Roman Empire before it was buried under volcanic ash in 79 AD. The site provides extraordinary insights into ancient daily life, architecture, and society. The eeriness of perfectly preserved streets and homes juxtaposed against the looming Mount Vesuvius adds to its allure, making it a profoundly moving site to visit. Take a guided tour here to make sure you have enough context as to what happened and why the spot is so famous despite the tragedy.

Must-see in Pompeii:

• The Forum: The commercial, religious, and political center of the city.
• The House of the Vettii: A well-preserved aristocratic home with beautiful frescoes.
• The Amphitheater: One of the oldest surviving Roman amphitheaters.
• The Lupanar: An ancient brothel adorned with erotic frescoes.
• The Villa of the Mysteries: Famous for its magnificent frescoes depicting Dionysian mysteries.

Ideal for: History enthusiasts and those intrigued by archaeology.

Distance from Naples: 25 km

Pro-tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the midday heat. Take a guided tour here to make sure you have enough context to what happened and why the spot is so famous despite the tragedy. Historical context is not always evident from the ruins alone.

The romantic backdrop for Only You, Under the Tuscan Sun and Eat, Pray, Love, the Amalfi Coast is as dramatic as the movies it shows up in. With its colorful houses, crystal-clear waters, and lush landscapes, it offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and quaint Mediterranean charm. Towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello provide not only scenic views but also a taste of luxurious coastal living.

Must-see in Amalfi Coast:

• Positano: Iconic colorful terraced houses cascading down to the sea.
• Amalfi Cathedral: A stunning 9th-century cathedral with a striking facade.
• Fiordo di Furore: A picturesque fjord that's one of the most photographed spots.
• Villa Rufolo in Ravello: An ancient brothel adorned with erotic frescoes.
• Path of the Gods: A hiking trail offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Ideal for: Romantic getaways, photographers, and nature lovers.

Distance from Naples: 70 km

Pro-tip: Parking is limited and expensive; consider using public transport like the SITA buses or ferries for a stress-free visit. Better still, book a day trip that includes return transport.

Smaller and less crowded than Pompeii, Herculaneum is where you go for a closer look at life in the region before Mount Vesuvius’s catastrophic eruption. The preservation here is superior due to the volcanic material that covered the city, protecting structures and organic materials such as wood and food.

Must-see in Herculaneum:

• The House of the Mosaic Atrium: Notable for its intricate floor mosaics.
• The House of Neptune and Amphitrite: Home to beautiful wall mosaics.
• The Thermal Baths: Well-preserved Roman public baths.
• The Skeletons of the Boat Houses: Poignant reminders of the eruption’s human toll.
• The House of the Deer: Luxurious residential buildings with extensive sea views.

Ideal for: Those looking for a quieter, more contemplative historical experience.

Distance from Naples: 12 km

Pro-tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle and a large sun umbrella – the site has less shade than Pompeii.

Oh, stunning Capri. With its rugged coastline, stunning cliffs, and azure waters, it has long been a playground for the rich and famous. And you can add yourself to that list with a quick trip to the island. While there isn’t too much to do here, the island's natural beauty, combined with its glamorous atmosphere and chic boutiques, make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of la dolce vita. Ensure you take a book (even if you aren’t reading), sunglasses, and have a coffee at a seaside restaurant. Then take a picture for your Instagram feed to blow up!

Must-see in Capri:

• The Blue Grotto: A sea cave illuminated by a mesmerizing blue light.
• Villa San Michele: An enchanting villa with panoramic views and lush gardens.
• Monte Solaro: The highest point on the island, offering breathtaking vistas.
• Anacapri: A charming town known for its artisan workshops and quieter atmosphere.
• Gardens of Augustus: Beautiful terraced gardens overlooking the sea.

Ideal for: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, and those looking for a slice of a glamorous escape.

Distance from Naples: 40 km

Pro-tip: To avoid long lines at the Blue Grotto, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Towering ominously above the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world. Despite its destructive history, it now offers adventurous travelers the chance to hike to its summit and peer into its crater for awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscape. You will see this when you visit Pompeii or Herculaneum, but it’s worth a visit to the base of the mountain.

Must-see in Mount Vesuvius:

• The Crater: A chance to witness the raw power of nature up close.
• The Observatory: Learn about the volcano's geology and history.
• Panoramic Views: Take in stunning vistas of Naples, Pompeii, and the Bay of Naples.
• The Lava Fields: See the remnants of past eruptions and learn about their impact.
• Flora and Fauna: Discover the unique plants and animals that thrive in the volcanic soil.

Ideal for: Adventurous travelers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.

Distance from Naples: Approximately 12 kilometers to the base of Mount Vesuvius.

Pro-tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as the hike can be steep and strenuous, especially in the summer heat. Kids and older adults might find this a bit difficult.

The Royal Palace of Caserta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most magnificent royal residences in Europe. Built in the 18th century for the Bourbon kings of Naples, it has opulent interiors, vast gardens, and stunning fountains, reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles. Or rather, it was designed specifically to rival it!

Must-see at Caserta Palace:

• The Royal Apartments: Lavishly decorated rooms with ornate furnishings and artwork.
• The Grand Staircase: A grandiose marble staircase that is the centerpiece of the palace.
• The English Garden: Explore landscaped gardens dotted with statues, fountains, and exotic plants.
• The Fountain of Diana and Actaeon: A fountain featuring mythological figures - the nymphs. Look closely for the detailed expressions of confusion, agony, and surprise on Diana, Actaeon, and the nymphs to understand why it’s so popular.
• The Diana and Actaeon Gallery: Admire impressive frescoes depicting scenes from classical mythology.

Ideal for: History lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and fans of royal palaces.

Distance from Naples: 32 km

Pro-tip: Plan to spend a full day exploring the palace and gardens, as there is much to see and experience.

Perched atop cliffs that separate the town from its busy marinas, Sorrento is the ideal place to visit for sweeping water views and bustling streets. Another gateway to the Amalfi Coast, wandering around its narrow alleys lined with cafes and shops is a charm of a different kind.

Must-see in Sorrento:

• Piazza Tasso: The bustling central hub.
• Marina Grande: A fishing village with excellent seafood restaurants.
• Cloister of San Francesco: Peaceful cloisters with a beautiful garden.
• Limoncello Shops: Try the famous lemon liqueur of the region.
• Bagni della Regina Giovanna: A stunning natural pool surrounded by ruins.

Ideal for: Couples, foodies, and culture enthusiasts.

Distance from Naples: 50 km

Pro-tip: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy a picturesque sunset over the bay, followed by dinner at one of the seaside restaurants

Ischia, the largest of the islands in the Bay of Naples, is famous for its thermal spas, sandy beaches, and lush gardens. The island offers a rich history with its ancient castle and picturesque scenery that have inspired artists and writers over the centuries. If you are low on time and can’t make it to all the towns on the island, make sure you do not skip Lacco Ameno - the smallest of Ischia's six towns. With hills on one side and the azure beaches on the other, you’ll want to dive into the shallow waters, even if for a few minutes.

Must-see in Ischia:

• Aragonese Castle: A medieval castle connected to the island by a causeway.
• Giardini La Mortella: Lush gardens with views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
• Thermal Parks: Numerous parks with natural hot springs.
• Spiaggia dei Maronti: The island’s longest beach.
• Ischia Ponte: A charming village with shops and cafes.

Ideal for: Nature lovers, and Couples.

Distance from Naples: 45 km

Pro-tip: Rent a scooter to explore the island's diverse landscapes and hidden coves more freely and intimately.

A sprawling volcanic area to the west of Naples, The Campi Flegrei is known for its dramatic craters, ancient ruins, and thermal springs. This "burning fields" region is steeped in mythology and has been a site of significant geological and archaeological interest since Roman times, offering a unique blend of natural and historical wonders.

Must-see in Campi Flegrei:

• Solfatara Crater: A shallow volcanic crater with fumaroles and mud pools.
• Flavian Amphitheater: The third largest Roman amphitheater in Italy.
• Temple of Serapis: An ancient market place and a testament to geological changes.
• Baia Underwater Archaeological Park: Ruins submerged due to volcanic activity.
• Rione Terra: A fortified historic quarter offering a view into past civilizations.

Ideal for: History buffs, nature enthusiasts, and those who don’t mind a long walk

Distance from Naples: Approximately 15 kilometers.

Pro-tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry water, as exploring the volcanic landscapes and archaeological sites involves a fair amount of walking.

Paestum is a slice of Athens in Italy, thanks to the ancient Greek temples, which are among the best-preserved in the world. Founded in the 7th century BC as part of Magna Graecia, this archaeological site includes stunning examples of Greek architecture and intricate frescoes that offer a peek into ancient religious and cultural practices.

Must-see in Paestum:

• Temple of Hera: One of the oldest and best-preserved Doric temples in existence.
• Temple of Neptune: A large and majestic Greek temple from the 5th century BC.
• Paestum Museum: Home to artifacts and tomb frescoes, including the famous "Tomb of the Diver."
• The city walls and gates: Impressively preserved ancient fortifications.
• Basilica: The oldest temple in Paestum, dating back to the 6th century BC.

Ideal for: Archeology enthusiasts and lovers of ancient history.

Distance from Naples: 100 km

Pro-tip: Plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds, as the site is largely unshaded.

Cilento National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning area of natural beauty that combines mountainous terrain with crystal-clear coastal waters. The park is home to charming medieval villages, ancient ruins, and a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Must-see in Cilento National Park:

• The caves of Pertosa-Auletta: Offering guided tours on underground rivers.
• Certosa di Padula: One of the largest monasteries in Italy, rich in history.
• Velia Archaeological Site: The ruins of an ancient Greek city.
• Capelli di Venere: A beautiful natural waterfall and pool system.

Ideal for: Nature lovers, hikers, and history enthusiasts.

Distance from Naples: 120 km

Pro-tip: When here, make sure to also visit the coastal town of Palinuro: known for its beaches and sea caves.