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15 Best Places to Visit in South Italy

Southern Italy is a vast region that contains the provinces of Abruzzo, Apulia, Basilicata, Campania, Calabria, Molise and Sicily – Sardinia is also sometimes included in this region but this island has less in common with the rest of Southern Italy and has differing culture and traditions. This region of Italy has been inhabited by many different civilisations since antiquity including the Greeks, Romans, Etruscans, Arabs, Normans and Byzantines. This diverse inhabitation is mainly due to the regions accessibility from the Adriatic, Ionian and Mediterranean seas.

In terms of tourism, Southern Italy has some absolutely magnificent offerings including beautiful stretches of dramatic coastline, picture perfect beaches, charming coastal islands and a plethora of historic cities and towns. Possibly the best known region is the gorgeous Amalfi coast and La Cinque Terre; this area on the Mediterranean coast is regarded as one of the most beautiful in Europe. Furthermore, cities such as Naples, Lecce and Palermo have some iconic historical sites including the Castle Nuovo, the Basilica di Santa Croce, and Palermo Cathedral that are waiting to be explored. With so much to offer, a trip to Southern Italy can be a true adventure.

Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in South Italy :

Located on the western coast of Southern Italy, Naples is one of the largest and most productive of Italy’s metropolises and accounts for a large percent of the countries economy.

This city has a huge commercial and public port and watching the various container ships and cruise liners entering the docks is certainly impressive.

Furthermore, Naples has a myriad of historical sites such as the domineering Castle Nuovo and the San Gennaro Catacombs.

Moreover, Naples is in close proximity to the legendary ruins of both Pompeii and Herculaneum, and in the shadow of the epic volcano Mount Vesuvius – these three sites are all must see attractions when visiting this region of Italy.

Lecce is lovingly known as the Florence of the South due to its plethora of opulent historical structures.

Located in the far south, this city is the main hub of the region and is also famed for its beautiful light Lecce Stone that has been used to create most of its structures.

Important sites include the beautiful Basilica di Santa Croce, the Cattedrale dell’Assunzione della Virgine, Lecce Castello and the ancient Roman Amphitheatre.

Furthermore, Lecce has several distinct and gorgeous squares such as the Piazza del Duomo and the Piazza Sant’Oronzo.

If historical buildings are not your thing, you can always relax in the sublime Villa Comunale gardens, or see the excavations of the Faggiano Museum.

Bari is a fantastic coastal town located half way up the Adriatic coast of the South of Italy.

This port city has an extensive harbour, some gorgeous beaches, and a delightful historic old town centre.

The old town centre can be found close to the harbour and has a myriad of narrow streets packed full with interesting structures.

Within the old town, you can find the impressive Castello Svevo, the Cathedral of San Sabino, and the Basilica of San Nicola.

Furthermore you can also find several museums here – most notably the Archaeological Museum and the Bari Civic Museum.

In the modern part of Bari, you can find a host of designer establishments and quality restaurants and bars if you prefer to shop and dine.

4. The Amalfi Coast

This particular region of Southern Italy is one of the most beautiful and world renowned.

Stretching from Naples to Salerno, the Amalfi coast offers dramatic scenery, gorgeous towns that hug the mountains, and some interesting historical sites.

This protected region features some idyllic coastal towns such as Amalfi, Erchie, Minori and Positano – these towns have a series of multi-coloured houses that stack up against the hillsides and provide picture perfect photo opportunities.

Furthermore, sites such as Villa Rufolo in Ravello provide unrivalled views across to the Mediterranean Sea.

This whole region is crying out to be explored and a regular train and bus service make it easy to do so.

Pescara is one of the most northern cities in Southern Italy and lies on the western Adriatic Coast of the country.

The city has a large harbour that is a great place to walk through and admire the various fishing and sailing boats.

Furthermore, spanning part of the harbour is the impressive Ponte del Mare which is a suspension bridge that has a split cycling and walking track running its entire length.

Either side of the harbour, Pescara benefits from two long stretches of golden and pristine beaches – these beaches are packed full of amenities and are the perfect places to soak up the sun and relax.

6. Catanzaro

Catanzaro is one of the most prominent cities on the dog leg of Italy and is situated in the mountains but extends down to the coast.

Once of the most impressive landmarks of Catanzaro is the Biodiversity Park – this park features an extensive botanical gardens, a military museum and a children’s playground.

If you head out of town, you can find the gorgeous Cascata Campanaro that is surrounded by hiking trails and some amazing scenery.

Spanning the Fiumaerlla torrent is the Ponte Bisantis – this huge bridge is one of the most important architectural constructs in Southern Italy and is a fine site.

Aside from parks, bridges and natural scenery, Catanzaro also offers a great beach in the form of Catanzaro Lido for those who want to kick it back a notch.

Palermo  is actually the capital of the Island of Sicily and holds an important place in the history of this southern archipelago – it serves as the economic and cultural centre of Sicily and contains some of the islands most important landmarks.

Palermo Cathedral is simply stunning – its differing architectural styles show the various empires and nations that have conquered Sicily.

The Palermo Archaeological Museum expands on the city and islands history and contains some magnificent artefacts and relics dating back as far as the Roman era.

For more history, you can travel underground and visit the Capuchin Abbey and Catacombs – here you can find over 8000 bodies that have been preserved by the monks that live here.

Palermo also features some fantastic markets and many places to find a bargain with the locals.

8. Brindisi

Brindisi is located to the north west of Lecce and is an important coastal town in the region of Southern Italy.

This city has an ancient history and was supposedly founded by a the hero Diomedes.

The first thing you will notice about Brindisi is its amazing port – the two pronged body of water contains a myriad of shipping vessels and some fantastic scenery.

Secondly, if you travel to the northern part of the city you will reach the Isola Sant’Andrea – this small island sits at the opening of the harbour and contains a brilliant castle and fantastic views out to the sea.

Brindisi also features a range of superb historical structures such as the Monument to Italian Sailors and Brindisi Cathedral.

9. Barletta

Further up the eastern coast of Italy you can find the city of Barletta .

This port is a great place to relax and enjoy the beaches and fine Adriatic climate, but also has a host of interesting sites and attractions.

The main point of interest is the immense Castello Svevo – this castle was constructed during the Norman period and has a fantastic design and impressive battlements.

If you enjoy walking, the Lungomare Pietro Mennea and the Lido provide opportunities to stretch your legs and take in the sea breeze.

This area of Barletta is well maintained and geared for tourists and those wishing to enjoy a day at the beach.

Barletta also has several interesting museums and lies in close proximity to Andria and Trani which are two other wonderful destinations.

Foggia is a city and commune located in close proximity to the Parco Nazionale del Gargano.

This commune has been known as the granary of Italy and is surrounded by fertile farmland – it also serves as an important transport hub in this region of Italy.

Foggia has a fantastic array of attractions and one of the most famous is its cathedral; this Baroque structure has a sublime design and features some stunning architecture.

The Piazza Umberto Giordano sits close to the cathedral and has some great shopping opportunities and is surrounded by beautiful buildings.

Aside from the architecture, Foggia also has some magnificent parks such as the Parco Karol Wojtyla and the Parco San Felice.

For something different and off the beaten track, Foggia is certainly a top pick.

Capri is a small island off the western coast of Southern Italy that lies in close proximity to the Amalfi Coast and Naples.

This island is truly beautiful and is a hugely popular destination for day trips.

When you step off of the boat you will be astounded at the fantastic scenery of this mesmerizing place.

Take the funicular to the Piazzetta and perhaps site and enjoy a drink and people watch.

If you prefer to stay active, take a boat trip around the island or explore the fantastic Blue Grotto cave network.

Continuing the theme of adventure, you can hike to Monte Solaro for possibly the best views of the whole of Capri.

Finally, the nightlife in Capri is vibrant and if you enjoy partying, consider stopping here until the early hours of the morning!

12. Catania

Catania is the second largest city on the island of Sicily and can be found on it’s eastern coast.

Combined with the surrounding communes and towns, this metropolis is actually the 7th largest in Italy.

Within the confines of this busy city, you can find a range of historical sites and interesting attractions.

Ursino Castle and the Cathedral of Catania are both beautiful structures that have stood the test of time and provide insight into the history of the city.

Alternatively, if you want to travel further afield, you can see the immense Mount Etna which is active – trips are possible to see the smouldering crater and look down on the island of Sicily from up high.

This island is much larger than Capri which and both sit at either end of the Gulf of Naples.

Ischia is a volcanic island and contains a range of mountains and rocky terrain.

One of the main sites of this island is the impressive Aragonese Castle that sits proudly on its own small island and is connected by a long footbridge over the sea.

Ischia also contains some beautiful villages, an active port and some divine natural gardens.

Finally, the island is also home to a selection of beautiful beaches and hidden bays that are a great place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

14. Parco Nazionale del Gargano

On the eastern Adriatic coast of Southern Italy there lies an immense national park – Gargano.

This park covers over 110,000 hectares and is renowned for its beautiful scenery and dramatic coastlines.

Throughout this region you can find a multitude of hiking trails, mountains, lakes and stretches of rocky cost and cliffs.

Furthermore there is a wave of delightful coastal towns such as Manfredonia and Vieste that have great beaches and some brilliant sites and hospitality.

15. Messina

Messina is one of the most important cities on the Island of Sicily and has an extensive history as a major port in the Mediterranean.

This city is only a short distance across the Straight of Messina to mainland Italy and has regular boats that travel to Reggio Calabria and Villa San Giovanni.

In the city itself there is a magnificent cathedral and bell tower that sit in a picturesque piazza.

Furthermore, the Messina Regional Museum contains a myriad of interesting artefacts and displays about the history of the area including archaeological excavations and artwork from Caravaggio.

In the immediate area, there is also several coastal towns such as Torre Faro that have beaches and a host of restaurants and beach bars.

15 Best Places to Visit in South Italy:

• The Amalfi Coast
• Parco Nazionale del Gargano

10 Best Places To Visit In South Italy

The warm weather is not over yet. There is still time and a good reason to visit South Italy this month!  South Italy has some amazing offerings. The Best Places to visit in South Italy include; beautiful stretches of dramatic coastline, picture perfect beaches, charming coastal islands, and a plethora of historic cities and towns. It was hard to narrow our list down to just 10, but here are the 10 best places to visit in South Italy.

• This article was written to educate about Train Travel and was made by Save A Train The Cheapest Train Tickets Website In The World .

1.  The Amalfi Coast 

This protected region features some idyllic coastal towns such as Amalfi, Erchie, Minori, and Positano – these towns have a series of multi colored houses that stack up against the hillsides and provide picture-perfect photo opportunities.

Furthermore, sites such as Villa Rufolo in Ravello provide unrivaled views across the Mediterranean Sea.

Milan to Genoa Trains

Rome to Genoa Trains

Florence to Genoa Trains

Venice to Genoa Trains

2. Sorrento

Sorrento has both the amenities that tourists find comforting as well as unique and higher-end antiquities for sale in the old town. A ferry leaves from here to the isle of Capri, and it is a great jumping off point for Pompeii. However, Sorrento is also known for its excellent gourmet cuisine , stunning cliff dwellings (though no beaches), and stunning views of Mount Vesuvius.

Bologna to Pompei Trains

Pompei to Nocera Inferiore Trains

Salerno to Nocera Inferiore Trains

Salerno to Mercato San Severino Trains

This medieval town is positioned along the rocky coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. Its ritzy harbor is one of the top hotspots in Italy. If you want to stay here during the summer you may have to book well in advance to secure your chosen hotel as rooms book up FAST. As we are nearing the end of the warm season, you may have some luck with last-minute bookings!

Salerno to Maratea Trains

Bari to Maratea Trains

Naples to Maratea Trains

Potenza to Maratea Trains

Some cool history, Paestum is a town on Italian soil, but it was founded by the ancient Greeks when they were in control of this part of Italy! Then it was known as Poseidonia after the god of the sea.

The Greek architecture alone is worth a visit so be sure to put that into your itinerary in addition to visiting the three well-preserved Greek temples that you have to see. The oldest was built about 550BC (give or take a year) and is the Temple of Hera which is amazing.

Salerno to Paestum Trains

Naples to Paestum Trains

Pompei to Paestum Trains

Potenza to Paestum Trains

5. Best Places To Visit In South Italy: Naples

Naples, or Napoli, depends on what language, is the third largest city in Italy. To be honest, there are some very opposing views on this part of South Italy. To some, it is huge, filthy, crime-ridden, and falling apart, to others it is edgy and atmospheric. Whatever blows your hair back, we guess?  One thing is for sure though. This coastal Southern city has its own personality! Many favorite Italian foods originated in Naples and its surrounding areas such as pizza, and spaghetti. These dishes are taken seriously here and usually feature fresh, locally grown ingredients. Tourist attractions in Naples include a huge medieval castle , Castel Nuovo, as well as the seaside fortress of Castel del Ovo. The city is also next to Vesuvius, the only active volcano on the European continent.

Milan to Naples Trains

Florence to Naples Trains

Venice to Naples Trains

Pisa to Naples Trains

6. Best Places To Visit In South Italy: Alberobello

The town of Alberobello is unique in that it is the best preserved example of Trulli architecture to be found in all of Italy (well, so I was told).

Homes built in the Trulli style are made with conical stone roofs without using mortar (though, I am no builder so do not quote me on that). The oldest homes date from the 14th century and totally stunning , making it one of the must-see and beautiful towns in Southern Italy to visit.

Naples to Monopoli Trains

Bari to Fasano Trains

Taranto to Fasano Trains

7. Best Places To Visit In South Italy: Tropea

Look, I am warning you in advance. The photo opportunities in this place are insane. Be careful that you do not miss out on the real thing! The beautiful ancient town of Tropea is perched on top of some sheer cliffs and across the road from a narrow sandy beach , it is said to have been founded by Hercules himself.

If you are sightseeing , there are two gorgeous churches in Tropea too, the Santa Maria del Isola is a medieval church that was built on an island although years of siltation have resulted in a land bridge forming between the island and the mainland. The other is the cathedral; it has two unexploded bombs dating from WW2 sitting just outside the church door. Locals believed the building was protected by the patron saint so watch your step!

The churches alone make this one of the most beautiful towns in Southern Italy. You will love it!

Vibo Marina to Tropea Trains

Catanzaro to Tropea Trains

Cosenza to Tropea Trains

Lamezia Terme to Tropea Trains

8. Best Places To Visit In South Italy: Capri

Technically a small island, Capri has a gorgeous town and marina that you have to explore. The whole island is rich in history and mythology and one lovely spot you have to visit when in the region.

If you are looking for things to see, The home of Roman Emperor Tiberius (Villa Jovis) is still one of the major spots to see on the island and so is the Blue Grotto. The waterfront cave is only accessible by boat and only when there are favorable tides (so be prepared for cancellations).

Reggio Emilia to Florence Trains

Genoa to Florence Trains

Sestri Levante to Rome Trains

Parma to Florence Trains

9. Best Places To Visit In South Italy: Pompeii and Herculaneum

Pompeii and Herculaneum were two Roman towns and villages that were obliterated when Mount Vesuvius erupted all the way back in 79 AD.

Probably the most famous of the two is the town of Pompeii, which you can now wander around and explore when you are in the area. An awful 3,000 people perished in the town, but the hot ash immortalized the ruins into what it is today. Be warned, it can get pretty busy here, so plan accordingly and remember you might have to queue for a ticket to enter.

Oh, also the nearby town of Herculaneum is smaller and was a wealthier district and gives an example of how the wealthy Romans once lived. Make sure to visit the Herculaneum Archaeological Area if you are a history buff!

Torre Del Greco to Pompei Trains

Naples to Pompei Trains

Salerno to Pompei Trains

Bari to Pompei Trains

10. Best Places To Visit In South Italy: Aeolian Islands

Last on our list of Best Places to visit in South Italy. The Aeolian Islands! They are known as the Hawaii of Italy. It is a string of islands north of Sicily, and it is silly gorgeous. As amazing as it may be, hardly anyone knows about it. But the ones who do keep coming back. Because they know they will have the place all to themselves.

Renting scooters to zip around beautiful black beaches. Sunset aperitivo in Pollara. Boating around the surrounding islands of Stromboli, Panarea, and Lipari. Getting steamy with sulfur water spas in Vulcano. The Greek vibes (no surprise – the islands were named for Aeolus, the god of the winds, by Greek settlers). Salt eroded houses spilling down to the shore. And feeling like you are in on a big secret that you only wanna share with your loved ones!

Naples to Salerno Trains

Naples to Milan Trains

Rome to Naples Trains

Bari to Salerno Trains

Insider tip: travel here between Easter-October and Book in advance if you want to visit in August!

Ready to pack your bags for the South of Italy trip? Then book your train ticket with Save A Train within minutes. No extra fees, no fuss, just fun! 

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• If you want to be kind to your users, you can guide them directly into our search pages. In this link, you will find our most popular train routes – https://www.saveatrain.com/routes_sitemap.xml . Inside you have our links for English landing pages, but we also have https://www.saveatrain.com/fr_routes_sitemap.xml , and you can change the /fr to /de or /it and more languages.

Laura Thomas

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The Best 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Planning a trip to southern Italy? You’ve come to the right place. This is the ultimate 10 days in southern Italy itinerary.

Southern Italy is a captivating region known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. It boasts ancient ruins, picturesque coastal towns, and –best of all — delectable pizza.

Southern Italy offers all the pleasures of la dolce vita you’ll find elsewhere in Italy. But it has a slightly more Latin twist. For centuries, it was shaped by Arab, Greek, and Spanish domination.

At its most basic, southern Italy consists of four regions: Campania, Calabria, Puglia, and Basilicata. There are also the islands of Sardinia and Sicily, worlds apart in their own right.

The south boasts a rich array of art and architecture and sites that you simply won’t find in northern Italy — the whitewashed towns and olive groves of Puglia, the sensual drama of Naples, the stunningly beautiful of Capri, or the ancient eerie allure of Matera.

On top of that, you’ll find ancient Greco-Roman ruins, dazzling Baroque churches and towns, and Byzantine sites.

The food is also insanely good in southern Italy. It’s one of the great joys of visiting. Naples is the birthplace of pizza. In general, there’s a strong emphasis on fresh farm to table ingredients and seafood.

I just spent almost 3 weeks in southern Italy. So, I am ready to hand over the best 10 day southern Italy itinerary with some must know tips.

Overview of 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Here’s a snapshot glance of what you can see with 10 days in southern Italy.

Day 1 : Naples

• Day 2 : Pompeii & Vesuvius or Capri
• Day 3 : Positano
• Day 4 : Amalfi & Ravello
• Day 5 : Matera
• Day 6 : Matera, stop in Martina Franca on the way to Ostuni
• Day 7 : Ostuni
• Day 8 : Polignano a Mare & Monopoli
• Day 9 : Alberobello
• Day 10 : Lecce

More Time ?

If you have more than 10 days in southern Italy, you could spend more time in Naples at the outset or more time in Puglia at the end of your trip.

The towns of Trani, Brindisi, or Bari in Puglia are all well worth visiting. You could also head further south to the sizzling island of Sicily.

If you want to spend a bit more time on the glamorous Amalfi Coast instead, here’s a way to tweak this southern Italy itinerary:

• Day 2 : Pompeii & Vesuvius
• Day 3 : Capri day trip from Naples
• Day 4 : Positano
• Day 5 : Amalfi Town & Ravello
• Day 6 : Matera
• Day 7 : Matera
• Day 8 : Polignano a Mare
• Day 10 : Ostuni & Monopoli

Bases & Tours For A 10 Day Southern Italy Itinerary

For this southern Italy itinerary, I would recommend 4 bases. You could base for 2 days in Naples, 2 days in either Positano or Ravello, 2 days in Matera, and 4 days in Puglia.

For Puglia, I think the best bases are Ostuni, Monopoli, or Polignano al Mare. They are centrally located, have cute centro storicos , and have train stations if you need them. If you are visiting in summer and want a beach, you might opt for Monopoli.

If you don’t moving around a bit more, you could also stay in a trulli in Alberobello for a 1-2 nights just to have the experience.

Puglia is fairly easy to drive around. Just don’t plunge into the centro storico of any city or town. I would pick up a car on the way out of the Amalfi Coast. Before that, I would use trains, private transfers, buses, or ferries to get around.

Best Hotels:

Here are some hotel recommendations, based on hotels I’ve stayed in or checked out myself.

Naples : Eurostars Hotel Excelsior , T he Britannique , G rand Hotel Vesuvio

Positano : Palazzo Mur a ,   L a Sirenuse ,  I l San Pietro ,  H otel Poseidon

Ravello : Hotel Caruso ,  Hotel Villa Cimbrone ,  Palazzo Avino ,  V illa Maria

Matera : Sextantio Le Grotte , Aquatio Cave Hotel & Spa , Palazzo Gattini

Polignano a Mare : Hotel Grotta Palazzese , Giovi Relais

Ostuni : Hotel Relais La Sommita , Paragon 700 , Masseria Le Carrube

Monopoli : Hotel Don Ferrante , Palazzo Indelli

Alberobello : La Mandorla Luxury Trullo , Trullo Essenza-Trulli Anti Charme & Relax , Romantic Trulli

You might also consider staying in a “masseria” in the Puglia region. They are fortified farmhouses that have been transformed into luxury hotels with large rooms.

I stayed at Masseria Il Melograno (near Monopoli) and Masseria San Domenic o (near Ostuni) when I was touring Puglia. San Domenico is one of the world’s best small luxury hotels and was just stunning!

Best Tours:

Here are some of the top tours you will want to book in advance:

• half day tour in Naples with an archaeologist
• Pompeii entrance ticket
• Amalfi Coast boat tour
• Path of the Gods guided walking tour
• Amalfi vespa tour
• Matera tour with cave visit
• Alberobello walking tour with trulli visit
• Ostuni walking tour
• Lecce walking tour

10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

This south of Italy road trip starts in Naples and ends in Lecce.

Naples should be the starting point for any trip through southern Italy. From the airport, you can taxi or book a private transfer to your hotel.

Naples is the region’s capital and a vibrant, sometimes overwhelming, city. Naples lives by its own rules and has no discernible tourist gloss. It can be a a chaotic assault on the senses.

So, you’ll have to take the gritty with the pretty. But, with its long list of marvels, Naples will please those looking for culture, history, and pizza. For every dirty street, there’s a sumptuous Baroque church.

With only a day in the city, you could follow my one day in Naples itinerary .

I advise spending most of your time in the historic center around Spaccanapoli. The old center is teeming with tiny lanes, ancient palazzi, pizzerias, and ornate churches.

Some of the must see churches include Gesu Nuovo, the Cloister of Santa Chiara , Sansevero Chapel, and the Duomo di Napoli .

Sansevero is a stunning over-the-top Baroque chapel filled with exquisite Baroque sculpture. It’s a must see, but always sold out.

Be sure to  b ook a timed entry ticket  online well in advance. Alternatively, if tickets are sold out, you can  book a walking tour  that includes a visit to the chapel.

In Capodimonte and the National Archaeological Museum , Naples has two of Europe’s greatest museums. Art lovers should go to the Capodimonte for its large cache of top rate Renaissance and Baroque art. Those going to Pompeii should get a preview of its treasures at the archaeological museum.

In high season (May to September), I advise  booking a skip the line ticket for the archaeological. museum. I took this  private tour  of the museum with an archaeologist and loved it! 

Day 2: Pompeii & Vesuvius

On day 2, visit Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius from Naples. In Pompeii, explore the well-preserved ancient city buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. 

Walk through homes, baths, theaters, temples, a brothel and the forum. Don’t miss the beautifully restored frescoes in the House of Menander, the House of the Vettii, and the Villa of Mysteries.

Stroll along the historic streets, imagining life in this bustling city over two thousand years ago. 

After Pompeii, head to Mount Vesuvius. The imposing volcano overlooks the Bay of Naples.

Embark on a hike along the trail and enjoy breathtaking views. Reach the crater’s edge and witness the power of nature that once engulfed Pompeii.

Vesuvius is also known for its wineries. And you can book a winery tour and lunch there.

At a minimum, for day 2, you’ll need to book a  P ompeii entrance ticket , a Mt. Vesuvius entrance ticket , and perhaps a  private transfer to Pompeii .

I also advise booking a  3 hour tour to Pompeii with an archaeologis t  to get the complete historical backdrop. You can also book a  f ull day tour to both Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius . 

For more information and must know tips for visiting, here’s my  complete guide to visiting Pompeii .

Day 2 Alternative: Capri

If you’ve already been to Pompeii or just prefer a scenic island, spend day 2 in Capri. You can take the ferry from Naples or book a Capri day trip from Naples .

Capri is one of the most dazzling and seductive islands in the Mediterranean. You’ll be delighted with Capri’s soaring cliffs, shimmering emerald water, whitewashed towns, and historic landmarks.

Capri has two adorable towns, Capri Town and Anacapri. Capri Town is the more glamorous of the duo.

In Capri Town, you can go upscale shopping on Via Cammarelle. Or hike along the coastal trail or up to Villa Jovis.

In Anacapri, you can visit the beautiful Villa San Michele, hike to belvederes or tour the Blue Grotto. Capri is also beautiful as seen from the water, so a boat tour or visit to the Blue Grotto is magical.

Here are some of the tours you might consider in Capri:

• boat tour of Capri
• 6 hour Blue Grotto visit and walking tour
• private boat tour with Blue Grotto
• cooking class with wine pairing
• tour of Capri Town, Anacapri & Blue Grotto

For more information and tips, you can check out my 2 days in Capri itinerary .

Day 3: Positano

One day 3, head to the pretty-in-punk pastel town of Positano. You can book a private transfer from Naples to get there.

Start your day in Positano with a stroll along Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront. 

Take in the vibrantly colored umbrellas and crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. If you’re up for it, take a refreshing dip in the sea or rent a lounge chair and relax on the sun-kissed sands.

If you enjoy hiking for views, you will want to hike the the Path of the Gods. This scenic trail offers panoramic vistas of the Amalfi Coast and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. You can do it yourself and book a private transfer to Bomerano (where the trail starts) or take a guided tour . 

After taking in the vistas from the Path of the Gods, descend back to Positano. Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at one of the local trattorias or cafes.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Admire its beautiful dome and stunning Byzantine-style mosaics. 

Explore the charming alleys and narrow streets of Positano. They’re lined with boutique shops, artisanal craft stores, and local art galleries.

Positano is known for its stylish clothing and beautiful ceramics. Pottery spills out on virtually every nook and cranny of the town. 

The best views of the sea-tumbling houses are from the top of Via Christoforo and Via Pasitea.

As the sun begins to set, find a spot at one of the cliffside bars or restaurants with panoramic terraces. Sip on a refreshing cocktail or sample some ice cold limoncello as you watch the sunset.

For dinner, reserve at a restaurant with cliffside views. Options include La Sponda at La Sirenuse Hotel, La Terrace in Hotel Eden Roc, Maestro’s in Villa Treville, or Il Tridente at Hotel Poseidon.

Day 4: Amalfi & Ravello

On day 4, visit the towns of Amalfi and Ravello. You can take the bus, the ferry, or go on a guided tour from Positano .

Like Positano, Amalfi Town is carved into a cliff and houses seem to tumble down to the sea.

The main attraction in Amalfi is its gorgeous cathedral. It’s a heady blend of Byzantine, Romanesque, and Moorish styles.

The exterior is covered in mosaics and has a loggia with Moorish arches. A dramatic steep staircase leads to the entrance through the Cloister of Paradise.

The cloister is lovely — filled with frescos, statuary and ancient sarcophagi from Paestum. From there, you can wade through the reliquaries and artifacts in the Diocesan Museum and inspect the cathedral itself. For more information, you can check out my complete  guide to Amalfi Cathedral .

If you are interested in ancient trades, you can also check out Amalfi’s Paper Museum. Amalfi was a major producer of handmade paper in medieval times.

The museum is housed in a 13th century paper mill. Guides will demonstrate how paper was made using traditional methods and machinery.

Have a walk through the piazzas and charming back streets of Amalfi. Then, head up to Ravello.

You can hike up via the Valley dei Ferrierre trail or the ever-so-steep Ravello Challenge. Or you can take a bus or taxi.

Ravello is a tiny town. But it’s chock full of high quality ceramic shops. It has a lovely cathedral and two magnificent medieval villas.

Villa Rufolo is in the Piazza del Duomo next to the cathedral. Its main draw is its magnificent gardens. From the Wagner Terrace, you have stunning views of the Amalfi Coast.

Villa Cimbrone is even better. It’s the epitome of romance.

The grounds are filled with crumbling follies, ancient statuary, rose gardens, and wisteria pergolas. Its belvedere, the Terrace of Infinity, offers up the best panoramic vistas on the entire Amalfi Coast.

For more information on these two towns, you can check out my one day in Amalfi Town itinerary and my 2 days in Ravello itinerary .

Day 5: Matera

On day 5, pick up your rental car and head to Matera. Matera is one of Italy’s most alluring sights, thanks to its sassi cave dwellings. It’s the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city at 9,000 years old.

The town looks and feels ancient. It was definitely one of my favorite spots in all of southern Italy.

There are approximately 3,000 cave houses and 150 cave churches. Once the “shame” of Italy, they are now renovated and a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can even stay in a cave hotel!

The best way to see it all is to book a walking tour of the sassi . You can also book a private tour or a food and wine tour .

If you want to do it on your own, the two sassi districts (Barisano and Caveoso) can be accessed from several points in town including from Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Piazza Duomo, and Piazza San Francesco. You’ll see signs. The main drag is Strada Panoramic dei Sassi.

You’ll also want to visit some cave churches. The most impressive is the 10th century Santa Maria d’Idris.

It’s perched on a hill and offers up great views of the sassi . Inside, there are some lovely medieval frescos to admire.

Just south of the church is a cave museum, the Casa-Grotto di Vico Solaria. You can even see the “mangers” for the donkeys and pigs that once lived inside.

You can also check out some of Matera’s other museums: MUSMA (contemporary scupture), Muse Nazioinale Ridola (archaeology finds), or Museo d’Arte Medieval e Moderna (sacred and contemporary art).

In the evening, take a leisurely walk along Via Ridola. It’s a charming street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Stop for dinner at a cozy trattoria and sample the local dishes like orecchiette pasta, lamb, and delicious cheeses. I had delicious meals at Baccanti and Ristorante Burro Salato.

Day 6: Matera To Puglia

Spend your morning in Matera. Begin your day with a visit to the Matera Cathedral. The entrance is in a side street.

Marvel at its impressive architecture, adorned with intricate details and frescoes. There’s even a cave-like nativity scene. And you can climb the bell tower for great views of the gorge.

Explore the adjacent Piazza Duomo and take in the panoramic views of the Sassi districts from the belvedere.

In the afternoon, head out to the town of Martina Franca on the way to Ostuni in the region of Puglia. It’s about a 1:15 drive from Matera to Martina Franca.

The town is built on a hill overlooking olive groves and has an appealing historic center. It’s dominated by the Palazzo Ducale in Piazza Roma. Another main square is the Piazza Plebiscito, home to a beautiful Baroque church.

Have lunch at Trattoria Sant’Anna or Trattoria Pizzeria del Corso. Then, it’s just a 30 minute drive to Ostuni.

Ostuni is one of Puglia’s most appealing hilltop towns, known as the “White City.” It’s a historic settlement that spans three hilltops.

Settle into your accommodation and take an evening stroll through the city.

It’s a maze-like tangle of up and down streets that you’re sure to get lost in. Head to the scenic viewpoints in Ostuni, such as the Belvedere Santa Lucia or the Terrace of Sant’Oronzo, for breathtaking panoramic views.

Have dinner at Taverna della Gelosia or Osteria Ricanatti.

Day 7: Ostuni & Monopoli

In the morning, visit Ostuni’s Spanish-influenced Gothic cathedral. Marvel at its impressive facade and step inside to admire the beautiful interior with its ornate decorations and stunning frescoes.

You could also visit the Archaeological and Civic Museum. It’s a small museum with some interesting artifacts dating back to Paleolithic times. The must see exhibit is the pregnant “mother of the world,” from 28,000 years ago.

But the real joy of Ostuni is just wandering the whitewashed streets. There are flowers at every turn, even a few cats.

I had a delicious lunch at Cielo. it’a an atmospheric place with whitewashed vaulted ceilings.

In the afternoon, drive to the seaside town of Monopoli. It’s a fascinating seaside town with charming narrow streets, a magnificent cathedral, and some great trattorias.

It’s less touristy and has a more lived in feel than towns like Matera or Albrobello. The Monopoli Cathedral is a real must visit. I took shelter in it during a rainstorm, so got to inspect it pretty closely.

In the early evening, take a stroll along the Lungormare. Admire the classic Apulian blue and red fishing boats. There’s an old defensive tower, which you can climb for views.

Enjoy an aperol spritz in Piazza Garibaldi. Then, grab some fresh seafood at one of Monopoli’s many restaurants. I enjoyed La Locanda Sul Porto and Gaia Osteria Popolare.

READ : One Day In Monopoli Itinerary

Day 8: Polignano a Mare

On day 8, head to Polignano a Mare, a timeless beauty. It’s a picture perfect whitewashed village that seems made entirely of limestone.

The town’s winding streets are lined with flowering plants. The town offers incredible views over the Adriatic Sea.

Via Roma is the main drag. It’s chic and chock full of chic shops, eateries, and gelato shops.

But the back streets are adorable too. You’ll see poems written on some of the walls and steps.

Polignano is best known for the inlets and coves carved into its shoreline.

The most famous of these is right in the center of town, the Lama Monachile Beach. The Grotto Palazzese is a tiny masterpiece that’s home to a cave restaurant and 5 star hotel.

Taking a stroll along the Lungomare Domenico Modugno or the Longomare Cristofero Columbo makes for good viewing. The first one is where you’ll find the famous statue of Volare, the singer songwriter and a Polignano native.

You might consider taking a boat cruise through the coves, a boat cave tour , or a street food tour while in Polignano.

I was in Polignano for a few days so I was able to sample some of its fabulous restaurants. I had fine meals at Osteria dei Mulini, Restaurant Antiche Mura, and Specchie Sant’Oronzo. Even the street food cafe, at Olio su Pane, was delicious.

READ : One Day In Polignano a Mare Itinerary

Day 9: Alberobello

Alberobello is an incredibly unique and picturesque town in Puglia, known for its iconic trulli houses. Trulli are round stone buildings with conical gray slate roofs. Alberobello has over 1500 of them.

If you can ignore the crowds, the town has a real fairytale vibe, almost like a fantasy film set. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before.

The trulli are spread out along the eight streets of the Rione Monte. Some of them are adorned with astrological or astronomical symbols on the roofs.

The best way to see them is from one of the town’s many belvederes. There are especially good views from Belvedere Santa Lucia and from the belvedere on the left of the Piazza del Popolo. You could also book a guided walking tour of the trulli.

Afterward, make your way though the labyrinth of streets of Alberobello. You’ll come across the best known trulli — Trullo Sovrano and the Trullo Siamese.

Be sure to head to the Rione Ain Piccola. It’s a more authentic and less trafficked area with nearly 400 trulli .

Alberobello is also a fun place to take a guided food tour , an e-bike tour with foccacia tasting , or a cooking class .

I had the best focaccia I’ve ever tasted at Enoteca Regionale (made with burnt flour) and learned how to make mozzarella at Mimmo’s trullo.

If you want, you could spend half of the day 9 in Alberobello and half of the day in the cute neighboring town of Locorotondo.

The unique circular town boasts narrow streets, whitewashed houses with sloped roofs called cumerse , and intricate balconies adorned with colorful flowers.

Be sure to see Palazzo Morelli, with its eye catching carved portal. The main church is San Giorgio.

It’s a beautiful Baroque church with an elegant facade and a stunning rose window. Step inside to admire the ornate interior, with its intricate altars and Neapolitan frescoes.

In the Marziolla district, you will find another fascinating collection of trulli .

Day 10: Lecce

Polish off your 10 days in southern Italy with a visit to lavish Lecce. It’s Baroque jewel known as “the Florence of the South.”

It’s also called the “City of Churches” and the “City of Gardens.” To visit the city properly, you can book an architecture tour , zip around on a rickshaw tour , or go on a street food tour .

Lecce is a maze of narrow streets. Its nerve center is Piazza del Duomo.

The square is a stunning architectural ensemble with the magnificent Lecce Cathedral, Palazzo Vescovile (Bishop’s Palace), and the Seminary (which has a beautiful cloister and bell tower). It’s especially lovely in the evening when its lit by floodlights.

The Duomo has an extravagant, highly chiseled facade. It was built by the principal architect of the city’s Baroque transformation, Giuseppe Zimbalo.

If you proceed down Via Vitttorio Emanuele II, you will arrive at Santa Maria del Rosario. It’s Zimbalo’s last and finest work.

The other main square is Piazza Sant’Oronzo to the east. In the southern part of the square, you’ll find the sunken remains of a Roman amphitheater. it was built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century.

At the square’s heart is the Colonna di Sant’Oronzo. You’ll also see two other gems, the 16th century Sedile and the Church of San Marco.

From this square walk north on Via Umberto to see the magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce. It’s the apotheosis of Lecce’s frenzied Baroque architectural style.

Santa Croce showcases intricate carvings, ornate decorations, and a facade adorned with mythical creatures, dragons, angels, and other symbolic motifs. It is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Italy .

In the early evenings, join the crowds at Piazza Sant’Oronzo for an apertivo . Try a glass of Salice Salentino , a renowned and robust local wine, at Caffe Alvino. There are also some good win bars on Via Umberto.

The city brims with rustic restaurants serving up hearty southern Italian food. Check out Crianza or la Vecchia Osteria da Totu.

More Than 10 Days in Southern Italy?

If you have more than 10 days, you have several options.

If you are a city person, I would spend more time in Naples at the outset of your trip. The city takes awhile to get under your skin and there are just so many attractions.

You could also spend more time eating your way through Puglia. The towns of Molfetta, Trani, Brindisi, and Otranto are all well worth visiting.

Another idea is to head further south to Sicily. To do this, you could fly out of Bari Airport or Brindisi Airport to Palermo or Catania.

For ideas on what to do in Sicily, you can check out my blog post on five ways to spend one week in Sicily . I also have itineraries for Syracuse , Trapani , Catania , Taormina , and Palermo .

If you are feeling a bit bushed after 10 days in southern Italy trip, perhaps you just want to lounge on a beach in Cefalu or Taormina.

Alternatively, ruin lusters can explore the island’s fine Greco-Roman ruins in Segesta , the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento , Syracuse Archaeological Park , or the Villa Romano del Casale .

Tips For A 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Here are some other must know tips for spending 10 days in southern Italy.

1. How To Get To Southern Italy

You’ll want to fly into Naples. It has its own international airport, NAP. It’s also known as Capodichino Airport. 

From the airport, you can take a taxi or  book a private transfer  to your hotel. You can also book a  private transfer from Rome , if you fly in there.

Naples also has a major train station that’s well connected to other cities, Napoli Centrale. 

2. When To Visit Southern Italy

The general rule to to avoid July and August. These are the hottest, most expensive, and busiest months.

This is especially true on the island of Capri and in the Amalfi Coast. I was also told Matera can get up to 120 degrees in summer.

Late April/May is a delightful time to visit. Everything is lush, festooned with flowers, and landscapes look like fresco paintings.

The weather stays good until about late October. So, a fall visit is also a good choice.

3. How To Get Around Southern Italy

For the part of your itinerary centered on Naples and the Amalfi Coast, I wouldn’t get a car. I would use the extensive network of buses, trains, and some private transfers.

The road along the Amalfi Coast offers one of Italy’s most famous drives. But the road is difficult, with hairpin turns and heavy traffic. Plus, rental rates are high. I personally wouldn’t want to drive there.

In general, however, the train system in the south isn’t as good as the north. So, once you depart the Amalfi Coast, I think it makes sense to pick up a rental car for the rest of your trip.

Driving in Puglia is pretty straightforward. The roads are reasonably well maintained, except for small rural roads where you will find potholes. And the traffic is less heavy than more popular places like Tuscany.

4. What To Eat In Southern Italy

Southern Italy is a foodie paradise. The region boasts fresh ingredients, sun-ripened produce, bold flavors, and magical herbs.

Naples is the birthplace of pizza. As Julia Roberts said in the movie Eat, Pray, Love , it’s easy to have a “relationship” with it.

Neapolitan pizza has a thin, soft, and slightly chewy crust. The sauce is made from the delicious crushed San Marzano tomatoes.

In the Amalfi Coast, everything is made with lemons — limoncello liqueur, lemon cakes, lemon delight, lemon pasta, and lemon flavored pastries.

The pasta specialities are scialatielli and ravioli caprese . Scialatielli is a type of homemade pasta that is typically served with a flavorful seafood sauce.

You’ll also find an abundance of fish and seafood — mussels, clams, tuna, octopus, shrimp, etc.

In Puglia, the burrata and mozzarella is impossibly smooth and creamy. It’s usually served with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.

You’ll also find some of the freshest vegetables I’ve ever tasted. The zucchini, artichokes, and eggplant are all delicious.

The homemade pasta is to die for. In Puglia, the specialty is orecchiette . It’s a small ear-shaped pasta. It is often served with a variety of sauces, such as broccoli rabe, cherry tomatoes, and anchovies.

Another thing to try is focaccia barese . It’s a delicious variation of the classic Italian flatbread. The bread is generously topped with cherry tomatoes, olives, oregano, and olive oil, creating a burst of flavors in every bite.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 days in southern Italy itinerary. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources.

• 3 day itinerary for Rome
• 5 day itinerary for Rome
• 3 day intinerary for Naples
• 1 day itinerary for Vatican City
• 3 day itinerary for Florence
• 2 day itinerary for Venice
• 1 day itinerary for Milan
• 1 day itinerary for Siena
• One week in Umbria
• 10 days in Italy itinerary
• 10 day itinerary for Tuscany
• 12 ways to spend 1 week in Italy
• 2 weeks in Sicily itinerary

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Last Updated on June 20, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Unforgettable Southern Italy Itinerary: Your Ultimate Guide

• Post author: angelo
• Post published: November 27, 2023
• Post category: Italy

This comprehensive Southern Italy itinerary will take you through some of the most popular and hidden gems of the region. Explore the stunning Amalfi Coast , visit the iconic sites of Pompeii and Capri , and discover the charm of smaller towns like Sorrento and Matera . This ultimate guide will provide all the information you need to plan your unforgettable trip to Southern Italy.

Key Takeaways:

• Explore the breathtaking Amalfi Coast towns and enjoy the stunning coastal views
• Visit the well-preserved ruins of Pompeii and learn about its fascinating history
• Discover the enchanting island of Capri and its crystal-clear waters
• Immerse yourself in the unique charm of Matera and its cave dwellings
• Explore the beautiful region of Puglia and its white-washed towns

Places You Will Visit on This Southern Italy Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Southern Italy and explore a range of incredible destinations. From the breathtaking Amalfi Coast towns to the historic ruins of Pompeii and the picturesque towns of Sorrento and Matera, this itinerary will take you to some of the must-visit destinations in Southern Italy .

Start your adventure by visiting the stunning Amalfi Coast , known for its dramatic cliffs, colorful coastal towns, and crystal-clear waters. Explore the charming towns of Positano , Amalfi , and Ravello , each offering their own unique charm and beauty. Wander through the narrow streets, visit historical sites, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

“The Amalfi Coast is a true gem of Southern Italy, with its picturesque towns and stunning coastline. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Southern Italy.”

Next, immerse yourself in the ancient history of Pompeii. Walk through the well-preserved ruins of this Roman city and learn about its fascinating past. Discover the ruins of temples, villas, and amphitheaters, and get a glimpse into what life was like during the Roman era.

Continue your journey in the charming town of Sorrento , located on the Amalfi Coast . Indulge in the delicious cuisine, visit local attractions like the Cathedral of Sorrento and the Correale Museum, and take in the stunning views of the Bay of Naples . Sorrento is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area and experiencing the beauty of Southern Italy.

Table: Must-Visit Destinations in Southern Italy

From the well-known destinations to the hidden gems, this itinerary promises to showcase the best of Southern Italy, providing you with a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Day 1: Getting to Sorrento & the Amalfi Coast

Kickstart your Southern Italy itinerary by flying into either Rome or Naples, two major international airports. From there, make your way to the charming town of Sorrento on the Amalfi Coast.

There are several transportation options available for traveling from Rome or Naples to Sorrento. If you prefer a hassle-free journey, opt for a private transfer or a pre-booked taxi. Alternatively, you can take a train from Rome or Naples to Sorrento, enjoying scenic views along the way. The train journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Naples and around 3 hours from Rome.

Once you arrive in Sorrento , spend the day exploring the town and settling into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets, lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy the stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, which dominates the skyline. Visit the historic Sorrento Cathedral and the beautiful Villa Comunale gardens, offering panoramic views of the coast. Indulge in the local cuisine, including the famous limoncello, a lemon liqueur made from the region’s abundant citrus fruits.

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot to savor a delicious dinner featuring fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and local specialties. Sorrento is known for its culinary delights, and you won’t be disappointed with the array of flavors and aromas that await you.

Top Attractions in Sorrento

• Historic Sorrento Cathedral
• Villa Comunale gardens
• Piazza Tasso
• Marina Grande
• Corso Italia

Day 2: Exploring Pompeii and Sorrento

On the second day of your Southern Italy itinerary , you will have the opportunity to delve into the rich history of Pompeii and soak up the charming atmosphere of Sorrento. Start your day by embarking on a day trip to the ancient city of Pompeii, which was buried under ash and preserved for centuries after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Explore the well-preserved ruins of this Roman city, stroll along its ancient streets, and marvel at the fascinating remnants of daily life from thousands of years ago. The archaeological site of Pompeii offers a captivating glimpse into the past and provides a unique and memorable experience.

After immersing yourself in the history of Pompeii, return to Sorrento and continue your exploration of this beautiful town. Get lost in the narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, browse the delightful shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, and stop by one of the charming cafes to savor a traditional Italian espresso. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the famous Limoncello, a lemon liqueur made from the delicious lemons that grow abundantly in the region. As you wander through Sorrento, take in the stunning views of the Bay of Naples and the picturesque coastline, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Sorrento is also known for its delectable cuisine, so be sure to indulge in some of the local delicacies. Treat yourself to a delicious plate of fresh pasta or enjoy a mouthwatering pizza made with locally sourced ingredients. As the day comes to an end, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, known as Marina Grande, and watch the sun set over the sea, leaving behind a breathtaking panorama of colors.

Table: Highlights of Day 2

Day 3: discovering the amalfi coast.

On day three of your Southern Italy vacation , you will have the opportunity to explore the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. This iconic region is known for its stunning coastal landscapes, picturesque towns, and vibrant atmosphere. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty and charm of the Amalfi Coast as you visit the must-see towns of Positano , Amalfi , and Ravello .

Table: Must-Visit Towns on the Amalfi Coast

Start your day by visiting Positano, where you can soak in the stunning views and explore the colorful streets lined with boutique shops and cafes. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach or relax on the sun-kissed shores. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its stunning dome and ancient Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary.

Next, make your way to Amalfi, a town steeped in history and charm. Explore the historic center, visit the impressive Amalfi Cathedral, and wander through the labyrinthine streets adorned with local craftsmanship. Take a moment to savor a refreshing gelato or enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants.

End your day in Ravello, a hidden gem perched high above the coast. Visit the beautiful Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, famous for their stunning gardens and breathtaking views. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the town’s quaint streets and discover the enchanting atmosphere that has inspired countless artists and writers over the years.

Day 4: Exploring Capri

On the fourth day of your Southern Italy itinerary , take a ferry ride to the enchanting island of Capri . Renowned for its natural beauty and glamorous atmosphere, Capri is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Begin your day by visiting the iconic Blue Grotto , a sea cave known for its mesmerizing blue reflections. Take a boat tour to explore this magical place and marvel at the stunning colors of the water.

Afterward, explore the charming town of Capri , characterized by its elegant boutiques, designer shops, and picturesque cafés. Stroll through the narrow streets lined with colorful flowers and whitewashed buildings, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a chairlift ride to the top of Mount Solaro , the highest point on the island, for panoramic views that will take your breath away.

For a taste of Italian luxury, indulge in a leisurely lunch at one of Capri’s waterfront restaurants, where you can savor fresh seafood and local specialties. Afterward, continue your exploration by visiting the Gardens of Augustus , a peaceful oasis with lush vegetation and stunning views of the famous Faraglioni rock formations.

End your day by relaxing on one of Capri’s beautiful beaches, such as Marina Piccola or Faro di Punta Carena, where you can soak up the sun and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. As the sun sets, enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the island’s acclaimed restaurants and savor the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine.

Day 5: Immersing in Matera and Alberobello

On day five of your Southern Italy itinerary , prepare to explore the unique towns of Matera and Alberobello. These destinations offer a glimpse into the rich history and architectural wonders of the region, making them must-visit attractions for any traveler.

Matera: Cave Dwellings and Ancient Architecture

Start your day by driving to Matera, a town famous for its cave dwellings and ancient architecture. Matera’s Sassi di Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze-like complex of cave houses, churches, and troglodyte dwellings carved into the rock. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of this ancient settlement and explore the narrow streets that wind through the Sassi. You’ll be captivated by the unique atmosphere and stunning views of this remarkable town.

Alberobello: The Trulli Houses

After immersing yourself in the history of Matera, continue your journey to Alberobello , a town renowned for its Trulli houses. These traditional Apulian dwellings are characterized by their conical roofs and stone construction, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. Wander through the narrow streets lined with these unique buildings, visit the Trulli houses turned into museums, and shop for local crafts and souvenirs. The picturesque charm of Alberobello will transport you to another time.

Both Matera and Alberobello offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Southern Italy . From the ancient cave dwellings of Matera to the whimsical Trulli houses of Alberobello, these towns showcase the unique architectural wonders of the region. Immerse yourself in the history and charm of Matera and Alberobello, and create lasting memories of your Southern Italy adventure.

Day 6-10: Exploring Puglia and Beyond

As you continue your Southern Italy itinerary , days 6-10 are dedicated to exploring the stunning region of Puglia and beyond. This part of the itinerary allows you to immerse yourself in the unique culture and breathtaking landscapes of this lesser-known region. With its charming towns, picturesque coastlines, and rich historical heritage, Puglia offers a truly authentic Italian experience.

Table: Highlights of Puglia

During your time in Puglia , make sure to take in the stunning coastal landscapes, enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, and savor the delicious local cuisine. Puglia is known for its fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and locally produced olive oil, so be sure to indulge in these gastronomic delights.

If you have extra time, consider venturing even further and explore other hidden gems in the region, such as the beautiful towns of Matera and Alberobello, which were covered earlier in the itinerary. Each destination in Puglia and beyond offers its own unique charm and beauty, providing a truly unforgettable experience.

Best Time to Visit Southern Italy

When planning your Southern Italy Itinerary , it’s important to consider the best time to visit in order to make the most of your experience. The region’s Mediterranean climate means that the weather can vary throughout the year, so choosing the right time to go can greatly enhance your trip. The best time to visit Southern Italy is generally in May, June, September, and October, when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are not at peak levels. During these months, you can expect warm temperatures, clear skies, and mild sea breezes, creating idyllic conditions for exploring the stunning coastline and charming towns.

Visiting Southern Italy in the summer months of July and August is also an option, but it’s worth noting that this is the peak tourist season. The Amalfi Coast , in particular, can be crowded with tourists during this time, and prices for accommodations and rental cars may be higher. However, if you don’t mind the crowds and higher prices, you’ll still be able to enjoy the region’s beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

For those looking to avoid the summer crowds, late fall through early spring can be a great time to visit Southern Italy . The weather during this time is cooler, but still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. However, it’s worth noting that some hotels and restaurants may be closed or operating on reduced hours during the offseason, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

Getting Around Southern Italy

Exploring the beautiful region of Southern Italy, especially Puglia and Basilicata , is best done by renting a car. Public transportation options are limited in this part of Italy , and having a car gives you the freedom and flexibility to visit smaller towns and less accessible destinations. However, it is important to note that driving along the Amalfi Coast can be challenging. The narrow, winding roads and heavy traffic can make for a stressful experience. It is advised to use alternate modes of transportation, such as ferries and buses, when exploring this area. This way, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views without the hassle of driving.

In Puglia and Basilicata, having a car is essential for discovering the hidden gems of the region. The picturesque towns, stunning countryside, and off-the-beaten-path attractions are best explored at your own pace. Renting a car will allow you to venture off the main tourist routes and discover the authentic charm and beauty of Southern Italy. Plus, with a car, you can easily stop at roadside trattorias and vineyards to indulge in the delicious local cuisine and exquisite wines that the region is known for.

While driving is the preferred mode of transportation in Southern Italy, there are other options available for getting around. Ferries are a popular way to travel between the mainland and the islands, such as Capri, and can provide a scenic and relaxing journey. Buses also connect many of the major towns and cities, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel. However, it is important to note that bus schedules may not always be reliable, and it may be necessary to be flexible with your plans.

In summary, renting a car is the best way to explore Southern Italy, especially Puglia and Basilicata. It provides the freedom to visit smaller towns and less accessible destinations at your own pace. However, when driving along the Amalfi Coast, it is advisable to use alternate modes of transportation due to the challenging road conditions. Whether you choose to rent a car, take a ferry, or use buses, Southern Italy awaits with its captivating landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality.

A trip to Southern Italy is a truly unforgettable experience, filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. This ultimate guide has provided you with a comprehensive itinerary to help you make the most of your trip. From the Amalfi Coast to Matera and Puglia , each destination offers its own unique charm and beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a nature enthusiast, Southern Italy has something for everyone.

So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through this captivating region. Explore the picturesque towns, delve into ancient ruins, and indulge in the flavors of local cuisine. Whether you choose to follow this itinerary or tailor your own, make sure to prioritize the must-visit destinations and hidden gems of Southern Italy .

With its breathtaking scenery, warm Mediterranean climate, and friendly locals, Southern Italy is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation. So make Southern Italy your next travel adventure and create lifelong memories in one of the most beautiful regions in the world.

What are the must-visit destinations in Southern Italy?

On this itinerary, you will visit the stunning Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Capri, Sorrento, Matera, and Alberobello. You will also explore Puglia, including the towns of Polignano a Mare, Lecce, and Ostuni.

What is the best time to visit Southern Italy?

The best time to visit is in May, June, September, and October when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are not at peak levels. July and August can be crowded with tourists, and prices can be higher. Late fall through early spring can also be a good time to visit, although some hotels and restaurants may be closed.

How should I get around Southern Italy?

Renting a car is the best way to explore Southern Italy, especially in Puglia and Basilicata. Public transportation is limited in this region, but driving on the Amalfi Coast can be challenging. Alternate modes of transportation, such as ferries and buses, are recommended for exploring this area.

What can I expect during my trip to Southern Italy?

A trip to Southern Italy is a truly unforgettable experience filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. Each destination offers its own unique charm and beauty, whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a nature enthusiast.

How many days should I plan for this itinerary?

This itinerary spans a total of 10 days. However, you have the flexibility to adjust the duration based on your preferences and available time.

Are there any specific travel tips for Southern Italy?

It is recommended to avoid peak tourist season in July and August to avoid crowds and higher prices. Additionally, be prepared for challenging driving conditions on the Amalfi Coast and consider using alternate modes of transportation in that area.

Will I need to make hotel reservations in advance?

It is advisable to make hotel reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist season. This will ensure that you have a place to stay in your desired locations and avoid any last-minute availability issues.

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Southern Italy: Discover the Best 33 Places To Visit

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The Best Places to Visit in the South of Italy

One of the oldest inhabited regions in Europe, Southern Italy is awash with archaeological sites, beautiful small towns, picture perfect beaches, and local culture.

Known for its warm Mediterranean climate, diverse landscapes, history influenced by the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans, and its delicious cuisine, Southern Italy is rapidly becoming one of Europe’s most popular destinations.

One of our favorite places in Europe to visit, we share the very best Southern Italy destinations, from heel to toe and everything in between, including the well-known big hitters and a few lesser-known hidden gems.

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Where is Southern Italy?

Southern Italy, also known as Meridione or Mezzogiorno in Italian, is a macroregion of Italy made up of the regions of Abruzzo, Apulia (Puglia), Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, and Sicily.

The regions of Southern Italy form the lower part of the Italian ‘boot’, including the ankle which is Campania, the toe of Calabria, the arch of Basilicata, and Puglia which makes up the heel. Molise is located to the north of Puglia and Abruzzo is further north still.

The island of Sicily is separated from Calabria by the narrow Strait of Messina, and the heel and toe are parted by the Gulf of Taranto.

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Is this your first time visiting Italy? Get all the information you need in our Italy Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

The most northerly and largest region in Southern Italy, Abruzzo has a diverse landscape made up of an Adriatic coastline and the Apennine Mountains. National parks and nature reserves cover much of its rugged and forested interior and there are a number of hilltop towns dating to the medieval and Renaissance periods.

Civitella del Tronto

Civitella del Tronto, situated in the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park of Italy, is a remarkable cliff-top town that boasts the largest fortress in Italy and the second largest in Europe.

The village is considered one of Italy’s most beautiful, with its striking fortress dominating the hillside above the charming village below, surrounded by high mountains.

The fortress, built in the 16th century and transformed by Philip II of Habsburg, King of Spain, was the last to fall to the armies of Emanuele I. Although largely destroyed by the locals, a major renovation project took place between 1975 and 1985, and the fortress is now open to the public.

After admiring the fortress and its views, visitors can explore the gorgeous small town with its stone buildings dating from medieval and Renaissance times, narrow stone-paved roads, and interesting architectural details on the houses.

In addition to its fortress, the town has some important religious buildings, such as the Abbey of Santa Maria in Montesanto, which has been recently restored to its 13th century state and is one of the most beautiful monuments in the area.

L’Aquila, the capital city of the Abruzzo region, is a beautiful medieval town surrounded by the stunning Apennine Mountains, with the Gran Sasso d’Italia massif to the north east.

The town is situated on a hillside in the middle of a narrow valley and is a maze of narrow streets, lined with Baroque and Renaissance buildings, churches, and elegant piazzas.

Earthquakes have marked the history of L’Aquila, as the city is situated partially on an ancient lakebed that amplifies seismic activity. Despite being less than an hour-and-a-half drive from Rome, the city is sparsely visited by tourists but is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Don’t miss the Fountain of the 99 Spouts and the Renaissance castle of Forte Spagnolo during your visit, and if you have time, the nearby Navelli plateau is worth a visit for its fields of saffron crocuses which give Abruzzo its name: ‘the land of yellow gold’.

Scanno is set deep in the Sagittario Valley, high in the Abruzzo mountains, and is perhaps most famous for its glistening heart-shaped lake, Lago di Scanno. If you’re visiting in summer, the lake is a busy camping spot where locals and visitors alike go to swim and paddle board in the turquoise waters, before enjoying various music festivals and hot summer night parties.

Away from the lake, Scanno appears much like any other Italian hill town rising from the mountain in a jumble of buildings and towers. Spend some time here and you’ll find a fantastically well-preserved medieval mountain town with a beguiling history. 

The women of the town in their traditional dress and distinctive headgear have been captured and preserved on camera by some of the best photographers of the 20th century, including Cartier-Bresson and Giacomelli, and were known as the most beautiful women in Italy. Visit the higgledy-piggledy, tiny Museo della Lana to understand the very special photographic history of Scanno.

Amongst the beauty of Scanno’s medieval alleys and honeyed buildings, you will find workshops making and selling traditional local crafts, such as lace and jewelry as well as a handful of good restaurants and bars.  For authentic local food, head to Ristorante Alla Fonte by the church.

Trabocchi Coast

Undoubtedly one of the most captivating Italian territories overlooking the Adriatic Sea is the Coast of the Trabocchi, known as ‘the pearl of Abruzzo’.

The main attraction of this coast is the trabocchi , primitive yet complex fishing platforms constructed of wood that sit over the water. The historic structures resemble giant wooden crabs, or as noted poet Gabriele D’Annunzio wrote, ‘colossal spiders’, with protruding rods and an overall unique form.

Using pulleys and ropes, the elevated arms with nets attached to them are raised and lowered to catch the day’s fish from the clear water below. Today, only 23 remain, and some have become rustic restaurants.

The Costa dei Trabocchi includes the towns of San Vito Chietino, Rocca San Giovanni, Fossacesia, and Vasto, with the trabocchi tucked in coves or on points, accompanied by pebble beaches with crystal-clear water.

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Basilicata is a region of striking landscapes, characterized by rugged mountains and virgin forests, with occasional breaks for quaint villages and picturesque towns. Located in the instep of Italy’s boot, this fertile land was a battleground for ancient empires for centuries but is now a charming coastal holiday destination.

Castelmezzano

Castelmezzano is one of the most beautiful hidden treasures of Basilicata. It is also one of the two stations for the Flight of the Angel , the highest zipline in the world, which connects with Pietrapertosa on the opposite side of the valley, surrounded by the dramatic Lucanian Dolomites.

Entering the small village is an unusual experience, as you pass through a tunnel dug into the rock after crossing a spectacular gorge. Upon exiting the tunnel, Castelmezzano appears, perched and protected by the surrounding mountains.

The urban structure of Castelmezzano is typically medieval, with a concentric cluster of houses with sandstone slab roofs set in a rocky basin. Walking through the historic center is particularly evocative due to the presence of buildings cut into the bare rock and numerous steep stairs that open up between the alleys.

Of note is Santa Maria dell’Olmo with its majestic Romanesque style façade, which stands in Piazza Caizzo at the heart of the town.

A unique and unforgettable tourist destination in Basilicata, Matera is renowned for its extensive cave dwellings, the  Sassi   di Matera . Visitors can stay in caves, wander through the picturesque lanes alongside the cave-filled cliffs, and learn about the fascinating history of this place.

The caves of Matera have been inhabited for centuries, with some humble and some smarter residences. However, by the early twentieth century, the area was known for poverty. Until the 1950s, hundreds of families were still living crowded into cave houses, leading to squalor and malaria-ridden conditions.

The situation became a national scandal in Italy, and the cave residents were eventually moved by law to modern buildings on the plateau above. By the 1980s, the abandoned caves of Matera were no longer scandalous but fascinating reminders of the past.

Some of the wealthier residents moved back and renovated old cave houses and in 1993, Matera was made one of Italy’s newest UNESCO World Heritage sites for being ‘the most outstanding, intact example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region, perfectly adapted to its terrain and ecosystem’.

Since then, Matera has become increasingly popular as an off-the-beaten-track tourist destination. More and more old cave houses are being converted into comfortable modern dwellings, hotels, B&Bs, and restaurants, and visitors can take guided tours of the sassi and visit historic reconstructions of cave life.

Pollino National Park

The Pollino National Park , covering 1,925 square kilometers, is the largest natural park in Italy. Its unique landscapes and complex environments earned it the status of a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2015.

The protected area consists of the Pollino and Orsomarso massifs, home to some of the highest peaks in southern Italy, including Serra Dolcedorme, standing at 2,267 meters and offering stunning views of the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas.

Make sure to seek out the oldest tree in Europe, a Loricate Pine that is around 1,230 years old, and the natural thermal pool of Grotte Delle Ninfe in Cerchiara, which is rich in minerals and mud, ideal for skin treatments.

The park’s waterways feature deep gorges and wide valleys, perfect for sports such as rafting, canyoning, and canoeing. Nature enthusiasts can indulge in trekking, hiking, and mountain biking, with some excellent trails just waiting to be explored.

The subject of a thousand Instagram posts, the charming village of Rotondella is easily recognizable from above, with its houses nestled closely together and its streets winding up the hill in a distinctive spiral.

Known as ‘the balcony on the Ionian Sea’ for its breathtaking views of the stunning Lucanian Sea, Rotondella remains one of Basilicata’s hidden gems despite its photogenic fame.

Rotondella has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times when it was first inhabited by the indigenous population of the region. Over the centuries, it came under the influence of different civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Normans, and Aragonese.

In the medieval period, Rotondella thrived as a crucial agricultural center, renowned for its olive groves and vineyards. Its strategic location along ancient trade routes also contributed to its historical importance, and the legacy of this can be seen in the historic center which is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, ancient buildings, and charming squares.

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Calabria forms the metaphorical toe of the Italian boot and is often referred to as the ‘Caribbean of Europe’ due to its unspoiled beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and rustic charm. The countryside is dotted with hillside towns, ancient Greek temples, and Byzantine churches, making it one of Italy’s best-kept secrets.

Catanzaro is known as the ‘City Between Two Seas’ because of its location on the Isthmus of Catanzaro, Italy’s narrowest point, which separates the Ionian and Tyrrhenian coasts and is just 35 kilometers long.

Also known as the city of the three V’s, Catanzaro is named after its three distinct features. The first ‘V’ stands for Saint Vitalian, the patron saint of the city. The second ‘V’ represents velvet, as Catanzaro has been an important silk center since Byzantine times, producing the finest silks, velvets, damasks, and brocades.

The third ‘V’ symbolizes wind, as the city experiences strong breezes from the Ionian Sea and La Sila, a nearby mountainous plateau. The “VVV” symbol was used to identify Catanzaro’s silk industry for both domestic and foreign markets and became an icon for the city’s finest fabrications.

The historic center of the city boasts several significant monuments, including the Duomo where you can admire the Madonna and Child, a 16th century statue by Antonello Gagini da Messina. The Norman Tower, which has a square and crenelated shape, is the only remaining structure of the ancient Norman castle.

Cosenza, also known as the ‘City of the Bruzis’, is one of the oldest cities in Calabria. It is situated on seven hills in the valley of the Crati River, near the confluence of the Busento tributary.

The city’s origins date back to the fourth century BCE when it became strategically important for the Bruzi family. The old town, which clings to the slope of the Pancrazio Hill near the banks of the Crati, evokes its medieval atmosphere and history. Since the late 19th century, the new town has been expanding across the plain below.

In recent years, Cosenza has seen a revival of its vibrant past. The historic center is among the oldest and most beautiful in Italy, featuring monumental buildings, manor houses, churches, and narrow winding alleys that attest to its conformity.

Cosenza’s historic old town is packed with beautiful medieval and Baroque buildings including the the iconic 11th century Duomo di Cosenza on Piazza XV Marzo.

Other notable places to explore are the San Domenico Church, the Church of Sant’Agostino, and the ancient Castle of Cosenza, which dates back to the 13th century and offers panoramic views of the city and surroundings.

For more stunning views, hike to the top of Mount Pollino, located just outside of Cosenza. 

San Nicola Arcella

San Nicola Arcella is a charming coastal town located on the Tyrrhenian Sea coast that offers visitors a blend of historical heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a relaxing Mediterranean atmosphere.

During the medieval period, San Nicola Arcella became an important coastal town due to its strategic location along the Tyrrhenian Sea. The town’s historical legacy is reflected in its ancient buildings, churches, and historical landmarks.

One of the highlights of San Nicola Arcella is the Arcomagno Beach, a stunning cove with crystal-clear waters and a natural arch formation accessible by boat or on foot through a scenic trail and nearby Dino Island, also known as Isola di Dino, is a small island known for its white cliffs and sea caves.

Scilla is a captivating coastal village situated on the west coast of Calabria, known as ‘the jewel of the Costa Viola’.

This charming fishing village is reminiscent of famous spots on Italy’s Cinque Terre, with a patchwork of colored houses overlooking the calm waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Despite its beauty, Scilla remains virtually undiscovered by tourists.

Its location on the Strait of Messina, which connects Calabria to Sicily, offers a rich history with over 2,000 years of traditions in fishing for swordfish. According to ancient Greek legends, Scilla was home to the sea monster Scylla, one of the two monsters (alongside Charybdis) who guarded the Strait of Messina and terrorized Odysseus as he sailed the seas.

Today, Scilla is an enchanting town to visit, with charming streets to wander, a castle to explore, a sweeping beach, and extraordinary sunsets.

Tropea is a picturesque town that overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea as it juts out from the top of Italy’s toe. The stretch of land along which Tropea is located is known as the Costa degli Dei or Coast of the Gods.

Tropea’s allure is not new. Legend has it that Hercules founded the town upon return from his labors at the Pillars of Hercules, today’s Strait of Gibraltar.

Visitors will find the hero’s name gracing the main square, Piazza Ercole. However, Tropea’s history goes beyond the mythological, with discoveries of ancient Greek tombs and a Roman port in the area.

The old town perches over the sea, and Tropea’s antique palazzi are built right to the edge of the rock, which drops straight down to Tropea Beach below, providing panoramic views.

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A Bucket List Amalfi Coast Road Trip

Campania is a region renowned for its mild climate, fertile land, and breathtaking landscapes, and is home to some of Italy’s most iconic tourist attractions. The territory is mostly characterized by gentle hills, the Matese mountains, that border Molise, and the rugged Irpinia area.

Amalfi Coast

From Sorento to Salerno, the incredible Amalfi Coast boasts several gorgeous towns, like Amalfi and Ravello. Yet, Positano is the best-known of Amalfi’s towns and arguably the most beautiful.

Positano has beautiful beaches, like Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo, and Arienzo and the town is a jumble of narrow cobbled streets and pretty squares. In one of the streets is the Santa Maria Assunta Church, a must-see, which features a beautiful, tiled dome.

Avid hikers will delight in the Path of the Gods , a scenic trail that offers stunning views of the Amalfi Coast. The trail starts in Bomerano and ends in Nocelle, with several vantage points along the way.

For a different perspective of the Jenga-like pastel-painted houses as they tumble towards the sea, take a boat trip and visit the Blue Grotto cave and nearby Capri for a taste of the high life!

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Ischia, an island that has long been overshadowed by its fashionable neighbor Capri, is having a moment, but managing to retain its deep authenticity.

The island is part of a trio of islands known as the Phlegraeans off Naples, which also includes Capri and Procida. However, Capri’s popularity with day-trippers often makes the island a victim of over-tourism. In contrast, Procida is the smallest of the three and has never received much attention, although it is worth a visit for its pastel villages and artisan workshops.

Ischia’s charm lies in its position between being both newly fashionable and authentic. Although there is development, particularly in the hotel sector, there are still simple bars, beach clubs, and harbors that are more likely to dock fishing boats than super yachts.

The island is home to several delightful villages, such as Forio, Ischia Ponte, Sant’Angelo, and Casamicciola, and boasts natural thermal spas, lush vineyards, and deserted coves, making it easy to see why it is quickly becoming one of Italy’s up-and-coming destinations.

Mount Vesuvius

Vesuvius is one of three live volcanoes in Italy, the other two being Mount Etna in Sicily and Stromboli, which is one of the Aeolian Islands and has produced some of the continent’s largest volcanic eruptions.

It sits in the crater of the ancient Somma volcano, overlooking the Bay and the City of Naples, and is best known for the catastrophic eruption in 79 CE, which destroyed the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Despite its last eruption occurring in 1944, Vesuvius still poses a significant threat to the cities surrounding it, particularly the bustling metropolis of Naples.

Nevertheless, you can take a steady hike up Vesuvius for around 30 minutes before you plateau out onto the rim. The rim is very clearly defined with a path about 75% of the way around and much of the route is lined with wooden barriers to stop you from getting too close to the edge.

Don’t expect to see fire and brimstone spewing out of the crater, but you will see plenty of steam and can feel the heat coming off the crater in waves. The panoramic views of the Bay of Naples are spectacular.

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Naples, or Napoli for Italians, is a bustling port city with a population of 4.4 million inhabitants, known as ‘Neapolitans’, and is the third largest city in Italy.

Despite its lively and chaotic nature, Naples boasts a long and rich cultural history dating back 3000 years. While the city may initially appear dilapidated and neglected, it is home to many beautiful churches, museums, and monuments and the historic center is a UNESCO site.

As the birthplace of pizza, espresso, and football legend Diego Maradona, who played for SC Napoli, Naples has been a popular destination for city trips for years and is becoming more popular every year. Despite its increasing popularity, Naples offers a more authentic and less touristy feel than Rome or Venice .

Naples is home to many Neapolitan churches in Baroque and Renaissance styles, each with its own atmosphere and identity. The Duomo di Napoli, the city’s cathedral, houses the treasures of patron saint San Gennaro. Three times a year, his clotted blood liquefies, and if it doesn’t happen, it is believed to bring disaster upon Naples.

History enthusiasts will enjoy the National Archaeological Museum, which houses ancient artifacts from the Roman Empire and the ancient Catacombs of San Gennaro beneath the city. You can also visit the Royal Palace of Naples, built in the 17th century, to see marvelous frescoes, art, and furniture.

The Archaeological Park of Pompeii is located at the foot of the Vesuvius volcano.

The original city was founded around the 8th century BCE by the Osken people. While many cities in Campania were built by Greek settlers, Pompeii was an exception due to the fertile soil around the volcano.

Pompeii was conquered several times throughout its history, first by the Etruscans in the 6th century BCE, and in the 5th century BCE, it was conquered by the Samnites, like the rest of Campania. These conquests came to an end when the Romans defeated the Samnites in the 4th century BCE.

The Romans fortified the city of Pompeii, but the inhabitants did not take kindly to the conquest and revolted. The Romans did not let this go unpunished and in 81 BCE, Pompeii, having been besieged by the Romans, became an official Roman province.

In 62 CE, a major earthquake struck, causing chaos and severe damage to the city. Some of the inhabitants of Pompeii fled, but some stayed in the city to rebuild it, not knowing that this earthquake was the prelude to a much greater disaster.

Pompeii was completely covered in a meter-high layer of ash from a huge Vesuvius eruption in 79 CE. During the eruption, around 20,000 people lived in the area and it was also a much-visited holiday destination for the Romans. Although a large number managed to flee the city, over 1,000 human remains were found in the Pompeii ruins alone.

The volcanic eruption pushed cities like Pompeii and Herculaneum into oblivion. Finally, in the year 1599, the city was found during the digging of a canal and later in the 18th century, efforts were made to remove the two cities from the ash layer.

Today, Pompeii is one of Italy’s most popular tourist attractions and also a thriving site for historians and archaeologists, partly because of the ash layer, meaning everything that remained in the city has been extremely well preserved.

The smallest region in South Italy, Molise is an area rich with historical and cultural heritage, and an abundance of locally produced food and wine. This Italian hidden gem boasts a magnificent coastline with awe-inspiring cliffs, stunning natural reserves, and picturesque villages that appear to be frozen in time.

The capital of Molise, Campobasso is situated in the high basin of the Biferno River, surrounded by the stunning Sannio and Matese mountains.

The city is renowned for its skilled blade craftsmanship, including scissors and knives, a tradition that dates back to the 14th century, locally grown succulent pears, and delicious Scamorza cheese.

One of the city’s main attractions is the Castello Monforte, which was built in 1450 by the local ruler, Nicola II Monforte, on Lombard or Norman ruins. The castle has Guelph merlons, a style of crenelated parapet, and is situated on a commanding point, where traces of ancient settlements (including Samnite walls) have been discovered.

The magnificent old town of Campobasso is situated around the castle and its walls. It is renowned for its intricate network of alleys and winding stairways, resembling a labyrinth of ancient stone buildings that still maintain their distinctive characteristics. These include small courtyards or internal gardens, as well as rich decorations, friezes, and stuccoes, dating back to the noble families who once owned them.

Isernia is a small sleepy town surrounded by hills that are renowned for producing exquisite red, white, and rosé Italian DOC wines.

Despite enduring several episodes of destruction, Isernia has managed to preserve a significant number of archaeological remains and the historical center still maintains the same layout as the Roman cities, featuring a large raised market street, surrounded by numerous alleys and small squares.

The town is a photographer’s dream, with narrow atmospheric alleys capturing rays of light that bounce of buildings in every shade of terracotta from the palest putty to the deepest baked orange clay.

Don’t miss the 14th century Duomo di Isernia, a Roman Catholic cathedral dedicated to the Apostle Peter. The cathedral is situated in the Piazza Andrea in the old town and stands on the site of an Italic pagan temple of the 3rd century BCE.

Its present appearance is the result of many renovations, occasioned partly by numerous earthquakes and partly by building refurbishments.

Originally a fishing port, Termoli is on the Adriatic coast and today is a popular holiday destination with Italian families.

The old town has been meticulously restored and is a genuine walled community that protrudes into the sea. Many of the houses have been rebuilt and painted in a range of pastel colors, adding to the town’s charm.

In the central square, visitors can find the 12th century cathedral, and nearby is the Castello Svevo of Termoli, the most prominent structure in the town.

Built by Count Robert I of Loritello during the middle ages and extensively renovated during the rule of Frederick II after being damaged in an attack by the Venetian fleet, the Castle was part of a fortification system, which included a wall surrounding the entire city, of which only a tower remains visible today.

Termoli’s resorts are renowned for their pristine beaches and the relative purity of their waters, and the town makes a great base from which to explore the hilltowns of Larino, Casacalenda, Montorio, and Montelongo, which still preserve a rural way of life that is disappearing in other, more developed, parts of Italy.

Probably the best known of the regions in Southern Italy, Puglia, or Apulia , is the heel of Italy’s boot. Blessed with rolling countryside, miles of gorgeous beaches, vibrant towns, and delicious local olive oil, Puglia epitomizes the best of Italy without the crowds. Whether you’re a sun worshipper, culture vulture, or foodie, Puglia will tick all those boxes and more.

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Alberobello

For many, UNESCO Alberobello is the pinnacle of a Puglia trip, home of the famous Alberobello Trulli houses; a distinctive circular building with a conical roof. Trulli are built from local limestone stacked without using mortar and are considered one of the best examples of vernacular architecture in Europe.

The walls and openings of these round houses are generally whitewashed and the stone roof tiles often have religious, pagan or magical symbols painted on them. The origins of the Trulli are obscure although the name is also applied to ancient ground tombs found in the Roman countryside.

We found the Trulli site a little Disneyesque and overcrowded with day trippers. We much preferred the rural Trulli houses found in the Murge dei Trulli; they somehow seemed to sit better in the natural surroundings.

A walking tour is a good way of understanding the history and architecture of the Trulli houses and seeing some of the off-the-beaten-track highlights. 

Once you’ve finished admiring the trulli, head for Vino & Amore, a fabulous deli with a tasting room in the non-trulli part of town. The owner is passionate and enthusiastic about the local produce and will give you spot-on suggestions and descriptions for your lunch. Go there and eat lots of fabulous local produce and drink a glass of local wine. You won’t regret it.

Gallipoli is a charming small port town on the west coast of the heel. Head for the small island across the Ponte Papa Giovanni II, past the medieval Gallipoli Castle, and you’ll find a vibrant and busy tangle of streets and alleys. There is an old-world feel here and you can easily imagine what it must have been like 50 years ago.

Get off the main arteries and into the mass of houses, churches, and small family-run restaurants to experience the real Gallipoli. Whitewashed walls with the plaster chipping off and washing hanging from balconies covered in bougainvillea and wisteria just add to the ambiance.

There are numerous small churches and chapels, all with extraordinary doors, often carved from one piece of wood. Gallipoli is a photographer’s dream, every alley has an angle, every corner a surprise. You could wander for hours and never get lost – just keep going and eventually, you’ll get to the sea!

Head for the Basilica Cattedrale di Sant’Agata. The cathedral sits on the highest point of the island and has an incredibly ornate exterior. The interior is also ornate but where the outside is softened by the color of the stone and natural light, the inside is dark and feels a little forbidding, but the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into such buildings never fail to impress.

Lecce is often called ‘the Florence of the south’, due to the beautifully carved stone Pietra di Lecce, used in much of the 17th century Lecce Baroque style buildings.

Head for the old town, to the west of Castello Carlo V. Coming from the castle, you will arrive in the Piazza Sant’Oronzo, complete with a partially visible Roman amphitheater and a pretty dodgy 1970s clock tower which rather spoils the effect!

A central square is a great place for lunch, spending an hour or so with a tasty pizza and a glass of local wine means you can absorb the beauty of the pale Pietra di Leccastone at your leisure.  

Stroll along Via Vittorio Emanuele for shops, gelaterias, and cafés before arriving at the magnificent Piazza Duomo which not only houses the Duomo but the Palazzo Vescovile, a 70m campanile and a seminary, built by Giuseppe Zimbalo , known as Lo Zingarelli or ‘tiny gypsy’ in the 1600s.

You will have to pay and entrance fee to visit the Duomo…sometimes you can see too many churches, but the medieval crypt in this one is worth the entry fee. Studded with over 100 columns in serried ranks, the crypt is beautifully simple, the columns carved intricately and so differently to the fussy Baroque style in the cathedral above.   

Further along Via Vittorio Emanuele, you will find paper-mâché workshops, Lecce’s other claim to fame.

Other must-sees in Lecce are Porta Rudie, the 18th century city gate through which everyone who entered the city in ancient times would have passed; Santa Croce, the church built between 1549-1679 has a stunning rose window by Zimbalo and Chiesa del Rosario said to be Lo Zingarello’s finest work, with an ornate and detailed exterior.

If you’ve had enough of churches and religious buildings, wander the back streets of the old town not forgetting to look up at the fabulous architecture, and then head to one of Lecce’s beaches, like Punta Prosciutto, Torre Lapillo, or Porto Cesareo.

Built atop a hill, you’ll see Ostuni in the distance as you arrive through the lush Valle d’Itria. The so-called ‘ La Citta Bianca ‘ or ‘the white city’ (although the Italian is so much more romantic!) is a maze of alleys, stairs, dead ends, and glimpses of the Adriatic.

Head for the old town where the citadel at the top of the hill is still fortified by the ancient walls. This is where you will see the white walls and white-painted buildings that give the town its name, and from Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, the sunset over the Adriatic is one of the best we’ve seen.

Ostuni is one of the best places in Puglia for simply meandering, it’s a town just begging to be wandered! Make sure you wander in the morning or late afternoon after the long lunch break, this is when the town is at its most vibrant and lively.

Consider taking a walking tour here. Because of the maze-like nature of the citadel, it is easy to miss the best sights. Stop often for gelato and coffee to soak up and enjoy the atmosphere.

Santa María di Leuca

Santa Maria di Leuca, often referred to as simply Leuca, is at the southernmost point of the heel and sits on a promontory between the Ionian and Adriatic seas.

The Greeks called this place Leukos, meaning ‘brilliant sun’, and it was a prominent place in Magna Graecia , the name given by the Romans to the coastal areas of Southern Italy that were extensively populated by Greek settlers. Little did they know it would come to have some of the best beaches in Southern Italy and become a must-see place on any Puglia itinerary!

Leuca was a simple local fishing village until the end of the 19th century when tourists started to visit, attracted by the crystal clear waters and beautiful scenery. Many wealthy southern Italians made Leuca their summer residence and they built large and ornate villas which still decorate the seafront.

Head up to the lighthouse, which is the second most important in Italy after Genova. Next to the lighthouse sits the simple yet beautiful Basilica Sanctuary of Santa Maria de Finibus Terrae (end of the land), built to commemorate the passage of St. Peter here during his journey to Italy.

The views are stunning and sunsets draw a big crowd, so go early and wait it out with a beer if you want the best spot!

Evenings on the seafront are family-orientated and busy. There are lots of food vans selling crepes, gelato, and pizza along the promenade, as well as a number of restaurants and bars. Look out for the saltwater pool, when the surf is up, the waves crashing against it are mesmerizing.  

Just above the port is the Cascata Monumentale Di Leuca, the last point of the Apulia Aqueduct, a project that was started in 1868 and was not finished until 1941. The Cascata , which is 300 steps high, is not operated often and there is no set timetable, but you may be lucky during the summer months and even luckier to see a night operation where it is spectacularly lit. Check at the local Tourist Office for information.

There are a lot of sea caves to the east of Leuca which can only be explored by boat and all along the sea-front you will see signs for boat tours. You can visit  Grotta Della Poesia , the Cave of Poetry, by car from Leuca. This dramatic swimming hole is located in Roca Vecchia and is well worth a detour with your towel and swimmers in the boot of your hire car.

Taranto is home to the Tarantella, Italy’s lively and graceful folk dance. It was alleged that victims of the tarantula’s bite could cure themselves by frenzied dancing which sweated out the poison.

The dance is characterized by light, quick steps, and a teasing flirt and only takes place privately in Taranto at 6am on 29th June, every year to celebrate the Feast of St Peter and St Paul.  It is the only known place where the dance has survived.

The picturesque Città Vecchia is an island dividing the Mare Grande from the Mare Piccolo and was the site of the Roman citadel, Tarentum. The old town today is still laid out as it was in 967 CE.

There are now less than 1,000 people living on Città Vecchia, in a city of some 200,000 residents. The Duomo, founded in 1071, has been the object of much subsequent rebuilding and includes a catacomb-like crypt with sarcophagi and painted frescoes. Behind the Duomo is the 11th century San Domenico Maggiore with its high, double-approach Baroque staircase.

The impressive Castello Aragonese, the huge castle built by Frederick of Aragon in the 15th century, dominates the eastern corner of Città Vecchia.

Wander the streets, soak up the atmosphere and people-watch to your heart’s content, then head for the lively fish market for lunch. Held in a magnificent Art Deco building, you can buy and eat the fabulous and abundant shellfish, for which Taranto is famous.

Sicily is a gem of an island. Rich in Greek and Roman architecture, with stunning Baroque towns dotting the landscape, incredible natural wonders, and a beguiling capital city, Sicily has a wealth of experiences for you to discover and explore.

RELATED POST: Sicily Road Trip – Itinerary, Tips & Map

South of Agrigento town, the Valley of the Temples has an incredible entrance. Perched along the top of a ridge, the temple ruins are literally lined up and waiting for you to explore.

Start early before the tour buses and day-trippers arrive and spend an idyllic morning with the UNESCO World Heritage site to yourselves. Marvel at the fact that you can walk through and around the temples and ruins and touchstone that was quarried and chiseled thousands of years ago.

The rediscovery of this ancient site began towards the end of the 18th century when the first European travelers reached Sicily and discovered an unexpected and vast archaeological heritage.

The highlights are the Temple of Concordia , built around the 5th century and located along the Via Sacra. One of the best-preserved temples, the name Concordia comes from a Latin inscription found near the temple itself.

The Temple of Heracles is the oldest. Much of the temple was destroyed by wars and natural disasters and today has only eight columns left. The Temple of Castor and Pollux, the twin brothers born to Jupiter and the Queen of Sparta, has only four columns left and has become the symbol of Agrigento.

Not far from the Valley of the Temples is Scala dei Turchi or ‘stair of the Turks’, so called because marauding Turkish pirate ships were known to find shelter in the bay.

On first inspection, the cliffs of Scala dei Turchi seem too perfect and too white to actually be real. But real they are and made of soft limestone and blinding white marl, shaped, smoothed, and buffed over millennia by the sea and wind to look like a giant meringue, rising up from an impossibly blue surrounding sea.   

Cefalù, recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, is situated on the northern coast.

The town is dominated by a monumental rock rising to a height of 270 meters, which was already known to the Phoenicians as the promontory of Hercules. The Temple of Diana, a megalithic building linked to the cult of water, stands on the rock and is accompanied by a nearby cistern dating back to the 5th century BCE.

The historic quarter of Cefalù lies in the shadow of a towering bastion and is clustered around the Duomo, a colossal cathedral commissioned by Ruggero II the Norman. The outsized proportions of the Basilica are amplified by the ancient megalithic walls, of which evidence remains along the Giudecca cliffs and at the ancient Porta Terra, now Piazza Garibaldi.

Cefalù’s pretty beaches are some of the most stunning on the island, featuring sandy shores and romantic rocky coves, perfect for diving into the crystal-clear waters, and the walk through the ancient gate of Porto Pescara to Spiaggia del Porto Vecchio is a real Instagram moment.

UNESCO listed Mount Etna is Sicily’s biggest natural wonder and Europe’s largest and most active volcano, standing a mighty 3,350m high. After Kilauea on Hawaii, Mount Etna is considered the second most active volcano in the world.  

If that doesn’t put you off, you can get to the summit of Mount Etna, look deep into her craters, and hear the rumbling magma stirring. It’s like a moonscape at the top, with sulfur swirling around the ash-covered landscape, and views that are often above the clouds.

Getting to the top of Mount Etna involves a cable car, a specially adapted bus, and hiking for the 400 meters or so of the ascent with a specialist vulcanologist guide. The sense of achievement and wonder at the top, as the guide shares a flask of local wine with you, is well worth the effort of getting there!

The most complex of all the cities in southern Italy, Palermo has been caught between West and East for millennia. With dazzling buildings, Arab-Norman architecture, hidden corners, and chaotic markets, any visit to Palermo is exhilarating.

You must visit the food market which is on every day and situated in the area around Via Porta Carini. Here you can buy street food, fish, meat, fruit, vegetables and pretty much everything else you can imagine.

You can stop for a coffee and people watch, choose your fish and meat and have it cooked in front of you, to be eaten on a ramshackle table in the open air, or simply wander and take in the colors, sounds, and smells of this fabulous market.  

Must sees include Catalan-influenced Palermo Cathedral; the Palatine Chapel inside the Palazzo dei Normanni, famous for its mosaics and gold decor; the Arab-Norman churches of San Giovanni degli Eremiti and La Martorana; and Fontana Pretoria in what was one called the ‘Squate of Shame’ due to the nudity of the statues!

RELATED POST: One Day in Palermo – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Segesta is a glorious temple and Roman amphitheater, incredibly well-preserved and picturesque. Easily accessible on a day trip from Palermo less crowded than the Valley of the Temples, and set in beautiful rolling countryside, the Temple of Segesta is a must-see on any Southern Italy itinerary.

A magical place, the setting between lush rolling hills, with far distant views to the sea and mountains, is perfection. The surrounding fields, with their exact rows of silver-green olive trees and vines, are archetypal Italian and just add to the atmosphere of Segesta.

The architecture of both temple and amphitheater is breathtaking. The temple is particularly interesting due to its unfinished nature and complexity. It is impressive that it has survived as intact as it is, given that until just a few years ago, visitors were able to walk inside and around the columns. 

RELATED POST: Segesta Sicily: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know

Syracuse (or Siracusa) is a city on the Ionian coast of Sicily known for its ruins. It has a vibrant and modern café culture, with lots of great bars and restaurants, and is perfect for an afternoon strolling the pretty streets, window-shopping, and admiring the architecture.

Head for the old town of Ortigia, on an island connected to the new city by the Ponte Umbertino. Cross from new to old and you’ll find yourself in another world, with magnificent ancient churches, a temple, local markets, and even a castle.  

Make sure to visit Piazza Duomo to see the Cathedral, a fascinating mix of pagan temple and Christian church. The Duomo stands on the ruins of a temple dedicated to Athena, built in 480 BCE. Behind the Baroque facade of the cathedral, Doric columns from the original temple are still visible.

Another must-see is the Fonte Aratuse, a fountain originating from a freshwater spring that creates a small semi-circular lake. Here there are fish, geese, and ducks, and the only naturally occurring Papyrus in Europe.  

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Southern Italy itinerary – Best places to visit

Southern Italy is full of history, cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. If you only have 10 days for your visit, you can try this itinerary through the main cities to get a general overview of this area and come back in the future to further explore your favorite destinations.

Table of Contents

Best time to visit Southern Italy

Spring. The weather is warm (without being hot, like during summer months) and there are fewer tourists around, so that you can enjoy both the cities and the natural landscapes at their best. In May, you can also enjoy some “beach life” and have a swim!

Southern Italy itinerary overview

This Southern Italy itinerary includes the following places of interest: 

• Amalfi Coast (Positano, Praiano, Amalfi and Ravello)
• Alberobello

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Where to sleep in Southern Italy

Where to stay in naples.

Here are two great hotel recommndations for your stay in Naples.

Renaissance Naples Hotel Mediterraneo

This 4-star hotel, a member of the Marriott Group, is located centrally close to the main attractions of Naples and the ferry terminal. Rooms are comfortable and modern while the rooftop where breakfast is served has lovely views of the Bay, Castel Nuovo, and Mount Vesuvius.

Click here for more information and to check the latest prices.

Grand Hotel Europa – Sea Hotels Group

Located near the main station, this hotel is an excellent choice for those thinking about visiting Pompeii or the Amalfi Coast. It provides excellent 3-star value with comfortable rooms including Wi-Fi, satellite TV, air-con and safe.

Click here for more information and to book the Grand Hotel Europa.

For more hotel recommendations check out my post where to stay in Naples here .

Where to stay in Matera:

You shall definitely seize the opportunity to sleep in Sassi district (or even in a real Sasso!) to enjoy this beautiful scenery, both day and night. On my visit to Matera I stayed at the :

Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita

Located in the Sassi area of Matera, this luxury hotel offers rooms with stone floors and antique furnishing.  Room Amenities include Wi-Fi and air-conditioning, The hotel also offers a terrace with panoramic views of the Murgia National Park. This was one of the most unique and beautiful hotels I have stayed.

Click here for more information and to book your room. 

Another great option for your stay in Matera is the Hotel Sassi . 

Where to stay in Bari

The best districts to stay are Murat if you want to enjoy the local nightlife and some shopping. and the Old Town if you want a picturesque location.

A great hotel option in the Murat area is the Bari Oriente and in the Old Town the Palace Hotel .

Where to stay in Taranto

If you are traveling by car and you are happy to stay outside of Taranto, I recommend the Masseria Amastuola Wines and Resort . 

It is located in Crispiano 17 km away from Taranto and 40 km away from Alberobello the Masseria dates back to the 15th century. It is surrounded by 170 hectares of olive trees and vineyards and its rooms feature hand painted tiles against a dark wood background or simple white tiled backsplash. Each room has its own private bathroom and seating area with comfy chairs. Luxurious toiletries, wifi, and exceptional service are included in the room rate.

Click here for more information and to book a room.

If you are looking to stay inside Taranto a great option is  Viale Virgilio, that is the main waterfront walk. 

In Viale Virgilio a great option is the Mercure Delfino Hotel .

A 10 day Southern Italy itinerary

Southern italy itinerary: day 1 arrive in naples.

Your 10-days itinerary starts in Naples.

How to get there? The best solution is a flight arriving at Capodichino Airport. From there, you can reach the city center either by car or by bus (it will only take about 20 minutes). For more information about airport shuttles visit here. Naples is also very well connected to the main Italian cities by train in case you arrive from somewhere else. 

In the afternoon, you can start your visit from San Carlo Theater . It is the oldest Opera House in Europe which is still active today and it represents one of the most important cultural institution in Italy. Enjoy a guided tour in English to discover its neoclassical decorations and its history.

You can now head to Piazza del Plebiscito , one of the largest historical squares in Italy and visit the Royal Palace . Don’t miss its roof garden with their beautiful view of the city and the sea;

Day 2: Explore Naples 

Start you day with a visit to Maschio Angioino Castle (also named Castel Nuovo ), which is one of the most iconic monuments of the city.

Have a walk in via Calabritto , which is the ultimate shopping destination in Naples, and reach Vittoria Square . This is one of the most important places in town, which celebrates the victory of the Christians over the Turkish during Lepanto battle (1571 A.C.). In front of the sea, you can notice the so-called “broken column”, a monument dedicated to the people who died at sea;

In the afternoon, you can have a tour of the underground city : it is a guided tour lasting 1 hour and taking you to hidden places like narrow alleys, reservoirs, archeological remains and other places located about 40 meters underground. You can find a Roman theater from Nerone’s Age, but also the shelters people used during World War II. For more information and to book a tour click here.

To breathe some fresh air, have a walk along Spaccanapoli , that is the main street going through the whole ancient city center;

You might also like my 3-day Naples itinerary.

Day 3: Day Trip to Pompeii and Sorento

Today, head to Pompei . How to get there? It takes 35 minutes by train and 30 minutes by car, so it’s really close to Naples city center. Pompei would require at least a whole day of visit to be fully explored, but if you only have 3 or 4 hours don’t miss the Foro, the Teatro Grande, The Terme Stabiane and Casa del Fauno. 

Tip: There will be queues in Pompeii so booking in advance allows you to get in quickly and not waste your time otherwise be there as soon as the archaeological site opens.

Here are a few options that I recommend:

• If you want just to skip the line and see the archaeological site on your own I suggest that you buy a fast track entrance ticket .
• If you would like to do a guided tour and also skip the lines I suggest this 2 hour skip the line guided tour .

You can spend the afternoon in Sorrento . It requires a 45 minutes’ drive from Pompei, but you can also reach it by train in 30 minutes. What you cannot miss: Tasso Square, Corso Italia, San Francesco Cloister, Villa Comunale, the Cathedral and, if you have enough time, the mills’ gorge. Late in the afternoon, you can go back to Naples.

Day 4: Day Trip to the Amalfi Coast

Day trip to Amalfi Coast . The best solution is driving all day with a rented car and go from village to village or take a guided tour doing the same thing by bus. Amalfi coast has plenty of picturesque villages, beautiful beaches and landscapes and you cannot choose one single destination. Moreover, driving there it’s an amazing experience as well, because of the panoramic road giving you the chance to take wonderful pictures. You can choose to stop at 2 locations in the morning and 2 locations in the afternoon, to make the best of your day.

Some suggestions:

• Positano: you need about 1h15 to get there from Naples, but you cannot miss Spiaggia Grande (Large Beach), because it’s one of the most popular locations of the entire coast and it has one of the most typical views you can think of. If you go there in summer, it’s best to skip it, because it will be too crowded!
• Praiano : a picturesque village with the beautiful San Gennaro Church decorated with a traditional majolica floor;

• Amalfi: it is a real town and not just a village and it is the main location of the coast. It was once one of the Italian Maritime Republics together with Pisa, Genova and Venice. Amalfi has plenty of works of art and pieces of heritage and it would require an entire day of sightseeing. Anyway, make sure you visit the Cathedral and the Paradise Cloister;
• Ravello: one of the most iconic places in Ravello is Villa Rufolo, which is located in the center of the village and offers a beautiful and relaxing garden;

In the evening, you can choose to go back to Naples or to stop at a typical restaurant along the way to experience a traditional dinner watching the sunset on the sea.

You might be interested in: The best towns to visit in the Amalfi coast

and my Amalfi Coast itinerary.

Southern Italy Itinerary Day 5 : Head to Matera 

Head to Matera, in Basilicata. How to get there? It takes 4 hours by train and 3 hours by car;

Start your visit from Casa Noha . It is an ancient mansion where you can see digital videos and multimedia materials explaining the story of the city. It is the best starting point of a sightseeing tour and it offers all the general information you may need;

Late in the afternoon, you can still have a look at the Maria Santissima della Bruna Cathedral , which has been recently restored and it’s definitely worth a visit for its many works of art.

Day 6: Explore Matera

Today it’s time to explore Sassi, that is the ancient historical districts of the city, entirely built of local stone inside the rocks themselves. The two districts are named Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano and they are located on two slopes creating a sort of natural amphitheater.

You can either visit them alone and wander through their narrow alleys admiring the buildings or take a guided tour. There are many local guides and tour operators offering daily tours, so that you can have a look on the internet and message them before your arrival;

Later in the afternoon, you should also visit the Museum of Peasant Civilization, to better understand local culture and the way people used to live here.

You might be interested in this 2-hour walking tour of the Sassi. 

Day 7: Bari or Murgia Materana Natural Park 

Option 1: travel to Bari , in Puglia. How to get there? You can take a bus and arrive in Bari in just 1 hour. Flixbus Company has really cheap tickets and frequent rides ( https://global.flixbus.com/ ). Once you get there, make sure to visit San Sabino Cathedral , that is one of the most important examples of Romanic style in Southern Italy. Visit also its underground archeological remains. In the afternoon, you can either stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the beautiful scenery or relax on the beach!

Option 2: if you prefer to continue exploring Basilicata Region, have a trip to Murgia Materana Natural Park . It is only 20 minutes away from Matera and you can also enjoy a guided tour letting you discover its natural landscapes at sunset or dawn. This area is a natural-historic-cultural site hosting some ancient rocky churches and a wide range of local flora and fauna.

Day 8 : Explore further Puglia 

Depending on your interests you can choose one of the below options. One of my favorite things to do in the area is a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alberobello.

Option 1: day trip to Alberobello . You can reach this village by train from Bari (1h30) or by car (1 hour). Its main attraction consists of its typical stone houses named “Trulli”. This is a World Heritage site and you can spend the whole day here, since there are many examples of buildings, churches and shops to explore;

Option 2: head to Bari and spend your day visiting the city. Ideal sightseeing for 1 day: San Sabino Cathedral, Aqueduct Building, Petruzzelli Theater, Old Port, Norman Castle and waterfront;

Option 3: one day on the beach in of the best beaches in the area: Lido San Francesco all’Arena, Pane & Pomodoro Beach or Lido Sun Beach;

Option 4: one day on the beach in Polignano a Mare , a seaside resort near Bari. You can reach it by train (about 35 minutes) and enjoy a relaxing day on its most popular beach named Cala Monachile. Its beautiful scenery and its transparent water make it the favorite location for both locals and tourists. Visit also the picturesque city center.

Day 9 : Explore Taranto

Head to Taranto , another important city in Puglia. You can easily reach it by train from Bari (about 1 hour);

The most popular attraction is Aragonese Castle (also called Sant’Angelo Castle), which is an ancient fort built on the coastline to protect the city during the XVth century 

Don’t miss the swing bridge nearby: it is an iron bridge connecting the New Town with Old Town Island;

If you still have a couple of hours, visit the National Archeological Museum to better understand the history of the city and the whole Magna Grecia territory (Southern Italy in general).

Day 10 Taranto 

Spend you last day in Taranto on a 5-hours cruise to see dolphins and listen to a dedicated biologist explaining the local biodiversity. You can participate in the program “Researcher for a Day” at the Jonian Dolphin Conservation Center ; That was one of my absolutely favorite activities in the area.

To come back home, you can either catch a flight at Salento Airport in Brindisi (1-hour drive from Taranto) or leave by train from the main railway station. Either way, you’ll have direct connections with all the main Italian cities.

What to taste during this Southern Italy Itinerary

Naples: pizza, of course! If you are there during the Easter month, taste also “pastiera”, a typical tart made with ricotta and orange flower water.

Sorrento: for a typical lunch, taste “gnocchi alla sorrentina”. It’s a simple dish made of gnocchi, tomato sauce, mozzarella and basil.

Amalfi Coast: have a romantic dinner in front of the sea tasting “scialatielli allo scoglio”, that is the local pasta shape with a seafood sauce. After dinner, don’t forget to ask for a glass of Limoncello, that is the famous liqueur produced with local lemons.

Matera: local bread is one of most prized Italian gastronomic products and it’s also the perfect ingredient for local “bruschetta”. They can be tasted as a snack, a quick lunch or an appetizer before dinner.

Bari: the main local dish is pasta with turnip greens and anchovies. If you feel like a quick snack, search for the next bakery and ask for some “taralli” (savory crackers).

Taranto: for street food lovers there’s a perfect lunch consisting in “panzerotto tarantino”, that is a small fried “calzone” stuffed with mozzarella and tomato sauce.

Have you decided to stay longer in Southern Italy? You might be interested in:

• Things to do in Puglia.
• Thinking of extending your stay to Sicily island? Check out my 5 day Sicily itinerary and the best things to do in Palermo .
• Explore the off- the- beaten -track  places in Puglia
• Wondering what to pack for your Italy vacation from May to October? Check my post here . 

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12 Beautiful Towns In Southern Italy That You Must Visit

Yup, I’m hankering on about Italy again! Honestly, I just can’t help it, it’s one of my favourite countries in the world to visit. Now, if you’re anything like me, you’ll love how diverse Italy is. In lots of ways, the North feels so different from the south, which can actually feel like a totally different country (but somehow, still surprises me). Even the Italian language sounds so different, but that’s just one of the things that makes gorgeous cities such as Milan , regions such as Cinque Terre and places like Rome feel so different and totally special.

Now, if you’re hankering for a little bit of sunshine and that gorgeous Italian charm, then you’ve gotta visit some of the beautiful towns in Southern Italy. 

The south of Italy is known in Italian as the ‘Mezzogiorno’ or ‘Midday’ region and has some of the oldest and most important historical towns in Italy as well as some of the most epic beaches (that’s perfect for a chillout day).

Anyway, before I ramble any more about my love for Italy (and specifically, Sothern Italy), here are the most beautiful towns in Southern Italy that I hope you’ll love. 

1.) Maratea

Maratea is positioned along the rocky coastline of the Mediterranean Sea and this medieval town with its ritzy harbour is one of the top spots in Italy.

If you want to stay here during the summer you may have to book well in advance to secure your chosen hotel as rooms book up FAST.

For a sumptuous stay, pop over to the  Santavenere Hotel  that even has its very own beach. It’s a great spot for cocktails and enjoying the lovely coast.

2.) Sorrento

Sorrento is an almost perfect blend of little streets and stunning history – it’s one of the most beautiful towns in Southern Italy. Within easy reach of Naples by the choo-choo train, car or ferry from here to the nearby Isle of Capri, it’s a great spot to visit on your trip around Italy.

Best of all, It’s totally convenient for visiting Pompeii and has some great views of Mount Vesuvius, too. Sorrento has some yummy restaurants and is well renowned for its gourmet cuisine.

Make sure to check out Accento Restaurant which serves up some of the best seafood in the area. What else could you want from beautiful towns in southern Italy? Well, maybe gelato, eh? 

Oh, and don’t forget to book this Amalfi and Positano boat trip . It departs from Sorrento and is just beautiful. Just be sure to book your tickets in advance; places do fill up during the summer.

Plus, you can see the other tours we also love.

3.) Paestum 

Paestum is a town on Italian soil but it was founded by the ancient Greeks when they were in control of this part of Italy, then it was known as Poseidonia after the god of the sea.

The Greek architecture alone is worth a visit so be sure to put that into your itinerary in addition to visiting the three well-preserved Greek temples that you have to see. The oldest was built about 550BC (give or take a year 🤣 )and is the Temple of Hera which is amazing.

If you’re short on time, you can also make a day trip from your lodgings or stay overnight at the gorgeous, Mec Paestum Hotel .

Just be sure to book your tours to the temples, especially if you’re departing from nearby Sorrento. There are some really great tours that take in the temple with a guide (or alone). Take a look at our favourites, below.

4.) Alberobello

The town of Alberobello is unique in that it is the best-preserved example of Trulli architecture to be found in all of Italy (well, so I was told).

Homes built in the Trulli style are made with conical stone roofs without using mortar (though, I’m no builder so don’t quote me on that).

The oldest homes date from the 14 th century and totally stunning, making it one of the must-see and beautiful towns in Southern Italy to visit.

To make things easier, book this 2-hour walking tour of Alberobello . It’s such a great way to explore the Trulli houses and really learn more about the history and culture of this town in Southern Italy. 

Book: The best 2-hour walking tour of Alberobello

Look, I’m warning you in advance… there are so many photo opportunities in the beautiful ancient town of Tropea.

Perched on top of some sheer cliffs and across the road from a narrow sandy beach, it’s said to have been founded by Hercules himself.

If you’re sightseeing, there are two gorgeous churches in Tropea too, the Santa Maria del’Isola is a medieval church that was built on an island although years of siltation have resulted in a land bridge forming between the island and the mainland.

The other is the cathedral; it has two unexploded bombs dating from WW2 sitting just outside the church door. Locals believed the building was protected by the patron saint so watch your step! 

The churches alone make this one of the most beautiful towns in Southern Italy. You’ll love it!

Okay, yes – technically a city but I had to include it!

Naples or Napoli as it is known locally is the largest city in southern Italy and is the birthplace of the original pizza, the food here is taken very seriously and the city has a strong personality of its own full of narrow winding streets with a strong African influence that makes it so unique.

To be honest, It’s a city you’ll either love or hate (it always seems to foster such polarising views). If you’re in the city, you might wanna head over to the medieval castle of Castel Nuovo, it’s huge!

The seafront fortress of Castel del’Ovo is another popular haunt you’ll enjoy exploring. Best of all, Naples is close to mainland Europe’s only active volcano, Mount Vesuvius.

Read more: Best things to do in Naples

7.) Capri 

Technically a small island, Capri has a gorgeous town and marina that you have to explore. 

The whole island is rich in history and mythology and one lovely spot you have to visit when in the region.

If you’re looking for things to see, The home of Roman Emperor Tiberius (Villa Jovis) is still one of the major spots to see on the island and so is the Blue Grotto.

The waterfront cave is only accessible by boat and only when there are favourable tides (so be prepared for cancellations).

Just be sure to book your Capri and Blue Grotto boat tickets before you arrive. Tickets go like hot cake in the summer and you really don’t want to be stuck when you arrive. 

Book: Capri and Blue Grotto boat tickets (from Sorrento)

8.) Pompeii and Herculaneum

Pompeii and Herculaneum were two Roman towns and villages that were obliterated when Mount Vesuvius erupted all the way back in 79AD.

Probably the most famous of the two is the town of Pompeii, which you can now wander around and explore when you’re in the area.

An awful  3,000 people perished in the town, but the hot ash immortalised the ruins into what it is today. Be warned, it can get pretty busy here, so plan accordingly and remember you might have to queue for a ticket to enter. 

Oh, also the nearby town of Herculaneum is smaller and was a wealthier district and gives an example of how the wealthy Romans once lived.

Make sure to visit the Herculaneum Archaeological Area if you’re a history buff! 

Finally, be sure to book either the guaranteed Pompeii entry ticket or the guided tour, below. This way, you’ll avoid lots of queuing for tickets and touts.

Read more: How to visit Pompeii

9.) The towns of the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is actually a cluster of clifftop towns and little villages along with one of southern Italy’s most beautiful coastal roads that is pretty hair-raising to drive.

I still can’t figure out if the drive is terrifying or exciting… I’ll let you decide.

It’s certainly not a route for the nervous driver but a truly spectacular road and a great way to see several traditional towns in the area like; Vietri sul Mare, Positano , Minori and Cetara.

If you are too nervous to drive this route, you can take a boat tour from Sorrento to view at a less sweat-inducing pace.

Read more: Best things to do on the Amalfi Coast

10.) Castelmola

Perched on the island of Sicily , Castelmola is one of the most beautiful towns in southern Italy to visit. Yep, it’s a pretty small town but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth seeing.

Best of all, it overlooks the more famous town of Taormina. Yes, Taormina is a more popular destination but Castelmoia is mostly ignored by all but Sicilians.

It is relatively unspoiled and you could be one of the first non-Italians to venture here (okay, I jest, but you get the picture). Not only that, there are some of the best beaches in Sicily not too far away. 

A word of warning, it is a steep climb up to the village but you are rewarded with spectacular views, much better than those you would get from Taormina below.

Read more: Best places to visit in Sicily

11.) Matera 

Perched in the countryside of Southern Italy is the stunning town of Matera – a spot you have to see.

When in the town, make sure to visit the old caves (Sassi de Matera) that once used to be homes, see the stunning architecture of this hilltop settlement and gorge on all the gelato that you’ll have no problem finding.

It really is a stunning place. Though, to make your trip super easy, book a guided walking tour of Matera itself. This way, you’re guaranteed not to miss any part of this incredible city; see our favourite tours, below.

Read more: Best things to do in Matera

12.) Castelmezzano

Saving the best till last? I’ll let you decide!

The small town of Castelmezzano (nestled in the mountains of southern Italy) has been given the classification of one of the most beautiful towns in southern Italy.

Totally surrounded by mountains the town was a refuge for bandits in the 19 th century because of its abundance of hiding places. Thankfully, today that’s not a problem that we visitors will have to deal with.

Around 1,000 people live here permanently, and that numbers grow several times larger with the influx of summer visitors – so be prepared for busy streets in the height of summer.

Still, it makes for one of the most beautiful towns to visit in Southern Italy.

Read more: The best places to visit in Italy

17 Beautiful Places In Italy To Visit

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Southern Italy’s Top Attractions

The vast majority of people going to Italy never get further south than Rome, which is a shame. There are a number of places in southern Italy that would be flooded with tourists if it had been further north. Sure, the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii are in southern Italy and both rank among the country’s most popular tourist destinations, but that’s just scratching the surface.

These seven attractions deserve more attention than they tend to get from travelers – some of them are all but unknown by most of the people who visit Italy every year. I’d like to see these spots get a little more tourist love, so here’s a brief introduction to places in the south of Italy that you may not have heard of but are well worth your time.

(And no, this is by no means a comprehensive list of the only places worth visiting in southern Italy. But you knew that, right? Right.)

There are affiliate links below, which means I get a little something if you book one of these tours – but it won’t cost you anything extra.

Sassi di Matera

Overlooking Matera || public domain photo by Jack78

The Basilicata city of Matera is home to a series of cave dwellings believed to have been inhabited as far back as 7000 BCE. They were used by residents of the town until the middle of the 20th century, when the people were forced to relocate. Today, many have been renovated to make them habitable, and some have been turned into unique hotels. The caves are called “sassi,” and the town of Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Viator Tours of Matera
• Select Italy Tours of Matera

Alberobello Trulli

Alberobello trulli || creative commons photo by Eduard Marmet

The pretty town of Alberobello in Puglia is best known for its unique houses – cylindrical white structures with conical gray roofs called “trulli.” The buildings serve as homes, shops, restaurants, and – now – even hotels. These traditional structures are found in other parts of Puglia, too, but the most popular place to see them is Alberobello.

• Viator Tours of Alberobello
• Select Italy Tours of Alberobello

Blue Grotto

Inside the Blue Grotto || creative commons photo by Brad Coy

The Blue Grotto on the island of Capri off the Amalfi Coast isn’t the only sea cave in which the water glows in an ethereal way, but it’s one of the best-known. Sunlight fills the mostly-underwater cavern from a place that, when you’re inside the cave, you can’t really see. The light filters up through the water, which makes it glow a brilliant blue color by what seems like magic. The cave’s entrance is only accessible if the tide is right, and even then only in a small rowboat.

• Viator Tours of the Blue Grotto
• Select Italy Tours of Capri

Reggia di Caserta

Caserta Park and Palace || creative commons photo by Nicola

Not far from Naples is a former royal palace with enormous manicured gardens. The palace known as the Reggia di Caserta is Italy’s answer to Versailles, built in the late 18th century for the Bourbon kings of Naples and now now open to the public. You can see the royal apartments, a gallery of fine paintings, and the expansive gardens on a day trip from Naples .

• Viator Tours of Caserta
• Select Italy Tours of Caserta

Temples at Paestum || creative commons photo by Oliver-Bonjoch

The ruins of Paestum are not Roman, but Greek. The three ancient Greek temples on the site date from the 5th-6th centuries BCE, when Paestum was an important city in Magna Graecia. Other ruins uncovered include an amphitheater and Roman Forum that date from the 3rd century BCE, and an on-site museum contains many of the artifacts found during excavations. Today, this UNESCO site is an easy day trip from Salerno, but you can also visit on a day trip from Sorrento or Naples .

• Viator Tours of Paestum

Valley of the Temples

Valley of the Temples || creative commons photo by Panegyrics of Granovetter

More Greek ruins are on the island of Sicily in an area known as the Valley of the Temples, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. These temple ruins are some of the best-preserved ancient Greek ruins anywhere, with seven temples in various states of ruin that you can visit on a day trip from Taormina, Palermo, or nearby Agrigento. Don’t be confused by the geography, though, as the temples are on hills rather than the valley in the name.

• Viator Tours in Agrigento
• Select Italy Tours of the Valley of the Temples

Mt. Etna erupting in 2012 || creative commons photo by andrea

The massive Mt. Etna volcano near the eastern coast of Sicily is Europe’s tallest active volcano, and – yes – it spits out fiery bursts of lava on a pretty regular basis, but there are still a number of towns and cities a short distance from the mountain (not to mention some extremely productive farmland on its slopes). In the summer, Etna is a fascinating spot for guided hikes (provided it’s not about to erupt), and in the winter it’s a popular local ski area. Foodies and wine lovers will appreciate the bounty surrounding the mountain, too.

• Viator Tours to Mt. Etna
• Select Italy Tours to Mt. Etna
• Walks of Italy Tours of Mt. Etna

10 responses to “Southern Italy’s Top Attractions”

Some of the most beautiful sights in southern Italy. I have been fortunate enough to see all but Matera, This will be part of next years visit. Paestum is amazing and less traveled than Agrigento. If some one is ambitious enough to travel to Sicily via the Autostrada del Sole, it is a great stop over. The photo or Mt Etna by Andrea is spectacular!

There are so many great photos of Mt. Etna, it’s awfully photogenic! 🙂

do you have a link for the train routes in sicily? i have the trentalia site but i need a route map

I don’t have one; the best I could find is a map from 2007 on my friend Madeline’s website (but I’m not even sure where she got that map).

All great suggestions. Matera is certainly enchanting. I first visited Matera on a day trip and then went back for a few days last year and slept in a hotel in the Sassi! I particularly love the ancient temples of Paestum and Agrigento. Of course, I’m partial to Calabria and I’d vote for the Bronzes of Riace in Reggio’s archeological museum, which is full of ancient wonders from the Greek period, but for lovers of temples, there’s only one full column still standing in the region and that’s in the town of Crotone.

I thought about adding the Riace Bronzes… Perhaps I’ll have to do that. 🙂 Thanks for the note!

Today’s Newsletter focused on Southern Italy couldn’t have been more perfectly timed! My husband and I traveled to Italy last month for the first time! We followed Italy Explained 2 week Itinerary for first time visitors to Italy and added a few side trips. Our trip included Rome, Florence (we rented a car and drove to San Gimignano, Volterra, Sienna, Pisa), Cinque Terra (I recommend at least 2 days here. This is a MUST for anyone), and Venice. We absolutely fell in love with Italy and are now planning a trip to Southern Italy next year. I have 2 questions that I didn’t see noted anywhere. First, which airport would you suggest flying into? Second, what’s the best time of year to travel to this region?

Oh, I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed your first Italy trip, and that my site was helpful! I love hearing that. 🙂 As for your next trip, the airport(s) you choose depends on your itinerary. Here’s a list of the major international airports in Italy by region . I still recommend open-jaw tickets, unless your itinerary turns out to be vaguely circular anyway. “Best time of year” is a bit subjective, too, depending on what types of activities are on your list. Personally, I shy away from the summer months (mostly because I don’t deal well with hot weather), but if you want to focus on beaches then you need warm weather. The average temperatures for Palermo are listed on my Italy weather page, to give you an idea of historic averages, but note that in recent years (since those numbers were compiled) the average highs have gone way up.

What is an open jaw ticket?

Thanks for the question, Bernie – I should probably define that in an article at some point. An “open-jaw” ticket simply means you fly into one city and out of another, rather than back-tracking to your arrival city for your departure.

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The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

25 Best Places To Visit In Southern Italy

Last Updated on July 29, 2023 by Soumya

Traveling to Southern Italy and looking for the best places to visit ? Wondering if Italy’s southern coast is the perfect place to holiday? What are the top tourist destinations in South Italy that you could add to your itinerary?

Well! Well! We have just the perfect South Italy bucket list for you that will answer all your questions and some more!

Southern Italy is one of my favorite places to visit because there’s just so much to do here. Whether it is digging deeper into ancient Roman history at Pompeii and Herculaneum, strolling through the charming streets of Amalfi Coast towns, learning all about Sicilian Baroque in Ragusa Sicily , or seeing the pretty Trulli houses of Alberobello, Italy’s south has something for everyone.

With an endless list of attractive towns and cities to visit, Southern Italy makes for an amazing holiday destination. There’s no chance that you’ll ever get bored here! You’ll only want to come back again and again for more.

In this ultimate list of best places in South Italy , we talk about 25 amazing cities, UNESCO sites, coastal towns, and hidden gems. Please note that our list is divided by 5 different southern Italian regions with Campania being the most popular with the highest number of tourist attractions.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this post. This will be at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help me keep this website up and running. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

Top places to visit in Campania, South Italy

Editor’s choice

One of the most historic places to visit in Southern Italy is the UNESCO world heritage site of Pompeii. The ruins of this ancient Roman city tell a story that can move you to the core.

Once upon a time, Pompeii was a rich and prosperous trading town, set against the backdrop of Mt. Vesuvius on the Italian coast. On 24th of August, 79 CE, Vesuvius spewed fire, ash, and rock in the most fiery eruption in history engulfing the entire city of Pompeii and several others nearby.

More than 10,000 people were killed in the eruption. Houses and shops vanished under a thick layer of ash. Strangely, the ash also acted as a preserving agent and protected bodies, pottery, and even frescoes in the most unblemished form.

2000 years later, travelers can experience the life and culture of Pompeii by walking through the excavations and stepping into ancient villas, temples, marketplaces, and granaries. Some of the most iconic attractions are the public kitchens or the Thermopolia, the Garden of the Fugitives, the Villa of Mysteries, and the brothel or the Lupanar.

Getting to Pompeii : The best way to get to Pompeii is by train from Naples . Get off at the Pompeii Scavi train station, which is just 2 mins away from the main entrance of Pompeii archaeological site. With the coming of high-speed trains, Pompeii is also done as an easy day trip from Rome .

Herculaneum

Herculaneum (or Ercolano) is another Roman town like Pompeii that was buried during the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 CE.

Although Pompeii was a bigger town with more people, Herculaneum was the richer one. The abundance of luxurious mansions here speaks of Herculaneum’s opulence.

Some of the best things to see in Herculaneum are the baths or the Thermae, the House of Neptune and Amphitrite, and the warehouses called Fornici. The mosaic of Neptune in the dining room of the House of Neptune and Amphitrite is absolutely breathtaking.

Do not miss the Scroll’s Villa or Villa dei Papyri which is the most magnificent villa in Herculaneum. Apparently, it was owned by the Roman senator, Lucius Calpurnius who was also Julius Caesar’s father-in-law.

Getting to Herculaneum : The best way to visit Herculaneum is by taking a train from Naples. It is the same Circumvesuviana train that stops at both Ercolano (for Herculaneum) and Pompeii Scavi (for Pompeii).

Naples is one of Italy’s largest cities and the capital of the Campania Region. Once an important cultural center of the ancient Greek and Roman empires, the Naples of today is filled with historical and architectural wonders.

Explore the historic center of Naples (also a UNESCO heritage site) on a walking tour . Step into one of the city’s many beautiful cathedrals and visit the unending galleries of the archaeological museum. Be sure to join a guided tour of Naples’ underground city , an unmissable attraction. And do not forget to try some authentic Neapolitan pizza and flaky sfogliatelle. There’s lots of interesting stuff to do in Naples, even if you are visiting for one day .

Naples is often just used as a thoroughfare for Pompeii and never really explored. So, the next time you are in Southern Italy, do visit Naples because this city totally deserves a visit.

Getting to Naples : The easiest way to get to Naples is by Frecciarossa or Italo high-speed trains from Rome. Once you are in Naples, you can explore the historic center and the seaside by walking around or using buses and trams. You’ll find a handy map of Naples’ public transport network here .

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Be sure to add the small town of Ravello sitting atop a cliff overlooking the beautiful Tyrrhenian Sea on your Amalfi coast itinerary . With documented history dating back to the 9th century, Ravello is not only historically fascinating, but also incredibly romantic, charming, and less crowded than other popular towns in the Southern Italy region. 

Two of Ravello’s attractions that are absolutely worth your time are Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone. These villas date back to the 11th century, and showcase stunning gardens, as well as breathtaking views of the sea and coastline. The walk between the two villas is only 10 minutes, and is also very scenic, making it easy to explore both in just a few hours. 

After exploring the villas, enjoy lunch under lemon trees at Mimi Ristorante Pizzeria for some of the best pizza in the Amalfi Coast. They also specialize in limoncello, so you’ll definitely want to linger for  digestivo after your meal.

Getting to Ravello : The best way to get to Ravello is either by taxi or bus from Amalfi, which will take about 30 minutes. Taxis and buses will drop you off right at the main entrance to the town. From there, it’s only a 2-minute walk to the piazza. Once in Ravello, you’ll be able to walk everywhere, as it’s very small.

Paestum Greek Temples

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The Greek temples of Paestum are one of the most underrated UNESCO treasures in Italy.

Located in the Campania region about an hour and a half drive from Naples, this magnificent archaeological complex of Paestum has a cluster of well-preserved temples and city ruins. 

There are three main temples dedicated to Neptune and the goddesses Hera and Athena along with a spectacular museum that you can visit for frescoes panels and other artifacts excavated from the site.

Surprisingly, the park grounds are not jam-packed with tourists probably because of Paestum’s isolated location and relative obscurity. If you are in the Campania region of Southern Italy, place Paestum on your must-visit list of world heritage sites to see.

Getting to Paestum : The best way to travel to Paestum from Naples or anywhere in the Amalfi Coast is by car. If you are in Naples, you can also take the regional train which takes around 1hr 15mins to get to Paestum from Naples Central station.

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Sorrento is a beautiful small town in Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, in the Campania region. This glamorous stretch of coastline has long been thought of as the gateway to the Amalfi coast and a playground for the rich and famous and it’s easy to see why. Balmy Mediterranean weather, a sun-soaked coastline, stunning vistas and azure waters; Sorrento is the epitome of ‘la dolce vita’. 

There are many ways that you can enjoy your time in Sorrento such as taking part in the evening passeggiata along Corsa Italia, Sorrento’s main shopping street. You could maybe stop for a glass of wine and do some people-watching outside one of the many bars that line the street. Spend time at Villa Comunale, a small park with spectacular views over the Bay of Naples. You’ll be able to spot Mt. Vesuvius and the island of Ischia, making this is an excellent spot to watch the sunset.  

Sorrento isn’t known for its beaches. However, there are a handful of small public beaches and four beach clubs in Marina Piccola. The most popular beach club is Marameo beach. Marameo has sun loungers, cabanas, a hot tub, changing cabins, a great restaurant, canoes to rent and floating sun loungers.

Getting to Sorrento : Sorrento has great transport links and is only an hour away from Naples by train. There are also daily buses to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello and regular ferries to Capri. This makes Sorrento an excellent base for exploring the Amalfi coast. 

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Minori, Italy is a quiet beach village situated in the beautiful Amalfi coast region of southern Italy. It offers visitors a quieter retreat compared to several tourist hotspots nearby, like Amalfi and Positano. The village is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Minori is located at one end of the Path of Lemons, which is a lovely stone trail that winds through the high hills of the region. The path is lined by lemon trees and provides beautiful views of the beaches and sea below. The path also connects Minori with its sister town of Maiori. 

Minori features a small but peaceful beach area lined with cafes. One of the central landmarks of the town is the sunny yellow church, Basilica di Santa Trofimena. 

For history lovers, the Villa Romana e Antiquarium is another top attraction located nearby. The well-preserved ancient Roman Villa dates from the 1st century. It is small but includes interesting historic artifacts and restored tilework. 

Getting to Minori : You can get to Minori by train, car, taxi, or bus from Naples. You can take a 37min train ride from Naples to Salerno. And, then take a 20min taxi ride from Salerno to Minori. The town is about a 50min drive by taxi or car from Naples. The bus offers the cheapest alternative, but the ride takes about 2 hours from Naples. 

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Positano is easily one of the most sought after destinations in Southern Italy. Perched atop a cliffside along the Amalfi Coast, picturesque Positano offers breathtaking scenery with its colorful buildings and dramatic seaside location.

While the charming village of Positano offers a laidback vibe, it also provides a range of activities to suit various interests. From sun-soaked beaches, to charming boutiques, to incredible hiking opportunities like the Path of the Gods, there’s more to Positano than its postcard-perfect facade.

Although the famous cliffside village isn’t necessarily known for its history, there are some historic gems to be found here too. The Byzantine-style Church of Santa Maria Assunta is one of the town jewels, dating back to the 12th century.

Getting to Positano : Determining  how to get to Positano  will take some advance planning, as this Amalfi Coast village is not serviced by any airports and there are no direct train routes. However, there are a couple of different options available, including arranging a private transfer, taking a bus, doing a bus and train combination, or traveling by boat.

Best places to visit in the Campanian archipelago

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One charming and colorful island-town in Southern Italy is  Procida .

Enjoy the rich and uniquely wonderful Italian architecture in many of the buildings on Procida. From the Santa Maria Delle Grazie with its yellow coat of paint to the pastel-colored houses that rise just above the Mediterranean Sea, all make this town charming and special.

To view the unique residential architecture of Procida, head to the historic center, Terra Murata. You’ll find Casale Vascello which is a large courtyard surrounded by tall brightly colored terraced houses! 

Make sure to visit Abbazia di San Michele Arcangelo. It is a gorgeous Italian church with a decadent interior that is one of the best things to see in Procida.

A cultural gem on the island is Palazzo D’Avalos. There is an archaeological museum, an art gallery, and a beautiful Mediterranean garden, all on-site. Plus, those views over the distant bay of Naples are incredible. 

Whether visiting Procida as a day trip or staying on the island, there are plenty of great places to eat! From lovely cafes selling delicious coffee and pastries to restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Italian pasta and freshly grilled fish, Procida offers several options.

Getting to Procida : Visiting this stunning island is super easy with nearly 30 ferry trips a day directly from the Bay of Naples.

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The biggest island in the Bay of Naples, Ischia is also the most diverse. Best known for its thermal pools, this island has so much to offer the savvy visitor.

Ischia is blessed with both black and white sand beaches (as well as every other shade in between).

There are several amazing  things to do in Ischia  including hiking to the top of Monte Epomeo, exploring stunning botanical gardens, sipping on locally grown wines, visiting scintillating sunset spots, and discovering fascinating historical attractions.

Getting to Ischia : To get there, inexpensive ferries depart Naples port daily. For a little more, you can take the faster hydrofoil. In any case, the trip lasts from 50 mins to 1h 30min, so travel time doesn’t have to eat into your vacation.

Once you arrive on the island, you can get around by bus, water or regular taxis, or hire your own car or scooter. Driving in Ischia can take a little getting used to, so for a stress-free journey, perhaps choose one of the other options. 

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The island of Capri is located off the shores of the Amalfi Coast. It is a famous destination known for its beaches, glowing grottos, lemons, Caprese salad, and many famous visitors.

From Marina Grande, take a boat tour around the island to see the famous sights, the blue grotto, Via Krupp and the Faraglioni Rocks. Back on land, jump on the funicular up to Capri town. From there you can wander the cobblestone alleys and shop for handmade Italian leather sandals, where they make them to fit your foot.

When you get hungry, have lunch or dinner at Da Paolino . Enjoy a traditional Italian meal under a twinkling lemon grove, but be sure to book reservations several months in advance.

You can choose to stay on the mainland in a Amalfi town like Positano, and take a day trip from Positano to Capri for a wonderful day adventure. But, try to spend a few nights here as there’s so much to see and do.

The island shuts down many of its shops and restaurants during the winter, so you’ll want to visit between April and October.

Getting to Capri : It’s easy to get to by ferry from many of the Amalfi Coast towns, Sorrento or Naples.

Best places to visit in Sicily, South Italy

Val di noto.

Of all the places in Southern Italy, southeastern Sicily has my heart. And that is because, here, I get to visit the beautiful Baroque towns of Val di Noto.

A devastating earthquake struck Sicily in 1693 and many towns turned into rubble. The authorities decided to resurrect these places in a combined effort. This resulted in the creation of an exceptional group of 8 towns that displayed classic Sicilian Baroque components . They are the Late Baroque Towns of Val di Noto.

Built in late 17th century, these eight towns ( Ragusa , Modica, Noto, Scicli, Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, and Palazzolo), are now a UNESCO world heritage site. If you love art and architecture, you’ll love talking a walk through their historic centers. Modica is also famous for its unique chocolate that is still made in the traditional Aztec style.

Getting to Val di Noto : Take a bus (1.5 hours) from Catania Airport to Noto. This is the fastest way to get there. You can also take a train (cheapest) which takes about 3 hours.

Greek temples of Agrigento

There are many wonderful things to do in Sicily and one of them is visiting the Greek Temples of Agrigento on the west coast.

Agrigento or Akragas was once an influential Greek city. A strategic location on the Sicilian coast made Agrigento a powerful place even during Roman rule.

The Greeks built a number of Doric temples in Agrigento. The ensemble, that came to be known as the Valley of Temples, is now a UNESCO site and a beautiful stop on every Sicily itinerary . Some of Agrigento’s unmissable highlights are temples of Concordia, Heracles, Juno, and Dioscuri. Don’t miss the medieval Christian necropolises located behind the Temple of Concordia.

Getting to Agrigento : The best way to get to Agrigento is by regional train from Palermo Central to Agrigento Bassa station. The journey takes around 2 hours.

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If you are looking for a beautiful town to explore in  Sicily with kids , then look no further than Erice. Pronounced EH-richay, this 12th-century medieval village sits at the top of Mount Erice and overlooks the region of Trapani.

At 750 m above sea level, the village is surrounded by defensive walls with narrow cobblestone roads running through it. With a population of only about 300 permanent residents, Erice’s historical center is largely intact, clean, and well-kept.

There are public transit buses that run from Palermo to Erice several times daily, depending on the time of the year. You can also choose to drive to Erice, but you will only find a limited number of parking spots located just outside the city walls.

Once inside the walls, be sure to stroll the streets and admire the incredible architecture. With a beautiful church, amazing doorways, and historical courtyards, there are plenty of perfect places to grab that Instagrammable shot!

If you love to shop, Erice has many interesting little shops filled with locally made handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious sweets and pastries. Do not leave town without trying their signature marzipan fruit, almond biscuits, and pastries, or their incredible cannoli.

Getting to Erice : The easiest way to get to Erice is by car from Trapani (30 min drive). The most exciting way is to take the cable car from Trapani to Erice.

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The whole island of Sicily is worth exploring but if you need to focus on a single place, let it be  Taormina . 

The small town, located in northeastern Sicily, has it all. Ancient sights, a stunning coastline, great gastronomy, and a chilled vibe – you’ll find everything in Taormina.

The Old Town of Taormina stretches mid-way in a hill, between the gates Porta Messina and Porta Catania. Near Porta Messina, you can find the Ancient Greek Theatre from the 3rd century BC. It offers not just a unique trip to far-flung history, but also stunning views of Mount Etna in the distance and the Ionian Sea below. 

Beaches in Taormina are plentiful too. Accessing them is especially fun – by taking a cable car. Mazzaro beach is beautiful but packed. Instead, opt for Isola Bella Beach a little further away. The beach boasts a unique little islet that you can walk over to and explore for a small fee.

Getting to Taormina : You can get to Taormina easily from Catania – it’s only an hour-long drive. If you’d rather not drive in Europe , then you can take the bus or train.

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For many travelers to Sicily, Messina is the first city that they will see. For thousands of years, Messina served as an important port city and as a gateway to the Mediterranean. It remains so to this day.

Along with that storied history comes a great number of beautiful, historic buildings for you to discover. The Duomo has stood since its construction in 1551, and was actually designed by a young protege of Michaelangelo.

Climbing up to the top of Tempio Votivo di Cristo Re near the esplanade provides panoramic views of the entire city of Messina and the gulf. More beautiful buildings to explore include Chisea del Carmine, Campostano, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele III.

Messina is also known for its incredible wines, producing varietals that are rich in history and difficult to find elsewhere. You’ll find them served by the glass at nearly every little restaurant in town, but a nice option is to visit the vineyards themselves. Located just a short distance from the city limits, Cantine Maduado and Tanuta Enza La Fauci are both family-run vineyards that offer tours and tastings to the public with reservations.

Getting to Messina : As the third largest city in Sicily, Messina is easily accessible by public transit from other parts of Italy. The easiest way to get there is by flying into Catania Airport, about 100km away, and then taking a public bus.

Another more scenic option is to fly into Reggio Calabria Airport on the mainland, and then take the ferry across the Mediterranean Sea into the Port of Messina.

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Located on the northern coast of Sicily, Palermo is a beautiful city with a mountainous backdrop and the open sea on the other side.  Wandering the streets of Palermo, visitors can feel the culture within the colorful streets. 

A visit to Teatro Massimo, Italy’s largest opera house, is a must-do when in Palermo. Still in use, the opera house hosts a variety of events and tours, many of which spectators can purchase tickets for in advance . 

The Capuchin Catacombs has over 8,000 mummified bodies and their significance in Palermo’s history make the place worthy of a visit. 

Get a real taste of Italy here because the original Sicilian Pizza originated in Palermo. Traditionally, the square-shaped Sicilian pizza did not contain mozzarella but eventually evolved into the more modern style Sicilian pizza. 

Do not miss visiting Palermo’s beautiful beaches such as Mondello or Cefalu that invite visitors to take a dip in the crystal blue waters.

Getting to Palermo : The best way to get to Palermo from mainland Italy is to fly to Palermo International Airport. You can also reach Palermo by train by using the train ferry service that crosses the strait of Messina.

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South Italy is packed with places of breathtaking beauty, but there are few places yet to be discovered. If you want a small unspoiled refuge where the beaches are still wild and the skyline is still natural, don’t miss a visit to  Favignana, the best-kept secret in Sicily .

Although quite outside the international circuit, it is well known by Italian tourists who triple the population in the summer months, so you are not going to be alone there. This is also an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture in an authentic way.

By renting a bike, in one day, you can explore most of the enchanting bays and beaches (not to be missed Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra, and Bue Marino). However, the island is best appreciated if you dedicate a few days to it and savor its hidden beauty. Venture towards the slightly more secluded beaches such as Cala Preveto, stop for an aperitif by the sea at sunset, or visit the “giardino dell’impossibile” that recounts the history of the once great tuff quarries of the island.

Getting to Favignana : Favignana can be easily reached from Trapani by hydrofoil. About 30 minutes is all it takes. This makes it an extremely popular destination even for just a day trip.

Best places to visit in Basilicata, South Italy

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Located in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy, Matera has a long and rich history, dating back to the Paleolithic period. Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the oldest continually inhabited settlements in the world. The city is known for its unique architecture, which features cave dwellings that were carved into the rock formations of the surrounding hillsides.

Matera is best explored on foot by wandering the narrow streets and exploring the unique architecture of the renovated Sassi Barisano and preserved Sassi Caveoso areas.

Start your visit by learning the history of Matera at Casa Noha. You can also visit the unique Catholic church Chiesa di Santa Maria di Idris, the Duomo of Matera, and the MUSMA Museum of Contemporary Sculpture.

Getting to Matera : Matera is serviced by public transport but it is slower than other parts of Italy. The best public transportation option is to take a 1.5-hour train ride from Bari. There are also slower bus options from major cities. If you are short on time, renting a car is your best option. 

An obscure, little town in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy, Metaponto is often outshined by the more famous Matera. What everyone remains oblivious to is the fact that Metaponto was once built as a Greek city of defense. It is, therefore, home to the last remains of the famous Palatine Tables , a 6th-century BCE Greek temple dedicated to Hera and Apollo.

When in Metaponto, you can visit the Palatine Tables, explore the medieval castle, and check out the National Archaeological Museum.

Metaponto is home to only 1000 people and does not see many visitors. So, if you are looking for a quiet retreat in Italy’s south, Metaponto is the best place to be.

Getting to Metaponto : The easiest way to get to Metaponto from Matera is by driving – takes about 45 mins. You can also take a SITA SUD bus that runs 4 times during the day and gets you there in an hour or so.

Best places to visit in Apulia, South Italy

Polignano a mare.

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Perched on the cliffs looming over the emerald waters of the Adriatic Sea, Polignano a Mare is one of the best places to visit in Southern Italy. Its compact size makes it easy to wander around its maze-like narrow streets and be seduced by the poems written all over the quaint town’s walls, doors, and stone steps.

While walking around Polignano a Mare, you will find several spots with incredible views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The most popular among them is Terazza Santo Stefano.

However, the best thing to do in Polignano a Mare is to join a boat tour of the sea caves and enjoy the views from the water.

Getting to Polignano a Mare : Polignano a Mare is situated in the northern part of Puglia near Bari. It takes about an hour to get to Polignano a Mare from Bari by train or 40 minutes by car if you’re driving.

Alberobello

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Alberobello is a charming small town in the Puglia region of Southern Italy. It is best known for its Trulli houses, which were built without the use of mortar. Apparently, the reason behind choosing this unique building technique was to avoid paying high taxes: the locals would simply dismantle the dwellings when tax collectors came into the area. Now, that’s innovative!

Without a doubt, one of the  best things to do in Alberobello  is to stroll along the small streets while admiring the unique architecture of its Trulli homes. A guided Trulli tour is a great way to do it.

But you should also sample some of the local dishes like the popular Orecchiette pasta and the special Puglia cheese called Pallone di Gravina . Be sure to visit the unique Sant’Antonio Church with a conical roof.

Getting to Alberobello : Alberobello is a great idea for a day trip from Bari, the capital city of Puglia. It can be easily reached by car, bus, or train. However, out of these options, the train is probably the most comfortable one.

While the trains leave from Bari Central Station, you should be aware that the route is operated by Ferrovie Sud-Est and their ticket booth is not inside the actual station, but directly on the platform.

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Bari, Italy is the capital of Puglia and is best known for its gorgeous old town. Bari was once fortified with a wall that dates back to the 4th century BC, with a restored section still standing today. The city sits along the Adriatic Sea and you can see fisherman tenderizing octopus right on the rocks. 

The best thing to do in Bari is to wander its maze of shady, winding streets. You’ll see locals congregating outside shops conversing loudly or passing chairs to be arranged in a circle for friends and family to sit and chat.  

Bari is also an excellent foodie city with a specialty in focaccia, especially from Panificio Fiore. The signature pasta of the region is orecchiette , which you’ll see at local stalls and tourist shops in all sorts of colors.  Or course, it would be a mistake to leave Bari without eating any octopus, whether grilled, in a sandwich, or chopped in a salad.

Bari is the perfect base for several day trips, including seaside Polignano a Mare or the fascinating UNESCO towns of Matera and Alberobello.  

Getting to Bari : To reach Bari, you can either fly into Bari International Airport or take the train to Bari Centrale.  If you don’t plan to do much day tripping, a rental car is not necessary. However, the charming historical towns within Puglia are a road tripper’s dream, so renting a car is still recommended for longer Italy itineraries.

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When visiting southern Italy, most tourists keep close to the coast, looking for the most picturesque villages. However, there are treasures to be found inland too. Lecce’s nickname is the Florence of the south because of its rich Baroque architecture.

It’s a pleasure to wander its streets lined with the typical Lecce stone buildings. Lecce’s history goes back a long time, and you can still admire the Roman amphitheater in the heart of the city. The old part of the city is locked within the old city gates dating from the 16th century.

There are more  reasons to visit Lecce , besides the architecture. The city has a good vibe, with locals going out often and also an artsy feeling with boutique art shops almost everywhere. Add to that a great food scene, good weather and the proximity to not one, but both the Adriatic and the Ionian Sea and you have a great destination on your hands.

Getting to Lecce : The best way to get to Lecce is by flying into Brindisi Airport, which is just 25 miles away. From Brindisi, you can take a bus to Lecce.

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One of the best places to visit in Southern Italy is the beautiful coastal city of Monopoli, in the countryʻs Puglia region. This city does get tourists, but it is often overshadowed by other greats nearby (such as Polignano a Mare and Alberobello). However, you will find so many incredible  things to do in Monopoli  that it makes for the perfect base to explore the region!

If you are a beach lover and are visiting Monopoli during the warmer months, head to Porto Ghiacciolo. A long walk (or short drive) away from the city center, this beach sits at the foot of the Abbey of Santo Stefano, a castle that really makes for a unique setting! There is also a bar and a DJ here, making it a lively spot to spend the day. Another popular beach in Monopoli is Cala Porta Vecchia, a public beach that is located not too far from the center.

If you’re into history, be sure to check out the Monopoli Cathedral, the city’s old town, the views at Castello di Carlo, and the Il Bastione del Molino ruins right on the seafront. Before leaving Monopoli, be sure to grab dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants in the city, such as Komera, Cucina Nostra .

Getting to Monopoli : You can easily reach Monopoli by train from other places around the region and it is a short and direct train journey from Bari. The city is pretty walkable, so you will not need to rent a car or take public transportation (unless you are heading to Porto Ghiacciolo or somewhere further outside of the city).

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A breathtaking southern italy itinerary to see the best of italy’s south in a week.

A wonderful Southern Italy itinerary packed with UNESCO world heritage sites, stunning villages and beautiful coastal views! Easy to follow South of Italy road trip itinerary and recommended sto ps.

Southern Italy is one of the most beautiful yet underrated parts of the whole of Italy.

It is a land of shimmering sea and sandy beaches, of charming villages with unexpected architecture and cultural sites of worldwide fame.

However, it is a place still largely ignored by international tourism, that seems to stop around the area of Pompeii or flock to (stunning) Sicily .

We recently went on a road trip in the South of Italy and put a lot of research into its planning.

In this article, I share our best Southern Italy vacation itinerary , packed with the lessons learnt on the road!

This post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

Table of Contents

1 week South Italy itinerary at a glance

Day 1 : Trani and Castel del Monte (from Naples or Bari)

Day 2 : Alberobello, Locorotondo, Martina Franca

Day 3 : Matera

Day 4 : Matera

Day 5 : Paestum and Amalfi Coast

Day 6 : Amalfi Coast

Day 7 : Amalfi coast – return to Rome

How many days to visit Southern Italy?

Southern Italy is a broad term to encompass the whole of the Italian boot South of Rome so it is not possible to give an exact idea duration for a trip there.

Depending on what you want to see, you can easily spend a month here but since this is often not an option for a vacation (I know it wasn’t an option for us!), I selected the places I feel will give you the best experience.

They span across three regions, specifically Puglia, Basilicata and Campania.

This suggested itinerary for Southern Italy can be followed in as little as 4 days (if you don’t stop overnight between Matera and Rome, a 6h drive) and has an ideal length of 7 days .

Use this article to plan your own trip to Italy, pin it for later!

Southern Italy best places to see map

How to get to Southern Italy

The easiest ways to get to the South of Italy are plane and car.

The main gateway airports to the area are:

Bari airport : located in Puglia, the heel of the Italian boot, Bari airport gets a reasonable number of flights from several European countries and it a good getaway for the whole area.

This is a wonderful starting point for this itinerary because, as well as convenient, Bari is incredibly beautiful! You can find idea on things to see in Bari here and you will quickly see what I mean and why you should visit.

Brindisi airport – Located in Puglia again, Brindisi gets flights from other Italian cities and some European locations (mostly Ryanair). Please be advised that especially from some cities, these flights are seasonal.

Naples international airport – Naples has a well-served international airport that puts you in a good position to drive both to the South of Italy or towards Rome.

You can follow this itinerary from any of these airports.

The best way to get around Southern Italy

The best way to travel around the southern regions of Italy is by car .

Unlike the rest of the country, the South of Italy does not have a good train network and having access to a private vehicle is paramount.

You can rent a car in any of the airports mentioned above and my provider of choice is Avis Car Rental.

If you cannot drive, local buses serve most locations but the distances are long and the journey time will eat significantly into your time in the area.

You may have heard that driving in Italy is hard but please, do not let this discourage you! Indeed driving here is very different from what you may be used to back home but you can do it, if you know what to expect. You can find my tips for driving in Italy here.

Suggested itinerary for Southern Italy 7 days

This is my recommended itinerary for a self-drive trip to the South of Italy.

Day 1: Trani and Castel Del Monte

Our first stop for this Italian vacation was the lovely village of Trani , in Puglia.

This is a small and charming town on the Puglia/Apulian coast, on the Adriatic sea, the part of the Mediterranean that laps the shores of the East of Italy.

It is in the Bari area so it is easy to reach and a wonderful base to discover the area for a couple of days.

The star of the show here is the town duomo (church).

It sits right on the seafront and it is a vision of picture-perfect Mediterranean splendor, made of light-colored stone and shimmering sea!

Trani is well served with accommodation and restaurants and a pleasant stop for one or two nights.

I recommend spending 2 nights here to be able to enjoy this slow-paced town but also drive and visit nearby Castel del Monte.

Castel del Monte is a castle and citadel perched on a hill in the Trani / Bari/Andria area and it is worth a visit.

Dating back to the 13th century, it is now UNESCO world heritage site for it unique architecture dating back to the time of Emperor Federico II (Frederick the second).

For Trani and Castel del Monte I allocated two days to give you time to settle after arrival.

If you are short on time, you can visit each in half a day.

In Trani, you can stay at the wonderful Mare Resort for the night/s: their terrace restaurant is wonderful or you can drive to Alberobello and spend the night there (recommended)

Day 2: Alberobello, Locorotondo, Martina Franca

Our second stop is the charming city of Alberobello , a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the most photographed places in the whole of Italy due to its peculiar houses, ‘ i trulli ‘!

Alberobello is gorgeous and indeed unique: the trulli are round, whitewashed buildings with pointy roofs that are unique to this area and that give the town a wonderful fairy-tale village.

Originally poor dwellings, the trulli have now largely been refurbished and many have been turned into beautiful accommodation (we slept in one and loved it, you will find my recommendation below!)

Alberobello deserves a morning and is a good base to discover the area however, it is very touristy which is why we felt overall one night was enough.

Considering the affluence of large bus tours and what there is to see in Alberobello, I recommend you arrive in the late afternoon, spend the evening here (lovely and quiet) and explore early the morning after .

Leave before 11am/lunchtime, when mass tourism is at its peak.

After your morning in Alberobello, I recommend heading for lunch to the lovely town of Locorotondo , ten minutes drive away, and then take an extra stop in Martina Franca for an afternoon art-filled stroll before heading to Matera.

These are lovely and lesser-known places in Italy , full of charm.

In Alberobello, stay in the fabulous Trulli Anti Charme & Relax , simply wonderful (old trullo now converted into a stunning apartment)!

Day 3 and 4: Matera

Matera is less than two hours away from Alberobello but it is a world apart from anything else you have ever seen!

Located in Basilicata, a region both Italy and tourism seem to have forgotten for centuries have forgotten, Matera was nominated capital of culture for 2019 and is also Unesco World Heritage site.

The city deserved both nominations as it is truly stunning and unique.

It is entirely carved out of a mountain and its a maze of meandering alleyways, stunning churches and expansive views

The city is one of the oldest in the world, along Jericho and Aleppo, and is famous for troglodyte dwellings , rock churches and for being continuously inhabited since prehistoric times!

Nowadays, Matera is well suited to welcome tourists and is clean and rich with restaurants, hotels and wine bars where you can taste the delicious local food.

This is quite a contrast with the peculiar and hard history of its cave dwellings but the result is intoxicating and wonderful.

It is a place like no other and one that deserves at least two nights.

In Matera, stay at the perfectly located Casa del Sole apartments

Day 5 Paestum and Amalfi Coast

After Matera, our southern Italy itinerary turns back north and brings us to the third region we visited: Campania.

Campania is often and rightly mentioned for world-famous sites such as Pompeii, Herculaneum, the island of Capri and the Almalfi Coast but also has lesser knonw, amazing ones such as archaeological site of Paestum !

Paestum is a Greek settlement dating back to about 600 a.C that grew to be an important center in both Greek and then Roman times.

Nowadays, and is now a stunning archaeological site .

Here, beautiful temples lie on grassy fields and bear testimony of a grand past and a civilization usually only associated, in Italy, with the island of Sicily .

Paestum has some of the best preserved Greek temples in the world and is an absolute pleasure to visit.

You can reach it from Matera in about 3 hours and is well served with restaurants with lovely temples views.

You can easily spend a couple of hours here, letting the sun caress your skin, the temples mesmerize your eyes and the delicious local food fill your belly!

After Paestum, you can take the short drive to the Amalfi Coast. The easiest place to reach from Paestum will be Vietri, which is lovely or you can get a local ferry to almost any locality of your choice.

You can find our recommendations for the best places to base yourself on the Amalfi Coast here.

Day 5 and 6: Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi coast is an area of great natural beauty and you could easily spend a full vacation just here and never get tired of it!

However, if you only have few days you can still have a wonderful experience.

We usually base ourselved in the small and charming town of Minori and use the local ferry service to explore the area: Amalfi , Ravello, Positano and Salerno are all must see but the whole of it is beautiful!

Day 7: return to Rome or Naples

On day 7 you are likey to have to make your way back to a main center but you can still inlcude some cool stops.

Places you could see today are:

Pompeii or Herculaneum – Both within easy reach of this area.

Reggia di Caserta – a stunning castle, with Italian style gardens and priceless art

Cassino – famous for the Cassino Abbey (stunning) and for being the location of the Cassino battle in the II world war, Cassino is the perfect stop on your way to Rome for both location, cultural significance and visual impact.

Sperlonga – A lovely whitewashed village along the Tyrrhenian coast, Sperlonga is the perfect stop for a beach-side meal or a picture-perfect stop along the coast.

Gaeta – The small town of Gaeta packs a punch in terms of location and charm and with a wondergul sandy beach for a relaxing day

And of course Rome , which you won’t be able to see in half a day can be a wonderful city to explore if you have a few more days in Italy.

If you are unsure about how many night to spend in Rome and how to plan your time there , have a look at our full Rome vacation planning guide here or get in touch. I would be delighted to help!

I hope you enjoyed this Southern Italy itinerary and it gave you ideas of great places to add to your Italy bucket list .

Safe travels!

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Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

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The 6 Regions Of Southern Italy

Southern Italy is divided into 6 regions and is a part of Italy that always seems to be less discovered. That said when you start to look at some of the iconic places and attractions the area has to offer you have to wonder why.

I have always felt that Southern Italy lends itself to a road trip. All of Italy is a driving dream yet these undiscovered southern Italian towns, old fishing villages and beaches are just waiting to be discovered and explored by car.

There are the stylish towns of Capri and Positano offering the wow factor with their houses perched on the edge of cliffs overlooking the blue seas. Naples gives us mystery, mafia and charm and I have always associated it with football and Maradona. There is the great town of Sorrento perched on the cliffs and feeding down to the coast with its busy marina, charming streets and busy beaches.

These 6 regions of Southern Italy deliver an authentic taste of Italy coupled with that glorious Mediterranean sunshine.

Abruzzo is located in central Italy and is considered the greenest region of Italy. It stretches from the heart of the Apennines to the Adriatic Sea, on mostly mountainous and wild terrain. The region’s capital is L’Aquila.

L’Aquila is the region’s main art city and therefore has a cosmopolitan feel. However, very sadly the city is now more famous as having been rocked by a massive earthquake in 2009. The grandeur is gone and being rebuilt.

Attractions of the Abruzzo Region

Pescasseroli, Rivisondoli & Roccaraso – popular winter ski resorts.

Gran Sasso, Laga Mountains, and Mount Majella – are popular mountains, peaks and hills rich in history, traditions and art.

Aterno Valley – an area full of ancient villages and pretty scenery.

National Park of Abruzzo, the Park of Gran Sasso and the Laga Mountains – for species such as golden eagle, wolves and the Marsican brown bear.

Basilicata is located between Calabria and Apulia, in the south of Italy and is known for its forests and small charming villages that cover the mountainside. The region’s capital is Potenza.

Potenza is one of the highest regional capitals in Italy and overlooks the Basento valley. With a Roman history, the town hosts several historical sites and monuments. Potenza can be explored on foot since most attractions are limited to the centre of the town and with the roads here quite picturesque it makes walking around very enjoyable.

Attractions of the Basilicata Region

Monticchio Lakes – is one of the most spectacular locations in Basilicata.

Lake Grande and Lake Piccolo – are two splendid stretches of water that fill the two craters of the extinct Mount Vulture.

Metaponto and Policoro – coastal resorts offering wide sandy or pebble beaches.

The Gulf of Policastro – an area of coastal villages, small beaches and crystal-clear seas.

Calabria is at the toe of the boot, in the extreme south of Italy and separated from Sicily by the Strait of Messina. The capital of the region is Catanzaro.

Catanzaro is an old town with a beach and a little fishing port on a rock split into two parts by the steep Fiumarella valley. These two parts are connected by a huge concrete steel bridge of Viadotto Morandi –  one of the tallest one-arch bridges in Europe. There is a pedestrian walkway, the Strada dei Due Mari where you can enjoy fantastic panoramas of the region.

Historical monuments include the Duomo Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta and the Piazza Duomo.

Attractions of the Calabria Region

Reggio Calabria – a coastal city hosting the National Archaeological Museum

Cosenza – a town recognised for its spectacular beauty and history.

Crotone – a town popular for its panoramic location and  its classic Italian lifestyle

Campania is one of the regions of Southern Italy and stretches along the Tyrrhenian Sea, from the mouth of the Garigliano River to the Gulf of Policastro. It is well known for its beautiful coast, art, history and cuisine. The region’s capital is Naples.

I read an article about Naples and it was described as a tattered beauty… Naples is raw, it has a chequered history and even today it is not perfect but then perhaps that’s why it appeals to some more than any other Italian city. It is that rough diamond and the black sheep of the family.

Naples has its very own character and an old-world charm. Like many Italian cities though it is full of narrow cobbled streets, bars restaurants and galleries. Washing hangs up high down every side street and markets are bustling with shoppers touching feeling, smelling and discussing the fresh local produce.

Neapolitans, despite their dodgy reputation, welcome visitors like guests to their home and with so much to do both in the city and throughout the region of Campania it’s worth a visit! 

Sorrento is a small but popular resort perched picturesquely on a plateau above the sea with spectacular views over the Bay of Naples.

It has long been a favourite with British tourists as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast and it also has good train connections for a 30-minute transfer costing 2-3 euros to Pompeii and regular fast ferry connections to Naples and Capri. The Piazza Tasso is a delight and bordered by high-quality hotels, shops and restaurants. As well as the buzzing and historical town, there are the beaches, nearby traditional villages and rural walks through lemon and olive groves.

Attractions of the Campania Region

Capri – an island in Italy’s Bay of Naples, known for its rugged landscape, high-class hotels, shopping and its Blue Grotto.

Ischia – A short ferry ride from Naples, this small volcanic island is known for its thermal springs and mud baths.

Positano is one of the most beautiful cliffside villages in Italy. Artists, writers and singers are all attracted to the white houses and gardens.

Pompeii – the famous city buried by an eruption from nearby Mount Vesuvius in the year 79 AD.

Molise is situated in south-central Italy and is known for its nature, history, art, age-old traditions and good food. The region’s capital is Campobasso.

Campobasso was once famous for making cutlery but over time this has dwindled and replaced with paving tiles and soaps. The city has various historical sites of interest including the Castello Monforte with six towers of the medieval wall remains in the old town, where there are also the Romanesque churches of San Bartolomeo and San Giorgio.

Attractions of the Molise Region

The National Park of Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise – nature reserves ideal for walking and wildlife watching.

Campitello Matese and Capracotta – the area’s best-loved ski resorts

Puglia, a southern region forming the heel of Italy’s “boot,” is known for its whitewashed hill towns, centuries-old farmland and hundreds of kilometres of Mediterranean coastline. The region’s capital is Bari.

Bari is a gorgeous old town with a pretty bustling traditional harbour and some of Italy’s finest beaches nearby.

The old harbour is where the traditional fishing boats land their catches and sell their seafood straight off their boats. This is traditional Bari life and wonderful to witness. The atmospheric old town is called Bari Vecchio. Sitting on a peninsula overlooking the old harbour, this walled part of the city is full of narrow alleyways, cobbled streets and small piazzas, just begging to be explored.

The beaches in Bari start along the Longomare and keep on going while the harbour front Teatro Margherita, is one of the city’s most loved and iconic buildings and is now home to much of the city’s contemporary art scene.

Attractions of the Puglia Region

Lecce – an art city and Baroque jewel scattered with outstanding masterpieces and landmarks.

Gargano – the “spur of the Italian boot”  is home to pristine nature, wonderful beaches, charming villages, and olive and citrus groves.

Alberobello and Itria Valley – set in beautiful countryside this is the valley of quaint villages like Alberobello, Locorotondo and Cisternino.

Ostuni – the “White City” due to its whitewashed houses.

Tremiti Islands – a nature reserve of five islands. This is a diver’s paradise as the only archipelago in the region.

Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve – a natural oasis and protected sea area.

Castel del Monte – a castle built by Emperor Frederick II in the XIII century and the region’s most visited monument.

Castellana Caves – a huge group of underground caves which are considered the most spectacular in Italy

Salento – an area of white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters nicknamed “the Maldives of Italy”.

Contact Information

For further information on taking a trip to any region of Italy or Europe, contact your local travel agent, a specialist tour operator or the Italian National Tourist Office.

If you are interested in the North Of Italy why not check out my recent Italian Adventure taking in the best cities and lakes between Venice and Bergamo. .

Mykonos: Picture Perfect But Pricey

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15 Best Things to See in South Italy

Are you looking for the best things to see in south Italy?

Italy is a country that boasts an incredible wealth of cultural and artistic heritage, spanning thousands of years. While many travellers are drawn to the well-known cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice, the southern regions of Italy are also home to a plethora of attractions that should not be missed. 

From ancient archaeological sites to stunning natural landscapes and delicious cuisine, southern Italy has something for every traveller.

This guide gives you 15 outstanding things to see in southern Italy with plenty of ideas for every type of traveller. Whether it’s your first-time visit or you’re exploring more of the country, I’m confident you’ll love some of these great ideas.  

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

Travelling to Italy – Know Before You Go

Before planning your trip to Italy, there are some things you’ll need to check.  It’s important to note that most non-European Union citizens require a travel visa to enter Italy. 

The application process can take several weeks, so it’s advisable to start early. Once you’ve secured your visa, you’ll be ready to explore the following attractions in southern Italy.

15 Outstanding Things to See in South Italy?

There are a ton of things to see in southern Italy, so we’ve put together this shortlist of south Italy highlights. We’ve included UNESCO sites, ruins, stunning road trips, and beautiful landscapes. Which ones are you going to visit? 

Pompeii is located near Naples. These famous ruins are of an ancient Roman city. The city was buried by ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. They date back to 79 AD and because they were buried for hundreds of years, have preserved what life was like back then

Today, visitors can wander through the remarkably well-preserved ruins and gain a glimpse into life in ancient Rome. Highlights include the amphitheatre, the Forum, and the House of the Faun, which features a stunning mosaic floor.

The Amalfi Coast

Driving the Amalfi Coast is often top of lots of people’s Italian bucket lists. It’s one of the most scenic stretches of coastline in the world, with its colourful villages perched on steep cliffs overlooking the azure Mediterranean Sea.

Visitors can explore the charming town of Positano, sample fresh seafood in the fishing village of Cetara, or take a boat tour to the stunning island of Capri.

Matera Matera

Located in the southern region of Basilicata, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its ancient cave dwellings, or “sassi,” were once home to the city’s poorest residents but have now been transformed into chic boutique hotels and restaurants. 

The city was also designated as a European Capital of Culture in 2019.

The Trulli of Alberobello

The town of Alberobello is famous for its unique conical buildings, known as trulli. These traditional structures, made from limestone without the use of mortar, were built by peasants in the 14th century as a way to avoid paying property taxes. 

Today, visitors can wander through the town’s narrow streets and admire the unique architecture.

The Cilento Coast

The Cilento Coast, located in the Campania region, is a rugged and wild stretch of coastline that offers stunning views and pristine beaches. Visitors can explore the seaside town of Palinuro, hike through the rugged hills of the Cilento National Park, or sample local delicacies such as buffalo mozzarella and cured meats.

The Greek Temples of Paestum

The ancient Greek city of Paestum, near the town of Salerno, is home to some of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. These stunning structures, including the Temple of Hera and the Temple of Neptune, date back to the 6th and 5th centuries BC and offer a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region.

The Royal Palace of Caserta

The Royal Palace of Caserta, which is close to Naples, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and was once the residence of the Bourbon kings of Naples. The palace boasts over 1,200 rooms, including a grand ballroom and a stunning garden that spans over 120 acres.

The Aeolian Islands

The Aeolian Islands, just off the coast of Sicily , are a group of volcanic islands that offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history. Visitors can hike to the summit of the active volcano on Stromboli, relax on the black sand beaches of Vulcano, or explore the picturesque town of Lipari.

If you’re eager to go island hopping, but you’re in the west of Sicily , then I recommend the Egadi Islands instead. It’s one of the best things to see near Trapani .

The Valley of the Temples

One interesting fact about Sicily is that it’s home to some of the best Greek ruins outside of Greece. The Valley of the Temples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that can be found in the city of Agrigento in Sicily. 

This archaeological site features a collection of ancient Greek temples, including the Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved Doric temples in the world. Visitors can also explore the ruins of the ancient city of Akragas and learn about the rich history of Greek civilization in Sicily .

The Baroque Architecture of Lecce

The city of Lecce, situated n the Puglia region, is known as the “Florence of the South” thanks to its stunning Baroque architecture. Visitors can explore the ornate churches and palaces that line the city’s streets, including the Basilica di Santa Croce, which features intricate carvings and sculptures.

The Tratturi of Molise

The Tratturi of Molise is a series of ancient roads that were used for the seasonal migration of sheep from the mountains to the plains. Today, visitors can hike along the well-preserved paths and explore the picturesque towns and villages that dot the countryside.

The Blue Grotto of Capri

The Blue Grotto is a sea cave located on the island of Capri that is famous for its brilliant blue waters. Visitors can take a boat tour into the cave and marvel at the iridescent hues created by the reflection of the sunlight on the water. Be sure to put this on your Italy bucket list . 

The Taranto National Archaeological Museum

The Taranto National Archaeological Museum, located in the city of Taranto in Puglia, is home to an impressive collection of ancient relics from the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras.

Highlights include the famous gold artefacts from the tomb of the “Warrior of Taranto” and the collection of ancient Greek pottery.

The Matera Bread Festival

The Matera Bread Festival is an annual event that takes place in the city of Matera in September. The festival celebrates the traditional bread-making techniques of the region and features demonstrations, tastings, and workshops.

The Salento Wine Region

The Salento Wine Region, located in the heel of Italy’s boot, is known for its excellent wines, including the Primitivo di Manduria and the Negroamaro. Visitors can take wine tours and tastings at the many vineyards and wineries in the region and learn about the rich history of winemaking in Puglia.

What Are You Going to Visit in Southern Italy?

Southern Italy is a region full of culture, history, and incredible sights to see. Whether you’re looking for ancient ruins or modern attractions, it has something to offer everyone. 

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, check out these other useful articles.

• The Ultimate Italian Bucket List
• The Amalfi Coast Road Trip In Italy
• The Best Things To Do In Trapani, Sicily
• What to Pack for Italy & How to Prepare

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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Which capital is located the furthest south?

Travel Destinations

May 29, 2023

By Kristy Tolley

Which Capital is Located the Furthest South?

Determining which capital is located the furthest south can be a challenging task, given that the southern hemisphere encompasses a vast expanse of land and water. Nevertheless, this question has intrigued scholars, adventurers, and geographers for centuries. South of the Equator, there are several countries and territories that claim to have the southernmost capital, and each has its unique set of attributes that define its position.

Defining the Southernmost Point on Earth

Before identifying the southernmost capital, it is essential to understand how the southern hemisphere is defined. The term ‘southern hemisphere’ refers to the half of the Earth’s surface that lies south of the Equator. The southernmost point on Earth is the South Pole, located at the southern end of the Earth’s axis. The South Pole is situated in Antarctica, a continent that sits at the southernmost point on the planet.

The Geographical Features of Southern Capitals

Southern capitals are characterized by a unique set of geographical features that distinguish them from other cities. Some of these features include mountain ranges, vast plains, coastal regions, and island chains. These features define the natural beauty of southern capitals and often attract tourists from around the world. Southern capitals also have diverse topography, ranging from fjords and glaciers to deserts and grasslands.

Antarctica: The Southernmost Continent

Antarctica is the southernmost continent on Earth and the location of the South Pole. It is an uninhabited continent, with no permanent population and no countries claiming sovereignty over it. Despite its harsh climate and challenging terrain, Antarctica has a unique ecosystem that supports a diverse range of wildlife, including whales, seals, and penguins.

The Southern Capitals of South America

South America is home to several southern capitals, including Montevideo (Uruguay), Buenos Aires (Argentina), and Santiago (Chile). These cities are renowned for their rich history, cultural diversity, and vibrant nightlife. They are also known for their impressive architecture, with many colonial-era buildings still standing today.

The Climate of Southern Capitals

The southern hemisphere is characterized by a range of climates, from tropical to sub-Antarctic. Southern capitals experience a range of climates, with some cities experiencing hot summers and mild winters, while others have cold, snowy winters. In general, southern capitals in South America have a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers.

The Culture and History of Southern Capitals

Southern capitals have unique cultures and histories that reflect their geographical, political, and economic contexts. Many southern capitals have a strong colonial heritage, which is reflected in their architecture, cuisine, and cultural practices. Others have been shaped by more recent political and social movements, such as the struggle for democracy in Chile or the impact of the Falklands War on Argentina.

The Economic Importance of Southern Capitals

Southern capitals play a crucial role in their respective countries’ economies, serving as centers of trade, commerce, and industry. Many southern capitals have thriving tourism industries, attracting visitors from around the world to experience their natural beauty and cultural heritage. Southern capitals are also important hubs for transportation, with many major airports, seaports, and railway stations located in these cities.

The Political Significance of Southern Capitals

Southern capitals often play a significant role in national politics, serving as the seat of government and the location of key government institutions such as parliaments and courts. These cities are also important centers of political and social activism, with many grassroots movements and civil society organizations based in southern capitals.

The Population of Southern Capitals

Southern capitals vary in population size, with some cities having populations in the millions and others having only a few thousand residents. Despite their varying sizes, all southern capitals have diverse populations, with people from different ethnic, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds living together in these cities.

Conclusion: Which Capital is the Furthest South?

Given the vast expanse of the southern hemisphere, identifying the southernmost capital is not a straightforward task. However, of the southern capitals of South America, the capital of Chile, Santiago, is the furthest south. Santiago is located at 33°27’S, which is the highest latitude of any capital city in South America.

Final Thoughts on Southern Capitals

Southern capitals are remarkable cities that offer a unique perspective on the world. They are defined by their geographical, cultural, and political contexts, and each has its own set of attributes that make it a special place. Whether it is the stunning natural beauty of southern Africa or the rich history and vibrant culture of South American capitals, these cities offer a glimpse into the diversity and complexity of the southern hemisphere.

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Kristy Tolley

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9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

 Sir Francis Canker/Getty Images

In most cases, you'll be entering Red Square from the north, passing landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre and Duma parliament building as you make your way southward. Although you don't necessarily have to pass through the Voskresensky (or Resurrection in English) Gates in order to gain access to the square these days, they definitely provide a sense of arrival, to say nothing of the way their left arch frame's St. Basil's Cathedral if you look from just the right angle.

An interesting fact is that while a gate of some kind has stood here since the mid-16th century, the one you currently see wasn't built until 1994, having been destroyed in 1931 so that tanks could enter and exit Red Square during military parades.

St. Basil's Cathedral

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Few sights are as iconic not only of Moscow and Red Square but indeed of Russia than St. Basil's Cathedral, whose colorful, onion-shaped domes are a symbol of the country around the world. Officially known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, this church has stood since 1561, which is quite miraculous when you consider all the turbulent history that has transpired since then.

Among other things, religion was severely prohibited during the Soviet period , which led some to believe that this emblem of the Russian Orthodox church might not withstand the tenure of the USSR. 

An interesting fact is that St. Basil's is the so-called "Kilometer Zero" of Russia; all of Moscow's main roads (which can take you anywhere in Russia) begin at the exits to Red Square. In this way, St. Basil's iconic status also has an extremely tangible element.

The Kremlin

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

When you think of The Kremlin, it's unlikely that positive images enter your mind. The fact that simply saying the word "Kremlin" is too vague a descriptor (most Russian cities have their own Kremlin complexes; you should say "Moscow Kremlin") notwithstanding, this misunderstood place is incredibly beautiful, even if you don't like the policy that comes out of it.

Senate Square

In spite of its name, which refers to the role the building that rises above the square played during Imperial Russia, Senate Square is actually home to Russia's presidential administration, currently helmed by Vladimir Putin. In order to see where Russia's legislature operates from, walk just outside Red Square to the Duma parliament building.

Dormition Cathedral

Dating back to the year 1479, the gold-domed Dormition Cathedral pays homage to an Orthodox religious feast that commemorates the death of the Virgin Mary . As is the case with St. Basil's, it is curious that such a conspicuously religious structure was able to survive through the Soviet period.

Armoury Chamber

Though it takes its name from the fact that it housed Russia's royal arsenal when it was built in the 16th century, the most notable resident of the Kremlin's Armoury Chamber today is the Russian Diamond Fund.

Notable Kremlin Towers

Robert Schrader

The interior of the Moscow Kremlin is more beautiful and inviting than you'd expect, but the walls and towers that rise around it better live up to the intimidation with which the complex is associated. 

Borovitskaya Tower

Named to commemorate the dense forest that once stood atop the mount where it's built, this tower is extremely picturesque. Built in the late 15th century, it's visible from most places in the square, and also as you walk along the Moskva River.

Nikolskaya Tower

Also built in the year 1491, this tower currently suffered destruction at the hands of Napoleon's army in the 19th century. What you see now is the result of an 1816 re-design and renovation, though artillery fire during the Russian Revolution also caused superficial damage to the tower, named to honor St. Nikolas of Mozhaysk , so it's difficult to know which elements of it are original.

Spasskaya Tower

Known in English as the "Savior's Tower," this iconic, star-topped tower is perhaps the best-known of all the Kremlin's towers. Built in 1491 like the other two towers on this list, it's certainly the most photographed. As a result of its proximity to St. Basil's, it often makes its way into tourists' pictures.

Mausoleum of Lenin

Just as it's strange to learn how many religious monuments survived through the Soviet period, it's a bit odd to think that Lenin's preserved body still sits in a mausoleum just beneath the walls of the Kremlin on Red Square, given the lack of consensus about the ultimate impact of his Revolution, even in Russia.

It's not guaranteed that you'll be able to see the body (which, believe it or not, seems to be improving with age ) when you go, and if you do you will likely have to wait in line, but even strolling past the outside of the Lenin Mausoleum, flanked by stone-faced guards that almost look like statues, illuminates the gravity of his body still being here.

GUM Shopping Center

You might cringe, at least initially, when you realize that one of the most iconic stops on a tour of Red Square is a department store—until you see said department store, that is. Built in 1893 and known during Soviet times as the State Department Store, GUM  ( Glávnyj Universáľnyj Magazín​ or Main Universal Store in English) hearkens back to the grandeur of the late 19th century, both seen from the outside (especially, when lit up at night) and the interior, which might have you feeling like you're further west in Europe.

A trip inside GUM is a particularly good idea during winter, when frigid temperatures outside will have you savoring the heat, the quality of souvenirs, confections and other goods sold inside notwithstanding. Also, make sure not to confuse GUM with CDM, which sits near the Bolshoi Theatre, even though both are stunning and iconic in their own right.

State Historical Museum

The Russian State Historical Museum is located near Voskresensky Gates, though you should wait until after you've seen the first few attractions of Red Square and the Kremlin to head back there and go inside. To be sure, as you pass by its facade (whose late-19th century grandeur somewhat obscures that fact that it's currently a museum accessible to the public) you might not even think to try and gain entry.

Once inside the museum, you can plan to spend at least a couple of hours, given that artifacts here date back to the very beginning of the Russian state in the ninth century. As is the case with GUM, this will be a particularly alluring prospect if you visit in winter, when Moscow is arguably at its most beautiful, but certainly at its least tolerable. 

Minin-Pozharsky Monument

It's somewhat easy to disregard this monument, which pays homage to the two Russian princes who ended the so-called "Time of Troubles" in the mid-16th century, during which Polish-Lithuanian forces occupied Russia, among other awful things including a famine. That's because the statue currently sits just at the base of St. Basil's Cathedral, which makes it very difficult to photograph or even see without being overwhelmed by that much more famous edifice.

Though the statue originally sat at the very center of Red Square, it came to be an obstacle to the movement of tanks during the Soviet period, much like the Voskresensky Gates. As a result, authorities moved it during that time, and it's stayed where you currently find it ever since.

Kazan Cathedral

Taken by itself, the smokey-pink Kazan Cathedral is an architectural marvel; originally built in the 17th century, the church you find here today, located just north of the GUM department store, dates back only to 1993.

Unfortunately, since it sits not only in the shadow of GUM, but also in the shadow St. Basil's and the Towers of the Kremlin, it's easy to miss entirely if you aren't looking. As a result, you might wait until you've seen just about everything else in Red Square before coming here to take photos, and to appreciate the understated beauty of this oft-overlooked cathedral.

Moskva River

As you head south from St. Basil's Cathedral to exit Red Square, make sure to walk onto Bolshoy Moskvoretskiy Bridge, which crosses the Moskva River. If you look due north, you can get an excellent shot of the church framed, on the left, by the towers of the Kremlin. Directing your gaze a bit to the west allows you to see the skyscrapers of Moscow City as they rise above the Kremlin's walls.

Walking westward along the riverbank is also a worthwhile excursion, for the views it provides of Red Square and the Kremlin, as well as the fact that doing so takes you to other iconic Moscow attractions, including Gorky Park and the Pushkin Museum. The views you enjoy from the river and the bridge are particularly stunning at night, though you should make sure you bring a tripod if you want to get a clear picture, given how strong winds over and near the river can be.

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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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When visiting Russia's capital, the Kremlin is certainly among the must-see places. The oldest and most prominent part of Moscow used to be the tsars' residence, and is the seat of Russian government up to the present day. A large portion of the premises is accessible for tourists. Through a number of museums and churches you get to discover Russian culture and history.

Cathedral Square

The architectural ensemble of Cathedral Square covers the largest part of the complex. Upon entering you see the famous Tsar Bell and Tsar Cannon. If you don't want to visit all five of the cathedrals, the one you should not miss is Cathedral of the Dormition . It is Moscow's most ancient building, and used to be venue for tsars' coronations over centuries.

Various Museums and Exhibitions

Kremlin is also home to a number of museums and exhibitions. The most famous among them is the Armoury Museum . It holds more than 4000 exhibits that transport you back to the tsar era. It includes the State Regalia, coronation dresses, gold and silver artwork, as well as ancient carriages and weapons. Another impressive exhibition is the Diamond Fund, located inside the same building. Here you can admire Catherine the Great's Great Imperial Crown , adorned with 5000 diamonds.

If you still have time, there is a permanent exhibition on Russian culture from the 17th century located inside Patriarch Palace. Furthermore, there are temporary exhibitions inside Ivan the Great Bell Tower . Being the Kremlin's highest tower, it is also open as an observation point. Its climb presents you with a view of the entire Kremlin area. The Ceremonial Mounting Parade of Horse and Foot Guard of the Presidential Regiment is another special experience. It takes place every Saturday from April to October at 12 pm. After you have visited all of the museums and churches, Kremlin gardens are a good place for a little relaxation.

Further Parts of the Premises

Some parts of the Kremlin can only be accessed under certain conditions. Grand Kremlin Palace is part of the president's residence, and may only be entered upon the president's invitation, or within a private tour (from €153 per person). State Kremlin Palace is home to a concert hall. You can attend events there with a respective ticket. The presidential and administrative buildings are entirely off-limits to tourists.

Historical Information

The Moscow Kremlin is the most ancient part of the city , and considered the symbol of Russian statehood. It looks back upon a long and eventful history. Its building was initiated by Alexander I in 1806. From then on it went through periods of growth and development, as well as periods of evacuation and struggle for saving the national treasures stored inside its halls.

In 1991, the Kremlin has been granted UNESCO World Cultural Heritage status .

How to get there

The Kremlin is located in Moscow's centre, right by the river Moskva. Ticket offices are situated on the southwestern side, only a few steps from Aleksandrovsky Sad metro station.

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Moscow’s Top 13 – The Main Attractions of the Russian capital

13 Moscow Attractions

One of the most fascinating metropolis, breathtaking city, and a vibrant European capital, Moscow is a powerful mix of history and edginess, full of world famous sites and attractions that are worth exploring. However, it would take weeks to really explore all facets of the Russian capital – unfortunately hardly any traveler has that much time, which is why you should concentrate on the absolute Moscow top attractions and highlights. Here is the list of top 13 Moscow attractions you can choose on your next Russian travel journey.

What Times Square means to New York, Pariser Platz with the Brandenburg Gate to Berlin, or Trafalgar Square to London – Red Square means to Moscow. The heart of Russia’s capital it is the central meeting point and the most famous photo opportunity. No place stands for Russia and Moscow more than “krasnaja ploshchad”, as Red Square is called in Russian.

It is arguably one of the Moscow main attractions and most visited. With the gigantic military parade on Victory Day in World War II, which takes place every year on May 9, the pictures of the square go around the world year after year. But for the rest of the year you will mainly meet local and foreign tourists here, who take peaceful pictures and soak up the unique spirit. The square looks spectacular illuminated at night, but you should visit the square at least once in daylight as well.

If you stand in the middle of the huge cobblestone square, in the clockwise direction you can see the Kremlin and the Kremlin Wall with a total of 20 individually designed towers, Lenin’s Mausoleum, Historical Museum built with red bricks, the little Kazan Cathedral, the impressive luxury department store GUM, the imposing St. Basil’s Cathedral and, the bridge over the Moskva River. This unique ensemble offers more sightseeing highlights at one stroke than any other tourist attractions in Moscow or the world.

So it’s no wonder that Red Square is UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers the most popular photo opportunities worldwide. When visiting Moscow, there is no reason not to visit to Red Square and a selfie is practically also a must – getting there is easy even for Russia newcomers. Although Red Square does not have its own metro station, it is still child’s play to find the way there – especially since the Square is the absolute geographical center of the city.

There are four metro stations in the vicinity, from which it is only a short walk to Red Square, Okhotny Ryad and Teatralnaya directly at the northwest entrance of the Square at the Historical Museum; further to the west is the Lenin Library station, from which one arrives at the same entrance through the Alexander Garden. As well as the station Revolution-square behind the GUM department store, which leads past to the northeast side of the Square.

The Kremlin

This is the biggest active fortress in Europe offering a week’s worth of attractions. For more than 70 years, the Kremlin was the power center of the Soviet Union, which the US President Ronald Reagan called the Empire of Evil exactly 35 years ago, one of the symbols of the East-West conflict in the Cold War. People in the West feared the «dark» plans that were built behind the thick walls of the Kremlin.

The Kremlin is built in a triangular shape on the natural elevation above the Moscow River, known today as the Kremlin Hill. Today’s metropolis Moscow has expanded in a circle around it and the road around the Kremlin is considered the first of several ring roads in Moscow counting.

Now Kremlin has lost its terrifying image, although it is still the seat of the Russian President and thus one of the most important places in World political events. It is an inviting, historical sight for tourists, and one of the famous Moscow tourist attractions which can be visited for just a few dollars.

The large parts of the 28 hectare site can be visited by tourists – with the exception of the Kremlin towers, the presidential Grand Kremlin Palace and the Senate Palace. The first port of call on the site is the so-called Cathedral Square, which is the geographical center of the Kremlin and at the same time the highest point on the Kremlin Hill and contains the three oldest structures in the complex. The three 15 th -century cathedrals of the Kremlin (the Dormition, Archangel Michael and the Annunciation Cathedrals), which together with the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the Cathedral of the Deposition of Mary, make the most famous ensemble of the Kremlin. Also to be visited here are primarily the Armoury and the Patriarch’s palace.

To get to the Kremlin, you have to pass a security gate at one of the two publicly accessible entrances – these are located at the Kutafja and Borovitsky towers. Tickets cost from 700 rubles upwards, the admission to the Armoury, the Ivan the Great bell tower and the Patriarch’s Palace being paid for separately.

More about the Kremlin

Lenin’s Mausoleum

This is the ultimate love it or hate it tourist attractions in Moscow It may be mistaken for a gloomy performance, but Lenin remains an absolute attraction almost a hundred years after Vladimir Lenin death. The founding father of the Soviet Union is not only a fascinating historical figure of world renown for supporters of communism. Despite ongoing discussions about a final burial of the leader of the communist October Revolution in 1918, hundreds of thousands come year after year to the dark marble building on Red Square, right next to the Kremlin wall, to see the embalmed body of the legendary Russian revolutionary.

First opened to the public in 1924, the Mausoleum attracts 2.5 million visitors every year, so, visitors have to wait a long time to get into the illustrious building. Also, photos from inside the Mausoleum are prohibited. But a visit is still a must for Moscow visitors, especially since the visit is free. Please note that the Mausoleum is only open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The queue starts behind the Historical Museum and before you get into the actual mausoleum, you have to pass an airport-like security gate – cameras and cell phones are not allowed into the Mausoleum, but can be safely placed in a cloakroom for a small fee. On the way out of the Mausoleum, after the visit, you pass the graves of the other Soviet heads of state. Including the grave of Josef Stalin, who was briefly kept next to Lenin in the Mausoleum after his death. But in the course of de-Stalinization, the cruel dictator was moved to the less prominent place behind the Mausoleum.

More about the Lenin Mausoleum

The Alexander Garden (Alexandrovsky Sad)

If you visit Moscow in summer, the hustle and bustle in the metropolis of millions can get over your head. The city, best known for its icy winters, can turn into an absolute burning furnace in summer. It sometimes takes over an hour to get to the edge of the metropolis. The perfect retreat, located in the center of Moscow, is therefore the Alexander Garden and one of the Moscow top attractions.

Located directly on the western wall of the Kremlin, the Alexander Garden is just a small, but all the more well-kept park that extends to the nearby Manege Square (Manezhnaya Ploschad). The garden undergoes a lot of changes, with old trees cut down in 2012 and over 200 planted, the authorities also claim that there will be a rosary of 3000 roses. As soon as the first rays of sun warm up the Muscovites, tormented by the long winter, they set off into the countryside. If you are right in the center, you can choose the small park right by the Kremlin.

With a café in hand, which you can get yourself on Manege Square, you can linger here between the carefully tended flower beds. With the Grave of the Unknown Soldier and the regular changing of the guard, there is even a real tourist attraction on top. Entry is free.

The Moscow Metro

In no other metropolis in the world would the subway be declared a sight. Yes, that is truly right as riding this one of the top Moscow tourist attractions is an experience in itself or just a walk through the station is amazing in itself. Whether in New York, Berlin, London or Paris – the big city inhabitants of the world metropolises have a love-hate relationship with their metro. It’s different in Moscow – the residents of the Russian metropolis love their metro and there is a reason for that: in the early days of metro construction, dictator Stalin had built the stations into “palaces for the workers”.

All the splendor of the tsars, which the ordinary Russian never saw, is now open to everyone, regardless of their origin. Indeed, a number of stations on the Moscow Metro, each built shortly before or after the war, are unmatched architectural masterpieces. Mayakovskaya station is often compared to a ballroom for its chandeliers and ornaments. The Teatralnaya stop, located directly below the world-famous Bolshoi Theater, shines with decorations reminiscent of the country’s theater and ballet tradition. Colorful glass windows, almost like in a sacred building, adorn the Novoslobodskaya station.

But the uncalled queen among Moscow’s metro beauties is Komsomolskaya station, named after the youth organization of the Soviet Union. With its huge chandeliers and detailed ceiling decorations, it is the crown jewel among the 331 metro stations. It is not uncommon for tourists to stand in the middle of the platform and take photos under the glances of passengers who just want to walk past the annoying tourists to and from work as quickly as possible.

A ride on the metro currently costs 57 rubles, which is less than one dollar. You should plan a few hours for a tour of the most beautiful stations, but the good news is, once behind the turnstile, a single ticket is enough to stay in the metro system as long as you want.

The Bolshoi Theater

To see Tchaikovsky Swan Lake or the Nutcracker by the same legendary Russian composer on the famous Bolshoi stage – that is the dream of every ballet fan. Home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, nowhere else is the fine art of musical dance lived as much as in Russia – and has been since the times of the tsars.

The Bolshoi itself has been shining back to its former glory since it was built in 1776 since its extensive renovation that cost almost a billion dollars a few years ago. The large historical hall of the building impresses with its opulent golden decorations and creates a very special atmosphere – this was also used by the communist leaders of the Soviet Union, who held their congresses in the building directly at the Kremlin. The Theater is so famous that it currently adorns the 100 ruble banknote and is among the Moscow main attractions.

If you’d like to go to what is probably the most famous ballet theater in the world today, it’s easier than ever. The program can be found months in advance on the official website bolshoi.ru  and can be ordered at very reasonable prices. The cheapest seats in the hall can be booked for as little as 100 rubles, i.e. less than $ 2. However, you should reserve tickets early, as the performances are usually booked weeks in advance. Even for good seats, you pay very moderate prices compared to Western Europe.

There are a few things to watch out for, however, proper, appropriate clothing is welcome, but apart from the obligation to wear trousers, it is not an exclusion criterion for men. If you arrive late, you have to wait outside until the next break so as not to disturb the other guests during the performance. The best way to get to the Bolshoi is by taking the Moscow Metro via the Teatralnaya station, which was built especially for the theater and which stairs are right in front of the main entrance.

More about the Bolshoi Theater

The GUM department store

The Russian abbreviation GUM means main all-purpose shopping center and sounds quite formal for such a shopping temple. Located in front of the Kremlin on Red Square, GUM has existed as a department store since 1920 and was previously a market. It is the most iconic and largest department store in Russia and among the Moscow tourist attractions .   The facade of the building, built in 1890, fits perfectly into the overall picture of Red Square and is illuminated photogenically at night.

In contrast to the scarcity economy of the Soviet era, the GUM today really has everything to offer that one can imagine. It has become the flagship of the shopping and fashion metropolis Moscow. But today you will mainly find smaller luxury shops here. From western high-couture boutiques such as Prada or Gucci to fur for the icy Russian winter, a well-to-do Muscovite or a tourist will find everything their heart desires here.

People can walk through the wide and beautifully decorated arcades of the GUM, free of charge. Cafes invite you to linger. A delicatessen shop on the ground floor sells Russian specialties at affordable prices. Chocolate, honey and caviar, as well as the all-round vodka in Russia, can be bought here as souvenirs for friends and family at home. In addition, the Soviet-style cafeteria on the upper floor is very cheap for lunch.

The GUM offers a special highlight every winter when the department store administration built an ice rink in front of the building directly on Red Square. For only 200 to 300 rubles per hour, depending on the time of day, you can lace up your skates and glide over the ice with the unique panorama of Red Square.

More about the GUM department store 

The Historical Museum

The Historical Museum is a museum of Russian history wedged between Red Square, Lenin Mausoleum, small Kazan Cathedral, and Manege Square. The red brick building of the Museum is a real eye-catcher and Moscow top attractions located on the opposite side of St. Basil’s Cathedral. It is dedicated to Russian history and is built in the Old Russian style, the building did not open until 1883.

The Museum houses everything from an exhibition on the archeology of Russia, through the technological achievements, to the art of the gigantic empire in 16 sections and has a total of 5 million exhibits. So if you are interested in the history of Russia, you cannot avoid visiting this Museum and should plan enough time for it.

A visit costs 150 to 500 rubles, depending on which exhibition you want to visit. The Museum is open in winter, autumn and spring from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., closed on Tuesdays. In the summer months, the extended Saturday times apply daily.

It is probably the most famous park in the Russian capital and the top Moscow tourist attractions – a novel and its film adaptation and a Russian rock band have its name and numerous songs by Russian and international bands and TV series, such as House of Cards, mention it or act here. Gorky Park is a premier green space offering entertainment for every taste. Located southwest of the center of Moscow on the Moskva River, it is designed more for family attractions and rest and the classic park on the other side – has become one of the meeting places for Muscovites of all kinds in recent years.

Whether for a yoga class, a family picnic or beach volleyball match, skateboarding, and cycling – people meet here often. Because even in the Gorky there is an ice surface in winter, the largest in Moscow, which attracts many Moscow residents as well as tourists.

A large-scale renovation in 2011 breathed new life into the park – the roller kiosks were removed and more emphasis was placed on the maintenance of the green spaces. The park remained free of charge and developed into one of the most popular places in the capital. Whether with the rental bike through the green lungs, the pedal boat across the numerous ponds or simply watching the goings-on on the park bench – a visit to Gorki is also absolutely worthwhile for tourists.

Day trip to the Golden Ring

As much as the metropolis Moscow is fascinating, the side effects of a cosmopolitan city like Moscow – the noise, the traffic and the crowds – can overwhelm any tourist. What could be better than a day trip to escape the organized chaos of the cosmopolitan city?

The places on the Golden Ring near Moscow are an ideal destination for this and among the Moscow main attractions – located north-east of the metropolis, these old Russian cities, some of which have existed for much longer than Moscow itself, offer a welcome change from the hectic hustle and bustle of the capital.

Developed in the late 1960s uniting several mediaeval Russian cities located to the north-east of Moscow it is the most popular route around provincial cities of central Russia. More than a thousand year old city of Yaroslavl on the Volga is the largest, but at 260 km from Moscow also the most distant city of the Golden Ring. For only 650 rubles, however, you can take the three-hour train ride there.

Yaroslavl has been part of the world cultural heritage since 2005 and is best known for its two monasteries – the Monastery of our Savior and Transfiguration and the Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Tolga are located directly on the Europe’s longest river Volga and its inflow Kotorosl. Both testify to the long history of the Russian Orthodox Church. The cityscape of Yaroslavl is also really worth seeing with its classicist buildings – walking through the streets of the city with 500,000 inhabitants is a welcome contrast to Moscow. Things are even more slow in the small towns of Suzdal and Vladimir, both of which can still be reached with the Moscow suburban train network (known as Elektrichka) for a good 500 rubles. In both cities time seems to have stood a little – large sacred buildings dominate the cityscape.

Especially the Assumption Cathedral, located in the center of Vladimir, and the Golden Medieval Gate are the main attractions for tourists. The church, built in the early 12th century, is best known for its almost 700 year old wall paintings and frescoes and is a World Heritage Site. The Suzdal Kremlin is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage List and was first mentioned in writing in 1024.

Suzdal with its only 10,000 inhabitants has still retained the character of a small Russian town and in the town, which will celebrate its millennium in 2024, you can still find numerous wooden buildings typical of rural Russia – whether churches or houses, the colorful buildings are ideal as Photo motif and give an impression of the simple Russian provinces life away from the metropolises.

The exhibition of the achievements of the national economies is not in every travel guide as a classic Moscow main attractions and a must see of the Russian capital. But no other place in the modern mega-metropolis exudes the spirit of the Soviet Union as much as the enormous VDNKh (All Russian Exhibition Centre) in the north of Moscow. It was built as an agricultural exhibition before World War II, but was then renamed world exhibition for the 15 individual Soviet states and their achievements.

From the Armenian, Estonian and Kyrgyz culture, to the Soviet achievements in space travel and nuclear power, to statues about the heroes of the Soviet history, the VNDKh (Vystavka Dostizheniy Narodnogo Khozyastva) was an absolute attraction until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. After that, the old charm fell into disrepair and the large central pavilion, which was built in the splendidly pompous Stalinist style, was filled with small traders selling souvenirs and matryoshkas.

Since its renovation in 2014, the exhibition in the park-like area is absolutely worth a trip again and with the metro station of the same name you can get from the center to the VDNKh quickly and without problems. There are still strange souvenirs, plus huge Soviet monuments worth seeing, as well as numerous rides for children. The Kosmos exhibition still exists and is now part of the Cosmonaut Museum, which is located at the front end of the park when coming from the metro station.

Here you can experience the various achievements of Soviet and Russian space travel vividly. From the very first Sputnik satellite, the spacesuit of Yuri Gargarin, the very first human in space, to the Buran space shuttle, you can learn an incredible amount about the conquest of the cosmos here. However, you should plan several hours just for a visit to the Cosmonaut Museum.

More about the cosmonaut museum

The Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery

To complete the cultural program in Moscow, you should definitely make a tour to the Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery when visiting the Russian capital. It is the largest museum of European art and among the Moscow top attractions. The former Museum of Fine Arts was named after Alexander Pushkin’s death in 1837 – it is still one of the most important art collections in the world today.

It boasts one of the richest collections of foreign art in Russia, showcasing global artistic developments from early times to the present day in expositions numbering 700,000 works of art.  Not far south of the Kremlin, exactly opposite the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the Museum is housed in a classic building specially built for this purpose in 1898. From early Byzantine art to the famous Madonna by Lukas Cranach, the Italian masters, Peter Paul Rubens and masterpieces of Expressionism, for example by Paul Cézanne, you can admire a huge selection of important art here.

The regular entry ticket costs 800 rubles and the Ьuseum is open on weekends from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., during the week until 8 p.m. – only Monday is closed.

The second important art collection in the capital is the State Tretyakov Gallery. It is the national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the greatest museums in the world. Started by the textile entrepreneur and philanthropist Pavel Tretyakov as a collection of local contemporary art in 1851, the gallery has now developed into one of the cultural highlights of Russia. In contrast to the Pushkin Museum, you will primarily find Russian art from the 19th century and older icons.

Entry cost is 400 rubles and the Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Monday is also the day off.

Take a stroll across Red Square, meet Lenin and see the world-famous Kremlin?

Then first of all you need a visa! !

Alexander Popov

Welcome to Russia! My name is Alexander, I was born in Moscow and I'm a passionate tour guide. I want to share my passion for Russia and my hometown with you. On my website you will find useful information to make your individual trip to Russia as interesting as possible.

The Museum of Cosmonautics and the Planetarium in Moscow

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