Journeys: Southern Italy, Naples to Rome
8 days, Naples to Rome
Itinerary
Day 1Naples
Arrive at any time. Meet your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and fellow travellers in the evening then head out for a delicious foodie tour. Dig into the city’s historic dishes from a classic Napoli Aperitivo to a Neapolitan pizza, then digest with a perfect gelato–buon appetito!
It was noted in a National Geographic article that the Queen of Italy visited Naples in 1889 and as she and her husband were strolling through the city centre, they were taken by the delicious aroma coming from a pizzeria. The chef, Raffaele Esposito, was invited to the palace to cook the dish for the royal family once again. Of the three styles Esposito prepared, Queen Margherita preferred that which emulated the Italian flag; red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and fresh green basil; the modern day margherita pizza.
Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting
The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
Your Foodie Moment: Naples Food Tour with a Local Guide
Experience Naples through its iconic cuisine on the Naples Food Tour. Explore historic neighbourhoods like the Spanish Quarter while tasting famous local dishes, including Neapolitan pizza and gelato. Along the way, enjoy an aperitivo and learn about the rich history behind each meal.
Accommodation
Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.
Hotel Rex Naples (or similar)
Meals included:
DinnerDay 2Naples/Sorrento
Travel to the UNESCO World Site of Pompeii. Join an archaeologist to explore the fascinating ruins of this ancient city preserved in time by ash and volcanic debris following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Later, continue south to the picturesque coastal city of Sorrento. Soak in the captivating views of the Bay of Naples on a leisurely walk. Then, enjoy the rest of the evening exploring on your own.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Pompeii with an Archaeologist
Walk through the ruins of Pompeii, the city buried under ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79. The forum, the baths and many houses remain well preserved and provide us with a glimpse of what life was like in the first century. Explore with an archaeologist, what is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe and is unparalleled in its preservation of an ancient city. This fascinating event is featured in the National Geographic documentary "Pompeii: Secrets of the Dead” in which forensic experts investigate why Pompeii's people couldn't escape.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Sorrento Orientation Walk
Explore Piazza Tasso, the lively central square filled with cafes and shops and walk along Corso Italia which is Sorrento's main street, bustling with vibrant shops and historic buildings. Head to Villa Comunale Park for stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
Accommodation
Majestic Palace Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 3Sorrento
Spend a free day in Sorrento to do as much or as little as you please. Perhaps explore the nearby island of Capri, boasting beautiful beaches, upscale boutiques, and historic landmarks. Alternatively, visit the volcanic island of Ischia, known for its thermal waters and stunning views of the medieval Aragonese Castle. You may also choose to stay in town and visit the Correale Museum, shop the city’s many boutiques or relax at Piazza Tasso, a square lined with cafés and restaurants.
Free Time
Stay in Sorrento and relax or visit the islands of Capri or Ischia.
Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow
Correale Museum Visit
7EUR per personTake a tour of the extensive collection of Neapolitan art and crafts, with bonus additions of ancient Roman and Greek artifacts. History not your thing? A visit to this 18th-century villa is worth it just for the breathtaking coastal views and a walk through its floral gardens.
Herculaneum Visit
13EUR per personExplore the well-preserved ruins of this ancient Roman town, lost in the same volcanic eruption as Pompeii. A UNESCO World Heritage site, much of Herculaneum’s wooden roofs, beds, doors and food can be seen in their near-original state. Wealthier than Pompeii, view the fine houses of Aristides, Argus, Genius and Alcove.
Capri Excursion
100-120EUR per personTake a catamaran or hydrofoil to see the jewel of the Amalfi islands. Stroll through the town, or simply relax and take in views of the blue water and striking limestone sea stacks.
Ischia Excursion
80EUR per personRelax at a one of the island’s many volcanic spas. Visit the Aragonese Castle (built on a rock), the Mortella Gardens, or the Villa Ravino Gardens, or spend the day at English’s Beach.
Accommodation
Majestic Palace Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 4Sorrento to the Amalfi Coast
This morning, set out on a visit to an organic lemon farm and stroll through the fragrant groves. Then, see how limoncello, the refreshing Italian lemon-flavored liqueur, is made. Later, travel by ferry to the town of Positano on the picturesque Amalfi coast and take in the picturesque views of the colourful, cliffside houses gradually receding into the distance. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore on your own then savor a dinner of delicious local dishes.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Boat
Climb aboard and get your float on.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Sorrento Lemon Farm and Limoncello Tasting
Visit an organic lemon farm and get an in-depth look at one of Italy’s best-loved beverages, limoncello, from a local producer. Take in panoramic views of the sea as you stroll through the fragrant lemon groves and learn about the history of the agriturismo. See how limoncello is made from beginning to end and enjoy a taste of this delicious liqueur. Salute!
Accommodation
Hotel Le Rocce Amalfi Coast (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 5The Amalfi Coast
After an early breakfast, set off on a hike along the famous “Path of the Gods” (weather permitting). Follow the ancient cliff top trail linking isolated farms, villages, churches and monasteries. Named from mythological roots, this trail is said to be the location where the gods rushed to Ulysses from the sirens of Capri. Historically, this path provided a link between some of Amalfi’s small, coastal villages. Enjoy stunning views of bays and coastlines, interesting caves and rock formations, historic ruins and steep cliff sides. Continue to an agriturismo for lunch, which specializes in fresh home grown produce. Meet the family and tour the property—a converted 17th-century monastery, and then enjoy the remainder of the day on your own.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Amalfi Agriturismo Experience
Enjoy lunch at a charming agriturismo that specializes in homegrown, delicious produce. Meet the family and tour the historic property, a converted 17th-century monastery. Explore the farm with one of our hosts, learning about local crops, herbs and vegetables that are the key ingredients in regional cuisine; then sit down to a wonderful meal of local fare surrounded by gardens, open terraces and groves, overlooking the Mediterranean.
Path of the Gods Hike
Set off from the agriturismo to Bomerano and follow the path along the Amalfi Coast with sensational views of lemon groves, gorges, deep valleys, woodland, abandoned farmhouses, and the sea below. Stop in the towns of Montepertuso and Positano, where there is more to explore.
Note that hikes are accessible for all travellers, but there can be sections that are more strenuous and challenging due to terrain. Please ensure you have proper closed-toe hiking footwear.
Accommodation
Hotel Le Rocce Amalfi Coast (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 6The Amalfi Coast to Rome
Travel north to Rome, Italy's capital city and cultural hub. Settle into the hotel and enjoy some free time before regrouping in the evening for a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Then, take a walking tour where you’ll experience Rome’s iconic landmarks lit up at night. At the Spanish Steps, begin the walk by heading down Via dei Condotti lined with high-end boutiques and bustling cafes. Stroll towards the Trevi Fountain, an iconic masterpiece where you can toss a coin for luck. Continue to the Pantheon walking along charming, narrow streets and bustling squares until you reach Piazza Navona, a grand Baroque square adorned with beautiful fountains, street artists and outdoor cafes–perfect for soaking in the lively Roman ambiance.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Evening Walk in Rome
Starting at the Spanish Steps, a stunning staircase that invites you to take in the vibrant atmosphere and views of Rome, begin your walk by heading down Via dei Condotti, lined with high-end boutiques and bustling cafes. Stroll towards the Trevi Fountain, an iconic masterpiece where you can toss a coin for luck. Continue your journey to the Pantheon, Finally, meander through charming narrow streets and lively squares until you reach Piazza Navona, a grand Baroque square adorned with beautiful fountains, street artists, and outdoor cafes, perfect for soaking in the lively Roman ambiance.
Accommodation
Mama Shelter Roma (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 7Rome
Enjoy a free day to explore Rome on your own. Perhaps visit the Colosseum, the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built, and the Roman Forum, previous home to public meetings, court proceedings, and gladiatorial combats. Alternatively, explore the Vatican, home of St. Peter’s Basilica and Leonardo Michelangelo’s famed masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Or choose to spend time wandering the streets and palazzi, taking time to enjoy a coffee or gelato —and embrace la dolce vita!.
Be sure to watch the National geographic documentary series “Lost Treasures of Rome” for added insight into the history of this ancient city.
Please note that if Vatican City is on your must-see list, we highly recommend purchasing your tickets online several weeks prior to your trip. Advance tickets can be reserved online at https://tickets.museivaticani.va/home. Same-day entrance to St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel) cannot be guaranteed without advance tickets.
We also recommend pre-booking your ticket to the Colosseum to guarantee entrance and avoid long queues:
https://ticketing.colosseo.it/en
Your Discover Moment
There's plenty to see and do in Rome, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like visiting the Colosseum, exploring the Pantheon, or sit down to a plate of pasta at a local trattoria. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
Vatican Museum Visit
20-25EUR per personThe Vatican Museums near St Peter's Basilica contain priceless works of art from ancient to modern times. There are many different museums to choose from, but two of the most well known are the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael rooms.
Colosseum Visit
24EUR per personEnjoy a guided tour of this famous spot, the scene of many bloody gladiator fights for the entertainment of ancient Rome's aristocracy. Learn from your expert guide and you wander the old venue—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and feel free to walk around on your own. No battles, please!
Rome Street Food Tour
65EUR per personKnown to locals as the “Heart of Rome”, Testaccio is the city’s original foodie neighbourhood and where cucina Romana (Roman cuisine) was born. Our 4-hour walking food tour lets you experience Rome like a local, in an authentic neighbourhood where people still live, eat and shop.
Escape the crowds and get a real glimpse of daily life while tasting the best of what the city has to offer. You’ll visit our local market and meet the vendors who have been there for generations, taste the most delicious pasta in the neighbourhood, and sample everything from a traditional antipasto to a typical Roman street food snack.
Along the way your local guide will give you a fascinating insight into Rome’s culture and history. You’ll also discover some of the city’s most fascinating landmarks, like the ancient Pyramid of Cestius and John Keats’ mysterious tomb.
Vatican City Visit
FreeGet ready to tick something off the bucket list. Visit the smallest country in the world—Vatican City! Stand in St Peter’s Square and be wowed by colossal colonnades, numerous statues, and the obelisk. Opt to take in the magnificence of St Peter’s Basilica, Michelangelo’s Pietá, and the Sistine Chapel while you are in the area.
Accommodation
Mama Shelter Roma (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 8Rome
Depart at any time.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.