A Lovely Planet

The Ultimate Two Week Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

I’ve spent a great deal of time travelling all over Italy. Partly because I’m married to an Italian, but mostly because I just love it. Nothing fills me with more happiness than sitting in a beautiful piazza eating pasta and sipping a prosecco or primitivo. The south of Italy has some of the country’s best beaches, is the birthplace of pizza, mozzarella and burrata and contains some incredible architectural and cultural sites. After exploring the area in both a motorhome and with a car and in hotels, here is what I think is the perfect Southern Italy road trip itinerary. 

Scilla, Calabria

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and purchase something I’ve recommended I may earn a small commission. This does not affect the price you pay but helps me to run this site. You can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

Where to start your Italy road trip? 

As with my Northern Italy road trip route , this itinerary follows a loop, so you can start and finish at any point of the itinerary. I’m suggesting Naples as a starting point as it has the largest airport in southern Italy aside from Rome, with plenty of car rental options . 

This 14 day Italy itinerary is fairly fast-paced but can be slowed down if you have more time. I’ve also offered detours if you have a longer trip and the option to take a longer Italian road trip. 

road trip to southern italy

Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary:

  • Day 1-2 Campania
  • Day 3-6 Puglia 
  • Day 7-10 Calabria
  • Day 11 Basilicata 
  • Day 12-14 Campania

Camper or Car?

This is a beautiful part of the world to travel by motorhome or campervan but equally, there are some absolutely stunning hotels in Southern Italy too. So either option is great and I’ve included recommended places to stay for both. 

Hire a car in Italy.

Hire a motorhome or camper in Italy.

Tips for driving in Italy

Driving in Italy can seem a little scary but once you get used to the Italian driving style it’s generally pretty enjoyable. The horn is used much more frequently than in the UK and Australia and is usually just to let you know they are there rather than being aggressive. Watch out for speed cameras, especially in small towns where the limit is usually 50km/h, and familiarise yourself with the motorway toll options. If you don’t have an automatic Telepass in your car you will need to choose the payment lane. 

This southern Italy itinerary includes lots of delicious food and drink, incredible beaches, gorgeous little towns, and a few cities. 

Day 1-2 Campania 

Naples to Polignano a Mare Map

Fly into Naples (Napoli), grab a rental car/camper , and head into the city. Though Naples often gets a bad rep, it’s actually a fantastic city to visit with a beautiful historic centre. And more importantly, it is the original home of pizza. 

If you do nothing else during your stay in Naples, try at least one margherita pizza. Named after Queen Margherita who loved the dish during a visit in 1889. You will also find incredible mozzarella which originates from the region and delicious limoncello amongst many other delightful treats. 

lanes in Naples

Naples highlights 

  • Visit the Castel Nuovo (a medieval castle)
  • The Catacombs of San Gennaro (an underground paleo-Christian burial and worship site)
  • Take a pizza-making course 
  • Stroll the Lungomare (the seaside promenade) 
  • Visit Naples National Archaeological Museum
  • Explore the main street of Spaccanapoli and the surrounding lanes
  • Eat a margherita pizza, mozzarella and drink limoncello

A margarita pizza in Naples

Where to Stay in Naples 

Budget –  Terrazza Partenopea has en suite rooms with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a fridge, located in the Spanish neighbourhood. 

Mid-Range –  Toledo Boutique Rooms is a new accommodation with modern rooms. Centrally located with friendly staff. 

Luxury –  Relais sul Mare is located on the promenade in a historic building overlooking the Gulf of Naples. Parking is available nearby for an additional charge. 

Campsites – There is an area di sosta with water and waste facilities at Parking IPM on Viale Colli Aminei 27. It has 24-hour security and is very centrally located – an easy bus to the main sights. 

road trip to southern italy

Day 3-6 Puglia

road trip to southern italy

Puglia is such a gorgeous region with white-washed hilltop towns, stunning beaches and fantastic red wine. If you have lots of time, then I recommend heading all the way down to Lecce, Otranto and Gallipoli and the tip of the heel. If not then follow the itinerary below. 

Polignano a Mare 

It is just over 3 hours from Naples to the coastal town of Polignano a Mare by car. Located on the rocky coastline of Valle d’Itria, it’s a beautiful spot with striking white buildings perched on limestone cliffs. The town is popular for its picturesque beaches and it has also become a favourite with cliff divers. The main beach of Cala Porto is the setting for an annual cliff diving competition. 

White houses on the cliff side overlooking the beach at polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare highlights 

  • Swim at Cala Porto (also known as Lama Monachile)
  • Have an aperitivo in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II
  • Eat at the much-photographed Grotta Palazzese (a restaurant within a cave overlooking the sea)
  • Get the best views of the beach from Terrazza Santo Stefano

road trip to southern italy

You can spend the night in Polignano a Mare but I suggest continuing on your south Italy itinerary to Ostuni (around 40 minutes drive) and using this as a base for the Puglia portion of this road trip. 

An al fresco bar with white walls and blue shutters in Ostuni

Known as ‘Citta Bianca’ (white city), Ostuni is a maze of cobbled streets and lanes perched on a hill.  It really is a gorgeous city with white-washed buildings decorated with colourful flowers and lovely views out over the Puglian countryside. 

Ostuni highlights 

  • Wander the narrow lanes and discover lovely bars, restaurants and shops at every turn 
  • Visit 15th Century Gothic Ostuni Cathedral 
  • Admire the views of the olive groves below and out to the Adriatic 
  • Walk along the city walls 

Enrico admiring the coloruful flowers in the lanes of Ostuni

Where to stay in Ostuni

There are some great places to stay in the centre of Ostuni such as  Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & SPA , however, for this southern Italy road trip, I recommend staying just outside the city in a masseria. A masseria is an old farmhouse (usually an olive farm) that has been converted into accommodation. Most have pools, fabulous restaurants and are an incredibly relaxing way to spend a few days in Puglia. 

An olive press decorated with candles

Budget – There aren’t many budget masserias, so if you’re looking for cheaper accommodation try Casa In Pietra , located in the historic centre. The air-conditioned apartment has a kitchen and one bedroom. 

Mid-Range/Luxury –  Masseria Le Carrube  is one of the best places I’ve stayed in Italy. The old olive press forms the centrepiece of the hotel’s excellent (vegetarian) restaurant and the white walls are draped in purple Bougainvillea. It has two idyllic pools surrounded by olive groves.

Masseria Cervarolo is a traditional farm with restored 16th-century trulli (typical Puglian stone houses with conical roofs). 6km from Ostuni, The Masseria’s grounds include an outdoor swimming pool and an ancient chapel.

Campsites – Agriturismo Salinola offers parking on the grounds of the property with the use of the facilities (including a swimming pool and playground) included in the price and access to the restaurant for breakfast and dinner. 

Read our guide to the best things to do in Puglia.

Masseria Le Carrube

Alberobello

The next day head to Alberobello . If you can, depart early for the 40-minute drive to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is known for its many trulli. You’ll notice lots of tour buses rolling up throughout the morning full of tourists, so the earlier you arrive here the better. 

Alberobello highlights 

  • Take a stroll and admire the uniqueness of this town 
  • Visit Trullo Sovrano – the only two-storey trullo, home to a heritage museum
  • See the Sant’Antonio Church
  • Visit “Il Trullo più piccolo ” – the smallest trullo.
  • See Trullo Siamese – two connected trulli 

Small houses with cone roofs - Trulli in Alberobello

Stay in a trullo in Alberobello

Drive 20 minutes from Alberobello to Cisternino for lunch. This is another beautiful whitewashed hill town and one of Italy’s ‘Borghi più Belli’ (most beautiful towns). 

Cisternino highlights 

  • Admire the views from Piazza Garibaldi
  • Eat bombette (‘little bombs’ of rolled meat and cheese)
  • Have a drink in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele

A whitewashed street with colourful flowers

After spending the final night at your masseria, get up early and drive to Tropea in Calabria. It’s a 4 and half-hour drive, with a few optional detours. 

Check out our three-day Puglia itinerary for more detail.  

Punta Prosciutto

If you fancy a bit of time on the beach, head southwest to Punta Prosciutto . This is a gorgeous long sandy beach with crystal clear water. The large majority of the beach is free, but there is a lido section if you want umbrellas and deck chairs. There are a few small bars if you’re after a coffee, snack or lunch but the rest of the beach is pretty untouched. It’s idyllic. (This will add an hour and 30 minutes to the driving time)

A long sandy beach with crystal clear water

Alternatively, head north to Matera . Matera is the city of caves and is a Unesco World Heritage Site. It’s one of the oldest cities in the world. You may also recognise it from James Bond – No Time To Die. 

Matera highlights

  • Visit Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario (a typical cave dwelling)
  • Wander the narrow streets
  • Take a historic walking tour and learn about the city’s fascinating past
  • Visit Santa Maria di Idris (a cave church)
  • Check out Casa Noha – a multimedia exhibit that tells the history of the city 

road trip to southern italy

You can also spend the night in Matera in a Cave hotel, and add a day onto your Italian road trip.

Day 7-10 Calabria

Puglia to Calabria Map

If you’re heading straight to Tropea, then a good midway stop is Roseto Capo Spulico. This is a coastal town with an impressive castle right on the water. 

Roseto Capo Spulico

Tropea is a popular Italian holiday destination, known for Santa Maria dell’Isola Monastery – a medieval church perched on top of a rocky cliff surrounded by the shimmering water of the Mediterranean. There are some excellent restaurants in the historic town centre and beautiful beaches. It’s also a short boat ride from here to the volcanic island of Stromboli.

road trip to southern italy

Tropea Highlights 

  • Visit Santuario di Santa Maria dell’Isola di Tropea 
  • Eat Nduja sausage and red onion
  • Take a day trip to Stromboli – a volcanic island fringed with black sand (and a still active volcano)
  • Wander the historic centre 
  • Take a boat trip and snorkel at Capo Vaticano
  • Enjoy a dip at the beautiful beach

red onions in Tropea

Where to Stay in Tropea

Budget –  Donnaciccina is located in the pedestrian centre of Tropea, 400m from the sea. Comfortable country-style rooms have air conditioning and balconies. 

Mid-Range – We had a great stay at Residenza RoMa . 500m from the beach and 700m from the town centre, this small and friendly accommodation offers elegant and air-conditioned rooms, each with an outdoor area and a modern shared lounge area. 

Residenza RoMa

Luxury –  Villa Paola is set in a 16th-century convent overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. With an outdoor pool, sun terrace and garden, and elegant rooms, the 5-star property is a luxurious place to stay in Tropea. 

Campsites – You can’t get a much better camper spot than Da Ciccio Parking , right next to the beach and a short walk from the Old Town. Next door Camping Marina del Convento has pitches for tents, cars and caravans. Some with sea views. 

road trip to southern italy

Find accommodation in Tropea

Spend two nights in Tropea and then drive onto Scilla . Less frequented than Tropea, we absolutely loved this town. With the fortress – Castello Ruffo – in the centre, the beach resort of Marina Grande to the west and the quaint fishing village of Chianelea to the east, it’s a wonderful place to spend a few days. 

Scilla

Scilla Highlights

  • Watch the fishermen search for swordfish in their impressive tall ships (or join them for a day of fishing)
  • Visit Castello Ruffo
  • Eat swordfish 
  • Wander the narrow lanes of Chianalea – one of the ‘Borghi più belli d’Italia’ – ‘most beautiful villages in Italy’.

Chianalea

Where to stay in Scilla

Budget –  Hotel Scilla is set in Scilla’s centre, a 10-minute walk from the sea. It offers free parking and free Wi-Fi. Rooms have air conditioning, some with a balcony. Breakfast is included in the rate. 

Mid-Range – We absolutely loved B&B Chianalea 54 . It’s on a pedestrian street so you will need to park your car at the port and walk along the narrow lane to get there, but it’s totally worth it. It has lovely views from the balconies, and you can have your breakfast served here. 

Luxury – Set right on the water, the large terraces at La Veduta have exceptional views. A delicious breakfast is included in the rate.

Campsites – There isn’t a campsite in Scilla but there are some nearby such as Il Tracciolino .

Find accommodation in Scilla

Road trip option: From here you can continue on to Reggio Calabria and take a ferry to Sicily, adding a Sicily road trip to this itinerary. You ideally want an additional week or more for this.

Day 11 Maratea, Basilicata

Calabria to Basilicata Map

Head north to the region of Basilicata. It’s a 3 hour drive to the commune of Maratea, known as the Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea. There are two sections to this town, the historic old town on the hill and the port down by the water.

Maratea

Maratea Highlights

  • Admire the statue of Cristo Redentore – the second biggest in the world, after Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil 
  • Swim/relax at one of the rocky beaches such as Spiaggia Marina di Castrocucco
  • Enjoy gelato at Gelateria Emilio at the port 
  • Wander the historic centre of the old town 

Spiaggia Marina di Castrocucco

Where to stay in Maratea

Budget –  B&B da AnnaMaria is located close to the historic centre but in a quiet area. Offering beautiful views and a garden, rooms have air conditioning and free WIFI. 

Mid-Range –  Hotel Ristorante Borgo La Tana is a 10-minute walk from L’Agnola Beach and an 8 minute drive from the historic centre. We enjoyed our stay here and the hotel has great facilities including an outdoor pool, fitness and wellness facilities, as well as free parking. There is a restaurant serving Italian cuisine and Basilicatan specialities and breakfast is served on the terrace in the summer months.

Luxury – The 5-star Santavenere Hotel has its own private beach, 250m from the property, as well as swimming pools, a wellness centre and three restaurants. It’s 3km from the centre of Maratea and operates a free shuttle service.

If you want to stay in the old town, then La Locanda Delle Donne Monache is an excellent choice, set in a beautiful building that is an ex-convent. It has an outdoor pool, cocktail bar and garden. 

road trip to southern italy

Day 12-14 The Amalfi Coast, Campania

Basilicata to the Amalfi Coast Map

Departing Maratea, you are heading to your final destination of the trip – the Amalfi Coast . This is one of the most popular destinations in Italy for international tourists and it’s easy to see why – beautiful cliff-side towns and villages overlook the Mediterranean, connected by narrow roads with sheer drops into the water below. This is an expensive destination, filled with high-end hotels and fine-dining restaurants. However, it is possible to do it on a moderate budget . 

Positano

Amalfi Coast Highlights

  • You can’t come to the Amalfi Coast without visiting Positano, the much-photographed hillside town. Have an aperitivo overlooking the beach and dinner at one of the lovely sea-view restaurants. 
  • Take a trip to the famous island of Capri
  • Visit the mountaintop town of Ravello
  • Hire a boat and admire the Amalfi Coast from the water 
  • Hike the 6.5km Path of the Gods 
  • Spend some time in the town of Amalfi, and admire the Amalfi Cathedral
  • Take a day trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum 

Amalfi

Driving on the Amalfi Coast

Hopefully, by this point on your Southern Italy road trip, you are feeling confident enough with driving to tackle the narrow roads of the Amalfi Coast. Locals will drive fast, but take your time on the windy roads and enjoy the incredible views! During your time here, if you don’t feel like driving, there is also a bus that connects the towns and villages, so you can leave your car at your accommodation. There is also a ferry between some of the larger towns such as Amalfi and Salerno. 

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast 

Positano is a beautiful place to stay but can be very expensive. I love the village of Praiano, located between Amalfi and Positano, which has some lovely accommodation, restaurants and two rocky beaches. Personally, I would avoid staying in Sorrento, which is very touristy and where cruise ships come in.

Budget – There isn’t a huge amount of budget accommodation on the Amalfi Coast, but there are a few hostels and 3 star hotels. Hotel Villa Bellavista is a great family-run hotel in Praiano with air-conditioned rooms and an Italian-style breakfast.

A pool overlooking Positano

Mid-Range – I would go back to Villa Il Frantoio in a heartbeat. Set in a 17th-century olive press, the family-run accommodation in Praiano has the most incredible views of Positano, Praiano and the water – particularly from the pool and sun terrace. All rooms have a sea-view balcony or terrace. Access is up a steep staircase and you will need to park your car nearby (EUR 12 per day), but it’s totally worth it. 

Luxury –   Hotel Eden Roc Suites has incredible views of Positano. There is a pool, a spa and gym, as well as a restaurant and sun terrace.

road trip to southern italy

Ultra Luxury – Considered one of the best hotels in the world, the luxurious 5-star San Pietro di Positano has a private beach and a Michelin-starred restaurant. There are two bars, a tennis court, a pool and a spa. Parking is free, along with a free shuttle bus into Positano. It’s very expensive to stay here, but if you can afford it, this is the place to stay in Positano. 

Find accommodation on the Amalfi Coast

A LOVELY PLANET - TRAVEL - ITALY

On your final day, drive back to Naples for your flight home. 

How to Extend Your Southern Italy Road Trip

If you have more time, you could add one of the following:

From Calabria, take the ferry across to Sicily. You can easily spend a few weeks here exploring the island, its beautiful beaches and excellent cuisine.

Sicily

From the Amalfi Coast, continue north to Rome and end your trip here with a few days in the city. Read our suggested Rome itinerary here .

View of the Vatican from Gianicolo Hill

As mentioned above, spend a day or two in Matera after departing Puglia and before reaching Calabria.

road trip to southern italy

Northern Italy Road Trip

If you have lots of time you can add a northern Italy road trip before or after this trip. Read our suggested itinerary here .

How long do I need for a Southern Italy road trip?

Ideally two weeks or more. In two weeks you can explore a few of the regions in Southern Italy. If you have more time you can travel at a more relaxed pace, spend longer in each destination and add a few additional stops.

What is the best time of year to visit the south of Italy?

Spring, Summer and Autumn are all great times to travel in Southern Italy. In the summer you will have the highest temperatures but also the biggest crowds. In the shoulder seasons, you can enjoy quieter beaches while still having warm weather.

Where are the best beaches in Italy?

Italy’s best beaches are considered to be on the islands of Sicily and  Sardinia , as well as in the Southern Italian regions of  Puglia  and Calabria. Though there are lovely beaches all over the country.

What are the most beautiful towns in Southern Italy?

The hilltop towns of Ostuni and Cisternino in Puglia are incredibly beautiful along with the famous town of Alberobello. Tropea and Scilla in Calabria are gorgeous beachside towns with stunning architecture and the Amalfi Coast is full of lovely little towns.

You may also like

A foodie bologna itinerary – 3 days in..., 7 day verona and lake garda itinerary, rome to venice road trip itinerary – 10....

' src=

This is excellent! I might add a week in Sardinia, this is in October. Recommendations?

' src=

Have a lovely time!

Check out our Sardinia itinerary here: https://www.alovelyplanet.com/sardinia-road-trip-1-week-itinerary/

' src=

Is there Any buses that make the South Route of Italy With hotels included?

I’m sure there are, but I haven’t travelled the route by bus. It might be worth looking at one of the tour companies like G Adventures or Intrepid and see what they offer. Have a great trip!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

  • Banda Islands
  • North Sulawesi
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Emilia Romagna
  • Northern Ireland
  • New South Wales
  • Northern Territory
  • South Australia
  • Western Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Cook Islands
  • French Polynesia

A Foodie Bologna Itinerary – 3 Days in…

Puglia itinerary – 3 days in puglia, byron bay itinerary – 3 days in byron…, umbria itinerary – 3 days in umbria, italy, clare valley itinerary – a weekend in the…, 3 week mexico itinerary, 10 day tuscany road trip itinerary, perth to exmouth road trip itinerary, the perfect 10 day samoa itinerary, rome to venice road trip itinerary – 10…, sydney to byron bay road trip itinerary, the great southern – adelaide to brisbane aboard…, the best tacos in mexico city, the best sydney avocado dishes, things to do in tuscany, italy, the best sydney speakeasy bars, the best wineries in mclaren vale, reef magic review – a great barrier reef…, the best sardinia beaches, french polynesia itinerary – two weeks in french…, tasmania road trip – 2 week tasmania itinerary, kakadu itinerary – 4 days in kakadu and…, how to have a finnish lapland summer adventure, queenstown activities – things to do in queenstown, 5 ski resort alternatives to skiing and snowboarding, a beginners guide to skiing & snowboarding, skiing the three valleys, the darling, sydney – hotel review, an overnight yacht stay in sydney, vibe hotel canberra – review, stillwater seven, tasmania – review, the ship inn stanley review, how to travel japan with a baby and…, how to have the perfect holiday in fiji…, essentials for travelling with a baby, tips for travelling with a baby, on the road: tips for a nomadic lifestyle, how to make the most of your money…, the amalfi coast on a budget, long term travel checklist, choosing a travel backpack, my favourite travel gear, 10 essential items to pack for a round…, sustainable hotels – how to choose eco-friendly accommodation, tanja lagoon camp – review, responsible tourism – how to be a sustainable…, volunteering – a different way to travel.

  • About A Lovely Planet
  • Personal Posts
  • Work With A Lovely Planet

The Adventures of Nicole

Southern Italy Road Trip: From the Heel to the Toe

Updated March 2024 ,  The Southern Italy Road Trip was originally written in December 2018

This Southern Italy road trip will take you through Italy’s southern regions of Campania, Basilicata, Puglia, and Calabria. These regions don’t quite get the number of foreign tourists (except for the Amalfi Coast , which I have included!) that the stars of Northern Italy get.

Don’t be put off by the scant information on Italy’s south, it’s definitely a hidden gem begging to be discovered.

The people are more passionate, life moves slower and the food is made with all the amore (as well as an added kick of spice).

I will give rough estimates for timings for each part of this road trip as I know everyone likes to move at a different pace, and also has differing amounts of travel time.

I think 10 days would be the minimum to complete it in while others may take 20 or more days. The trip will start and end in Naples, but fear not: If you’d like to continue down to  Sicily  by ferry it is completely possible!

If you’re looking for more Italy inspiration check out Dan Flying Solo’s  Hidden Gems of Italy  article.

Looking for more ideas? Check out my  off the beaten path Italy guide

Need Travel Insurance and Evacuation Services for Italy?

Start shopping for travel insurance plans over at  IATI Insurance . Readers of the Adventures of Nicole get a 5% discount off your plan.

The Adventures of Nicole partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading medical evacuation and security advisory services. To travel with peace of mind, shop evacuation coverage at Global Rescue .

How To Rent A Car For A Southern Italy Road Trip

We used  Holiday Autos  to make our rental car booking from Naples Airport, but I also recommend booking through Expedia from other past experiences.

The process was simple and picking up the car from the rental car agency was a quick process. I have used this company before in  Cyprus  and  Morocco  and have had all good experiences.

Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

South Italy Road Trip Map

Naples — 1-3 Days

Mount Vesuvius, Naples, Campania, Italy

Welcome to Italy’s Dirty South! Where better to kick off your Southern Italy road trip than with a warm benvenuto then the capital of pizza,  Napoli .

You’ve probably heard some not-so-good things about Naples, it’s a city without a great reputation. With that said, I have been to Naples several times now and have never had an issue. Just keep your wits about you and use your usual precautions and all should be fine.

Some must-do’s in Naples include grabbing a pizza at  Gino Sorbillo’s , checking out the displays at Museo d’Arte Contemporanea, taking a funicular ride up to Castel Sant Elmo, gawking at the architecture of Gesu Nuovo, and grabbing a drink at Piazze Bellini. And that’s just a few things to catch in Napoli, there’s also The Royal Palace of Naples, National Archeology Museum of Naples, Castel Dell’Ovo, and Piazza del Plebiscito.

Just outside Naples, you can explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and even climb to the top of Mt. Vesuvius– don’t worry if you’re not that active: there are plenty of great views of Vesuvius from Naples (but you can reward yourself with some more Gino Sorbillo’s pizza, just saying).

Plan your stay:  The Naples Travel Guide

Where To Stay In Naples

  • Budget:  Hostel of the Sun |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
  • Midrange:  Napoli City Rooms |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
  • Splurge:  Grand Hotel Vesuvio |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Amalfi Coast — 2-3 Days

Positano, Amalfi Coast, Campania, Italy

Any of you regular readers here know that I’m not usually a fan of well-known tourist traps, but trust me when I say the  Amalfi Coast  is a tourist haven for good reason– it’s gorgeous. Just make sure and be patient, especially in summer for the traffic jams.. and not to mention the extremely narrow winding roads here– the Amalfi Coast is impossible to rush through.

We visited the Amalfi Coast at Halloween and can say albeit rainy weather it was a great time to visit, as the crowds were thin and all the festivities were going on.

Plan your visit to the Amalfi Coast with my  Amalfi Coast Guide

Where To Stay On The Amalfi Coast

  • Budget:  Cetara Albergo Difuso (Cetara) |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
  • Midrange:  Hotel Savoia (Positano) |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
  • Splurge:  La Sirenuse (Positano) |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Rooms in the towns of Positano and Amalfi tend to be more expensive. If you don’t mind staying in a smaller village along the coast it can save you some money, as well as staying just beyond the coast on either and in  Sorrento  or  Salerno .

If visiting in the off-season many of the hotels will be closed. On our November visit, the gorgeous Hotel Savoia was still open and offered some great room rates.

Castelmezzano & Pietrapertosa — 1 Day

Italy, South Italy, Southern Italy, Basilicata, Castlemezzano, Castelmezzano, Castelmezzano Italy, Southern Italy road trip, South Italy road trip, Italy road trip

Shh, don’t let everyone one in on this secret gem of Italy… in fact, I feel like I’m betraying the place by mentioning it on this itinerary. But really, is this real life?

Yes, yes it is. These are the mountaintop villages of  Castelmezzano & Pietrapertosa , surrounded by the wild peaks of the Lucian Dolomites dating back to the 10th century. For those adventurous, you can zipline between the two villages on the ‘Flight of the Angel‘.

You’re welcome.

See why you can’t pass up  Castelmezzano & Pietrapertosa

Where To Stay In Castelmezzano

  • Budget: La Panoramica | Booking.com | Agoda.com |
  • Midrange:  Dimore dell’Omo |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
  • Splurge:  Borgo dell’Angelo |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Matera — 1/2-2 Days

Sassi, Sassi di Matera, Matera, Basilicata, Italy

Once known to be one of the poorest cities in Italy and now slated as a 2019 European Capital of Culture, Matera has risen from the Sassi.

Oh don’t worry, the Sassi has gone nowhere– The Sassies are the mountainside cave dwellings that the citizens of  Matera  have inhabited since Paleolithic times. Matera is chock full of underground homes, restaurants, churches, and even a museum.

Don’t miss visiting the archeological gem of the  Sassi di Matera

Where To Stay In Matera

  • Budget:  The Rock Hostel |  Booking.com  | 
  • Midrange:  Stone Rooms |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
  • Splurge:  Locanda di San Martino Hotel & Thermae Romanae |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Wanna save €€€ on accommodation? I recommend booking a room in nearby  Castellaneta  or  Massafra .

Alberobello — 1/2-1 Day

Italy, South Italy, Southern Italy, Southern Italy road trip, South Italy road trip, Italy road trip, Alberobello, Alberobello Italy, Trulli, Trullo, Apulia, Puglia

Alberobello  is home to the largest and best-kept collection of Trulli stone houses.

The most popular theory suggests that in avoidance of paying high property tax rates by the people brought to the Itria Valley to work, these conical stone houses were built in such a way that they could be quickly dismantled when tax appraisers came by– only inhabited homes could be taxed back in the day.

These fascinating buildings look like something straight out of a fairytale.

With all that said, Alberobello can easily be seen in half a day, but some may opt to spend a full day touring around or even take the opportunity to rent a Trullo and spend a night in one.

Check out the  best things to do in Alberobello  before you visit

Where To Stay In Alberobello

  • Budget:  Villiaggio Camping Bosco Selva |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
  • Midrange:  Il Trullo dei Sogni |  Booking.com  |
  • Splurge:  Trulli Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Wanna save €€€ on accommodation? I recommend booking a room in nearby  Castellaneta ,  Martina Franca , or  Massafra .

Martina Franca — 1/2-1 Day

Martina Franca, Puglia, Apulia, Italy

Martina Franca is a short drive from Alberobello and is definitely worth the stop. The Centro Storico (Old Town) is very well preserved with great examples of Baroque architecture and hardly another foreign tourist around.

Where To Stay In Martina Franca

  • Budget:  Archetto Bianco |  Booking.com  |
  • Midrange:  Il Trullo del Leccio da Madia |  Booking.com  |
  • Splurge:  Trulli del Carmine |  Booking.com  |

Grotta Della Poesia — 1/2-1 Day

Grotta Della Poesia translates out to the Cave of Poetry in English and is it ever so fitting a name. This beautiful natural cave pool filled with crystal clear aquamarine waters definitely warrants a stop as you make your way down Puglia– the heel of the boot.

Looking for travel ideas for the more iconic stop in Northern Italy? Check out my two week classic Italy itinerary and start planning

Santa Cesarea Terme — 1/2-1 Day

This small town near the bottom of the boot packs some lovely beaches around it as well as being home to a few thermal baths (hence the name Terme). Some may opt to pass through making a quick stop while others will plan to stay a day or three.

Where To Stay In Santa Cesarea Terme

  • Budget:  Tenuto Don Monaco |  Booking.com  |
  • Midrange:  Paradise Sea Apartment |  Booking.com  |
  • Splurge:  La Capase Resort Salento |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Pollino National Park — 1 Day

road trip to southern italy

It’s no lie– the south coast of Basilicata isn’t the most exciting (although, you can make stops and try to find hidden gems along the way!) But to break up the long drive from Puglia to Calabria a stop at Pollino National Park will break the monotony. The park is known for its plethora of tree types and stunning little towns.

Tropea — 1-2 Days

road trip to southern italy

Tropea is no secret to Italian sun-seekers in the summer months. Whitewashed with summer sun, sandy beaches, cerulean waters, and the gorgeous Santa dell’Islo church nestled into a rock and looming over the sea below.

Where To Stay In Tropea

  • Budget:  Hotel la Perla |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
  • Midrange:  Passo del Cavaliere |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
  • Splurge:  Hotel Rocca Della Sena |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Grotto dell’Arcomagno — 1/2-1 Day

road trip to southern italy

North along Calabria’s coast from Tropea lies the Grotto dell’Arcomagno, which is still very much a hidden gem in Italy, though do expect a crowd of domestic tourists in the summer months. To reach the grotto you will need to first head to the small seaside town of San Nicola Arcella, then walk across the beach and follow the trail up the rocks and be rewarded with views of the beautiful arch and clear waters below.

Maratea — 1/2-1 Day

Italy, South Italy, Southern Italy, Southern Italy road trip, South Italy road trip, Italy road trip, Maratea, Basilicata

Maratea is a picture-perfect coastal town, sprinkled with churches in typical Italian fashion and all the waterfront restaurants and marina with a statue of Christ guarding over from a cliffside above. After our visit, we highly recommend staying in nearby Aquafredda at Villa Irlanda with the most welcoming owner.

Where To Stay In Maratea

  • Budget:  Hotel Ristorante Borgo La Tana |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
  • Splurge:  La Locanda Delle Donne Monache |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Cilento Coast — 1-2 Days

road trip to southern italy

The Amalfi Coast’s lesser-visited cousin– the Cilento Coast has just as much to offer with equal beauty and a fraction of the crowd. With sandy beaches and sunbleached towns, it has much to offer. Seaside towns to explore include Agropoli, Palinuro, and Castellabate. Move inland to find countless hikes on offer at Parco Nazionale del Cilento e Vallo di Diano and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Certosa San Lorenzo in Padula… and let’s not forget the Greek ruins in Paestum.

You can easily spend a week or more exploring this area, but for those crunched on time, you can still enjoy the views as you make your way back up to Naples to end your road trip.

Where To Stay On The Cilento Coast

  • Midrange:  Aurora B&B (Agropoli) |  Booking.com  |
  • Splurge:  Hotel Palazzo Belmonte (Castellabate) |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

When To Go On A Southern Italy Road Trip

Naturally, the south of Italy has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. Temperatures in the winter can range from 3-14ºC and in summers will typically fluctuate from 19-30+ºC. The wettest months of the year are October and November (which I can attest to as we did our Southern Italy road trip in early November).

To avoid the crowds and still get nice weather consider the shoulder months of April, May, & September. If you’re not afraid of chilly weather January & February can be a great time to visit as prices are lowest and crowds are thinnest.

Amalfi, Amalfi Coast, Positano, Italy, Southern Italy, Southern Italy Roadtrip, Southern Italy Road Trip, Europe, Italy, South Italy, Southern Italy, Southern Italy road trip, South Italy road trip, Italy road trip, Campania

Southern Italy Road Trip Tips

  • Italy drives on the right
  • Most cars in Italy are manual transmissions. Automatics are available but can book well in advance in the summer months. Plan to pay a little more for an automatic (in November 2018 an automatic compact car was going in the range of 7-15€/day, whereas manuals were going for 5€/day)
  • Make sure and have an IDP (international driver’s permit) before you leave home. I had to make my friend Tay get one before she came over to visit me because I realized not only was mine expired, but I had lost it. If you get into an accident, even a simple fender-bender in Italy, and don’t have an IDP you will have a costly ordeal on your hands much of the time. Go to a AAA branch and apply for one, tip: bring a passport photo.
  • Watch your speed. There are cameras on the roads clocking speed and dealing with the polizia can be a gigantic pain in the ass.

Have Any Southern Italy Road Trip Questions?

Ask your Southern Italy road trip questions in the comments below!

More Posts from Italy:

Rome in one day, Rome one day, Rome, Rome Italy, Italy, Rome at night, Italy at night

One Day In Rome: It Wasn’t Built In A Day, But You Can See It In One

Venice, Italy

Two Week Classic Italy Itinerary

Syracuse Travel, Siracusa Travel, Ortygia Travel ,Ortigia Travel, Syracuse Travel Guide, Syracuse, Ortygia, Ortigia, Siracusa, Syracuse Sicily, Sicily, Italy

A Quick Guide To Syracuse & Ortygia Island, Sicily

Positano, Amalfi Coast, Campania, Italy

A Quick Amalfi Coast Travel Guide

Sassi, Sassi di Matera, Matera, Basilicata, Italy

A Quick Guide To Italy’s Cave City Of Matera

Napa Valley Wine Route, Napa Valley, California, best wine routes in the world

Discover The Best Wine Routes Across The Globe

Sperlonga, Lazio, Italy

20 Off The Beaten Path Destinations In Italy

Mount Vesuvius, Naples, Campania, Italy

The Top 18 Things To Do In Naples, Italy: The Naples Travel Guide

Mount Circeo, San Circeo Felica, Sabaudia Latina, Lazio, Italy

Hiking Mount Circeo In Italy’s Lazio Region

Italy, South Italy, Southern Italy, Southern Italy road trip, South Italy road trip, Italy road trip, Alberobello, Alberobello Italy, Trulli, Trullo, Apulia, Puglia

A Quick Guide To Alberobello + 5 Things To Do In Alberobello

Paritutu Beach, Taranaki, New Zealand, New Plymouth, Snapper Rock, Motuotamatea

The Best Road Trips In The World

Terracina, Latina, Lazio, Italy

Terracina Travel Guide + Things To Do In Terracina

Castelmezzano, Potenza, Basilicata, Southern Italy, Italy

A Quick Guide To Castelmezzano & Pietrapertosa, Italy

Lampedusa, Lampedusa travel, Lampedusa travel guide, Italy, Southern Italy, Sicily, Pelagie, Pelagie Islands. Spiagga dei Conigli, Isola dei Conigli, Rabbit Beach

Lampedusa Travel Guide: Italy’s Southernmost Island

Sperlonga, Latina, Lazio, Italy

Sperlonga: Lazio Region’s Best Kept Italian Secret

Italy, South Italy, Southern Italy, Basilicata, Castlemezzano, Castelmezzano, Castelmezzano Italy, Southern Italy road trip, South Italy road trip, Italy road trip

Southern Italy Road Trip: From Heel To The Toe

Two tornados, a road trip, & italian citizenship.

Old Balkh, Balkh, Bactria, Walls of Balkh, Balkh Walls, Ancient Bactria, Bactria Walls

Marco Poloing Around: The Long Way to Italy, Via Afghanistan

7 thoughts on “southern italy road trip: from heel to the toe”.

was parking ever an issue in any of these places?

We didn’t have any parking issues on the trip but we did visit in the off-season so surely that helped. I would imagine the Amalfi Coast being a bit more difficult to find an available parking space in the popular summer months so I would plan to possibly walk a bit in case you can’t find anything close. In most places we found either paid parking marked on maps or street parking with relative ease.

Hi, great blog post. Do you remember maybe what your budget for the whole thing ended up being? Thanks xx

Thank you! We averaged about 100-130€ per day for this trip most days between car rental, accommodation, petrol and food/wine (divided amongst the three of us on the trip).

Beautiful photos! This blog post has me craving a trip back to Italy….and for pizza

I wish I had found this before we planned our trip last summer! We missed a few places on your itinerary, like Castlemezaano– it’s freakin’ gorgeous!

Awesome itinerary, thanks for sharing!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Truly Expat

Two Week Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

italian flag on balcony

Most people who travel to Italy and want to explore the country by car opt for  Northern Italy , which  has so many fantastic tourist spots to cover, like  Verona ,  Trento   and  Lake Como  (just to name a few).

However, if you are anything like me and enjoy exploring hidden gems, then maybe a Southern Italy road trip is the perfect way to see the South of Italy’s best. 

Standing in the middle of pompeii

Table of Contents

Southern Italy Road Trip Tips

There are many great places to visit on your Italian r oad trip , but the trick is limiting it to sites that will give you the most fantastic experience in the time frame you have to vacation in. This southern itinerary travel guide will help you plan an already well-driven route through some of the most beautiful places in Southern Italy. 

Car Hire in Italy

Your road trip would not be complete without firstly organizing your car hire. Hiring a car from Naples International Airport is simple; I highly recommend  Discover Cars , where you can book online, choose the company with the best deal, and it will be ready for you when you land.

Important note:  Many cities are off-limit to parking in the city centre walls to protect the historic towns. It would help if you researched each city before entering; many sites will give you the correct information on parking.

Visa in Italy

Check that you do not require a visa for Italy. The   ivisa   website is a quick and easy way to check whether your passport requires a permit or not.

Travel insurance in Italy

SafetyWing   is the world’s first International Travel Medical Insurance developed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and remote workers travelling or living abroad worldwide. Perfect for those who will be away for long periods, live and work abroad or are nomad travellers.

Southern Italy Road Trip planner

Book all your  accommodation   online before you arrive, and then link all of your bookings, tours, reservations and any transportation to your  tripit   app. The Tripit app is a game-changer and has all your itinerary nicely mapped out before you begin your round trip to Northern Italy.  My favourite travelling apps   blog post found other apps that make your Southern Italy itinerary planning more manageable. 

southern italy

Northern Italy Road Trip Route

Day 1:Naples

Day 2:Naples to Pompei

Day 3Naples to Capri

Day 4: Capri to Amalfi Coast

Day 5:Explore Amalfi Coast

Day 6:Explore Almafi Coast

Day 7:Amalfi Coast to Lamezia Terme

Day 8:Explore Lamezia Terme

Day 9:Lamezia Terme to Reggio Calabria

Day 10:explore Reggio Calabria

Day 11:Reggio Calabria to Messina

Day 12Messina to Taormina

Day 13:explore Taormina

Day 14:explore Taormina

road trip to southern italy

Road Trip Around Italy For Two Weeks

Southern italy road trip: day 1 naples.

Arriving in Naples is easy; follow the signs to pick up your car, check your tripit app for your address to your accommodation in Naples, and your road trip to Southern Italy begins. 

Things to do in Naples

What better way to kick off your Southern Italy Road trip than a day in grungy Naples. This city might seem dirty from the outside, but it has some kind of southern Italian charm once you start exploring. 

The best way to experience the city of Naples is on the open-top,  hop-on hop-off bus . With two routes on offer, you will be able to cover ample time during your one day of exploration. Or explore this ancient city on a  private walking tour .   Discover everything from architecture to old historical churches.

Standing tall at Naples Port’s edge, you will find Castel Nuovo (new castle), an impressive medieval Renaissance fortress. The Castel Nuovo is open from Monday to Saturday: 8:30 am to 6 pm, and 10 am to 1 pm on Sunday. 

Another fascinating must-see is the Castel dell’Ovo (Egg Castle), which has defended the city, become a prison and as was once a royal residence. It is said that poet Virgil hid a magical egg here, and if someone broke the egg, he promised that the city would suffer great catastrophes. Not sure if anyone ever found the egg, but the name stuck! The entry is free, so no need to book online. 

Visit Palazzo Reale, where inside, you will find the historic apartment and staircase of honour, amongst other rooms of such beauty. The Royal Palace of Naples was built when Naples was under Spanish rule when the Bourbon Kings ruled the Kingdom of two Sicilies. The  Royal Palace  o pens from 9 am daily, and you can purchase tickets online.

Accommodation

Accommodation in naples.

Splurge –  Renaissance Naples Hotel Mediterraneo – The Marriott franchise can not go wrong; they are always in the best locations and offer the same service worldwide. The Renaissance Naples Hotel Mediterraneo is no different. The best part about this hotel, the daily breakfast on the roof with views over Naples Port. 

Budget –  Una Notte al Museo – It shows you don’t have to pay a lot in Naples to get a great place to sleep. The pensione is only 3 minutes from significant museums and 5 minutes from the city centre. Moreover, parking is available, which is essential if you plan to start on a southern Italy road trip.

standing in the centre of naples

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 2 Naples to Pompeii

Travel time from naples to pompeii.

Travelling from Naples to Pompei will take approximately 30 minutes, but if you are touring the south part of Italy during summer, Pompei can be hot, very hot! So I would highly recommend arriving early or late in the afternoon to save you from the midday sun as there is no shelter.

Things to do in Pompeii

We all know the reason to come to the old town of Pompeii is to see the Unesco world heritage site; the  ruins of Pompeii;   Doors open at 9 am, and tickets can be purchased online. 

Mount Vesuvius made the world heritage site of Pompeii what it is today. So while you are in the area, why not take a guided tour along the  crater of Vesuvius?  If you would like to visit yourself, then you can drive to the lower parking lot and then walk the rest of the way (approximately 30 minutes)

Once you have discovered the UNESCO archaeological sites of Pompeii, drive 20 minutes away and discover  Herculaneum.  This small town is less well known but is as equally as impressive as also blanketed by ash and preserved over these years.

My son on a rock in pompeii

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 3 Naples to Capri

Travel time from naples to capri.

The  ferry  you catch will depend on how long it will take to get there (prices vary). Catch the slow ferry, and you will arrive in just under 1.5 hours, catch the regular ferry and be in Capri in just under 1 hour; however, if you want a faster way to get there, catch the high-speed ferry, and you will be there in 40 minutes. 

Car Parking

If you plan to stay the night on the Island of Capri, you will have to park your car at the  Naples Port . However, parking is not expensive, and the parking station is conveniently located with a shuttle bus service to the port offered for customers.

Things to do on the island of Capri

If you would rather not spend the night on Capri and instead make a day trip, then head over on a   tour   of this beautiful island (including the Blue Grotto). Here you will go on a guided tour of this magical island without the worry of parking the car for the night. 

If you want to see why this island has a reputation as being outstanding, then why not see it from the ocean? Spend a day on a  boat tour  of this beautiful island and its amazing grottos (yes, there is more than one).

Hire a boat from the dock as soon as you arrive on Capri; many different companies are offering a trip out to the Grottoes. These are not tours but a trip to the Grottos, where you then pay another person with a small dingy to visit the actual Grotto’s. 

The Blue Grotto is the most well-known for its history of witches, monsters, and Emperor Tiberius’ personal swimming hole; this spectacular cave is blue beyond blue! Why? Because sunlight passes through the underwater cavity, this reflection illuminates and makes the water so blue that it is breathtaking. 

On the other side of the island of Capri, you will find the Grotta Verde (Green Grotto). The colour in each Grotto is determined by the unique combination of water clarity, light source, cave depth, and Grotto’s size. 

The Grotta Bianca (white cave) has white limestone rocks set against the crystal blue sea, combined with the density of the water and the stalactites and stalagmites, which gives it that spectacular look.

Just a reminder that; all caves will depend on season, and the rise of the ocean, so check before you go. If the sea is too high, you will not have access to the caves. 

Accommodation: 

Splurge:  Relais Maresca Luxury Small Hotel V iews to die for, convenient location for a night stay, this small hotel has it all, right on the coast of one of the prettiest islands in Italy. So stop over for one night or splurge and stay one week; you will not get sick of the views from your room (I promise). 

Budget : Don Raffaé  I f you are looking for value for money, Don Raffae is the perfect place to stay. It is metres from a beautiful little coastal beach with the bus station is minutes away. Choose a room with a terrace to enjoy the entire experience of being on the island of Capri.

sailing to Capri

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 4 to Day 6 Capri to Amalfi Coast

Travel time from naples to positano.

From one slice of heaven to another, today, you will head back to Naples, pick up the car and drive to the Amalfi Coast. Just a short 1.5 hours away from the Naples Port will have you there in time to be relaxing on the beach and enjoying a heartful Italian lunch.

Things to do in Positano 

Spend the entire day relaxing in this beautiful part of Southern Italy. Lay on the beach, enjoy a long lunch and take it easy. You have plenty of time to explore the Amalfi Coast. 

The Amalfi Coast was listed in 1977 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it consists of 13 towns in the region. So there are a lot of exciting areas to explore.

The drive along the Amalfi coastal road is one of the most breathtaking views in Italy. However, it can be slightly terrifying as you zigzag your way along the coastal road.

Spending time on the water may seem luxurious on the Amalfi coast, and to some, it probably is. But you have to experience Amalfi and Positano on a boat tour, where you will stop to explore the towns, swim in the crystal clear ocean and enjoy time snorkelling, amongst other things.

Visit other unique towns such as Sorrento and Ravello. See why people come back here year after year! If you think a private guide would be a better option for exploring the Amalfi villages, try a  tour   where a knowledgeable guide can answer all your questions. 

Drive inland for approximately 1 hour, and you will find  Ferriere Valley,   where you can spend the day hiking the pristine wildness and discover hidden gems (like waterfalls). 

Accommodation in Positano

Splurge –  La Caravella di Positano – The location of La Caravella di Positano says it all. Right on the beach of one of the most talked-about locations in the world. Just 3min walk to the ferries as well as shops and restaurants. The view just takes your breath away.

Budget – La sorgente del sole – La Sorgente del sole offers a great price in this rather expensive town. It also provides a place to park your car, with amazing views from the balconies; the best part is that all apartments boast their kitchen and access to an outdoor hot tub with sunbeds.

sitting on a rock on the beach

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 7 and 8 Positano to Lamezia Terme

Travel time from positano to lamezia terme.

The route from Positano to Lamezia is your longest drive with approximately 4.5 to 5 hours driving time (whether you take the coastal road or go the more direct inland route), you are best to start the day early. 

Things to do in Lamezia Terme

Although there might not seem like there is much to see or do in this little old town in Southern Italy, we all know looks can be deceiving! Why not explore the village by visiting   Museo Archeologico Lametino , Teatro Umberto I and the beautiful Pontile di Lamezia (about a 20 minute drive to the coast).

Accommodation in Lamezia Terme

Splurge –  Albergo Centrale – You won’t be paying ridiculous prices in this part of Italy. Instead, your splurge is nothing more than what you expect to pay for budget accommodation. You will be pleasantly surprised as the rooms are clean and modern and the location is within walking distance of all you need.

Budget –  Carpe Diem – If you only want to pay half the price of Albergo Centrale, then Carpe Diem is highly recommended. Only ten minutes walk away from the centre this highly sort after newly renovated air-conditioned rooms are for rent. With tv, private rooms and a fridge, what else do you need?

standing in front of an old house

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 9 to 10 Lamezia Terme to Reggio Calabria

Travel time from lamezia terme to reggio calabria .

During this 1.5 hours drive, there isn’t much to see of this part of Calabria, as it is less travelled by tourists, with most opting to pass through Calabria and head straight to Sicily. 

Things to do in Reggio Calabria

If you arrive early enough and want to explore more than what Reggio Calabria has to offer, hire a guide and travel to the ghost village of  Pentedattilo , a beautiful town situated on the cliff of Mount Calvario.

Visit one of Italy’s most priced statues at  Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia.  The Riace bronzes were two life-size Greek bronzes of naked bearded warriors cast around 460–450 BC in the sea in 1972 near Riace, Calabria.

Or spend the day at one of Calabria’s many beautiful beaches. The beaches are clean, the water is crystal clear, and the area is less crowded (even in summer). 

Accommodation in Reggio Calabria

Splurge –  Grand Hotel Excelsior’ – The Grand Hotel Excelsior is ideally located between the beach and the city centre, beside The National Archaeological Museum. Some rooms have sea views (well worth the few dollars extra).

Budget  –  B&B Santa Caterina – B&B Santa Caterina is a 15-minute walk from Reggio Calabria’s seafront. With air-conditioned rooms and value for money, you can’t go past this pensione. 

View of the sea

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 11 Reggio Calabria to Messina

Travel time from reggio calabria to messina.

Driving from Reggio Calabria to the Villa San Giovanni ferry pier is approximately 15 minutes. However, be warned that there can be a long wait getting onto the ferry, so arrive early and check ferry times before you get there. 

The Messina ferry takes approximately 25 minutes, and   tickets  can be bought online or at the  Villa San Giovanni  f erry pier. When arriving in Messina, it will take you under 5 minutes to get to the city centre.

Things to do in Messina

As the third-largest city in Sicily, this bustling town has much to offer as you start your final leg of this Southern Italy road trip. Start at the Duomo di Messina, then head to the belltower and if you want more history, then continue to  The Regional Interdisciplinary Museum of Messina . Otherwise, visit the Piazza, sit down for a long lunch and enjoy what Sicily offers. 

Accommodation in Messina

Splurge –   Villa Pulejo – If you are willing to drive 15 minutes away from the city centre, you will find yourself at Villa Pulejo. You will find yourself at the most magical place, far away from the hustle and bustle of Messina. This magnificent hotel has a bar, spa and wellness centre, swimming pool, hot tub and tennis court – need I say more?

Budget  –  Caio Duilio B&B – If laying your head to rest somewhere close to amenities is what you are after, then Caio Duilio B&B is the perfect place for you to stay the night. The pensione is clean, modern, and the friendly staff make the experience memorable.

on the ferry to messina with the car

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 12 Messina to Taormina

Travel time from messina to taormina.

The drive from Messina town centre to Taormina will have you there within the hour. As the trip is such a short distance, this allows you to spend the morning relaxing, as taking off too early isn’t necessary for your final journey on this southern Italy road trip. 

Things to do in Taormina

Oh Taormina, what a wonderful place to finish your two-week southern Italy road trip. This ancient town in Sicily is beautiful to the eye and magical to the soul. Why? Well, it is hard to put in words what makes this part of Italy so unique; for some reason, it makes my heart sing. 

Spend the day laying on the sunbeds, swimming in the ocean and eating incredible food. If that isn’t enough, go for a walk through The   Corso Umberto, the main street of Taormina, and you will see why it has been christened “the Sicilian Saint Tropez “.  Spend the afternoon right in the centre of Corso Umberto at  Piazza IX Aprile, where there are many cafes to rest your tired legs. 

Explore Taormina and the historical sites like the  Greek Theatre of Taormina  a nd St Nichola’s cathedral of Taormina ( Duomo di Taormina) . Or spend the day getting lost in the maze of arches and backstreets this beautiful town has to offer! Eat alfresco, stroll the streets, grab a gelato and take in the atmosphere! 

Accommodation in Taormina

Splurge  –  Hotel Villa Belvedere – Hotel Villa Belvedere is within a 5 minutes’ walk from Taormina’s Corso Umberto. Ideally located, spectacular views and boasts a private swimming pool. The Hotel Villa Belvedere has an old-world charm that suites a modern-day perspective. The perfect stop for the end of your road trip.

Budget  –  Hotel Lido Mediterranee – Okay, so it isn’t quite budget, budget, but for the price and location, it is truly worth more than what you pay. With views over the ocean, a private beach, and being only a 5-minute drive from the city centre, you really can’t beat the Hotel Lido Mediterranee for value for money.

standing in front of the steps

Southern Italy Road Trip Day 13 and Day 14: Explore Taormina

Whether your last days are spent solely in Taormina (I don’t blame you here) or you feel like exploring this beautiful area is more your thing. It is totally up to you, but here are some great ideas for day trips from Taormina if you choose the latter. 

Taormina day trips 

Head out to  Mount Edna   and get up-close and personal to the volcano. Listed as a World Heritage site in 2013, both the highest volcano in Europe and one of the most active volcanoes globally. Please note: The distance from Taormina city centre to Mount Edna is just over an hours drive. 

Savoca and Forza d’Agrò 

Visit the towns of Savoca and Forza d’Agrò and relive the   Godfather   movie by visiting where the Corleone’s ate, drank and got married. Please note: The distance from Taormina city centre to Savoca is approximately 40 minutes.

If you are travelling with kids (or even if you aren’t), spend the day at Sicily’s waterpark,  Etnaland . Sicily can be dry and very hot during summer, so this is the perfect way to escape the summer heat. Please note: The distance from Taormina city centre to Etnaland is approximately a 1-hour drive. 

standing in front of the etnaland sign

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love to share them in the comment section below!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I/we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my/our  full disclosure   for further information.

Check out my  Instagram page  or join the Truly Expat   Facebook group. 

Pin it for later!

sitting on a rock in the sea

You may also like

Two weeks northern italy road trip itinerary

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Copyright © 2022 

Site Ending Soon

Site will be ending soon and the new website addresses are

Intrepid Escape

  • Bungy Jumping
  • Horse Riding
  • Ice-Climbing
  • Kite-Surfing
  • Motor Sport
  • Rock Climbing
  • Scuba Diving
  • Shark Diving
  • Snowboarding
  • Stand Up Paddle-Boarding
  • Wakeboarding
  • White Water Rafting

The Best Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary In 2024

Page Contents

For a lot of European travellers (myself included), planning a Southern Italy road is an excellent idea, since this part of the country is relatively unexplored.

In fact, it seems to be more popular to travel in the north and it’s better connected and has some of the major cities. But please don’t let that stop you venturing into the south!

Yes, you’ll need a car. Yes, it’s off the beaten track. And yes, many people won’t speak English. But that’s exactly the reason you should go. This kind of travel is rugged and authentic, something not easily found in Europe. Basilicata is also the second least visited of the 21 regions of Italy.

These are exactly the reasons you should go, which leads me on nicely to a few extra points below.

Is Basilicata worth visiting?

Absolutely. As one of the least travelled regions in Italy, Basilicata is very affordable. It has amazing history and stunning small Borghi.

Borghi : small towns or communities usually perched on the top of a mountain or vista, the singular also known as a Borgho.

In your road trip south Italy, make sure to include Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and as you’d expect in Italy some amazing food to enjoy, including ‘Lucanica di Picerno’, the pork sausage.

Where is Basilicata?

Basilicata is a region in the south of Italy, and one of the least visited. There are two coastlines in Basilicata, the Tyrrhenian Sea between Campania and Calabria and the Gulf of Taranto.

How to Get to Southern Italy?

Getting to Basilicata is easiest from the city of Naples and its international airport. There are plenty of places at the airport to hire a car and you will need one for travelling around Basilicata. I don’t recommend spending much time in Naples.

Our trip was to focus on the previously mentioned Borghi, effectively linking 9 hidden gems into one road trip. Many of these you won’t have heard of, and as you see the photos and read my words you’ll wonder why. As did I.

Why aren’t these places better travelled? Why aren’t they going viral on Instagram? Well let’s try to change that.

Best Tours in Southern Italy

If you don’t plan, or can’t drive in Italy, then the best way to discover South Italy is to sign up for a tour. But there are several trip to join and it can be confusing to understand which one is the best.

Let me make is easier for you – These are the 3 best tours to consider when in Southern Italy.

Day Trip in Basilicata

The best way to visit Basilicata is to sign up for this tour , which leaves from different places, including Rome, Matera, or even Potenza.

This tour will cover many hidden gems around Basilicata with an excellent service from the driver and tour guide, and you can offer the South Italy road trip itinerary in this guide.

Check out the tour here below!

8 Days Best of Puglia and Basilicata

A more comprehensive and longer trip is this full tour of Puglia and Basilicata, and they hand-picked some of the most stunning locations in Southern Italy for a cultural and relaxing adventure.

The tour start in Bari, where you’ll be taken to your luxurious 4-star village before embarking on your exploration.

Over the next 8 days, you’ll be taken on a private tour to breathtaking places such as Alberobello, Locorotondo, Matera Sassi, Metaponto, Policoro, Craco, Aliano, and Pollino.

The guide will accompany you for a two-hour tour at each destination, providing you with insider stories and exciting facts about the history, culture and traditions of each area.

Our next stop took us to the Basilicata Coast, still in Potenza and to the medieval town of Maratea . Maratea is known for a few things, firstly as “the Pearl of the Tyrrhenian” and the town with 44 churches!

Maratea is known as “the Pearl of the Tyrrhenian”

But I knew it for a different reason, I’d seen the incredible Italian version of Christ the Redeemer ( Il Redentore ) standing tall above the coastline, and what a site that was. We arrived as the sun was setting, so the statue was to be our first stop.

It’s a 22-metre-high statue opposite the Basilica of San Biagio , it’s an astonishing structure. We drove there as the light was fading, but in truth I wish we had hiked there first thing in the morning. Either way this simply a must see in Maratea, and in Southern Italy in general.

Maratea has a thriving harbour featuring a few upmarket bars and shops, or you could get lost in the cobbled streets of the old town. But it’s really known for its hiking and cycling. You are spoiled for choice on the Tyrrhenian coast , with countless mountains and hidden beaches. Or why not cycle up to Il Redentore? You’ll certainly earn that view.

Best Tour in Maratea

Do you have little time to see Maratea and want to make the most of it? The answer is joining this private tour which is both affordable and comprehensive.

The tour guide will show you everything from the views from Mount San Biagio to the Basilica in town, as well as some local cafes and restaurants serving some of the best food you’ll ever try.

Of course, you’ll stop at the Christ the Redeemer statue, which is the second largest in the world, after the one in Rio de Janeiro.

I just can’t imagine a cooler tour to join!

Our next Borgho in the province of Potenza is Latronico, one hour’s drive from Maratea. It’s firstly worth noting that this town will be a little cooler than the others, at an elevation of 888 metres.

Latronico is much quieter the previous two Borghi’s and has a smaller population. There are a few hiking spots in the area and close by you have the Pollino National Park and the highest peak of Serra Dolcedorme at 2267 metres.

You can drop by the Museo Del Termalismo art gallery or even the Terme Lucane Spa. Terme Lucane is well worth visiting for the local walking and stunning waterfalls, but personally the spa felt more like a medical centre.

Moving onto the Province of Matera now and to the picture-perfect town of Aliano. This will take you just over one hour to reach from Latronico. It’s our smallest so far.

I’d seen this stunning Borgho a few times in my research into Basilicata. The stunning location of the town on a ridge overlooking the Calanchi region. It’s also known as the setting for Carlo Levi’s book ‘Christ Stopped at Eboli’.

Carlo Levi was a popular author, activist, painter, journalist, and doctor who was exiled to Aliano in 1935. There are statues and museums dedicated to his work, and even his final resting place.

As we arrived, we were greeted by colourful street art, Carlo Levi statue and amazing views. It has a great vibe to it, and most of the locals were extremely welcoming.

Just a handful of places were open (we were travelling in October, a shoulder season). The evening was interesting, with only one restaurant opening at 8pm and serving a €25 16-course set menu. No chance to choose, no translation, no vegetarian option (I like to be meet-free if I can), but wine included. We decided to get stuck in, not that we had much choice.

We were eating at Taverna La Contadina Sisina , which we later discovered is well-known favourite locally. During the meal, we researched the restaurant. Sisina started serving food to local poor people, using only locally sourced and cheap produce, she later started a restaurant with her popular recipes.

Supporting places like this is what travelling in off-the-beaten track locations is all about, and I highly recommend you visit. Unless you’re vegetarian!

“A place where time stands still”, said the owner of our guesthouse (detailed below). Rabatana overlooks the town of Tursi, which feels like an overcrowded bustling city compared with Rabatana. It’s not, that’s just to emphasise the peaceful existence of Rabatana.

We are still in the province of Matera, and Tursi is just 45 minutes from Aliano, but as I said above allow some time to see the Calanchi.

Rabatana has an incredible history, and dates back to the year 800. It was built by the Saracens, who ran the town for 400 years whilst others around them were defeated. It was probably due to the unique location of the Borghi.

You’ll notice Rabatana is a work in progress, much of the town needs restoration and TLC. But some places have been lovingly restored. We met Antonio, an owner of one of those restored guesthouses and restaurants; Palazzo dei Poeti . He talked of people escaping their busy lives to ‘breathe and open their minds’ here in Rabatana.

As I sipped my morning espresso from the view at the Manderine, Orangery Retreat I saw exactly what he meant.

Depending on when you visit, you may need to travel into Tursi for food. If so, I recommend a traditional pizza at Braceria da Diego. But please stay at the guesthouse below.

Rabatana is a true hidden gem, and one of my favourite Borghi’s so far.

The final Borghi in the province of Matera, and just 40 minutes by car from Tursi is the Pisticci, the ‘white town of Basilicata’.

At first impression it felt busier than previous Borghi’s, and with a population of nearly 18,000 it’s one of the largest we would be visiting. It’s another town located on a stunning spot perched on top of three hills.

We headed to the old town and the Dirupo District, where you can walk the cobbled streets and get a view of the town. These views even stretch as far as the Ionian Sea.

You can walk up to highest and oldest point of Pisticci, Torrevecchia , a square tower that was once part of the Norman castle. It’s quite a sight and certainly stands out in my drone photography of the town. Amazing.

This region is still part of the clay formed Calanchi region, meaning there are more of the ‘badlands’ to explore, but also making it susceptible to landslides. This has been a challenging factor of this region’s history and the rebuilding of Pisticci.

Our next Borghi is around 1.5 hours from Pisticci, however it’s here you might chose to stop at Matera . No article about Basilicata would be complete without referencing Matera, it’s an incredible place, but we are focusing on the lesser-known Borghi’s in this trip.

Acerenza is another one of the smaller Borghi’s on the trip, in the province of Potenza. It’ another Borgho at a high elevation as 833 metres. The elevation combined with the nearby Lake Acerenza gives a unique fog that often engulfs the village, as when we first arrived. Driving though narrow streets not being able to see 5 metres in front of you was certainly a challenge!

Azerenza is nicknamed the Cathedral City , as the imposing towers dominate the view of the ancient town. The Cathedral of Saint Mary is the first place of interest here and a must visit in Acerenza. It’s a Roman Catholic cathedral with a unique crypt dating back to 1524.

The second place you must visit is the Museo Diocesano Acerenza . Featuring many ancient artifacts and treasures from the cathedral and Archbishops. It also features every Archbishop through time, and this kind of history really blows my mind!

It took us just under 1 hour to drive to Venosa, in the province of Potenza. It’s a town with fantastic history and archaeological importance.

Our first stop was the Venosa Aragonese Castle , where they explained that both the open-air archaeological park and archaeological museum below the castle were just €2.50 entry. Fantastic value.

After a look around the castle, we headed to Scavi Archeologici di Venosa , a breath-taking site with remains of the Latin colony of Venusia founded in 291 BC! Let that sink in. The fully restored Abbey of the Holy Trinity is quite a sight to behold, and the Benedictine Abbey dates back to the Norman Era.

We then headed to the museum which has recently been modernised. Sadly, the Jewish catacombs are not open to the public at this time.

We had pizza (yes, another one) at Il Brigante pizzeria trattoria, by Michele Leo. Michele has a fascinating story, and this pizzeria is one I can recommend.

Best Tour in Venosa

You might not have enough time on your southern Italy itinerary for Venosa, and for this reason, joining a 2-hour walking tour is a no-brainer, and I couldn’t recommend it enough.

This tour is not just a stroll through history, but a journey that takes you through time to discover one of Italy’s best-kept secrets.

Begin your adventure at the Archaeological Park where you can witness the remainders of the ancient Roman Empire. Marvel at the thermal baths, the domus, and the SS.

After this, you’ll continue your journey to the historic center and marvel at the 16th-century Aragonese castle Pirro del Balzo. Explore the national archaeological museum and uncover the Roman finds that tell the story of Venosa’s past.

This tour is perfect for both history buffs and adventure seekers, and that’s why I highly recommend it!

Rionero in Vulture

Our final Borgho on this trip was Rionero in Vulture, located on the slopes of Monte Vulture and just a short 30-minute drive from Venosa.

It’s a town well-known for its mineral water and hiking. And in truth, we spent most of the day hiking to and from Rionero, instead of exploring the town itself.

We started our hike in the Belvedere Forest , with plans to head down to Lake Monticchio . We had some fantastic guides explaining about chestnut season and the importance of the forest in traditional medicines. Every step of the way spotting amazing views of Lake Monticchio.

Before reaching the bottom, we stopped at San Michele Abbey , a monastery and place of worship carved into the side of the mountain with spectacular views over the lake. This is a place that really must be seen to be believed.

The lake itself was a popular local hangout, especially being the weekend. It was great to see so many people enjoying Lake Monticchio.

Our final stop of the hike before lunch was the Archaeological Park of Sant’Ippolito . You must have permission from a local guide or historian, but it’s another fascinating example of the history on offer in the region of Basilicata.

And just like that we finished a long day in the Borgho of Rionero, where we just had time to explore Palazzo Fortunato and review the trip for our video. If we had time, I would have also loved to visit the Bourbon Prison and Brigandage Museum, so add these to your itinerary.

I felt like we blended in with the locals in the Palazzo, drinking espresso and discussing the day. I am starting to enjoy this kind of lifestyle and will be back in Basilicata again very soon.

This article was written in partnership with the Italian Tourism Board and their Viaggio Italiano project. But as always, the photography used, and opinions are all my own. Thanks for reading and happy travels.

Founder & Editor of Intrepid Escape, a huge lover of adventure, adrenaline, sport & fitness. After travelling extensively for the last 12 years, Scott started to document his travels before fulfilling an important lifelong goal by starting Intrepid Escape. He has since become a full-time Travel Writer, Videographer, Presenter and Producer.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

road trip to southern italy

SOUTHERN ITALY ROAD TRIP: NAPLES TO SICILY

Few regions on earth have the remarkable combinations of cultures that you find on a southern Italy road trip from Naples to Sicily.

This is not hyperbole. At 47, Italy actually does have the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

So where else would a die-hard culture vulture and history lover go but on a 2-week drive from Naples to Palermo, the capital of Sicily?

I hope this 1,300-mile southern Italy road trip will inspire you to visit these sites and absorb the history that has gone into making the south of Italy what it is today.

While you’re at it, absorb the pasta and wine too!

>> Download a PDF of this post here. <<

great stop on southern Italy roadtrip

Before taking off on your epic road trip, be sure to make time to explore the Amalfi Coast and particularly Capri , the magical isle. Or, combine your trip to include the ultimate Puglia road trip. 

Southern Italy has reasonably good rail service, but your best bet, if you’re driving from Naples to Sicily, is to rent a car .

You’ll need a car to navigate the narrow streets of some ancient towns and to visit archaeological sites that may be far from the cities. Check out these useful tips for driving in Italy.

Table of Contents

The Best Naples to Sicily Road Trip

Naples, the location of the National Archaeological Museum

Naples is famous for many things – yes, pizza is up there on the list – but another standout is the National Archeological Museum with its collections spanning millennia.

And within that archaeological candy store is a very intriguing collection of erotic art in the “secret room.”

Napoli’s art world has had a love-hate relationship with this collection for years. First, it was banned for centuries. 

Later the collection was offered only to “respectable” adult men who could afford the exorbitant entrance fee. Then it was banned again.

Finally, it crossed into the realm of fine art and achieved its current status as an intriguing archeological collection. But even today, kids need to be accompanied by an adult in order to see the exhibit.

As anyone knows, one way to make something desirable is to make it difficult to obtain. 

Naturally, off we went in search of the “secret room” in the National Archeological Museum in Naples with its extensive collection of Greek and Roman antiquities.

They have two officials guarding the artwork, one at the entrance and one in the hall containing the collection.

The guard discouraged us from lingering over the phallic symbols by prodding and ushering us towards the exit.  I almost felt like a teenager caught doing something illicit and risqué.

In the “secret room” the guards behaved like they were being coerced into exposing visitors to something distasteful.

In another town, we learned that the local religious authorities ordered the nude statues surrounding a fountain to be covered! Imagine putting a loin cloth on Michelangelo’s David!

road trip to southern italy

Besides the “secret room” another art piece attracted me at the museum; the 2000-year-old portrait of Terentus Neo and his wife, above, posing as Roman aristocrats. 

The real story is that this couple, although wealthy and successful, were low-social-status bakers masquerading as upper-class Roman citizens.

I felt a little sorry for them.  They could very well have become upper-class due to diligence and hard work.  Nevertheless, they have gone down in history as imposters. No justice.

Nearby Pompeii has another collection of erotica on a larger scale with well-preserved artefacts. These erotic frescoes in Pompeii are a beautiful and timeless today as they were when first created.  

Naples National Archaeological Museum has fine collection

And then there is pizza, another big draw in this wonderfully chaotic city.

Pizza is a big deal in Naples.The city certainly lives up to its nickname, the capital of pizza.

Pizza is practically a religion in Naples…and with good reason. The varieties are legend including some of the largest varieties of vegetarian pizza known to man.

If you are in Naples, you are obligated to have pizza. It’s the law. Long established restaurants vie for the title of “The Best Pizza in Naples.” There are several pizza restaurants right outside the Archeological Museum.

But is not just about pizza.  Here is a list of 12 things to eat in Naples and a handy list of 8 free things to  see in Naples. Enjoy!

And if you are looking for the perfect  one day itinerary in Naples, look no further than here .

Although not technically part of the Amalfi Coast , Naples is part of the gateway to the coast.

The Amalfi coast is about cuisine, culture, history and all good things.

Where to stay in Naples, Italy .

On to Matera on this Naples to Sicily road trip. Matera is a wild, mystical dream.

If Salvador Dali and Hieronymus Bosch collaborated in creating a city, Matera would be it. It’s as if the word “otherworldly” was created just so it could describe Matera.

The town was carved straight out of the surrounding mountains. As such it is known as “la Città Sotterranea” (the Subterranean City) and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is so surreal that and unique many movies have been filmed there including Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ, The Omen and the most recent Ben Hur. #Matera is an otherworldly #UNESCO World Heritage site and the perfect stop on your southern Italy road trip. #southernItalyroadtrip Click To Tweet

The best restaurants in Matera are underground or in caves. So are many homes, stores, and churches.

  My favorite underground establishment is the underground museum. I felt sorry for these unusual works of art existing as they do in the darkness, never seeing the light of day.

Wandering the tunnels witnessing the surprising exhibits is truly a unique experience.

Matera, a stop on the southern Italy road trip

At the very tip of the Italian boot in Reggio Calabria is the town of Villa San Giovanni.

Here is where you take the ferry to Messina in Sicily. Crossing from mainland Italy to the island of Sicily on a car ferry is, shall we say…interesting and perhaps the most challenging aspect of this road trip in the south of Italy.

The car ferry takes 30 minutes and costs about €35. The crossing itself is smooth sailing.

The challenge is navigating the car onto the ferry with its narrow paths and sharp turns. One more reason to make sure you rent a small and maneuverable car as you possibly can.

Here’s a good site for finding car rental companies.

Read more about Matera here .

Entering Sicily

Sicily has been at the crossroads of the Mediterranean for millennia. Many cultures have added their thumbprint to this island either through conquest or colonization.

These include; Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Vandals, Arabs, Normans, Spanish, and others. The influence these cultures have left in Sicily is evident, particularly in the electric architectural styles.

Many of the most remarkable structures; churches, palaces, boast a mixture of Byzantine, Arabesque, Norman and Gothic influences, a combination that is unique to Sicily.

Immigrants have never stopped enriching Sicily’s heritage. Today they come from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, China, Romania, Ghana, Philippines, and Morocco.

Heading south upon entering Sicily, one of the first cities you encounter is Taormina with its imposing Greek Amphitheater built in the 3rd century BCE.

Taormina, a stop on the southern Italy road trip

It is still used today for performances. Taormina is an ancient city with a rich heritage.

The main pedestrian street, Corso Umberto, winds through a well-preserved collection of medieval buildings. People-watching in a cafe on Corso Umberto is a must-do activity in Taormina.

Where to stay in Taormina.

Read more about Taormina here .

Magical Ortygia

Continuing south from Taormina you will find Siracusa (Syracuse) with its impressive amphitheater and archeological museum.  Across the bridge from this historic city is the adjacent island of Ortygia.

road trip to southern italy

This town is even older than Siracusa as it is the original settlement.  Between Siracusa and Ortygia there is so much to see in this area.

When looking for accommodations, stay in Ortygia rather than Siracusa.

Wandering the narrow alleyways and hidden trattorias of this island town is like stepping back in history.

Don’t be surprised when those alleyways suddenly open on spectacular plazas, brilliant fountains and ancient ruins.

At this point on the southern Italy road trip, all signs are pointing to Agrigento .

Resist the temptation to head straight to Agrigento and make a detour to Villa Romana del Casale. This is an exceptionally well-preserved Roman villa.

Despite its name, the villa is more similar to a royal Roman palace.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an amazing, well excavated archaeological complex with the best-preserved collection of Roman mosaics in existence.

road trip to southern italy

Built in the 4th century AD, Villa Romana del Casale was severely damaged at various times in its history until it was finally abandoned in the 12th century after it was buried under a landslide.

Excavations took place throughout the 20th century and the mosaics survived relatively intact.

Seeing these magnificent works of art is another one of those travel moments where you feel a connection to the past.

It is an emotional experience to see such a high level of artistic achievement created 2000 years ago. Do not miss this!

Read more about Ortygia here .

You’ve seen pictures of the Greek ruins scattered throughout Agrigento’s temple complex on Sicily’s sunny southern coast.

The Valley of Temples is the most recognizable temple with several graceful structures but the Tempio della Concordia is the most impressive.

Agrigento stop on the southern Italy road trip

Here is a structure that was already centuries old when the Roman first explored the area and laid eyes it. In the Middle Ages, the temple fell into disrepair and was dismantled.

The stones were used for housing by the local population.

Still, even in this deteriorated state, it is possible to see these archaeological masterpieces and envision the grandeur of past ages.

Where to stay in Agrigento.  

Read more about Agrigento here .

After savoring Sicily’s southern coast, a good next step is to head north straight for the jewel in Sicily’s crown, the capital city of Palermo and the nearly Monreale.

Depending on the approach to Palermo, you could either visit Monreale on your way to or from Palermo or stay in Palermo and visit Monreale as a day trip offered by various tours.

Monreale is only about eight kilometers southwest of Palermo and it is another can’t miss archeological wonderland.

Monreale cloister on the southern Italy road trip

If you are into architecture and history, the cathedral of Monreale is the picture you will conjure up in your mind whenever you think about this southern Italy road trip.

The cathedral and its accompanying cloisters area a unique mix of the cultures that once inhabited the area and left their mark.

It dates to the 12th century and exhibits elements of Norman, Byzantine and Gothic styles.

I don’t know of any structures elsewhere that combine these styles. The effect is mesmerizing.

Right outside the cathedral on a broad side street are a small collection of restaurants with exceptional food at reasonable prices.

Read more about Monreale here .

Last stop on the road trip from Naples to Sicily is  Palermo . You are in for a treat.

Palermo is the unofficial capital of world heritage sites (I just awarded it that designation). Why? Because Italy has the most UNESCO Cultural World Heritage sites, Sicily has the most sites in Italy and Palermo is the capital of Sicily.

Palermo cathedral on the southern Italy road trip

It’s hard to describe Palermo. Winding streets suddenly lead into sun-splashed plazas with baroque fountains sprouting water from mythical creatures.

Crumbling palazzos dating from the middle have been transformed into museums where you can browse stately homes of the past Sicilian nobility.

Street parties, food fairs, and festivals will suddenly erupt on Palermo’s many pedestrian streets.

Palermo is a religious city with many saints’ feast days. You are likely to come across a religious procession straight out of The Godfather movie.

The city’s Cathedral is another example of unusual and distinctive architecture.

Palazzo Siciliano

Despite the cultural, architectural and historical marvels that Palermo offers,  the real attraction is in the city’s streets and markets. Sample the food in one of the many street food stalls throughout the city.

The tasty snacks sell for as little as €1 – €2 and include seafood right off the trawlers, arancini, delicious fried rice balls and, of course, the ubiquitous pizza.

Food markets are a major Sicilian attraction. Ballaro Market is one of three major ones in town. It is worth a visit to experience a part of Sicilian daily life and to see some very strange looking vegetables.

Read more about Palermo here .

Where to stay in Palermo, Italy.

Want more Sicily, here is a two-week itinerary sure to whet your appetite.

And if you’re looking to see other regions, here are some of the best places to visit in Italy .

A southern Italy road trip is a great opportunity to experience a great and ancient culture that has endured for thousands of years. 

What part of this southern Italy road trip is YOUR favorite?

Don’t forget to join our Facebook Group .

>>Like this post? Download a PDF of it here. <<

Research Southern Italy before you go using these useful guides:

Moon Southern Italy: Sicily, Puglia, Naples & the Amalfi Coast

BTW, if you are getting ready for your trip, make sure to take advantage of these useful,  money-saving links  to book your trip:

  • Research and  book your flight  with  Skyscanner . I have found them to be the best because they list all airlines including the budget ones. You are always sure of having researched all options.
  • For  car rental around the world, Discover Cars has flexible pickup and drop-off options, I recommend   Discover Cars .
  • Book your accommodation  with  Booking.com . I find they have a wide selection and a nice, user-friendly, transparent website.
  • Protect your trip  and, more importantly, protect yourself with travel insurance. I use  Travelinsurance.com  and have been very happy with them.
  • Looking for a  small group tour  to unforgettable destinations with top professionals?  Intrepid Trave l is your choice.
  • For more  general tours  to any destination or attraction,  book with   Viator . Check them out.
  • Need a visa?   Get your visa  for all countries with   Passport Visa Exp ress.
  • Looking for a cool walking tour to explore a city? My favorite walking tours are offered by Take Walks.
  • Food and drink tours are the best way to enjoy a city. And Devour Tours are my favorite.
  • Looking for a good VPN to protect your security, privacy and freedom online while traveling? Nordvpn is your best option.

I personally use, and can recommend, all the companies listed here and elsewhere on my blog. By booking through these sites, the small commission we earn – at no cost to you – helps us maintain this site so we can continue to offer our readers valuable travel tips and advice.

Talek Nantes

Talek Nantes

4 thoughts on “southern italy road trip: naples to sicily”.

road trip to southern italy

Talek, Taormina is a destination that I want to visit. I enjoyed your blog as I learnt more about southern Italy. I’ve travelled to southern Italy four times and once again realise how much more there is to see and do. More destinations to travel to … Thank you, Cathy

road trip to southern italy

I too was surprised at how much there was to see and do in southern Italy. You are really never “done” seeing this place. The Roman mosaics in Villa Casale and the cathedral at Monreale were my favorites. And the food! OMG, the food! Thank you for reading and commenting.

road trip to southern italy

By the way, it is an interesting fact that in general Italians travel mainly on foot (94%) and in their own car (79%). But I flew to Sicily and there are a lot of cars and parking lots. There seem to be more parking spaces than people. All of them mostly drive small cars. so I rented such a small car to travel around the cities of Italy.

Interesting facts. Thank you for commenting.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

road trip to southern italy

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases. Posts may contain affiliate links. If you click on one of them, we may receive a commission at no cost to you.

road trip to southern italy

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

road trip to southern italy

Lets Connect

Privacy policy.

web analytics

The Geographical Cure

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.

view from Castle Sant'Elmo in Naples

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.

Pinterest pin for 10 days in southern Italy itinerary

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.

road trip to southern italy

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.

Hotel Caruso in Ravello

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

Masseria San Domenico

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!

Il Melograno

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

Via Tribunali in Naples

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.

Santa Chiara Cloister

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.

Caravaggio's Flagellation of Christ

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! 

frescos in Stabian Baths

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.

crater of Mount Vesuvius

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 .

view of the Faraglioni rocks in Capri

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.

street in Anacapri

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 .

Positano

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.

Positano

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.

Amalfi Town

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 .

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.

bronze doors of Ravello Cathedral

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 .

Maatera

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 .

sassi of Matera

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.

video of the sassi of Matera

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.

Santa Maria d'Idris Church

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.

Church of St. Anthony in 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.

Ostuni

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.

view of Monopoli's harbor

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

Lama Monachile in Polignano a Mare

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.

Via Roma, the main drag

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

Rione Monte in Alberobello

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.

road trip to southern italy

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.

cityscape with trulli

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 .

uins of a Roman amphitheater in Lecce

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.

Piazza del Duomo

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.

nave of the Basilica di Santa Croce

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.

road trip to southern italy

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.

road trip to southern italy

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 .

Ostuni

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. 

me in ravelllo9

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.

alley in Monopoli

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.

Alberobello

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.

ravioli caprese

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.

focaccia in Alberobello

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

If you need a 10 days in southern Italy itinerary, pin it for later.

Pinterest pin for 10 days in southern Italy itinerary

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Last Updated on June 20, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

My Itchy Travel Feet

My Itchy Travel Feet

The Baby Boomer's Guide To Travel

Visiting Italy’s Heel on a Southern Italy Road Trip

This article may contain referral links. Read our DISCLOSURE

Italy is a favorite destination for boomer travelers, including us. A few years ago, we enjoyed a guided road trip in Northern Italy . And then Italy called our names again. This time—a Southern Italy road trip.

Claudia Fontana from Italy A La Carte met us at the Hilton Rome Airport for the drive to southern Italy, then dropped us off 12 days later at our cruise ship in Civitavecchia.

Claudio plans the itinerary, we approve it; he provides a list of lodging, we choose our favorites. For an up front fee that is all-inclusive, Claudio makes the arrangements as well as drives, interprets, guides and tells us what to eat during our Italian road trips. It’s the perfect combination.

The trip’s focus was a journey down the country’s Adriatic coastline all the way to the heel of Italy’s boot. On this off-the-beaten-path road trip in Southern Italy, we discovered charming villages, delicious food and friendly Italians. We’d go again in a heartbeat.

Boomer Travel Tip

We’ll be adding more articles from this Southern Italy road trip itinerary so be sure to bookmark this page. Or subscribe to our weekly broadcast so you’ll be the first to know!

Southern Italy Road Trip

What we loved most about this trip was the off-the-beaten-path feeling of visiting less touristed areas of Italy. Some claim that this is the most authentic region of Italy. All I know is that we enjoyed charming villages, unique experiences and exquisite food. Below you’ll find articles describing our Southern Italy trip plus a detailed itinerary at the end.

The Basilica of Sant'Andrea in Subiaco, Italy

Stopping in Subiaco

On a Subiaco walking tour, cobblestone alleys twist and turn down the hillside from Subiaco’s old town to the commercial center. Alan looks at me and says, “This is the real Italy.” Ochre-colored buildings with stone accents line the narrow streets. The delicious smells of lunch preparations waft through an open window. Is this how […]

Il Lavatoio offers charming lodging in Castel di Sangro.

Quaint Il Lavatoio: Staying in an Italian Wash House in Castel di Sangro

If you enjoy traveling Italy as much as Alan and I do, part of the reason is probably those quaint accommodations that ooze with charm. We certainly found that to be true on a stay in Castel di Sangro in the province of L’Aquilla. Read our Il Lavatoio review to find out why we quickly […]

Boats in the harbor at San Domino in Italy's Tremiti Islands

Tremiti Islands: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure in Italy

Want to go off-the-beaten-path in Italy? Visit the Tremiti Islands off Italy’s Gargano Peninsula. Okay, I’m sure that most Italians and Western Europeans know about these tiny islands near the Adriatic coast. But how many Americans visit? Alan and I are raising our hands, here, and giving you reasons to add them to your next […]

Alan and Donna Hull in Trani, Italy

Walking With History in Trani

On a Southern Italy road trip, Trani turned out to be one of our favorite destinations—one that Alan and I have talked about visiting again on our own. Along with Claudio Fontana of A La Carte Italy Tours, our guide for the trip, and Stephanie, a local expert, we spent the better part of two days […]

walkway along seaside with village in the background

Off the beaten path in Otranto, Italy

There are few things that make our travel feet itchy more than the thought of going off the beaten path in Italy. From road trips through Northern and Southern Italy, to bustling Rome, we’ve featured quite a bit about one of our favorite European countries. But today, guest contributor, Sharon Kurtz, is taking us off-the-beaten-path […]

Sassi settlement in Matera

Walking With History in Matera, Italy

On a visit to Matera, Italy, history grabs you by the hand and says, “come walk with me.” And it’s not hard to do. Use our experience to create your personal self guided walking tour of Matera. Alan and I explored Matera with our guide, Claudio Fontana, of A La Carte Italy Tours. While planning […]

Tremiti Islands

Southern Italy Photos to Inspire Your Next Boomer Trip

You’re all probably familiar with the old saying, “a picture is worth a thousand words.” When planning a travel itinerary that saying is definitely true. Our Southern Italy photos document a twelve-day Southern Italy road trip that remains a favorite for Alan and me. Claudia Fontana from Italy A La Carte met us at the […]

small street in an Italian village

Italy Travel Planner

Read our Italy Travel Planner before your next trip to Italy. Discover travel guides, resources, tips, where to go and gear for an Italian boomer travel adventure.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Best Apps For Italy Travel

Did you know that the best Italy travel app can improve upon your Italian adventure? Whether you’re trying to communicate, checking a train schedule or contemplating which delicious pasta to try, there’s a travel app for that!  I’ve curated the best apps for Italy travel, no matter how you intend to explore this beautiful country. […]

Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

Check out the Southern Italy itinerary that Claudio sent us (we just love his descriptions!). He called it: Down the Heel of the Boot: A Tour to the Bottom of the Italian Peninsula. And once again, this trip was on our own dime so that we can report “real deal” to you.

Day 1 – 22-OCT.  ROME – ABRUZZO NATIONAL PARK  Leaving Rome, we will drive southeast toward Abruzzo Natinoal Park. But before, we will stop in the small and beautiful town of Subiaco where we will visit the middle age downtown and have lunch. Then we will continue to enter the park where we could have an experience in the wildlife as “on the footstep of the wolf” or ”searching for the Bear”

1 night in Abruzzo National Park

Hotel Il Lavatoio ( Castel di Sangro) This hotel is in the old laundry of Castel di Sangro.

DAY 2 – 23-OCT. RODI GARGANICO The day until afternoon will be dedicated to trek in the wildlife continuing what we began the day before searching for wolf or bear; then back to the car driving down to the beginning of Puglia region in one of the most beautiful seas in Italy: the Gargano where in Rodi we will have our base for the next two days.  

3 nights in Rodi Garganico  

Hotel: Edificio 15 house Elite

DAY 3– 24-OCT. GARGANO The Gargano area is one of the most beautiful and well preserved in Italy in matter of nature and landscape. Today will be dedicated to visit many of the small villages along the coast and the interior with its “foresta umbra” in the Gargano National Park.

DAY 4 – 25-OCT. TREMITI ISLANDS The Adriatic sea in Italy is not known as the best sea, except this area, the area of the Gargano and of the Tremiti Islands. In the Tremiti were found settlement of human being of the stone age and they deserve a tour. We will dedicate the ENTIRE day. In the night back to Rodi.

DAY 5 – 26-OCT.  MANFREDONIA -FOGGIA – SANTA MARGHERITA DI SAVOIA – TRANI Leaving Rodi and the Gargano subregion we will drive south stopping in Manfredonia, in Foggia which is one of the 6 provinces of the region. Then we will continue along the coast stopping in Santa Margherita di Savoia with its “saline” salt produced from the sea and Trani—all important locations of the area with a lot of history and things to be see.

2 nights in Trani

Hotel:  Palazzo Paciotti  (Trani)

DAY 7 – 28 OCT.  CASTELLANA GROTTE – CEGLIE MESSAPICA – OSTUNI The Caves of Castellana Grotte are one of the most beautiful places in Italy and being in the area and not visiting them would be a terrible mistake. We will continue in Ceglie where we could visit the ruins of a civilization which was here before the Greeks and the Romans and then we will reach Ostuni, which is one of the capitals of the baroque in Puglia. In the evening we will reach Alberobello. This is a unique place where all houses are constructed with a pointed roof in stones.

1 night in Alberobello

Trullimania  (Alberobello)

DAY 8 – 29-OCT.  MANDURIA – LECCE – GALLIPOLI Today we will visit Alberobello’s famous “Trulli” and then drive south on the heel of  Italy passing through Manduria which is very famous for its very fine and “powerful” wines, Lecce, a beautiful baroque town and Gallipoli, a nice resort at the sea where we will be based for three days.

3 nights in Gallipoli.

Palazzo Mosco Inn (Gallipoli)

DAY 9 – 30-OCT. S. MARIA DI LEUCA – OTRANTO – GALATINA We are really at the end of Italy, in the most eastern part – Albania is just 60 miles over the Adriatic sea. We will drive to Santa Maria di Leuca the southernmost part of Puglia region and the border between the Adriatic sea and the Jonio Sea. We will explore Otranto with its “Otranto canal.” It is the nearest part of Italy to the Balkans and Albania and known as the “white town” for its white limestone painted houses. Of course we will visit Galatina famous for white Galatina wine and red Negroamaro wine.

DAY 10 – 31-OCT. Today we will dedicate all day to visiting the Jonio coast with Porto Ceresio, and Taranto.

DAY 11 – 1-NOV.  BACK TO ROME: MATERA – PADULA – SALERNO On the way back to the north we will pass through Basilicata region, stopping in Matera with its “Sassi”—a Unesco monument and set of Mel Gibson’s movie “Passion.” Then we will reach Padula with its beautiful “Certosa” and finally in Campania region, Salerno where we will spend the night.

1 night in Salerno area.

Barone B&B  (Salerno)

DAY 12 – 2-NOV.  TO CIVITAVECCHIA HARBOUR Cassino or Fiumicino We will try to make the best of this last day, stopping somewhere on an itinerary of 200 miles to reach Civitavecchia and the port for your cruise.

Did you know that we publish a weekly broadcast with the latest articles from My Itchy Travel Feet, timely trip inspiration and travel deals?  Subscribe by clicking here .

Find anything you save across the site in your account

To revisit this article, select My Account, then   View saved stories

How to Plan the Perfect Road Trip in Southern Italy

By Laura Itzkowitz

an arched entrance to a courtyard with a car and bicycle

All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Rolling hills dotted by olive trees, gorgeous beaches with turquoise water, poppy fields, vineyards, and charming villages—if you think this is Tuscany, think again. Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is all this and more, and now it’s coming onto the radar of American travelers in a big way. And since the area isn’t very well connected by public transit, a road trip is the way to go. Here’s how to do it.

Fly into Bari—one of Puglia’s two international airports—and rent a premium car from Hertz Italy in the arrivals hall. Kick off the trip by checking into Borgo Egnazia , a member of Leading Hotels of the World that was a pioneer of luxury travel in the region. Run by Aldo Melpignano, whose family owns four luxury hotels in the area and one in London, it was designed by Pino Brescia to look like the platonic ideal of a traditional Puglian village, complete with a piazza surrounded by casette (little houses), three restaurants, three outdoor pools, and a golf course. Head to Borgo Egnazia’s beach club, Cala Masciola , for a fresh seafood lunch overlooking the sea, and don’t miss dinner at Due Camini, which earned a Michelin star last fall for its innovative take on Puglian cuisine. If you’re lucky enough to be in house while they host one of their summer parties, be sure to go.

a white stone gate and facade

Entrance to Borgo Egnazia.

This spring, Masseria Torre Maizza , a Rocco Forte Hotel, opened minutes away from Borgo Egnazia, bringing a new luxury option to the area. With just 40 rooms and suites, it’s much smaller than its neighbor, so it’s a good option for travelers who like the intimacy of a boutique hotel. Like Masseria San Domenico —another member of Leading Hotels of the World run by the Melpignano family—it’s housed in a renovated masseria , one of the traditional Puglian farmhouses that dot the region.

While you’re in the area, head to Ostuni, known as la città bianca (the white city). With narrow lanes leading up a hill surrounded by whitewashed buildings, it looks like a village in the Greek islands. Borgo Egnazia can arrange a guided tour of the town with a stop at Masseria Brancati , an ancient olive oil mill, where you can admire 2,000-year-old olive trees and taste the golden liquid they produce.

a white room with a white bed in a cove

A guest room at Trullo Melograno.

The northern part of Puglia—known as the Valle d’Itria—is dotted by trulli , centuries-old dwellings topped by conical roofs. Legend has it the area’s inhabitants would dismantle the homes when the tax collectors showed up and rebuild as soon as they left. The town of Alberobello boasts the largest concentration of trulli and is protected by UNESCO, but some of the trulli in the surrounding countryside have been converted into B&Bs or villas. Villa rental company the Thinking Traveller has a few of these ancient buildings in its portfolio, and one of the most charming is Trullo Melograno . Book a stay there to see what it’s like to live in one of these rustic homes and you can have a local chef prepare a home-cooked meal. As part of its Think Experiences program, the Thinking Traveller also offers an exclusive tour of Alberobello, paired with a cheesemaking experience at a nearby farm, where you can see how mozzarella and burrata are made.

a small square with tables and blue window sills

By Aleks Gallardo

Tour a Sophisticated Atherton, California, Home With a Storybook Guesthouse

By Mayer Rus

Notorious Mobsters at Home: 13 Photos of Domestic Mob Life

By Charlotte Collins

Two more must-visit towns in the area are Monopoli and Polignano a Mare, both of which you can see in a day. Head to Monopoli for pizza at La Dolce Vita and stroll the picturesque streets of the historic center and the seafront promenade. Then go to Polignano a Mare, which is built on a series of cliffs overlooking the sea and a small but beautiful beach. Stop for an Aperol Spritz at one of the little cafés on the piazza or overlooking the water, or splurge on a meal at the famous Grotta Palazzese , built into the side of a cliff. Design lovers who want to bring home some ceramics should make a detour to the town of Grottaglie. There are many studios and shops to peruse, but the best is Enza Fasano Ceramiche , a family-run shop that makes gorgeous tableware, plant holders, and decorative objects.

ceramic plates hung on a white wall

Enza Fasano Ceramiche.

A bit farther away but worth the trip is Matera, this year’s European Capital of Culture and one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities. It’s technically in Basilicata, but it only takes about 90 minutes to get there. To really understand this fascinating city known for its sassi (cave dwellings), it’s best to hire an expert guide like Fabio Congedo of Imago Artis , who can explain its complicated history and show you the best spots in town. “Matera needs to be visited, since the reasons why it has been included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list are still standing,” Congedo, a former archaeologist, says.

a living area with arches and a large foot sculpture and two kids

Il Tabacchificio.

After a few days exploring the lush Valle d’Itria, make your way south to Salento. The Thinking Traveller has a variety of villas in this area too, but the most jaw-dropping one is Il Tabacchificio . This spacious villa occupies a former tobacco factory and is filled with furniture by Gaetano Pesce, Eero Saarinen, and Verner Panton, as well as objects the owners—the Italian ambassador to Ghana and his wife—picked up on their travels.

The villa is so gorgeous it’ll be hard to tear yourself away, but there’s a lot to explore in this part of Puglia. To try some of the region’s best wines, book a tasting at Duca Carlo Guarini , in the tiny village of Scorrano. The duke’s noble family has been making wine here for 900 years, and you can taste their expertise in the glass. His wife, Lucia Mancini, is also an accomplished ceramist, with her own studio housed in the family palazzo nearby. For dinner that evening, book a table at Masseria Le Stanzíe , which serves traditional Puglian specialties made with vegetables and herbs from the gardens inside a centuries-old farmhouse. It doesn’t get more authentically farm-to-table than that.

a bedroom with a white bed and soft green walls

A guest suite at Palazzo Daniele.

When in the Salento peninsula, spending time on the beach is a must. The farther south you go, the shorter the distance between the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Drive down to Santa Maria di Leuca, the village where the two seas meet. In summer there are beach clubs and you can take a boat ride to explore the grottos. A few minutes away is Gagliano del Capo, where Palazzo Daniele , a new member of Design Hotels, just opened in the family palazzo of art collector Francesco Petrucci. He and Gabriele Salini of G-Rough in Rome teamed up to transform the aristocratic residence into an intimate hotel, restoring the original frescoes and tiles and adding art by contemporary artists.

Another new hotel in the Salento is the Palazzo Maritati e Muci , a passion project of Michelin-starred French chef Guy Martin. Guests can stay in one of the 10 rooms spread over two palazzi in Nardò that have been lovingly restored and filled with art and design pieces by Gio Ponti, Charles Garnier, Alvar Aalto, and Ettore Sottsass, among others.

a long curving beach and stucco buildings

The Lecce waterfront at dusk.

Otranto is another lovely seaside town with a charming historic center and a port. On hot summer days, everyone goes to one of the beach clubs along the coast, like Lido Gold , which is located in the area known as the Maldives of Salento.

Architecture lovers should also spend a day in Lecce with Imago Artis guide Fabio Congedo, who grew up there. The city is famous for its ornate Baroque architecture, and Congedo will point out all the most beautiful buildings. “I was born in Lecce in 1972, so I’ve had the opportunity to notice several changes in its historic center,” he says. “After being nearly abandoned in the ‘70s and early ‘80s, it slowly made a comeback thanks to specific restoration designs and European funds.” In a full-day tour organized by Imago Artis, you can also do a pasta-making class and get a peek inside a privately owned aristocratic palazzo—just one of the hidden charms of this incredible region.

9 Best Aspen Hotels and Homes For Your Next Winter Getaway

By Rachel Fletcher

This 600-Square-Foot Barcelona Apartment Embodies a Modern Mediterranean Aesthetic

By Linne Halpern

The 7 Most Beautiful Pagodas, Temples, and Stupas Around the World

By Noelann Bourgade

14 Best Park City Airbnbs and Hotels

By Erika Owen

Italy Trip Planning

Italy Travel Tips

North Italy Guides

South Italy Guides

The ultimate one week Southern Italy Itinerary

Southern Italy itinerary

Last Updated on December 8, 2023 by Ingrid & Alex

If you have read my 7 days in Italy itinerary (and I hope you did) you know I’m very good at planning trips in Italy. Thus, here goes my one week in Southern Italy Itinerary .

Italy is amazing. The narrow streets, colorful houses, delicious food, and strong coffee. Take that and add in incredible beaches and Caribean-like water, and you know you are in South Italy.

I’ve traveled back to these places on several occasions and I could never get bored. Italy is amazingly beautiful, but its southern part, or at least certain destinations, will steal your heart and help you skip the crowds.

This post contains affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. Read more about it on our  disclosure page here .

Before we start, here is some useful information worth having for your trip, no matter where you choose to go in the end. 

Discover Cars  is a great aggregator that will help you find and book the best option for renting a car during your trip, helping you  save up to 70%  on your car rental. They have a pretty good  Cancellation policy that would give you options in case your flight or travel plans change. You will most probably need a car to get to most of these places, especially if you want to keep a schedule.  Get your offers here! Bookaway is your getaway to trains, buses, and flights . All in one place. I suggest using it especially for booking train tickets for Italy or Germany. Calculate your train fare here! Travel insurance   Our go-to travel insurance is  EKTA  – they offer great deals for people who travel. Everyone between the ages of 3 and 85 can buy it online on their website and save lots of time (and money). Your policy will be sent to your inbox within 2-3 minutes, and you get 24/7 multilingual client support.  Get the best deal for your travel insurance here! Moreover, they also provide luggage loss insurance .

Table of Contents

Southern Italy vacation 1 – week Itinerary – Option 1

one week in Southern Italy

First stop: 2 nights in Alberobello

Land in Bari and jump right in the car and make your way to Alberobello, where I would book the 2 nights in a Trullo.  Or choose to stay by the sea in one of the old chic authentic Italian towns Puglia has on display.

No matter where you choose to stay in Puglia, the region will steal your heart and leave you wanting more. At least that’s what I felt about it.

Get your guide on what to wear in Italy in spring !

If you have read my 7 days in Italy itinerary , you know that I totally recommend doing it by train, because trains are very well organized, cheap when booked in advance, and very efficient in Northern Italy.

one week in Southern Italy

The southern part of the country, on the other hand, is another story. The best way of making the most out of your trip is to rent  a car and spend the rest of your one-week itinerary driving around Puglia and its beautiful villages.

Read all the things to know when traveling to Italy for the first time

During the time spent in Alberobello (or Martina Franca/Locorotondo if you are looking for cheaper Trullo housing), head to Polignano a Mare for the most perfect views over the deep blue sea, Ostuni for the narrow white streets, Monopoli  for its Baroque beauty on the shore of the Adriatic Sea.

Head even more to the South and explore the Gargano Peninsula , one of the most scenic yet hidden destinations in Italy. At least for tourists from outside of the country.

Most of this area is a National park, with unspoiled destinations, and blue water which will give destinations like the Maldives a run for their money.

The last stop while driving towards the following location on your South Italy itinerary in 1 week should be Matera ,  with its impressive cave-like houses.

Get inspired by my stunning 4 days in Puglia

Best activities for Puglia

Take part in the ultimate pasta experience in Bari – go on a walking tour, make your own pasta, enjoy some local wine, and taste some of the best Italian ice creams. See more about the tour here!

From Polignano a Mare, book a boat ride and explore the caves along the coast. Enjoy an aperitif on board, and come prepared to swim in the crystal blue waters. See more about the tour here!

In Alberobello, go on a 2-hour guided tour of the city and learn about the history and tradition of these UNESCO World Heritage sites. Book your guide here!

Learn about the history of Ostuni, on a walking tour. For 1.5 hours walk along the city center together with a local guide. Book your tour here!  

one week in Southern Italy

Where to stay in Alberobello/Puglia

As I’ve said, staying in a Trullo house would be something else when visiting Puglia, but at the end of the day there are so many incredible accommodation options around you’ll have a hard choice to make.

But here are a few of my recommendations, based on feedback received from people who have tested them:

  • Masseria Le Cerase – a traditional white house with a stunning pool, perfectly located for daily trips to the sea or Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, or Ostuni. Book your stay here!
  • Masseria Alchimia – enjoy the most authentic and fresh Italian breakfast, only a few kilometers away from Polignano a Mare, in a stylish and immaculate location. Check out the rooms here!
  • Hotel Don Ferrante – who wouldn’t want to experience staying right in the walls of Monopoli? This 10-room boutique hotel will not only charm you with its design but also with the rooftop terrace and pool overlooking the blue. See when they’re available here!
  • Trullieu Guesthouse Alberobello – even though the Trullo guesthouse is located extremely close to Alberobello’s center, it is still hidden from all the noise and fuss. And it also has a free close-by parking space. Book your stay in a trullo here!

Second stop: 3 nights on the Amalfi Coast

Driving on the amalfi coast.

Read also: 30+ Italian gifts for Italy lovers

Vietri Sul mare view - best places to visit in Italy in May

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast

When we think about the Amalfi Coast, the accommodation options are endless, and you should always choose a place with a view. Because what a view that is!

Here are only a few options to consider:

  • Alcione Residence   – a family-run hotel with a great location and stunning views, AC in all their rooms. Make sure to book way in advance, because they have only a few rooms. Check when they are available here!
  • Villa Magia   – bright airy rooms, perfect for a special occasion such as spending your honeymoon in Italy. Breakfast is made by the house chef and can be delivered to your balcony so that you can enjoy it with a stunning view. Book your stay here!

Last stop: 2 Nights in Sorrento

You could choose Naples, but after having spent some 4 days in the Southern Italian town, I would rather go back to Sorrento and book a stay there.

Why have I included Sorrento as the last stop in my one-week in Southern Italy itinerary?

one week in Southern Italy

First of all because of its beautiful coquette streets, and balconies with amazing views it started to look a lot like the rest of the Amalfi Coast.

Naples , on the other hand, is a bit hard to take in. Filthy hectic streets, run-down buildings, delicious food, and historic buildings all stand together. The Bay of Naples is a stunning sight, and there are beautiful areas in the city, don’t get me wrong.

Another reason for choosing Sorrento as an overnight stay is the fact that you can get plenty of boat tours to Capri Island, the Blue Grotto, or Ischia Island . Skip the ferry lines, forget about the time wasted on searching for things to do in Ischia, and take advantage of the easy cancellation process when booking online. 

Moreover, getting from Sorrento to archeological sites like Pompeii   or Herculaneum is also easy, both on your own and even more so on a guided tour . Book it online in advance and don’t worry about wasting precious time out of your one week in Italy looking for tours or buses.

Where to stay in Sorrento

  • Grand Hotel Aminta – great all Italian traditional food, beautiful pool, incredible views, and a convenient shuttle bus. Book your room here!
  • Hotel Palazzo Guardati   – incredibly central location, with a rooftop pool and killer views. Check it out here!

Option 2 – Southern Italy itinerary by train

southern italy itinerary 7 days

First stop: 2 nights in Rome

The second option is to start your itinerary in the Eternal City. I know 2 nights and 3 days in Rome might not seem a lot, but when you only have 7 days in Italy and you want to scratch the surface, you can fit plenty into your trip. 

A vital tip to take into consideration in order to make the best out of your Italy itinerary is to try as much as possible to book your tours and tickets in advance . This way, you will go directly, skip the line, and see the Musei Vaticani, Villa Borgese, Colosseo, and all the other attractions you have on your mind. 

Another thing to have in mind when booking your stay in Rome is the area for your accommodation . You’ll want to be close to public transportation, yet close to the train station not to waste time on your commute to the next stop on your itinerary. 

While I usually say I prefer traveling by train in the Northern part of Italy, and by car in the Southern part, I’ll stick to a train, boat, and bus combination for this second option of my itinerary. 

That’s why you’ll want to book your hotel close to the Termini train station. It might not be the perfect area in Rome, but it is convenient also because you’ll get the train directly from the airport to here.

One day in Rome

So make the best out of your 2 days in Rome: see the Castel Sant’Angelo , move just a few steps away and visit the Vatican and its Sistine Chappel , stroll your way to Piazza di Spagna, and take a picture on the Spanish Steps, eat an ice cream close to the Trevi Fountain , and go inside the Pantheon . 

Once you have seen the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Tour , you’ll be ready to move forward on your Italy 7 days active itinerary. We want to see it all, right?

Read my comprehensive guide for visiting the Roman Forum or the Colosseum . 

Second stop: 2 nights in Sorrento

I know Naples is closer to Rome than Sorrento is. But Sorrento is so much lovelier. And it is closer to some of the places you’ll want to see in the region: Pompeii & Mount Vesuvio , Herculaneum , and Sorrento itself . This will pretty much fill your schedule for the 3 days you have to spend in the area.

When I was there a few years back, I chose to stay in Naples and did everything from there. I must admit that seeing how lovely Sorrento is, I ended up regretting I didn’t choose that as our location. So learn from my mistakes, and build your trip from here.

Hey, you can even go to Naples for half a day. It is only less than one hour by train away. 

Or better yet, take the ferry and go and see one of the most beautiful islands in Italy: Procida Island .

The third stop: 3 nights on the Amalfi Coast

I chose the best for last because you’ll get to rest in Paradise. I have a soft spot in my heart when it comes to the Amalfi Coast, and all my Southern Italy trips must pass through this Italian coastline.

Positano view from the boat, the perfect Amalfi Coast road trip itinerary

No matter where you choose to stay on the Amalfi Coast, chances are you are in for some breathtaking views and amazing day trips . Just check out the options listed above in the first option for my South Italy itinerary in 1 week.

Option 3 – Southern Italy and Sicily itinerary

7 days in southern italy

First Stop: 2 nights in Alberobello 

This 3rd option of the itinerary in 7 days will be packed with sightseeing and lots of kilometers. I also suggest renting a car for this one and making your way from Bari airport down South.

Don’t leave Puglia behind without seeing the trulli in Alberobello, the grotto restaurant in Polignano a Mare, the charming little town of Monopoli, and the crystal clear blue water in that part of Italy.

Second stop: 1 night Matera

Please don’t make a mistake and spend one night in Matera. Seeing the unique town light up might just be one experience you won’t get to live in again. 

Third stop: 1 night in Reggio Calabria

The real South, Reggio Calabria is a hub linking the peninsula to Sicily . Because that’s where you’re going next.

If you don’t want to spend time here, go directly to Catania and start your Sicily adventure. But if however, if you do want to take it easy, just explore this hidden gem. I guarantee there won’t be many other tourists around.

Fourth stop: 3 nights in Catania, Sicily

I know only 3 days in Sicily is bearly enough, but you will still get to see the Eastern part of the island. And that’s still something.

When I was there, we stayed in Catania, rented a car, and explored Taormina , Messina , Syracuse , Ragusa , and Etna .

If I could choose only one or two of these places, I wouldn’t miss Taormina and Syracuse. And if you have more time to spare, go all the way to Palermo and let yourself be seduced by the pretty small town of Cefalu less than one hour away. 

Option 4 – Sicily

Map one week Sicily itinerary

This option is about spending one week exploring Sicily. To be fair, this incredible island has so much to offer that even one week would not be enough. However, here is a comprehensive itinerary option for one week in Sicily .

Depending on where you arrive, you will either be in Catania or Palermo . So start your itinerary from there and make your way towards the other major city.

My suggestion would be to split your stays between Catania and Palermo , and from there make day trips to the important attractions nearby.

Where to stay in Catania

Trìcora Sicilian B&B  – is a simple and clean place, but what sets it apart from other accommodation options in Catania, is the rooftop terrace with a stunning view!  See more here!

Altevolte Rooms  – set in the heart of the old town, here is where you will take full advantage of the vibrant life of Catania. The rooms are set in an old and stylish building, minutes away from the most important attractions in town.  See more here!

Attico MEA  – close to the seafront, but also in the heart of the old town, from this place you will have the best views in Catania.  See more here!

What to see in and around Catania

Sicily in winter -The Teatro Romano di Catania

  • Piazza del Duomo  – with the Elephant’s Fountain 
  • Catania’s Cathedral  – steps away, you’ll find the Duomo di Catania, where the famous Italian composer, Vincenzo Bellini is buried. 
  • Go for a stroll on Via Etna  – get ready for some window shopping, admire the view of Etna, and stop by one of the many cafes along the way.
  • Stop at the  gardens of Villa Bellini  – one of my favorite places in town, the gardens are set on a hill, and as you go up, you can admire a perfect view of the city.
  • The Roman Theatre  – an impressive place, that would fit up to 7000 people, and that is believed to be dating back to the 2nd century AD, built on the ancient Acropolis. Not only the interior of this place and how well preserved it is will impress you, but also the view you get of Etna and the sea. 
  • The Ursino Castle  – or the Castello Svevo di Catania, dates back to the 13th century and has now been transformed into a museum that is open to the public.
  • Climb Mount Etna – go on a volcano hiking tour or a morning or sunset day trip . 
  • Visit Taormina , one of the prettiest small villages in Sicily
  • Go on day trips to Messina and Syracuse

Where to stay in Palermo

  • B&B One  – beautiful rooms, with a modern design, located in an old building with a special charm. Guests particularly enjoyed the breakfast here, but also the fact that it is within walking distance from some of the most important attractions in town.  See more here!
  • Ci’Cala House  – perfect location and a charming view, especially when you book the room with a sea view balcony.  See more here!
  • Quattro Incanti  – you might know by now that if there’s one thing I love most, that’s a beautiful rooftop terrace. And that’s the main reason why I chose this apartment. Just know that it is located on the 3rd floor of a building without an elevator.  See more here!

What to do in and around Palermo

road trip to southern italy

  • Visit the  Norman   Palace  – the seat of the Kings of Sicily during the Norman domination and the oldest royal residence in Europe. 
  • Go on a  city center walking tour  – it is the most efficient way to experience the sights, smells, and sounds of this bustling Sicilian capital.
  • Do a  local cheese and wine tasting  held in a beautiful 16th-century Sicilian house
  • Climb to the rooftop of the Palermo Cathedral 
  • Visit the first public botanical garden of Palermo,  Villa Giulia , the place that Goethe once called “the most wonderful place on earth”
  • Go for a  guided tour  at the  Teatro Massimo Opera House , one of the most iconic buildings in town
  • Spend some time at  Mondello Beach , or simply come here for the sunset and to have a drink at one of the clubs and restaurants along the seafront. 
  • Go on day trips to Cefalu, San Vito Lo Capo, and Trapani

Option 5 – Puglia

road trip to southern italy

Another great option for a one-week itinerary would be to spend the whole week exploring the magical Puglia. This is by far one of my favorite regions in Italy and one that provides a great mix of history, city life, delicious food, and great beaches.

I would suggest choosing a base and going on day trips to some of the most important attractions and towns around.

Of course, I have included Matera as well, even though the city is not actually in Puglia. However, it is easily reached and should not be missed.

Where to stay in Puglia for your 7 day itinerary

Even though Bari might be the first option, I would not choose to stay here, but only visit it as a day trip.

If you want to experience a small village and be in the middle of the distance to all the great places you will visit, choose to stay around Alberobello or Locorotondo .

If you want to be by the sea, stay in Polignano a Mare or Monopoli .

This itinerary will also have you staying one night in Matera – you should not miss the Sassi as they light up.

Puglia Itinerary option

Day 1 – Alberobello & Locorotondo

Day 2 – Polignano a Mare and Monopoli

Day 3 – Ostuni and Martina Franca

Day 4 – Bari

Day 5 – Lecce

Day 6 – 7 Matera

You can fly in and out of Bari, and rent a car to get around.

Traveling by public transportation is possible but much harder than in other parts of Italy.

Southern Italy Organized Tours

If you would rather book a tour and forget all about planning the vacation and itinerary, here are a few options to have in mind: 

  • Highlights of the Amalfi Coast – spend 8 days exploring one of the most beautiful areas in Italy. See more here!
  • Sicilian Secrets – the complete tour of Sicily. See more here!
  • Highlights of Southern Italy & Sicily – See more here !

Other FAQ about your South Italy Road Trip Itinerary

When is the best time to visit southern italy.

While it is understandable that many can only plan their Southern Italy road trip itinerary during summer, particularly July or August, that might not be the best time to visit. Since you will be traveling through some of the hottest Italian regions, during those months temperatures can rise and make your vacation a bit hard to handle.

That being said, in my opinion, the best time to visit the region is during the shoulder season, with both spring and fall as ideal periods. Temperatures aren’t so high, prices are more affordable, it is easier to find availability for your dream accommodation, and there aren’t so many people around.

How many days do you need in Southern Italy ?

That depends a lot on a few things: how much you want to see, what is your travel style, how much time you want to spend on the road, and of course, your time and budget.

I think that spending one week in South Italy would allow you to scratch the surface while planning for anywhere between 10 and 14 days could make a great vacation.

Is Southern Italy worth visiting?

Definitely!

Come here for the stunning coastlines, lush rolling hills, and majestic ancient cities.

Local cuisine is an important part of the experience, with delicious dishes like pizza and pasta being common.

Of course, no visit to Italy would be complete without a trip to the iconic Mount Vesuvius! The beautiful views from its summit are unforgettable.

From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in South Italy, so planning a vacation here is a must.

Is it safe to road trip in Southern Italy?

Yes, it is generally safe to road trip in the southern part of Italy as long as you research your route in advance and take the necessary safety precautions such as avoiding unfamiliar areas, traveling only during daylight hours, and staying at secure hotels or accommodations.

Don’t leave money or other valuables in the car, choose to rent a small car (streets can be narrow), and be alert in traffic.

All in all, I drove with a friend from Puglia to the Amalfi Coast and back, without any issues, so I would say it is safe to road trip around this part of the country.

Renting a car and driving in Southern Italy

Many might tell you it is challenging to drive in Italy in general, especially on the Amalfi Coast, in Sicily, or in Puglia. But if I can make it, so can you, with the right information and guidance.

Here are a few rules to follow when you choose to drive in and around Italy:

  • Choose a small car  – roads are narrow and winding, and parking spaces are hard to find. That’s why it is recommended to rent a small car (such as a Fiat 500, my dream car in Italy) that will allow you to make your way easily towards your destination. 
  • Rent ahead of time to make sure the right car is available  – that is so important! We ended up getting a car from the airport and the only one available was an SUV. We had to take it because there was no other option, but let me tell you driving an SUV in Southern Italy is not ideal.  Choose your car here!
  • Make insurance  – if there’s one place in this world where you don’t want to skip insurance, that’s on the Amalfi Coast or Sicilu! You will want to be covered against any possible incident. 
  • Don’t risk it if you don’t  have enough experience  – and I don’t mean 20 years of experience, for example, I had been driving daily only for the past 3 years before driving the Amalfi Coast. What I mean is that it helps to be able to be confident and relaxed behind the wheel. 
  • Plan your itinerary and start early  – skip the crowds, traffic jams, and potential accidents.
  • Parking can be challenging and expensive in some areas, especially on the Amalfi Coast. But that doesn’t mean it is impossible to find a spot, especially when you start early in the morning. Remember that Italians don’t always leave space between cars when they park, so that’s another reason why you will want to buy insurance. 
  • Don’t leave any valuables in your car when you leave. I’ve heard so many stories about breaking into cars while in Italy and you don’t want to risk it! Take all your documents, money, and any other valuable things such as phones or cameras with you.  

Read also my comprehensive guides for renting a car in Puglia , driving the Amalfi Coast , or driving in Sicily

What to pack for a South Italy vacation

Outfits for Italy in Spring and what to wear in Italy in Spring. Perfectly comfortable cute outfits for traveling around some of the most beautiful places in Italy. Get your fashion for travel inspiration and shop for the best travel shoes to bring to your Italy trip.

Your packing list will depend a lot on the time of the year you choose to visit. Chances are you will be going on sunny days, thus here are a few things to consider when deciding what to pack.

If I spend one week on your vacation, and if I don’t have access to laundry, I would pack one outfit for each day. I would include something I could layer in case it gets colder in the morning and evenings – after living in Asia I never leave without a scarf or jacket to wear in case it gets cold (outside or inside).

Also, for one week I would pack two pairs of shoes: something I could wear on hikes or comfortable walks, and some sandals that go with dresses. I’ve learned the hard way that I should never bring new shoes!

I’ve seen many people asking about how Italians dress and wanting to blend in. I never worry about that – just bring whatever you feel comfortable in, depending on the season.

If you are traveling from outside of Europe (or from the UK), you might need to check and bring an electricity adapter.

Never forget to take the important documents: passport, International Driving Permit, and travel insurance.

Also, if you are traveling during summer don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat (or something to cover your head), and a swimsuit.

How to get from the Amalfi Coast to Puglia (or the other way around)

I’ve been asked in the past about the easiest way to get from the Amalfi Coast to Puglia, and I have even written a comprehensive guide for a great itinerary .

While you could take the train, there are only a few options throughout the day, and the train ride lasts very long. So, the best option would be to rent a car and make your way from one coast to the other. At least that’s what I did.

Italy travel resources

  • Have less time to spend in Italy but still want to live it up? Spend  one day in Genoa  on your way to the  Cinque Terre . Or stop for   one day in Rome on your way to some other amazing destination. Or do it differently, but however, take a Cinque Terre day trip .
  • Check out the ultimate Italy 10 days itinerary and plan your trip with these 2 options.
  • Take the perfect pictures for your forever memories in these  Instagram spots in Positano .
  • How many days  are just enough for seeing  Venice  and living it to the fullest? I’ve been there 3 times already and I think I have just the answer you are looking for, along with all the great things you shouldn’t miss in Venice.
  • See a lot more with these fabulous  day trips from Genoa .
  • Spend an incredible  7 days in Italy  itinerary and see all the destinations you’ve ever dreamt of.

South Italy itinerary and your ultimate South Italy travel bucket list. Discover these beautiful Italy destinations you most probably haven't heard of, but need to see when you're travelling to Italy. #italy #southitaly #itinerary

Ingrid & Alex

42 responses to “The ultimate one week Southern Italy Itinerary”

[…] location in the South of Italy makes traveling and seeing more of Italy very easy. Some of the best day trips are as […]

[…] you have more time and want to make the best of it, plan for a one-week itinerary to Southern Italy. But make sure to include also Puglia, one of the 52 Places to go in 2019 as per the New York […]

[…] more time to wonder around Europe? Why not do a South Italy itinerary as […]

[…] Why not include the Amalfi Coast on your one week in South Italy Itinerary? […]

[…] Why not include the Amalfi Coast on your one week in South Italy Itinerary? […]

[…] Southern Italy Itinerary – best places to visit + 3 itinerary options […]

[…] one of the leading wineries in southern Italy, at the Feudi di San Gregorio estate, with your own private driver-guide. Learn about the process […]

[…] Go South and live the real Italian vibes with my One week in South Italy itinerary […]

[…] you are starting your Italy itinerary from Rome, you will most likely land at Rome Fiumicino Airport. If you are traveling by low-cost […]

[…] in Southern Italy, this is a region with mild weather and with very hot summers. That’s why, I would suggest […]

[…] you’ve already visited Rome, have been on a longer itinerary through Southern Italy, or maybe you are just landing here because it is more convenient but your final destination is the […]

[…] Great options for tours in Southern Italy: […]

[…] based on my year spent in the country: 2 options for a 10 days Italy itinerary, 3 options for a Southern Italy itinerary, 7 Days in Italy – a comprehensive Northern Italy itinerary, or my tips and tricks for when you […]

[…] the weather differs a lot from the Northern part of Italy to the Southern part, both areas are worth visiting during the cold season, for different […]

[…] my favorite season for traveling to Italy, and especially Southern Italy, and the why behind it. In the past 10 years, I’ve lived, studied, worked, and traveled to Italy […]

[…] Rome to your Southern Italy itinerary along with Puglia and the Amalfi […]

[…] not include the Amalfi Coast on your one week in South Italy Itinerary? I’m sure you’ll want to take all those great Instagrammable pictures in […]

[…] option for when you want to see other destinations in Southern Italy would be landing in Rome and making your way South, to the Amalfi […]

[…] traveling to Southern Italy and especially on the Amalfi Coast, choosing to stay in Sorrento might prove to be the perfect […]

Alicia Moisa-Duran Avatar

Thank you for your wonderful ideas regarding travel in Southern Italy. I have been researching this area online and your site is one of the best. Four of us are planning a trip to Southern Italy from mid April, starting in Rome and ending either in Naples or Bari, whatever is best because we have to fly to Sicily on April 30th of 2022.

I am confused as to which way to travel. Do we start in Naples or Bari. What do you think is best? Also I do not want my husband to spend the entire trip driving. He is the only one that will drive. We are two couples, well traveled and seniors. We arrive in Rome April 14th and we were planning on five nights but that could be cut if we need more time in the south. We have all been to Rome before. We do want to explore Pompeii, our husbands are looking forward to the archeological sites as are we.

I would appreciate your advice. Thank you for all the hotel recommendations too.

Ingrid Avatar

Hello! Thank you very much, I’m glad you found my post helpful because that’s my main goal 🙂 I will think about it and get back via email with my advice and itinerary idea, it is easier this way. Have a lovely day!

Hello 🙂 I’ve sent an email, I hope the information helps!

[…] since the weather in Italy (especially Southern Italy) gets warmer relatively fast, May might be a bit more crowded, thus you will also see the price […]

[…] my first visit to Southern Italy, I only went on a day trip from Naples to Amalfi and absolutely loved every moment of it. Years […]

[…] to see something else for a change? Plan a one-week itinerary in South Italy and make sure to see Puglia and the Amalfi […]

[…] you’ve planned a longer itinerary for the south of Italy and only want to spend one day in Naples? While Naples is one of Italy’s largest cities, with an […]

[…] in southern Italy is something else for sure. I drove from Puglia to the Amalfi Coast and all the way back, but also […]

[…] of Taranto, you will find it easier to travel around by car. Trains aren’t so well connected in Southern Italy, and buses are not as easy to […]

[…] in the province of Basilicata, in Southern Italy, neighboring the more famous Matera or Potenza, this is another reason why you should discover this […]

[…] From Sicily, plan to head up into Southern Italy to discover more of Italy’s gems. Here’s a great one week itinerary of Southern Italy. […]

[…] are many destinations in southern Italy that are far more beautiful than Naples.  But nowhere comes close to matching Naples’ […]

[…] Italy bucket list. However, because of their location – one in the Northern part, one in the Southern part of Italy – it can be a bit difficult to mix both of them together on an Italy itinerary if you want to get […]

[…] around Southern Italy is very different from traveling around the Northern part of the country, where I always choose to […]

[…] worked, and lived in Italy and have since then traveled back extensively. From the north to the south, east to west, I’ve traveled through most of Italy’s regions and have seen some even more than […]

[…] With many of its major airports set in this region, I would say North Italy is a bit easier accessible than Southern Italy. […]

[…] Puglia had been on my list for so much time that when I finally started planning my trip I wanted to see it all. This is my 7 day Puglia road trip itinerary, one that will take you through one of the most charming regions in southern Italy. […]

[…] The gorgeous beach town of Positano lies in the Campania region of South Italy. Positano Village lies within the Amalfi Coast in Province of Salerno. Thanks to its strategic location, there are so many other exciting destinations which you can add in your Southern Italy itinerary. […]

[…] you have more than a day in Matera as a part of a Southern Italy trip, then I suggest the following […]

[…] Go South and live the real Italian vibes with my One week in South Italy itinerary […]

[…] looking for wines that speak of sun-kissed vineyards, wonderful landscapes, and the warmth of Southern Italian hospitality, look no further than Puglia. Open a bottle, relish its flavor, and allow this […]

[…] One week in Southern Italy Itinerary – IngridZenMoments says: September 6, 2019 at 7:45 am […]

[…] Southen Italy itinerary options   […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

road trip to southern italy

3 of the Best Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary Ideas You’ll Love

  • July 11, 2021

road trip to southern italy

Table of Contents

The southern Italian region of Europe is one phenomenal destination to visit if you are embarking on a vacation to Europe. The area is full of exhilarating opportunities in the form of gastronomical culture, traditions, architectural sites, and natural scenery. The fact that the destinations in this region are excellently connected via road adds to the charm of exploring it. So, if you are traveling in southern Italy by car, and are looking for Southern Italy road trip itinerary ideas to guide you, here are three for your assistance:

300x250 AutoEurope

Related Posts :

  • 10 Days in Italy | 5 of The Best Itinerary Ideas for an Amazing 10 Days in Italy
  • 10 of the Best Hidden Gems in Italy to Visit
  • 10 of the Best Places to Visit in Sicily, Italy

Itinerary One: 14-Day or Two-Week Itinerary to Naples, Amalfi Coast, Catania, and Syracuse

road trip to southern italy

Your Southern Italy road trip itinerary begins in the gorgeous setting of Naples , a destination that will give you the true taste of Italy, with its food, architecture, and aura. Luckily, the city has managed to stay off the visitor radar, meaning that if you are after an authentic Italian experience, you are in good luck. Tighten your shoelaces and get pumped because Naples is best explored via foot. Ensure that you pay visits to destinations like Chiostri di Santa Chiara, Via dei Tribunali, and Fontanelle cemetery.

Following a few days in Naples, continue your Southern Italy road trip and reach the breathtaking Amalfi Coast , which is easily the most glorious highlight of the Southern Italy region. A destination with spectacular natural exhibits and exciting related experiences, it is a place that will bestow upon you cherishable memories. While you are here, you must walk the Amalfi coast, jump in the Mediterranean, and laze around at the beaches.

The second last step of your road trip in southern Italy will take you to the great town of Catania . There are many things Catania is known and loved for, its electrifying nightlife and stunning collection of architectural sites being two of them. Discover the wild side of Catania as you hop between bars, dancing and drinking your worries away. And after the sun rises, take a couple of hours of sleep, and buckle up for your daily adventures, where you will explore wonders like Cattedrale di Sant’Agata.

Your southern Italy road trip itinerary ends in Syracuse , a city that will perfectly top off your exhilarating fourteen-day experience. Being a coastal city, Syracuse has some of the best beaches in Italy, sporting long white sandy stretches overlooking calm turquoise waters. The natural scenery is incredibly pristine and serene! Several architectural sites of massive historical significance are in town, too, like the magnificent Temple of Apollo and the Cathedral of Syracuse.

Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary Travel Guide & Planning Resources :

Enjoy this two-week in  Southern Italy Road Trip  itinerary? With this guide, now you can find the  best flights to Southern Italy and rent a car  for your road trip to  Southern Italy with the links provided.

Itinerary Two: 10-Day Itinerary to Palermo, Cefalu, Messina, and Taormina

road trip to southern italy

This southern Italy road trip begins in the ancient town of Palermo – a destination noted and celebrated for its rich history, distinctive culture, spectacular architecture, and savory cuisine. The city has played an important role throughout history, and therefore it makes sense why it has magnificent remains of the days of its glory splattered all across. Sites like Cattedrale di Palermo and Catacombe Dei Cappuccini provide an insight into what life used to be like here.

If you are traveling in southern Italy by car, you must visit Cefalu after Palermo, for the destination is readily accessible via road. The journey is gorgeous, and the views are stunning, making the excursion extremely rewarding. Once you are in Cefalu, take full advantage of the opportunities it presents to its visitors. Hailed as a lovely seaside resort with excellent beaches, it is the perfect spot for you to relax under the sun and laze your days away. But that is not all. Cefalu complements its spectacular setting with some remarkable sites to visit, like its Cathedral and Tempio di Diana.

After spending enjoyable days in Cefalu, head to the port city of Messina . While its status of being the region’s economic hub may bore you initially, landing in the town and exploring it will change your perception. If one says that Messina is pregnant with opportunities waiting for you to explore, one would not be wrong. With fantastic sites like Camposanto, Piazza del Duomo , and Messina Cathedral , there is a lot to keep you on your toes.

The last stop in your southern Italy road trip itinerary is Taormina , a small town nestled in a stunning neighborhood full of destinations that will immensely interest you. Take Teatro Antico di Taormina , for example. Being an ancient Greek theatre’s ruins, it features stunning architectural exhibits from the days of the Greeks. If you feel like delving into the city’s natural side, you would love the opportunity to explore Villa Comunale di, Taormina . The tranquil gardens here would appease and satiate you!

Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary Travel Guide & Planning Resources :

Enjoy this 10-day in  Southern Italy road trip  itinerary? With this guide, now you can find the  best flights  to Southern Italy and  rent a car  for your road trip to  Southern Italy  with the links provided.

Itinerary Three: 7-Day or One-Week Itinerary to Foggia, Bari, Alberobello, and Lecce

road trip to southern italy

This road trip in southern Italy begins in Foggia , one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Thanks to such a long history, the city has been occupied by various powers and dynasties, each of which imparted some element quintessential to them. One great example of this is Chiesa dell Croci , a marvelous structure with an incredibly unique design. Other than this, you should take the opportunity to walk through the city, taking in the surroundings, and visiting its famous attractions like Palazzo Dogana and Duomo Lucera.

Bari forms the second step in your road trip in southern Italy. It is the perfect destination for you if you are looking to experience the traditional side of the country and experience it as the locals do on a daily basis. The town is famous for its distinctive and authentic culinary style, meaning that it has several gastronomical surprises hidden in store for you. Plus, the city has breathtaking beaches, fine golden sand dominating the landscape, and overlooking impressive multi-hued waters. A day on the beach is something you will definitely love!

On your way to Lecce, you must stop in Alberobello , a charming and distinctive town. Alberobello is famous for its unique houses, trulis, painted in pure white, that line its streets. The look created by them is so picture-perfect that you will want to Instagram everything. You would love a walk through this quaint little place to explore it, so sign yourself up for walking tours. If you are more interested in independent excursions, you should visit Trullo Sovrano, Sant’Antonio Church, and Sant’Antonio Church.

Your southern Italy road trip ends in Lecce . While you may be sad that the dream is coming to an end, you can rejoice at the fact that it is ending in the best possible destination. Lecce is a beautiful historical city, filled with interesting and fascinating monuments like the Basilica di Santa Croce, Duomo, and Porta Napoli. Plus, it is easily accessible if you are traveling in southern Italy by car, making it an even more appealing destination to visit on your vacation. Lecce is charming, it is welcoming, and it is exciting, and should therefore be on your travel bucket list.

Enjoy this one-week in  Southern Italy Road Trip  itinerary? With this guide, now you can find the  best flights  to Southern Italy and  rent a car  for your road trip to  Southern Italy  with the links provided.

Video Guide: Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

Related Posts

road trip to southern italy

Additional Travel resources for planning a Southern Italy road trip

To make planning a Southern Italy road trip easier, we included some of our recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do in each destination during your road trip to Southern Italy and other European cities.

Agoda : Search thousands of destinations around the world & quickly compare prices to find amazing deals on the best flights.

CheapOAir : You can find airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, and vacation packages all on one site!

Kiwi.com : What we like about Kiwi is the fact that they are able to create combinations of flight, train, and bus tickets and offer them in a single itinerary. Also, Kiwi has what they called “ Nomad ” which helps you find the best way of visiting multiple destinations, saving you time and money.

JetRadar : You can search and compare airfares from 726 airlines and dozens of travel agencies and systems.

Agoda : Agoda is one of the world’s largest online travel accommodation platforms with a network of over 2,000,000 vacation rentals and hotels worldwide.

Hotellook : They have more than 250,000 hotels in 205 countries, working with data from more than 10 online booking systems, such as Booking.com, Agoda.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, and others.

Transportations:  

Airport Transfers :  KiwiTaxi ,  Viator

Train :  EuRail ,  Trainline  or  RailEurope  

Bus :  Flixbus : Very affordable (as low as $6) and convenient way to transfer between cities in Europe.

Car Rentals :  AutoEurope ,  EconomyBookings ,  or   GetTransfer  (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)

Bike Rental :  BikesBooking  (Bikes & scooter rentals) 

Transportation Comparison :  Omio  (search, compare, and book tickets for buses, trains, and flights all in one site)

Tours & Activities :

TakeWalks  (WalkofItaly): This is our favorite site for walking tours & day trips.

Tiqets : Great site for entrance tickets. It offers directly bookable, instantly available, and completely mobile tickets for museums, shows, and attractions all over the world.

Musement : They have good activities and tours in Italy and Spain, also many great day trips you can choose from.

GetYourGuide : A large number of tours, excursions, and other travel activities

Viator : The largest one. It has everything from tours, attractions, shore excursions, and private guides in over 2,700 destinations worldwide. It also has many transportations and transfers options and some unique experiences we didn’t find anywhere else.

Want to spend the best 7-14 days in Southern Italy and need help planning?

Want to plan your road trip to Southern Italy but don’t know where to begin? If you find this type of trip planning to be too complicated to plan on your own, we’re here to help!

At  MultiCityTrips , multi-destination travel and complicated itineraries such as a Southern Italy road trip are our specialties.  Contact us  today to learn more about how one of our experienced travel experts/destination specialists can  personalize your multi-city vacations   at the best price.

Don’t want to start from scratch and need some trip inspiration? Check out our  marketplace  for customizable pre-designed packages available right now for many amazing destinations.

To learn more about how our process of trip planning works in detail, please see our “ How It Works ” page or check out our video on  “How to Plan a Multi-City Trip to Europe in  5 Easy Steps”   here.

Have questions for us?  Schedule a FREE Call  with us here or contact one of the travel experts/destination specialists at  [email protected] , call/text us at  (888)223-2316  today.

Private Travel Coaching & Consulting Call

road trip to southern italy

Want to plan and book your upcoming trip yourself? If this is your first time traveling to any of the European destinations or you are new to multi-city, multi-country travel but prefer to manage every part of your trip on your own, this option is for you! 

For just  $150 per hour , our destination expert can answer any questions you might have as you plan and book your dream trip. From assisting with route planning, and destination selection, recommending the best areas or places to stay, the best transportation options, things to do and see, saving tips and so much more! 

Ready to plan your trip with our help? Book your private coaching session with our destination expert now and we’ll confirm your appointment within 24 hours!

More Travel Inspiration & Guides

road trip to southern italy

7 of the Most Amazing Day Trips from Brussels

road trip to southern italy

10 of the Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

road trip to southern italy

7 of the Best Spanish Islands You Will Love

road trip to southern italy

2 Days in Barcelona Itinerary & The Best Way to Explore The City You Love

road trip to southern italy

9 Incredible Hidden Gems in Iceland You’ll Love

road trip to southern italy

7 of the Most Amazing Day Trips from Amsterdam

road trip to southern italy

10 of The Best Things to Do in Normandy You Will Love

road trip to southern italy

7 of the Best Day Trips from Milan by Train You’ll Love

Travel resources for planning your own trip.

To make planning your European trip on your own easier, in addition to what already mentioned in our travel guide, we included some of our recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do in any destination using these travel resources:

European River Cruises:

Uniworld River Cruises : The world’s best and most awarded luxury river cruise line—offers itineraries in spectacular destinations throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, Asia, and Peru. The company’s European fleet features luxurious ships with an average capacity of 120 guests, the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the river cruise industry, enticing shore excursions, world-class gourmet cuisine, impeccable hospitality, and numerous other all-inclusive benefits.

Pre- and Post-cruise/Tour Extensions:  Uniworld curated pre-and post-cruise/tour extensions make it easy to add a few days to the front or back end of your trip while leaving the planning to them

The packages include a variety of hotel options, transfers, and a dedicated destination expert to escort you along the way.

Airport Transfers & Transportations:  

Airport Transfers: GetTransfer offers both airport transfers & car rentals with a personal driver. Other airport transfer options are KiwiTaxi and Viator.

Train :  EuroRail ,  Trainline ,  or  RailEurope are all great sites for train tickets as well as Rail Passes if you would like to add more flexibility to your trip. They are good for most trains throughout Europe. For trains in Italy, we like and recommend ItaliaRail . As for Portugal, you will need to go to the official website for Comboios de Portugal (the Portuguese train company) to book your train tickets when traveling in Portugal.

CarRentals :  AutoEurope ,  EconomyBookings ,  or   GetTransfer  (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)

Bike Rental :  BikesBooking is a great site for bikes & scooter rentals

Travel Insurance:

Travel Guard :  Their comprehensive travel insurance programs, starting at $30, include per-trip & annual plans, coverage for trip cancellation , trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, baggage loss & more! Travel Guard provides 24/7-customer service with a personal touch through its World Service Center.

DISCLAIMER : Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links, MultiCityTrips may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Trip by Travel Experts

Need help planning a trip and find the best vacation package for your multi-city trip to Europe? If you find this type of trip planning to be too complicated to plan on your own, we’re here to help!

At  MultiCityTrips , multi-city, multi-country European vacations, and complicated itineraries are our specialties. Contact us today to learn more about how one of our experienced travel experts/destination specialists can personalize an amazing multi-city trip to your dream destinations in Europe.

Ready for a trip? Check out our planning options and get in touch with us today!

road trip to southern italy

Featured Pre-Designed Packages

These air-inclusive, pre-designed multi-city European vacation packages can be personalized to suit your needs!

road trip to southern italy

8 Nights/ 9 Days Signature Escape to Berlin, Dresden (Day Trip), and Prague

road trip to southern italy

6 Nights/7 Days Signature Escape to Amsterdam and Copenhagen

road trip to southern italy

9 Nights/ 10 Days Signature Escape to Milan, Lake Como and Venice

road trip to southern italy

6 Nights/7 Days Signature Escape to Paris and Rome

lisbon & barcelona

Schedule a FREE Consultation

Not sure or can’t decide which planning option is right for you? Schedule a free 30-minute call with one of our travel experts to discuss your travel needs today!

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for motorhoming & road trips

Wandering Bird Motorhome travel vanlife & road trip logo

Ultimate Italy Road Trip (North & South)

Italy Road Trip ideas and itinerary

Planning an Italy road trip? Here are itinerary ideas for Northern and Southern Italy, plus maps, route planner, best places to visit and more!

Don’t forget to grab your FREE road trip planner to help you keep everything organised.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

JUMP AHEAD TO...

Italy Road Trip

Italy has an interesting reputation when it comes to road trips. It’s infamous for crazy drivers doing reckless things on tiny roads… and those stories aren’t entirely inaccurate.

Driving in Italy CAN be challenging. There are indeed crazy drivers who refuse to give way. There are some difficult routes and roads can be poorly maintained, especially in the south of Italy.

BUT, before you give up the idea of an Italian road trip completely, it’s one of our favourite countries in Europe to drive around. The weather is often wonderful (MUCH better than the UK), the people are welcoming (unless they’re driving and refusing to give way!) and the food involves pasta, pizza and copious amounts of ice cream. Seriously, what’s not to love.

It doesn’t matter whether you are travelling Italy by car, motorhoming or campervanning in Italy or exploring by bike- there’s plenty here for you to start planning your perfect Italy road trip. We’ve provided road trip itineraries, places to visit and more to help you have an amazing adventure.

Ultimate Italy road trip Planner

Don’t forget to grab your FREE road trip planner- this helpful guide will allow you to make notes on the places you want to visit in Italy and keep it all organised so you can remember it all.

Make planning your next road trip EASY (& fun!)

When you’re planning a road trip, keeping track & organising all your ideas is often the hardest part. Fix that TODAY with our printable pdf road trip planner. Grab yours FREE now

road trip to southern italy

This form subscribes you to our mailing list. We share tips, itineraries, stupid mistakes and guides like this for road trippers and motorhomers.

We never spam (yuck) and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Planning a driving holiday in Italy

Italian road trip basics.

Some quick tips for driving in Italy:

  • Italy drives on the right
  • Motorways are GREEN, dual carriageways are blue (opposite to the UK and much of Europe)
  • The maximum speed for private vehicles under 3.5t is 130kph (81mph) on motorways but speed limits are lower for cars towing caravans and for motorhomes over 3.5t in weight.
  • When on two-lane motorways, dipped headlights must be used.
  • If driving through towns and villages, only use the horn in an emergency.
  • Buses and trams have right of way.
  • Seatbelts are compulsory
  • In-car speed camera detectors and motorhome sat-nav systems warning of the presence of radars are illegal (whether they’re in use or not!)
  • Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal, but you can use a hands-free unit.
  • Minor traffic offences can result in on-the-spot fines.
  • UK driving licences are perfectly acceptable to use and you probably won’t need an IDP (find out the changes made to driving in Europe after BREXIT )
  • You will need a green card to prove you have insurance cover when travelling in Italy.

Best places in Italy for a road trip- campervanning in Italy tips

Speed limits in Italy

Speed Limits are as follows for cars and vehicles under 3.5t (unless otherwise signed!)

  • 130 km/h (80 mph) on motorways
  • 110km/hr (30mph) on major roads
  • 90 km/h (50 mph) on minor roads (out of town)
  • 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas

In rain or snow conditions, the limit is lowered to 110 k/h on motorways and 90 k/h on trunk roads- this WILL NOT be signposted- you’re expected to know it

Fuel Stations in Italy

Fuel prices are comparable to France. and slightly cheaper than the UK. Buy fuel anywhere apart from on the main roads- it’ll be cheaper.

There is a ‘two-tier’ payment system in Italy. A cheaper option if you fill yourself (self-service), and a more expensive rate if you get a forecourt attendant to do it for you. There’s often a symbol of a man with a pump, but ‘con servicio’ or servizio for service and ‘self’ for self-service.

Many stations close overnight and on Sundays. Chiuso means closed in Italian and Aperto means open.

Petrol (Unleaded) is Benzina senza piombo/ “Benzina verde”. It’s also called Normale (95) or Speciale (98) and will be green handles at the pump.

Diesel is Gasolio / Diesel and will be black or yellow at the pump.

Planning to take your motorhome to Europe?

Europe Motorhome travel checklist- FREE

GUIDE: Stop the overwhelm with our step-by-step guide. Contains eBook, checklists and more. Complete Europe Motorhome Travel Toolkit

CHECKLIST: Don’t forget to grab your FREE Europe motorhome travel checklist HERE

GEAR – If you need any motorhome gear for touring Europe, here’s what we recommend.

Low Emission Zones and ZTL’s in Italy

Many major cities and towns are trying to reduce pollution levels by restricting vehicles into the centre. This is a ‘Zone Traffico Limitato’ or ZTL. Most ZTLs are for residents only, so if you drive into a ZTL you will receive a fine through the post. Also, NO rented vehicles are allowed in a ZTL at any time.

Low Emission Zones are becoming more common throughout Europe. If you do decide to drive into a city with no ZTL, check if there is an LEZ or congestion charge to pay. Alternatively, park outside the city and use public transport to access the centre.

Hiring a vehicle for your Italy Road Trip

If you don’t want to drive or are planning to fly in, you can hire a car or campervan for your Italy road trip. If you’re flying into Italy, you’ll need to pick an airport near the area you want to explore. Then you’ll need to find a hire company with a base near there and plan how to get from the airport to the campervan.

If you’re driving and then hiring, make sure the hire company has somewhere secure to park your car whilst you’re off touring around Italy.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

These might help:

  • Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
  • Find the best deals for car rental

READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

Driving in Italy- what to do in the event of a road traffic accident

You should have a European Claim Form provided by your insurer before you leave. In the event of an accident, all parties complete and sign the form at the scene and then send a copy to your insurer for assessment.

What to do at the scene:

  • Stop your vehicle immediately but safely- out of the flow of traffic if possible.
  • If a vehicle is blocking the road, use hazard lights and put the red warning triangle 30 metres from the scene to warn approaching traffic
  • Name and address of all the people involved in the accident
  • Vehicle registration numbers of all parties
  • Insurance company details of all parties
  • Take photos of damage using a camera, GoPro or phone

For more details, read our step-by-step guide on dealing with a road traffic accident in Europe

Best time of year to do an Italian Road Trip

As with all European road trips , WHEN is almost as important as WHERE.

We’ve enjoyed several road trips in Italy, both in a car and in our motorhome. We’ve visited in every season- and when you go definitely does make a difference.

Italy Road Trips in Spring

Spring is a great time to road trip in Italy. The later you leave it, the better the weather will be. Try and avoid Easter if you can- many places are closed for religious reasons, but it also gets busy as schools are on holiday.

Italian roadtrips in Summer

Summer is crowded pretty much everywhere in Italy. Although the weather is generally great, having to queue for major attractions in the heat can make you wilt. Also, many hotels and campsites book up months in advance.

Roadtripping Italy in Autumn

This is our favourite time to road trip around Italy. We toured the Dolomites in early October and the weather was perfect. See all our favourite places in Europe in Autumn

Italy road trips in Winter

Don’t dismiss Italy in Winter – there’s still plenty to do. Northern Italy does get cold and there’s snow in winter, so you’ll want to make sure you have proper heating in your camper or motorhome.

Obviously, the further south you go the warmer it will be. Sicily is where the Italians go to escape the chilly temperatures in the north, so that can be busy. Of course, if you want to go skiing with your motorhome, stay in the Dolomites and enjoy some of the best slopes in Europe.

Snow continues in Northern Italy all the way through until March. We did a tour from Rome to Florence (via Pisa) in February and there was still snow on the ground, it was freezing cold, but the lack of people was wonderful- we practically had some of the museums and popular sites to ourselves! If that’s too cold for you, here are the warmest places in Europe in February .

road trip to southern italy

Italy Road Trip Route ideas

If you have the time, there are countless places and routes you could take in Italy. To help, we’ve separated the country into regions and sections for you, as well as giving the best places to visit in each area.

Road trip to Italy from UK- route planner

If you’re driving to Italy from the UK, you need to allow at least one day to reach the Italian border. There are several routes you can take.

If you’re planning a road trip through France to Italy, we’ve put together some of the best driving routes for motorhomes, campers, caravans and cars (complete with estimated toll charges)

road trip to southern italy

Tolls in Italy

Italy doesn’t have a vignette- it has tolls (pedaggio). You collect a ticket at the machine as you enter the road system and pay (either a person or machine) at the end in cash or on a card. Tolls are generally more expensive than Spain but cheaper than in France.

You can use a tollpass/ telepass (like e-Movis) or you can pay-as-you-go by cash or card (we always recommend carrying some cash- just in case!) Signs indicate the means of payment accepted on each lane.

You can calculate the toll cost of your intended route here

Italy Road Trip- How long to spend touring Italy

Italy road trip one week.

It is possible to do an Italy road trip if you only have a week for your holiday. However, you will need to plan your trip carefully to make sure you get the most out of it. For only one week in Italy, we recommend staying in Northern Italy (unless of course you’re flying in and then renting a vehicle)

If possible, going for at least 10 days will allow you to see much more, and be able to relax and enjoy it.

Italy Road trip 10-14 days (two weeks)

Obviously, the longer you have, the more you can see. As a guide, we’d suggest two weeks for road tripping around Northern Italy, and 10-14 days for Southern Italy.

Driving from North to South Italy

If you’re desperate to see as much of the country (and eat as many of the different regional Italian dishes ) as possible, it takes about 12 hours (1160km) to drive from Milan in the North to Catanzaro in the South- according to Google maps. Personally, I think this is VERY optimistic and you should allow at least 2 days driving.

For the purposes of this guide, we’re calling Northern Italy anything from Rome north, and Southern Italy anything south of Rome.

New to motorhome or camper travel in Europe? You might find these posts helpful:

Tour Europe in a Motorhome; Motorhome Europe Travel

See all our Europe motorhoming posts here

NEED GEAR? If you need any kit or essentials for motorhoming in Europe, here’s what we recommend and where to find it

Northern Italy road trip

There are some spectacular places in Northern Italy to explore by road. In fact, we prefer Northern Italy to Southern Italy- but that’s mainly because we love the mountains. Here are some ideas for your road trip.

Driving in Europe after Brexit

Northern Italy Road Trip highlights and best places to visit

Some of our favourite places in Northern Italy include:

  • Gran Paradiso
  • Cinque Terre, Portofino and Portovenere
  • The Italian Lakes (especially Lake Garda)
  • The Dolomites

Stelvio Pass

Northern italy bucket list map.

Here’s a map of some of the places mentioned on our Northern Italy road trip itinerary, so you can find them easily.

You can find out more about each area below.

Northern Italy Road Trip Map

Italy North West Coast road trip

If you’re driving into Italy, especially if you’re driving from the UK, many people find themselves arriving in the North West- from France or Switzerland. If you are going motorhoming in Switzerland , remember you may need more than a vignette.

This is the perfect introduction to Italy. There are national parks, beautiful villages, amazing coastline and dramatic mountains. It can include Gran Paradiso National Park, Cinque Terre, Portofino and Portovenere, La Spezia and down into Tuscany.

Gran Paradiso National Park

road trip to southern italy

The Gran Paradiso National Park was one of the first National Parks to be created in Italy and is popular for skiing, wildlife watching and hiking. 

Only 20% of the park is forest- the rest is scrubland, mountains or grassland, so if you want to see wildlife the forests are a great place to head to. You might even see the famous Ibex and Chamois.

The highest point is Gran Paradiso mountain, which stands at 4061m but there are plenty of other mountains and valleys to explore. There are many hiking trails and walks- and several guidebooks you can buy to stay on track. 

How long to stay in Gran Paradiso

You can get a taste of the park in a day, but if you’d like to do any hikes or see more of the highlights, stay in the area for at least 2 or 3 days.

Where to stay in Gran Paradiso?

If you’re in a campervan, be careful as wild camping is forbidden in National Parks, but there are plenty of campsites and Sostas around.

If you’re touring Italy by car or bike, here are some wonderful accommodation options for you .

road trip to southern italy

We love the Bellevue Hotel and Spa – friendly, relaxing and right near the glacier.

Highlights of a road trip in Gran Paradiso National Park

Some of the best things to do in Gran Paradiso include:

  • See Gran Paradiso- the highest mountain
  • Drive the Colle de Nivolet- scenic mountain pass
  • See the views at Serru Lake
  • Drive Col Ferret- mountain pass
  • Cascate di Lillaz- 3-tier waterfall

Cinque Terre and Portovenere

road trip to southern italy

Cinque Terre is one of the most famous regions in Italy- and for good reason! It’s a series of 5 beautiful villages, all carved into the incredible coastal cliffs of north-west Italy. 

Cinque Terre literally translates to “five lands”, which are the 5 villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore . It has been designated a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Portofino is just outside the Cinque Terre protected zone, but is well worth a visit too.

Driving into Cinque Terre

NOTE: Do NOT try and drive into Cinque Terre, even with a car and ESPECIALLY not with a motorhome or campervan. The roads are tiny and not easy for tourists, plus there’s little to no parking. Some hotels in the area do offer parking- if you’re driving to one of them try to avoid arriving at peak times, so the roads will be quieter.

Alternatively, find somewhere safe to park your vehicle for a couple of nights (such as in La Spezia) and leave it there whilst you enjoy a stay at a hotel in the middle of one of the prettiest places in Italy.

How long to stay in Cinque Terre

We did Cinque Terre in one day and it is possible, but it was a LOT of walking. Staying for 2 days is better- 3 if you want to see Portofino as well.

Where to stay in Cinque Terre?

road trip to southern italy

If you want to leave your vehicle safely somewhere and stay in the heart of Cinque Terre, you won’t beat the views from Il Sogno di Manarola by The First

See all Cinque Terre hotels and deals here

Highlights of Cinque Terre

Some of the best things to do in the area include:

  • Enjoy the sandy beach at Monterosso
  • Walking the trail from Monterosso to Vernazza
  • Exploring Vernazza Harbour and Castle Doria
  • Riomaggiore
  • See the sunset at Manarola

Portovenere

Portovenere is further south along the coast. Whilst not technically a part of Cinque Terre, Portovenere is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town looks like something from a fairytale and is well worth a stop on your itinerary.

If you visit in August, you’ll find the Madonna Bianca Festival when hundreds, if not thousands, of Roman torches are lit at night. Also, each Monday there is a market in the town centre. 

Italian Lakes Road Trip

road trip to southern italy

The Italian Lakes are like a warmer version of the UK Lake District- with more pizza instead of scones. They’re all pretty, but our favourite lakes are Maggiore and Garda.

How long to visit the Italian Lakes for?

We stayed for a week and only really explored Lake Garda and Maggiore properly. So you can easily spend two weeks in the area and still find things to do. Of course, you can just spend a day or two here and get a taste.

Where to stay in the Italian Lakes

There are plenty of incredible hotels, BnBs and campsites around the Italian Lakes (many with lake views!). One of our favourites is Hotel Spiaggia d’Oro Boutique Hotel , with an incredible pool AND views across the lake.

road trip to southern italy

See all options and current deals for Lake Garda accommodation

Highlights in the Italian lakes

Some of our favourite places in the lakes include:

  • Sirmione on Lake Garda. This picturesque town dates back to Roman times. The fortress is 12th century and is one of the most beautiful castles in Italy . You can book a tour around the inside if you wish- the views down the lake are even better higher up.
  • Grotte di Catullo- ruins of a Roman Villa built over 2000 years ago! Get here as early as you can because it’s a huge tourist attraction and by mid-morning it will be very crowded. 
  • If you are road tripping Italy in a car or motorbike (or want to rent one for the day), don’t miss the Strada Della Forra Gorge road on the west side of Garda- it’s spectacular. The road is literally carved into a gorge and it’s so steep and narrow that only cars and motorbikes are allowed up it. The tunnels through the gorge are so low that you couldn’t drive through in anything bigger than a large car- I think even a 4×4 might be too big! 
  • If you like heights, there’s a zipwire near Lake Maggiore which has been on my bucket list for a while!

Milan to Lake Como Road Trip

road trip to southern italy

This Italian Road Trip was driven by Jamie from Travel Addict

The drive between Milan and Lake Como is only 1.5 hours, but don’t rush north without taking a short break to Monza. This utterly charming Italian village is the halfway point between Milan and Lake Como. Most of the ancient buildings date all the way back to the 1400s, but the town is currently best known as a Formula 1 racing circuit

You can drive around the loop of Lake Como, or take a ferry tour. The most popular towns on the lake are Como and Bellagio, for good reason. Some of the smaller towns have their own unique charm – Varenna, Lenno, Tremezzo and Menaggio to name a few worth visiting. And no drive on the lake is complete without a stop at one of the famous villas, such as Villa del Balbianello or Villa Carlotta.

TOP TIP: The roads are doable with a motorhome, but some of them are VERY small, so try to go early in the morning or well out of peak season.

Afterwards, head west to Lake Maggiore for more of Italy’s lake region, or East to the incredibly beautiful city of Bergamo to extend your journey a few extra days. Bergamo has a rich and long history, incredible architecture that spans a hillside, and a wonderfully authentic vibe.

road trip to southern italy

If you’re feeling brave on your Italian road trip, head north from the lakes and drive the Stelvio Pass.

The Stelvio Pass is a high mountain pass carved into the Italian Alps. It has a series of 48 hairpin turns and rises to an elevation of 2,756m (9,045ft) above sea level, making it one of the highest paved roads in Europe.

It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the views are phenomenal.

TOP TIP: Drive Stelvio Pass early in the morning- before the crowds arrive and the road becomes even more crazy!

(And yes, it looks a lot like Trollstigen Road in Norway !)

Dolomites Road Trip

Dolomites road trip

The Dolomites are one of the most breathtaking mountain regions in Europe. The incredible rock formations, combined with the beautiful lakes, valleys and incredible roads make this one of the best road trip destinations ANYWHERE, not just in Italy.

Where are the Dolomites?

The Dolomites are in Northern Italy, about an hour north of Lake Garda.

Venice to Bolzano (the start of the Great Dolomites Road) will take you about 2 and a half hours (the distance is 267km)

Milan to Bolzano is about 3 and a half hours (the distance is 278km)

How long to spend in the Dolomites?

We spent 4 days roadtripping around the Dolomites and feel like we barely scratched the surface. If you want to just drive and see the scenery, 2 or 3 days will give you a taste. If you want to hike and enjoy the outdoors, you need at least 5-7 (and still will want to go back!)

See our full Dolomites road trip itinerary

Highlights of a Dolomites Road Trip

Some of our favourite places in the Dolomites include:

  • Tre Cime di Lavaredo (seriously, if you are doing an Italy road trip in a motorhome or campervan, you HAVE to stay up here for at least one night (we stayed for 2)
  • Driving the Great Dolomites Road – this was magic and Lake Carezza is on it too.
  • Lago di Braies
  • Val di Funes
  • Via Ferrata

Where to stay in the Dolomites

If you’re exploring the Dolomites by motorhome or camper, there are some wonderful campsites and aires with breathtaking views. Don’t miss a chance to stay at the top of Tre Cime di Lavaredo- it’s incredible.

If you’re not in a motorhome or camper, base yourself at one of these fabulous locations (many with views of the Dolomites!)

road trip to southern italy

Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world- there’s a reason it’s one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Europe . Avoid in high summer- it’s just too crowded to see anything.

You can’t go road tripping in Italy (especially Northern Italy) and NOT make a stop to see Venice. This incredible city has canals, history, stunning views- and it is utterly unsuitable for vehicles.

If you’re exploring Europe in February, don’t miss the Venice Carnival – it will be crazy busy but spectacular!

When is the best time to visit Venice?

We highly recommend visiting out of high season. Our favourite time to visit Venice is after summer- in fact, it’s one of the best places to see in Europe in October.

But no matter what time of year you go, do NOT try and drive into the city, especially with a motorhome or camper.

Where to stay in Venice

road trip to southern italy

If you want to stay in the heart of Venice, the St Regis Venice has the most incredible views.

See all ideas and deals for Venice Hotels

East Coast Italy Road Trip

The east coast of Italy (The Adriatic Coast) has much to recommend it. You can actually drive from Venice to San Marino in about 3 hours, but the prettier route is using the coast roads and taking your time.

Where to go on the East coast of Italy

Some of the best places to visit on the Italian Adriatic Coast include:

  • Trieste: up near the Slovenian border
  • Comacchio: Don’t miss the Trepponti fortified bridge
  • Po Delta Natural Park: UNESCO World Heritage site protecting around 54,000 hectares and many species of local flora and fauna
  • Cesenatico: Don’t miss the Porto Canale, which runs through the historic city centre, or the Maritime Museum which houses several vintage boats.
  • Rimini: can be crowded, but out of season is well worth a visit. Don’t miss Tiberio Bridge- the historic Roman bridge crossing the Marecchia River or the former fishing district of Borgo San Giuliano which now has colourful houses and a great atmosphere.
  • San Marino- one of the oldest and smallest countries in the world!

road trip to southern italy

San Marino is actually a totally different country. It’s totally surrounded by Italy, but is independent. San Marino is one of the oldest and smallest countries in the world- only 23sq miles and is mostly one city.

It was founded on September 3rd, 301. The people who live in San Marino are not “Italians” – they are referred to as Sammarinese. They are very proud of their independence from Italy.

NOTE: San Marino is not part of the European Union although they do use the euro as currency.

Spend at least a day enjoying San Marino. There are castles, museums and towers to explore- you won’t get to them all in a day!

Recommended by Pamela from the Directionally Challenged Traveler

Tuscany Road Trip Planner

Italy Road Trip ideas and itinerary

This Tuscan Road Trip itinerary was driven by Martina and Jürgen from Places of Juma

There are many highlights of a Tuscany road trip- the landscapes, the historic towns and the pretty stone villages. Tuscany is also famous for art and delicious cuisine. The infro-structure isn’t bad in most places, and it’s not too crowded, except in high summer.

Some of the best places to see in Tuscany include:

  • Siena- famous for the Piazza del Campo
  • Arezzo- the antique market is legendary
  • Val d’Orcia- UNESCO world Heritage and fabulous views
  • Montalcino- famous for its for its Brunello di Montalcino wine

How long to spend in Tuscany

Plan at least a few days to explore Tuscany. Many people spend 2 weeks just in this area along!

Where to stay in Tuscany

There are many lovely agritourism accommodations all over the place, so you can stay at vineyards, farms or local producers for the night if you want to taste their produce. There are also plenty of hotels and BnBs in the region- here are some wonderful ideas for you.

road trip to southern italy

If you’re looking for a beautiful city in Italy, you need to head to Florence. This picturesque city is famous for the culture, renaissance art, architecture and monuments. It’s full of art galleries and museums including the famous Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Pitti. 

The centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are plenty of churches, cathedrals- including the world-famous Duomo and idyllic streets to explore, as well as plenty of upmarket shops and unique boutiques to discover. 

As well as the galleries mentioned above, you should also visit the Galleria dell’Accademia, which contains the incredible marble sculptures by Michelangelo and others, notably David and Prisoners, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines and Botticelli’s Madonna and Child and Madonna of the Sea.

Another must-see is the Ponte Vecchio, one of the most historic bridges in Florence. As well as being picturesque, shops line each side of the bridge, including jewellers, artisans and souvenir shops. 

Where to stay in Florence

If you are visiting Florence while campervanning in Italy, there are plenty of great campsites near the city but if you’d like to stay in the centre, head for the Laurus Al Duomo hotel and be awestruck at the views.

road trip to southern italy

See all ideas and deals for Florence Hotels

road trip to southern italy

Rome is the capital of Italy and the most visited tourist destination- and for good reason. We’ve been to Rome many times and never get tired of the history, the ancient sites, the architecture or the incredible views.

When is the best time to visit Rome?

We highly recommend visiting out of season. Rome is always busy and always open, so no worries about missing the best parts. In fact, Rome is one of the best cities in Europe to visit in Winter.

Having said that, our favourite time to visit Rome is in October, when the colours of the changing leaves look AMAZING against the backdrop of the city.

How long to visit Rome for?

If you’ve never been to Rome before, stay at least 3-4 days. There’s so much to see, and if you don’t plan enough time, you’ll miss out.

TOP TIP: Don’t drive into Rome- use public transport.

Where to stay in Rome

There are several campsites on the outskirts of Rome, where you could leave your camper. If you’re in a car, or here are some great deals on hotels for any budget.

road trip to southern italy

If you’d like a central location, the Otivm Hotel has incredible views and is right in the heart of the city.

Southern Italy Road Trip

So, you’ve made it to Rome and want to keep heading south? Ok, let’s talk about Southern Italy road trips.

You’ll notice a difference in southern Italy in terms of road quality, and also in how many service points and fuel stations there are- so make sure to make use of them when you find them.

It takes about 2 and a half hours to drive from Rome to Naples. The A3/E45 autostrada is the fastest route and is fine for motorhomes/ campers. From Naples, you can start exploring the famous Amalfi coastline and other historical areas, like Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.

Be careful- parts of the Amalfi Coast route are unsuitable for motorhomes and campers.

Highlights and best places to visit on a Southern Italy Road Trip

road trip to southern italy

Some of our favourite places to visit in Southern Italy include:

  • The Amalfi Coast
  • Pompeii and Herculaneun
  • Puglia and Alberobello
  • Cilento National Park and Paestum -the ancient Temple ruins
  • Sassi di Matera (Caves of Mattera)

Southern Italy Road Trip Map

Here’s a map of some of the best places to visit in Southern Italy. See below for more details on each.

Southern Italy Road Trip Map

Personally, we didn’t rate Naples at all, but we didn’t go into the city centre, which is apparently much nicer than the outskirts. Still, it is the home of Pizza, so I feel we need to return and give it a chance.

Pompeii and Herculaneam

Pompeii is the famous Roman city which was buried when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. It’s incredible to be able to walk the streets and see shops, temples, houses and even the local brothel! There’s a great motorhome campsite just across the street, Camping Spartacus

If you get chance, be sure to visit Herculaneum, which is closer to Naples than Pompeii, but much less well-known and therefore less touristy.

Amalfi Coast Road Trip

road trip to southern italy

The Amalfi coast is one of the iconic Italy road trips. Be warned, some of the route from Sorrento to Salerno is impossible with a motorhome or camper, so you won’t be able to drive the entire thing unless you have a bike or scooter with you!

Larger than many  towns on the Amalfi Coast , but warm and full of character, Sorrento is fun. The old town is absolutely delightful and has a great choice of restaurants. As the sunsets, relax with a glass of Limoncello, the local lemon liqueur. There are often street musicians on the promenade overlooking the sea.

TOP TIP: Be sure to get chips from the ‘Queens Chips’- often voted the best in the area.

Agerola & Positano

Agerola is the beginning of the ten-km hike called Path of the Gods. The views are stunning and at Vallone Porto, near Positano, a tumbling waterfall and canyon, mark the end of the walk. Positano is an amazing town, built vertically on a rocky precipice.

Amalfi and Ravello

These are two of the larger towns. Amalfi has the Duomo di Amalfi with its mosaics in yellow and green and there are a number of boat trips to enjoy or the chance to slow the tempo and simply relax on the beach.

Ravello’s treasures include two stunning medieval palaces with amazing views of the bay far below.

The last stop on the route is Capri. Take a boat trip to the grottos, or a cable car from the harbour up to the town with its snazzy boutiques and romantic restaurants. 

This Italy road trip itinerary was driven by Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

Cilento Region Road Trip

Cilento is one of the undiscovered gems in Southern Italy. For some reason, it’s not as famous as the other regions- which makes exploring it even better, as it’s generally quieter.

There’s a national park here, which is wonderful to explore, but the two highlights for me are the INCREDIBLE beaches- and the Paestum ruins.

Paestum Ruins

road trip to southern italy

Paestum used to be an ancient Greek city and is now famous for the ruins of thre ancient Greek temples, dating from about 550 to 450 BC, which are in a surprisingly good state. The walls and amphitheatre are largely intact, and the bottom of the walls of many other structures remain, as well as paved roads. The site is open to the public, and is well worth a visit.

road trip to southern italy

Honestly, much of the coastline of the Cilento region looks similar to this, but this town is a great place to stop for a night or two on your Southern Italy road trip. Thre’s not a huge beach, but the water in unbelievably clear and wonderful to swim in.

Puglia- the heel of the boot!

Puglia is on the Adriatic coast in the south east of Italy and offers a wonderful mix of crystal clear sea and ancient history.

road trip to southern italy

Some of the highlights include:

  • Bari, the Capital of Puglia
  • Polignano a Mare
  • Alberobello- with the cone-shaped houses
  • Lecce and Otranto
  • The Cave of Poetry!

Puglia Road Trip itinerary

This Italy Road Trip idea was suggested by Ophelie from Limitless Secrets

You can easily spend one week exploring Puglia as there are many beautiful spots to visit! Start your Puglia road trip in Bari, the capital of Puglia.

Bari has an interesting Old Town that you might want to visit before taking to the road. Then head to Polignano a Mare, about a 30-minute drive away, which is a great place to enjoy the beach and some spectacular coastline views as it perched on top of cliffs.

The next stop is Monopoli, just 15 minutes down the coast. In this charming town you can wander in the Old Town- the Old Port is especially picturesque. 

road trip to southern italy

After that, head inland to the beautiful town of Alberobello- famous for its trulli (cone-shaped) houses. It really does look like something out of a storybook. Alberobello is only 25 minutes from Monopoli.

Then head west to Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage built on the side of the Matera Gravine and full of caves (Sassi) which are amazing to visit.

Head south for 2 hours and visit Lecce- famous for the beautiful baroque architecture. If you want more beautiful coastline views, surprising rock formations and natural pools, be sure to visit the Cave of Poetry (Grotta Della Poesia), which is a natural swimming pool in Roca Vecchia village, just 30-minute drive east of Lecce.

road trip to southern italy

Lastly, don’t miss Otranto. It doesn’t look much on the map, but the sea here is one of the clearest azure we’ve ever seen!

Where to stay in Puglia?

The best places to eat and stay in Puglia are the agriturismo: these are farms designed to also receive guests (for food or for accommodation). You will find plenty to choose from! 

Sardinia- another Italy Road Trip idea

road trip to southern italy

This Italy road trip itinerary was suggested by Rachel of Average Lives

If you’ve explored enough of the Italian mainland, you can extend your Italy road trip to one of the islands nearby, such as Sardinia.

Sardinia is full of beautiful beaches, historic castles, and delicious food. You can enjoy. aroad trip in North Sardinia , from Olbia to Alghero, which will take around five days to a week, depending on your travel style.

Start by exploring the quaint streets and markets of the city of Olbia. After hop on an affordable ferry (with your car) to the nearby Archipelago of La Maddalena. In La Maddalena town, head to I Vittelloni for trendy vibes and the best aperitivo. Over the next couple of days, explore Caprera Island and visit Cala Coticcio, the Garibaldi Museum, and Cala Napoletana. You won’t want to leave, but you must follow the coast to Santa Teresa Di Gallura. First, eat breakfast, have a coffee, and then spend your day exploring the colourful streets, the Spanish Tower and watch the sunset at the nearby hippie village – Valle Della Luna.

The next morning visit Li Cossi for a swim in the emerald water before spending the evening in the medieval village of Castelsardo. After you have finished exploring, make your way towards Alghero and stop to cast your eyes on the ‘Elephant Rock’ and then enjoy the Catalan-style town. In Alghero, you can see sensational beaches and take a trip to Grotte Di Nettuno in Capo Caccia’s cliffs. Most importantly, you will have finished one of the most beautiful road trips in Italy and won’t want to leave the idyllic island.

How to get to Sardinia from Italy

It’s easy to reach the island by car or motorhome from mainland Italy because you can catch a ferry from Genoa to Olbia. Be warned- this ferry can be expensive, so book well in advance if you can, especially in the summer when it gets booked up quickly.

Other posts you might find useful:

  • How to plan a Europe Road Trip
  • Essential Kit you need to drive in Europe (with checklist)
  • Unmissable Europe road trip ideas
  • 15 essential tips for Europe road trips

See all our Italy road trip posts

See all our Europe road trip posts and tips

road trip to southern italy

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Sharing is caring!

Similar Posts

Cirque De Gavarnie- 10 things you need to know (with map!)

Cirque De Gavarnie- 10 things you need to know (with map!)

Val di Funes- is it REALLY worth your time?

Val di Funes- is it REALLY worth your time?

Driving the Vrsic Pass – Slovenia’s spectacular mountain road

Driving the Vrsic Pass – Slovenia’s spectacular mountain road

The BEST Scenic Routes in Scotland you MUST drive

The BEST Scenic Routes in Scotland you MUST drive

Motorhoming & Campervanning in Italy- The Ultimate Guide

Motorhoming & Campervanning in Italy- The Ultimate Guide

The Wales Way driving routes (visit breathtaking places in Wales)

The Wales Way driving routes (visit breathtaking places in Wales)

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Claire's Footsteps

All Destinations , Europe , Italy , Overland Itineraries , Plan Your Trip

Southern italy road trip: naples to palermo.

road trip to southern italy

History and local culture. What a combination. And what a great quest to pursue on a Southern Italy road trip from Naples to Palermo, the location of which is a paradise for lovers of both. Here is a 1,200-mile, 2-week odyssey to maximize both these aspects by visiting the best cities in Sicily , famous for both history and local culture.

Although southern Italy has a reasonably good rail service, your best bet is to rent a car in order to navigate the narrow streets of some ancient towns and to visit archeological sites that may be far from the cities.

South Italy Road Trip: Naples to Palermo Drive Itinerary

Naples – 2-4 days

road trip to southern italy

Naples is the starting point of this southern Italy road trip. It’s a large city, and there are plenty of facts about Naples that make it an interesting place to visit.

One of the things Naples is famous for is erotic art. Some of the city’s art was so erotic, in fact, that it was banned from view during many periods throughout the city’s history. As late as the last century the collection could only be viewed by “men of mature age and respectable morals” who were willing to pay large sums.

Women were considered too sensitive to be exposed to the collections. This hide and seek continued through the 1960s when the exhibit was closed again to be officially reopened in 2000.  Even today children cannot enter without an accompanying adult.

The ‘secret room’ of the National Archeological Museum in Naples with its extensive collection of Greek and Roman antiquities has some of the best of this erotic art. The exhibit was fascinating – a peek into ancient Roman culture that still draws interest 2000 years after they were first created.

The other big draw in this wonderfully chaotic city is its food. Pizza is practically a religion in Naples…and with good reason.

road trip to southern italy

The city certainly lives up to its nickname, the capital of pizza. The varieties are legend including one of the largest varieties of vegetarian pizza known to man.

You’re in luck if you’re booking accomodation in Naples – from guesthouses to luxury digs to backpacker hostels, there’s all sorts in the city. Click through to check some of today’s best deals and book today .

Matera 1 -2 days

Matera is wild…a mystical dream Salvador Dali or Hieronymus Bosch could have had; perhaps the word “otherworldly” was created just so it could describe Matera. A town carved straight out of the mountain, it is known as “la Città Sotterranea” (the Subterranean City), and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

road trip to southern italy

The city has been inhabited since the Paleolithic and is so surreal and unique many movies have been filmed there including Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ, The Omen and the most recent Ben Hur.

So many sites are underground or in caves; homes, restaurants, churches…there is even an underground museum which I can only describe as poignant – because these pretty works of art exist underground, in the dark, never seeing the light of day.

road trip to southern italy

Mainland Italy to Sicily Ferry

At the very tip of the Italian boot in Reggio Calabria is the town of Villa San Giovanni.  Here is where you take the car ferry to Messina in Sicily.  The car ferry takes 30 minutes and costs about €35. The crossing itself is smooth sailing.

Taormina 1-2 days

road trip to southern italy

One of the things that makes Sicily so unique and special is the mixture of cultures that have contributed to its development.  Throughout Sicily’s history, it has been invaded and colonised by Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Vandals, Arabs, Normans, Spanish and others.

The effects of this colonisation can be seen throughout the city particularly in its architecture.  Many impressive structures are a mixture of Byzantine, Arabesque, Norman and gothic influences.

Add to this the recent immigrants from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, China, Romania, Ghana, Philippines and Morocco and you’ve got a cultural melting pot that would be the envy of any city except New York.

One of the first cities that you will visit in Sicily will be Taormina. This ancient city’s claim to fame is the nearby Mt. Etna, Sicily’s live volcano. Within the city, the big draws are Corso Umberto, the main pedestrian drag with medieval buildings on either side of the street and the Teatro Greco (Greek Theater). Built in the 3 rd century BCE, the circular amphitheater is still in use today!

Ortygia – 1 day

road trip to southern italy

Further south from Taormina is Siracusa (Syracuse) with its impressive amphitheater. Although Siracusa is the main town, it is the little adjacent island called Ortygia, which is the original settlement, that truly impresses.  Just wandering its narrow alleyways will be a trip highlight.

road trip to southern italy

It is a well-preserved medieval island with authentic trattorias and specialty shops selling home-made goods down every alley.  The colourful alleyways suddenly open on spectacular plazas, brilliant fountains and ancient ruins.

Villa Romana del Casale – half a day

road trip to southern italy

You’ll no doubt be anxious to get to Agrigento, on Sicily’s sun-baked southern coast, with its outsized reputation for Greek ruins. But on the way to Agrigento there’s an amazing, well excavated Roman villa, Villa Romana del Casale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you detour to see it, you’ll be glad. The “Villa” is more like a palace with the largest, most complex and best-preserved collection of Roman mosaics in existence.

Built in the 4th century AD Villa Romana del Casale was severely damaged at various times in its history until it was finally abandoned in the 12th century, after it was buried under a landslide.  Excavations took place throughout the 20th century and the mosaics survived relatively intact. Seeing these magnificent works of art is another one of those travel moments where you feel a connection to the past. It is an emotional experience to see such a high level of artistic achievement created 2000 years ago.

Agrigento – 2-3 days

road trip to southern italy

Agrigento certainly lives up to its reputation for Greek ruins. The Valley of Temples in Agrigento has several structures but the Tempio della Concordia, named in honour of the Roman goddess of harmony, is the most impressive.

Built of marble in the 5th century BC, it was already ancient when the Romans first saw it. It was dismantled in the middle ages, the stone used for housing and the land turned into a lime pit, of all things.  Nevertheless, what’s left will give you an idea of how impressive this place must have been once upon a time.

Monreale – 1 day

road trip to southern italy

From Sicily’s southern coast, shoot up north in a straight line to Cefalu, followed by the island’s capital city, Palermo, the jewel in Sicily’s crown.  On the way, about eight kilometres southwest of Palermo there is another can’t-miss gem quietly existing under the radar; Monreale.

You could either visit Monreale on your way to or from Palermo or stay in Palermo and visit Monreale as a day trip offered by various tours. The main attraction of the town is the showstopping cathedral and its cloisters, which date back to the 12th Century and are steeped in history. The cathedral at Monreale is one of the most fascinating religious buildings in Italy; and it is not to be missed during your Sicily road trip. There are also a handful of restaurants and bars to enjoy before or after visiting the cathedral.

road trip to southern italy

Palermo – 2-4 days

You’ve made it! The last portion of your Southern Italy road trip takes you right into the heart of Palermo, a city famed for its food, architecture and shopping. Here’s just some of my highlights of Palermo.

road trip to southern italy

The most UNESCO World Heritage Sites of any country in the world are in Italy.  Sicily has the most UNESCO sites of any Italian city. It stands to reason that the capital city, Palermo , is also the capital of World Heritage Sites.

The city itself is like a cultural amusement park with its winding alleyways, ornate decaying palaces, street markets with the strangest vegetables I’ve ever seen, cathedrals with atypical architecture, religious street processions. It’s all a little bizarre and surreal…like a Fellini movie.

 Streets and Markets

road trip to southern italy

Notwithstanding the architectural gems that are found around every corner in Palermo, the authentic Palermo is experienced in its streets, markets, and food.  The pedestrianised streets make it easy to wander around the ornate palaces; some of which have been turned into museums.

Palermo’s plazas function as the city’s living rooms filled with little cafes, music venues, art exhibits and strolling citizens.

Street food in Palermo can be found all over town in little stalls selling tasty snacks for about €1 – €2. Try as many as you can especially the “arancini” little, fried rice balls.

At the Ballaro market, one of three major markets in Palermo, we saw some very strange looking vegetables. Looks were deceiving. When we tasted them at a nearby food stall and they were delicious.

road trip to southern italy

Palermo is another vegetarian heaven. The selections are varied and cooked with imagination and innovation.

Want to book somewhere special for the end of your road trip? Check out Palermo’s best hotel deals here and book today .

If you are interested in history and culture, Italy is one of the world’s best destinations. Southern Italy offers a peek into the millennia of cultural achievements that have gone into creating the Italy of today.

Don’t go on your Southern Italy road trip without these essential items…

  • Lonely Planet Italy travel guide
  • Italian phrasebook
  • Unlocked smartphone such as the BLU Vivo – get a local SIM card and use data while on the road
  • Amazon Kindle
  • Water-to-Go Bottle

Southern Italy Climate

road trip to southern italy

Southern Italy has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. January and February are the coldest months, with temperatures ranging from 5-13 degrees; and if you are travelling in the hottest months of July or August, expect temperatures anywhere between 19-30+ degrees. October and November are Southern Italy’s wettest months, and the summertime is by far the driest time of the year.

South Italy Road Trip Driving Tips

road trip to southern italy

  • Most cars in Italy are manual, so if you can only drive automatic, be sure you book in advance and be prepared to pay some more.
  • Italians drive on the right hand side of the road – the same as America and the rest of continental Europe
  • An inverted red and white triangle means that you must give way
  • Be wary of your speed – there are a lot of cameras in place, especially on the highway
  • Apply for your international driving permit before renting a car and taking to the roads

This is a guest post written by Talek Nantes.

Native New Yorker, Talek Nantes is a freelance writer, travel consultant and founder of the travel blog,  www.travelswithtalek.com . She is a passionate travel enthusiast and enjoys sharing her travel experiences with others. Talek’s personal and professional background have led her to travel to over 100 countries. She has lived and worked throughout the world and speaks several languages. Talek has an MBA and a Masters Degree in International Relations from the University of Pennsylvania. She lives in New York City and Miami.  In her blog, Talek shares information on unique destinations, and provides actionable travel tips and advice to help travelers make the most of their time away from home. Her focus is on experiential travel, cultural immersion and interaction with local people to help travelers create their own unique travel experiences.

If you're planning a southern Italy road trip, this Naples to Palermo drive itinerary is for you. It will help you see the best things to do in south Italy and help you enjoy the best food and culture Sicily and southern Italy have to offer! Click through for full details of this Naples to Palermo road trip.

Disclaimer: some of the links in this post are affiliate links . If you make purchase using any of these links, I may make a small commission, at no extra cost to you . This is just one of the ways I keep this blog running!

' src=

  • New Zealand
  • The Philippines
  • The Netherlands
  • United Kingdom
  • Inspiration
  • Overland Itineraries
  • Packing Lists
  • Travel Tips
  • Working Abroad
  • Accomodation Guides
  • Overland Travel
  • Preserving Cultures
  • Protecting Animals
  • Living Abroad

Powered by WordPress

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

Lost your password?

← Go to Wild Junket

road trip to southern italy

Southern Italy itinerary: A dream vacation in the South of Italy

When thinking of Italy’s national heritage it’s easy to stop at Rome, eyes set on the Colosseum, one hand grasped around a trapizzino sandwich, perfectly satisfied with the capital’s array of art, architecture and food. But slip your toes further into this timeless Versace boot and you’ll see there’s more to this nation outside of its better-known cities. Saunter your way down the Southern Italy coast for an authentic break flanked by both sea and verdant countryside, stopping at historic wineries and medieval towns en route to vibrant second cities surely worth a second day. Join us on our itinerary for southern Italy, for a dream road trip, from Naples to Taranto.

Tailor-Made Italy: Puglia & the Amalfi Coast

Embark on a memorable journey to southern Italy to enjoy its outstanding flavours, sights, and experiences – from the ancient towns of Puglia to the gleaming Amalfi.

from $14,995 /10 days

road trip to southern italy

Capri | Photo: Bilal EL-Daou

Best time to visit Southern Italy

When planning a South Italy itinerary, bear in mind that there will be some climate variation caused by the nation’s long, narrow shape. While you’re right in thinking that Italy benefits from generally warm weather year-round thanks to its Mediterranean surroundings, it’s also true that some seasons are better than others, particularly if trying to avoid the crowds and hottest temperatures.

In summer, much of Italy comes hot and dry, while, in winter, it’s mild and wet. Spring and fall tend to fall in between the two, making for some incredible (and affordable) off-season breaks. As you go south, luckily the weather gets warmer, with possible exceptions atop the snowy peaks of the Apennine Mountains that runs south from the centre of the country. Stay low however and you’re likely to stay warm and dry, especially so on the islands of Sardinia and Sicily which see average August temperatures of around 30°C (though this number is often exceeded). Given these numbers, summer on the south coast is sure to be crowded, particularly in August when Europeans take to the beaches for their summer holidays. A good way around this would be to travel early in the season (May-June) before crowds and costs rise exponentially.

To reduce your Italy trip cost, base yourself in lesser cities and consider travelling in spring and fall when the weather still allows for beach days, accommodation is cheaper and crowds are fewer.

road trip to southern italy

Photo: Marvin Meyer

road trip to southern italy

Sorrento | Photo: Tom Podmore

Southern Italy itinerary

When life gives you Amalfi lemons, surely you should sip lemonade on the coast. Likewise, when life gives you Capri tomatoes, why not chow down on a Capri pizza overlooking the Tyrrhenian? The beauty of touring Southern Italy is that you need not choose; instead see it all, travelling through the best Southern Italian cities, towns and rural parts in between, savouring all the joys of the south, wine, cheese and pasta included. As well as foodie wonders, the southern half of the country is packed with arts, architecture, history and nature, all starting in Naples, the regional capital. At a bare minimum, we recommend taking 3 days in Naples , branching out with added time to explore the region surrounding (including historic towns such as Pompeii) before heading down the Amalfi Coast , with an optional jaunt on the island of Capri, before ending in Puglia, in Italy’s heel. Read on for a breakdown of what to do and see in each destination.

road trip to southern italy

Photo: Daniele Colucci

A bustling South Italy city set on the Mediterranean Coast with Mount Vesuvius in the background, there are certainly less beautiful cities than Naples . Aesthetically appealing it may be with a trendy lot of locals to populate, Naples also happens to be the birthplace of Italian pizza and host site of the famed catacombs that run under the city. Above ground, Naples’ castles, main squares and royal palaces give a glimpse of the wealthy city of old, alongside ancient ruins painted with some of Christianity’s oldest frescoes. Find this and more on your first two days roaming the city, historians spending time at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale (for Pompeiian frescoes and mosaics) and art lovers at the Pio Monte della Misericordia, Palazzo Zevallos Stigliano and Museo di Capodimonte (for Caravaggio masterpieces). The museums’ baroque architecture could be enough to keep you amused the whole day, but so too can the eerie skulls of Cimitero delle Fontanelle.

For dinner, Naples is bound to please, offering some of Italy’s best pizza, pasta and espresso, all of which can be found across the city’s wonderful street markets and celebrated restaurants. Try the spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with garlic clams), simple ragù (meat in tomato sauce) or parmigiana di melanzane (baked eggplant layered with cheese and tomato sauce) for a taste of the local specialties.

road trip to southern italy

Naples | Photo: Victor Malyushev

road trip to southern italy

Photo: Kenzie Kraft

2. Pompeii & Mt Vesuvius

After three or so days in Naples, a day trip to Pompeii is surely brewing, allowing you to discover first-hand the damage Mount Vesuvius wreaked on this ancient town, a place now frozen in time by lava. A Pompeii day trip is easy to achieve from either Sorrento or Naples, taking just 30 minutes by car (and only slightly longer by train) from both cities.

Book in advance and leave base early to avoid the crowds at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, its status earned thanks to the town’s complete preservation, buried by Vesuvius’ eruptions in 79AD and rediscovered in the mid-18 th century. Today, millions of visitors flock here each year to walk through the once-buried roads, homes and buildings, eerily hosted by the mummified remains of past residents. If you don’t have the whole day, save at least 3 to 4 hours to roam the site, prioritising key builds such as the Foro, Teatro Grande, Terme Stabiane and Casa del Fauno. Lesser-known archaeological sites to consider include Boscoreale, Herculaneum (Ercolano), Oplontis and Stabia, which – though smaller – are just as worthy for their ruins perfectly preserved for centuries under volcanic ash.

road trip to southern italy

Pompeii | Photo: Canmandawe

road trip to southern italy

Pompeii | Photo: Photo Mahdiye

3. Amalfi Coast

With some historic ruins under our travel belts, it’s time to zoom along the Amalfi Coast , possibly cruising to the island of Capri and coming to rest in Amalfi town. The drive from Naples to Amalfi Coast (arriving at Amalfi Town) is 70 kilometres (1 hour 25 minutes by car) and you won’t begrudge even a second as you trace the glittering Tyrrhenian coastline, hugging the cliffside to pass secluded bays, cliffside villages and colourful towns redolent of a bygone Italy. The sheer and winding roads may have you gripping the steering wheel in terror but luckily there are plenty of picturesque places to rest along the way, including the villages of Praiano, Ravello and Positano, all oozing old-world sophistication and panoramic sea views. Instead of arriving too early in Amalfi, stop at Praiano’s San Gennaro Church, chill at Villa Rufolo gardens in Ravello and bathe with beauties on Positano’s Spiaggia Grande (Large Beach), saving an afternoon to walk one or two of Italy’s best hiking trails, one of the more affordable activities in the region.

road trip to southern italy

Amalfi | Photo: Tom Podmore

The drive from Naples to Amalfi is 70 kilometres and you won’t begrudge even a second as you trace the glittering Tyrrhenian coastline, hugging the cliffside to pass secluded bays, cliffside villages and colourful towns redolent of a bygone Italy

Take your time on the road, optionally returning to Sorrento, the gateway town to Amalfi Coast beaches, in order to allow yourself a rest day of museums and shopping among lively piazzas. Remember that your final destination town of Amalfi is on the small side, walkable in about 20 minutes, due to a landslide that saw most of the town slip into the ocean after an earthquake back in 1343. What’s left of Amalfi retains cultural and historic weight, by way of its vast Byzantine-influenced cathedral and quaint Paper Museum, serving a modest population of around 5,000. With time, enjoy a meal at a rustic Amalfi restaurant (comparing the Amalfi pizza to its Neapolitan rival), also checking out the view from around the headlands in the neighbouring village of Atrani.

For longer road trips, you might also go from Rome to Amalfi Coast via the inland E45 route, passing through Naples on the way. From there, you can even take the car on a ferry from Naples to Capri (or drive around the bay for a jaunt in Pompeii before catching the ferry from Sorrento to Capri). Of the top things to do once you arrive in Capri, getting the chairlift up Mount Solaro and dining at a traditional Capri restaurant in the Piazzetta (main square) are both absolute musts.

road trip to southern italy

Positano | Photo: Jakob Owens

road trip to southern italy

Positano | Photo: Sander Crombach

Getting out of those salty headwinds means moving east inland to Matera, a journey of around 250 kilometres (approximately 3 hours by car). The jewel of the Basilicata region, Matera is one of the world’s longest continuously inhabited settlements, featuring a Palaeolithic cave network once lived in some 7,000 years ago and built upon with elaborate structures. Today, visitors to Matera can still look across the gorge to see these cave dwellings (known as the Sassi di Matera), staying on one of two sections of Old Matera – Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. On a ridge between the two, sits the town’s duomo (Maria Santissima della Bruna Cathedral); a focal point, recently restored and its walls hung with heritage artworks.

Wander the sloping alleys enjoying the ancient architecture of the town, joining a local tour to better understand the local culture both past and present. Otherwise, go your own way with a visit to the ancient Casa Noha mansion followed by the Museum of Peasant Civilization (both good for general information on the city’s past).

road trip to southern italy

Matera | Photo: Victor Malyushev

road trip to southern italy

Matera | Photo: Sterlinglanier Lanier

5. Bari, Puglia

After a day and night in Matera, it’s on to Bari in the Puglia region, around 110 kilometres away (1 hour 30 minutes by car). Another cathedral (San Sabino) awaits your inspection, this time demonstrating one of Southern Italy’s most important examples of Romanic style, with archaeological remains running underground. Other sites in town include the Aqueduct Building, Petruzzelli Theatre and Norman Castle, with all roads leading to the waterfront and Old Port for a rewarding afternoon stroll. The beaches in the area are also worth a gander, including Lido San Francesco, Lido Sun Beach, and Pane e Pomodoro Beach.

Though Bari is full of heritage and musty archaeology (including the bones of St Nicholas himself at the Basilica di San Nicola), you’ll be pleasantly surprised by its urban nightlife, centred on the town’s grand boulevards and enlivened by its university community. Many visitors will skip Bari on their way to Lecce, Puglia’s more famous big-hitter, but we’d argue to stick around in this bustling port town for at least the night.

road trip to southern italy

Photo: Massimo Virgilio

road trip to southern italy

Puglia | Photo: Eleonora Altomare

6. Explore further Puglia

We’re not done with Puglia yet on our South Italy tour, however, as we still have the whole of Italy’s heel to explore, where myriad fishing villages and heritage towns gather, edged by sandy beaches of both the Adriatic and Ionian Sea.

When weighing up where to go in the region besides the cities of Bari and Lecce, consider a heritage stay in one of Alberobello’s cone-shaped Trulli houses (1 hour by car from Bari), exploring the shops and churches of the UNESCO-listed town by day before moving on to Polignano a Mare (30 minutes towards the coast from Alberobello), a popular resort among locals and tourists for its crystal waters and scenic location.

Last on our Southern Italy Itinerary is another Puglia gem, the city of Taranto, accessible by car in one hour from Bari. Fortified in the 15 th century to protect this coastal city from invasion, though founded as a Greek colony way back in 706 BC Taranto has much medieval and ancient heritage to offer, most notably its Aragonese Castle (otherwise known as Sant’Angelo Castle) and the nearby iron bridge that connects the Greek-Spartan Old Town (once known as Taras) with the commercial New Town across the Mar Piccolo lagoon. For more historical insights from the Magna Grecia territory and the cultural heritage of Southern Italian people, you can head inside the National Archaeological Museum.

Before returning home via Salento Airport (1 hour from Taranto), end your vacation on a high with a 5-hour dolphin cruise, learning about local biodiversity and marine life from the experts at the Jonian Dolphin Conservation Centre.

road trip to southern italy

Alberobello | Photo: Kirsten Velghe

Want to simplify luxury travel planning?

Whether you want a resort vacation, wildlife safari, city break, luxury cruise, wellness retreat, honeymoon, once-in-a-lifetime adventure or weekend escape, the trip curation experts at Mr Hudson make travel planning a breeze. Find out how we can handle the finer details of vacationing in style.

road trip to southern italy

Positano | Photo: Sebastian Leonhardt

road trip to southern italy

Photo: Vincenzo De Simone

road trip to southern italy

Puglia | Photo: Erika Rigoni

road trip to southern italy

Procida, Naples | Photo: Bea

road trip to southern italy

Photo: Humphrey Muleba

road trip to southern italy

Matera | Photo: Steffen Lemmerzahl

road trip to southern italy

Taranto | Photo: Francesco Nigro

road trip to southern italy

Puglia | Photo: Lucia Gherra

Positano Italy

Photo: Jakob Owens

road trip to southern italy

Capri | Photo: Andy Holmes

road trip to southern italy

Photo: Giuseppe Patriarchi

road trip to southern italy

Amalfi | Photo: Alessio Bachetti

road trip to southern italy

Amalfi Coast | Photo: Viktor Ritsvall

road trip to southern italy

Naples | Photo: Sergio Otoya

road trip to southern italy

Photo: Felipe Giacometti

road trip to southern italy

Pompeii Archaeological Park, Pompei | Photo: Andy Holmes

Did you enjoy this article? Then sign up for our newsletter

Did you enjoy this article the same team that curates our content designs your perfect trip, explore more.

Baltimore

Things to do in Baltimore

Charm City might have gotten a bad rap in the past, but the city is once again booming, and the over 200 micro neighbourhoods are transforming more and more into their own, individually unique and all full of prideful residents.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Peru

Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu lies on a mountain ridge in Peru at 2,430m (7,970ft) altitude, and you can reach it via train from Cusco. Or, you can tread in the footsteps of the Incas and get there via one of the most famous treks in the world.

road trip to southern italy

Iceland road trip: The ultimate Iceland self-drive itinerary

With its abundance of natural phenomena, picturesque surroundings, ever-changing scenery, and just as many lovely goats and sheep as wonderful people, Iceland really is a must-visit destination. Drive the famous Ring Road, and you’ll bump into most of Iceland’s best-known attractions.

Subscribe to our newsletter

You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing.

Sign up for exclusive insider promotions

World Wanderista

Magic happens when the adventure begins

Italy , Puglia , Travel Guide · February 27, 2023

The ultimate Puglia road trip itinerary; exploring Southern Italy

A Puglia road trip is a must-do adventure for any traveler who dreams of exploring Southern Italy. This region, located in the heel of Italy’s boot, boasts some of the most picturesque landscapes, quaint towns, and stunning beaches you’ll ever encounter. From the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea to the rugged countryside dotted with olive groves and vineyards, Puglia is a feast for the senses. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, this region has it all.

In this Puglia itinerary I will share all the best places you must visit , where you should stay, eat and drink, along with my personal tips and tricks. This travel guide is for those who like to see and do a lot at a relaxed pace with enough time to take photos and to absorb the local atmosphere. After all, Italy is no country to rush through.

So are you ready to embark on a journey through Italy’s stunning Puglia region? Pack your bags, rent a car, and let’s discover the magic of Puglia together!

Puglia road trip itinerary

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).

Puglia road trip itinerary; exploring Southern Italy

It was my first time exploring this region of Italy and I had organised it quite fast. So I did not plan on visiting the whole Puglia region, as it is quite big. This Puglia road trip itinerary mainly covers the Valle d’Itria and Monopoli region and an extra trip to Matera , situated in Basilicata, its neighboring province. However, I added some side notes of several more beautiful places in Puglia that you can add, depending on the length of your stay and interests. It is a great itinerary for first time visitors! If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments down below!

Where is Puglia and how can you get there

Puglia, also known as Apulia, is a region located in Southern Italy, forming the heel of the Italian peninsula. It is bordered by the Adriatic Sea to the east, the Ionian Sea to the southeast, and the Gulf of Taranto to the south. Puglia shares borders with the regions of Molise to the north, Campania to the west, and Basilicata to the southwest. The capital city of the region is Bari.

There are two international airports ; the Karol Wojtyla Airport in Bari and the Airport of Salento in Brindisi. Both airports offer direct flights from major cities in Italy and Europe. Puglia is well-connected to the Italian rail network , with regular high-speed trains running from major cities such as Rome, Florence, and Milan to Bari, Brindisi, and Lecce.

Driving to Puglia is also an option, with the region easily accessible from the A14 highway that runs along the Adriatic coast. If you’re coming from Rome or Naples, you can take the A16 highway that connects to the A14.

Porto Antico Monopoli

The best time to go on a Puglia road trip

Puglia is a region that can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to go depends on your travel preferences. The summer months of June to August are the peak season in Puglia, with warm temperatures, long sunny days, and vibrant beach scenes. This is the perfect time for sun worshippers and beach bums who want to soak up the sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. However, the high season also means crowds and higher prices, so it’s best to book in advance.

If you prefer cooler temperatures and smaller crowds, the shoulder season of April to May and September to October is a great time to visit. The weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy the region’s attractions without the throngs of tourists.

I visited the second half of September and some towns were still pretty crowded during the day. Which is why I always prefer to explore early in the morning. But it wasn’t the same amount of people like the Amalfi Coast or Rome. The ambiance was still pleasant and the weather still nice.

How to travel around

Renting a car is the most popular way to explore Puglia, as it gives you the flexibility to visit remote areas and smaller towns. However, driving in Puglia can be challenging, especially in crowded city centers or on narrow country roads. There are a few things you need to take into account, but more on that later!

You can also catch the  state trains (Trenitalia) or the  Ferrovie Sud Est  (FSE) from a couple of towns, but often you’ll need to transfer, and it will take a lot of time. The small towns often do not have a train station. Also, the  bus  can be an option, but again you will need to transfer, and it will take way more time than by car.

Taxis do barely exist in Puglia. If you do not want to rent a car you could opt for  N.C.C.  ( Noleggio con conducente ). Which is a more expensive transfer service with driver you need to reserve in advance. I recommend this  Taxi Service  located in Ostuni. The drivers and girl who arranges everything were super nice and helpful! You can  reserve online .

Ostuni

Need to know & tools to plan your Puglia itinerary

In Italy, parking spaces are color coded: white spaces are free, blue spaces are paid, yellow spaces are for residents of the area with special parking permit, handicapped permits, taxis, or official vehicles, and pink spaces are for expectant mothers or mothers traveling with infants. But always keep your eyes open for exceptions!

Cars without a permit are frequently prohibited in historic city centers. Make sure to check if the area you’re visiting has a ZTL ( Zona Traffico Limitato ), and if so, make sure to avoid it or risk getting a hefty fine.

Italians are known for taking speed limits and traffic rules lightly. And for any Italian reading and denying this; I am not saying ALL Italians are doing this, BUT I have driven with many Italians and none of them were, let’s say, calm drivers. So when driving in Italy don’t feel rushed by them and do respect the traffic rules , because guess who will get fined?

Most highways in Italy are toll roads . Meaning you have to pay to drive here. You can pay cash or by credit card.

The south of Italy is way poorer than the north. Puglia has one of the highest unemployment rates in Italy, with a significant portion of the population unable to find work. Its infrastructure is relatively weak compared to other regions in Italy, with poor road and rail connections and limited public transportation options. Puglia’s economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, which is vulnerable to climate change, disease, like the current Xylella fastidiosa  bacterium, and other external factors that can impact crop yields and production levels.

In this Puglia road trip guide I chose to stay in different hotels/B&Bs along the way. But you can also opt to stay in one place and visit all the places from there. The reason I stayed in different places is because I like to explore early in the morning and that way I avoided to have to wake up extra early and drive first. If you prefer to stay in one place, I would recommend Monopoli.

Read more about Puglia in Lonely Planet’s South Italy guide .

Lama Monachile - Polignano a Mare

The ultimate Puglia road trip itinerary

Day 1 – arrival at brindisi airport, pick up car & drive to ostuni.

I took a flight from Brussels to Brindisi, but you can also fly into Bari to start this adventure. Pick up your car at the airport and drive to Ostuni, your first stop of this Puglia road trip! I arrived in the evening while the sun was setting. When I was approaching the town, which is nestled on a hill, I saw the pink and golden light of the sun reflecting on the white city walls. It was simply magical!

After arriving at your hotel/B&B in Ostuni you can go for a first stroll around the town and go for dinner. I found a cute restaurant called L’Arco Dei Sapori where they served a very good melanzane alla parmigian a.

Driving time: Brindisi airport to Ostuni: 30 minutes / Bari to Ostuni: 1 hour 5 minutes Kilometers to drive: Brindisi airport to Ostuni: 37 km / Bari to Ostuni: 99 km Parking in Ostuni: Via Giosuè Pinto  /  Via Antonio Specchia . Where did I stay: Vico Bianco Raro Rooms Collection

Day 2 – Explore Ostuni, la Città Bianca

Ostuni is a beautiful town perched on top of a hill overlooking eternal olive groves and a sparkling Adriatic Sea. It is known as La Città Bianca (The White City), thanks to its whitewashed houses and surrounding city walls. Ostuni kept its authentic medieval charm and is the perfect place for true wanderers. So start your day roaming the town’s winding streets. Things you must not miss while exploring Ostuni :

  • Cattedrale Santa Maria Assunta & Arco Scoppa
  • The colorful doors of Ostuni
  • A walk along Ostuni’s city walls
  • Aperitivo at Borgo Antico Bistrot or Avenida 40 Cafè
  • The view from Piazzetta Martiri delle Foibe
  • Have a puccia for lunch, which is a typical regional sandwich that can have all kinds of fillings like cheese, vegetables, ham, salami,…

After lunch you can either choose to stay longer in Ostuni or already leave and continue your Puglia itinerary to Cisternino . Which is also known for its picturesque streets and quaint stone houses. Park your car and start to wander through the narrow alleys. You’ll be transported back in time to a simpler and slower way of life. The town’s focal point is its beautiful main square, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele. Here locals gather to enjoy a coffee or gelato and soak up the sun.

Then drive to your next stay in Locorotondo and have dinner at Ai Tre Santi in Locorotondo. The town has a nice vibe in the evening.

Driving time: Ostuni – Cisternino – Locorotondo: 32 minutes Kilometers to drive: 23 km Parking in Locorotondo: Piazza Antonio Mitrano / Via S Pantaleo Where did I stay: Marinella Suite Home (currently closed but there are plenty of options to stay in Locorotondo )

city walls Ostuni

Day 3 – Locorotondo, the “Round Place” & Martina Franca

Wake up early to continue your Puglia explorations in one of the most beautiful towns of the Valle d’Itria! Its name Locorotondo, which translates to “Round Place,” refers to the circular shape of the town.

The streets are narrow and winding, with white cobblestones and stone paving. As you stroll through the town in the morning, you’ll see locals going about their daily business, chatting with neighbors and friends. While wandering through the narrow alleys I encountered  nonnas  hanging their laundry or cleaning their house. Most façades and terraces are decorated with cacti, plants and flowers.

Locorotondo is a clean and well maintained town! The scents of fresh laundry and fragrant aromas of local cuisine kept seducing my nose. The terraces of cafes and restaurants are filled with people soaking up the sun and enjoying their meals and drinks. Things to do in Locorotondo :

  • Get lost in the Centro Storico
  • Eat the best pizza of the region at Pizzeria Casa Pinto
  • Enjoy an aperitivo with the best view at the southside of the Via Nardelli 
  • Walk through the olive groves
  • Visit the many churches

After lunch you can opt to drive to Martina Franca (6 km – 8 min drive). This is the highest town in the Murgia area of Puglia with alleys lined with whitewashed houses, beautiful piazzas and exquisite churches and palaces in a particular type of style called Barocco Martuinese. It is rather big with a population of 49.000! Top attractions in Martina Franca:

  • Lama: the old town center
  • Palazzo Ducale
  • The many beautiful squares
  • Porta di Santo Stefano
  • Basilica Cattedrale di San Martino & Church of Saint Dominic
  • Piazza Plebiscito

If you would like to learn more about the history and architecture I recommend this Baroque & Rococo walking tour .

You can also choose for a lazy afternoon and drive to the next hotel in Alberobello. I stayed at a nice hotel with pool, so I could relax and enjoy the sun!

Go for dinner at Il Pinnacolo in Alberobello, but make sure to make a reservation in advance! It has a terrace with a nice view on the trulli rooftops and serves classic dishes from the Itria Valley.

Driving time: Locorotondo – Alberobello: 10 minutes Kilometers to drive: 9 km Parking in Alberobello: Parking “Nel Verde” / Via Indipendenza   Where did I stay: Il Gabellota Resort

Locorotondo

Day 4 – Alberobello, the “Trulli Capital” of Puglia

Rise and shine! Today it is time to wake up really early to beat the crowds, as you are going to visit one of the most popular places in Puglia! Alberobello gets busy from 9.00 am, so if you want to take some decent photos without the crowds, you’ll have to explore before that time! After you took your photos, have breakfast with the locals at one of the bars.

There are two districts with trulli within Alberobello. Rione Monti is the biggest one with about 1000 trulli spread over 10 streets, and Rione Aia Piccola is a smaller, more authentic area consisting of about 400 trulli. After breakfast everything will start top open, so it’s time to start exploring the little bars and cute shops selling mostly souvenirs like ceramics, pottery, magnets, pasta, olive oil, art, handmade textiles, … Don’t forget to enjoy the view at Belvedere Santa Lucia and the many other fun things to do in Alberobello .

Depending on what time you are done exploring, you can have lunch either at Alberobello (again at Il Pinnacolo or go for a focaccia or local pucce at Largo Martellotta) or at Monopoli , the next stop of this Puglia road trip! If you are having lunch at Monopoli I suggest to do it by the seaside ( CarloQuinto or MiCasa ). Since it was an early morning I think it would be great to relax a little in the afternoon, so go to the beach ( Porto Rosso ) or enjoy the pool at the hotel!

In the evening there are plenty of options to have dinner at Monopoli! A few of my suggestions :

  • Ristorante Porto Rosso
  • La Locanda dei Pescatori

Driving time: Alberobello – Monopoli: 25 minutes Kilometers to drive: 21 km Parking in Monopoli: Via Procaccia / Ink Café / Parcheggio Procaccia Where did I stay:   Playa del Mar

Alberobello rooftoops

Day 5 – Monopoli, the charming coastal town

This Puglia road trip itinerary continues with a day in Monopoli, a charming coastal town with whitewashed houses with green window shutters surrounded by old citywalls and bastions, protecting the town from the sea. Monopoli managed to keep its  genuine, lived-in ambience , unlike its more popular neighboring towns. I absolutely loved this town. The locals who were extremely friendly and I had so much interaction with them. The streets are extremely inviting to keep exploring. Surprises are waiting to be discovered behind every corner. It’s also a real challenge to find all 20 churches in the historic center. There are plenty of fabulous things to do   in Monopoli !

  • Explore centro storico
  • Wander along the lungomare
  • Visit the cathedral
  • Find all 20 churches
  • Porto Antico

Driving time: / Kilometers to drive:/ Parking in Monopoli: Via Procaccia / Ink Café / Parcheggio Procaccia Where did I stay: Playa del Mar

Monopoli

Day 6 – Polignano a Mare, the “Cliff-Top Jewel”

After breakfast, (which is excellent by the way at Playa del Mar!) it is time to drive to Polignano a Mare. This picturesque beach town is perched atop a 20-meter-high limestone cliff, looking out over the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. It is well known for its breathtaking coastline, which is lined with lovely beaches and towering cliffs that plunge into the clear waters below. The town is filled with charming, winding alleys that will take you to charming piazzas, ancient churches, and tastefully adorned homes as you explore it. My favorite things to do in Polignano a Mare were:

  • Wandering around the historic town
  • Belvedere su Lama Monachile
  • Grotta dell’Arcivescovado
  • Punto Panoramico Largo Ardito
  • Lama Monachile beach

Recommendation for lunch: Bella ‘Mbriana / dinner: L’Archibugio

If you do not want to spend the whole day at Polignano a Mare, you could drive to a few more places places in the neighborhood:

  • Conversano (12 min / 10 km):  an ancient town with a castle overlooking the city
  • San Vito (11 min / 4 km): a small coastal town with a little harbor and an ancient tower
  • Grotte di Castellana (22 min / 17 km): Karst cave network

Driving time: Monopoli – Polignano a Mare: 13 minutes Kilometers to drive: 8.5 km Parking in Polignano a Mare : San Francesco / Train station Where did I stay:   Finisterre Casa di Mare

Polignano a Mare

Day 7 & 8 – The final stop of this Puglia road trip; Matera

First have breakfast at the Piazza San Benedetto. I found a cute place there that serves excellent pancakes called San Bé . Then you will get back in the car and continue your Puglia journey to Matera . Which is one of the dreamiest cities in the world, located in the Basilicata region, near the border of Puglia. Matera is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and has a very interesting history. I am not going to explain it thoroughly in this Puglia itinerary, but you can read all about it in my detailed Matera travel guide .

Keep in mind that you are not allowed to drive in the historical center (ZTL zone). Park your car in the nearest parking lot to your hotel/B&B or where the shuttle bus passes. The owner of my guesthouse advised Parking Via Saragat . You will probably still need to walk some stairs with your suitcases, so make sure to research well in advance where your hotel/B&B is located and which shuttle stop you will need to take!

Once you dropped your luggage you can start exploring the “Sassi”, meaning “the Stones”. Which is the old part of the town. It is divided in two separate districts. The  Sasso Barisano  is located in a bowl-shaped area within the old part of town. The  Sasso Caveoso  is situated on the mountainside descending from the Duomo towards the Gravina. In the Sassi you will find all the rock-cut cave houses, historical landmarks and narrow streets to get lost in!

Matera has a lot to discover which is why I definitely recommend to stay 2 or 3 nights here, depending on your interests and tempo. These are some Matera highlights :

  • Visit a cave house
  • Belvedere Piazza Pascoli
  • Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio detto dei “Tre Archi”
  • Belvedere San Pietro Barisano
  • Convento di Sant’Agostino
  • Santa Maria de Idris and the Church of Santa Lucia alle Malve
  • Piazza Vittorio Veneto
  • Palombaro Lungo
  • Parco della Murgia Materana

Recommendations for lunch and dinner can also be found in my Matera travel guide!

Driving time: 1 hour 15 minutes Kilometers to drive: 100 km Parking in Matera: Parking Via Saragat / More parking info Where did I stay:   Le LUMINARIe Sassi  

Matera

Day 9 – Matera to Bari

Depending on your flight hours and interests, you can still explore Matera or drive to Bari and continue your explorations there. As the capital of the Puglia region, Bari has been a significant port city since ancient times, connecting Italy with the Mediterranean world. The city’s historic center, known as Bari Vecchia, is a maze of winding streets and alleys lined with ancient churches and buildings, including the iconic Basilica of San Nicola, which houses the remains of Saint Nicholas.

Bari is also famous for its delicious food, such as orecchiette pasta and fresh seafood dishes. So don’t forget to give the Via delle Orecchiette a visit, where you find several women making this fresh pasta in the street!

Driving time: 45 minutes Kilometers to drive: 63 km Parking in Bari: Via Ruggiero

Pin this Puglia itinerary for later

Puglia road trip itinerary

So that is it! I hope you enjoyed this Puglia road trip itinerary and that it will help to plan your own trip! I really tried to cover everything you need to know. Do not hesitate to leave your comments or questions down below! That way I can add more information if necessary! If you want to help me a little, please share this post on Facebook, Twitter or any kind of social media. A small thing for you to do that can make a big difference for me! Massive thanks! If you like the pictures in this article, I suggest following  my Instagram account  where you can find a lot more.

Share this:

road trip to southern italy

  • Share on Tumblr

You’ll Also Love

stay in a cave in Matera

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

road trip to southern italy

One day in Polignano a Mare, Italy; best things to do on a day trip

road trip to southern italy

Newsletter & Free Travel Essentials

Email address:

WORLD WANDERISTA  

ABOUT PRIVACY POLICY COOKIE POLICY (EU) DISCLOSURE POLICY TERMS & CONDITIONS  

Copyright © 2024 World Wanderista · Theme by 17th Avenue

road trip to southern italy

6 beautiful road trips in Italy: drive the country's best routes

Duncan Garwood

Nov 16, 2023 • 7 min read

road trip to southern italy

Explore the best of Italy with these scenic road trips © Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

The drive along Italy 's Amalfi Coast, preferably in a vintage Alfa Romeo Spider, is the stuff of travel legend.

And it's just one of dozens of epic road trip routes in this fascinating, richly layered country. Don't be put off by stories of impatient local drivers – the countryside here was made for exploring by road (and stopping every few hundred yards to take another photo).

With an extensive network of well-maintained roads that weave between snow-capped peaks, trace plunging coastlines, and meander through rolling farmland and vineyards to scenic lakes and historic towns, pretty much every journey in Italy is a scenic odyssey, but some road trips stand out as being particularly memorable.

To set the scene, we've chosen six classic road trips ranging from gentle Tuscan jaunts to hair-raising mountain adventures. Some are a little challenging, but they all make for unforgettable experiences! Here are the best road trip routes in Italy.

Positano is a cliffside village on southern Italy's Amalfi Coast. It's a well-known holiday destination with a pebble beachfront and steep, narrow streets lined with boutiques and cafes.

1. The Amalfi Coast

Best classic Italian coastal road trip Salerno–Sorrento; approx 75km/46 miles, 1 day

Experience Italy's most spectacular coastal scenery on this white-knuckle drive along the Amalfi Coast . From Salerno , the main southern gateway to the coast, strike west to Vietri sul Mare , a small town famous for its ceramics and the start point of the coastal road proper. From here, the driving becomes more challenging as the road narrows, the curves become tighter, and the views become ever more dramatic.

After about 20km (12 miles), you'll arrive in Amalfi , the coast's main hub. Stop here to look around the landmark Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea and then head up to Ravello in the hills above. Pause for lunch here, perhaps at the Ristorante Pizzeria Vittoria , and enjoy heady panoramas from the town's lush gardens.

Next, push on to Positano , a chic, near-vertical town where colorful, steeply-stacked houses cascade down the precipitous hillsides. Beyond Positano, the route leads inland, up and across the hilly interior to Sorrento , a lively tourist hot spot overlooked by the dark, brooding bulk of Mount Vesuvius.

Planning tip:  It's a popular drive, so try to come out of season to avoid the traffic. With another day to spare, you can continue north to Naples via the ruins of Pompeii .

A male and female couple ride on the back of a motorbike through the Tuscan countryside as the sun sets

2. The Tuscan tour

Best road trip for art and architecture  Florence–Orvieto; approx 210km/130 miles , 2–3 days

Taking in two of Italy's great medieval cities, the wine treasures of Chianti  and swathes of classic Tuscan scenery, this two-day route leads from Florence to Orvieto in the neighboring region of Umbria . Whet your appetite for the road ahead by feasting on fine art and Renaissance architecture in Florence before striking south to Chianti wine country.

Stop for a tasting at the Enoteca Falorni in Greve and to sample the region's celebrated bistecca (steak) at L'Antica Macelleria Cecchini in Panzano. From here, follow the backroads to Siena , a stunning medieval city centered on an awe-inspiring Duomo and a 12th-century square, the famous Piazza del Campo . Recommended overnight options here include the Pensione Palazzo Ravizza .

In the morning, head to Montalcino to stock up on Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy's most revered red wines. A short drive to the east, the Val d'Orcia provides quintessential Tuscan landscapes with its billowing green hills, cypress trees and hilltop towns. Lunch in Pienza, then continue through Montepulciano to Orvieto, a striking hilltop town famous for its remarkable Gothic Duomo .

Planning tip:  While you could easily do this route in two days, consider adding an extra overnight stop to explore the region in more depth.

Calamosche; Vendicari; Coastline; Fun; Nature; Noto; Noto - Sicily; Relaxation; Day; Europe; Horizontal; Outdoors; People; Photography; Sand; Sea; Sicily

3. Southeastern Sicily 

Best road trip for exploring Sicily's charming towns Catania–Ragusa; approx 165km/103 miles , 2 days

Hunt UNESCO-listed baroque treasures on this two-day tour of Sicily 's rugged southeast. Start by investigating Catania's grandiose historic center and brilliant fish market. After a seafood lunch, hit the road and make for Syracuse where you can trawl through ancient Greco-Roman ruins at the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis and stroll elegant baroque streets in the Ortygia district. Overnight at the stylish Hotel Gutkowski .

On day two, continue to Noto , home to what is arguably Sicily's most beautiful street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, which is dotted with churches and charming cafes. Once you've digested this masterpiece of urban design, turn inland to Modica , a bustling town wedged into a deep canyon. Stock up on the town's famous chocolates before pushing on through the rocky hinterland to Ragusa and the handsome historic center known as Ragusa Ibla.

Planning tip:  To round the trip off on a high note, book ahead and treat yourself to dinner at the Ristorante Duomo , one of Sicily's top restaurants with meals prepared by chef Ciccio Sultano.

A view over La Villa, a settlement in a green valley with a mountainous Dolomites backdrop.

4. The Great Dolomites Road

Best road trip for stunning mountain vistas Bolzano–Cortina d'Ampezzo; approx 125km/78 miles; 2 days

The Grande Strada della Dolomiti provides some of Italy's most exhilarating driving. Running from Bolzano to Cortina d'Ampezzo, it boasts superb scenery as it snakes past craggy, saw-tooth peaks and over lofty mountain passes in the Dolomites.

From Bolzano , head eastwards toward Ponte Nova, where you'll get your first sight of the Dolomite's mighty granite peaks. Continue to Val di Fassa, a magnificent valley framed by forested slopes and gigantic rock summits, and up to the 2,239m (7,345 ft) Passo Pordoi. The descent from here is slow going, but you'll be rewarded with stunning views as you corkscrew down to La Villa in the spectacularly sited Val Badia.

From here, you could push directly on to Cortina d'Ampezzo , the chic resort that marks the end of the road, but for a more relaxed trip, stop for the night at the Dolomit B&B and take some scenic detours around La Villa on day two.

Planning tip:  This is serious country for outdoor activities with superb winter skiing and wonderful summer hiking .

Woman admiring sunset over Lake Como and Bellagio old town, Italy

5. The southern shore of Lake Como 

Best springtime road trip Como–Bergamo; approx 112km/70 miles; 1 day

Surrounded by Alpine peaks and wooded hills, Lake Como (Lago di Como) is the most picturesque of Italy's northern lakes. This leisurely one-day drive takes in elegant art nouveau villas and lush waterfront gardens along the lake's southern shoreline.

The obvious starting point is the town of Como itself. Once you've explored the charming historic center and the nearby Villa Olmo , take the swooping road up to Bellagio . Stop at this charming lakeside village to explore the grounds of neoclassical Villa Melzi d'Eril and have lunch at Terrazza Barchetta .

Suitably refreshed, leave your car and jump on a ferry to Tremezzo, home of the 17th-century Villa Carlotta and its spectacular gardens. Back in Bellagio, pick up your wheels and strike southeast, following the scenic lakeside road down to Lecco and on to historic Bergamo , where you can rest up in style at the Hotel Piazza Vecchia .

Planning tip: Time your visit for April and May when the area is awash with spring color.

6. Highlights of Abruzzo

Best road trip for unspoiled landscapes Rome–Sulmona; approx 240km/150 miles, one day

Just over an hour's drive east of Rome , the little-known region of Abruzzo is a world apart from the big city, with wild, empty valleys and unspoiled mountain landscapes. From the capital take the A24 autostrada to Fonte Cerreto, from where it's a twisting climb up to Campo Imperatore, a highland plain overlooked by the Apennines' highest peak, Corno Grande (2,912m/9,553ft).

Continue on to Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a remote, semi-abandoned village high in the Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga. If you're traveling during the weekend you can lunch at the Locanda Sotto gli Archi ; otherwise, pick up picnic supplies in the village.

In the afternoon, push on to Sulmona, a graceful town set in the shadow of the Morrone massif. Famous for its delicacy confetti (sugar-coated almonds), Sulmona makes a good base for exploring the region's rugged southern reaches, offering good accommodation at the Legacy Casa Residencia and filling food at local restaurants such as Il Vecchio Muro .

Planning tip:  We strongly recommend spending a day or more in Sulmona, exploring the surrounding hills by car or on foot away from the tourist crowds.

This article was first published May 2019 and updated November 2023

Explore related stories

Three friends jumping with happiness next to their car with palm trees in the background

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

After years of hard work, what better way to celebrate than with an amazing adventure? Here are the best places for a graduation trip.

road trip to southern italy

Dec 13, 2023 • 10 min read

Sunrise in Tuscany

Oct 24, 2023 • 7 min read

road trip to southern italy

May 15, 2023 • 16 min read

Bus to London.jpg

Mar 29, 2023 • 4 min read

The Panamerican Highway, Antofagasta, Chile.

Mar 28, 2023 • 6 min read

Driving with red convertible car in the Dolomites mountains during autumn season

Sep 13, 2022 • 13 min read

Tuscany road trip.jpg

Apr 13, 2022 • 7 min read

A woman in sunglasses on a boat approaching Capri

Jan 25, 2022 • 8 min read

Explore the beauty of Sicily with our pick of the best road trips on the island

Nov 18, 2021 • 5 min read

Wanderlust Chloe

The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itineraries: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of lake como and the culture, art and beauty of florence and rome, to the epic views along the amalfi coast and traditional italian towns of puglia, this italy road trip has it all.

Road tripping past vineyards, dramatic coastlines and historic cities sounds like a pretty perfect holiday doesn’t it? When it comes to European holidays, Italy is always one of my top recommendations. I love the views, the buzz, the people. And don’t get me started on the food – I mean, delicious Italian cuisine for brekky, lunch and dinner? That’s enough of a reason to visit in itself! 

Whether you’re interested in art, architecture, history, food or fashion, a trip to Italy will no doubt appeal. Spend leisurely days floating beneath the Rialto Bridge in Venice on a gondola, window shopping in Milan’s boutiques, standing where gladiators once fought in the Roman Colosseum or staying in a traditional Trulli house in Puglia.

Cinque Terre, Italy

And the best part about an Italy road trip? The freedom! You don’t have to stick to the obvious routes. While I’ve created an Italy itinerary on the maps below, I’d encourage veering off course from time to time. That’s when you’ll find the hidden gems, the towns the tourists don’t know about, and no doubt some delicious Italian food too.

It’s also worth remembering that some of the interior parts of the country are as pretty as the coasts, with vineyards, sunflower fields and gorgeous hilltop towns. Going on a road trip means you’re pretty much guaranteed to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy too.

So, rather than create one epic Italian road trip, I’ve divided it into a northern Italy road trip and a southern Italy road trip. That way you can just pick one and break the country up into manageable chunks. Got a while? Join the two up and continue down the coast from Rome to Milan.

Click through to take a look at each itinerary, and figure out which one is right for you…

The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itinerary

From driving along the Amalfi Coast and enjoying traditional pasta in Puglia, to enjoying lake views in northern Italy and the incredible canals of Venice, it's time to plan the ultimate Italy road trip! 

road trip to southern italy

The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of Lake Como, dramatic coastlines of Cinque Terre and the canals of Venice, to the culture, art and beauty of Milan, Florence and Rome, it’s time to plan the ultimate northern Italy road trip!

road trip to southern italy

The Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the vibrant city of Naples and the awe inspiring views of the Amalfi Coast, to the traditional Italian towns of Puglia and Sicily’s beaches, volcanoes and cuisine, it’s time to plan the ultimate southern Italy road trip!

When Is The Best Time To Visit Italy?

Italy has a Mediterranean climate and is a lovely destination to visit all year round.

Temperatures vary by region, but as a quick example, you can expect average temperatures of around 0°C in around Cortina (a ski resort in the mountains) in January, and as high as 37°C in July in cities such as Milan and Venice. Temperatures in the south remain mild in winter, making destinations like Puglia and Sicily great options for a winter holiday.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Italy, I’d suggest planning a trip between April and June, or in September or October, just after the peak summer season.

The weather tends to be consistent in these months, but isn’t too hot. Plus, as you’re missing peak season, you should benefit from lower prices and fewer people.

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list.

I hope you’ve enjoyed checking out my Italy road trip itineraries! Let me know where you decide to go and what your highlights are…

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later… 

Ultimate Italy Road Trips-min

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itineraries: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More”

I am obsessed with Italy! I really want to visit Milan and Lake Como so I think that will be my next trip! xoxo Jess

Hey Jess – that’s a great route to take and super easy! I’ve just got back from Trentino which is also stunning!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Truly Expat Travel Logo

Two Week Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary in 2024

italian flag on balcony

Most people who travel to Italy and want to explore the country by car opt for  Northern Italy , which  has so many fantastic tourist spots to cover, like  Verona ,  Trento   and  Lake Como  (to name a few).

However, if you are anything like me and enjoy exploring hidden gems, then maybe a Southern Italy road trip is the perfect way to see the South of Italy’s best. 

Standing in the middle of pompeii

Table of Contents

Southern Italy Road Trip Tips

There are many great places to visit on your Italian r oad trip , but the trick is limiting it to sites that will give you the most fantastic experience in the time frame you have to vacation in. This southern itinerary travel guide will help you plan an already well-driven route through some of the most beautiful places in Southern Italy. 

Car Hire in Italy

Your road trip would not be complete without first organizing your car hire. Hiring a car from Naples International Airport is simple; I highly recommend Discover Cars , where you can book online, choose the company with the best deal, and it will be ready for you when you land.

Important note:  Many cities are off-limit to parking in the city centre walls to protect the historic towns. It would help if you researched each city before entering; many sites will give you the correct information on parking.

Visa in Italy

Check that you do not require a visa for Italy. The   ivisa   website is a quick and easy way to check whether your passport requires a permit.

Travel insurance in Italy

SafetyWing   is the world’s first International Travel Medical Insurance developed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and remote workers travelling or living abroad worldwide. Perfect for those who will be away for long periods, live and work abroad or are nomad travellers.

Southern Italy Road Trip planner

Book all your  accommodation   online before you arrive, and then link your bookings, tours, reservations and transportation to your tripit   app. The Tripit app is a game-changer and nicely maps your itinerary out before you begin your round trip to Northern Italy. My favourite travelling apps   blog post found other apps that make your Southern Italy itinerary planning more manageable. 

southern italy

Southern Italy Road Trip Route

Day 1:Naples

Day 2: Naples to Pompei

Day 3: Naples to Capri

Day 4: Capri to Amalfi Coast

Day 5: Explore Amalfi Coast

Day 6:Explore Almafi Coast

Day 7: Amalfi Coast to Lamezia Terme

Day 8:Explore Lamezia Terme

Day 9: Lamezia Terme to Reggio Calabria

Day 10:explore Reggio Calabria

Day 11:Reggio Calabria to Messina

Day 12: Messina to Taormina

Day 13:explore Taormina

Day 14:explore Taormina

road trip to southern italy

Road Trip Around Italy For Two Weeks

Southern italy road trip: day 1 naples.

Arriving in Naples is easy; follow the signs to pick up your car, check your tripit app for your address to your accommodation in Naples, and your road trip to Southern Italy begins. 

Things to do in Naples

What better way to kick off your Southern Italy Road trip than a day in grungy Naples? This city might seem dirty from the outside, but it has some southern Italian charm once you start exploring. 

The best way to experience the city of Naples is on the open-top,  hop-on hop-off bus . You can cover ample time during your one-day exploration with two routes on offer. Or explore this ancient city on a private walking tour .   Discover everything from architecture to old historical churches.

Standing tall at Naples Port’s edge, you will find Castel Nuovo (new castle), an impressive medieval Renaissance fortress. The Castel Nuovo is open from Monday to Saturday: 8:30 am to 6 pm and 10 am to 1 pm on Sunday. 

Another fascinating must-see is the Castel dell’Ovo (Egg Castle), which has defended the city, become a prison and was once a royal residence. It is said that poet Virgil hid a magical egg here, and if someone broke the egg, he promised that the city would suffer great catastrophes. Not sure if anyone ever found the egg, but the name stuck! The entry is free, so there is no need to book online. 

Visit Palazzo Reale, where inside, you will find the historic apartment and staircase of honour, amongst other rooms of such beauty. The Royal Palace of Naples was built when Naples was under Spanish rule when the Bourbon Kings ruled the Kingdom of two Sicilies. The  Royal Palace  o pens from 9 am daily, and you can purchase tickets online.

Accommodation

Accommodation in naples.

Splurge –  Renaissance Naples Hotel Mediterraneo – The Marriott franchise can not go wrong; they are always in the best locations and offer the same service worldwide. The Renaissance Naples Hotel Mediterraneo is no different. The best part about this hotel is the daily breakfast on the roof with views over Naples Port. 

Budget –  Una Notte al Museo – It shows you don’t have to pay a lot in Naples to get a great place to sleep. The pensione is only 3 minutes from significant museums and 5 minutes from the city centre. Moreover, parking is available, which is essential if you plan to start on a southern Italy road trip.

standing in the centre of naples

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 2 Naples to Pompeii

Travel time from naples to pompeii.

Travelling from Naples to Pompei will take approximately 30 minutes, but if you are touring the southern part of Italy during summer, Pompei can be hot, very hot! So I highly recommend arriving early or late in the afternoon to save you from the midday sun as there is no shelter.

Things to do in Pompeii

We all know the reason to come to the old town of Pompeii is to see the Unesco world heritage site; the  ruins of Pompeii;   Doors open at 9 am, and tickets can be purchased online. 

Mount Vesuvius made the world heritage site of Pompeii what it is today. So while you are in the area, why not take a guided tour along the  crater of Vesuvius?  If you would like to visit yourself, then you can drive to the lower parking lot and then walk the rest of the way (approximately 30 minutes)

Once you have discovered the UNESCO archaeological sites of Pompeii, drive 20 minutes away and discover  Herculaneum. This small town is less well known but is equally as impressive as being blanketed by ash and preserved over these years.

My son on a rock in pompeii

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 3 Naples to Capri

Travel time from naples to capri.

The  ferry  you catch will depend on how long it will take to get there (prices vary). Catch the slow ferry, and you will arrive in just under 1.5 hours, catch the regular ferry and be in Capri in just under 1 hour; however, if you want a faster way to get there, catch the high-speed ferry, and you will be there in 40 minutes. 

Car Parking

If you plan to stay the night on the Island of Capri, you must park your car at the Naples Port . However, parking is not expensive, and the parking station is conveniently located with a shuttle bus service to the port offered for customers.

Things to do on the island of Capri

Suppose you would rather not spend the night on Capri and instead make a day trip, head over on a   tour   of this beautiful island (including the Blue Grotto). Here you will go on a guided tour of this magical island without worrying about parking the car for the night. 

If you want to see why this island has a reputation as being outstanding, then why not see it from the ocean? Spend a day on a  boat tour  of this beautiful island and its amazing grottos (yes, there is more than one).

Hire a boat from the dock as soon as you arrive on Capri; many companies offer a trip out to the Grottoes. These are not tours but a trip to the Grottos, where you pay another person with a small dingy to visit the actual Grottos. 

The Blue Grotto is the most well-known for its history of witches, monsters, and Emperor Tiberius’ personal swimming hole; this spectacular cave is blue beyond blue! Why? Because sunlight passes through the underwater cavity, this reflection illuminates and makes the water so blue that it is breathtaking. 

On the other side of the island of Capri, you will find the Grotta Verde (Green Grotto). The colour in each Grotto is determined by the unique combination of water clarity, light source, cave depth, and Grotto’s size. 

The Grotta Bianca (white cave) has white limestone rocks set against the crystal blue sea, combined with the density of the water and the stalactites and stalagmites, which gives it that spectacular look.

Just a reminder that; all caves will depend on season, and the rise of the ocean, so check before you go. If the sea is too high, you will not have access to the caves. 

Accommodation: 

Splurge:  Relais Maresca Luxury Small Hotel V iews to die for, convenient location for a night stay, this small hotel has it all, right on the coast of one of the prettiest islands in Italy. So stop over for one night or splurge and stay one week; you will not get sick of the views from your room (I promise). 

Budget : Don Raffaé  I f you are looking for value for money, Don Raffae is the perfect place to stay. It is metres from a beautiful little coastal beach with the bus station is minutes away. Choose a room with a terrace to enjoy the entire experience of being on the island of Capri.

sailing to Capri

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 4 to Day 6 Capri to Amalfi Coast

Travel time from naples to positano.

From one slice of heaven to another, today, you will head back to Naples, pick up the car and drive to the Amalfi Coast. Just a short 1.5 hours away from the Naples Port will have you there in time to be relaxing on the beach and enjoy a heartful Italian lunch.

Things to do in Positano 

Spend the entire day relaxing in this beautiful part of Southern Italy. Lay on the beach, enjoy a long lunch and take it easy. You have plenty of time to explore the Amalfi Coast. 

The Amalfi Coast was listed in 1977 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, consisting of 13 towns in the region. So there are a lot of exciting areas to explore.

The drive along the Amalfi coastal road is one of the most breathtaking views in Italy. However, it can be slightly terrifying as you zigzag along the coastal road.

Spending time on the water may seem luxurious on the Amalfi coast, and to some, it probably is. But you have to experience Amalfi and Positano on a boat tour, where you will stop to explore the towns, swim in the crystal clear ocean and enjoy time snorkelling, amongst other things.

Visit other unique towns such as Sorrento and Ravello. See why people come back here year after year! If you think a private guide would be a better option for exploring the Amalfi villages, try a  tour   where a knowledgeable guide can answer all your questions. 

Drive inland for approximately 1 hour, and you will find  Ferriere Valley,   where you can spend the day hiking the pristine wildness and discover hidden gems (like waterfalls). 

Accommodation in Positano

Splurge –  La Caravella di Positano – The location of La Caravella di Positano says it all. Right on the beach of one of the most talked-about locations in the world. Just a 3min walk to the ferries as well as shops and restaurants. The view takes your breath away.

Budget – La sorgente del sole – La Sorgente del sole offers a great price in this rather expensive town. It also provides a place to park your car, with amazing views from the balconies; the best part is that all apartments boast their kitchen and access to an outdoor hot tub with sunbeds.

sitting on a rock on the beach

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 7 and 8 Positano to Lamezia Terme

Travel time from positano to lamezia terme.

The route from Positano to Lamezia is your longest drive, with approximately 4.5 to 5 hours of driving time (whether you take the coastal road or go the more direct inland route), so you are best to start the day early. 

Things to do in Lamezia Terme

Although there might not seem like there is much to see or do in this little old town in Southern Italy, we all know looks can be deceiving! So why not explore the village by visiting  Museo Archeologico Lametino , Teatro Umberto I and the beautiful Pontile di Lamezia (about a 20-minute drive to the coast)?

Accommodation in Lamezia Terme

Splurge –  Albergo Centrale – You won’t be paying ridiculous prices in this part of Italy. Instead, your splurge is nothing more than what you expect to pay for budget accommodation. However, you will be pleasantly surprised as the rooms are clean and modern, and the location is within walking distance of all you need.

Budget –  Carpe Diem – If you only want to pay half the price of Albergo Centrale, then Carpe Diem is highly recommended. Only ten minutes walk away from the centre, these highly sort after newly renovated air-conditioned rooms are for rent. With tv, private rooms and a fridge, what else do you need?

standing in front of an old house

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 9 to 10 Lamezia Terme to Reggio Calabria

Travel time from lamezia terme to reggio calabria .

During this 1.5-hour drive, there isn’t much to see of this part of Calabria, as it is less travelled by tourists, with most opting to pass through Calabria and head straight to Sicily. 

Things to do in Reggio Calabria

If you arrive early enough and want to explore more than what Reggio Calabria has to offer, hire a guide and travel to the ghost village of  Pentedattilo , a beautiful town situated on the cliff of Mount Calvario.

Visit one of Italy’s most-priced statues at Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia.  The Riace bronzes were two life-size Greek bronzes of naked bearded warriors cast around 460–450 BC in the sea in 1972 near Riace, Calabria.

Or spend the day at one of Calabria’s many beautiful beaches. The beaches are clean, the water is crystal clear, and the area is less crowded (even in summer). 

Accommodation in Reggio Calabria

Splurge –  Grand Hotel Excelsior’ – The Grand Hotel Excelsior is ideally located between the beach and the city centre, beside The National Archaeological Museum. Some rooms have sea views (well worth the few dollars extra).

Budget  –  B&B Santa Caterina – B&B Santa Caterina is a 15-minute walk from Reggio Calabria’s seafront. With air-conditioned rooms and value for money, you can’t go past this pensione. 

View of the sea

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 11 Reggio Calabria to Messina

Travel time from reggio calabria to messina.

Driving from Reggio Calabria to the Villa San Giovanni ferry pier is approximately 15 minutes. However, be warned that there can be a long wait to get onto the ferry, so arrive early and check the ferry times before you get there. 

The Messina ferry takes approximately 25 minutes, and   tickets  can be bought online or at the  Villa San Giovanni  f erry pier. When arriving in Messina, it will take you under 5 minutes to get to the city centre.

Things to do in Messina

As the third-largest city in Sicily, this bustling town has much to offer as you start your final leg of this Southern Italy road trip. Start at the Duomo di Messina, head to the bell tower, and if you want more history, continue to The Regional Interdisciplinary Museum of Messina . Otherwise, visit the Piazza, sit down for a long lunch and enjoy what Sicily offers. 

Accommodation in Messina

Splurge –   Villa Pulejo – If you are willing to drive 15 minutes from the city centre, you will find yourself at Villa Pulejo. You will find yourself in the most magical place, far away from the hustle and bustle of Messina. This magnificent hotel has a bar, spa and wellness centre, swimming pool, hot tub and tennis court – need I say more?

Budget  –  Caio Duilio B&B – If laying your head to rest somewhere close to amenities is what you are after, then Caio Duilio B&B is the perfect place to stay the night. The pensione is clean and modern, and the friendly staff makes the experience memorable.

on the ferry to messina with the car

Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 12 Messina to Taormina

Travel time from messina to taormina.

The drive from Messina town centre to Taormina will have you there within the hour. As the trip is such a short distance, this allows you to spend the morning relaxing, as taking off too early isn’t necessary for your final journey on this southern Italy road trip. 

Things to do in Taormina

Oh, Taormina, what a wonderful place to finish your two-week southern Italy road trip. This ancient town in Sicily is beautiful to the eye and magical to the soul. Why? Well, it is hard to describe what makes this part of Italy so unique; for some reason, it makes my heart sing. 

Spend the day lying on the sunbeds, swimming in the ocean and eating incredible food. If that isn’t enough, go for a walk through The   Corso Umberto, the main street of Taormina, and you will see why it has been christened “the Sicilian Saint Tropez “. Spend the afternoon right in the centre of Corso Umberto at  Piazza IX Aprile, where there are many cafes to rest your tired legs. 

Explore Taormina and the historical sites like the  Greek Theatre of Taormina  a nd St Nichola’s cathedral of Taormina ( Duomo di Taormina) . Or spend the day getting lost in the maze of arches and backstreets this beautiful town offers! Eat alfresco, stroll the streets, grab a gelato and take in the atmosphere! 

Accommodation in Taormina

Splurge  –  Hotel Villa Belvedere – Hotel Villa Belvedere is within a 5 minutes walk from Taormina’s Corso Umberto. Ideally located, spectacular views and boasts a private swimming pool. The Hotel Villa Belvedere has an old-world charm that suites a modern-day perspective. The perfect stop for the end of your road trip.

Budget  –  Hotel Lido Mediterranee – Okay, so it isn’t quite budget, but for the price and location, it is truly worth more than what you pay. With views over the ocean, a private beach, and a 5-minute drive from the city centre, you can’t beat the Hotel Lido Mediterranee for value for money.

standing in front of the steps

Southern Italy Road Trip Day 13 and Day 14: Explore Taormina

Whether your last days are spent solely in Taormina (I don’t blame you here) or you feel like exploring this beautiful area is more your thing. It is totally up to you, but here are some great ideas for day trips from Taormina if you choose the latter. 

Taormina day trips 

Head to Mount Edna   and get up close and personal with the volcano. Listed as a World Heritage site in 2013, both the highest volcano in Europe and one of the most active volcanoes globally. Please note: The distance from Taormina city centre to Mount Edna is just over an hour’s drive. 

Savoca and Forza d’Agrò 

Visit the towns of Savoca and Forza d’Agrò and relive the   Godfather   movie by visiting where the Corleones ate, drank and married. Please note: The distance from Taormina city centre to Savoca is approximately 40 minutes.

If you are travelling with kids (or aren’t), spend the day at Sicily’s waterpark, Etnaland . Sicily can be dry and very hot during summer, so this is the perfect way to escape the summer heat. Please note: The distance from Taormina city centre to Etnaland is approximately a 1-hour drive. 

standing in front of the etnaland sign

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love to share them in the comment section below!

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive a commission at no extra cost if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure   for further information.

Check out my  Instagram page  or join the Truly Expat   Facebook group. 

Pin it for later!

sitting on a rock in the sea

Would you like to read more about Italy?

Two Week Northern Italy Road Trip Itinerary
The best of Trento Italy in 1 day.
The best of Verona in 1 day

Paula Barreca Barnes

So 17 years ago, my husband and I set off with our little family in tow, embarking on a short-term assignment in Taiwan. Although without any knowledge of expat life or the Taiwanese culture, we took the chance and decided this would be an exciting little adventure; little did we know it changed the direction of our lives forever.

View all posts

Recommended Posts

singapore in 1 day

The best Singapore 1 Day itinerary [2024]

walking past the main centre of trento

The best of Trento Italy in 1 day [2024]

Sydney Harbour

Are you spending winter in Sydney? Heres a 1 day itinerary not to miss!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Copyright ©

My name is Lisa. I started this blog to help travelers explore Rome, the city where I was born and raised, like actual locals.

Here you’ll find the best things to do in the Eternal City, ideas for day trips, and helpful travel tips. Read more about me .

A young woman standing along Via dei Fori Imperiali in Rome, Italy. She's wearing a white top and light yellow trousers, the summer blue sky behind her. On the background, the profile of the Im perial Forum with the old brown-bricks buildings. she's smiling at the camera, happy to be there.

Latest Articles

Lush greenery and towering palm trees frame the serene Piazza Cavour in Rome, with the modern architecture of the surrounding buildings basking under the clear blue sky.

Here’s Why Locals Love the Prati Neighborhood in Rome

The view of the rooftops of Nepi's historic center, which feature old and modern houses and church domes, from the top of the male tower of the ancient Borgia Castle. In the background is Mount Soratte, with its 6 peaks.

Nepi, Italy: a Local’s Guide to Discovering the “Town of Water”

A young woman stands admiring a dynamic street art mural at the Tor Marancia open-air museum in Rome, Italy, featuring abstract swirling shapes resembling fish in motion, creating an immersive urban art experience.

14 Fun Things to Do in Rome for Young Adults (From a Local)

Tourists walking around the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, the Four Rivers Fountain, in Piazza Navona, Rome, with its impressive obelisk and sculpted figures representing major rivers, under a clear blue sky.

Exploring the Parione Neighborhood in Rome: a Local’s Guide

The Santa Severa beach near Rome offers a panoramic view of the Tyrrhenian Sea, lined with a vibrant array of beach umbrellas. Crowds of beachgoers enjoy the sun and surf, with the lush greenery in the foreground offering a natural contrast. This popular summer destination captures the essence of Italian coastal life, bustling with activity and scenic views.

11 Best Beaches near Rome to Enjoy in 2024 (From a Local)

This last photo illustrates the awe-inspiring sight of a single hiker in front of a towering waterfall. Surrounded by rock walls and wild vegetation, it captures the essence of adventure and the natural beauty accessible just outside Rome.

9 Best Hikes near Rome for Nature Lovers (From a Local)

Rome Travelogues

  • Privacy Overview
  • Strictly Necessary Cookies
  • Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

More information about our Cookie Policy

TheTravel

10 Scenic Road Trips In Italy And Their Best Stops

  • Italy offers countless options for vacation spots, with historical sites, museums, sports, cuisines, and romantic sites captivating visitors worldwide.
  • Planning a road trip through Italy is the best way to explore and experience the country's beauty at your own pace.
  • From scenic drives through Tuscany to coastal road trips along the Amalfi Coast, Italy's diverse landscapes offer stunning views and unforgettable experiences.

There is no other better place to vacation in Europe than Italy. This southern European nation is home to some of the cheapest vacation spots in Europe and is blessed with many historical sites and attractions that captivate visitors worldwide. Arts, museums, sports, cuisines, and romantic sites fill this place, giving tourists countless options for things to do or see. Whether visiting the capital city, Rome, home of fashion, Milan, Palermo, or anywhere else, they are guaranteed unique attractions and world-class entertainment.

Planning a road trip through Italy is one of the best ways to explore and experience this country's beauty. Italian road trips reward travelers with dreamy views at their own pace. With well-connected cities and exceptional infrastructure, the nation is ideal to explore with a car. Here are the top ten scenic road trips that allow individuals to soak in the beauty of this nation.

Under the Tuscan Sun

The Heart of Tuscany, Florence, offers many things to do , but a drive between the city and Orvieto is an excellent way of experiencing the Tuscan side of Italy, which has many vineyards, fascinating cafes, and medieval hamlets. This road trip is great for wine tasting, food tours, or someone who wants to walk around the local region. Oenophiles and epicures love it. Remember to stop at Siena, about an hour from Florence, to visit the iconic and historic plaza, Piazza del Campo , historic churches, and the many art galleries. Pistoia and San Gimignano are other fantastic stopovers that lead individuals to captivating attractions.

  • Route : from Florence to Orvieto
  • Distance: 165 km
  • Best time to visit : late September to October, between April and May

Related: Florence After Dark: 10 Things To Do In This Italian City At Night

Naples To Calabria

Following the Southern Italy route, a road trip takes individuals to popular and off-the-beaten-path attractions. Along the route, they see several hidden gems and renowned stops. The trip starts in Campania, where one can explore the historic center and grab some delicious bites. Then, start the journey and stop at the secret Basilicata region , the oldest city worldwide and home to the Sassi di Matera caves . The next stopover is at Puglia, where one can find the caves of Grotto dell'Poesia and Santa Cesarea Terme thermal baths. The last stopover is in Calabria, where individuals laze around the stunning beaches.

  • Route: starting in Campania, Naples
  • Distance : 190km
  • Best time to visit : June, September, and October

Sicily's Southeast

Sicily is one of the Mediterranean’s largest islands worth a visit. Take a road trip along this island and enjoy the beautiful beaches, fascinating mini islands, epic monuments, authentic seafood cuisines, roadside stores, and vintage bars. The trip takes travelers through many medieval hamlets with many years of history. Pause to see fascinating architecture like Francofonte, renowned for red oranges, Vizzini, the oldest hamlet in the region , and Chiaramonte Gulfi , an area filled with churches, museums, and local food vendors. Don't fail to stop at The Valley of Temples in Agrigento, approximately three hours from Ragusa.

  • Route: Start from Catania
  • Distance : 103 km
  • Best time to visit: May to June, September to October

Rome to Terni

This soothing route is perfect for unwinding and taking a minute to soak in the beautiful scenery. The road trip uncovers some of the charms of Italy's countryside. The best stop is in the Riserva Naturale della Marcigliana , a nature reserve home to the beautiful Tiber River. Individuals can also take a short detour by passing The Apennines at Monte Terminilllo's foothills. This road trip allows individuals to experience Italian gastronomy and a relaxed way of life. Remember to pause and tour the different shops selling olive oil of great quality and enjoy food from different restaurants along the way.

  • Route: start at Rome
  • Distance: 113km
  • Best time to visit : September through October

Related: More Than The Roman Forum: Here Are Ten Ancient Forums Of Ancient Rome

The Amalfi Coast

Travelers who want a coastal vibe should take this scenic drive. The trip starts at Salerno and heads to Vieri sul Mare, a town known for ceramics and the proper start of the coastal road. Driving this route is challenging as the road is narrow, and the curves become tighter the further one goes. But the reward is beautiful dramatic views that leave guests in awe. Stop at the Amalfi, the main hub of the coast, and look around the Catterdrale di Sant'Andrea Landmark. Then, tour the Ravello above the hills. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Ristorante Pizzeria Vittoria and epic views of the town's garden. Then, drive to Positano for breathtaking views and then to the Amalfi's Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel for epic seascape views.

  • Route: start from Salerno
  • Distance: 50km
  • Best time to visit : Mid-October and Late April

Florence and Tuscany

Tuscany is known for its many beautiful places to visit . But, the best route in this region begins from the countryside, Florence. At the start of the journey lies the Renaissance architecture that individuals are welcome to explore before heading out. Then check out the attractions of the walled city of San Gimignano . Stop at Poppi, a fantastic town with many things to do and see. From there, head north to check out the jaw-dropping views of the Apuan Alps landscape. Stop at the medieval fortress of Coreglia Antelminelli and the beautiful village of Castiglione di Garfagna.

  • Route: start from Strada Regionale 70
  • Distance : 321 km
  • Best time to visit: in the spring and fall

Verona to the Dolomites

The trip starts at Verona, one of Italy’s fantastic towns to visit with fairy-tale architecture. Spend a few hours or even days exploring the city before heading out. Then go towards Lake Garda and stop at Vecchia Malcesine-Malcesine's Micheline restaurant for a delicious lunch. Base close to Riva del Garda on the northern side of the lake to check out stunning villages and enjoy water sports. Continue with the journey to the Dolomites, stopping in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Alpe di Siusi, considered the largest alpine meadow of high altitude in Europe.

  • Route : starts in Verona
  • Distance: 124 km
  • Best time to visit : May and June, September and October

Stelvio Pass

This unique road trip leads travelers to the monumental mountain pass, among the highest in the continent. The route features 46 hairpin bends, a true test of one's driving skills. There's a lot of drama along the way, including the dramatic scenery on every turn and the steep road along the route. Stop at the snow-capped mountains, beautiful lakes, and lush green forests. The dramatic scenes make this route the greatest driving road worldwide.

  • Route: start from Prato allo Stevilio
  • Distance: 47 km
  • Best time to visit: May through October

The Gothic lakeside city of Como has many things to do , and this trip, starting from Como to Bergamo allows individuals to check out some great sites. The route is marked with fascinating lakes and views of the beautiful coastline. Those taking this route should continue exploring the historic museums and stop at the many theme and amusement parks heading to the Belgamo. Lord of the Rings lovers should create time to check out Casa degli Hobbit, a cute villa with a Hobbit theme, a few minutes after leaving Como. Museum lovers should stop at Museum Cozzi Fratelli and Rec & Play Museum.

  • Route: Start from Como
  • Distance : 92 km
  • Best time to visit : Between April and September

Related: Indulge In The Beauty Of Lake Como: The 10 Best Places To Visit & Things To Do

Along Sardinia

From Bosa to Capo Caccia, this is an ideal trip for beach babies. Travelers can experience rocky cliffs on one side of the road, beautiful beaches in Italy , and lush green landscapes on the other. Stop at the Alghero or The Little Barcelona for beach hopping, surfing, chasing the sunset, or grabbing some beer. One will also spot colorful houses. So get the camera ready for some great shots.

  • Route: start from Bosa
  • Distance : 71 km
  • Best time to visit : April to June

10 Scenic Road Trips In Italy And Their Best Stops

AFAR Logo - Main

When Is the Best Time to Visit Italy? It Depends on Your Travel Plans.

Ready to plan your trip to italy, but unsure of the perfect time to go.

  • Copy Link copied

Men jump off a large, flat white rock into turquoise water

Hit the beach and embody the essence of dolce far niente— the sweetness of doing nothing.

Photo by Brendan Burden

While the summer months lure many to the shores of Italy , this Mediterranean country has plenty of reasons to visit all year long. For those wanting to avoid the crowds, the period between October and November is the best time to visit Italy. In autumn, the weather becomes delightful for piazza hopping in Florence, Rome, and other popular cities and beaches get less crowded. But don’t knock the wintertime, when visitors can ski across the country and experience Italy as a winter wonderland.

Here are the best times to visit Italy, whether you intend to explore its coastal beauty, delve into its rich history and culture, or savor its culinary delights.

Best time to visit Italy for the beach

  • Best months: April–June, mid-September–October

From the rocky riviera of Liguria in the northwest to the soft southern sands of Puglia, Italy has more than 4,700 miles of coastline , offering plenty of beaches to explore. Tradition dictates that the season kicks off around Easter weekend. By the first week of April, stabilimenti (beach clubs) begin to open their umbrellas along the Tyrrhenian, Adriatic, and Ionian seas and don’t close until October.

It can occasionally rain in spring and fall, but if the sun is shining, it’s time for spaghetti con vongole and sunbathing. Expect Fahrenheit temperatures ranging from the mid 60s to low 70s in northern beach regions like Tuscany, Liguria, and Emilia-Romagna, and in the low to mid 70s in Lazio and south.

Peak months for prices, temperature, and crowds are July and August. Average temperatures throughout the country then are in the high 80s—but expect the mercury to jump over 100 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the country when there’s a heat wave (in the south and Sicily especially), which has happened across Italy for the past several summers.

Person in orange jacket on skis in the snow.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Italy’s mountains with Dolomiti Superski ski pass, which offers access to 12 different ski areas.

Photo by Michelle Heimerman

Best time to visit Italy for skiing

  • Best months: December–March

Forty percent of the country is mountainous, and there are approximately 300 recognized ski villages and resorts spread throughout places like the Alps, Dolomites, and Apennines. With ski towns and lifts concentrated across six regions (Valle d’Aosta, Piemonte, Lombardia, Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige, and Abruzzo), snow fans can experience different regional cuisines and cultures. And it gets even better: Some of the larger and more popular ski areas, such as Cervinia and La Thuile , are interlinked within the territory as well as cross-country.

The public holiday on December 8 kicks off Italy’s ski season and gets busy by Christmas. For a calmer atmosphere, avoid the holiday period around December 8 as well as December 24 through January 6. You can also avoid the crowds by skipping well-known Alps resorts like Courmplayeur and heading instead lesser-visited places like Monterosa Trois Vallèes at the foot of Monte Rosa. Keep in mind that snowfall is not guaranteed, but resorts ensure top-notch skiing with advanced snowmaking tech.

Best time to visit Italy for food festivals

● Best months: May–October

Every Italian region has its own cuisine, and throughout the year, almost every town hosts a food festival devoted to local delicacies. These sagre include blockbusters like Piedmont’s Truffle Festival in Alba (October–December) and Naples’s Pizza Village in June.

Come during Italy’s bountiful season from May to October to catch sagre at their most bountiful, like celebrations of the red onion in Breme (June), snails in Casumaro (July/August), and fried frogs in Quadrelli (mid-August). Most of the local festivals are hosted in town centers with open-air eating and communal tables. You’ll find posters promoting sagre across towns, but for more in-depth research, visit Itinerarinelgusto and SagreinItalia .

Trevi Fountain, with three stone statues in the center, white building with columns behind it.

The Colosseum, the Forum, the Pantheon—few cities have more iconic sights than Rome.

Photo by Phillip Minnis/age fotostock

Best time to visit Italy for its popular cities

● Best months: October–May

One of the benefits to visiting Rome is its climate, in which visitors can enjoy piazza life for 10 months of the year. Winters are short and mild, which means the best time to visit the Eternal City is in the fall shoulder season (October to early December) and mid-winter (January through mid-February). While late spring, summer, and early fall guarantee gorgeous weather, winter offers a quieter vibe perfect for meandering through museums and exploring ancient sites like the Forum. It may be a little chilly and rainy in winter, but the trade-off is walking through the city’s Foro Romano without the hordes.

As with Rome, the ideal time to visit the Grand Tour cities of Florence , Venice, and Naples to max out on the weather and enjoy less tourist traffic is mid-fall and winter. Remember: Tourist action picks up during the Christmas season (December 8 to January 6).

Best time to visit Italy for trekking and cycling

  • Best months: April–June, September–October

The most ideal cycling conditions are from April to June and September to October. Expect mild weather, fewer possibilities of rain, and cooler temperatures averaging in the high 60s to low 70s across the country. Some of the best routes include the flat terrain from Lecce to Bari, the Como and Garda lakes, and the Sella Ronda loop in the Dolomites.

Meanwhile, trekkers can enjoy mountain hikes, like the Dolomites’ high routes, from May through October. But some of the most beautiful hikes in the country also include seaside landscapes, like the trek from Camoglio to Portofino in the northwestern region of Liguria, or even up the Etna volcano in Sicily.

Man behind a modern glass and wood food case arranging food

Come to Italy at the right time and you can avoid the crowds while getting your aperitivo snacks.

Photo by Federico Ciamei

Best time to visit Italy for avoiding the crowds

● Best months: October–November, January–February

Italy’s high season is traditionally June through August, but it seems to kick off with Easter, as the weeks surrounding the holiday always bring in huge crowds. With the high season extending each year, you’ll want to strategically plan your trip to avoid the crowds.

By mid- to late September, beach draws like the Amalfi Coast and Puglia’s Salento as well as island escapes like Capri, Ischia, and Sicily begin to calm down while the weather is still glorious. Through mid- to late October, you can still take a dip in the waters in Italy’s southern regions. By late October, popular cities and towns like Naples, Siena, and Taormina are much quieter, and post–New Year’s there is a notable lull in most cities and towns, except ski destinations.

Best time to visit Italy for arts and culture

● Best months: June–September

Throughout the year, there are key events for aficionados of every art. In April and May, Venice goes contemporary with the Biennales of Art (even years) and Architecture (odd years), running through mid-fall. In April, Milan is busy with Salone del Mobile , a five-day furniture and design fair that spills throughout the city.

In January and June, Florence gets sartorial with Pitti Uomo, a four-day menswear event, followed by Milano Fashion Week (MFW) Men in Milan. But the fashion week most people know of is MFW Women, which brings seven days of Italy’s best designs to Milan in September and February.

Opera buffs follow an interregional circuit, heading to Lucca from June through August for the Puccini festival and Ravello for the Ravello Music Festival. In late July, travel to Pescara for the Rossini festival, and Parma in September and October for the Verdi festival.

In early July, Perugia becomes the center of jazz for the nine-day Umbria Jazz Festival, and nearby Spoleto lights up with the Festival of 2 Worlds, an annual summer music and opera festival from June to early July.

Film fans flock to the Venice Film Festival at the end of August; during the second week of October, Pordenone holds the Giornate del Cinema Muto , an acclaimed silent film festival.

A woman laying in a super bloom of golden California poppies in Antelope Valley

IMAGES

  1. The Perfect Southern Italy Itinerary from Naples to Sicily

    road trip to southern italy

  2. Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary 2021: Routes, Maps + Tips

    road trip to southern italy

  3. Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary 2021: Routes, Maps + Tips

    road trip to southern italy

  4. Rome to Southern Italy

    road trip to southern italy

  5. 5 Best Places to Visit in Southern Italy

    road trip to southern italy

  6. Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary 2021: Routes, Maps + Tips

    road trip to southern italy

VIDEO

  1. Must visit places in Italy 2024 🇮🇹 #shorts

  2. Must Visit Places in Italy 2024 🇮🇹 #shorts

COMMENTS

  1. Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary: 2024 Guide

    Southern Italy Road Trip: Stop 3 - Puglia. Puglia is where we chose to go on our main holiday last year. Similar to this southern Italy travel itinerary, we hired a car in Naples and drove across the country to Italy's heel. Driving in southern Italy wasn't too scary, although some of the smaller towns and villages have narrow roads, so I ...

  2. The Ultimate Two Week Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

    This 14 day Italy itinerary is fairly fast-paced but can be slowed down if you have more time. I've also offered detours if you have a longer trip and the option to take a longer Italian road trip. Southern Italy Road Trip Map. Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary: Day 1-2 Campagnia. Day 3-6 Puglia.

  3. Southern Italy Itinerary: Amalfi Coast, Matera, Alberobello & Puglia

    Day 2: Puglia day trip from Alberobello. Day 3: Visit Alberobello in the morning and afternoon, in the late afternoon drive to Matera. Day 4: Matera. Day 5: Drive to Castelmezzano, tour Castelmezzano and Pietrapertosa, sleep in Castelmezzano. Day 6: Drive to Paestum and continue to Sorrento/Positano. Day 7: Amalfi Coast.

  4. Southern Italy Road Trip: From Heel To The Toe

    Southern Italy Road Trip: From the Heel to the Toe. Updated September 2023, The Southern Italy Road Trip was originally written in December 2018. This Southern Italy road trip will take you through Italy's southern regions of Campania, Basilicata, Puglia, and Calabria. These regions don't quite get the number of foreign tourists (except for ...

  5. Two Week Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

    Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 4 to Day 6 Capri to Amalfi Coast Travel time from Naples to Positano. From one slice of heaven to another, today, you will head back to Naples, pick up the car and drive to the Amalfi Coast. Just a short 1.5 hours away from the Naples Port will have you there in time to be relaxing on the beach and enjoying a ...

  6. The Best Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary In 2024

    Rabatana has an incredible history, and dates back to the year 800. It was built by the Saracens, who ran the town for 400 years whilst others around them were defeated. It was probably due to the unique location of the Borghi. You'll notice Rabatana is a work in progress, much of the town needs restoration and TLC.

  7. SOUTHERN ITALY ROAD TRIP: NAPLES TO PALERMO

    A southern Italy road trip is the best way to explore the culture and cuisine of this remarkable region. From Naples to Palermo, the area is packed with museums, archeological sites, wonderful food and local wine. This itinerary will help you maximize your trip.

  8. The Best 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

    10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary. This south of Italy road trip starts in Naples and ends in Lecce. Day 1: Naples. 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.

  9. How to Take a Southern Italy Road Trip for Boomer Travelers

    TREMITI ISLANDS. The Adriatic sea in Italy is not known as the best sea, except this area, the area of the Gargano and of the Tremiti Islands. In the Tremiti were found settlement of human being of the stone age and they deserve a tour. We will dedicate the ENTIRE day. In the night back to Rodi. DAY 5 - 26-OCT.

  10. How to Plan the Perfect Road Trip in Southern Italy

    Here's how to do it. Fly into Bari—one of Puglia's two international airports—and rent a premium car from Hertz Italy in the arrivals hall. Kick off the trip by checking into Borgo Egnazia ...

  11. 40 Things Nobody Tells You About Southern Italy Travel

    To get to Southern Italy, you'll likely need to fly into Rome and take the scenic train ride 3-5 hours down the coast. The western coast of Italy is full of hills and mountains and pine trees - I was totally getting California vibes. But like, California with ruins. And castles. … but don't pay extra for first class.

  12. The ultimate one week Southern Italy Itinerary

    Option 2 - Southern Italy itinerary by train. First stop: 2 nights in Rome. Second stop: 2 nights in Sorrento. The third stop: 3 nights on the Amalfi Coast. Option 3 - Southern Italy and Sicily itinerary. First Stop: 2 nights in Alberobello. Second stop: 1 night Matera. Third stop: 1 night in Reggio Calabria.

  13. 3 of the Best Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary Ideas You'll Love

    This southern Italy road trip begins in the ancient town of Palermo - a destination noted and celebrated for its rich history, distinctive culture, spectacular architecture, and savory cuisine. The city has played an important role throughout history, and therefore it makes sense why it has magnificent remains of the days of its glory splattered all across.

  14. Ultimate Italy Road Trip (North & South)

    Italian road trip basics. Some quick tips for driving in Italy: Italy drives on the right. Motorways are GREEN, dual carriageways are blue (opposite to the UK and much of Europe) The maximum speed for private vehicles under 3.5t is 130kph (81mph) on motorways but speed limits are lower for cars towing caravans and for motorhomes over 3.5t in ...

  15. Southern Italy Road Trip: Naples to Palermo

    Jan. History and local culture. What a combination. And what a great quest to pursue on a Southern Italy road trip from Naples to Palermo, the location of which is a paradise for lovers of both. Here is a 1,200-mile, 2-week odyssey to maximize both these aspects by visiting the best cities in Sicily, famous for both history and local culture.

  16. Puglia Road Trip: My 1-Week Southern Italy Itinerary

    Here's my 1-week Southern Italy itinerary that packs in the best beaches, towns and grottos. Mention Southern Italy and most people think of the flamboyant Amalfi Coast or sun-kissed Sicily. Puglia Road Trip: My 1-Week Southern Italy Itinerary - Wild Junket Adventure Travel Blog

  17. Southern Italy Itinerary: A Dream Vacation In the South Of Italy

    Join us on our itinerary for southern Italy, for a dream road trip, from Naples to Taranto. Tailor Made Journey Tailor-Made Italy: Puglia & the Amalfi Coast. Embark on a memorable journey to southern Italy to enjoy its outstanding flavours, sights, and experiences - from the ancient towns of Puglia to the gleaming Amalfi.

  18. The ultimate Puglia road trip itinerary; exploring Southern Italy

    A Puglia road trip is a must-do adventure for any traveler who dreams of exploring Southern Italy. This region, located in the heel of Italy's boot, boasts some of the most picturesque landscapes, quaint towns, and stunning beaches you'll ever encounter.

  19. 6 of the best road trips in Italy

    2. The Tuscan tour. Best road trip for art and architecture. Florence-Orvieto; approx 210km/130 miles, 2-3 days. Taking in two of Italy's great medieval cities, the wine treasures of Chianti and swathes of classic Tuscan scenery, this two-day route leads from Florence to Orvieto in the neighboring region of Umbria.

  20. Ultimate Italy Road Trip Itinerary

    The Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More. From the vibrant city of Naples and the awe inspiring views of the Amalfi Coast, to the traditional Italian towns of Puglia and Sicily's beaches, volcanoes and cuisine, it's time to plan the ultimate southern Italy road trip!

  21. Two Week Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary in 2024

    Road Trip Around Italy For Two Weeks. Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 1 Naples. Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 2 Naples to Pompeii. Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 3 Naples to Capri. Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 4 to Day 6 Capri to Amalfi Coast. Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 7 and 8 Positano to Lamezia Terme. Southern Italy Road Trip: Day 9 to 10 ...

  22. Epic Southern Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary (with local tips!)

    2 Sorano. This medieval village is built out of the tuff stone that shapes the region. Sorano is located on a dramatic tuff cliff surrounded by the River Lente. The village is similar to Pitigliano, which is another stop on this Southern Tuscany road trip, but even more secluded, and smaller.

  23. 10 Scenic Road Trips In Italy And Their Best Stops

    Naples To Calabria . Following the Southern Italy route, a road trip takes individuals to popular and off-the-beaten-path attractions. Along the route, they see several hidden gems and renowned stops.

  24. Southern Italy Road Trip Map

    Southern Italy Road Trip Map - Google My Maps. Open full screen to view more. This map was created by a user. Learn how to create your own. From driving along the Amalfi Coast and enjoying ...

  25. The Best Time to Visit Italy, Based on Your Travel Plans

    Best time to visit Italy for its popular cities Best months: October-May One of the benefits to visiting Rome is its climate, in which visitors can enjoy piazza life for 10 months of the year. Winters are short and mild, which means the best time to visit the Eternal City is in the fall shoulder season (October to early December) and mid-winter (January through mid-February).