Of Italy's southern regions, Campania is the most visited. It has much to offe. There are plenty of spectacular coastal and interior areas. Cities and towns with an intense history. Places that range from quaint towns, exciting cities as Naples or grand palaces as Caserta - the largest 18th Century palace built in Europe!
The Greeks, Etruscans, and Romans have all at one time occupied this region and the architecture across the region illustrates the richness of its history.
The Region is located along the west side of Italy, with the Tyrrhenian Sea along its coast. The region stretches from just north of Naples to south of the town of Sapri.
Over the many years of traveling throughout Italy we have spend a fair amount of time in Campania. The Amalfi Coast is a draw for us and we have been to Amalfi too many times to count. We just love it there. Atrani is the ultimate Italian town on the coast. In 2018 I took a boat to enjoy lunch with friends in the small town of Cetara. Nice to say the least. The town had a great feel and although it was busy, it did not have that out-of-control feel when tourists take over and wreck the ambiance of a place. So now I have another location I recommend.
Some of our trips have been with groups of our friends and that offers alternatives. With a group you can rent a boat and take a private cruize alone the coast and around the Island of Capri. In 2018 we did that and itincluded a very good lunch at Maria Grazia in the small town of Nerano.
In 2015 we stayed just outside of Naples and explored that end of the coastal area. Our destinations included Pozzuoli, Procida, as well as Caserta.
Don't be afraid of Naples. I was. For many years I would do everything I could to make sure I was not even driving near the city. But we have stayed in the city three times and each time I like it more and more. Yes you have to watch for pick pockets. But the only place I have had my wallet stolen was in Paris, not in Naples! We have stayed at hotels as well a apartments and the more time you spend in Naples, the more you will enjoy it.
Amalfi is our town of choice on the Amalfi Coast. Lively little town, all condensed within a limited walking area. We like that the bus center is right in town. You will be doing a lot of buses on the Amalfi Coast!
» Amalfi
This is an authentic Amalfi Coastal town. Lots of little alleyways to explore and climb.
» Atrani
Paestum a major ancient Greek city. We have visited Paestum a number of times, with our most recent being in 2018. The ruins are famous for thre three ancient Greek temples, of the Doric order, dating from about 600 to 450 BC. They are in very good state of preservation.
» Paestum
Historically Ravello was part of the powerful Republic of Amalfi. Now it is a popular town due to its vistas, gardens and summer concerts. The top sights include Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone and the Duomo. Every year we are in Amalfi we always spend a day up in Ravello. If you want, you can even walk up. The steps start just up from where the Ravello road connects with the Coast road.
» Ravello
When in Naples, take the 40 minute boat ride to Procida. You will travel back in time. An islaland of fisherman and dreamy pastel coloured buildings. Narrow streets, old Vespas, colorful boats and breathtaking views.
