Naples, Pompeii, The Amalfi Coast, Campania has it all: breathtaking beauty, rich history, a strong character and delicious food! With its southern warmth – both humanly and climatically speaking – Campania is certainly a must-see when visiting Italy.

When to go: Arguably spring is a great to time to see Campania: blissful sunny days, colorful wild flowers, the smell of  lemon blossoms in the air… As idyllic as you picure it! Furthermore, you will avoid the crowds and the heat of the summer time. In any case, Campania is a very touristic destination, so even during spring expect to meet a lot of people visiting the area.

Where to stay: I believe Sorrento is the best spot for exploring the region’s highlights: Naples, Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii to the north, the magnificent Amalfi Coast southeast, and a few minutes aways from the iconic island of Capri.

Campania’s food: Needless to say, pizza is on its own enough reason to visit Campania. No matter how many times you have eaten pizza before, it is certain that here you will have the most delicious pizza of your lifetime! The secret: undoubtedly the simplicity of the flavors and the genuine ingredients…

Of course Campania’s cuisine is much more than just pizza. The typical cucina di Campagna is renowned across the globe for its seafood and fish specialities, but it also includes traditional mountain dishes. This sun-kissed region also has the undisputed merit of having contributed to the birth and spread of the celebrated Mediterranean diet, with the use of essential products like tomatoes, olive oil, vegetables and of course pasta!

But most likely the worldwide recognition of Campania’s regional cuisine is the result of the cleverness and artistry of the people of this area, who masterfully have made noble, even gourmet, the local ingredients once considered “food for the poor”.

In this post I propose you a guide to explore the region of Campania on a 6-day stay, so you can get to see the most of this magnificent area…

Day 1: SORRENTO

Located over straddling imposing cliffs overlooking the impressive Naples Bay, Sorrento is a great starting point to explore the area. A busy touristic destination during the summer, with a more pleasant and relaxed atmosphere during spring time.

Wander along the narrow streets of the charming old town, visit its beautiful Cathedral and lively Piazza Tasso and grab a bite at one of the numerous cafés. Finally, to get a different view of Sorrento, walk down to visit Marina Grande and Marina Piccola. And to finish your day at the seaside, eat some authentic wood-fired pizza at the ristorante Acqu’et sale.

Day 2: AMALFI COAST – POSITANO

 

Deservedly declared by UNESCO “World Heritage Site”, la Costiera Amalfitana is without any doubt one of the most beautiful places of Italy and one of the most breathtaking scenic drives of Europe. Nestled between the mountain and the sea cliffs, following the natural course of the coastline, every turn of the road surprises you with a spectacular shot.

There are 13 towns spreading across the Amalfi Coast, all with their unique beauty and charm. Visit them all if you have the time! But the undisputed “star” of the Coast is definitely picture-perfect Positano, a former fishing village that has become a first-class tourist destination.

You don’t get enough when walking along the picturesque roads. Therefore, Positano certainly deserves a whole day to discover.

Visit the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, admire the numerous art galleries, and if the weather allows it, get suntanned at the picturesque Spiaggia Grande… And after a day of strolling -and most likely shopping- head to Ristorante Da Constantino for the most amazing panoramic view of the village, while you indulge yourself with some delicious scialatielli ai frutti di mare (pasta with shellfish), or any other of the many typical Campanian dishes the friendly staff of the restaurant will propose you.

Day 3: AMALFI COAST – AMALFI, RAVELLO

 

Amalfi, the town that gives its name to the coast, is another must-see in the Amalfi Coast. The beautiful Duomo di Sant’Andrea Apostolo (Cathedral of St. Andrew) with its impressive staircase, and the cute white houses clinging to the rock give a particular charm to this beautiful village. Besides the numerous cafés and ristorante, a stop at Pasticceria Savoia for a genuine italian gelatto is a must!After your visit to Amalfi, make a stop at picturesque Atrani and drive up -or even better, hike up!- the hills above Amalfi to reach elegant Ravello, a beautiful town known for its charming medieval streets, ravishing garden villas and majestic views. Ravello’s Italian refinement has managed, for centuries, to captivate famous musicians, actors and writers; so it comes to no surprise that it’s home not only to the renowned Ravello Festival, but also to a vibrant cultural scene.

Stroll along the narrow streets, visit Villa Rufolo, Villa Cimbrone and the Duomo, and to finish your visit with a touch of style, head to Ristorante Villa Maria for fine dining and a stunning view. Many of the delicious dishes you will savour at the restaurant -part of the eponymous boutique hotel– are made using biological products coming from the terraced gardens you can admire while you eat. And as a bonus, be sure to check the photos of the many celebrities that have stayed and dined here…

Coming up next: 6 days in Campania, South Italy – Days 4-6: Pompeii & Herculaneum, Mount Vesuvius & Napoli, Island of Capri

 

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All the photos belong to woman2womenblog.com