Longing for a Southern Italian adventure? It’s never too early to start planning. During my time in Italy, I had the opportunity to travel to Southern Italy with my study abroad group. The southern coast of Italy was gorgeous with views of mountains, ocean, and villas. We traveled along the Amalfi Coast, witnessed the ruins of Pompeii, tasted limoncello in Sorrento, and devoured fresh margherita pizza in Napoli. All that said, here are some of the best things to see and do in Southern Italy:
1. Drive along the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast was one of the most beautiful sights in Europe and it’s not hard to see why people visit very year. We visited during the spring when the weather was warming up, which is a great time to visit. There weren’t too many tourists around like in the summer months. If you’re able to drive or take a bus down the Amalfi Coast, be sure to stop along the side of the road and snap some pics.
2. Climb Mt. Vesuvius and see the ruins of Pompeii
I believe there is a cost of about 10 euros associated with climbing Mt. Vesuvius, but it was well worth the money. I’ve heard that Mt. Vesuvius is the only active volcano in Europe, and is best known for an eruption that destroyed the city of Pompeii long ago. It was sad to think about all the people who lost their lives while we embarked upon the climb upwards. Additionally, it makes you realize just how powerful the elements of nature can be. In Pompeii, we had a tour guide talk about the history of the city. It was so interesting to learn about its history while seeing the ruins of houses and streets before your eyes.
3. Taste limoncello in Sorrento
In Sorrento, we walked along the narrow cobblestone streets admiring the small establishments selling limoncello and other tasty treats. It was a goal of mine to taste limoncello, and the sour, sweet flavors did not disappoint. If you’re looking for a place to stay overnight, we stayed at Hotel Rivage in Sorrento. It was simple, affordable, and clean.
4. Naples and pizza!
In Napoli, we experienced the beautiful views of the Bay of Naples and filled our stomachs with the pizza of Napoli. Of course, almost all the pizza in Italy is amazing, but the pizza in Napoli is incredible because of its thin, soft crust, tomato sauce, and mozzarella di bufala. Grab a slice pronto! It definitely makes the list for best things to see and do in Southern Italy.
5. Visit with the locals
One of my favorite parts of traveling is getting to know the locals. Although I’m quite introverted, I will try to talk with a local anytime I can, listen to their stories, and absorb their way of life. Throughout my travels, I’ve realized most people are genuine, kind, and helpful. I remember to use common sense and stay in areas that are considered safe while traveling. The people who live in each place you travel to are really what makes that place special.
Hopefully, post-pandemic, you’ll be able to check out the beauty of Southern Italy and all that it has to offer. Let me know in the comments section what your Southern Italy itinerary looks like! Happy future travels!