Puglia, Pompeii & Amalfi - 6 days

Your Italian adventure begins with an early morning departure from Rome, setting a course for the tranquil landscapes of southern Italy. The first highlight is Montecassino Abbey, a majestic monastery perched atop a mountain, where centuries of history and artistry await. After exploring its storied halls, the journey continues to the haunting ruins of San Pietro Infine, a poignant reminder of the region's wartime past. Winding through picturesque hilltop villages and mountain scenery, you arrive in Benevento, a city steeped in ancient legends and layered civilizations. As the day draws to a close, you reach Ariano Irpino, where you settle in for a restful night at a comfortable local hotel (or similar), reflecting on a day filled with culture, history, and breathtaking views.

After breakfast in Ariano Irpino, the tour ventures south into the heart of Puglia, Italy’s sun-drenched heel. The first stop is Trani, renowned for its elegant marina, medieval churches, and atmospheric Jewish quarter. Next, you’ll be captivated by the dramatic cliffs and azure waters of Polignano a Mare, where you can enjoy lunch at your leisure while watching daring cliff divers. The journey continues to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its whimsical trulli houses, where you can wander through enchanting streets lined with these iconic stone dwellings. The day concludes in Lecce, your base for the next two nights, where you’ll unwind in a charming hotel (or similar) and savor the flavors of southern Italy.

Begin your day with free time to explore Lecce’s enchanting old town, celebrated for its ornate Baroque architecture and lively piazzas. In the afternoon, the tour heads to the sun-kissed shores of the Salento Peninsula, starting with Otranto. Here, you can stroll along ancient fortifications and the scenic harbor, sampling local delicacies as you go. The journey continues to Gallipoli, a picturesque seaside town where the old town is surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a leisurely walk through its charming streets before returning to Lecce for another comfortable overnight stay.

Leaving Lecce behind, the tour travels to the extraordinary city of Matera, where ancient cave dwellings and rock-hewn churches create a unique landscape recognized by UNESCO. Explore the labyrinthine streets and discover sites immortalized in film. The adventure continues into the Lucanian Dolomites, arriving at Castelmezzano, a dramatic village perched high above a gorge. Here, you can hike to the evocative castle ruins and soak in panoramic views. The day ends with a scenic drive to Salerno, where you’ll spend the night at a welcoming hotel (or similar), perfectly positioned for the next day’s coastal exploration.

Today is dedicated to the splendor of the Amalfi Coast, where pastel-colored villages cling to dramatic cliffs and the Mediterranean sparkles below. Begin in Sorrento, famed for its citrus groves and vibrant piazzas, where you can sample refreshing limoncello. Continue to Positano, a dazzling town with cascading houses and chic boutiques, perfect for a leisurely lunch with sea views or a swim at the beach. The afternoon brings a scenic ferry cruise along the Amalfi Coast, offering unforgettable vistas and photo opportunities. As the sun sets, return to Salerno for another relaxing evening at your hotel (or similar), perhaps with a drink in hand as you watch the sky change colors.

On your final day, journey north to the legendary slopes of Mount Vesuvius, where a guided hike to the crater reveals sweeping views and fascinating geology. Next, step back in time at Pompeii, the ancient city preserved by volcanic ash, offering a vivid window into Roman life. After exploring these iconic sites, the tour returns to Rome, where you arrive in the early evening. Your unforgettable Italian journey concludes with memories of diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.