One of the most visited regions in Southern Italy is Campania. With its diverse landscape, Roman Empire and ancient Greek heritage, as well as excellent buffalo mozzarella it is easy to understand the attraction. Straddling cliffs that roll into the Mediterranean Sea, chic islands, archaeological sites, emerald grottoes, imposing Mount Vesuvius and mythical rocks are some of the treasures of this region that are waiting to be explored.
Sorrento is an ideal base for visiting the enchanting town of Ravello, the exclusive village of Positano, and Amalfi, whose spectacular cathedral dates back to the 11th century and overlooks its main square, the Piazza Duomo. Maratea, further south, takes you into the unspoilt region of Basilicata which is steeped in history. Greek ruins, medieval abbeys, castles and churches are in abundance whilst the dramatic coastline, which touches the Tyrrehenian Sea, further enhances the mountainous landscape.
Itinerary includes:
- Return flights to Naples Airport
- Private transfer from Naples Airport to Sorrento (Day 1)
- 3 Nights at Antiche Mura Hotel, Sorrento (Bed and Breakfast)
- 5 day's car hire (one-way drop off fee payable locally)
- 4 Nights at La Locanda delle Donne Monache, Maratea (Bed and Breakfast)
Board Basis: Bed & Breakfast
Day 1 - Day of arrival
Private transfer on arrival to your hotel in Sorrento.
Overnight at the Antiche Mura Hotel, Sorrento.
Antiche Mura Hotel, Sorrento
Day 2 - Explore Sorrento
Day at leisure. Walk into the historical centre of Sorrento and wander though the maze of narrow streets with its shops, restaurants and cafés. Famous for its production of Limoncello, it is not uncommon to see this liqueur (made from lemon rinds, alcohol, water and sugar) on many menus. Visits for a demonstration on how this well known tipple is made can be arranged locally.
Overnight at the Antiche Mura Hotel, Sorrento.
Italian lemons
Day 3 - Pompeii
Day at leisure. No trip to Sorrento would be complete without a visit to the famous archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, buried in AD79 when Mount Vesuvius erupted. Excursions depart from Sorrento to Pompeii between May-Oct. Private excursions with an English speaking driver can always be arranged.
Overnight at the Antiche Mura Hotel, Sorrento.
Ruins of Pompeii
Day 4 - Maratea
After breakfast, collect your hire car from the downtown office in Sorrento. Drive to Maratea (209km / 3 hours) and check-in at the Hotel La Locanda delle Donne Monache. A meticulously restored 18th century monastery, the hotel offers a secluded hideaway and an ideal base from which to explore.
Overnight at the La Locanda Delle Donne Monache Hotel, Basilicata.
La Locanda Delle Donne Monache Hotel, Basilicata
Day 5 - Explore Maratea
The historical town of Maratea is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Basilicata. Immerse yourself in the history of the town with its typical narrow streets adorned with ancient arches, charming main square ‘piazzetta’ and over forty churches. Archaeological finds from the region, provide an insight into the past and are on display in the Convento dei Cappuccini and the Palazzo de Lieto Museum. Complete your day on the waterfront, Maratea port is a popular area with lively bars and dining.
Overnight at the La Locanda Delle Donne Monache Hotel, Basilicata.
Maratea
Day 6 - Basilicata
Day at leisure. A variety of activities are available in Basilicata, many of which are within easy driving distance. Horse-riding, rafting, canyoning, diving, skiing and sea excursions can be arranged locally. Three ancient pathways can be found close to the hotel, each taking you on a trek through the Carpini forest to the Church of Madonna della Neve, the Christ statue (following the old route of St Biagio) or the Church of Madonna della Pietà. For sun-seekers, Castrocucco beach is just 4km away and a complimentary transfer service, sun beds and umbrellas is offered by the hotel.
Overnight at the La Locanda Delle Donne Monache Hotel, Basilicata.
Craco, Basilicata
Day 7 - Day at leisure
Basilicata boasts many hilltop towns, each waiting to be explored. Travel to Melfi (179km), once the Norman capital, and home to an impressive castle which dominates the town. Venosa (184km), an important Roman colony dating from 290BC, offers historic delights such as its archaeological area where the remains of an amphitheatre can be seen, along with a huge castle and cathedral, both dating back to the 16th century. Perhaps most popular, is the city of Matera (178km) with its lower district and ‘Sassi’ houses. These cave dwellings, dug into the rock, were once inhabited by the people of Matera and today, although empty, are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Overnight at the La Locanda Delle Donne Monache Hotel, Basilicata.
Matera, Basilicata
Day 8 - Day of departure
Drive to Naples airport for your return flight home.