Southern Italy Sampler

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Sorrento

   The genteel resort town of Sorrento on the southern end of the Bay of Naples is clearly designed for comfort. Complete with a solid portfolio of three to five star hotels, plenty of restaurants and gelaterias it's a typical slice of the Italian riviera. It makes for an easily accessible and affordable base for boat trips to Capri, a visit to Naples, Pompeii and Vesuvius or a jaunt to the other side of the Sorrentine peninsula to the Amalfi Coast. In Sorrento itself you'll enjoy all the advantages of a small town with a sizeable year-round population and a cosy Centro Storico packed with bars, antique shops, churches and grand old palazzos.

   Upon landing at the Naples Airport, our driver will pick you up and take you directly to your accommodation in Sorrento. The drive should take about 1 hour.

   

   Indulge alla Sorrentino

   Even though limoncello is the most famous product in this area, there are many other foods and specialties to try in Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. Some of the most famous are Provolone del Monaco di Sorrento, a sort of semi-hard cow's milk cheese that has a smooth texture and mild smoky flavor, which goes great with local wine. The tomatoes here are also very special. There are many different varieties, and each is rich in flavor. They all taste excellent when they are sliced thick and topped with extra virgin olive oil, basil, and a dash of salt for a perfect bruschetta. Of course, the list wouldn't be complete without mozzarella! There are many places to try this famous cheese, but our favorite is the Caseificio Apreda Francesco, a traditional producer with many delicious varieties.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Sorrento

   

   Amalfi Coast Private Day Trip from Sorrento

   The Amalfi Coast boasts many picturesque marvels characterized by its breathtaking scenery. This eight-hour tour, guided by an English-speaking driver well-versed in the region's nuances, stands out as the optimal means to acquaint oneself with its splendor. Amalfi and its proximate counterpart, Positano, abound in captivating coastal architecture, their renowned harbors steeped in the historical legacy of once-thriving maritime republics. Furthermore, Amalfi garners recognition for its esteemed lemons, boasting the coveted IGP designation within Italy. Visitors are encouraged to seize the opportunity to savor locally crafted artisanal limoncello during their vacation in the region.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 8 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Sorrento

   

   Group Boat Excursion to Capri

   Experience the beauty of Capri on a full-day excursion starting from the Sorrento port. Sail along the picturesque Sorrento coastline and marvel at iconic landmarks like the Green Cave, the White Cave, and Faraglioni Rocks. Enjoy stops for refreshing swims in crystal-clear waters and explore Capri and Anacapri during four hours of free time, discovering charming spots like Piazza Umberto I. Conclude your unforgettable journey with a return to the Sorrento port, having savored the essence of "la bella vita".

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 7-8 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   

   Bagni Salvatore

   Enjoy a dip in the sea and soak up the sun at this unique swimming structure in Sorrento. Three ample tiers have been turned into a relaxing haven where you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas and spend the whole day enjoying the warm sun and swimming in the crystal-clear sea. There is a series of sunbathing platforms on the stone piers, with direct access into the sea via ladders, which makes the area all the more unique with its views of Roman ruins. The historic setting makes for a picturesque place to spend an afternoon with everything you need, including a bar and restaurant for refreshments and meals.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

4. Day 4 Traveling to Lecce by Private Transfer / Arrival in Lecce

   

   Today you're crossing "the Italian Boot", from the Mediterranean coast to Puglian Adriatic beauty. Your driver will meet you at your accommodation in Sorrento and transport you comfortably across the width of Italy. On your way, you'll stop at Pompeii, the unique archeological site, where you'll have 2 hours to explore before continuing to Lecce. The total duration of the journey is around 6.5 - 7 hours. Please note that this is a non-guided transfer. We can arrange for a guide to meet you at Pompeii for an extra fee and pre-book your Pompeii entrance tickets too if you prefer.

   Lecce is the most important town on the Salentine peninsula, the very heel of Italy. The town's rich history, stretching back to the times of the ancient Greeks, is what makes it so interesting.. The centerpiece of the old town is a 2nd century Roman amphitheater which was only rediscovered in the early 1900s during construction work, and it is still half buried; however, the exposed part is now used for concerts. Much of Lecce's historical center's architecture dates from the Baroque period and has earned the city the nickname 'Florence of the South'. These beauties stand in stark contrast to some of the Fascist buildings erected during Mussolini's reign.

   Your driver will bring you directly at your hotel in the city center of Lecce.

5. Day 5 Your First Full Day in Lecce

   

   Lecce Private Walking Tour

   Surrender to the gilded allure of Lecce on this intimate, guided walking tour through the heart of Salento's cultural masterpiece. An expert guide will lead you through a labyrinth of sun-drenched streets and hidden piazzas, transforming astonishing Baroque facades into living narratives of forgotten legends and whispered secrets. Marvel at the elegance of carved churches and aristocratic palaces, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of this unforgettable jewel of Southern Italy.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Visit Alberobello Rooftops

   Just an hour and a half drive from Lecce lies one of the most famous, unique, beautiful, authentic and recognisable places in Puglia, Alberobello and its surroundings. Known for its unique Trulli dwellings with conical stone rooftops marked with mysterious signs. This is a definite must-visit for any culture and history lover at least once in the lifetime, as well as for fantasy aficionados. Walk among Puglian Trulli, with all the stories they have to tell and try some of the delicious local food. To get there, we suggest renting a car (if you already don't have one). If you prefer not to drive, we'll be happy to arrange for a guided tour there.

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

6. Day 6 Traveling to Taormina by Private Transfer & Airplane, via Bari / Day Stop in Bari / Arrival in Taormina

   Today our driver will meet you at your accommodations and take you to Bari Airport in time to board your flight. The duration of the transfer is about two hours.

   At first glance, stepping off a ferry or a train, Bari might seem anything between unexceptional and ugly. But hidden away is a beautiful historic city center that rewards the curious traveler with a number of gems. The final resting place of the bones of St Nicholas, the saint who inspired the Father Christmas legend is in the Basilica that bears his name. Wander through the centro storico and most afternoons you'll find the local ladies sitting outside their homes making orecchiette, the 'small ear' shaped pasta that Puglia is famous for. If you have time a visit to the Norman castle, approaching its thousandth birthday now and still in rude health is worth an exploration to see whatever the current exhibit is.

   Today it's time to head to Sicily. The fastest way to get there is by taking a short direct flight from Bari to Catania, which takes about 1 hour. Our driver will pick you up from your accommodations in Bari and take you to the airport in plenty of time for your departing flight. We have included flight tickets in your package.

   Taormina is the most famous destination in Sicily, hosting actors and actresses in an atmosphere of glamor, luxury, and seaside relaxation. We recommend visiting the fascinating Greek theater, nestled in a splendid location with spectacular views of scenic beaches and the snow-capped volcanic Mt. Etna. Then take time for a walk among the picturesque medieval streets and go shopping for local handicrafts, which include coral, lace, ceramics, and sweets.

   Upon arrival at Catania Fontanarossa Airport, your driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall to take you directly to Taormina, a 40 minute drive.

   

   An Evening by the Beach

   What's better than a nighttime stroll along the beach in a city renowned for its vibrant nightlife? Take a deep breath and inhale the lovely breeze coming from the sea, sit on the beach, and enjoy the Mediterranean Sea at night. If you are up for the nightlife, the promenade in Taormina is full of pubs, bars, and discos, especially in the summer. They all promise a lively atmosphere, with live music or DJ sets.
   

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Your First Full Day in Taormina

   

   Exploring Mount Etna in a 4x4 SUV Private Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting

   Experience the raw beauty of Sicily with a private SUV tour to Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano. Travel in comfort to Piano Provenzana at 1,800m (5,905 feet), where a nature guide will lead you through striking volcanic landscapes. After the trek, enjoy a traditional lunch and wine tasting at a renowned Etna winery. Your driver will then return you to your accommodations with unforgettable memories.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 7 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Food Time in Taormina

   Taormina has much to offer in terms of food and wine, so our suggestion for a fun afternoon is a "DIY" food tour with the following stops: Start at Bam Bar for the best granita in Sicily. This traditional Sicilian dessert is a great way to freshen up - delicious crushed ice with fresh-squeezed fruit juice, chocolate, or even coffee - they have so many different flavors it will be hard to choose! Our pick for the next stop is La Bottega del Formaggio for some cheese and wine tastings. Make sure to try the rich local red called Nero D'Avola. Finish your day with a dinner at one of our recommended restaurants, such as Otto Geleng, where you can enjoy great food paired with some amazing views and, of course, pre or post-dinner drinks at the Daiquiri Cocktail Bar to chill the evening away with a cocktail or a glass of wine.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

8. Day 8 Traveling to Palermo by Private Transfer / Arrival in Palermo

   

   Today you'll leave Taormina for the lively city of Palermo. We have arranged a stop at the lively coastal town of Cefalu, where you will enjoy a 2-hour stop for lunch or a refreshing swim. With the stop, your journey takes up to 7 hours. Please note that this is a non guided transfer.

   Palermo doesn’t care if you like it. It’s the capital city of Sicily, and its biggest. Reminiscent in parts of Naples. It's not a place you'll find thronged with tourists, but the locals sure like to be outside. A hub of activity and a gridlock in rush hour and at weekends. Despite the order of the main avenues, the twisting lanes of the Centro Storico provide plenty of opportunities to get lost. Cheek by jowl here you will find grand palazzos (much of European royalty had their vacation palaces in Palermo) and scruffy tenements. Turn a corner in a grungy alley and you’re faced with an ornate fountain or pomp and circumstance statue. All of this provides a rich backdrop to your time in Palermo. Many have come before. The city was founded nearly 3,000 years ago and Palermo has truly been a crossroads of the great civilizations. Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, Germans, Spanish, Bourbon, and finally Italian rulers have held dominion over the city and left their mark. Its international airport and busy seaport make it a great starting or finishing point for an exploration of Sicily.

   Once you arrive in Palermo, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodations.

   

   Palermo by Night

   First glimpses of Palermo can be quite overwhelming; this loud and colorful city engages all of your senses at once. We suggest starting easy, with a nice drink and a meal in some of our favorite spots. Piazza Olivella (two steps from Teatro Massimo) is one of the main areas for shopping, food, and drinks. A small part of the square, known as the Champagneria, is one of the places where young people hang out. Piazza San Francesco and Via Paternostro are two vibrant areas full of bars and restaurants where you can get a feel for the Palermitan way of (night)life. Piazza Sant’Anna is the best square to enjoy a drink in summer and enjoy a favorite local past-time, people-watching, because the bars there put all of their tables outside.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

9. Day 9 Your First Full Day in Palermo

   

   Palermo Group Market Tour & Cooking Class

   Join a tour of a quintessentially Sicilian local market before enjoying a hands-on cooking class with an experienced chef, followed by a mouthwatering full-course meal, paired with superb Sicilian wines. Dessert is served with a glass (or two!) of homemade limoncello.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 4 Hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Shopping like a Sicilian

   If you want to do some shopping in Sicily, you've come to the right place! To get you started, we've collected some of the local's favorite places to shop: The best shopping streets are Via Ruggero Settimo, Via Roma and Via Liberta with Corso Alberto Amedeo which is full of small shops and antiquity stores. Real handcrafted ceramics can be found at Via Nicolo Gallo, Via Daita, and Via Isidoro La Lumia. Outdoor markets are among the best shopping places: Ballaro market dating back to the 11th century is mainly a food market. La Vucciria is the largest one, open every day except Sunday. Here you can find food, clothes, shoes, small crafts stores, as well as lots of bars and food places to enjoy a tasty snack.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

10. Day 10 Departure Day

    Today your driver will meet you at your accommodations and take you to Palermo's airport. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes.