Amalfi Coast Explorer

Arrival at Naples International Airport today.  After collecting your luggage, you will be met by our local representatives and transferred to the Royal Continental Hotel or similar. The remainder of the day is free at leisure. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel this morning. Start your day in Naples with a stroll through the grand Piazza del Plebiscito, the city's iconic open-air square framed by elegant colonnades and historic architecture. Just steps away, explore the opulent Royal Palace, once home to Bourbon kings, where lavish rooms and sweeping views of the bay await. From there, head to the Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro), a stunning blend of Gothic and Baroque styles, and the spiritual heart of the city.

Our last area to visit today is the scenic Posillipo quarter, where winding roads lead to panoramic vistas, charming villas, and tranquil seaside spots perfect for soaking in the Mediterranean magic. We end our morning excursion in Naples with lunch in a local restaurant. The afternoon is free at leisure to relax and enjoy Naples at your own pace. (B,L)

Breakfast at our hotel this morning. After breakfast, we check out of our hotel in Naples and board our mini coach for Sorrento. Discover the charm of Sorrento on a captivating walking tour.

Begin our journey in the lively heart of the town at Tasso Square, where bustling cafés and elegant architecture create a warm welcome. As you wander through Sorrento’s storied streets, take in the tranquil beauty of Sant’Antonino Church and the serene San Francesco Cloister, both steeped in history and local tradition.  Marvel at the Valley of the Mills, a dramatic and ancient ravine that whispers tales of Sorrento’s past.

Then make your way to the picturesque fishing village of Marina Grande, where colorful boats bob gently in the harbor and life moves to a timeless rhythm. Along the way, soak up panoramic views of the Neapolitan Riviera — vistas that seem plucked from a postcard. In the maze-like alleys of the old town, admire the artistry of local craftsmen, from intricate inlaid woodwork to the iconic Sorrento sandals. This walking tour offers not only a glimpse into the soul of Sorrento but also the textures, tastes, and traditions that make the town so unforgettable.  After our walking tour, we will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local trattoria.  The afternoon is free to explore Sorrento at your own pace.  Our home for the next 7 nights will be the first-class La Tonnarella Hotel. (B,L)

Breakfast at our hotel this morning.  Step into the echoes of ancient Rome with a guided journey through Pompeii — a 2.5-hour adventure into one of history’s most mesmerizing cities.

Buried beneath volcanic ash after Mount Vesuvius’ catastrophic eruption in 79 A.D., Pompeii lay forgotten for centuries before its rediscovery. Today, it stands as a spellbinding window into Roman life, preserving the brilliance and complexity of a bygone civilization.

With your expert guide, you'll navigate the remarkably intact streets where prosperous Romans once lived, worked, and worshipped. Wander past grand villas, bustling forums, and sophisticated bathhouses constructed around 80 B.C., each offering an intimate glimpse into everyday life during the Empire’s heyday.  Prepare to be captivated by the vivid frescoes that still adorn walls and floors — striking artwork that has defied time and tells stories of ancient passion, myth, and luxury. Whether you're a devoted history buff or simply seeking a remarkable adventure, Pompeii’s ruins promise an experience that transcends time.

After our awe-inspiring visit to ancient Pompeii it's off to the slopes of Mount Vesuvius. Immerse yourself in the soul of Campania, a region where wine and volcanoes intertwine to create something truly extraordinary. Blessed with soil scorched by the Mediterranean sun and nourished by ancient lava flows from Mount Vesuvius,

Campania produces wines with a character as bold as the land itself. With Vesuvius towering in the background, indulge in a leisurely Mediterranean lunch, rich with regional flavors. Let your palate explore Campania’s finest wines — from the fresh, floral Falanghina, to the robust and velvety Aglianico, each sip revealing the secrets of volcanic terroir. After our delicious lunch and wine tasting, we continue to Sorrento. (B,L)

Breakfast at the hotel this morning. Experience one of Italy’s most iconic journeys with a full-day adventure along the Amalfi Coast, a landscape where the dazzling blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea meets lush Mediterranean greenery and vibrant citrus groves. As you travel this spectacular route, hailed as one of the most beautiful and thrilling drives in the world, you’ll discover the unique charm of three unforgettable towns — Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello — each offering a glimpse into the soul of Southern Italy.

Begin in Positano, a vertical village cascading down the cliffs in layers of pastel hues. Wander its winding streets and alleys lined with boutiques showcasing the world-famous Positano fashion. In the town center, admire the majolica-tiled dome of Santa Maria Assunta, a stunning parish church that shelters intricate works of polychrome marble.

Then continue to Amalfi, where a maze of stairways and narrow lanes reflects its legacy as a powerful Maritime Republic. Dominating the town is the majestic Cathedral of Sant’Andrea, a monumental tribute to the town’s historic and cultural significance.

Your final stop brings you to Ravello, perched high above the coastline and known for its refined elegance and lush villas. Famous worldwide for its music festival held in the garden of Villa Rufolo, Ravello offers both tranquility and grandeur. Explore the town’s heart at Piazza Vescovado, framed by the exquisite Palazzo Rufolo and the cathedral featuring a pioneering portal design and soaring 10-foot-high bell tower.

Midday, enjoy lunch at a local trattoria in Positano or Amalfi, savoring authentic Southern Italian cuisine amidst breathtaking scenery. This journey is more than a scenic drive — it’s a celebration of color, culture, and timeless beauty. Return to our hotel in Sorrento. (B,L)

Breakfast at the hotel this morning. Today is all about Cooking!!! Savor the essence of Southern Italy with a hands-on culinary experience in Sorrento, where the flavors are as vibrant as the views. Set in a beautifully appointed kitchen overlooking the stunning Amalfi Coast, this lunchtime cooking lesson invites you to uncover the secrets of traditional Italian cuisine under the expert guidance of a professional chef.

Surrounded by fresh ingredients sourced straight from the garden and local markets, you’ll learn to prepare iconic dishes that reflect the heart of the region.

Begin with a refreshing Caprese Salad, bursting with sun-ripened tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. Roll up your sleeves to craft delicate homemade Ravioli, and end on a sweet note as you master the art of a classic Tiramisù — a dessert as indulgent as the Italian lifestyle itself.

After your culinary creations are completed, unwind as we enjoy dining on our creations. More than just a meal, this experience gifts you not only the skills to recreate the flavors of Campania but cherished memories of a joyful journey through Sorrentine hospitality and tradition. After our class, we will be transferred back to our hotel. (B,L)

Breakfast at the hotel.   After breakfast, we depart from the hotel and embark on a stunning boat tour across the Gulf of Naples, where scenic beauty and cultural treasures unfold at every turn. Glide past the poetic island of Nisida and the dramatic coastline of the Phlegraean Peninsula before reaching the captivating shores of Ischia. This morning’s tour takes us on a scenic journey across the island, winding through its most charming coastal towns. We will explore the heart of Ischia Ponte, admire the elegance of Lacco Ameno, and stroll through the picturesque village of Sant'Angelo.  

In Forio, we stop at the stunning Chiesa del Soccorso, one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. From there, we head to a nearby panoramic viewpoint, offering breathtaking vistas and a fresh perspective on the surrounding landscape. We then gather in Sant’Angelo and head to a local restaurant where we will enjoy a traditional Ischian lunch. After the meal, we complete the island circuit with one final photo opportunity before returning to Ischia Porto for your ferry back to Sorrento. (B,L)

Breakfast at the hotel. Our last days on the Amalfi Coast are free days to enjoy at your own pace. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. Our last days on the Amalfi Coast are free days to enjoy at your own pace. (B)

Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, we will say goodbye to Sorrento and be transferred to Naples. One night stay at The Royal Continental Hotel. Today at lunch, we will have a special farewell lunch at a local trattoria. (B,L)

After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and say goodbye to Rome, and are transferred to the airport. (B)