Campania, Calabria & Sicily: 12-Day Journey
Explore southern Italy from Naples to Catania in 12 days, through Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, Tropea, Reggio Calabria, Palermo, Agrigento, Etna and Taormina.
Highlights
- Naples, Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast
- Calabria's Coast of the Gods
- Sicily from Greek Temples to Etna
Overview
Spend time around Tropea and Capo Vaticano, then discover Scilla and Reggio Calabria, home to the Riace Bronzes. Cross the Strait of Messina to Cefalù and continue to Palermo and Monreale for Sicily's Arab-Norman heritage.
The route then connects Agrigento's Valley of the Temples with the Roman mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale, Noto's Baroque architecture and historic Syracuse. Finish with the volcanic scenery of Mount Etna and the coastal town of Taormina.
The itinerary is designed around achievable overnight stops rather than long return journeys. Accommodation, meals, coach and ferry arrangements, local guides and ticket inclusions are subject to the confirmed quotation.
Day by day
- 1
Day 1
Arrival in Naples
Your journey through Southern Italy begins in Naples, a city of remarkable contrasts where centuries of history, lively street life and Mediterranean traditions come together beneath the silhouette of Mount Vesuvius.
Upon arrival at Naples International Airport, continue to your hotel according to the transfer arrangements confirmed for your journey.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy the opportunity to explore the surrounding neighbourhood, relax after your flight or take your first walk through the colourful streets of Naples.
Discover the atmosphere of a city famous for its historic cafés, traditional pizzerias and unmistakable local character. This is your introduction to a journey connecting three fascinating regions of Southern Italy, each with its own landscapes, cuisine and cultural identity.
Overnight in Naples.NaplesNaples - 2
Day 2
Naples and Pompeii
Begin your day discovering Naples, one of Europe's most historically significant cities. Explore selected landmarks of its historic centre, where monumental churches, narrow streets and everyday Neapolitan life reveal the city's distinctive character.
Discover the area around Naples Cathedral, dedicated to San Gennaro, and experience the lively atmosphere of the old town, where artisan workshops, small shops and traditional food stalls remain part of the local culture.
Continue towards Pompeii, the extraordinary Roman city buried beneath volcanic ash following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
Walk along ancient streets and discover the remains of private houses, public buildings, temples and gathering places that reveal how people lived nearly two thousand years ago.
The archaeological site provides an exceptional insight into Roman daily life, from domestic architecture and commerce to religion and entertainment.
Following the visit, return to Naples, with the evening available to enjoy the city's renowned culinary traditions.
Overnight in Naples.Naples; PompeiiBreakfastNaples - 3
Day 3
Amalfi Coast
Today discover one of Italy's most celebrated coastal landscapes: the spectacular Amalfi Coast, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Travel along a coastline characterised by dramatic cliffs, terraced gardens, lemon groves and colourful settlements overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Depending on seasonal traffic conditions and vehicle access, the excursion includes selected coastal viewpoints and opportunities to explore some of the area's historic towns.
Discover the maritime character of Amalfi, once a powerful Mediterranean republic, with its picturesque streets, lively squares and impressive Cathedral of Sant'Andrea.
Where the day's routing allows, continue towards Ravello, a hilltop town celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and magnificent views across the coastline.
Throughout the excursion, appreciate the contrasts between the deep blue Mediterranean, the rugged coastal mountains and the traditional architecture that makes this region so distinctive.
Return to Naples in the evening.
Overnight in Naples.Amalfi Coast; NaplesBreakfastNaples - 4
Day 4
Southbound to the Coast of the Gods
Leave Campania behind and travel south towards Calabria, a region where mountain landscapes, traditional villages and beautiful Mediterranean coastlines remain closely connected.
The journey follows the Tyrrhenian side of Southern Italy, offering changing views of hills, agricultural landscapes and coastal scenery.
After suitable breaks along the route, arrive in the Tropea area, on the celebrated Costa degli Dei, or Coast of the Gods.
Tropea is one of Calabria's most recognisable seaside towns, with its historic centre perched on cliffs above white-sand beaches and clear turquoise water.
Discover the atmosphere of its narrow streets, historic buildings and panoramic terraces overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.
One of the town's most distinctive landmarks is the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola, dramatically positioned on a rocky promontory beside the historic centre.
Enjoy time to appreciate the coastal scenery and the character of this beautiful Calabrian town.
Overnight in the Tropea area.Naples; TropeaBreakfastTropea area - 5
Day 5
Tropea, Capo Vaticano and Scilla
After breakfast, continue discovering Calabria's magnificent Tyrrhenian coastline.
Begin with the landscapes around Tropea before travelling towards Capo Vaticano, a coastal promontory famous for its rugged cliffs, sheltered bays and panoramic views across the Mediterranean.
On clear days, the distant Aeolian Islands may be visible on the horizon, adding to the remarkable scenery of this part of Calabria.
Continue south towards Scilla, a charming seaside town associated with the legends of Greek mythology and the ancient Strait of Messina.
Discover Chianalea, the picturesque fishing quarter where traditional houses stand almost directly above the sea. Its narrow lanes, small fishing boats and waterfront buildings preserve the atmosphere of an old Mediterranean maritime community.
Admire the setting of Ruffo Castle above the coastline and enjoy views across the Strait towards Sicily.
The journey continues to the Reggio Calabria area, positioning the group conveniently for the following day's exploration and crossing to Sicily.
Overnight in the Reggio Calabria area.Tropea; Capo Vaticano; ScillaBreakfastReggio Calabria area - 6
Day 6
Reggio Calabria and Crossing to Sicily
Begin the day discovering Reggio Calabria, an important cultural centre overlooking the Strait of Messina.
The city is particularly renowned for the National Archaeological Museum of Magna Graecia, home to the celebrated Riace Bronzes, two exceptional ancient Greek bronze statues discovered off the Calabrian coast.
A visit to the museum, subject to confirmed opening arrangements and admission services, offers an opportunity to discover the extraordinary Greek heritage of Southern Italy.
Continue along the Lungomare Falcomatà, Reggio Calabria's elegant seafront promenade, with views across the Strait towards the Sicilian coastline.
The journey then continues to the port for the ferry crossing to Sicily, one of the most symbolic moments of the tour as you travel between mainland Italy and the Mediterranean's largest island.
After arriving in Sicily, travel along the northern coastline towards Cefalù.
This charming seaside town is famous for its medieval streets, Norman Cathedral and striking position between the Mediterranean Sea and the limestone headland known as La Rocca.
Arrive at your accommodation and enjoy the atmosphere of Sicily's northern coast.
Overnight in Cefalù.Reggio Calabria; Messina Strait; CefalùBreakfastCefalù - 7
Day 7
Palermo and Monreale
After breakfast, travel towards Palermo, Sicily's vibrant capital and a city shaped by centuries of cultural exchange.
Phoenician, Arab, Norman and Spanish influences have contributed to an extraordinary architectural heritage, visible throughout its historic streets, churches and monumental squares.
Discover the city's historic centre, including the area around Palermo Cathedral, a remarkable building reflecting the island's complex history.
Continue towards the Norman Palace and the Palatine Chapel, celebrated for its magnificent Byzantine mosaics and distinctive combination of artistic traditions. Interior visits are subject to the confirmed admission arrangements.
During your exploration, experience the atmosphere of Palermo's traditional streets and markets, where local products, street food and everyday life offer an authentic introduction to Sicilian culture.
Continue to Monreale, situated on the hills overlooking the fertile Conca d'Oro valley.
Here stands one of Sicily's most extraordinary monuments, Monreale Cathedral, renowned for its magnificent golden mosaics depicting biblical scenes.
Admire the cathedral's impressive architecture and discover the artistic legacy of Norman Sicily before returning to Palermo.
Overnight in Palermo.Cefalù; Palermo; MonrealeBreakfastPalermo - 8
Day 8
Agrigento and the Valley of the Temples
Leave Palermo and travel south through Sicily's interior, crossing landscapes of agricultural plains, rolling hills and traditional rural settlements.
Your destination is Agrigento, home to one of the Mediterranean's most extraordinary archaeological sites: the Valley of the Temples.
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this remarkable archaeological landscape preserves the monumental remains of ancient Akragas, one of the most important Greek cities in Sicily.
Explore the site and admire its imposing Doric temples, built over twenty-four centuries ago and set among olive trees, almond groves and Mediterranean vegetation.
Among the most celebrated monuments is the Temple of Concordia, exceptionally well preserved and one of the finest surviving examples of ancient Greek architecture.
Discover the history of the ancient city and appreciate the scale and beauty of this archaeological landscape, where classical architecture and the Sicilian countryside form an unforgettable setting.
After the visit, continue to your accommodation in the Agrigento area.
Overnight in the Agrigento area.Palermo; AgrigentoBreakfastAgrigento area - 9
Day 9
Piazza Armerina and Noto
After breakfast, travel towards Piazza Armerina, in central Sicily, to discover the remarkable Villa Romana del Casale.
This UNESCO-listed archaeological site is celebrated for its extensive collection of Roman floor mosaics, among the most important and best preserved in the ancient world.
Explore the villa's decorated rooms and corridors, where intricate mosaic scenes illustrate hunting expeditions, mythological stories, daily activities and the refined lifestyle of its ancient inhabitants.
The vivid colours and extraordinary details provide a fascinating picture of life during the late Roman Empire.
Continue eastwards through Sicily's changing countryside towards Noto, one of the island's most elegant Baroque towns.
Rebuilt following the devastating earthquake of 1693, Noto is renowned for its harmonious urban design, monumental churches and richly decorated palaces constructed from warm golden limestone.
Depending on arrival time, enjoy an introductory walk along Corso Vittorio Emanuele and admire the magnificent setting of Noto Cathedral and the surrounding historic buildings.
The evening offers an opportunity to appreciate the atmosphere of this distinctive Sicilian town.
Overnight in the Noto area.Piazza Armerina; NotoBreakfastNoto area - 10
Day 10
Syracuse and Ortigia, then Catania
Today discover Syracuse, one of the most powerful cities of the ancient Greek world and a place where more than two thousand years of Mediterranean history remain visible.
Begin with the Neapolis Archaeological Park, home to some of the city's most important ancient monuments.
Explore the area of the Greek Theatre, an outstanding example of classical architecture carved into the rock, and discover the archaeological remains that illustrate the importance of ancient Syracuse.
Continue to Ortigia, the small island forming the historic heart of the city.
Walk through its atmospheric streets, where Greek foundations, medieval buildings and elegant Baroque façades coexist within a compact and beautiful urban setting.
Discover Piazza Duomo, one of Sicily's most impressive historic squares, dominated by Syracuse Cathedral, whose structure incorporates the remains of an ancient Greek temple.
Continue towards the waterfront and the Fountain of Arethusa, a place closely associated with Greek mythology and the city's maritime identity.
After enjoying the character and coastal scenery of Ortigia, continue north towards Catania.
Arrive at your hotel for the first of two nights in the city.
Overnight in Catania.Syracuse; Ortigia; CataniaBreakfastCatania - 11
Day 11
Mount Etna and Taormina
After breakfast, travel towards Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano and one of Sicily's most remarkable natural landmarks.
As the journey climbs towards the volcano, the landscape gradually changes from cultivated fields and traditional villages to dramatic volcanic terrain shaped by centuries of eruptions.
Discover the accessible southern slopes around Rifugio Sapienza, where ancient lava flows, volcanic formations and views across eastern Sicily reveal the extraordinary natural character of Mount Etna.
Weather conditions and volcanic activity determine the areas that can be safely visited. Any high-altitude excursions require separate confirmed arrangements.
Continue towards Taormina, one of Sicily's most celebrated historic towns, beautifully positioned above the Ionian Sea.
Stroll along Corso Umberto, the elegant pedestrian street connecting historic gateways, picturesque squares and traditional shops.
Discover the atmosphere of the old town and enjoy panoramic viewpoints overlooking the coastline.
One of Taormina's most famous monuments is its Ancient Theatre, celebrated for its extraordinary position with views towards Mount Etna and the sea. Admission is subject to the services confirmed for the tour.
After the visit, return to Catania for your final overnight stay.
Overnight in Catania.Mount Etna; Taormina; CataniaBreakfastCatania - 12
Day 12
Departure from Catania
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
Depending on your departure arrangements, there may be some free time to enjoy a final coffee or take a short walk through the surrounding area.
Your twelve-day journey through Southern Italy comes to an end, having connected the vibrant streets of Naples, the archaeological heritage of Pompeii, the magnificent Amalfi Coast, Calabria's dramatic coastline and the extraordinary historical and natural treasures of Sicily.
From ancient Greek temples and Roman mosaics to Mediterranean fishing villages and volcanic landscapes, the journey offers a broad introduction to the different cultures and traditions of Italy's southern regions.
Departure from Catania and any airport transfer will follow the arrangements specified in your confirmed travel documents.
Breakfast included. End of services.Catania; Catania AirportBreakfast
Accommodation
Naples
Accommodation to be confirmed
Nights 1–3 · Meal plan to be confirmed
Three nights in Naples for city visits, Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.
Tropea area
Accommodation to be confirmed
Night 4 · Meal plan to be confirmed
One night on Calabria’s Tyrrhenian coast, after the transfer from Naples.
Reggio Calabria area
Accommodation to be confirmed
Night 5 · Meal plan to be confirmed
One night near Reggio Calabria or Scilla, ahead of the Strait crossing.
Cefalù
Accommodation to be confirmed
Night 6 · Meal plan to be confirmed
One night in Cefalù after the Strait of Messina crossing.
Palermo
Accommodation to be confirmed
Night 7 · Meal plan to be confirmed
One night in Palermo after the city and Monreale visits.
Agrigento area
Accommodation to be confirmed
Night 8 · Meal plan to be confirmed
One night near Agrigento after the Valley of the Temples.
Noto area
Accommodation to be confirmed
Night 9 · Meal plan to be confirmed
One night near Noto after the visit to Piazza Armerina.
Catania
Accommodation to be confirmed
Nights 10–11 · Meal plan to be confirmed
Two nights in Catania for Syracuse, Etna and Taormina.
Included
- 11 nights' accommodation along the proposed route; hotels, categories and meal basis subject to confirmation.
- Ground transportation for the scheduled itinerary, subject to the final route and quotation.
- Strait of Messina ferry crossing envisaged in the itinerary; ticketing and coach arrangements must be confirmed in the proposal.
- Airport transfers, guided visits, selected meals and site admissions as expressly itemised in the confirmed travel proposal.
Not included
- Flights to Naples and from Catania unless expressly quoted.
- Meals, beverages and personal spending not specified in the confirmed proposal.
- Optional activities and high-altitude excursions on Mount Etna.
- Tips, travel insurance and tourist taxes unless expressly included.
- Services not expressly specified in the confirmed quotation.
Entrance fees & tickets
- The historic product states that all site and museum admissions are included, but exact tickets require verification and itemisation before sale.
- Potential ticketed visits include Pompeii Archaeological Park, Reggio Calabria National Archaeological Museum, ticketed monuments in Palermo and Monreale, Valley of the Temples, Villa Romana del Casale, Neapolis Archaeological Park and Taormina Ancient Theatre.
- The final proposal must identify all included tickets and reservation requirements; optional visits are not automatically included.
Good to know
- Insider tip
- Try local specialities in Naples and Calabria during free time, and compare the maritime traditions of Scilla with those of Cefalù.
- Accessibility
- The tour involves uneven archaeological paths, cobblestones, steep streets and steps. Wheelchair access and suitable accommodation/transport must be checked individually before booking.
- What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof layer, sun protection, reusable water bottle and warm clothing for Mount Etna. Swimwear may be useful in suitable seasons, but beach stops are not guaranteed.
- Important information
- Day 4 is a substantial road transfer from Campania to Calabria. Day 6 includes a museum visit, ferry crossing and continued travel to Cefalù; operating hours and traffic must be checked. The Amalfi Coast route depends on season, coach restrictions and road conditions. Hotel names, meals, guiding, ferry tickets and all monument admissions require final written supplier confirmation. Mount Etna activities may change due to weather, volcanic activity and access rules. There is no guaranteed swimming stop.