Campania is a region defined by intense beauty and historical turmoil. The entire Tyrrhenian coast here is dominated by the presence of Mount Vesuvius. Your road trip will have contrast, driving from the chaotic energy of Naples to the beautiful serenity of the islands.
The driving routes here are legendary. The Amalfi Coast road is a spectacular journey, clinging to cliffs above the turquoise sea. Below Vesuvius, you can explore the historical power of Pompeii and Herculaneum, cities perfectly preserved by ash. From the coast, boats whisk you away to the glamorous islands of Capri and Ischia.
The cuisine of Campania is celebrated globally for its pure simplicity. This is the birthplace of pizza and the home of rich buffalo mozzarella and sweet Sorrento lemons. Look for fresh seafood and bright flavors. In Campania you can discover Italian history so close you can touch it and experience a coast so stunning it feels unreal.
Campania highlights
- Naples A chaotic, colorful and irresistible slice of Ital. Walk the ancient streets, underground tunnels and have some of the best food in the world. Explore Spaccanapoli, the Cathedral of San Gennaro and countless baroque churches woven into everyday life.
- Amalfi Coast (Scenic Drive) Considered one of the most beautiful coastal routes on Earth. This cliffside drive offers magical views, pastel villages, lemon groves and turquoise sea. Stop in Amalfi, Ravello and Praiano to experience the peaceful sides of the coast.
- Cilento Coast South of the Amalfi Coast. This quieter stretch has crystal-clear water, authentic villages and wild landscapes. It’s ideal for travelers who want beaches without the crowds.
- Pompeii This ancient Roman city, frozen in time by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. It provides an unbelievably vivid look into everyday life 2,000 years ago. Streets, villas, paintings and even bakeries remain intact.
- Mount Vesuvius Hike to the crater of the most famous volcano in Europe for panoramic views of Naples and the Bay. The trail is straightforward but unforgettable, especially knowing the mountain’s violent history.
- Capri Island A glamorous island of cliffs, hidden coves and luxury boutiques. Visit the Blue Grotto, ride the chairlift up to Mount Solaro and explore the flower-filled lanes of Anacapri.
- Positano A perfectly photogenic vertical village where colorful houses cascade down the cliffs. Its narrow lanes, pebble beaches and sea-view cafés make it the region’s most iconic stop.
- Paestum A truly underrated archaeological site with three perfectly massive preserved Greek temples. The surrounding museum displays artifacts from Magna Graecia that highlight the region’s Greek roots.
The local Four
History of Campania
The Greeks founded the city of Naples (Neapolis) and recognized the strategic value and beauty of its bay. The Romans later adopted this area as their luxury resort coast. Wealthy Romans built villas along the shores of the Bay of Naples, establishing the region as a center of culture and leisure.
The city of Naples eventually rose to become the capital of the Kingdom of Two Sicilies. This monarchy ruled Southern Italy and Sicily for hundreds of years. Naples was transformed into one of the largest and most influential capital cities in Europe during the Baroque period. This political power defined the region's cultural identity.
The sheer intensity of this history is visible everywhere you drive. You can walk through the time capsule ruins of Pompeii and explore the enormous royal palaces of the Kingdom of Naples. The constant presence of Vesuvius reminds you of the sheer force that shaped this destiny.