Italy's Amalfi Coast

Arrive Naples & Sorrento, Italy

Welcome to Italy! You are met on arrival at the Naples airport, and privately transferred to Sorrento, gateway to the Amalfi Coast.

En route to Sorrento, stop for a private two‐hour walking tour of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii. Destroyed and buried by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D., Pompeii presents a wonderful snapshot of ancient times and life. Meander through the baths, villas, and theatres of this once thriving empire of nearly 20,000 inhabitants.

Arriving in Sorrento, you are taken directly to your hotel.

Capri Excursion

Capri has many facets to its personality; the cosmopolitan bustle of the Piazzetta, the quiet elegance of Anacapri, the majestic ruins of Roman villas, spectacular landscapes, and hypnotic views of the azure sea that have inspired countless artists and writers.

Your full day excursion begins as you board the hydrofoil for the scenic half-hour ride to Capri. Disembark in Anacapri, for the start of your private tour. Inhabited since Roman times, as evidence by the many ruins, Anacapri has long been a coveted retreat for the rulers of Rome and the literati of Europe. Your guide takes you to explore the highlights of the town. See the Villa San Michele, immortalized in Axel Munthe’s 19th century autobiography “The Story of San Michele.” Munthe, a Swedish doctor, discovered the dilapidated remains of an ancient chapel dedicated to San Michele after climbing the Phoenician stairs connecting Capri and Anacapri. During the chapel’s restoration, the remains of an ancient Roman villa came to light in the adjacent vineyard. Munthe devoted years renovating the Villa into his home. The San Michele is now a museum housing several ancient artifacts unearthed during the villa’s reconstruction. Enjoy spectacular views over the entire island from the chairlift connecting Anacapri to the summit of Monte Solaro – the highest point on the island offering a panorama vista of the island and the Sorrentine Peninsula. Visit the Piazzetta of Capri – the center of the island’s social scene, stroll through the Gardens of Augustus, and wander through the colorful local boutiques and delightful cafes and restaurants.

This afternoon, board a small boat to visit the stunning Blue Grotto – the ethereal, sapphire‐blue underwater cave emblematic of the island. The cave was hidden for centuries, and then rediscovered in 1826, believed to have mystical healing powers. Today, visitors are lured here to see the dazzling interplay of light and water in this striking natural phenomenon. (Weather permitting.) 

Late afternoon, board the hydrofoil back to the Sorrento port, located at the base of your hotel. The rest of the evening is at your leisure. (B)

Explore the Amalfi Coast

Today experience a day of visual and cultural beauty as you enjoy a private driving tour of the stunning Amalfi Coast, one of the most beautiful routes in Europe, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 30-mile winding coastal roadway hugs the coast, offering breathtaking views of coastal mountains and sheer cliffs plunging into the sea. View the picturesque terraced cliffs and clinging whitewashed villas, punctuated with colorful towns and villages. Stop to visit charming Positano, a 16th century hillside town whose pastel-colored houses were featured in the movie ‘Under the Tuscan Sun.’ Stop to explore the village of Ravello, and explore the seaside resort of Amalfi, the largest town on the coast, with a beautiful cathedral, and streets lined with quaint shops and cafés.

In the afternoon, visit a lemon grove and sample Limoncello, a lemon liqueur made from the zest of Femminello St. Teresa lemons, also known as Sorrento lemons. Limoncello is a local favorite, and traditionally served chilled as an after-dinner digestive.

Arrive back at your hotel in Sorrento by later afternoon. (B)

Sorrento to Naples and Depart

Enjoy your time in Sorrento before your private transfer to the Naples airport for your departing flight home or on to your next destination. (B)