Introduction: Why Choose a Southern Italy Itinerary?
Planning an Italy itinerary can feel overwhelming, especially with so many incredible places to explore. However, choosing a Southern Italy itinerary means uncovering the soul of the country. From the historic streets of Naples to the serene beaches of Polignano a Mare, this region offers an ideal balance of culture, relaxation, and adventure.
Unlike the more tourist-heavy northern cities, travel to Southern Italy reveals a side of Italy that remains deeply authentic. You’ll experience ancient ruins, dramatic coastlines, and charming towns that haven’t lost their character. Moreover, Southern Italy is often more affordable, which makes it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
In this guide, we’ll take you through a 7-day journey that perfectly captures the essence of a well-balanced Italy trip itinerary. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning adventurer, this route offers something special. Each destination is thoughtfully selected to immerse you in local traditions, historical beauty, and Mediterranean landscapes.
To make planning easier, we’ve included travel tips, logistics, and meal recommendations. Throughout the itinerary, we’ve also ensured you’ll get a taste of authentic Southern Italian cuisine and culture.
If your goal is to create a meaningful Italy travel itinerary, this 7-day route through Southern Italy offers the ultimate inspiration. Keep reading to discover where to begin and how to make the most of each stop.
Day 1: Naples – The Historic Start to Your Southern Italy Itinerary
Your Southern Italy itinerary begins in Naples, a vibrant city teeming with energy, history, and culinary delights. It serves as a perfect first stop on your Italy trip itinerary. As you step into the city, you’ll instantly feel the contrast between modern bustle and ancient charm.
Morning: Historical Center and Landmarks
Start your day in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back over 2,000 years. The narrow streets are lined with colorful buildings, artisan shops, and centuries-old churches.
Must-visit attractions:
- Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro) – a spiritual and architectural icon
- Spaccanapoli Street – the beating heart of the old town
- San Gregorio Armeno – famous for its handcrafted nativity figurines
These sites are within walking distance and offer a deep dive into Naples’ layered past.
Afternoon: Archeological Experience
No Italy travel itinerary through the south is complete without visiting Pompeii. Just a short train ride away, Pompeii gives you a surreal look into Roman life frozen in time.
Naples to Pompeii Travel Info:
| From | To | Transport | Duration | Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naples | Pompeii | Train | 30 mins | €3–€5 |
| Naples | Pompeii | Private Tour | Varies | €50–€80 |
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. Cobblestone streets and ruins can be tough on the feet.
Evening: Naples by Night & Food
Return to Naples for a traditional dinner. Of course, no stop in Naples is complete without pizza.
Recommended eats:
- L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
- Pizzeria Sorbillo
- Trattoria da Nennella (for a lively local vibe)
End your night with a stroll along the Lungomare, enjoying views of Mount Vesuvius as the sun sets.
This dynamic day sets the tone for the rest of your Italy itinerary, blending history, food, and energy in one unforgettable package.
Day 2: Sorrento – Coastal Charm and Local Flavors in Your Italy Itinerary
On the second day of your Southern Italy itinerary, make your way from Naples to the breathtaking town of Sorrento. This picturesque destination sits atop dramatic cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples. It blends seaside elegance with traditional Italian hospitality, offering a peaceful change of pace from Naples’ urban energy.
Morning: Scenic Journey and City Introduction
Traveling from Naples to Sorrento is quick and easy. You can take the Circumvesuviana train or book a private transfer for comfort.
Travel Options from Naples to Sorrento:
| Mode | Duration | Cost (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circumvesuviana Train | 1 hour | €4 | Frequent, affordable |
| Private Transfer | 1.5 hours | €70–€100 | Best for convenience |
| Ferry (seasonal) | 45 mins | €15–€25 | Scenic route, weather-dependent |
Upon arrival, start your exploration with a walk through Piazza Tasso, Sorrento’s central square. From there, visit the Church of San Francesco and its peaceful cloister. Don’t miss the Villa Comunale, which offers panoramic sea views you’ll never forget.
Afternoon: Limoncello Tasting and Local Markets
Sorrento is world-famous for its Limoncello, a vibrant lemon liqueur that’s both sweet and strong. You can visit small, family-run distilleries to learn how it’s made.
Best local producers to visit:
- Limonoro
- Giardini di Cataldo
- I Giardini di Augusto (combined with garden walk)
Afterward, head to the local market on Via San Cesareo. You’ll find everything from handmade ceramics to olive oils and spices. It’s a great place to collect souvenirs.
Evening: Sunset Dining
As the sun begins to set, choose a restaurant with a sea view for dinner. Fresh seafood is a must-try here.
Top-rated dinner spots:
- Ristorante Bagni Delfino
- Terrazza Bosquet
- O’Parrucchiano La Favorita
This relaxing day enriches your Italy travel itinerary with unforgettable coastal experiences, setting a perfect tone for the adventure ahead.
Day 3: Capri – Island Luxury in Your Italy Travel Itinerary
No Italy travel itinerary through the south would be complete without a day trip to the glamorous island of Capri. Just a short ferry ride from Sorrento, Capri is known for its dramatic coastline, upscale boutiques, and postcard-perfect views. This small but enchanting island gives you a taste of Mediterranean luxury and natural beauty.
Morning: Ferry to Capri and Blue Grotto
Start your day early by boarding a ferry to Capri. Multiple operators offer this route, and ferries run frequently during peak seasons.
Ferry Options from Sorrento to Capri:
| Operator | Duration | Cost (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alilauro | 25 mins | €20–€25 | Fast, reliable |
| SNAV | 30 mins | €20 | Comfortable seating |
Upon arrival, head straight to the Blue Grotto, one of Capri’s most famous attractions. This sea cave glows with surreal blue light, offering a magical boat experience.
Pro Tip: Visit before 11 a.m. to avoid long lines and high tides.
Midday: Explore Anacapri and Monte Solaro
Next, take a bus or taxi up to Anacapri, the quieter and more traditional side of the island. From there, ride the chairlift up Monte Solaro, the highest point on Capri.
Things to do in Anacapri:
- Visit Villa San Michele
- Shop for handmade sandals
- Enjoy panoramic views from Monte Solaro
Afternoon: Lunch and La Dolce Vita
Capri is home to some of Italy’s most elegant restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood or pasta with a sea view.
Top dining choices:
- Ristorante Il Geranio
- Da Gelsomina
- La Palette
After lunch, wander through Capri town. Visit designer boutiques or enjoy a drink at the legendary Piazzetta.
Evening: Return to Sorrento
Return to Sorrento in the late afternoon. The ferry ride offers one last chance to take in the stunning coastal views.
This day on Capri adds a luxurious highlight to your Italy itinerary, showcasing the beauty and sophistication of travel to Southern Italy.
Day 4: Amalfi Coast – Scenic Highlights of Your Italy Trip Itinerary
As your Italy trip itinerary continues, it’s time to hit one of the most iconic coastal roads in the world—the Amalfi Coast. This stretch of dramatic cliffs, pastel villages, and sweeping sea views is one of the crown jewels of travel to Southern Italy.
Morning: Drive the Amalfi Coast Road
The Amalfi Drive (SS163) links the coastline from Sorrento to Salerno, passing through picturesque towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. You can drive, take a local bus, or hire a private driver.
Travel Options for Exploring the Coast:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Car rental | Flexibility | Stressful traffic, parking |
| SITA Bus | Budget-friendly | Often crowded, slow |
| Private driver | Comfortable, guided experience | More expensive |
Start early to beat the crowds and maximize your stops.
Late Morning: Positano – Cliffside Beauty
Your first major stop should be Positano, famous for its colorful houses stacked on steep cliffs. It’s a great place to shop for linen clothing, handmade sandals, and ceramics.
Top things to do:
- Walk down Via Cristoforo Colombo
- Visit Spiaggia Grande beach
- Grab a lemon sorbet served in a hollowed-out lemon
Even a brief stop here adds elegance and charm to your Southern Italy itinerary.
Afternoon: Amalfi Town and Cathedral
Next, head to Amalfi, a town with both historical significance and coastal charm. Visit the impressive Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi) and explore the cobblestone alleys.
Try these local favorites:
- Delizie al Limone (lemon sponge dessert)
- Sfogliatella from Andrea Pansa pastry shop
Late Afternoon: Ravello’s Tranquil Gardens
Before sunset, drive uphill to Ravello, a quieter village known for its elevated views and lush gardens.
Must-see sights:
- Villa Rufolo
- Villa Cimbrone and the Terrace of Infinity
This serene setting is the perfect end to a breathtaking day, rounding out a full and vibrant chapter of your Italy travel itinerary.
Day 5: Matera – Timeless Beauty in Your Southern Italy Itinerary
As you leave the coast behind, your Southern Italy itinerary takes a turn inland to one of Italy’s most fascinating cities: Matera. Known for its ancient cave dwellings and unique architecture, Matera delivers a haunting beauty that’s hard to find elsewhere in your Italy itinerary.
Morning: Arrival and Orientation
Located in the region of Basilicata, Matera is best reached by car or private transfer. While trains from Naples or Salerno are available, they can be time-consuming and require changes.
Travel Distances (Approximate):
| From | To | Time (Driving) | Best Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amalfi Coast | Matera | 3.5 – 4 hrs | Via SS407 |
| Naples | Matera | 3 hrs | Via A16 & SS96 |
Once you arrive, check in to a Sassi cave hotel, a signature Matera experience.
Late Morning: Explore the Sassi Districts
Matera’s historic center is divided into two main cave areas: Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. These ancient neighborhoods are carved into limestone cliffs and have been continuously inhabited for thousands of years.
Highlights of the Sassi:
- Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario – a restored cave home
- Rock churches like Santa Maria de Idris
- Palombaro Lungo – an underground water cistern
These sites add remarkable cultural depth to your Italy travel itinerary.
Afternoon: Cultural Insights and Local Cuisine
Spend your afternoon visiting MUSMA, the Museum of Contemporary Sculpture housed in a cave, or enjoy a guided walking tour for more historical insights.
For lunch, try Matera’s local dishes:
- Orecchiette pasta with turnip greens
- Lucanian sausage
- Pane di Matera – traditional semolina bread
These regional specialties reflect the earthiness of this ancient city.
Evening: Golden Hour in Matera
As daylight fades, Matera’s honey-colored stone structures glow under the evening sun. Find a rooftop restaurant and enjoy dinner with panoramic views of the ravine.
This day enriches your Italy trip itinerary with an unexpected and unforgettable experience, blending history, architecture, and soul.
Day 6: Alberobello – The Storybook Stop in Your Italy Travel Itinerary
As your Italy travel itinerary continues through Southern Italy, you’ll encounter the whimsical town of Alberobello. Famous for its unique trulli, whitewashed stone houses with conical roofs, this UNESCO World Heritage site feels like a village from a fairytale. It’s a must-see stop that adds charm and cultural richness to your trip.
Morning: Travel to Alberobello and Introduction
Reaching Alberobello from Matera is relatively simple by car or private transfer. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it an easy morning drive.
Travel Snapshot:
| From | To | Distance | Duration (Driving) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matera | Alberobello | ~75 km | 1.5 – 2 hrs |
Once in town, head straight to the Rione Monti district, home to over 1,000 trulli.
Late Morning: Walking the Trulli Districts
Alberobello is divided into two main trulli zones:
- Rione Monti – tourist-friendly with shops and cafes
- Aia Piccola – quieter, more residential, great for authentic photos
Key points of interest:
- Trullo Sovrano – the only two-story trullo, now a museum
- Church of Sant’Antonio – a church built in trullo style
- Trulli souvenir shops – handmade ceramics, olive oil, and lace
These charming buildings elevate your Southern Italy itinerary with architecture you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Afternoon: Local Cuisine and Relaxation
Lunch in Alberobello offers another chance to explore Apulian cuisine. Meals are hearty, rustic, and often made with ingredients from nearby farms.
Typical dishes:
- Burrata cheese with olive oil and bread
- Cavatelli pasta with tomato and ricotta
- Grilled lamb skewers (Arrosticini)
For dessert, try Cartellate, deep-fried pastries drizzled with wine syrup.
Evening: Sunset Stroll and Departure
Before heading to your overnight destination, such as Polignano a Mare, take one last stroll through the trulli streets. The setting sun casts warm tones over the limestone, making it a photographer’s dream.
This day brings whimsical delight and unique cultural experiences to your Italy trip itinerary, offering a pause from the dramatic coastlines in favor of timeless charm.
Day 7: Polignano a Mare – A Coastal Finale in Your Italy Trip Itinerary
Your Italy trip itinerary concludes in one of the most visually stunning seaside towns in Southern Italy, Polignano a Mare. Perched on cliffs above the Adriatic Sea, this destination is famous for its crystal-clear waters, cliff diving spots, and whitewashed old town. It’s a picturesque and peaceful ending to a week of incredible discovery.
Morning: Arrival and First Impressions
From Alberobello, Polignano a Mare is only a short drive away, making it a relaxed transition to your final destination.
Quick Route Details:
| From | To | Travel Time | Best Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberobello | Polignano a Mare | 45 mins | SP113/SS172 |
Arrive early to enjoy the town before it gets crowded. Begin with a walk through the historic center, filled with narrow alleys, white stone buildings, and flowering balconies.
Midday: Beach Time and Local Eats
Head to Lama Monachile, the iconic pebble beach tucked between two cliffs. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply admiring the views.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try cliff diving, which has become a popular sport here.
Lunch Recommendations:
- La Locanda Porta Picc – seafood with a view
- Pescaria – casual, top-rated panini and raw fish
- Grotta Palazzese – fine dining in a sea cave (book well in advance)
Each meal option showcases the fresh, coastal flavors that define travel to Southern Italy.
Afternoon: Final Walks and Local Culture
Spend your last few hours exploring Polignano’s cultural side:
- Domenico Modugno statue – honoring the singer of “Volare”
- Sea-view terraces – perfect for quiet reflection
- Gelato on Via Roma – don’t skip dessert here
You can also shop for artisanal souvenirs or take photos from one of the many panoramic viewpoints.
Evening: Reflect and Celebrate
As the sun sets on your week-long adventure, enjoy a final meal overlooking the Adriatic. Reflect on the experiences, each one a memorable piece of your Italy itinerary.
Polignano a Mare wraps up your Southern Italy itinerary with peace, beauty, and just the right hint of luxury.
Travel Tips for Your Southern Italy Itinerary
Before you pack your bags, consider these helpful tips to make your Italy travel itinerary through the south even smoother. Southern Italy offers endless beauty, but knowing a few essentials can improve your overall experience.
General Travel Advice
- Timing: Visit in May, June, or September for warm weather without peak-season crowds.
- Cash is King: Smaller towns may not accept credit cards, so carry some euros.
- Language: Learn a few Italian phrases. English is common in tourist areas but limited in rural towns.
- Transportation: Trains are reliable, but for flexibility, renting a car gives you control over your Southern Italy itinerary.
Packing Checklist
Here’s a quick checklist for what to pack:
| Essentials | Notes |
|---|---|
| Comfortable shoes | Cobblestones and ruins are rough |
| Modest clothing | Required for churches |
| Reusable water bottle | Tap water is safe to drink |
| Daypack | Useful for short hikes and tours |
| Sunscreen & Hat | Essential for outdoor days |
Booking and Reservations
- Accommodations: Book hotels in advance, especially in Capri and Amalfi during summer.
- Tours: Consider guided tours for Pompeii and the Sassi di Matera for deeper insights.
- Dining: In popular restaurants, reservations are often required, especially for dinner.
Connectivity
Most cities have good mobile service. Consider a local SIM card or international data plan to help with maps, translations, and bookings.
Conclusion: Your Italy Trip Itinerary of a Lifetime
As your journey through Southern Italy ends, take a moment to reflect. You’ve explored coastal cliffs, ancient cave cities, Mediterranean islands, and charming hilltop towns. Each destination in this Italy itinerary offered something unique, history in Naples, beauty in Capri, and timeless peace in Matera and Alberobello.
This 7-day Southern Italy itinerary is more than a list of places, it’s a collection of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re savoring a seaside dinner in Polignano a Mare or watching the sunset from Ravello, you’ve touched the heart of Italy.
As you plan your return (and you will want to return), remember that travel to Southern Italy is not just about checking off destinations, it’s about living every moment fully. This region welcomes every traveler with open arms, warm food, and stories waiting to be discovered.
f you’re planning to explore more of the country, don’t miss our guide to the Perfect 7-Day Northern Italy Itinerary for Travelers for an equally stunning experience in the north.
We’d Love to Hear from You!
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Safe travels, and buon viaggio!