For those hoping to explore the wonders surrounding Italy’s culinary capital, there are several day trips from Naples that I urge you to take. With such diverse landscapes adorning the Campania region, I have handpicked the most worthwhile destinations for you to experience in the area.
Naples’ proximity to southern Italy is a gateway to some of the most incredible attractions in the country. Our list of possible day trips from Naples, Italy ranges from coastal paradises to bustling towns and historical sites. Among these sites are the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Salerno, and Cilento National Park. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature enthusiast, a thrilling adventure awaits you – all in the span of one day.
So, before leaving Naples, consider exploring its surrounding gems. For each day trip, I will delve into its highlights, distance from Naples, and most convenient form of transport. Join me as we set out to unearth the treasures that lie beyond the city’s borders.
The Best 10 Day Trips from Naples
Some of Italy’s best-kept secrets lie just a stone’s throw away from Naples. With such different places to explore, southern Italy truly has it all. Below you will find our top eleven places to wander through on your next Italian holiday.
1. Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast’s dramatic cliffs, quaint fishing villages, and crystalline sea create the perfect picturesque ambiance. By bus or car, this coast’s winding SS163 highway traverses 13 seaside sites with magnificent scenery. Each town offers a unique signature topography that makes it stand out. Positano boasts its pastel-painted resorts and fine Italian dining while Ravello’s ancient villas provide unforgettable views of the stunning Mediterranean. Praiano is home to one of the oldest pastas in the world, but the ancient Norman tower of Hercules is in Cetara. Indulge in fresh seafood and local limoncello while taking in the breathtaking vistas. Check out our Secret Tours section for more information.
In order to reach Amalfi Coast, I highly recommend that you do not rent a car. The trip will only last you 1.5 hours, but parking will be almost impossible during the high season (May to October). Although ferry prices increase during the high season, this is definitely the easiest way to reach Amalfi Coast. Alilauro is a company that operates direct ferries from Molo Beverello Harbor in Naples to Positano or Amalfi once or twice a day.
Book now! Check the prices & info
2. Pompeii
After the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, Pompeii was catastrophically buried under a sea of ash. Visit these ancient ruins to step back in time and learn how this city was frozen in history. The well-preserved attraction includes an amphitheater, an Antiquarium Museum, the Stabian baths, and the Forum. With magnificent frescoes adorning the walls of the houses, this once-bustling town has become a must-see destination for tourists from around the world. Check out our recommended tour of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius in our Secret Tours section below.
The most convenient way to make this day trip from Naples is definitely by train. You have three options to choose from. The most common one is the 35-minute trip on the EAV Circumvesuviana, although it may get a bit crowded during the summer months. If you’re not on a budget and willing to opt for a comfortable seat with air conditioning and fewer stops, take the Campania Express. It’s highly recommended to book your Pompeii entrance ticket in advance, which you can do so here.
Book now! Check the prices & info
3. Capri
The magical island of Capri awaits to enchant you. With its natural beauty and cliffside views, this corner of southern Italy not only provides delicious cuisine, but world-class shopping. Dive into the famous Marina Grande, stop by the iconic Faraglionis, and see the mesmerizing Blue Grotto. You can also visit Via Krupp, a well-known seaside road, or the beautifully eroded Natural Arch. Between whimsical caves and towering cliffs lies one of Italy’s most widely visited attractions. Take a look at our Capri and Blue Grotto tour in the Secret Tours section.
The only way to reach this island is by ferry. Ferries depart from two ports: the Molo Beverello and the Calata Porta di Massa. The ticket costs €15 and the trip lasts about an hour, although you can also take a high-speed ferry for €20.
Book now! Check the prices & info
4. Isle of Ischia
The Isle of Ischia is among the region’s most underrated day trips from Naples. This volcanic island is nestled in the Gulf of Naples, known for its lush gardens and therapeutic hot springs. You can also swim amongst the Roman remains that lie beneath the sea floor at Cartaromana Beach. From here you can spot the Aragonese Castle, connected to Ischia by a stone bridge. For a taste of vibrancy, don’t forget to stop by the busy Piazza Antica Reggia by the docks, lined with shops, bars, and cafés.
In order to reach the Isle of Ischia, you must take a ferry. If you’d like to go for the cheapest option, take the Caremar or Medmar ferry from Naples Porta di Massa. The ferries cost €12.90 while the fastest Alilauro hydrofoil cost €21. However, the journey by ferry takes 1.5 hours while the more expensive hydrofoils take about about 50 minutes.
Book now! Check the prices & info
5. Sorrento
Perched on the Sorrentine Peninsula, I suggest Sorrento as your next-day trip from Naples for several reasons. Firstly, its sweeping water views from high cliffs separate the town from lively marinas. Its vivid square is a popular spot, Piazza Tasso, and the Chiesa di San Francesco, a 14th-century church with an amazing music hall. Among citrus groves and narrow alleyways, you can explore boutique shops or even nearby islands of the Amalfi Coast. Keep an eye out for our favorite tour of Sorrento in our Secret Tour section below.
This seaside jewel is only a 45-minute ferry away from the port of Naples. Although you can also take the train, although this will take you approximately 25 more minutes. Plus, the boat ride is incredibly scenic, with a spectacular view of Mount Vesuvius and other surrounding islands. It’s worth noting, though, that there’s a reduced schedule from November to March.
Book now! Check the prices & info
6. Salerno
Salerno takes the cake for the most underrated pick out of our favorite day trips from Naples. Its beautiful stretch of water sits beside several medieval landmarks, including the majestic Duomo di Salerno. You can also frolic in the Arechi Castle, which provides incredible bird’s eye views of the town. If you’re seeking a dose of history, revel in the artifacts in the Provincial Archaeological Museum of Salerno, which includes countless ancient finds. Lastly, you must savor the local specialty, “sfogliatella,” a delicious pastry with ricotta cheese filling.
The best way to get from Naples to Salerno is absolutely by train. Almost 40 direct and non-direct trains run from Naples’ Centrale station each day, taking about 30 to 40 minutes total. Although tickets for the AV trains can cost up to €17, ticket prices for the direct Regionale trains start at around €6.
Book now! Check the prices & info
7. Mount Vesuvius
Mount Vesuvius rises above the cityscape of Naples. Known for its historic eruption in 79 AD, the active volcano led to the entombment of Roman settlements Pompeii and Herculaneum. With an impressive height of 4,203 feet, the mountain offers enchanting panoramas of Campania and the Bay of Naples. Learn about this incredibly unique geologic wonder by exploring its natural crater. You can opt for convenient bus tours that bring you near the summit, but embarking on the hour-long hike to the top is also a rewarding adventure. Make the most out of your day trip from Naples by booking the Mount Vesuvius tour in our Secret Tour section below.
To reach Mount Vesuvius, take the Circumvesuviana train line from Naples’ Central Station until you stop at Herculaneum. This will take about 30 minutes. Once you’re in Herculaneum, you can take the Vesuvio Express shuttle bus right from the train station every 20 minutes for an extra cost of €10.
Book now! Check the prices & info
8. Monti Picentini Regional Park
If you’re seeking day trips from Naples that are more heavily weaved into the lush Italian countryside, Monti Picentini Regional Park should be first on your list. This pristine natural reserve offers an abundance of hiking trails and varied wildlife. This agricultural oasis of the Campania region features lush forests and natural atmospheres that are impressively serene. Hike up Monte Mai or Monte Terminio, both reaching heights of about 5,000 feet. For a refreshing break in between your trekking, dive into one of the many small waterfalls sprinkled about the trails. Don’t forget to end your day with a scenic picnic atop the mountains!
Renting a car to see Monti Picenti Regional Park is definitely your best bet. From Naples, the trip will last you about an hour and a half. If you’d like to save some money, take the train from Naples Central Station to Battipaglia. Then, take a taxi to the park. This will take about 1 hour and 40 minutes in total.
9. Cilento National Park
For another immersive encounter with nature, embark on a short trip to Cilento National Park. This park’s dense woodlands, lush valleys, and captivating flora all contribute to its varied terrain. Situated just south of the Amalfi Coast, this natural paradise is embraced by the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea and stands far removed from touristy crowds and commercial establishments. Between waves and mountains, a day trip from Naples to Cilento National Park will allow you to achieve peak relaxation.
If you cannot make the almost 2-hour drive to Cilento National Park, your next best option is the train. Board the train in Napoli Centrale and get off at the Vallo Lucania-Castel station. This will take you a total of about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Once you’re there, you can take a 30-minute taxi into the middle of the park.
10. Royal Palace of Caserta
Our final day trip from Naples is the Royal Palace of Caserta. This magnificent grandeur of a structure is often compared with the highly revered Palace of Versailles. Between grand staircases and opulent rooms, you can uncover the rich history of this palace. Its lavish gardens are also unmissable, as they stretch through 11 acres of land and are adorned with fountains and statues. For an architectural
For an efficient 45-minute trip from Naples to the Royal Palace of Caserta, take a bus from the Naples Central bus station at Piazza Garibaldi. The bus ticket prices vary from €1 to €6, depending on the type of bus that you catch. Every 15 minutes, a bus leaves for Caserta. Then you will only have to walk 15 minutes from the bus stop to the palace.
Secret Tours from Naples
Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi
For a mesmerizing tour down the Amalfi Coast, book this time-efficient day trip specially designed for travelers from Naples hoping to make it back the same day. This tour allows you to explore colorful, downtown Positano without the complications and costs of an overnight stay. Additionally, hotel pickup and drop-off as well as lunch on a terrace with sea views is included.
Capri and Blue Grotto
This full-day tour to Capri features a visit to the idyllic Blue Grotto, the famous cove filled with highly reflective, crystalline water. On this day trip from Naples, you will get to see all the highlights by minibus, including the popular “Mamma Mia” road. You will also be able to browse the handicraft stores of Anacapri and soak up La Piazzetta’s buzzing energy. It’s finally your turn to cruise through the island by jetfoil.
Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius
You can’t understand the fascinating history of ancient Pompeii ruins without taking a proper tour. Gain insight into the region’s geology and learn how the catastrophe occurred more than 2,000 years ago. Through this tour, a professional volcanologist will take you on a guided expedition inside Mount Vesuvius’ famous craters. It includes round-trip transportation and the option of a pizza lunch or a wine tasting.
