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Southern Italy Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through South Italy. We've got 628 trips going to South Italy, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 37 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the most tour departures.

250+ South Italy tour packages with 4,067 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Food & Culinary
• Hiking & Trekking

Small Group Tour of Sicily: Highlights (Maximum 8 Guests)

Good communication, excellent guides, easy access to paid sites. Loved the tour and would recommend

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Local Living
• Christmas & New Year

Local Living Italy—Sorrento

Touring the coast was good. A little difficult to navigate if you are older or have some difficulty walking. The lemon farm was a little isolated and a bit of a walk to the road to catch a bus if you wanted to explore the area. The lemon farm had beautiful views. The rooms were nice but needs some upgrading and repairs in some areas. The breakfast was disappointing and some of the food was a little cold. We did not know that you needed to purchase wine from the farm. It was a little overpriced. The owners and staff were very nice people and our tour guide Anna was very nice. I think this tour is more for young people.

Amalfi Coast Experience

This tour was an incredible experience! Our tour guides, Giovanni and Anastascia, were so welcoming, kind and helpful. I enjoyed everything they shared about Italy and the Amalfi Coast. They went above and beyond. The places they took us to were amazing as well- Capri, Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, and Naples. The value of this trip is well worth the cost. Be prepared for a fair bit of walking/exercise. I would highly recommend!

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Sail Italy: Procida to Amalfi

Excellent itinerary and captain RAF made the experience incredible. Fantastic recommendations at every location. Safety oriented on boat yet a confident sailor so we were able to sail in great wind and have an amazing experience. Highly recommend

Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour (Maximum 8 Guests)

I enjoyed my Sicily tour so much! Most of the hotels were comfortable and the food was fantastic! Our guides were very friendly and knowledgeable. The scenery is amazing!

Explore Southern Sicily

I have been traveling for the past 50 years and have visited many countries, I had never taken a tour before my travel mates and I took the the Southern Sicily tour. We chose GAdventures for this trip because the tour group was small, and because the tour visited so many of the major sites in Sicily. We were extremely lucky to have Luca as our tour leader. He was a wealth of information, and his love for Sicily was contagious. Luca took the time to get to know everyone in our small group and that added a personal touch to the tour. I recommend GAdventures tours without hesitation. It was just the best experience!

ROME & AMALFI COAST - 7 Days/ 6 Nights

It was good overall , but I probably won’t go again as felt very rushed ! Felt I only touched these places and can only say I went there but was organised enough to allow enough time to explore but again when you are doing in big group and take travelling time into consideration to cover all places . But Antonio my tour guide was lovely ????

• Coach / Bus

Splendor of Sicily 8 Days Tour - from Catania

This was our 6th bus tour but first for Tourradar. It was excellent because good standard of hotel, which were also centrally located. Was given adequate free time so we were not always rushing. Day start time were good. Included breakfast dinner and some lunch all good Sicily plenty to see wonderful place BUT difficult for group with 3 languages so info was rushed and difficult to follow Plus Tour leader treated up as sheep do not ask why but just follow me and accept. Prefer to be given option eg follow me how long how far and why . Also tourradar excellent response time to questions. Roberto & Debbie

• Coastal Walks

Walking the Amalfi Coast

The walking tour was challenging in a good way. ur stay at Hotel Due Torri was an amazing experience and a brilliant introduction to italian culture, food and way of life, as well as relaxing by the pool after each day's walk. Our guide Paulo was the best, so informative and knowledgeable and patient and encouraging.

New Tour of Sicily from Palermo 10 Days

Went everywhere and most of the included meals were great.

Sicilian Landscapes: Catania-Catania (8 days/7 nights)

On the whole the tour was good though it felt strenuous at times. The guides and driver did a good job coordinating. The most-used hotel was elegant and well located though it did have problems with air conditioning and hot water. The itinerary could have omitted a few stops, in particular a 2 hour visit to a shopping mall. The mix of travelers was fun. We met people from all over the world.

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Sicilian Secrets - Tour of Sicily 8 days 2024

Fantastic tour with a very passionate tour guide.

Best of Sicily - 8 Days (Small Group Tour)

I took the Best of Sicily Tour with TourRadar. We had a small group of 5. It was fantastic. We had a different tour guide each day but one. They were all very knowledgeable, well educated in their fields of study, and answered all our questions and more! They made sure that the restaurants were well aware of those of us with food allergies. Communication with TourRadar and Click Tours before and during the trip was easy and they responded immediately to any questions or concerns. I will use them again!

Sorrento, Pompei, Amalfi and Positano: 4 days escape from Rome

The service and coordination of the trips was excellent and totally seamless. Given the nature of our tour that involved two train trips, pick and drops from railway stations, tours, hotels and ferries. Everything perfectly synced. Capri tour guide Francesco is too good. Polite, knowledgeable and no non sense professional.

Amalfi Coast Walking - Agriturismo

Best tour guide ever = Genarmo! Met some extrordinary people in our group and the hikes were incredible. Italian landscape is nothing short of magical and heavenly.

What people love about South Italy Tours

The tour was wonderful. We had great guides, delicious food, and enjoyed the beauty of Sicily.

Carla was very kind and helpful on our tour

The accommodation was a bit too small but wasn’t as big a deal as we were out for most of the day. Overall, it was an amazing experience and a great way to make new friends!

South Italy Tours starting in:

• Catania (77)
• Naples (64)
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• 3 Week Tours (7)
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• November 2025 (39)

Other Regions in Italy

• Northern Italy (333)
• Central Italy (290)
• Sicily (232)
• Campania (179)
• Amalfi Coast (177)
• Tuscany (177)
• Puglia (126)
• Italian Alps (112)
• Apulia (110)
• Prosecco (110)
• Italian Lakes District (70)
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• Trentino Alto-Adige (64)
• South Tyrol (49)
• The Dolomites (48)
• Lombardy (47)

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International Versions

• Deutsch: Süditalien Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits en Sud de l'Italie
• Español: Circuitos por Sur de Italia
• Nederlands: Zuid-Italië Rondreizen

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Southern Italy and Sicily

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10-Day Italy Tour of Rome, Sorrento, Capri and Sicily

10 days, 1 country and 9 cities

Accommodation

9 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners

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The sun-kissed south and Sicily are the star attractions on this mesmerizing southern Italy trip from Rome to Palermo. Taste local Sicilian wine on the slopes of snow-capped Mount Etna, learn about the ancient Greek heritage of Agrigento and get lost in the medieval cobbled streets of Erice.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

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10 days itinerary trip from Rome to Palermo visiting 1 country and 9 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Pompeii, Capri, Taormina, Agrigento and Palermo with a Local Specialist

Visit the excavations at Pompeii, the ruins of the ancient Greek theater at Taormina, the Valley of the Temples at Agrigento, Erice, Monreale Cathedral

View the fortress town of Enna and Palermo Cathedral

Scenic Cruise to the Isle of Capri

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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Return cruise to the Isle of Capri

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

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Home » Southern Italy Tours

Home » Southern Italy Tours

Southern Italy Tours

Southern Italy tours include the regions located below Rome. Visit the beautiful southern Italian regions Basilicata , Calabria , Campania , Molise , Puglia , Sardinia and Sicily .The most famous Southern Italy vacation destinations are located in the Campania region. Travelers are drawn to the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast . Jetsetters like the Isle of Capri . History buffs visit Pompeii to learn about the ancient Romans and Paestum to learn about the ancient Greeks.

Popular Southern Italy vacation destinations include Alberobello, Lecce and Otranto located in Puglia. Beach goers enjoy Maratea and Tropea located in Calabria. Matera located in Basilicata is another fascianting Southern Italy destination. Among the many destinations attracting tourists to Sicily are its cities Catania, Palermo and Syracuse and its cultural treasures such as Agrigento, Cefalu, Modica, Monreale, Piazza Armerina, Ragusa, Segesta, and Taormina.

Southern Italy’s regions are known for their natural beauty, delicious local food, colorful culture, and lively people. All these contribute to making the area a great destination for an Italy vacation. For more about planning a trip to Southern Italy watch the video and check out the all inclusive southern Italy vacations below.

Southern Italy all include first class accommodations, escorted tours of southern Italy’s sightseeing highlights, most meals, transportation between destinations by luxury motor coach, and much more.

If you think Rome is full of action wait until you travel south of Rome. Southern Italy’s two biggest cities Naples and Bari are on par with Rome’s excitement. Meanwhile sleepy laid-back towns like Lecce, Otranto, Capri, Ravello, Positano, Alberobello entice all visitors.

For more information check out the all-inclusive escorted southern Italy tours below.

Escorted Southern Italy Tour Packages

Southern Italy tours provide unique insight into the area’s long history and rich culture travelers look for on a trip to southern Italy. ItalianTourism.us brings you the largest selection of all-inclusive southern Italy tours. You’ll find the best southern Italy vacation ideas on this page. Below browse the largest selection of the best guided vacations to southern Italy.

These all-inclusive southern Italy vacation packages are great values. Furthermore, ItalianTourism.us guarantees the lowest price on all of the escorted vacations to southern Italy on this page.

You may book your escorted tour of southern Italy land-only. Alternatively, take advantage of the all-inclusive southern Italy tour packages with airfare included. When your trip to southern Italy is booked with airfare then airport transfers are included.

Browse the itinerary below for the best southern Italy vacation ideas. And when your ready to book your journey through southern Italy contact ItalianTourism.us.

8-Day Rome and Sorrento Southern Italy Tour

• Rome – 3 Nights
• Sorrento – 3 Nights

This escorted southern Italy tour travels from to the Sorrentine Peninsula in the Campania region. This Rome and Sorrento tour includes three nights in Rome and three nights in Sorrento.

Begin in Rome where you’ll tour the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. Afterward visit to the Roman Colosseum and Ancient Roman Forum. Then you’ll travel south. In Southern Italy first visit Pompeii for a guided tour the ancient Roman city. You’ll also enjoy excursions to the Isle of Capri and down the Amalfi Coast to Ravello, Positano, and Amalfi.

For more information about this trip click Rome and Sorrento tour .

9-Day Rome and Amalfi Coast Tour by Train

• Sorrento – 4 Nights

This tour begins in Rome and ends in Sorrento. Travel by high speed train from Rome to Naples Then board a bus to travel to Sorrento.

This southern Italy by train tour includes skip the line entrance to the Vatican Museum, Pompeii, excursion to Capri, and aboat cruise excursion down the Amalfi Coast to Positano and Amalfi.

For more information about the Rome and Amalfi Coast tour by train click here .

9-Day Tuscany and Amalfi Coast Tour

• Montecatini, Tuscany – 4 Nights
• Naples – 3 Nights

This escorted trip itinerary includes two of Italy’s most beautiful destinations: Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast.

The tour begins in Tuscany’s rolling hills. There enjoy four nights in the Tuscan Spa town Montecatini.

Afterward, travel to the hills of Southern Italy where you’ll spend three nights in southern Italy’s lively city Naples.

Excursions to Florence and down the Amalfi Coast are included. Furthermore you may join optional tours to Cinque Terre, Siena, and Capri.

For more information click Tuscany and Southern Italy tour .

9-Day Rome, Sorrento, Capri Southern Italy Trip

• Isle of Capri – 2 Nights
• Sorrentine Coast – 2 Nights

This leisurely tour of Rome and southern Italy includes overnights in Rome, Capri, and along the Sorrentine Coast.

The trip begins with 2 nights in Rome.  Afterward travel from Rome to the southern Italian region of Campania. There you will have a total of 4 nights in southern Italy.  First enjoy 2 nights on the Isle of Capri. Then spend 2 nights on the Sorrentine Coast.

For more information click southern Italy tour to Rome, Sorrento and Capri .

9-Day Affordable Southern Italy Vacation: Naples and Puglia

• Naples – 2 Nights
• Bari – 1 Night
• Lecce – 2 Nights
• Fasano 2 Nights

The 9-Day Naples and  Puglia  tour visits Naples, Lecce, Alberobello, Ostuni, and Bari. This affordable Southern Italy Tour begins and ends in Naples in the region of of Campania .

After visiting the highlights in Naples the tour heads to the Puglia region. Puglia’s sightseeing highlights are all included, with nights in Bari, Lecce, and Fasano.

For more information click affordable southern Italy tour .

10-Day Southern Italy Tour: Campania and Puglia

• Castellana Grotte – 1 Night
• Sorrento – 2 Nights

The 10-Day Amalfi Coast , Basilicata , Puglia  tour visits Amalfi, Positano, Ravello, Sorrento, Sassi di Matera and then in Puglia tours Otranto, Alberobello, Lecce, Ostuni, Bari, Trani. 

This all-inclusive Southern Italy Tour begins in Naples and ends in Sorrento, both in the region of of Campania . After visiting the highlights in Naples the tour heads to the Puglia region. Puglia’s sightseeing highlights are all included, with nights in Lecce and Bari.

For more information about this tour of southern Italy click Campania and Puglia tour .

10-Day Rome and Amalfi Coast Tour

• Amalfi Coast – 5 Nights

This Rome and Amalfi Coast Southern Italy tour package travels from Rome to the breathtakingly beautiful Amalfi Coast in the region of Campania. This escorted vacation includes 3 nights in Rome and 5 nights around the Amalfi Coast. 

This Italy vacation to southern Italy explores the roots of western civilization. Enjoy modern day la dolce vita while walking where the ancient Romans invented la dolce vita.

For more information click Rome and Amalfi Coast tour .

10-Day Rome, Puglia, Amalfi Coast Tour

Rome – 2 Nights Alberobello – 3 Nights Sorrento – 3 Nights

This a relaxed and slow paced tour of southern Italy’s highlights. This trip begins and ends in Rome. With 3-nights in Alberobello and 3-nights in Sorrento you’ll have time to enjoy your trip to southern Italy like a local.

The vacation includes southern Italy’s unique destinations including Alberobello, Capri, Positano, Pompeii, Sassi di Matera, and more.

For more information click Rome, Puglia, Amalfi Coast tour .

10-Day Puglia, Basilicata, Campania, Amalfi Coast Tour

• Bari – 2 Nights
• Matera – 1 Night

The 10-Day Southern Italy tour begins in Bari in the region of Puglia and ends in Sorrento in the region of Campania.

The all-inclusive southern Italy vacation itinerary includes destinations in the southern Italian regions Puglia, Basilicata and Campania. You’ll visit Bari, Lecce, Alberobello, Matera, Trani, Sorrento, Capri, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast.

For more information click Puglia, Basilicata, Campania southern Italy tour .

11-Day Rome, Sorrento, Sicily Tour

12-Day Sicily Tour and Southern Italy Tour

Palermo – 2 nights Giardini-Naxos – 3 nights Basilicata – 2 nights Sorrentine Peninsula – 2 nights Rome – 1 night

This Southern Italy tour package travels from Sicily to Rome. You’ll travel far off the beaten path through the unspoiled Southern Italian regions of Sicily, Calabria, Basilicata, and Puglia. Then enjoy the breathtaking views and stunning scenery along the Amalfi Coast, Capri and Sorrento in the region of Campania. Finally the tour ends in Rome.

For more information click all-inclusive Southern Italy tour from Sicily to Rome .

14-Day Small Group Southern Italy Tour

• Minori – 4 Nights
• Matera – 2 Nights
• Monopoli – 2 Nights

This two-week trip includes Southern Italy’s sightseeing highlights. The small group allows for more intimate experiences. The two-weeks allows for a more leisurely pace with no single night stays.

Begin this escorted southern Italy tour in the Campania region. Overnights include the lively city of Naples. Afterward, the tour travels short distance around Bay of Naples to Minori on the Amalfi Coast. There you’ll stay for four nights.

Then, journey through southern Italy crossing the Italic peninsula to Basilicata, where there is an overnight in Matera.

Afterward, the trip continues to Lecce in the Puglia region. Finally the small group southern Italy trip ends in Monopoli. 

For more information click small group southern Italy tour .

15-Day Southern Italy and Sicily Tour with Sorrento, Alberobello, Maratea, and Sicily

• Rome – 2 nights
• Sorrento – 2 nights
• Alberobello – 3 nights
• Maratera – 1 Night
• Taormina – 3 nights
• Palermo – 2 nights

The Southern Italy Rome to Sicily tour is a two-week trip traveling one direction. The tour begins in Rome. The tour ends in Palermo.

The daily itinerary includes escorted tours of the important destinations from Rome to Sicily and points between. This Southern Italy all-encompassing vacation package brings you an authentic southern Italian experience, mixed with history and culture.

For more information click Rome to Sicily tour .

15-Day Southern Italy and Sicily Tour with Sorrento, Alberobello, Reggio Calabria, and Sicily

• Rome – 1 Night
• Alberbello – 2 Nights
• Reggio Calabria – 1 Night
• Taormina – 3 Nights
• Palermo – 2 Nights

Enjoy spectacular natural scenery combined with fascinating architectural remnants from ancient history on the Rome, Southern Italy, and Sicily tour.  The all-inclusive southern Italy vacation itinerary includes free days in Southern Italy’s Alberobello and in Sicily’s famous resort town Taormina.

For more information click Rome, Southern Italy, Sicily Tour .

18-Day Sicily and Italy Tour

• Rome – 2 Nights
• Santa Margherita Liguria – 2 Nights
• Baveno, Lake Maggiore – 1 Night
• Venice – 2 Nights
• Florence – 2 Nights
• Sorrento – 2 Nights
• Alberobello – 2 Nights
• Taormina – 2 Nights
• Palermo – 1 Night

The 18-Day Sicily and Italy Tour is the King of Italy tours. This two week all-inclusive Italy tour travels from northern Italy through southern Italy and finally ends in Sicily.

For more information click Sicily and Italy tour .

For more information about the 2023 southern Italy tours click the links or call ItalianTourism.us today 800-227-1577

About southern italy culture and history.

From the Sassi Matera cave houses to the Trulli huts in Alberobello, to The White City Ostuni, to the Baroque architecture in Lecce, the wild city of Naples and the beautiful Amalfi Coast, Southern Italy has been inhabited since the Stone age .

On your southern Italy vacation, you’ll explore the area’s central position in the story of human evolution through 8000 years of history to modern civilization. History was literally written on southern Italy’s land. Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria and Campania are central in the stories of the  Trojan War , the Punic Wars , and Hannibal’s  journey and conquests, the Normans, Ottomans, and the Romans.

Southern Italy’s destinations mesmerize all tourists. The area’s architecture from the Middle Ages, to Baroque, and Italian Renaissance is beautiful and unique. The area provides a fascinating and unforgettable vacation experience.

Southern Italy Travel Facts

The escorted southern Italy tours include expert guides who will lead you around southern Italy’s vibrant and sometimes chaotic regions. Furthermore expert southern Italy guides will introduce you to the various cultures that inhabited these regions over the centuries. In summary, on an escorted southern Italy trip you won’t miss any sightseeing highlights. You’ll enjoy a worry- and stress-free trip through southern Italy while your tour guide takes care of all the details.

The Amalfi Coast and the Isle of Capri are the most popular southern Italy vacation destinations. Other places to visit in southern Italy include: Alberobello , Bari , Castellaneta, Gargano Peninsula , Lecce , Maratea , Matera , Metaponto , Monopoli , Naples , Ostuni , Otranto , Paestum , Pompeii . Check out the guided tours for more southern Italy vacation ideas .

Southern Italy is the perfect destination for the all-encompassing escorted tour vacation style because it is loaded with historical and cultural sites that are difficult to visit independently. Southern Italy is an ancient land where some of the oldest cities on the Italian Peninsula are located. Further, the region is fertile providing much of Europe with its fruits and vegetables. Check out the southern Italy travel guide for more about visiting this area.

The regions of Basilicata , Calabria , Campania , Molise , and Puglia , are off-the-beaten path Italy tour destinations located in southern Italy.

Naples airport and Bari airport are the most commonly used southern Italy airports. There are some non-stop flights from Naples to the United States. Flying in or out of Bari requires a connection in Europe when flying to or from the United States.

Southern Italy’s weather is generally mild. It is characterized by the Mediterranean climate. The summers are dry and hot. The winters are rainy but mild.

The best seasons to visit southern Italy are Spring and Autumn. From April to June the weather is typically mild to warm. Evening low temperature is around 50 degrees to 60 degrees. Daytime highs average 65 degrees to 80 degrees. September and October are also very nice months to visit southern Italy. Evenings are about 55 degrees and daytime highs are around 75 degrees.

Rome, Florence, Venice

Sicily Tours

Northern Italy Tours

Amalfi Coast Tours

* When all-inclusive Italy vacation prices are quoted to include airfare the price includes fuel surcharges, airport taxes, Italy airport transfers and fees. All prices are per person based on twin occupancy. Italy tours with air & land tour prices apply from the gateway airport. Prices will vary from alternative gateway airports or cities and may be higher. The total price will be emailed to you prior to any deposit being required. Airline baggage fees may apply . Please review all terms and conditions before booking.

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Fearlessly Italy

11 Best Southern Italy Tours: Sea, Food and Ancient History

South Italy is synonymous with sun, sea, and old-world culture. There is so much to do and see, from hiking and kayaking to trying Sicilian cuisine and tasting all kinds of authentic, scrumptious Italian food. There is so much to do, in fact, that it’s hard to know what to take in or even how to schedule one of the best southern Italy tours to catch just the highlights.

That’s why we recommend you book yourself a trip to South Italy. Tours take care of everything for you, including accommodations, activities, and meals. All you have to do is show up and enjoy the ride. To help you choose the right tour for your unique preferences, we put together a list of Southern Italy tours that will help you experience this beautiful country without the stress and difficulty of planning it all yourself.

Table of Contents

Best Southern Italy Tours to Soak in the Sun and Tuck into Local Food

Rome to southern italy by intrepid travel.

You’ll travel by train from Rome to Bari in Southern Italy when you book this tour by Intrepid Travel. The full Italian experience is waiting for you, from exploring historic sites like the Pantheon and the Vatican in Rome and the ruins of Pompeii to hiking through olive groves to staying in an authentic trulli, which is a dry stone hut. You’ll also see all kinds of gorgeous features in the countryside: rolling hills, vineyards, and sunlit villas.

Most of the traveling will take place on a train as you ride from city to city. This mode of transportation will give a lovely few of South Italy as you pass through it. Breakfast is provided for you in the mornings, and lunch and dinner are easy to come by as you’ll be stopping in cities that offer multiple dining options. When you stay in a hotel, you will likely share a room with a fellow tourist of the same sex, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling singly. But as long as you don’t mind sharing, you can enjoy the trip and everything the tour has to offer.

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Rome To Amalfi by Intrepid Travel

On this tour from Rome to Amalfi, you’ll see the sites of Rome and the clear blue South Italian coast. You’ll travel primarily by train, and receive 5 breakfasts and 7 nights in the hotel as part of the tour package. This is a short trip, only seven days, so it hits all the best highlights. You’ll explore famous cultural landmarks and Rome, such as the Colosseum, the Forum, and St. Peter’s Basilica. You’ll also visit Mt. Vesuvius and the ruins of Pompeii. Later, when you reach the coast, the glittering beaches and seaside towns are ready and waiting for you to explore.

When you stay in the hotel, you will likely have to share the room with a tourist of the same sex as you are. One of the best Italy guided tours , this trip is a great way to make friends because you’re going to see and do a lot in a short amount of time with a large group of people. And what better place to make friends than in the bright, friendly environs of South Italy?

Amalfi Coast: Hike, Bike & Kayak by Intrepid Travel

The best way to see South Italy is by walking. This Amalfi Coast tour by Intrepid Travel takes you hiking through the ruins of Pompeii, the Valley of the Mills, and the Path of the Gods. You’ll kayak to “secluded beaches” and visit the island of Capri. For eight days, you’ll experience South Italy the way it was meant to be experienced: through the sun, sand, and sea air.

A favorite biking tour in Italy , this trip includes 7 nights in a hotel and 7 breakfasts. You will have to share a room with another adult of the same sex as you. Keep in mind that there is a lot of physical activity on this tour. If hiking and kayaking are your jam, then it may be the perfect trip for you.

Small Group Tour of Sicily: Highlights by Sicily Activities

Sicily is an island near the tip of the “boot” of South Italy. It has many famous cities and sites which you’ll get to experience when you group on the Small Group Tour of Sicily by Sicily Activities. You’ll travel from Catania to Palermo on a 7-day tour.

Along the way, you’ll embark on walks through cultural centers like the antique villages of Savoca and Forza d’Agro, the filming locations of The Godfather, Ortigia with its Apollo Temple and Archimede Fountain, the Temples Valley, and Palermo with its old churches and the Piazza Pretoria. You’ll go on food and wine tastings to sample authentic Sicilian flavor. Every step of your journey is planned and accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, so you can learn about the historical significance of your surroundings as well as experience it firsthand.

This small tour includes 7 nights in a hotel, 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 1 wine tasting, and 1 dinner. You’ll travel from town to town in a Mercedes Minivan, but there is still plenty of walking involved in the tour, so keep that in mind. This tour is a great option for people who want to take in as much of Sicily as they can in a short amount of time.

Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour by Sicily Activities

If you love food and wine and love trying new cuisine, you should book the Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour by Sicily Activities. This tour will take you from Catania to Palermo in 7 days. During your stops in various locales along the way, including Mt. Etna Villages, Noto, Marzamemi, Ortigia, and Syracuse, you’ll go on food and wine tours to experience the local culture and cuisine. For example, in the traditional Sicilian fishing village of Marzamemi, you’ll eat a fish lunch by the sea. In Palermo, you’ll try Sicilian street food. You’ll be amazed at the color and variety of South Italy’s eats.

As part of the tour package, you’ll stay in a hotel for 7 nights and receive 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 2 wine tastings, 1 dinner, as well as all the other tastings in the itinerary. If you have food allergies, there are Vegetarian, Gluten-free, and Lactose-free options available. If you book this tour, keep an open mind and know that you’re going to be eating and drinking a lot of different foods and wines that are probably foreign to your palate. If a food and wine tour sounds right up your alley, then being able to try new cuisine will be a definite pro!

Explore Southern Italy by Intrepid Travel

South Italy’s historic Roman past comes back to life in this Explore Southern Italy Tour by Intrepid Travel. Beginning on the Amalfi coast with stunning sea views and a favorite destination to include in bucket list road trips , you’ll travel through several ancient towns and learn about the cultures and traditions that were once the law of the land.

You’ll explore the cathedral in the seaside town of Trani, the Roman ruins in Lecce, the olive trees and trullis of Ostuni and Alberobello, and the winding streets of the old cities of Matera and Bari. There is so much of old-world Italy to bear witness to on this tour. You’ll truly get a taste of the majesty of South Italy’s ancient history.

This 10-day tour includes 9 hotel stays, 9 breakfasts, and activities like city walking tours and an olive oil mill visit and tasting. You’ll take several different modes of transportation, including a train, a public bus, and a private car.

You can share a room with a fellow tourist of the same sex, or you can pay extra for private accommodations. Be sure you’re ready to stay active and alert, for there is a lot to do and see on this Explore Southern Italy Tour.

Rome To Sicily By Intrepid Travel

This tour takes you from Rome to Palermo in Sicily in 22 days. The length of time – three weeks – is perfect because there is so much you’re going to take in. You’ll need three weeks to process all of it in your mind. First, you’ll explore Rome and all its historic sites. Then you’ll travel down the Amalfi coast and experience South Italy’s wonders along the way, including Pompeii, Greek and Roman ruins, dormant volcanoes, scenic valleys and hiking trails, and picturesque villages. You’ll end your trip in Palermo on the island of Sicily.

This tour comes with 19 hotel stays, 2 nights in a guesthouse, and 19 breakfasts, as well as all the activities listed on the itinerary. This is a long tour compared to the ones we’ve viewed so far, and there is quite a bit of physical activity involved. If you don’t mind walking to see the beauty of South Italy, then this may be the perfect tour for you.

Taste Of Salento – Authentic Culinary Experience by Soleto Travel

Tour the delicious local food and drink of the Salento region in Italy on the Taste of Salento – Authentic Culinary Experience. At night, you’ll stay at a farmhouse, and during the day your guide will take you to different cities in the Salento region to sample authentic pizzerias, pasta, cheese, fish dishes, and more. All in the beautiful environs of coastal South Italy.

The tour package includes a 6-night stay at a farmhouse in Salento called Masseria, 6 breakfasts and 6 dinners done in traditional Salento style with locally sourced ingredients, 1 wine tasting, 1 oil tasting, 1 picnic lunch, and 1 cooking class taught by an Italian chef. If you have been dreaming about a food-themed Italy trip and your mouth is watering reading our description of the Taste of Salento Tour, you know it’s the right one for you.

Sardinia & Corsica Sailing Adventure by Intrepid Travel

Enjoy sailing, swimming, and snorkeling your way along the South Italy coast on the Sardinia & Corsica Sailing Adventure by Intrepid Travel. You’ll love exploring the clear waters, beaches, coves, and national parks surrounding the Maddalena Archipelago. You will also enjoy the local food and culture in the coastal towns.

This 8-day tour takes place mainly on a yacht, so make sure you’re prepared for sea life before you book. You’ll likely have to share sleeping quarters aboard the ship with some of your fellow tourists. Meals are not included, but you can bring your own or head to town. For boat lovers, this is an incomparable tour of South Italy’s crystalline waters.

Local Living Italy – Sorrento by G Adventures

Taste the local South Italy life when you book your Local Living Italy tour in Sorrento by G Adventures. During this 7-day tour, you’ll stay at a lemon farm that’s close to the Amalfi Coast. You’ll experience the Italian farm life, including learning how to make limoncello liquor and pizza, hike the Path of the Gods, explore the ruins of Pompeii, and visit the island of Capri. This is a fantastic adventure if you are looking into immersing in local life and enjoying an Italy hiking tour .

This tour comes with 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 5 dinners, and accommodations at the lemon farm. You can purchase your other meals in the local coastal towns. You’ll feel like you’re living the genuine South Italy life when you book this interactive tour.

Highlights of Calabria & Sicily by Intrepid Travel

Hit the high points of South Italy on the Calabria & Sicily tour by Intrepid Travel. You’ll experience rich history and view fantastic natural features on this tour. You’ll see the volcanoes of the Aeolian Islands, sulfur springs, the old coastal cities of Sicily, and ancient ruins. Incomparable views, food, and culture await you.

This tour is 15 days long and comes with 14 breakfasts, 12 nights in a hotel, and 2 nights in a guesthouse. You’ll go on a lot of hikes on this trip, so don’t book it thinking you’re going to be able to sit on a beach chair all day. You won’t regret it, though, when you see all of what South Italy has to offer.

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Southern Italy & Sicily From $3,599 pp* Featuring Taormina, Matera and the Amalfi Coast

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Your Tour at a Glance

Tour Activity Level

The activity level for this tour:

You’re a leisurely traveler. You typically take it easy and discover the energy of a new place by people-watching or soaking in the atmosphere at a local café. You can climb at least one flight of stairs, board a coach, and walk unassisted at a relaxed pace for up to 60 minutes without difficulty. You can easily handle altitudes up to 5,000 feet.

You like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can partake in a two-hour leisurely walking tour, covering up to two miles (with included breaks). You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. There may be 1 to 2 days on this tour when walking tours can cover 3 to 4 miles over uneven terrain. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet.

You’re an on-the-go traveler. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

You’re ready to seize the day, whatever it may bring. You lead an active life at home (walking, biking, and half or full day hikes are things you may enjoy) and 10,000 steps a day is normal for you. You can handle longer walking tours (more than 3 hours covering 3+ miles at a steady clip) and activities that involve traversing uneven terrain, steep slopes, standing for periods of time, and varying altitudes and temperatures. You don’t mind being on the go with some early starts, late-nights, and full days. You can handle altitudes of 9,000 feet or higher with little to no issue. This level is not appropriate for travelers who use wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility assistance devices.

Southern Italy & Sicily featuring Taormina, Matera and the Amalfi Coast

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The extension style for this tour:

Independent

You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager part of the time, for some guided excursions. The rest of the time, you’re at leisure to explore the destination your own way.

You’re not accompanied by a Tour Manager during your extension stay. You’ll access locales you wish to visit on your own, and are free to create your own adventure.

Traveler Reviews

From $3,599 pp *

12-13 Days • 16-20 Meals

Review on 12/30/2023

Review on 12/22/2023

Thank you for your review! We look forward to traveling with you again soon.

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Thank you for your review!

We are pleased to hear you had a great time on our Discover Southern Italy & Sicily tour! Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us, we hope to see you again soon!

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Discover Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're sorry to hear you experienced a flight cancellation in route to tour. All out of pocket expenses during the delay can be submitted to the travel insurance for reimbursement.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're sorry to hear you were disappointed with your tour manager. A member of the Guest Relations Team will be reaching out to discuss your feedback.

Fun trip lots of food

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're very happy to hear you had a wonderful time on tour.

Southern Italy great - Rome not so much

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Discover Southern Italy & Sicily tour with the Rome extension.We're sorry to hear you were disappointed with the Rome extension. Your feedback will be reviewed by the Product Design Team so that the overall touring experience for our guests can be improved.

a little bit a little bit of everything in Italy.

Packed with history and sceniery., nice trip, but some of the included were not very good.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're sorry to hear you experienced issues with some of the included meals. Your feedback will be reviewed by our Product Design Team so that the overall touring experience for our guests can be improved.

Sicily Southern Italy

No room for one girl, beautiful locations, difficult terrain., it was a wonderfully organized and executed tour with superior guides., great guide and great trip , extraordinary trip, all our hopes for this trip were answered..

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy and Sicily tour. We're very sorry to hear about the issues you experienced with your cancelled flights. A member of the Guest Relations Team will be reaching out to discuss your feedback.

Collette provides exceptional service.

Great trip. was not impressed with palermo or hotel garibaldi., the sicily and southern italy trip is a delight everyday, sicily and southern italy in october.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're sorry to hear about the issues you experienced with the some of the hotels and included meals. Your comments will be reviewed by the Product Design Team so that the overall touring experience for our guests can be improved.

Spectacular vistas, great food, covered alot of Italy & Sicily.

I enjoy traveling with colette because they handle all the details.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're very sorry for the issues you experienced with some of the hotels on tour. Your feedback will be reviewed by the Product Design Team so that the overall touring experience for our guests can be improved.

Some of the hotels and food need to improve...

Beautiful southern italy & sicily trip, amazing sicily and southern italy explored., fabulous, rethinking booking collette tours for myself or my clients..

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. Thank you for taking the time provide us with your review of the tour. We're very sorry to hear about the issues you experienced with the itinerary and the hotels that were used for this departure. Your comments will be reviewed by our Product Design Team for Italy so that the overall touring experience can be improved. We did speak with your sister Amelia today as well regarding her experience on our Italy's Treasures tour.

The trip was a great and fun experience.

Our 3rd collette tour didn’t measure up to previous 2 tours.

Thank you for traveling with Collette on our Southern Italy & Sicily tour. We're very sorry to hear you had such a disappointing experience on tour with us. A member of the Guest Relations Team will be reaching out to discuss your feedback.

Wonderful, informative, and thoroughly enjoyable combined holidays.

Beautiful, busy tour, the trip was ok. the next time i travel it will be on a more personal iten, it was a nice trip. quick views and visits of places., excellent organization for a memorable tour, very good/helpful customer service, tour guid was very good could have used more relaxing time.

Thank you for traveling with Collette to Southern Italy & Sicily. We're sorry to hear about the difficulties you experienced on tour. Your feedback will be reviewed by the Product Design Team in order to improve the overall touring experience for our guests.

Best trip ever!

Southern italy and sicily, daniel was the best tour guide ever he took great care of all of us., we love collette.

Very good tour

Great tour, great tour guide, just what a bus tour should be., beautiful country and knowledgeable, wonderful tour manager, very enjoyable trip.

Thank you for traveling with Collette to Southern Italy & Sicily. Your feedback will be reviewed by our Product Design Team in order to improve the overall touring experience for our guests.

Thank you for traveling with Collette to Italy. Your feedback will be reviewed by the Product Design Team in order to enhance the overall touring experience for our guests.

An amazing trip with beautiful scenery like The Amalfi Coast. Breath taking

Spectacular, our tour almost made me wish i was born italian, sicily is an interesting country and we saw the best of it., everything was superb, very good tour..

Thank you for traveling with Collette to Southern Italy & Sicily. Your feedback will be reviewed by the Product Development Team.

Out of This World!

Tour needs refinement, collette is the best, professional, informative, delicious.

Thank you for traveling with Collette to southern Italy and Sicily. A member of the Guest Relations Team will follow up with you.

Efforts should be made to negotiate early openings for breakfasts.

We saw all the things we were interested in, in scicily and the amalfi coas, so. italy, leave the driving to collette.

Thank you for traveling with Collette to southern Italy and Sicily. Your feedback has been forwarded to our Product Development Team. They will use your comments to enhance this tour for our future guests.

Exceptionally one of the best vacations!!

Thank you for traveling with Collette to Italy. A member of the Guest Relations Team will be reaching out to you to discuss your feedback. 

Thank you for traveling with Collette to southern Italy & Sicily. All feedback is influential in addition to being an important means through which we work to improve our product, service and customer satisfaction. We are grateful for your business and hope to see you again on another Collette tour.

Try another tour group!

Thank you for traveling with Collette to southern Italy & Sicily. A member of the Guest Relations Team will be reaching out to discuss your feedback. 

Excellent trip.

Well organized, try touring off season. it is a great experience., don't miss sicily and southern italy tour, outstanding in every way, great vacation - would tour with collette again, worth the trip, wonderful trip....can't wait to book another collette tour.

Hello, thank you for sharing this feedback with us about the pace of the tour.  We have passed this along to members of our team for review.  We appreciate you and value your insight as it helps us to improve our tours for future guests. We look forward to traveling with you again soon. 

Well organized tour -

Recommend the tour for others with a few changes., outstanding tour., would use collette again..

Hello, thanks for bringing this to our attention.  We have shared your feedback with our team and they will review it and use it to improve the tour for future guests. If you'd like to share more about your experience, we'd be happy to set you up with a call with our guest relations team. 

Stressful, rushed and too much time on a bus

Hello Karen, Thank you for bringing this to our attention.  A member of our guest relations team will be reaching out to you to learn more about your experience. 

Hello Archie, thank you for bringing this to our attention.  We have forwarded your feedback to members of our product and tour management team for review.  They'll use your insight about the tour elements to improve the experience for future guests.   If there's anything else you'd like to share with us, we'd be happy to set up a call with our guest relations team.  Please let us know if you'd be interested in speaking with them. We appreciate your business and look forward to traveling with you again soon. 

Friendly tour director

Sicily and souther italy is a wonderful scenic tour with lots of history, a little disappointed.

Hello Cynthia, we appreciate you bringing this to our attention. We have passed along your feedback about your experience with the flights and other accommodations on tour to members of our team for review.  Your insight is valued and appreciated as it helps us to improve the tours for future guests. If there is anything else you wish to share about the tour, please feel free to reach out.  We look forward to traveling with you again soon!

We enjoyed the tour.

Hello, thank you for sharing this feedback with us about the tour manager. We have passed this along to members of our team for review.  We appreciate you and value your insight as it helps us to improve our tours for future guests. We look forward to traveling with you again soon.

I have booked 2 more trips with you and hope to see improvement.

Spectacular views of sciliy and so. italy., i would say the tour was just "okay." wouldn't recommend it..

Hello Bonnie, Thanks for bringing this to our attention.  We have shared your feedback about the first part of your trip with our team for review.  They will use your insight to improve the tours for future guests.  

Overall very good holiday. very dissapointed with thw airline carrier

I have traveled on 7 (other companies) tours, but collette was the best, great tour guide. great itinerary. did not deal with office direct....ou..., good service by collette.

Hello Steven, Thanks for bringing this to our attention.  We have sent your feedback over to our product team to make sure the info is correct for future guests.  We appreciate your business and hope to travel with you again soon. 

Excellent service by Collette US

Good customer service, but flight arrangements didn't allow enough time in ...

Pace of entire trip was excellent. older group was greatly considered. nice..., great trip, entertaining, informative, fun; good value., good service by collette us, very helpful service., enjoyable trip--could have had a little time on the bus, amazing tour. the tour guide, monica, was fantastic. very professional and..., wonderful trip, loved the experience., a great trip i would do it again in a minute..

Is there anything you would like us to pass along to our product team that you were not particularly satisfied with?

Collette's Sicily and Southern Italy tour is the best tour to see so much in 10 days!

The tour manager will make or break the trip, sicily and southern italy..

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Exploring the Charms of Southern Italy: South Italy Tours

• Post author: Team
• Post published: October 15, 2023
• Post category: Italy Tours

Italy is a country that offers myriad experiences, each unique and captivating in its own way. And when you venture south, you find an area rich in tradition, scenic beauty, and culinary wonders. At Italy Luxury Tours, we specialize in South Italy tours that explore the irresistible charm of this part of the country. Our Southern Italy tours are your gateway to a magical world where the sea meets the sky. Ancient ruins tell stories of a bygone era, and every meal is a celebration of life!

What are the regions of Southern Italy?

Exploring Southern Italy is like opening a treasure chest filled with jewels, each more dazzling than the last. Each region—from Basilicata to Sicily—has its own unique charm, history, and natural beauty that captivate every traveler’s heart. Whether you’re an adventure junkie, a history buff, or a culinary enthusiast, Southern Italy offers an experience that’s perfect for you!

Let’s delve deeper into these mesmerizing regions to better understand what makes each one a must-visit destination:

Located in the instep of Italy’s boot, Basilicata is often overlooked but is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty. Whether it’s the ancient cave dwellings in Matera or the pristine beaches along its coastline, Basilicata offers a variety of experiences for every traveler. Take a step back in time as you visit ancient cave dwellings, or head straight to national parks that offer opportunities for hiking and spotting rare flora and fauna. Our South Italy tours can be designed to include what you want to discover!

Known for its diverse landscapes, Abruzzo offers everything from snow-capped mountains to beautiful coastlines. It’s an excellent location for hiking and skiing, and its unspoiled beaches are perfect for summer getaways. The region is also famous for its national parks, where you can encounter native wildlife. Our Southern Italy tours ensure you experience the rich biodiversity and ancient history of this region.

Campania is home to the world-famous Amalfi Coast, with iconic places like Positano and Amalfi itself offering jaw-dropping views of the Mediterranean Sea. But let’s not forget Naples, the birthplace of pizza, and the historical ruins of Pompeii. Our South Italy tours in Campania offer an ideal blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

From the unique trulli homes of Alberobello to the crystal-clear waters of the Salento area, Puglia offers a diverse landscape filled with historic towns and delicious cuisine. It also boasts a rich agricultural heritage, evident in its olive groves that stretch as far as the eye can see. Southern Italy tours in this region often include wine tastings and culinary experiences that you won’t want to miss.

South Italy tours in Calabria are perfect for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Situated at the toe of Italy’s boot, this is a region of rugged beauty. Enjoy water sports off the Jasmine Riviera or go hiking in The Sila National Park. Venture inland to discover the region’s mountainous terrain, perfect for hiking and even winter sports. If you’re a history buff, explore the numerous castles, churches, and ancient ruins scattered across the region.

One of Italy’s least-visited regions, Molise offers a glimpse of unspoiled Italy. Known for its rolling hills and medieval castles, it provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Molise is home to several archaeological sites and ancient ruins that transport you back in time. The tranquil countryside is perfect for long walks, and the region’s farm-to-table cuisine ensures you’ll eat well during your stay.

Famous for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, Sardinia offers an exquisite coastal experience. But it’s not just about sandy beaches and clear waters—it’s also rich in history and culture. Explore the ancient ruins of the Nuragic civilization or immerse yourself in unique traditions and festivals. Our South Italy tours in Sardinia might just make you want to move there!

Known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, Sicily offers a unique blend of cultures and cuisines. You can visit Greek temples, Roman amphitheaters, and Norman castles—all in one day. From the historical ruins of ancient civilizations to the active volcano Mount Etna, our Southern Italy tours cover the must-see spots of this captivating island!

Why choose Italy Luxury Tours?

We take pride in crafting private tours of Southern Italy that are as unique as you are. Imagine diving in the azure waters off the Sicilian Coast or sampling Salento’s world-famous wines. With year-round temperate weather, our Southern Italy tours are ideal for nature enthusiasts. We offer unique experiences such as hiking tours of the Jasmine Riviera or sailing excursions along the coastline.

When you choose Italy Luxury Tours, you’re choosing a personalized, luxury experience. Our guides give you their undivided attention, ensuring your trip is memorable for all the right reasons.

We recognize that each traveler has individual preferences, desires, and requirements. That’s why we are committed to working closely with you to tailor your tour to match your specific needs. Whether you want to focus on historic landmarks, coastal vistas, or culinary adventures, we’re here to make your dream vacation come true!

Traveling with family? No worries! We offer Southern Italy tours designed to be engaging and enjoyable for travelers of all ages. Our family-friendly activities and accommodations ensure that everyone—whether young or young at heart—will have an enriching and unforgettable experience.

Your journey begins here.

Ready to explore the South of Italy like never before? With Italy Luxury Tours, you’ll experience the region in all its grandeur and intimacy.

Book your Southern Italy tour today to unlock a world of hidden gems—from Pompeii’s ancient ruins to the Amalfi Coast’s breathtaking views. Your journey through Southern Italy is waiting, and it’s one you won’t soon forget. Call us at +1 (855) 539 0045 to start planning your unforgettable Southern Italy tour with us!

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The Best 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Planning a trip to southern Italy? You’ve come to the right place. This is the ultimate 10 days in southern Italy itinerary.

Southern Italy is a captivating region known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. It boasts ancient ruins, picturesque coastal towns, and –best of all — delectable pizza.

Southern Italy offers all the pleasures of la dolce vita you’ll find elsewhere in Italy. But it has a slightly more Latin twist. For centuries, it was shaped by Arab, Greek, and Spanish domination.

At its most basic, southern Italy consists of four regions: Campania, Calabria, Puglia, and Basilicata. There are also the islands of Sardinia and Sicily, worlds apart in their own right.

The south boasts a rich array of art and architecture and sites that you simply won’t find in northern Italy — the whitewashed towns and olive groves of Puglia, the sensual drama of Naples, the stunningly beautiful of Capri, or the ancient eerie allure of Matera.

On top of that, you’ll find ancient Greco-Roman ruins, dazzling Baroque churches and towns, and Byzantine sites.

The food is also insanely good in southern Italy. It’s one of the great joys of visiting. Naples is the birthplace of pizza. In general, there’s a strong emphasis on fresh farm to table ingredients and seafood.

I just spent almost 3 weeks in southern Italy. So, I am ready to hand over the best 10 day southern Italy itinerary with some must know tips.

Overview of 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Here’s a snapshot glance of what you can see with 10 days in southern Italy.

Day 1 : Naples

• Day 2 : Pompeii & Vesuvius or Capri
• Day 3 : Positano
• Day 4 : Amalfi & Ravello
• Day 5 : Matera
• Day 6 : Matera, stop in Martina Franca on the way to Ostuni
• Day 7 : Ostuni
• Day 8 : Polignano a Mare & Monopoli
• Day 9 : Alberobello
• Day 10 : Lecce

More Time ?

If you have more than 10 days in southern Italy, you could spend more time in Naples at the outset or more time in Puglia at the end of your trip.

The towns of Trani, Brindisi, or Bari in Puglia are all well worth visiting. You could also head further south to the sizzling island of Sicily.

If you want to spend a bit more time on the glamorous Amalfi Coast instead, here’s a way to tweak this southern Italy itinerary:

• Day 2 : Pompeii & Vesuvius
• Day 3 : Capri day trip from Naples
• Day 4 : Positano
• Day 5 : Amalfi Town & Ravello
• Day 6 : Matera
• Day 7 : Matera
• Day 8 : Polignano a Mare
• Day 10 : Ostuni & Monopoli

Bases & Tours For A 10 Day Southern Italy Itinerary

For this southern Italy itinerary, I would recommend 4 bases. You could base for 2 days in Naples, 2 days in either Positano or Ravello, 2 days in Matera, and 4 days in Puglia.

For Puglia, I think the best bases are Ostuni, Monopoli, or Polignano al Mare. They are centrally located, have cute centro storicos , and have train stations if you need them. If you are visiting in summer and want a beach, you might opt for Monopoli.

If you don’t moving around a bit more, you could also stay in a trulli in Alberobello for a 1-2 nights just to have the experience.

Puglia is fairly easy to drive around. Just don’t plunge into the centro storico of any city or town. I would pick up a car on the way out of the Amalfi Coast. Before that, I would use trains, private transfers, buses, or ferries to get around.

Best Hotels:

Here are some hotel recommendations, based on hotels I’ve stayed in or checked out myself.

Naples : Eurostars Hotel Excelsior , T he Britannique , G rand Hotel Vesuvio

Positano : Palazzo Mur a ,   L a Sirenuse ,  I l San Pietro ,  H otel Poseidon

Ravello : Hotel Caruso ,  Hotel Villa Cimbrone ,  Palazzo Avino ,  V illa Maria

Matera : Sextantio Le Grotte , Aquatio Cave Hotel & Spa , Palazzo Gattini

Polignano a Mare : Hotel Grotta Palazzese , Giovi Relais

Ostuni : Hotel Relais La Sommita , Paragon 700 , Masseria Le Carrube

Monopoli : Hotel Don Ferrante , Palazzo Indelli

Alberobello : La Mandorla Luxury Trullo , Trullo Essenza-Trulli Anti Charme & Relax , Romantic Trulli

You might also consider staying in a “masseria” in the Puglia region. They are fortified farmhouses that have been transformed into luxury hotels with large rooms.

I stayed at Masseria Il Melograno (near Monopoli) and Masseria San Domenic o (near Ostuni) when I was touring Puglia. San Domenico is one of the world’s best small luxury hotels and was just stunning!

Best Tours:

Here are some of the top tours you will want to book in advance:

• half day tour in Naples with an archaeologist
• Pompeii entrance ticket
• Amalfi Coast boat tour
• Path of the Gods guided walking tour
• Amalfi vespa tour
• Matera tour with cave visit
• Alberobello walking tour with trulli visit
• Ostuni walking tour
• Lecce walking tour

10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

This south of Italy road trip starts in Naples and ends in Lecce.

Naples should be the starting point for any trip through southern Italy. From the airport, you can taxi or book a private transfer to your hotel.

Naples is the region’s capital and a vibrant, sometimes overwhelming, city. Naples lives by its own rules and has no discernible tourist gloss. It can be a a chaotic assault on the senses.

So, you’ll have to take the gritty with the pretty. But, with its long list of marvels, Naples will please those looking for culture, history, and pizza. For every dirty street, there’s a sumptuous Baroque church.

With only a day in the city, you could follow my one day in Naples itinerary .

I advise spending most of your time in the historic center around Spaccanapoli. The old center is teeming with tiny lanes, ancient palazzi, pizzerias, and ornate churches.

Some of the must see churches include Gesu Nuovo, the Cloister of Santa Chiara , Sansevero Chapel, and the Duomo di Napoli .

Sansevero is a stunning over-the-top Baroque chapel filled with exquisite Baroque sculpture. It’s a must see, but always sold out.

Be sure to  b ook a timed entry ticket  online well in advance. Alternatively, if tickets are sold out, you can  book a walking tour  that includes a visit to the chapel.

In Capodimonte and the National Archaeological Museum , Naples has two of Europe’s greatest museums. Art lovers should go to the Capodimonte for its large cache of top rate Renaissance and Baroque art. Those going to Pompeii should get a preview of its treasures at the archaeological museum.

In high season (May to September), I advise  booking a skip the line ticket for the archaeological. museum. I took this  private tour  of the museum with an archaeologist and loved it! 

Day 2: Pompeii & Vesuvius

On day 2, visit Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius from Naples. In Pompeii, explore the well-preserved ancient city buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. 

Walk through homes, baths, theaters, temples, a brothel and the forum. Don’t miss the beautifully restored frescoes in the House of Menander, the House of the Vettii, and the Villa of Mysteries.

Stroll along the historic streets, imagining life in this bustling city over two thousand years ago. 

After Pompeii, head to Mount Vesuvius. The imposing volcano overlooks the Bay of Naples.

Embark on a hike along the trail and enjoy breathtaking views. Reach the crater’s edge and witness the power of nature that once engulfed Pompeii.

Vesuvius is also known for its wineries. And you can book a winery tour and lunch there.

At a minimum, for day 2, you’ll need to book a  P ompeii entrance ticket , a Mt. Vesuvius entrance ticket , and perhaps a  private transfer to Pompeii .

I also advise booking a  3 hour tour to Pompeii with an archaeologis t  to get the complete historical backdrop. You can also book a  f ull day tour to both Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius . 

For more information and must know tips for visiting, here’s my  complete guide to visiting Pompeii .

Day 2 Alternative: Capri

If you’ve already been to Pompeii or just prefer a scenic island, spend day 2 in Capri. You can take the ferry from Naples or book a Capri day trip from Naples .

Capri is one of the most dazzling and seductive islands in the Mediterranean. You’ll be delighted with Capri’s soaring cliffs, shimmering emerald water, whitewashed towns, and historic landmarks.

Capri has two adorable towns, Capri Town and Anacapri. Capri Town is the more glamorous of the duo.

In Capri Town, you can go upscale shopping on Via Cammarelle. Or hike along the coastal trail or up to Villa Jovis.

In Anacapri, you can visit the beautiful Villa San Michele, hike to belvederes or tour the Blue Grotto. Capri is also beautiful as seen from the water, so a boat tour or visit to the Blue Grotto is magical.

Here are some of the tours you might consider in Capri:

• boat tour of Capri
• 6 hour Blue Grotto visit and walking tour
• private boat tour with Blue Grotto
• cooking class with wine pairing
• tour of Capri Town, Anacapri & Blue Grotto

For more information and tips, you can check out my 2 days in Capri itinerary .

Day 3: Positano

One day 3, head to the pretty-in-punk pastel town of Positano. You can book a private transfer from Naples to get there.

Start your day in Positano with a stroll along Spiaggia Grande, Positano’s main beach. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront. 

Take in the vibrantly colored umbrellas and crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. If you’re up for it, take a refreshing dip in the sea or rent a lounge chair and relax on the sun-kissed sands.

If you enjoy hiking for views, you will want to hike the the Path of the Gods. This scenic trail offers panoramic vistas of the Amalfi Coast and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. You can do it yourself and book a private transfer to Bomerano (where the trail starts) or take a guided tour . 

After taking in the vistas from the Path of the Gods, descend back to Positano. Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at one of the local trattorias or cafes.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Admire its beautiful dome and stunning Byzantine-style mosaics. 

Explore the charming alleys and narrow streets of Positano. They’re lined with boutique shops, artisanal craft stores, and local art galleries.

Positano is known for its stylish clothing and beautiful ceramics. Pottery spills out on virtually every nook and cranny of the town. 

The best views of the sea-tumbling houses are from the top of Via Christoforo and Via Pasitea.

As the sun begins to set, find a spot at one of the cliffside bars or restaurants with panoramic terraces. Sip on a refreshing cocktail or sample some ice cold limoncello as you watch the sunset.

For dinner, reserve at a restaurant with cliffside views. Options include La Sponda at La Sirenuse Hotel, La Terrace in Hotel Eden Roc, Maestro’s in Villa Treville, or Il Tridente at Hotel Poseidon.

Day 4: Amalfi & Ravello

On day 4, visit the towns of Amalfi and Ravello. You can take the bus, the ferry, or go on a guided tour from Positano .

Like Positano, Amalfi Town is carved into a cliff and houses seem to tumble down to the sea.

The main attraction in Amalfi is its gorgeous cathedral. It’s a heady blend of Byzantine, Romanesque, and Moorish styles.

The exterior is covered in mosaics and has a loggia with Moorish arches. A dramatic steep staircase leads to the entrance through the Cloister of Paradise.

The cloister is lovely — filled with frescos, statuary and ancient sarcophagi from Paestum. From there, you can wade through the reliquaries and artifacts in the Diocesan Museum and inspect the cathedral itself. For more information, you can check out my complete  guide to Amalfi Cathedral .

If you are interested in ancient trades, you can also check out Amalfi’s Paper Museum. Amalfi was a major producer of handmade paper in medieval times.

The museum is housed in a 13th century paper mill. Guides will demonstrate how paper was made using traditional methods and machinery.

Have a walk through the piazzas and charming back streets of Amalfi. Then, head up to Ravello.

You can hike up via the Valley dei Ferrierre trail or the ever-so-steep Ravello Challenge. Or you can take a bus or taxi.

Ravello is a tiny town. But it’s chock full of high quality ceramic shops. It has a lovely cathedral and two magnificent medieval villas.

Villa Rufolo is in the Piazza del Duomo next to the cathedral. Its main draw is its magnificent gardens. From the Wagner Terrace, you have stunning views of the Amalfi Coast.

Villa Cimbrone is even better. It’s the epitome of romance.

The grounds are filled with crumbling follies, ancient statuary, rose gardens, and wisteria pergolas. Its belvedere, the Terrace of Infinity, offers up the best panoramic vistas on the entire Amalfi Coast.

For more information on these two towns, you can check out my one day in Amalfi Town itinerary and my 2 days in Ravello itinerary .

Day 5: Matera

On day 5, pick up your rental car and head to Matera. Matera is one of Italy’s most alluring sights, thanks to its sassi cave dwellings. It’s the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city at 9,000 years old.

The town looks and feels ancient. It was definitely one of my favorite spots in all of southern Italy.

There are approximately 3,000 cave houses and 150 cave churches. Once the “shame” of Italy, they are now renovated and a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can even stay in a cave hotel!

The best way to see it all is to book a walking tour of the sassi . You can also book a private tour or a food and wine tour .

If you want to do it on your own, the two sassi districts (Barisano and Caveoso) can be accessed from several points in town including from Piazza Vittorio Veneto, Piazza Duomo, and Piazza San Francesco. You’ll see signs. The main drag is Strada Panoramic dei Sassi.

You’ll also want to visit some cave churches. The most impressive is the 10th century Santa Maria d’Idris.

It’s perched on a hill and offers up great views of the sassi . Inside, there are some lovely medieval frescos to admire.

Just south of the church is a cave museum, the Casa-Grotto di Vico Solaria. You can even see the “mangers” for the donkeys and pigs that once lived inside.

You can also check out some of Matera’s other museums: MUSMA (contemporary scupture), Muse Nazioinale Ridola (archaeology finds), or Museo d’Arte Medieval e Moderna (sacred and contemporary art).

In the evening, take a leisurely walk along Via Ridola. It’s a charming street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Stop for dinner at a cozy trattoria and sample the local dishes like orecchiette pasta, lamb, and delicious cheeses. I had delicious meals at Baccanti and Ristorante Burro Salato.

Day 6: Matera To Puglia

Spend your morning in Matera. Begin your day with a visit to the Matera Cathedral. The entrance is in a side street.

Marvel at its impressive architecture, adorned with intricate details and frescoes. There’s even a cave-like nativity scene. And you can climb the bell tower for great views of the gorge.

Explore the adjacent Piazza Duomo and take in the panoramic views of the Sassi districts from the belvedere.

In the afternoon, head out to the town of Martina Franca on the way to Ostuni in the region of Puglia. It’s about a 1:15 drive from Matera to Martina Franca.

The town is built on a hill overlooking olive groves and has an appealing historic center. It’s dominated by the Palazzo Ducale in Piazza Roma. Another main square is the Piazza Plebiscito, home to a beautiful Baroque church.

Have lunch at Trattoria Sant’Anna or Trattoria Pizzeria del Corso. Then, it’s just a 30 minute drive to Ostuni.

Ostuni is one of Puglia’s most appealing hilltop towns, known as the “White City.” It’s a historic settlement that spans three hilltops.

Settle into your accommodation and take an evening stroll through the city.

It’s a maze-like tangle of up and down streets that you’re sure to get lost in. Head to the scenic viewpoints in Ostuni, such as the Belvedere Santa Lucia or the Terrace of Sant’Oronzo, for breathtaking panoramic views.

Have dinner at Taverna della Gelosia or Osteria Ricanatti.

Day 7: Ostuni & Monopoli

In the morning, visit Ostuni’s Spanish-influenced Gothic cathedral. Marvel at its impressive facade and step inside to admire the beautiful interior with its ornate decorations and stunning frescoes.

You could also visit the Archaeological and Civic Museum. It’s a small museum with some interesting artifacts dating back to Paleolithic times. The must see exhibit is the pregnant “mother of the world,” from 28,000 years ago.

But the real joy of Ostuni is just wandering the whitewashed streets. There are flowers at every turn, even a few cats.

I had a delicious lunch at Cielo. it’a an atmospheric place with whitewashed vaulted ceilings.

In the afternoon, drive to the seaside town of Monopoli. It’s a fascinating seaside town with charming narrow streets, a magnificent cathedral, and some great trattorias.

It’s less touristy and has a more lived in feel than towns like Matera or Albrobello. The Monopoli Cathedral is a real must visit. I took shelter in it during a rainstorm, so got to inspect it pretty closely.

In the early evening, take a stroll along the Lungormare. Admire the classic Apulian blue and red fishing boats. There’s an old defensive tower, which you can climb for views.

Enjoy an aperol spritz in Piazza Garibaldi. Then, grab some fresh seafood at one of Monopoli’s many restaurants. I enjoyed La Locanda Sul Porto and Gaia Osteria Popolare.

READ : One Day In Monopoli Itinerary

Day 8: Polignano a Mare

On day 8, head to Polignano a Mare, a timeless beauty. It’s a picture perfect whitewashed village that seems made entirely of limestone.

The town’s winding streets are lined with flowering plants. The town offers incredible views over the Adriatic Sea.

Via Roma is the main drag. It’s chic and chock full of chic shops, eateries, and gelato shops.

But the back streets are adorable too. You’ll see poems written on some of the walls and steps.

Polignano is best known for the inlets and coves carved into its shoreline.

The most famous of these is right in the center of town, the Lama Monachile Beach. The Grotto Palazzese is a tiny masterpiece that’s home to a cave restaurant and 5 star hotel.

Taking a stroll along the Lungomare Domenico Modugno or the Longomare Cristofero Columbo makes for good viewing. The first one is where you’ll find the famous statue of Volare, the singer songwriter and a Polignano native.

You might consider taking a boat cruise through the coves, a boat cave tour , or a street food tour while in Polignano.

I was in Polignano for a few days so I was able to sample some of its fabulous restaurants. I had fine meals at Osteria dei Mulini, Restaurant Antiche Mura, and Specchie Sant’Oronzo. Even the street food cafe, at Olio su Pane, was delicious.

READ : One Day In Polignano a Mare Itinerary

Day 9: Alberobello

Alberobello is an incredibly unique and picturesque town in Puglia, known for its iconic trulli houses. Trulli are round stone buildings with conical gray slate roofs. Alberobello has over 1500 of them.

If you can ignore the crowds, the town has a real fairytale vibe, almost like a fantasy film set. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before.

The trulli are spread out along the eight streets of the Rione Monte. Some of them are adorned with astrological or astronomical symbols on the roofs.

The best way to see them is from one of the town’s many belvederes. There are especially good views from Belvedere Santa Lucia and from the belvedere on the left of the Piazza del Popolo. You could also book a guided walking tour of the trulli.

Afterward, make your way though the labyrinth of streets of Alberobello. You’ll come across the best known trulli — Trullo Sovrano and the Trullo Siamese.

Be sure to head to the Rione Ain Piccola. It’s a more authentic and less trafficked area with nearly 400 trulli .

Alberobello is also a fun place to take a guided food tour , an e-bike tour with foccacia tasting , or a cooking class .

I had the best focaccia I’ve ever tasted at Enoteca Regionale (made with burnt flour) and learned how to make mozzarella at Mimmo’s trullo.

If you want, you could spend half of the day 9 in Alberobello and half of the day in the cute neighboring town of Locorotondo.

The unique circular town boasts narrow streets, whitewashed houses with sloped roofs called cumerse , and intricate balconies adorned with colorful flowers.

Be sure to see Palazzo Morelli, with its eye catching carved portal. The main church is San Giorgio.

It’s a beautiful Baroque church with an elegant facade and a stunning rose window. Step inside to admire the ornate interior, with its intricate altars and Neapolitan frescoes.

In the Marziolla district, you will find another fascinating collection of trulli .

Day 10: Lecce

Polish off your 10 days in southern Italy with a visit to lavish Lecce. It’s Baroque jewel known as “the Florence of the South.”

It’s also called the “City of Churches” and the “City of Gardens.” To visit the city properly, you can book an architecture tour , zip around on a rickshaw tour , or go on a street food tour .

Lecce is a maze of narrow streets. Its nerve center is Piazza del Duomo.

The square is a stunning architectural ensemble with the magnificent Lecce Cathedral, Palazzo Vescovile (Bishop’s Palace), and the Seminary (which has a beautiful cloister and bell tower). It’s especially lovely in the evening when its lit by floodlights.

The Duomo has an extravagant, highly chiseled facade. It was built by the principal architect of the city’s Baroque transformation, Giuseppe Zimbalo.

If you proceed down Via Vitttorio Emanuele II, you will arrive at Santa Maria del Rosario. It’s Zimbalo’s last and finest work.

The other main square is Piazza Sant’Oronzo to the east. In the southern part of the square, you’ll find the sunken remains of a Roman amphitheater. it was built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century.

At the square’s heart is the Colonna di Sant’Oronzo. You’ll also see two other gems, the 16th century Sedile and the Church of San Marco.

From this square walk north on Via Umberto to see the magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce. It’s the apotheosis of Lecce’s frenzied Baroque architectural style.

Santa Croce showcases intricate carvings, ornate decorations, and a facade adorned with mythical creatures, dragons, angels, and other symbolic motifs. It is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Italy .

In the early evenings, join the crowds at Piazza Sant’Oronzo for an apertivo . Try a glass of Salice Salentino , a renowned and robust local wine, at Caffe Alvino. There are also some good win bars on Via Umberto.

The city brims with rustic restaurants serving up hearty southern Italian food. Check out Crianza or la Vecchia Osteria da Totu.

More Than 10 Days in Southern Italy?

If you have more than 10 days, you have several options.

If you are a city person, I would spend more time in Naples at the outset of your trip. The city takes awhile to get under your skin and there are just so many attractions.

You could also spend more time eating your way through Puglia. The towns of Molfetta, Trani, Brindisi, and Otranto are all well worth visiting.

Another idea is to head further south to Sicily. To do this, you could fly out of Bari Airport or Brindisi Airport to Palermo or Catania.

For ideas on what to do in Sicily, you can check out my blog post on five ways to spend one week in Sicily . I also have itineraries for Syracuse , Trapani , Catania , Taormina , and Palermo .

If you are feeling a bit bushed after 10 days in southern Italy trip, perhaps you just want to lounge on a beach in Cefalu or Taormina.

Alternatively, ruin lusters can explore the island’s fine Greco-Roman ruins in Segesta , the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento , Syracuse Archaeological Park , or the Villa Romano del Casale .

Tips For A 10 Days In Southern Italy Itinerary

Here are some other must know tips for spending 10 days in southern Italy.

1. How To Get To Southern Italy

You’ll want to fly into Naples. It has its own international airport, NAP. It’s also known as Capodichino Airport. 

From the airport, you can take a taxi or  book a private transfer  to your hotel. You can also book a  private transfer from Rome , if you fly in there.

Naples also has a major train station that’s well connected to other cities, Napoli Centrale. 

2. When To Visit Southern Italy

The general rule to to avoid July and August. These are the hottest, most expensive, and busiest months.

This is especially true on the island of Capri and in the Amalfi Coast. I was also told Matera can get up to 120 degrees in summer.

Late April/May is a delightful time to visit. Everything is lush, festooned with flowers, and landscapes look like fresco paintings.

The weather stays good until about late October. So, a fall visit is also a good choice.

3. How To Get Around Southern Italy

For the part of your itinerary centered on Naples and the Amalfi Coast, I wouldn’t get a car. I would use the extensive network of buses, trains, and some private transfers.

The road along the Amalfi Coast offers one of Italy’s most famous drives. But the road is difficult, with hairpin turns and heavy traffic. Plus, rental rates are high. I personally wouldn’t want to drive there.

In general, however, the train system in the south isn’t as good as the north. So, once you depart the Amalfi Coast, I think it makes sense to pick up a rental car for the rest of your trip.

Driving in Puglia is pretty straightforward. The roads are reasonably well maintained, except for small rural roads where you will find potholes. And the traffic is less heavy than more popular places like Tuscany.

4. What To Eat In Southern Italy

Southern Italy is a foodie paradise. The region boasts fresh ingredients, sun-ripened produce, bold flavors, and magical herbs.

Naples is the birthplace of pizza. As Julia Roberts said in the movie Eat, Pray, Love , it’s easy to have a “relationship” with it.

Neapolitan pizza has a thin, soft, and slightly chewy crust. The sauce is made from the delicious crushed San Marzano tomatoes.

In the Amalfi Coast, everything is made with lemons — limoncello liqueur, lemon cakes, lemon delight, lemon pasta, and lemon flavored pastries.

The pasta specialities are scialatielli and ravioli caprese . Scialatielli is a type of homemade pasta that is typically served with a flavorful seafood sauce.

You’ll also find an abundance of fish and seafood — mussels, clams, tuna, octopus, shrimp, etc.

In Puglia, the burrata and mozzarella is impossibly smooth and creamy. It’s usually served with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.

You’ll also find some of the freshest vegetables I’ve ever tasted. The zucchini, artichokes, and eggplant are all delicious.

The homemade pasta is to die for. In Puglia, the specialty is orecchiette . It’s a small ear-shaped pasta. It is often served with a variety of sauces, such as broccoli rabe, cherry tomatoes, and anchovies.

Another thing to try is focaccia barese . It’s a delicious variation of the classic Italian flatbread. The bread is generously topped with cherry tomatoes, olives, oregano, and olive oil, creating a burst of flavors in every bite.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 days in southern Italy itinerary. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources.

• 3 day itinerary for Rome
• 5 day itinerary for Rome
• 3 day intinerary for Naples
• 1 day itinerary for Vatican City
• 3 day itinerary for Florence
• 2 day itinerary for Venice
• 1 day itinerary for Milan
• 1 day itinerary for Siena
• One week in Umbria
• 10 days in Italy itinerary
• 10 day itinerary for Tuscany
• 12 ways to spend 1 week in Italy
• 2 weeks in Sicily itinerary

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Last Updated on June 20, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

The Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the vibrant city of Naples and the awe inspiring views of the Amalfi Coast, to the traditional Italian towns of Puglia and Sicily’s beaches, volcanoes and cuisine, it’s time to plan the ultimate southern Italy road trip!

When it comes to road trips, a journey through southern Italy offers a chance to see a combination of spectacular scenery, traditional towns and epic natural wonders. One minute you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii, the next you’re driving along the heart-stopping roads of the Amalfi Coast.

You could spend a few days exploring Puglia’s prettiest towns including Monopoli and Ostuni, before spending the rest of the week enjoying the crystal waters in Sicily .

There’s a variety of cuisines to sample too, with incredible pizza in Naples, seafood pasta in Puglia, tasty olive oil and Sicilian delicacies including arrancini and sweet cannolis.

Oh and you’ve got a mix of activities on offer too. Hike active volcano Stromboli in Sicily , take a boat trip to the glamorous island of Capri , stay in a traditional Trulli house in Alberobello or go on a pizza tour of Naples (it’s a hard life!)

And the best part about a southern Italy road trip? The fact you don’t have stick to a set route. While you could follow my southern Italy itinerary on the map below, I’d encourage you to read my travel tips and then add a few stops of your own. It’s a beautiful part of the country – you could find yourself passing fields of olive trees or winding along dramatic cliff roads. You never know what you’ll find!  

Rather than create one epic Italian road trip, I’ve divided the country in two! Read on for my southern Italy road trip or check out my route for an amazing northern Italy road trip , which includes stops in Rome, Verona, Venice, Lake Como and a few other beautiful spots. 

Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

This south of Italy road trip starts in Naples and ends in Sicily – both of which have plenty of flight options available. Italy self-drive holidays are growing in popularity, and it’s easy to see why with routes like this one!

From eating pizza in Naples, to feeling like a movie star as you drive the Amalfi Coast, and then onto some of the prettiest towns in Italy as you explore Puglia, before finishing your enjoying Sicily’s dramatic landscapes, this route has it all! It’ll definitely show you some of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy too.

It’s also an easy one to break up – you could just concentrate on Naples and Amalfi, or spend a week exploring Puglia. These are some of my favourite parts of Italy, so I’m excited to share why they should be on your Italy road trip itinerary. I’d recommend a minimum of one week in southern Italy, but if you want to cram in everything on this blog, I’d suggest two to three weeks.

I’d also recommend taking a look at my guide to the best hidden gems in Italy too – you might find a few other stops to visit while you’re touring southern Italy.

Southern Italy Road Trip Map

I’ve used a map to plot the perfect route for your Southern Italy road trip . I recommend opening it another window to study in detail!

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list. I’ve also included lots of must-haves at the end of this post, to make the process much easier!

Southern Italy Road Trip: Stop 1 – Naples

Once you’ve exhausted northern Italy , it’s time to head south on your Italy road trip. The unspoilt shores of the southern coastline will appeal to travellers who like to explore off the beaten track.

First up, the bustling streets of Naples. Set on the Mediterranean coastline with active volcano Mount Vesuvius as its backdrop, this exciting city is the birthplace of Italian pizza, mysterious underground catacombs, castles and lively main squares.

If you choose to stay in Naples for a few nights, you could take day trips to the Amalfi Coast, hop on a boat to the island of Capri or tour Pompeii’s archaeological sites. There are lots of amazing southern Italy tours to choose from!

Southern Italy Road Trip: Stop 2 – Amalfi Coast

If your idea of the perfect Italy road trip is immersing yourself in glitz and glamour of old-time Italy, the Amalfi Coast is for you. With cliffside villages, colourful buildings and secluded beaches which lead to the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea, it’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited in Italy. It’s also known for being one of the best Italian road trips.

Brace yourself if you’re the designated driver! The coastal road is winding and not for the faint hearted, but the views are worth it. Don’t miss the picturesque towns of Praiano, Ravello, Sorrento and Positano – a classic holiday resort with an old-world grandeur and panoramic views along the coast.

If you plan to stay a few nights, Sorrento is a good choice. With museums, piazzas, shopping and reasonably priced accommodation on offer, it’s a great base from which to explore the towns along the coast and visit the island of Capri. I’d recommend reading this guide to where to stay in Sorrento during your trip planning!

I did some of this road trip in reverse last summer and ended in Amalfi Coast before driving to Naples and fly home. We booked a last minute night at one of the hotels in Vietri Sul Mare, a town close to Salerno, right at the start of the coast. It was a basic hotel, but I still dream about the views regularly – looking out over that incredible blue water and the beautiful town and beach. I’d go back in a heartbeat! 

Southern Italy Road Trip: Stop 3 – Puglia

Puglia is where we chose to go on our main holiday last year. Similar to this southern Italy travel itinerary, we hired a car in Naples and drove across the country to Italy’s heel. Driving in southern Italy wasn’t too scary, although some of the smaller towns and villages have narrow roads, so I’d recommend hiring a compact car. 

Puglia is pretty, traditional, and has a great reputation for food. It’s one of my favourite parts of Italy. Home to unspoilt sandy beaches and cliffside fishing villages, Puglia is often overlooked in favour of glam places like Amalfi or Cinque Terre, but I think it offers a lot.

You could spend a few weeks just in Puglia, and still have plenty more to go back for, as there are gorgeous beaches, pretty towns and lots of history to keep you busy!  A few places I’d recommend visiting are Alberobello, with its traditional white, cone-shaped Trulli houses (which, collectively have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site ). We spent a night staying in one and it was absolutely magical.

We also stayed in Monopoli – a beautiful seaside town with a small beach, medieval city walls and maze-like cobbled streets fulled with tiny wine bars and rustic restaurants.

Polignano a Mare is one of the most famous towns, and another absolutely stunning spot. With it’s cove like beach, dramatic cliffs and even a cave restaurant built into the rocks overlooking the water, I fell in love with the place! We spent a day there, eating fresh seafood pasta and gelato while meandering the pretty streets.

Ostuni is another must-see (and one of the best hidden gems in Italy ). It’s known as the white city, and from afar has the appearance of lots of white houses stacked up on top of each other. Park somewhere outside the old city and wander up the hill, taking in the magic of the white washed buildings, cute pizzerias and architectural wonders. 

If you’re planning a trip to Italy and interested in discovering Baroque architecture as well as having lively nightlife, street food and café lined piazzas, venture to Lecce, one of Puglia’s largest cities. Or consider a trip to Bari or Gallipoli – both great stops on your Puglia road trip. If you’re having trouble choosing where to stay, check out the 11 best luxury villas in Puglia .

Southern Italy Road Trip: Stop 4 – Sicily Itinerary

As you can see, the drive from Puglia to Sicily is a long one. You could do it in a day, but you might be more comfortable breaking it up over a few nights. The fastest ferry route to Sicily is from Reggio Calabria and it takes around half an hour.

This is one of the best parts of the itinerary, so there’s a chance you may want to book a dedicated holiday for your Sicily road trip, as there’s so much to see and do. Adventure lovers might want to climb Mount Etna. Over 3500m high, you can get pretty high up with minimal effort, as there’s a cable car to get you up to 2500m!

In terms of beauty, Taormina is one of the prettiest hilltop towns in Sicily. It’s home to a theatre built by the ancient greeks, several historic churches, and pretty streets filled with colourful market stalls and restaurants.

It’s also a gorgeous region for hotels, with everything from cute boutique hotels to grand resorts. My guide to the best beach resorts in Sicily will help you pick where to stay!

Nature lovers will enjoy bird-spotting in the reserves, or you can spend time enjoying the sandy beaches of picturesque Cefalu or Mondello.

It doesn’t seem long ago that I spent a week sailing around Sicily’s Aeolian Islands – something I’d recommend in a heartbeat if you have a bit longer to spent in the region. I hiked Stromboli Volcano, took a mud bath on Vulcano island, and went wine tasting in Salina. The islands are gorgeous, varied and have a wonderful old world charm that I found very comforting.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Southern Italy?

Italy has a Mediterranean climate and is a lovely destination to visit all year round.

Temperatures vary by region, but as a quick example, you can expect average temperatures of around 0°C in around Cortina (a ski resort in the mountains) in January, and as high as 37°C in July in cities such as Milan and Venice. Temperatures in the south remain mild in winter, making destinations like Puglia and Sicily great options for a winter holiday.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit southern Italy, I’d suggest planning a trip between April and June, or in September or October, just after the peak summer season.

The weather tends to be consistent in these months, but isn’t too hot. Plus, as you’re missing peak season, you should benefit from lower prices and fewer people.

Packing List For Southern Italy

Now you’ve got your route planned out, it’s time to decide what to pack! Here are a few quick suggestions of what to take, with some links to specific items I’d rate picking up before you travel.

Women’s packing list for Southern Italy

Women’s lightweight trousers – It’s good to have some conservative items and not flash too much skin. These are practical, lightweight but a bit cute too! Women’s sundress – Something pretty and not too short for when it’s appropriate. Women’s maxi dress – I quite liked having a longer item or two. If you pair it with a cardigan it’s more conservative too. Women’s midi skirt – I live in items like this in warm countries and have them in multiple colours and patterns. They’re comfortable and not revealing.

Women’s shorts – I packed a few pairs. I’d recommend something loose and comfortable like these shorts , and then perhaps some classic denim shorts too. Women’s summer top – I wore a lot of things like this. Neutral colours work best as you can mix and match with shorts and skirts. Plus, you can dress them up or dress them down! Women’s zip up hooded jacket – A few places get chilly, so you’ll want to be able to layer up occasionally. A zip up hoody like this will come in handy. Women’s bikini – You’ll need to pack a couple of items of swimwear. There are so many cute bikinis out there to choose from! Women’s rash guard – Not essential, but if you burn easily (or plan to surf) I’d recommend one of these. This one is great as it has a built-in bra and comes with a pair of matching shorts. Women’s sports vest – I’d recommend one or two sweat-absorbing vests like this for adventurous activities. Women’s sports bra – Ideal for sporty or adventure activities. I prefer sports bras like this Under Armour one which has some built in padding for extra support. Women’s leggings – Leggings are great for active adventures. These Under Armour ones are great as they’re very lightweight. Sarong – A really useful item for any travels in warm countries! Use it as a towel, a cover up, to sit on, to lie on or for a cute addition to an outfit! Sun hat – You’ll definitely want a sun hat to protect yourself. Sunglasses – I’ve owned a pair of these Ray Bans for a few years now and love them!

Men’s packing list for Southern Italy

Men’s casual shorts – I’d recommend several pairs of comfortable shorts for everyday use. Men’s chinos or jeans – I’d recommend a few pairs of chinos, jeans or cargo pants. Men’s T-shirts – Pack a few options of t-shirts too. Men’s shirts – A few shirts (long or short sleeved) are a good idea. I personally love these linen shirts . They look very cool!

Men’s vests – If you sweat a lot, you might find vest tops more comfortable in the heat. Men’s zip up hooded jacket – You might want to layer up if it gets chilly in the evenings. Men’s jumper – A smarter option for keeping warm.   Men’s sports tops – For active days, something like this is really useful as it’s super-absorbent. Men’s sports shorts – If you’re doing some adventurous hikes or activities, you’ll want shorts you can move freely in. Swimming trunks – The more fun the pattern, the better! These ones have pockets and are quick dry too. Baseball cap – Look for one with a mesh back like this one , so it’s more breathable. Sunglasses – You can’t beat a classic pair of these Ray Bans !

Other general items to pack for Southern Italy

If you’re planning your trip, you should think about more than just clothing when you start packing. Here are a few items I’d recommend adding to your suitcase…

Insect repellent – There are plenty of really good insect repellents like this one . If you’re travelling with kids you might want to buy a specific children’s insect repellent too.

Bite relief – I usually take an after bite / anti-itch cream like this , that helps to soothe any bites. I also swear by this amazing Bite Away Pen , which sends a small electric shock to the itchy part of the bite. It takes a bit of getting used to at first (and sometimes hurts a tiny bit), but it does work. I’ve done a full review of the item (as it goes everywhere with me!!) so feel free to read more here . 

Travel towel – A fast-drying microfibre towel like this one will come in handy on your trip. These are great not only for when you fancy a swim, but also when you want to sit down on the ground or to wipe your sweaty face on a humid day!

Sun cream – It’s important to apply suncream throughout the day. I’d recommend finding a brand which isn’t too heavy on chemicals, or is almost totally natural, like this one made by Sun Bum . 

Sunglasses – It’s important to protect your eyes when you visit a holiday destination like this one. I’d recommend investing in some high-quality UV protected sunglasses. I’ve owned a pair of these Ray Bans for a few years now and love them!

Sun hat – You’ll definitely want a sun hat like this to protect yourself on all of those sunny days!

After sun or aloe vera – Don’t forget some soothing cream incase you do burn. I really like this one made by Ultrasun . It’s lightweight and feels lovely on your skin.

Rain jacket – Be prepared for those sporadic rain showers. As you won’t need it for warmth, I’d recommend a lightweight waterproof jacket that packs down small. Something like this would be perfect.

Umbrella – I’d also recommend an umbrella for rainy season. I’d been looking for a super compact option for ages, and finally found this one which fits in my small handbag and is nice and sturdy.

Daypack backpack – I used a small backpack for day-to-day adventures, which could fit a water bottle, camera, sun cream and bug spray. I also took a small shoulder bag to use for going for dinner in the evenings. If you’re looking for something nice and small, lightweight, water-resistant and that will fit all your essentials, I’d recommend this daypack . It’s got some very handy zip-up pockets too!

Reusable water bottle   – I always recommend packing a reusable water bottle for travel. Even if you can’t drink the tap water, it means you can top up from giant bottles or water coolers rather than buying lots of plastic bottles. Personally I’d recommend the  Chilly’s water bottles . I’ve got a few in different sizes and they are excellent quality! I also really like these bottles with straws . They’re really easy to drink from, they have a strap, never leak and hold a good volume.

Power bank – It depends how much you use your phone on holiday, but I used mine a lot during my trip, snapping photos and videos along the way. A portable battery pack is a great idea so you don’t have to worry about running out of charge at an important moment.

I have a few made by Anker and they’re great quality and have lasted for a long time. This is the one I’m using at the moment , which is really small (similar size to my phone) but stores lots of charge and has a fast charging capability. 

Plug adapter – I pack this universal travel adapter for all of my travels. It charges multiple items at once, using plugs or USB and can be used anywhere in the world. It’s one of my fave travel gadgets!

Dry bag – I’m really happy I invested in a dry bag like this . It’s made from a thick plastic and is totally waterproof. These dry bags are perfect for adventures on the water, visiting waterfalls, or if you think it’s going to rain heavily. I’d recommend a small one for your phone and camera gear, or a larger one if you want to use it as your main bag for an activity.

Waterproof phone case – Similarly, if you want to take your phone out and about in the water, I’d recommend getting a waterproof phone case. There are quite a few to choose from, but I’d recommend reading the reviews! You need this to protect your phone and be 100% watertight after all! I bought these Moko cases myself and my partner and they’ve been great. We’ve used them on several trips snorkelling and to waterfalls now, and no leaks!

I hope you’ve enjoyed my southern Italy road trip itinerary. Let me know where you decide to go and what your highlights are! As mentioned, this is probably best spread out and followed at a slower pace, so if you’re looking for a southern Italy itinerary for 14 days, it’s ideal!

Looking to explore more of the country? Check out my northern Italy road trip itinerary ! 

I honestly think this is the best south Italy itinerary as it’s got a bit of everything. If you want to save it to help with your trip planning, how about pinning it for later… 

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

1 thought on “The Ultimate Southern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More”

I haven’t been to Italy since I was a teenager! Now I’m trying to figure out why it’s hasn’t been higher up my list?? Those pictures make me want to be there now! Thanks for the inspiration and the tips! ?

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Whether it’s old-world traditions and wonderful culture, cuisine, history, fashion or natural beauty, Italy is special to many people for different reasons. Few other countries boast so many legendary cities. There are also many charming hill towns and coastal villages that showcase Italy’s amazing natural beauty. From the big cities to the small towns, there is always something exciting to see in Italy. With so many reasons to visit, the rest is up to you!

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Destination must-see's.

Cinque Terre:

Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, which means that it is a valuable and protected place on earth. Feel like you have stepped back in time when you visit this collection of colorful medieval villages sitting high on the edge of the sea.

Visit a place that was frozen in time in the summer of A.D. 79. Soak in 2,000 years of history at the excavated ruins of Pompeii as a local expert provides you with a detailed view of this incredibly preserved archaeological site.

The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built and perhaps one of the most recognizable places on the planet. It sits right in the center of Rome and was constructed by emperors of the Flavian dynasty. Imagine being there in its day!

Go off the beaten path to see the Castello Sestiere area with a local guide and get to know authentic Venice. You’ll be able to walk canal by canal through streets lined with historic buildings and old churches. See how the locals live every day with each step you take in this unique city.

Destination Must-Do's

Get a Taste of Sicilian Street Food:

Each region of Italy has its own dishes of renown, and Sicily has a rich street food culture. Chickpea fritters (panelle), fried potato croquettes (crocchè) fried risotto balls (arancine/arancini), and cannoli are just some of the items you may find while sampling the local fare.

Tour Lucca:

The fascinating medieval city of Lucca is surrounded by 16th-century Renaissance walls. Choose to see it by bike or on foot, but either way will bring you to see the Cathedral of San Martino, the Piazza Napoleone and the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, all sites you simply should not miss.

Visit Capri:

On a beautiful day, take a boat trip from the stunning Amalfi Coast to the lovely Mediterranean island of Capri. There, a local expert will bring you on a tour of a dreamy place that can only be described as paradise on earth.

Drink wine:

Just about anywhere you go in Italy, you’re going to encounter fantastic wine. Whether you’re in Tuscany, Stresa, Piedmont, Umbria or any other region of this beautiful country, taste the wine. Buy a few bottles and bring it home to enjoy with friends and family.

Expert Advice

Some of what you think of as traditional Italian foods are actually American interpretations and not widely available there. Some examples are heavy cream sauces such as alfredo, spaghetti and meatballs, and chicken parmigiana (however, you may find these items in more tourist-oriented restaurants).

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Italy from North to South: 10-Day Classic Tour

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From prestigious architecture to breathtaking art, natural beauty to captivating history, your 10-day classic Italy tour celebrates the layers of wonder from north to south. Wander the elegant lanes of winding through Capri, glide through the Venetian Lagoon to visit famous islands, and embrace the ancient life of Rome. From Renaissance Florence to seaside Sorrento, you will indulge in the simple pleasures of Italy’s classic belief in la dolce vita .

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Venice - arrive in fascinating venice.

Venice is a city of marbled splendor and boldness rising out of the lapping lagoon. The Grand Canal winds between the elegant palaces and inspiring churches as boats maneuver through the narrow passages. The city has a sense of regal charm and epic grandeur stemming from centuries of power as a prestigious republic. Your flight will land at Marco Polo Airport, where your transfer will meet you upon arrival. Settle into the comforts of your hotel in the heart of Venice, and begin to explore the city at your leisure.

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Venice - Discover Venice and the Venetian Islands

Your exploration of the Venetian Lagoon will begin with a tour of Murano, Burano, and Torcello islands. Glide across the water to reach Murano, an island famous for its history of glass and glassblowers. Visit the charming canals and lace-making history of Burano and the ancient cathedral of Torcello with stunning mosaics. Continue with the city’s highlights, from the Rialto Bridge to Teatro la Fenice. In Saint Mark’s Square, you can bask in the church’s golden glow where the mosaics span the walls and ceiling.

Florence - Travel to Florence for a Walking Tour

After breakfast, transfer to the train station for your quick trip to Florence. The Renaissance city captures a golden age of art, science, and philosophy surrounded by the quintessential Tuscan hills. The city is irresistible, overflowing with charming boutique shops and preserved medieval lanes. Your tour will take you on an introduction to the city with your expert guide revealing the soaring dome in the Piazza del Duomo and the elegant Ponte Vecchio bridge. In Piazza della Signoria, you can find the regal figure of Neptune crowning the fountain beside the distinguished Palazzo Vecchio.

Florence - Discover Charming Pisa and Lucca

You will travel outside of Florence for the day to enjoy a different perspective of Tuscany in Pisa and Lucca. Your guide will first lead you to the impressive Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa, home to the captivating Leaning Tower. The structure tilts nearly four degrees and features a distinctive marble design that accentuates the neighboring Cathedral and Baptistery. In Lucca, you will find remnants of the past from the Romans to Napoleon. The walls continue to protect the town, reaching nearly 40 feet tall. Guinigi Tower soars above the historic center crowned with trees that tell a story.

Rome - Venture to Rome and Walk with the Ancients

Continue to Rome with a transfer escorting you from the train station to your hotel. Rome is layered with so much to explore, as each section reveals another level of history. From Roman ruins to the rise of Christianity, the Renaissance to the present day, this clash of ancient and modern is endlessly engaging. Your guide will meet you at your hotel to lead you through the remarkable cityscape to find the iconic highlights. The Colosseum may take your breath away with its sheer scale, with exterior walls standing 157 feet tall and dating back nearly 2,000 years before you step into history at the Forum.

Rome - Witness the Vatican and its Museums

The Vatican is an impressive collection of masterpieces, from the piazza designed by Bernini to St. Peter’s Basilica that was crafted by Michelangelo. Your guide will lead you to the inspiring borders of one of the world’s smallest countries to explore the museum galleries. Artifacts will share a timeline of Mediterranean history with rich details from ancient Greece to medieval Europe. Inside the Sistine Chapel, you can bask beneath the exceptional artistry of Michelangelo that shares Biblical history surrounding the central figures of the Birth of Adam.

Sorrento - Bask in Sorrento’s Mediterranean Charm

Your train ride to Naples will frame the charming landscape as you travel south. Arrive for a quick transfer from the station to your beautiful accommodations in Sorrento. You may have a panoramic view of the seaside as you soak in the Mediterranean ambiance. The scent of lemons drifting from the nearby groves mixing with the sea breeze may drift off the Bay of Naples. Craggy cliffs frame the town giving Sorrento the feeling of seclusion and exclusivity. Piazza Tasso brims with locals and visitors enjoying the boutique shops and sampling the simple pleasures of la dolce vita.

Sorrento - Embrace Capri and the Sorrentine Coast

The island of Capri has enchanted ancient emperors and Hollywood stars alike who wished to escape the bustle of daily life. You will take a boat to the island to find the stunning cliffs jutting out of the sea nearly 200 feet tall and contrasting the glittering blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. From the elevated Piazzetta, you can enjoy the aroma of espresso drifting from the cafes while offering a stunning panorama of the shoreline below. Boutique shops and restaurants line the narrow cobbled lanes and lead to the treasured Gardens of Augustus and Villa San Michele.

Sorrento - Enjoy the Famous Amalfi Coast

A full-day tour of the Amalfi Coast will engage all your senses as you uncover the fabulous history and celebrated scenery along the famous 25-mile stretch of coastline. You will start in Amalfi, where you can find a wide staircase in the main square leading to the Cathedral entrance. Bronze doors from 11th-century Constantinople continue to welcome visitors. At Ravello, you may find an impressive view along the coastline from the Villa Cimbrone’s Terrace of Infinity. When you reach Positano, you can bask in the aromas of the lemon trees and follow the narrow lanes winding up the cliff.

Sorrento - Depart for Home

Sorrento has gained notoriety, not just for acting as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast but for its charming culture and beauty in and of itself. In the morning, cafes may open to the aromas of brewing espresso and freshly baked cornetti. The shops along the quiet streets will open, and the Museo Correale dei Terranova will open to galleries featuring an assortment of artifacts ranging from the 16th to the 19th centuries. Your transfer will meet you in the hotel lobby when you are ready and escort you to Naples International Airport for your flight home.

Trip Highlights

• Discover the grandeur of the Vatican Museums and the wondrous atmosphere inside the Sistine Chapel when viewing Michelangelo’s masterpiece
• Witness the majesty of glassmaking on the famous island of Murano during a tour of the Venetian Lagoon
• Embrace the splendor of the Amalfi Coast on a tour of the celebrated shoreline to view stunning towns like Amalfi, Ravello, and Positano
• Experience the beauty of the Renaissance and the preserved charms of Florence when viewing the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio
• Visit Pisa to view the stunning list of the infamous Leaning Tower, as well as the grandeur gained from the city’s former naval prowess
• Wander through the streets of ancient Rome with a guide to witness the splendor of the Colosseum and Roman Forum
• Enjoy the glistening charms of St. Mark’s Basilica when discovering Venice’s highlights on a guided tour
• Indulge in the Mediterranean charms of Capri, an island famous for its natural beauty and established luxury

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Places to Visit in South Italy

15 Best Places to Visit in South Italy

Southern Italy is a vast region that contains the provinces of Abruzzo, Apulia, Basilicata, Campania, Calabria, Molise and Sicily – Sardinia is also sometimes included in this region but this island has less in common with the rest of Southern Italy and has differing culture and traditions. This region of Italy has been inhabited by many different civilisations since antiquity including the Greeks, Romans, Etruscans, Arabs, Normans and Byzantines. This diverse inhabitation is mainly due to the regions accessibility from the Adriatic, Ionian and Mediterranean seas.

In terms of tourism, Southern Italy has some absolutely magnificent offerings including beautiful stretches of dramatic coastline, picture perfect beaches, charming coastal islands and a plethora of historic cities and towns. Possibly the best known region is the gorgeous Amalfi coast and La Cinque Terre; this area on the Mediterranean coast is regarded as one of the most beautiful in Europe. Furthermore, cities such as Naples, Lecce and Palermo have some iconic historical sites including the Castle Nuovo, the Basilica di Santa Croce, and Palermo Cathedral that are waiting to be explored. With so much to offer, a trip to Southern Italy can be a true adventure.

Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in South Italy :

Located on the western coast of Southern Italy, Naples is one of the largest and most productive of Italy’s metropolises and accounts for a large percent of the countries economy.

This city has a huge commercial and public port and watching the various container ships and cruise liners entering the docks is certainly impressive.

Furthermore, Naples has a myriad of historical sites such as the domineering Castle Nuovo and the San Gennaro Catacombs.

Moreover, Naples is in close proximity to the legendary ruins of both Pompeii and Herculaneum, and in the shadow of the epic volcano Mount Vesuvius – these three sites are all must see attractions when visiting this region of Italy.

Lecce is lovingly known as the Florence of the South due to its plethora of opulent historical structures.

Located in the far south, this city is the main hub of the region and is also famed for its beautiful light Lecce Stone that has been used to create most of its structures.

Important sites include the beautiful Basilica di Santa Croce, the Cattedrale dell’Assunzione della Virgine, Lecce Castello and the ancient Roman Amphitheatre.

Furthermore, Lecce has several distinct and gorgeous squares such as the Piazza del Duomo and the Piazza Sant’Oronzo.

If historical buildings are not your thing, you can always relax in the sublime Villa Comunale gardens, or see the excavations of the Faggiano Museum.

Bari is a fantastic coastal town located half way up the Adriatic coast of the South of Italy.

This port city has an extensive harbour, some gorgeous beaches, and a delightful historic old town centre.

The old town centre can be found close to the harbour and has a myriad of narrow streets packed full with interesting structures.

Within the old town, you can find the impressive Castello Svevo, the Cathedral of San Sabino, and the Basilica of San Nicola.

Furthermore you can also find several museums here – most notably the Archaeological Museum and the Bari Civic Museum.

In the modern part of Bari, you can find a host of designer establishments and quality restaurants and bars if you prefer to shop and dine.

4. The Amalfi Coast

This particular region of Southern Italy is one of the most beautiful and world renowned.

Stretching from Naples to Salerno, the Amalfi coast offers dramatic scenery, gorgeous towns that hug the mountains, and some interesting historical sites.

This protected region features some idyllic coastal towns such as Amalfi, Erchie, Minori and Positano – these towns have a series of multi-coloured houses that stack up against the hillsides and provide picture perfect photo opportunities.

Furthermore, sites such as Villa Rufolo in Ravello provide unrivalled views across to the Mediterranean Sea.

This whole region is crying out to be explored and a regular train and bus service make it easy to do so.

Pescara is one of the most northern cities in Southern Italy and lies on the western Adriatic Coast of the country.

The city has a large harbour that is a great place to walk through and admire the various fishing and sailing boats.

Furthermore, spanning part of the harbour is the impressive Ponte del Mare which is a suspension bridge that has a split cycling and walking track running its entire length.

Either side of the harbour, Pescara benefits from two long stretches of golden and pristine beaches – these beaches are packed full of amenities and are the perfect places to soak up the sun and relax.

6. Catanzaro

Catanzaro is one of the most prominent cities on the dog leg of Italy and is situated in the mountains but extends down to the coast.

Once of the most impressive landmarks of Catanzaro is the Biodiversity Park – this park features an extensive botanical gardens, a military museum and a children’s playground.

If you head out of town, you can find the gorgeous Cascata Campanaro that is surrounded by hiking trails and some amazing scenery.

Spanning the Fiumaerlla torrent is the Ponte Bisantis – this huge bridge is one of the most important architectural constructs in Southern Italy and is a fine site.

Aside from parks, bridges and natural scenery, Catanzaro also offers a great beach in the form of Catanzaro Lido for those who want to kick it back a notch.

Palermo  is actually the capital of the Island of Sicily and holds an important place in the history of this southern archipelago – it serves as the economic and cultural centre of Sicily and contains some of the islands most important landmarks.

Palermo Cathedral is simply stunning – its differing architectural styles show the various empires and nations that have conquered Sicily.

The Palermo Archaeological Museum expands on the city and islands history and contains some magnificent artefacts and relics dating back as far as the Roman era.

For more history, you can travel underground and visit the Capuchin Abbey and Catacombs – here you can find over 8000 bodies that have been preserved by the monks that live here.

Palermo also features some fantastic markets and many places to find a bargain with the locals.

8. Brindisi

Brindisi is located to the north west of Lecce and is an important coastal town in the region of Southern Italy.

This city has an ancient history and was supposedly founded by a the hero Diomedes.

The first thing you will notice about Brindisi is its amazing port – the two pronged body of water contains a myriad of shipping vessels and some fantastic scenery.

Secondly, if you travel to the northern part of the city you will reach the Isola Sant’Andrea – this small island sits at the opening of the harbour and contains a brilliant castle and fantastic views out to the sea.

Brindisi also features a range of superb historical structures such as the Monument to Italian Sailors and Brindisi Cathedral.

9. Barletta

Further up the eastern coast of Italy you can find the city of Barletta .

This port is a great place to relax and enjoy the beaches and fine Adriatic climate, but also has a host of interesting sites and attractions.

The main point of interest is the immense Castello Svevo – this castle was constructed during the Norman period and has a fantastic design and impressive battlements.

If you enjoy walking, the Lungomare Pietro Mennea and the Lido provide opportunities to stretch your legs and take in the sea breeze.

This area of Barletta is well maintained and geared for tourists and those wishing to enjoy a day at the beach.

Barletta also has several interesting museums and lies in close proximity to Andria and Trani which are two other wonderful destinations.

Foggia is a city and commune located in close proximity to the Parco Nazionale del Gargano.

This commune has been known as the granary of Italy and is surrounded by fertile farmland – it also serves as an important transport hub in this region of Italy.

Foggia has a fantastic array of attractions and one of the most famous is its cathedral; this Baroque structure has a sublime design and features some stunning architecture.

The Piazza Umberto Giordano sits close to the cathedral and has some great shopping opportunities and is surrounded by beautiful buildings.

Aside from the architecture, Foggia also has some magnificent parks such as the Parco Karol Wojtyla and the Parco San Felice.

For something different and off the beaten track, Foggia is certainly a top pick.

Capri is a small island off the western coast of Southern Italy that lies in close proximity to the Amalfi Coast and Naples.

This island is truly beautiful and is a hugely popular destination for day trips.

When you step off of the boat you will be astounded at the fantastic scenery of this mesmerizing place.

Take the funicular to the Piazzetta and perhaps site and enjoy a drink and people watch.

If you prefer to stay active, take a boat trip around the island or explore the fantastic Blue Grotto cave network.

Continuing the theme of adventure, you can hike to Monte Solaro for possibly the best views of the whole of Capri.

Finally, the nightlife in Capri is vibrant and if you enjoy partying, consider stopping here until the early hours of the morning!

12. Catania

Catania is the second largest city on the island of Sicily and can be found on it’s eastern coast.

Combined with the surrounding communes and towns, this metropolis is actually the 7th largest in Italy.

Within the confines of this busy city, you can find a range of historical sites and interesting attractions.

Ursino Castle and the Cathedral of Catania are both beautiful structures that have stood the test of time and provide insight into the history of the city.

Alternatively, if you want to travel further afield, you can see the immense Mount Etna which is active – trips are possible to see the smouldering crater and look down on the island of Sicily from up high.

This island is much larger than Capri which and both sit at either end of the Gulf of Naples.

Ischia is a volcanic island and contains a range of mountains and rocky terrain.

One of the main sites of this island is the impressive Aragonese Castle that sits proudly on its own small island and is connected by a long footbridge over the sea.

Ischia also contains some beautiful villages, an active port and some divine natural gardens.

Finally, the island is also home to a selection of beautiful beaches and hidden bays that are a great place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

14. Parco Nazionale del Gargano

On the eastern Adriatic coast of Southern Italy there lies an immense national park – Gargano.

This park covers over 110,000 hectares and is renowned for its beautiful scenery and dramatic coastlines.

Throughout this region you can find a multitude of hiking trails, mountains, lakes and stretches of rocky cost and cliffs.

Furthermore there is a wave of delightful coastal towns such as Manfredonia and Vieste that have great beaches and some brilliant sites and hospitality.

15. Messina

Messina is one of the most important cities on the Island of Sicily and has an extensive history as a major port in the Mediterranean.

This city is only a short distance across the Straight of Messina to mainland Italy and has regular boats that travel to Reggio Calabria and Villa San Giovanni.

In the city itself there is a magnificent cathedral and bell tower that sit in a picturesque piazza.

Furthermore, the Messina Regional Museum contains a myriad of interesting artefacts and displays about the history of the area including archaeological excavations and artwork from Caravaggio.

In the immediate area, there is also several coastal towns such as Torre Faro that have beaches and a host of restaurants and beach bars.

15 Best Places to Visit in South Italy:

• The Amalfi Coast
• Parco Nazionale del Gargano

Wander With Alex

Southern Italy: 12 Amazing Places to Go on Vacation

Posted: July 16, 2023 | Last updated: July 16, 2023

Alberobello, Apulia

Recommended by Chris of LooknWalk

A small town in the province of Bari in the Apulia (ita: Puglia) region of Southern Italy. Alberobello is a picturesque destination, well-known for the Trulli houses.

Known as the Capital of the Trulli, one of the city's neighborhoods has been made a UNESCO World Heritage site because of these strange, whitewashed houses. The buildings have conical roofs and no mortar.

While many of these Trulli are still inhabited – and there is a separate neighborhood of Trullis completely residential – some houses have been turned into stores, restaurants, or lodging.

Once you get off the train or bus, follow the signs and walk to the protected area. Alberobello can easily be visited as a half-day trip from Bari . Put on some good walking shoes as that's what you'd be doing most of the time: walk! Explore the streets and the cute houses, stop to take photos, visit the church (also a trullo), and get some souvenirs.

There is also a Trullo Living Museum that you can visit (from July to September). It features old workshops and houses furnished with original 19th-Century tools and objects brought to life by actors.

Feeling hungry? Pack some snacks and stop in the square right in front of the entrance to the protected area and refuel. Or venture away from the tourist center to get something to eat in a local restaurant.

Should you want to spend the night in a Trullo, make sure to plan and book in advance, especially if you travel during the high season (summer).

Capri, Campania

Recommended by Kerry of VeggTravel

The Isle of Capri is located on the Mediterranean Ocean to the south of Italy. Popular with visitors as well as locals alike, the charm of Capri draws you in with its quaint residences as well as magnificent mountainous sights. One of the most common ways to see this magnificent Italian island is by doing a Sorrento to Capri day trip , as it is fairly expensive to stay in Capri. 

Other options are to get a ferry to Capri from Naples or the Amalfi Coast or take an organized boat tour. With this option, you also get to visit the beautiful blue grotto which illuminates the small cave in a bright, alluring color. 

Another must-do is to take the chair lift to the peak of Monte Salaro. Take pleasure in the panoramic sights 583m over sea level looking across the bay of Naples, the Amalfi coast, along with the captivating Capri Town.

If you’re not acquainted with Italy, there are extremely restricted public beaches and Capri is no different. This means that the majority of the ‘coastline area’ is privately owned by beach clubs which require you to pay to enter. The price of these can be fairly expensive so just worth doing if you’re taking pleasure from the beach club all day.

Otherwise, head to the public beach early so you can get one of the limited spots available. One of the most popular beach areas of the island is the Marina Piccola. There are great places to cliff jump from as well as some of the iconic rocky backdrops that you will have undoubtedly seen in the photos.

Naples, Campania

Recommended by Ronja of Ronja Goes Abroad

Naples, the third-largest city in Italy, is located in Southern Italy. It is known for its beautiful architecture and is one of the most important and big ports in Europe. But this city isn't for everyone.

Arriving in Naples can be a shock. If you travel by car, the traffic changes majorly and you can feel the tension while driving. If arriving by plane and taking the train/metro to the main station, getting above ground and seeing the surroundings might shock you.

The city has had a serious problem with garbage for many years and you can see it here. The faster you get from the sea, the poorer and dirtier it gets. Therefore, the main tourist location is by the sea. But be aware of pickpockets!

The port area and its surroundings are beautiful. It's the Naples you know from all the photos. Take a walk by the sea and stop to eat at one of the many restaurants.

You cannot visit Naples without eating pizza. There are many underground ruins in Naples worth a visit. Tickets to the catacombs are around 12€. Naples is an old city and has many castles for one to visit, for example Castel dell Ovo by the sea. 

When visiting Naples, you must take a day trip to Pompei. It is easy to get there by public transport. Jump on the MET train or metro number 1 to Pompei. Both arrive in the city center of Pompei where it's a short walk to the ruins. If you are not one to visit ruins, take a shuttle bus up to Mt. Vesuvius. Visiting the volcano is worth it both for the views and for the sight itself.

The best time to visit Naples is in summer but be prepared for many tourists and warm weather. If you are up to visiting during the off-season, October is a great time to visit. The weather is not around 15-20°C, and there aren't as many tourists as there are during the summer months. 

Positano, Campania

Recommended by Lori of Travelin Mad

Positano on the Amalfi Coast of southern Italy is not only one of the most beautiful and celebrated small towns in Italy, but it's also a favorite vacation destination for Italians. Brightly-colored houses, shops, and hotels cling to the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea making for one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy .

To get to Positano, you'll have to take a bus or a private shuttle, as no train lines serve the Amalfi Coast. A rental car is the least desirable since there are very few places to park.

When you feel like just relaxing and exploring the town, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta with its beautiful Moorish tiled dome provides an excellent reference point for getting around the town. It has great views of the sea and great photo ops.

By day, you can relax at sunny Spiaggia Grande beach or head to Da Adolfo and Laurito beach. In the evening, wander the narrow streets that wind up and down the mountainside with upscale shops, boutiques, and restaurants. You can even have leather sandals custom-made for you while you are dining.

For incredible scenery from high above the shoreline, make time to hike Il Sentiero Degli Dei, the Path of the Gods. It's an easy hike with breathtaking views. For a different way to sightsee, take a guided boat tour of the coast and don't forget your camera.

After dinner try a sip of limoncello, a local digestivo made from Sorrento lemons. Shops all around town sell lovely ceramic bottles of the liqueur for something special to take home.

Procida, Campania

Recommended by JJ of Travel Across the Borderline

Procida (pronounced pro-cheee-dah) is the smallest inhabited island in the bay of Naples, Italy. It is often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Capri, which is great news for you because whilst people are being overcharged in busy Capri you will have laid-back Procida all to yourself! 

I recommend staying in Naples or nearby Sorrento and taking the ferry to Procida for a day trip . The small island is easily covered in a day. 

Procida, Italy is famous for its pretty pastel-colored buildings that line the harbor so one of the best things to do is to hike up to the viewpoint so that you can admire Procida in all its glory. Yes, it will be very hot and sweaty, but I promise the view is worth the effort!

The best viewpoint in Procida is located on the opposite side of the island to where the ferry drops you off, but there are plenty of signs pointing the way. You can also type ‘Panorama Elsa Morante sulla Corricella e Terra Murata' into google maps or maps.me to find your way there.

After your hike, you can cool off with a refreshing dip in the sea and then treat yourself to some delicious Italian cuisine in one of the many outdoor restaurants.

Sorrento, Campania

Recommended by Sam of FindLoveAndTravel.com

A little over an hour south of Naples, Sorrento is one of the most beautiful areas in Southern Italy! Its proximity to Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Capri makes for a great starting point.

Naples also has tons to see and do! Sorrento has tons of shops and restaurants throughout the whole city, which is very walkable! Since they are located right on the water, Sorrento is known for having excellent seafood. They even have a fishing village at Marina Grande. 

Furthermore, they have some great beach clubs. The clubs are more of a boardwalk into the crystal blue water than a sandy beach. Sorrento also has a very small public sand beach as well. 

Additionally, you must add a lemon grove to your Sorrento itinerary ! You will get to see the giant lemons Sorrento is so famous for and usually also includes some complimentary shots of limoncello! 

For sunset, you can walk over to the Sorrento lift, which brings you to the edge of the cliff Sorrento is perched on. From here, you can look out and see Mt. Vesuvius across the gulf of Naples as the sunsets.

Sorrento has a large ferry port making it easy to get to Positano and Capri, both of which are a must-see! Pompeii and the Herculaneum are easy day trips to add to your southern Italy intermarry.

Vietri sul Mare, Campania

Recommended by Jackie of  Jou Jou Travels

Vietri Sul Mare is a hidden gem along the Amalfi Coast in the Salerno province. It is known as the ceramic capital of the world and boasts one of the most beautiful serene beaches. The town has a beautiful view of the cityscape as soon as you exit the train station.

You can easily get to Vietri Sul Mare from Salerno by taking one stopover to the town or by taking a ferry to the Marina di Vietri from Amalfi or Salerno. Then, you will be alarmed by the true uniqueness and creativity the adorable town holds. The streets are decked with ceramics and each shop one after another has handmade ceramics you can buy and take home with you as a souvenir.

Not only that, there is so much to do after wandering the cute, quaint streets full of tiled walls and paths. Start your day shopping, then head to the private beach, Spiaggia Della Crestarella. It is relaxing and much less touristic than the other beaches in popular Positano or Capri.

In the center of the town, you will also find the Cathedral of Vietri, which is worth a stop. There is also a Park and Amphitheater over the sea with a tiled staircase leading down to the Amphitheater.

This is a great photo spot and right above it, you will find a nice place to grab food in front of the sunset.  This restaurant is called Pane & Panorama and has some tasty sandwiches in front of a panoramic view of the town.

Castellammare del Golfo, Sicily

Recommended by Marianne of Pasta Pretzels & Passports

Castellammare del Golfo is a pretty seaside town located one hour west of Sicily’s capital Palermo. Centered around their marina, the town is filled with wonderful shops, restaurants, gardens, cafes, and even a castle! This town is worth a visit if you are heading to Sicily !

For a small town, there are so many things to do to fill your days. Depending on what you are interested in, you can relax by one of several scenic beaches , do some sightseeing, shop, enjoy the nightlife, or just soak in the culture on a stroll around town!

One of the iconic things to do in Castellammare is to visit Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve. This pristine area features 7 km of windswept shores, precipitous cliffs, turquoise water, natural coves, and grottos for swimming. Enjoy the stunning natural vistas as you hike, swim, or relax in the Sicilian sun.

If you are looking to do a little shopping, head to the Quattro Canti and Corso Garibaldi. This cobblestone pedestrian-only area is very picturesque, with gorgeous views of the marina and castle from the central gardens. Here, you will find quaint little boutiques, gelaterias, restaurants, and artisanal shops filled with amazing locally-made goods.

One thing you do not want to miss is a trip to the Belvedere. Take this short drive to the top of the cliff for a jaw-dropping view of the town. Not only is it a photographer’s dream, but you will also find a nice restaurant tucked into the hillside.

Palermo, Sicily

Recommended by Caroline of VeggieWayfarer.com

The Mediterranean island Sicily in southern Italy is favored by many a traveler looking to soak up some much-needed vitamin D in the winter months and those looking for the best beaches to relax in summer. The capital of the island, Palermo, is the perfect hub to go out and explore the multitude of quaint towns in Sicily .

Visit the Norman Palace with the impressive Palatine Chapel adorned with hundreds of golden mosaics, the Church of Gesu, and the Church of San Cataldo to soak up some typical Sicilian culture.

Grab a traditional spleen sandwich or a delicious Arancini (fried riceball with ragu or à la norma for the vegetarians) for lunch, and make sure to keep some room for gelato with a big brioche.

Make your way towards the Cathedral of Palermo, for a few euros you can climb up a set of narrow stairs and onto the roof for the best views over Palermo.

The local markets (Ballaro, La Vucheria, and Il Capo) are prime locations for the famous Palermitan street food, good coffee, and people watching.

Keep a close eye on your belongings here, though, as pickpockets are notorious in the area. End the day with a delicious plate of pasta with sardines or swordfish skewers. Buon Appetito!

Trapani, Sicily

Recommended by Tjasa of The Travel Momento

When visiting southern Italy cities, one of the most charming places you need to see is Trapani. Located on the West coast of Sicily, it is the perfect base to explore this site of the island and also the place with the best traditional Sicilian cuisine.

Usually not among the popular Sicilian towns, the ancient city of Trapani will find a place in your heart with its history, culture, and architecture. The best way to spend one or more days in Trapani is by exploring the narrow cobbled streets of the old center on foot. Walk through the alleys and admire the various churches, chapels, and temples that are still in existence today.

Some of the most prominent sights are the long main street Corso Vittorio Emanuele alongside which you can find the Palazzo Senatorio o Cavarretta and Cattedrale di San Lorenzo. If you continue to the seaside, you will reach Torre di Ligny, which today represents the seat of the history museum. This is a fantastic spot to finish your day and admire one of the best sunsets you have seen.

In addition to Trapani’s rich architectural heritage, there are also some beautiful surroundings to explore, reachable by bus, cable car, or rented car. Drive up to the unique village of Erice and its medieval castle overlooking Trapani and the Sicilian coastline, get blown away by the pinkish salt lakes in Matala, and jump into the turquoise sea of the Aegadi islands. 

Catania, Sicily

Recommended by Lara of The Best Travel Gifts

One of the best places to visit in Southern Italy is Catania in Sicily. Catania is a beautiful World Heritage-listed city filled with historical buildings and rich culture.

One of the best things to do in Catania is a walking tour through the historic city. You can either go for one of the free walking tours that depart from Piazza Università or create your own. Some of the highlights to include in your walking tour are Ursino Castle, Palazzo Biscari, Monastero dei Benedettini, the Roman theater and Piazza del Duomo.

If you have a strong stomach and you love being around locals, then make sure you add a stop at La Pescheria (the fish market) too. It's a great place to experience authentic Catania.

Besides the fact that Catania itself is a beautiful city to visit, it's also a great starting point for a day trip to Mount Etna. And a visit to Mount Etna is a must when you're in Sicily. 

To stand on the top of an active volcano (no worries, it is still safe to visit Mount Etna) and admire the view over the island, is something you don't want to miss. There are many options for organized tours from Catania. Alternatively, you can rent a car or take the bus. 

Taormina, Sicily

Recommended by Mariana of RoadTripEuroGuide.com

Among the many places you can visit in southern Italy, Taormina is probably one of the cutest cities in Sicily and worth a weekend trip at a minimum! There's a debate going around on “ What is Better? Sicily or the Amalfi Coast " and a defining point on why I pick Sicily each time is Taormina.

One of my favorite things to do in Taormina is to lay on the pebble beach of Isola Bella and just take in the views. A few other beautiful spots to visit are the park, Villa Comunale di Taormina, and the Teatro Antico di Taormina, especially at sunset.

Beyond that, the winding streets are full of Sicilian restaurants and the sea breeze, which carries the scent of flowers right to your table. I would gladly talk about top restaurants, but every restaurant is wonderfully delicious. What I will say is this – do not leave without eating a cannoli or having a granita.

A little legend I learned about in Taormina has got this city forever stuck in my mind. Way back, a beautiful Sicilian girl was taking care of flowers on her balcony when a Moorish man passing by noticed her and fell in love.

They had a love affair full of passion until she discovered he had a wife and kids waiting for him back home. She went crazy with jealousy, and one night, while he was sleeping, she cut off his head and decided to use it as a vase to grow her beautiful plants!

People walking by her balcony noticed her blooms, and they began to forge colorful clay head pots wishing to have the same magic green thumb.

Today in the streets of Taormina and all of Sicily, there are several varieties of ceramic heads, and the lesson is free for everyone to learn – Sicilian women don't put up with foolishness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, southern Italy is a great option! From the picturesque coastal towns to the rolling hills of the interior, this region is truly special. Whether you’re a history buff looking to explore ancient ruins and stunning medieval cathedrals, or a foodie in search of world-class cuisine and local delicacies, southern Italy is sure to leave a lasting impression.

And with its crystal-clear waters and stunning coastline, this beautiful part of the country is also the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy some rest and relaxation. So if you’re ready for an unforgettable adventure, add southern Italy to your travel bucket list!

This 12 Amazing Places to Visit in Southern Italy article originally appeared on Wander With Alex .

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Putting The Maserati Grecale Folgore to the Test in Southern Italy

The manufacturer’s first fully-electric suv — with an output of 410 kw or 549 hp and a focus on sustainable luxury..

Maserati has officially unveiled its first all-electric SUV, the Grecale Folgore , marking a significant moment in the luxury car manufacturer’s storied history. Invited to learn more about the vehicle, we traveled to Apulia, Italy, where we had two days to learn from brand experts, as well as get some time on the road — traversing a variety of environments from old town centers to winding country lanes.

The Maserati Grecale Folgore

DAY 1: Design

DAY 2: On The Road

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hypedrive (@hypedrive)

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🏀 Men's Tournament

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💪 Edey vs. Burns

📊 Final four bracket predictions

📖 How tournament history can be made

NCAA.com | April 5, 2024

2024 march madness: women's ncaa tournament schedule, dates, times.

This is the schedule for the 2024 NCAA women's basketball tournament for March Madness. The Final Four is today, Friday, April 5.

• Selection Sunday: 8 p.m. ET Sunday, March 17 on ESPN
• First Four: March 20-21
• First round: March 22-23
• Second round: March 24-25
• Sweet 16: March 29-30
• Elite Eight : March 31-April 1
• Final Four:  Friday, April 5 at 7 p.m. with the second semifinal starting 30 minutes after the first game ends. Both will be broadcast on ESPN and hosted at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. 
• NCAA championship game : Sunday, April 7 at 3 p.m. ET on ABC, hosted at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio.

These are the sites for the women's tournament in 2024:

Click or tap here to view the 2024 bracket as a pdf.  |   Click or tap here for the 2024 interactive bracket. ​

2024 March Madness women's TV times and schedule (all times ET)

Friday, april 5 — final four.

• (1) South Carolina vs. (3) NC State | 7 p.m. | ESPN
• (1) Iowa vs. (3) UConn | 9:30 p.m. | ESPN

Sunday, April 7 — National Championship

• TBD vs. TBD | 3 p.m. | ABC

Wednesday, March 20 — First Four 

• (16) Presbyterian 49 , (16) Sacred Heart 42
• (12) Vanderbilt 72 , (12) Columbia 68

Thursday, March 21 — First Four

• (11) Arizona 69, (11) Auburn 59
• (16) Holy Cross 72, (16) UT Martin 45

Friday, March 22 — First round 

• (8) North Carolina 59 , (9) Michigan State 56
• (2) Ohio State 80 , (15) Maine 57
• (11) Middle Tennessee 71 , (6) Louisville 69
• (1) South Carolina 91 , (16) Presbyterian 39
• (7) Duke 72 , (10) Richmond 61
• (1) Texas 82 , (16) Drexel 42 
• (4) Virginia Tech 92 , (13) Marshall 49 
• (3) LSU 70 , (14) Rice 60
• (4) Kansas State 78 , (13) Portland 65 
• (8) Alabama 82, (9) Florida State 74 
• (5) Baylor 80, (12) Vanderbilt 63
• (5) Colorado 86,  (12) Drake 72
• (7) Iowa State 93,  (10) Maryland 86 
• (3) Oregon State 73,  (14) Eastern Washington 51 
• (2) Stanford 79 , (15) Norfolk State 50
• (6) Nebraska   61 , (11) Texas A&M 59

Saturday, March 23 — First round

• (6) Tennessee 92 , (11) Green Bay 63
• (3) UConn 86 , (14) Jackson State 64
• (4) Indiana 89 , (13) Fairfield 56
• (8) Kansas 81 , (9) Michigan 72 (OT)
• (2) Notre Dame 81 , (15) Kent State 67
• (3) NC State 64 , (14) Chattanooga 45
• (1) Iowa 91 , (16) Holy Cross 65
• (6) Syracuse 74 , (11) Arizona 69
• (5) Oklahoma 73 , (12) FGCU 70
• (1) Southern California 87 , (16) Texas A&M Corpus Christi 55
• (7) Ole Miss 67 , (10) Marquette 55
• (8) West Virginia 63 , (9) Princeton 53
• (7) Creighton 87 , (10) UNLV 73
• (4) Gonzaga 75 , (13) UC Irvine 56
• (2) UCLA 84 , (15) California Baptist 55
• (5) Utah 68 , (12) South Dakota State 54

Sunday, March 24 — Second round

• (7) Duke 75 , (2) Ohio State 63
• (1) South Carolina 88 , (8) North Carolina 41
• (5) Colorado 63 , (4) Kansas State 50
• (3) LSU 83 , (11) Middle Tennessee 56
• (3) Oregon State 61 , (6) Nebraska 51
• (1) Texas 65 , (8) Alabama 54
• (5) Baylor 75 , (4) Virginia Tech 72
• (2) Stanford 87 , (7) Iowa State 81 (OT)

Monday, March 25 — Second round

• (2) Notre Dame 71,  (7) Ole Miss 56
• (3) NC State 79, (6) Tennessee 72
• (3) UConn 72, (6) Syracuse 64
• (4) Indiana 75, (5) Oklahoma 68
• (1) Iowa 64,  (8) West Virgina 54
• (2) UCLA 67, (7) Creighton 63
• (1) Southern Cal 73, (8) Kansas 55
• (4) Gonzaga 77,  (5) Utah 66

Friday, March 29 — Sweet 16 

• (3) Oregon State 70 , (2) Notre Dame 65
• (1) South Carolina 79 , (4) Indiana 75
• (3) NC State 77 , (2) Stanford 67
• (1) Texas 69 , (4) Gonzaga 47

Saturday, March 30 — Sweet 16 

• (3) LSU 78 , (2) UCLA 69
• (1) Iowa 89 , (5) Colorado 68
• (1) Southern California 74 , (5) Baylor 70
• (3) UConn 53 , (7) Duke 45

Sunday, March 31 — Elite Eight

• (1) South Carolina 70,  (3) Oregon State 58
• (3) NC State 76 , (1) Texas 66

Monday, April 1 — Elite Eight

• (3) UConn 80, (1) Southern California 73
• (1) Iowa 94, (3) LSU 87  

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Here are the future sites for the championship:

March Madness: Future sites

Here is the complete list of teams who have won the DI national championship:

NCAA DI women's basketball: Champions, history

This week in DII sports: The DII college basketball season, wrapped up

NIT, WBIT finalists 1 win away from finishing the season as champions

Basketball has stolen heart of NCAA’s Charlie Baker

March madness.

• 📆 2024 March Madness schedule
• ❓ How the field of 68 is picked
• 👀 Best performances in tournament history

Women's Final Four Most Outstanding Players from 1982 to present

The 13 highest-scoring individual performances in March Madness women's history

Women's basketball championship history

Schools with the most DI women's basketball national championships

Best performances in NCAA women's basketball tournament history

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• NC State is the self-proclaimed 'party crasher' in the 2024 Women's Final Four
• 2024 March Madness: Women's NCAA tournament schedule, dates, times
• How Raven Johnson grew from last year's viral 'wave-off' to lead undefeated South Carolina
• Caitlin Clark and Iowa get another shot at a national title in the 2024 Final Four
• Here's how often No. 1 seeds make the women's Final Four
• Paige Bueckers is looking for 'fairytale ending' in return to Final Four after a full season sidelined
• Dawn Staley takes home 2024 Naismith Coach of the Year Award
• Caitlin Clark wins second-straight Naismith Award
• NIT, WBIT finalists 1 win away from the title
• NC State is at the Women's Final Four for the first time since 1998

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Israel’s Deadly Airstrike on the World Central Kitchen

The story behind the pioneering aid group and how it mistakenly came under attack..

From “The New York Times,” I’m Michael Barbaro. This is “The Daily.”

The Israeli airstrike that killed seven aid workers delivering food in Gaza has touched off outrage and condemnations from across the world. Today, Kim Severson on the pioneering relief crew at the center of the story, and Adam Rasgon on what we’re learning about the deadly attack on the group’s workers. It’s Thursday, April 4.

Kim, can you tell us about the World Central Kitchen?

World Central Kitchen started as a little idea in Chef José Andrés’ head. He was in Haiti with some other folks, trying to do earthquake relief in 2010. And his idea at that point was to teach Haitians to cook and to use solar stoves and ways for people to feed themselves, because the infrastructure was gone.

And he was cooking with some Haitians in one of the camps, and they were showing him how to cook beans the Haitian way. You sort of smash them and make them a little creamy. And it occurred to him that there was something so comforting for those folks to eat food that was from their culture that tasted good to them. You know, if you’re having a really hard time, what makes you feel good is comfort food, right? And warm comfort food.

So that moment in the camp really was the seed of this idea. It planted this notion in José Andrés’ mind, and that notion eventually became World Central Kitchen.

And for those who don’t know, Kim, who exactly is Chef José Andrés?

José Andrés is a Spanish chef who cooked under some of the Spanish molecular gastronomy greats, came to America, really made his bones in Washington, DC, with some avant-garde food, but also started to expand and cook tapas, cook Mexican food. He’s got about 40 restaurants now.

Yeah. And he’s got a great Spanish restaurant in New York. He’s got restaurants in DC, restaurants in Miami.

Come with me to the kitchen. Don’t be shy.

He’s also become a big TV personality.

Chef, are you going to put the lobster in the pot with the potatoes?

We’re going to leave the potatoes in.

Leave the potatoes in!

He’s one of the most charismatic people I’ve ever been around in the food world.

He’s very much the touchstone of what people want their celebrity chefs to be.

So how does he go from being all those things you just described, to being on the ground, making local comfort food for Haitians? And how does this all go from an idea that that would be a good idea, to this much bigger, full-fledged humanitarian organization?

So he started to realize that giving people food in disaster zones was a thing that was really powerful. He helped feed people after Hurricane Sandy, and he realized that he could get local chefs who all wanted to help and somehow harness that power. But the idea really became set when he went to Houston in 2017 to help after Hurricane Harvey.

And that’s when he saw that getting local chefs to tap into their resources, borrowing kitchens, using ingredients that chefs might have had on hand or are spoiling in the fridge because the power is out and all these restaurants needed something to do with all this food before it rotted — harnessing all that and putting it together and giving people well-cooked, delicious — at least as delicious as it can be in a disaster zone — that’s when World Central Kitchen as we know it today sort of emerged as a fully formed concept.

The first pictures now coming in from Puerto Rico after taking a direct hit — Hurricane Maria slamming into the island. And as you heard, one official saying the island is destroyed.

Shortly after that, he flew to Puerto Rico, where Hurricane Maria had pretty much left the entire island without water and in darkness.

He flew in on one of the first commercial jets that went back in. He got a couple of his chef buddies whose kitchens were closed, and they just decided to start cooking. They were basically just serving pots of stew, chicken stew, in front of the restaurants.

The lines got longer. And of course, chefs are a really specific kind of creature. They really like to help their community. They’re really about feeding people.

So all the people who were chefs or cooks on the ground in Puerto Rico who could wanted to help. And you had all these chefs in the States who wanted to fly down and help if they could, too. So you had this constant flow of chefs coming in and out. That’s when I went down and followed him around for about a week.

And what did you see?

Well, one of the most striking things was his ability to get food to remote places in ways the Salvation Army couldn’t and other government agencies that were on the ground couldn’t. You know, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, doesn’t deliver food. It contracts with people to deliver food.

So you have all these steps of bureaucracy you have to go through to get those contracts. And then, FEMA says you have to have a bottle of water and this and that in those boxes. There’s a lot of structure to be able to meet the rules and regulations of FEMA.

So José doesn’t really care about rules and regulations very much. So he just got his troops together and figured out where people needed food. He had this big paper map he’d carry around and lay out. And he had a Sharpie, and he’d circle villages where he’d heard people needed food or where a bridge was out.

And then he would dispatch people to get the food there. Now, how are you going to do that? He was staying in a hotel where some National Guard and military police were staying to go patrol areas to make sure they were safe. He would tuck his big aluminum pans of food into the back of those guys’ cars, and say, Could you stop and drop these off at this church?

During that time in Puerto Rico, he funded a lot of it off of his own credit cards or with cash. And then he’s on the phone with people like the president of Goya or his golf buddies who are well-connected, saying, hey, we need some money. Can you send some money for this? Can you send some money for that?

So he just developed this network, almost overnight. I mean, he is very much a general in the field. He wears this Orvis fishing vest, has cigars in one pocket, money in the other. And he just sets out to feed people.

And there were deliveries that were as simple as he and a couple of folks taking plastic bags with food and wading through a flooded parking lot to an apartment building where an older person had been stuck for a few days and couldn’t get out, to driving up to a community that had been cut off. There was a church that was trying to distribute food.

We drive through this little mountain road and get to this church. We start unloading the food, and the congregation is inside the church. José comes in, and the pastor thanks him so much. And the 20 people or so who are there gather around José, and they begin praying.

And he puts his head down. He’s a Catholic. He’s a man who prays. He puts his head down. He’s in the middle of these folks, and he starts to pray with them. And then, pulls out his map, circles another spot, and the group is off to the next place.

And when Russia invades Ukraine, he immediately decided it was time for World Central Kitchen to step into a war zone. You know, so many people needed to eat. So many Ukrainians were crossing the border into Poland.

There are refugees in several countries surrounding Ukraine. So a lot of the work that they did was feeding the refugees. They set up big operations around train stations, places where refugees were coming, and then they were able to get into cities.

One of their operations did get hit with some armaments early on. Nobody was hurt badly. But I think that was the first time that they realized this was an actually more dangerous situation than perhaps going in after there’s been an earthquake.

But the other thing that really made a difference here is, José Andrés and World Central Kitchen would broadcast on social media, live from the kitchens. In the beginning, he’d be holding up his phone and saying, we put out 3 million meals for the people of Puerto Rico, chefs for Puerto Rico. It was very infectious.

And now, one of the standard operating procedures for people who are in the World Central Kitchens is to hold up the phone like that — you can see the kitchen, busy in the back — and talk about how many meals they’ve served. They have these kind of wild meal counts, which one presumes are pretty accurate. But they’re like, we served 320,000 meals this morning to the people of Lviv.

I mean, that scale seems important to note. This is not the kind of work that feeds a few people and a few towns. When you’re talking about 300,000 meals in a morning, you’re talking about something that begins, it would seem, to rival the scope and the reach of the groups that we tend to think of as the most important in the disaster-relief world.

Absolutely. And the meals — there are lots and lots and lots of meals. But also, World Central Kitchen hires local cooks. They’ll hire food truck operators, who obviously have no work, and pay them to go out and deliver the meals. They’ll pay local cooks to come in and cook. That’s what they do with a lot of their donations, which is very different than other aid organizations. And this then helps the local economy. He’s trying to buy as much local food as he can. That keeps the economy going in the time of a disaster. So that’s a piece of his operation that is a little different than traditional aid operations.

So walk us up to October 7, when Hamas attacked Israel. What does Chef José Andrés and the World Kitchen do?

Well, he had had such impact in Ukraine. And I think the organization itself thought that they had the infrastructure to now take food into another war zone. Gaza, of course, was nothing like Ukraine. But World Central Kitchen shows up. They’re nimble. They start to connect with local chefs.

Right now, they have about 60 kitchens in the areas around Gaza, and they’ve hired about 400 Palestinians to help do that. But getting the food into Gaza became the difficulty.

How do you actually get the food into the Gaza Strip? Large amounts of food that require trucks? You’ve got to realize, getting food into Gaza right now requires going through Israeli checkpoints.

And that slows the operation down. You might get eight trucks a day in, and that is such a small amount of food. And this has been incredibly difficult for any aid operations.

So World Central Kitchen, playing on the experience that they had in a war zone and working with government entities and trying to coordinate permissions — they took that experience from Ukraine and were trying to apply it in the Gaza Strip. Now, they had worked for a long time with Israeli officials. They wanted to make sure that they could get their food in.

And they decided that the best way to do it would be to take food off of ships, get it in a warehouse, and then get that food into Gaza. It took a long time to pull those permissions through, but they were able to get the permissions they needed and set this system up, so they could move the food fairly quickly into North Gaza.

And once they get those permissions, how big a player do they become in Gaza?

World Central Kitchen became a kind of a fulcrum point for getting food aid in to Gaza in a way that a larger and more established humanitarian aid operations couldn’t, in part because they were small and nimble in their way. So the amount of food they were moving maybe wasn’t as large as some of the more established humanitarian aid organizations, but they had so much goodwill. They had so much logistical knowledge.

They were working with local Palestinians who knew the food systems and who understood how to get things in and out. So they were able to find a way to use a humanitarian corridor to have permissions from the Israeli government, to be able to move this food back and forth. And that’s always been the secret to World Central Kitchen — is incredibly nimble. So —

Just like in Puerto Rico, they seemed to win over just about everybody and do the seemingly impossible.

Right. And World Central Kitchen says they delivered 43 million meals to Gazans since the start of the war. And I don’t think there was any other group that could have pulled this off.

Hey, this is Zomi and Chef Olivier. We’re at the Deir al-Balah kitchen. And we’ve got the mise en place. Tell us a little bit about it, Chef.

And then, this caravan, this fairly efficient caravan of armored vehicles, labeled with World Central Kitchen logo on the roof, on the sides — the idea was they head on — this humanitarian quarter, they head on this road. The seven people who went all in vests — three of whom are security people from Great Britain — you have another World Central Kitchen employee who has handled operations in Asia, in Central America. She’s quite a veteran of the World Central Kitchen operation.

And you have a young man who someone told me was like the Michael Jordan of humanitarian aid, who hooked up with World Central Kitchen in Poland. He was a hospitality student and had just become an indispensable make-it-happen guy. And you have a Palestinian guy who’s 25, a driver.

So this is the team. They have all the clearances. They have the well-marked vehicles. It seemed like a very simple, surgical kind of operation. And of course, now, as we know, it was anything but that.

After the break, my colleague Adam Rasgon on what happened to the World Central Kitchen workers in that caravan. We’ll be right back.

So Adam, what ends up happening to this convoy that our colleague Kim Severson just described from World Central Kitchen?

So what we know is that members of the World Central Kitchen had been at a warehouse in Deir al-Balah in the Central Gaza Strip. They had just unloaded about 100 tons of food aid that had been brought via a maritime route to the coast of the Gaza Strip. When they departed the warehouse, they were in three cars.

Two of the cars were armored cars, and one was a soft-skinned car, according to the organization. When the cars reached the coastal road, known as Al Rashid Street, they started to make their way south.

And what do we know about how much the World Central Kitchen would have told the Israeli military about their plans to be on this road?

Yeah. So the World Central Kitchen said that its movements were coordinated. And in military speak or in technical speak, people often refer to this as deconfliction. So basically, this process is something that not only the World Central Kitchen but the UN, telecommunications companies going out to repair damaged telecommunications infrastructure, others would use, where they basically provide the Israeli military with information about the people who are traveling — their ID numbers, their names, the license plate numbers of the cars they’ll be traveling in.

They’ll sort of explain where their destination is. And the general process is that the Israelis will then come back to them and say, you’re approved to travel from this time, and you can take this specific route.

And do we know if that happened? If the IDF said, you’re approved, use this route on this night?

So we heard from the World Central Kitchen that they did receive this approval. And the military hasn’t come out and said that it wasn’t approved. So I think it’s fair to assume that their movements were coordinated and de-conflicted.

OK. So what happens as this seemingly pre-approved and coordinated convoy trip is making this leg of the journey?

They started to make their way south towards Rafah. And the three cars suddenly came under fire. The Israeli army unleashes powerful and devastating strikes on the three cars in the convoy, most likely from a drone. The strikes rip through the cars, killing everyone inside.

Shortly thereafter, ambulances from the Palestine Red Crescent are dispatched to the location. They retrieve the dead bodies.

They bring those bodies to a hospital. And at the hospital, the bodies are laid out, and journalists start to report to the world that indeed, five members of the World Central Kitchen staff have been killed. And the Palestine Red Crescent teams were continuing to search for other bodies and eventually brought back two more bodies to the hospital for a total of seven people killed in these airstrikes.

And when the sun comes up, what does it end up looking like — the scene of these struck trucks from this convoy?

So early in the morning when the sun comes up, a number of Palestinian journalists headed out to the coastal road and started taking pictures and videos. And I received a series of videos from one of the reporters that I was in touch with, essentially showing three cars, all heavily damaged. One had a World Central Kitchen logo on top of it, with a gaping hole in the middle of the roof.

A second car was completely charred. You could barely recognize the structure of the car. The inside of it had been completely charred, and the front smashed.

And do we know if the strike on this convoy was the only strike happening in this area? In other words, is it possible that this convoy was caught in some kind of a crossfire or in the middle of a firefight, or does it appear that this was quite narrow, and was the Israeli army targeting these specific vehicles, whether or not they realized who was in it?

We don’t have any other indication that there was another strike on that road around that time.

What that suggests, of course, is that this convoy was targeted. Now, whether Israeli officials knew who was in it, whether they were aid workers, seems like a yet-unresolved question. But it does feel very clear that the trucks in this convoy were deliberately struck.

Yes. I do think the trucks in this convoy were deliberately struck.

What is the reaction to these airstrikes on this convoy and to the death of these aid workers?

Well, one of the first reactions is from the World Central kitchen’s founder, José Andrés.

Chef José Andrés, who founded World Central Kitchen, calling them angels.

He said he was heartbroken and grieving.

And adding the Israeli government needs to stop this indiscriminate killing.

And then, he accused Israel of using food as a weapon.

What I know is that we were targeted deliberately, nonstop, until everybody was dead in this convoy.

And he just seemed devastated and quite angry.

And so what is the reaction from not just World Central Kitchen, but from the rest of the world to this airstrike?

There’s, frankly, fury and outrage.

The White House says it is outraged by an Israeli airstrike that killed seven aid workers in Gaza, including one American.

President Biden, who has been becoming increasingly critical of Israel’s approach to this war — he came out and said that he was outraged and heartbroken.

Certainly sharper in tone than we have heard in the past. He says Israel has not done enough to protect aid workers trying to deliver desperately needed help to civilians. Incidents like yesterday’s simply should not happen. Israel also has not —

And we’re seeing similar outrage from foreign governments. The British Foreign Secretary David Cameron —

The dreadful events of the last two days are a moment when we should mourn the loss of these brave humanitarian workers.

— said that the airstrikes were completely unacceptable. And he called on Israel to explain how this happened and to make changes to ensure that aid workers could be safe.

So amid all this, what does Israel have to say about the attack — about how it happened, about why it happened?

The response from Israel this time was much different, compared to other controversial airstrikes on the Gaza Strip. Often, when we’re reporting on these issues, we’ll hear from the army that they’re investigating a given incident. It will take days, if not weeks, to receive updates on where that investigation stands.

There are instances where Israel does take responsibility for harming civilians, but it’s often rare. This time, the Prime Minister —

[NON-ENGLISH SPEECH]

— Benjamin Netanyahu comes out with a video message —

— saying that Israel had unintentionally harmed innocent civilians. And that was the first indication or public indication that Israel was going to take responsibility for what had happened.

The IDF works together closely with the World Central Kitchen and greatly appreciates the important work that they do.

We later heard from the military’s chief of staff. Herzi Halevi issued a video statement in English.

I want to be very clear the strike was not carried out with the intention of harming aid workers. It was a mistake that followed a misidentification.

And he said this mistake had come after a misidentification. He said it was in the middle of a war, in a very complex condition. But —

This incident was a grave mistake. We are sorry for the unintentional harm to the members of WCK.

He was clear that this shouldn’t have happened.

I want to talk about that statement, because it seems to suggest — that word, “misidentification”— that the Israeli army believed that somebody else was in this convoy, that it wasn’t a bunch of aid workers.

That’s possible, although it’s extremely vague and cryptic language that genuinely is difficult to understand. And it’s a question that us in the Jerusalem Bureau have been asking ourselves.

I’m curious if the Israeli government has said anything in all of its statements so far about whether it noticed these markings on these three cars in the convoy. Because that, I think, for so many people, stands out as making misidentification hard to understand. It seems like perhaps a random pickup truck could be misidentified as perhaps a vehicle being used by a Hamas militant. But a group of World Central Kitchen trucks with their name all over it, driving down a known aid corridor — that becomes harder to understand as misidentification.

Yeah, it’s an important question. And at this moment, we don’t know exactly what the Israeli reconnaissance drones could see, and whether or not they were able to see, in the darkness of the night, the markings of the World Central Kitchen on the cars. But what is clear is that when the cars were found in the morning, right there was the big emblazoned logo of the World Central Kitchen.

Mm-hmm. I’m curious how you think about the speed with which Israel came out and said it was in the wrong here. Because as you said, that’s not how Israel typically reacts to many of these situations. And that makes me think that it might have something to do with the nature of the aid group that was the target of these airstrikes — the World Central Kitchen — and its story.

I think it does have to do with this particular group. This is a group that’s led by a celebrity chef, very high-profile, who is gone around the world to conflict zones, disaster areas, to provide food aid. And I also think it has to do with the people who were killed, most of who were Western foreign aid workers. Frankly, I don’t think we would be having this conversation if a group of Palestinian aid workers had been killed.

Nor, perhaps, would we be having the reaction that we have had so far from the Israeli government.

I would agree with that.

Adam, at the end of the day, what is going to be the fallout from all of this for the people of Gaza? How do we think that this attack on World Central Kitchen is going to impact how food, medicine, aid is distributed there?

So the World Central Kitchen has said that it’s suspending its operations across Gaza. Because it essentially seems that they don’t feel they can safely operate there right now. And several ships that carried aid for the organization, which were sort of just on the coast — those ships ended up turning back to Cyprus, carrying more than 200 tons of aid.

So aid that was supposed to reach the people of Gaza is now leaving Gaza because of this attack.

Yes. And it’s also had a chilling effect. Another aid group, named INARA, has also suspended its operations in Gaza. And it seems that there is concern among humanitarians that other aid groups could follow.

So in a place where people are already suffering from severe hunger, poor sanitation, the spread of dangerous disease, this is only going to make the humanitarian situation, which is already dire, even worse.

Well, Adam, thank you very much. We appreciate it.

Thanks so much for having me.

We’ll be right back.

Here’s what else you need to know today. The magnitude-7.4 earthquake that struck Taiwan on Wednesday has killed nine people, injured more than 1,000, and touched off several landslides. It was Taiwan’s strongest quake in the past 25 years. But in a blessing for the island’s biggest cities, its epicenter was off the island’s east coast, relatively far from population centers like Taipei.

And the first patient to receive a kidney transplant from a genetically modified pig has fared so well that he was discharged from a Massachusetts hospital on Wednesday just two weeks after surgery. Two previous transplants from genetically modified pigs both failed. Doctors say the success of the latest surgery represents a major moment in medicine that, if replicated, could usher in a new era of organ transplantation.

Today’s episode was produced by Lynsea Garrison, Olivia Natt, and Carlos Prieto, with help from Asthaa Chaturvedi. It was edited by Marc Georges, with help from Paige Cowett, contains original music by Marion Lozano and Dan Powell, and was engineered by Chris Wood. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly.

That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Michael Barbaro. See you tomorrow.

• April 5, 2024   •   29:11 An Engineering Experiment to Cool the Earth
• April 4, 2024   •   32:37 Israel’s Deadly Airstrike on the World Central Kitchen
• April 3, 2024   •   27:42 The Accidental Tax Cutter in Chief
• April 2, 2024   •   29:32 Kids Are Missing School at an Alarming Rate
• April 1, 2024   •   36:14 Ronna McDaniel, TV News and the Trump Problem
• March 29, 2024   •   48:42 Hamas Took Her, and Still Has Her Husband
• March 28, 2024   •   33:40 The Newest Tech Start-Up Billionaire? Donald Trump.
• March 27, 2024   •   28:06 Democrats’ Plan to Save the Republican House Speaker
• March 26, 2024   •   29:13 The United States vs. the iPhone
• March 25, 2024   •   25:59 A Terrorist Attack in Russia
• March 24, 2024   •   21:39 The Sunday Read: ‘My Goldendoodle Spent a Week at Some Luxury Dog ‘Hotels.’ I Tagged Along.’
• March 22, 2024   •   35:30 Chuck Schumer on His Campaign to Oust Israel’s Leader

Hosted by Michael Barbaro

Featuring Kim Severson and Adam Rasgon

Produced by Lynsea Garrison ,  Olivia Natt ,  Carlos Prieto and Asthaa Chaturvedi

Edited by Marc Georges and Paige Cowett

Original music by Dan Powell and Marion Lozano

Engineered by Chris Wood

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music

The Israeli airstrike that killed seven workers delivering food in Gaza has touched off global outrage and condemnation.

Kim Severson, who covers food culture for The Times, discusses the World Central Kitchen, the aid group at the center of the story; and Adam Rasgon, who reports from Israel, explains what we know about the tragedy so far.

On today’s episode

Kim Severson , a food correspondent for The New York Times.

Adam Rasgon , an Israel correspondent for The New York Times.

Background reading

The relief convoy was hit just after workers had delivered tons of food .

José Andrés, the Spanish chef who founded World Central Kitchen, and his corps of cooks have become leaders in disaster aid .

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

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The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

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Kim Severson is an Atlanta-based reporter who covers the nation’s food culture and contributes to NYT Cooking . More about Kim Severson

Adam Rasgon reports from Israel for The Times's Jerusalem bureau. More about Adam Rasgon

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