- Overview: Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast, and Puglia
- Days 1 – 3: Rome
- Where to stay for 2 days in Rome
- Day 1: Historical Rome
- Morning: Colosseum and Roman Forum
- Lunch: Near the Forum
- Afternoon: Pantheon and Piazza Navona
- Evening: Trevi Fountain and Dinner in the Historic Center
- Morning: The Vatican
- Lunch: Prati District
- Afternoon: Castel Sant’Angelo and the Spanish Steps
- Evening: Dinner in Piazza del Popolo
- One day in Naples
- Where to stay in Naples
- Late Morning: Historic Naples
- Lunch: Napoli Street Food
- Afternoon: Naples Museums
- Evening: Waterfront and Dinner
- Pompeii
- Positano
- Capri Island
- Herculaneum
- Where to stay in Puglia
- What to do in Puglia
- Day 1 – 3 Rome
- Day 3 – 5 Amalfi Coast
- Day 5 – 10 Sicily
- Last Day – Go to the airport
How to get around
The two itineraries described below are aimed at those who want to travel by car or by train & bus.
Driving around Italy is not too difficult, and it allows you to be flexible.
Book your car in advance if you want the best prices (who doesn’t?).
Discover Cars is a great aggregator helping you save up to 70% on your car rental.
Moreover, they have a pretty good Cancellation policy that gives you options in case your flight or travel plans change. Get your offers here!
If you would rather go by train or bus, Bookaway is your getaway for trains, buses, and flights. I suggest using it, especially when booking tickets for Italy and Germany . Calculate your train fare here!
Option 1: 10 Day Southern Italy Itinerary by Car
Overview: Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast, and Puglia
- Day 1 – 3 Rome
- Day 3 – 6 Naples & The Amalfi Coast (Pompeii, Herculaneum, Capri Island)
- Day 6 – 10 Puglia (Matera, Bari, Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, Monopoli)
Traveling by car will allow you to make the best out of your trip. Even though I would always choose to travel by train in the northern part of the country, public transportation connections in the south aren’t so great.
However, it doesn’t mean it is impossible to create an itinerary by train—you’ll find one if you keep on reading—but it will take longer, and you’d have to skip some destinations.
Thus, the first itinerary we have prepared for you assumes that you land in Rome, follow the itinerary by car, and fly out from Bari eventually. Don’t worry; there are plenty of flight options to and from both destinations.
Days 1 – 3: Rome
You should begin your 10 day southern Italy itinerary in the place everything started: Rome. Spending 2 nights and almost 3 days in Italy’s capital will give you enough time to get a taste of the Eternal City.
Where to stay for 2 days in Rome
Rome is a large city with plenty of accommodation options. Here are my top choices:
Day 1: Historical Rome
Morning: Colosseum and Roman Forum
Start your day early at the Colosseum, the iconic amphitheater where gladiator contests used to take place. Visit the adjacent Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome.
Powered by GetYourGuideRead the complete guide for visiting the Colosseum and the Roman Forum!
Lunch: Near the Forum
You must be exhausted by now. You should consider lunch. There are plenty of restaurants southwest of the Forum, toward the river.
Afternoon: Pantheon and Piazza Navona
Pantheon: Visit the Pantheon, the well-preserved ancient Roman temple with a remarkable dome. Marvel at the Oculus, which is located at the center of the dome. Book your fast-track ticket with an audio guide!
Powered by GetYourGuidePiazza Navona: Stroll to Piazza Navona, a lively square with beautiful fountains, outdoor cafes, and street performers.
Evening: Trevi Fountain and Dinner in the Historic Center
Trevi Fountain: Make a wish at Trevi, one of the most famous fountains in the world. It’s especially enchanting when illuminated at night.
Dinner in Centro Storico: Enjoy dinner at one of the many charming restaurants in the historic center.
Day 2: Vatican City and Cultural Highlights
Morning: The Vatican
Vatican City: Begin your day at Vatican City. Explore St. Peter’s Basilica and climb to the top for a stunning view of the city. Just make sure you are properly dressed: long-sleeved shirt and pants / below-the-knee dress, no flip-flops or generous cleavage.
Vatican Museums: Visit the Vatican Museums, home to an extensive collection of art, including the Sistine Chapel. Be sure to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
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Lunch: Prati District
Prati District: Head to the Prati district for lunch. This area has a mix of local trattorias and international restaurants.
Afternoon: Castel Sant’Angelo and the Spanish Steps
Castel Sant’Angelo: Walk to Castel Sant’Angelo, a historic fortress with a fascinating history. Enjoy the views of the Tiber River.
Spanish Steps: Visit the Spanish Steps and the nearby shopping area of Via dei Condotti for some leisurely shopping or people-watching.
Evening: Dinner in Piazza del Popolo
Dinner in Piazza del Popolo: Have dinner in Piazza del Popolo, a large square with a vibrant atmosphere
Night-time Views: For a stunning nighttime view of Rome, head to a panoramic viewpoint like the Pincio Terrace in Villa Borghese or the Janiculum Hill.
Day 3 – 6 Naples & The Amalfi Coast (Pompeii, Herculaneum, Capri Island)
One day in Naples
After breakfast in Rome, drive to Naples; it is a 2.5-hour journey.
Since you’ll have less than a day to explore the city, you’ll want to focus on Naples’ highlights, including its historical sites, vibrant neighborhoods, and delicious cuisine.
Here’s an overview of your suggested itinerary for a day in Naples:
Where to stay in Naples
Stay in Spaccanapoli, the Historical Center, or Lungomare Caracciolo. These are good areas, relatively close to the town’s best attractions.
Late Morning: Historic Naples
Start at Spaccanapoli: Begin your day by exploring Spaccanapoli, a narrow, bustling street that cuts through the historic center of Naples. Admire the vibrant atmosphere, local shops, and historic churches.
Naples Cathedral (Duomo di Napoli): Visit the Naples Cathedral, which is dedicated to San Gennaro, the city’s patron saint. The cathedral is known for its beautiful frescoes and the Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro.
Lunch: Napoli Street Food
Pizzeria da Michele: For a true Neapolitan pizza experience, head to Pizzeria da Michele. This historic pizzeria, featured in the movie “Eat Pray Love,” is known for its simple but delicious Margherita and Marinara pizzas.
Afternoon: Naples Museums
Naples National Archaeological Museum: Spend your afternoon at the Naples National Archaeological Museum, home to an impressive collection of Greco-Roman antiquities, including artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Castel dell’Ovo: Visit Castel dell’Ovo, a seaside castle with panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples. Stroll along the seafront promenade and enjoy the picturesque setting.
Evening: Waterfront and Dinner
Lungomare: Take a leisurely walk along Via Partenope and Lungomare, the waterfront promenade. Enjoy views of the sea, Mount Vesuvius, and the iconic Castel dell’Ovo.
Dinner in Chiaia or Vomero: Choose a neighborhood like Chiaia or Vomero for dinner. These areas offer a variety of restaurants serving Neapolitan and Italian cuisine. Consider trying local specialties like pasta with ragù, seafood dishes, or sfogliatella for dessert.
Nightlife (Optional):
Piazza Bellini: If you’re up for some evening entertainment, head to Piazza Bellini. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and live music venues.
Days 4 – 6 Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
A short drive from Naples, you’ll find your new base in Sorrento. From here, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the most beautiful attractions on the Amalfi Coast.
Where to stay in Sorrento
Luxury hotels: Grand Hotel Aminta and Bellevue Syrene Hotel
Mid-Range Hotels: Al Parco Verde B&B and Hotel Villa Fiorita
Apartments: Casa Gilda Sorrento and Mediterranean Suites – Old Town
If you are not yet convinced, this comprehensive comparison will help you decide whether to stay in Sorrento or Positano.
Now that you have a place to stay let’s focus on what you can do in and around Sorrento.
Pompeii
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, Pompeii was an ancient Roman city located near the Bay of Naples.
The city thrived until it was tragically buried under layers of ash and pumice during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Frozen in time for centuries, the remarkably preserved ruins provide an unparalleled glimpse into daily life during the heyday of the Roman Empire.
You can wander through the well-preserved streets, explore ancient houses with magnificent frescoes, and marvel at the intricate mosaics that adorn public spaces.
The Forum, the heart of Pompeii’s civic and social life, the grand amphitheater, and the haunting casts of the volcano’s victims add to the site’s historical and emotional significance.
It is no wonder it is one of the most sought-after attractions in Italy. I suggest you book your ticket in advance, or you risk missing out. The place is sold out most of the days during the season.
Powered by GetYourGuidePositano
One of the most famous villages on the Amalfi Coast, Positano, is stunningly beautiful and hard to miss.
There are colorful houses perched on the hill, fancy restaurants that offer delicious meals, and narrow streets with great views. Make sure you arrive from the sea and admire the beauty of this place.
Powered by GetYourGuideCapri Island
Live like an emperor for a day! One day on the island of Capri will allow you enough time to see the most famous attractions.
Arrival at Marina Grande: Start your day by arriving at Marina Grande, Capri’s main port. Enjoy the view of colorful houses clinging to the cliffs and the azure waters.
Funicular to Capri Town: Take the funicular up to Capri Town. Once there, explore the chic boutiques, cafes, and the lively Piazzetta, the main square.
Gardens of Augustus: Walk in the Gardens of Augustus for breathtaking views of the Faraglioni rock formations and the sea. The gardens are adorned with lush vegetation and flowers.
Lunch in Capri Town: Choose one of the local restaurants for a delicious Italian lunch. Seafood dishes are often a highlight.
Bus to Anacapri: Take a bus or taxi to Anacapri, the quieter part of the island. Explore the charming streets and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
Chairlift to Mount Solaro: For panoramic views, take the chairlift to the summit of Mount Solaro, the highest point on the island. The breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of Naples and the Amalfi Coast are worth the journey.
Faraglioni Viewpoint: Return to Capri Town and enjoy the scenic view of the Faraglioni rocks. This area is particularly enchanting during sunset.
Dinner in Marina Grande: Head back to Marina Grande for dinner. Many waterfront restaurants offer delicious seafood dishes. Enjoy the sea breeze and the magical atmosphere of Capri at night.
Alternatively, you can book a tour and visit Capri with a professional guide.
Powered by GetYourGuideHerculaneum
Herculaneum, a lesser-known but equally compelling archaeological site, lies at the base of Mount Vesuvius. It is actually my husband’s favorite site and a place of inspiration for describing life in the Roman Empire in his historical mystery books.
While Pompeii was home to the upper classes, Herculaneum had a more balanced demographic structure. So, modern visitors can see not only the villas of the rich and powerful but also the more modest dwellings, shops, and entertainment venues of Average Jane and Joe.
Much like its more famous neighbor, Pompeii, Herculaneum was a thriving Roman city until the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD, which buried it under layers of ash and volcanic material.
What sets Herculaneum apart is its remarkably well-preserved state, with untouched buildings, colorful frescoes, and even wooden structures that survived due to the pyroclastic flow that engulfed the city.
Powered by GetYourGuideDay 6 – 10 Puglia (Matera, Bari, Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, Monopoli)
You are halfway through your 10 day southern Italy itinerary. It is time to switch coasts.
Drive from the Amalfi Coast all the way to Puglia on the east coast.
Situated on the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia is known for its charming whitewashed villages, olive groves, and stunning coastline along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.
The region boasts a rich historical heritage, evident in the trulli houses of Alberobello, the Baroque architecture of Lecce, and the ancient cave dwellings in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site just across the border in Basilicata.
Puglia is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering delectable cuisine featuring fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and the region’s prized olive oil.
Where to stay in Puglia
You will want to be mobile during your 4 days in Puglia, so you must choose the perfect location for your base camp.
During my 4 days in Puglia, I stayed in Alberobello, but I would also recommend Polignano a Mare or Monopoli.
Here are a few of my top accommodation recommendations:
Masseria Alchimia – enjoy the most authentic and fresh Italian breakfast only a few kilometers away from Polignano a Mare in a stylish and immaculate location. Book your perfect room here!
Hotel Don Ferrante – who wouldn’t want to experience staying within the walls of Monopoli? This 10-room boutique hotel will not only charm you with its design but also with its rooftop terrace and pool overlooking the blue. See when they have free rooms here!
Trullieu Guesthouse Alberobello – even though the trullo guesthouse is located extremely close to Alberobello’s center, it is still hidden from all the noise and fuss. And it also has free parking spaces nearby. Book your stay in a trullo here!
What to do in Puglia
Go on a day trip to Matera
Getting from Bari to Matera or any other place in Puglia is not at all difficult, and the city is so charming that you won’t regret taking the trip.
Carved into the limestone cliffs, the Sassi di Matera forms a unique urban landscape that has earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage status. These stone-carved homes, churches, and cave dwellings date back centuries and showcase the resilience and resourcefulness of Matera’s inhabitants throughout history.
Powered by GetYourGuideExplore the streets of Monopoli
You should visit the Castle of Charles V, the Palmieri Palace, or simply drink a cocktail on the picturesque waterfront.
See the trulli in Alberobello
The trulii are traditional Apulian dry stone huts with conical roofs. Alberobello is particularly famous for its dense concentration of trulli. It has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its unique architecture.
Go for an olive oil tasting in Ostuni and explore the city.
Last day – Drive to Bari Airport
Alas, all good things come to an end, including your 10 day southern Italy itinerary.
As you leave your car at Bari Airport, I hope you’ll look back satisfied with the unforgettable journey you have just completed. And remember, you can always come back for another Italian adventure!
Option 2: 10 Day Southern Italy Itinerary by Train & Bus & Plane
Day 1 – 3 Rome
While in Rome, I suggest you keep the itinerary described above.
Day 3 – 5 Amalfi Coast
Take the train to Naples, Sorrento, or Salerno (fast train) for the Amalfi Coast. For more details on the sights, please consult the previous section.
Day 5 – 10 Sicily
Instead of heading for Italy’s east coast halfway through your 10 day southern Italy itinerary, you should fly from Naples to beautiful Sicily.
Sicily is rather large, so you should focus on one of its halves instead of aiming to cover the entire island.
Thus, you should base yourself either in Catania (on Sicily’s east coast) or Palermo (on the west coast) and drive around from there.
There are so many things to do in Sicily that you’ll have your hands full no matter where you stay.
From Catania, you can climb Mount Etna. Or go and explore Taormina, one of the most charming villages in Sicily.
You should consider visiting Syracuse and walking the storied streets of Ortigia Island. If you are into movies, you should check out the filming sites of the Godfather movie in Messina.
Palermo itself could be a destination worth visiting for two days. Among its many sights, our favorites are the Norman Castle, the Palermo Cathedral, and the Teatro Massimo Opera House. Then, you can relax at Mondello Beach.
From Palermo, you can take day trips to the picturesque village of Cefalu, the beaches at San Vito Lo Capo, or the salt marshes at Trapani.
For a detailed Sicily itinerary, I suggest you check out my relevant post here.
Last Day – Go to the airport
Your 10 day southern Italy itinerary reached its conclusion. Time to say goodbye to Italy for now.
Arrivederci! Hope to see you soon!
When is the Best Time for Your 10 Day Southern Italy Itinerary?
Anytime is a good time, as far as we are concerned :).
However, to get the best of everything Southern Italy has to offer, you should visit either during Spring or early Autumn.
July and August are very hot and crowded, while during the winter months, many places are closed.
During Spring (March-May), the weather is pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging from comfortable to warm. The countryside is in full bloom, and outdoor attractions are less crowded than during the peak summer months. Spring is an excellent time for sightseeing, exploring historical sites, and enjoying outdoor activities.
In Autumn (September-November), the weather is still pleasant, with warm temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the summer peak. Autumn is an ideal time for enjoying outdoor activities, such as hiking and exploring the countryside, and it’s also harvest season, meaning you can indulge in fresh local produce and wines.
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