Check out the best day trips from Naples, Italy + info on the best tours & how to get there on your own. Pompeii, wine tours, Amalfi Coast … your choice!
Naples, Italy – what does this name bring to mind? Pizza? Chaos? Clothes drying in the street? Maradona? Mafia? Despite being the recipient of many clichès, Naples is a place that should absolutely be on your Italy itinerary.
I, born and raised in Italy, personally think that Naples is underrated and would urge you to spend a few days in this unique city.
However, Naples is also a perfect base to explore the rest of Southern Italy, as it’s well connected to most major cities in the area and close to some of Italy’s most important landmarks, like the ruins of Pompeii or the dashing island of Capri.
Read on to find inspiration in these amazing 13 day trips from Naples, and make sure to plan an extra few days in the city to make them happen!
Table of Contents
BEST DAY TRIPS FROM NAPLES
Pompeii
The ancient city of Pompeii is likely the most historical place to visit from Naples – and possibly the most unique! Buried in pumice and ash in 79 AD, after the Vesuvius volcano erupted and engulfed it completely, Pompeii remained undiscovered until the 16th century and therefore very well preserved.
The ruins you’ll get to wander around during your day trip to Pompeii from Naples include the Roman ruins of an Amphitheater from the 1st century BC, the splendid Villa dei Misteri which boasts a beautiful series of frescos, public baths, and the remains of several houses
One of the most impressive attractions, though, are the plaster casts depicting the citizens in the position in which they died.
How To Get to Pompeii from Naples
It’s easy to get to Pompeii from Naples on your own. To get to Pompeii by public transport from Naples, you’ll have to take the train. The journey takes 30 minutes and you’ll be dropped off right in front of the archaeological site. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE
Best Tours to Pompeii from Naples
I’ve written a dedicated post about the very best Pompeii tours from Naples, but if you’re in a hurry, these are the best.
▶️ Discover the fascinating UNESCO-listed ruins on this Pompeii Half-day Guided Tour from Naples. Enjoy fast-track entry and priority access to explore the main highlights of the site, such as the Forum, piazza, thermal baths, and brothel. The tour includes transportation via an air-conditioned minibus. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Explore Pompeii’s ruins and climb Mount Vesuvius on this Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius with Pizza or Wine Tasting minivan tour. Skip the lines at both attractions and learn about the history of the ancient Roman city and the volcanic activity of Vesuvius from a volcanologist guide. You can choose to include a pizza lunch or wine tasting on the tour. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Experience the beauty of the Amalfi Coast and the history of Pompeii on this Pompeii & Amalfi Coast Day Trips with Lunch from Naples. With skip-the-line tickets, explore the archaeological site with a guide. Then, drive along the coast and stop at a scenic location for the best view of Positano. You’ll have free time to explore the town of Amalfi. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Capri
Capri is a staggering island in the Bay of Naples, 21 miles off the city. It’s well-known for its upscale shops and boutiques, fine dining, and impressive resorts, but it also boasts amazing natural wonders worth exploring.
Home to three amazing sea caves (grottoes), a famous meandering road that was carved on the side of the cliff, lush gardens with jaw-dropping views, and very beautiful architecture, Capri is also the setting for a very lively social scene and nightlife.
Taking a boat tour around the island, swimming in the grottoes, exploring the town of Anacapri, and taking the chairlift to Mount Solaro are some of the unmissable activities in Capri Island.
How To Get to Capri from Naples
If you plan on doing the Naples to Capri day trip on your own, you’ll have to catch the ferry at the Port of Naples. The ferry ride takes 50 minutes, and there are around 15 crossings every day. The one-way transfer costs 25€ at the time of writing. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKET HERE
Best Tours to Capri from Naples
▶️ Join the Gulf of Naples & Capri Sightseeing Boat Tour to soak up the breathtaking views of the bay. Marvel at stunning sea caves like the White and Green Grotto and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters near the iconic Faraglioni Rocks. You’ll also have 3-4 hours of leisure time to explore Capri on foot. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Embark on this Island of Capri Full-Day Tour to visit one of the most enchanting destinations in the area on a hydrofoil. Explore with a guide the colorful streets of Anacapri, the Piazzetta, Via Tregara, and the Gardens of Augustus, and visit the Blue Grotto (optional). The tour includes lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
If you’re looking for something different, check out this list of Capri tours from Naples.
Royal Palace of Caserta
The Royal Palace of Caserta is a magnificent former royal residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the biggest of its kind in the world. The palace was built in the early 1750s to rival Versailles, and it’s located in the city of Caserta, 24 miles north of Naples.
The palace’s gardens are its most beautiful attribute, but the stunning park, the aqueduct, the fountains, and the palace itself aren’t far behind. There’s even a silk factory onsite! Visiting the whole site, which spans over 11 acres, takes quite a few hours, so it’s a perfect day trip destination from Naples.
How To Get to the Royal Palace of Caserta from Naples
To get to the Royal Palace you’ll have to catch the train from Naples to Caserta. The trip takes between 30 and 45 minutes and it costs 4€. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE
Best Tour to the Royal Palace of Caserta from Naples
▶️ Escape to the grandeur of the Royal Palace of Caserta with a Half Day Trip from Naples. Travel comfortably with a shuttle bus and skip the line with a priority ticket. Spend 3 hours exploring the palace and its enchanting gardens on your own. Pass through the Royal Apartments and admire the grandeur of the royal bedroom and giant ballroom. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Mount Vesuvius
The infamous Mount Vesuvius is regarded as one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world due to its closeness to a population of over 3 million people who could be affected by an eruption, including the city of Naples.
While it’s still an active volcano, its last eruption was in 1944, and its dormant state is such that it’s even safe to climb to the top! While checking it out from a distance is impressive enough, the highlight of a visit to Mt. Vesuvius is actually hiking up to the rim to soak in the views from the top and learn about the volcano’s stages and history.
How To Get to Mount Vesuvius from Naples
Getting to Mount Vesuvius from Naples couldn’t be easier. Since the volcano is nearby Pompeii, you can take the Circumvesuviana train from Napoli Centrale to Pompeii, and you’ll find the Vesuvius ticket booth right next to the train station.
The journey takes 30 minutes, and there are several departures throughout the day. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE
Best Tours to Mount Vesuvius from Naples
If you prefer to visit the volcano on a Mount Vesuvius tour, you’ve got plenty of choices.
▶️ Ascend 1,000 meters above sea level with this Day Trip to Mount Vesuvius, in which you’l climb to the summit on a half-day tour. Enjoy a panoramic shuttle bus ride, soak in breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples, and watch for local wildlife. Hike to the crater and learn about the volcano from your volcanological and alpine guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Uncover the secrets of the ancient Roman city of Pompeii and the fiery volcano that destroyed it on this Pompeii Ruins & Mount Vesuvius Day Tour. Walk through the preserved streets of Pompeii, then enjoy pizza for lunch. After lunch, stand at the top of Mount Vesuvius and take in the breathtaking view. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Amalfi Coast
Amalfi Coast is the gem of the Sorrentine Peninsula, and an absolute must-visit if you’re in the area. While you could spend a few days on the Coast to visit its towns and see some of the best attractions it offers, a day trip from Naples is a great substitute if you don’t have more time.
The Amalfi Coast often gets confused with Positano or Amalfi, when in reality it’s a stretch of coastline that comprises said towns and 11 more.
Boasting stunning scenery of the rugged coast and the Bay of Naples, swimming coves and beaches, delicious food, and the most charming alleys and shops in the South of Italy, there’s a very good reason why the Amalfi Coast is so celebrated, and it offers a great number of activities for you to enjoy.
A day on the Amalfi Coast should include visits to both Positano and Amalfi, and to Ravello if you have time!
How To Get to the Amalfi Coast from Naples
A Naples to Amalfi Coast day trip is very easy to plan. Positano is the closest town to the city, and the most beautiful on the Coast, so it’s where you should head first.
To visit the Amalfi Coast you’ll have to take the train from Naples to Sorrento, and then catch a ferry from Sorrento to Positano. The overall journey should take you around 2 hours, although it can be longer if you take the regular train and ferry over the high-speed options. You can buy your train to Sorrento here, and the ferry from Sorrento to Positano here.
Best Tours to the Amalfi Coast from Naples
▶️ Visit the picturesque towns of Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi on this fantastic Amalfi Coast Full-Day Tour. You’ll enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way, taste the local limoncello and wander the narrow streets of each town on your own. Cap off the trip by having lunch on a terrace with breathtaking sea views. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Positano and Amalfi Boat Tour enables you to discover the Amalfi Coast from the sea. With a max of 12 passengers, it offers an intimate experience and the chance to swim, snorkel, and enjoy a limoncello tasting. Land visits to Amalfi and Positano offer time to explore before heading back to Naples. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Create your own itinerary and explore the stunning Amalfi Coast on this Private Tour to Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. With a private driver, you’ll depart from Naples and enjoy free time in the charming seaside town, you can discovering the region’s rich history, architecture, and cuisine at your own pace. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Not convinced? I’ve written a whole post about the best tours from Naples to the Amalfi Coast with a lot more options.
A Wine Tour from Naples
Good wine is a staple of Italy, and the fabulous number of vineyards and wineries around Naples means you won’t lack the delicious red liquid in your glass any day of the week. But what’s better than drinking wine is learning how the grapes are cultivated and the wine produced, all the while you’re sampling different varieties.
The Campania region, of which Naples is the capital, produces fantastic red and white wines among which stand out the Piedirosso and Aglianico varieties of red wine, and the whites Greco di Tufo and Fiano di Avellino.
Best Wine Tour from Naples
▶️ Get away from the city to sip on world-renowned wines while basking in the beauty of the Italian countryside on this Wine Tasting Tour on Vesuvius Volcano. Enjoy the scenic ride to the Campania Ars Vinearia winery, where you’ll learn about the area’s unique wine-making process. Indulge in a wine-tasting experience paired with a delicious Mediterranean lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
I’ve picked a few other great choices in a dedicated post on the best wine tasting & wine tours from Naples.
Herculaneum
Herculaneum is the second victim of the Vesuvius’ eruption that destroyed Pompeii, and one of the most impressive sites in Italy. Smaller and less famous than Pompeii, Herculaneum wasn’t discovered until two centuries later and it’s impressively well preserved.
Like Pompeii, the archaeological site displays the remains of buildings and objects, offering an incredible glimpse into the lifestyle and culture of the city before it was wiped from the earth by ash and pumice. You’ll also get to see the skeletons of the citizens found in Herculaneum during the excavations.
The buildings include Roman baths, a Boarding House, and a spectacular Mosaic Atrium.
How To Get to Herculaneum from Naples
To get to Herculaneum from Naples by public transport you’ll have to take the Circumvesuviana train to Ercolano. The trip lasts around 25 minutes, and you’ll be dropped off a short walk from the ruins at the Ercolano stop. ➥ BUY YOUR TRAIN TICKETS HERE
Best Tours to Herculaneum from Naples
▶️ Explore the ruins of Herculaneum with a local guide on this Half-Day Herculaneum Group Tour. Departing from Naples, it includes pick-up and round-trip transportation, so you can visit the archeological site without the hassle of a rental car. Marvel at the site’s thermal spas and striking mosaics and learn about its history on an unforgettable trip. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Explore the World Heritage Sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum on a Full-Day Sightseeing Tour from Naples. You’ll start touring the ruins of Pompeii with a guide, and then enjoy a hearty lunch. You’ll later head to Herculaneum where you can observe the daily life of the population in even more detail. All transfers and free time to explore the ruins on your own are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Fancy a trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum? How about climbing to the top of Mount Vesuvius? This private Day Trip Excursion offers a glimpse into the past with a visit to the excavation sites of both cities, as well as a walk to the crater of the volcano that buried them. Upgrade your experience with a tour guide, or go rogue and wander around on your own. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Sorrento
Sorrento technically isn’t part of the Amalfi Coast, but it’s considered a gateway to the area due to its closeness and easy access to it. This beautiful town boasts equally gorgeous views to those on the famous coast, delicious cuisine, innumerable lemon trees, and a very picturesque waterfront with cafés, bars, and restaurants where to sit down for a drink.
It’s a much more affordable destination than the Amalfi Coast, and among its attractions it features a lovely historic center, limoncello shops, a pebble beach, and Medieval architecture.
How To Get to Sorrento from Naples
Sorrento is a very short ride from Naples, and therefore one of the best day trip destinations. You can make the journey either by train or by ferry.
Trains depart from Napoli P. Garibaldi every 30 minutes starting at 5.57 AM, and arrive in Sorrento 1 to 1.5 hours later. The one-way journey costs as little as 5€. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE
If you’d rather take the ferry, you’ll be in Sorrento in less than 45 minutes. Tickets are much pricier, though, costing around 25€ per way, and the ferry frequency varies depending on the season. ➥ GET YOUR FERRY TICKETS HERE
Best Tour to Sorrento from Naples
Most tours to Sorrento are tours to the Amalfi Coast and only briefly pass by Sorrento. If you’re a fan of food and wine and limoncello, and maybe want to learn more about the lemons that Sorrento is famous for, you can have a great day in Sorrento.
What I’d personally do is get to Sorrento on my own (check the instructions above) and then I’d book a farm and limoncello tour. Sorrento is the perfect place for this type of experience.
▶️ Take a 3-hour Sorrento Farm and Food Experience you’ll discover the Italian farm-to-table process firsthand. You’ll visit a fourth-generation farm, stroll through fragrant olive and lemon groves, and learn about the art of making wine, oil, and honey.
Indulge in generous tastings of the farm’s products, including limoncello, and savor a filling lunch and dessert made with organic farm ingredients. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Ischia
Ischia is over four times bigger than Capri, but not as widely known or visited as its neighboring island. Situated in the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ischia features natural hot springs where you can soak in even in the winter months, sandy beaches, remains of ancient structures and a Medieval castle, and a very staggering hilly landscape that will star in all your pictures of the day.
High-end hotels and restaurants can also be found in Ischia, and you shouldn’t miss the mouth-watering local cuisine offered on the island, along with visiting all its viewpoints. The Naples to Ischia day trip will already be worth it if you do these two things!
How To Get to Ischia from Naples
The trip to Ischia has to be done by ferry, as the island is only reachable by sea. You can take the ferry at Naples port every day from 7.05 AM until 8.20 PM. The boat trip lasts 1 hour. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE
Best Tour to Ischia from Naples
▶️ Take a self-guided Ischia Day Trip to enjoy the lush green island and indulge in a scrumptious lunch at a typical Italian restaurant. You’ll have free time to visit the Aragonese Castle, soak up the Mediterranean vibe in the chic village of Sant’Angelo, or wander around before heading back. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Procida
Procida is a very small island in Italy situated right next to Ischia, so it’s a great idea to visit both on an Ischia + Procida day trip. Procida boasts a picturesque coastline dotted with colorful houses and beautiful beaches, and has incredible historical sites that will enchant history and architecture lovers.
The Medieval walled village of Terra Murata is one of the most important landmarks on the island, and its location on the highest point of Procida grants it unbelievable views. During your visit make sure to check out Marina di Corricella and the State Nature Reserve of Vivara Island, besides taking some time to swim and relax by the beach.
How To Get to Procida from Naples
Procida is only reachable from Naples by sea. It’s a short boat ride with the high-speed service (40 minutes) or up to 1.5 hours if you take the conventional boat. The ferry departs from Calata Porta di Massa around 20 times a day from 6 AM to 10 PM. ➥ BUY YOUR FERRY TICKETS HERE
Best Tour to Procida from Naples
▶️ Take a break from the hustle and bustle of Naples and join this fantastic Procida Island Day Trip. Explore the charming lemon groves and winding alleys at your own pace, refuel with a traditional three-course lunch, and visit the island’s oldest village, Terra Murata. You can also choose to soak up the harbor atmosphere of Corricella or Marina Grande. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Rome
Most people that visit Naples also have Rome on their itinerary, but if you don’t, you can go there on a day trip (although I suggest spending more days in Rome if you can!)
Known as the Eternal City, Rome has been the capital of Italy since 1871, although it dates all the way back to the 8th century BC. Rome is an incredibly charming city with many (many!) attractions to offer, which is why a day trip will not be enough to cover them all.
However, if this is your only chance to visit Rome, make sure you don’t miss the Colosseum, Piazza Trevi to throw a coin in the famous Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Castel Sant’Angelo. A trip to Travestere district for an aperitivo or early dinner is also highly recommended!
How To Get to Rome from Naples
The direct train from Naples to Rome takes one hour. Trains connect Napoli Centrale and Roma Termini train station two to three times an hour, and tickets cost around 13€ per way. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE
Best Tour to Rome from Naples
▶️ Make the most of your time in Rome with this Full-Day Guided Tour. Explore Rome’s iconic landmarks with a guide, including Piazza di Spagna, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, and the Colosseum. Enjoy some free time to discover the Vatican’s wonders, such as the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Round-trip transportation is included on a Mercedes V Class and a small-group experience ensures personalized attention. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Paestum
The ancient city of Paestum is of Greek origin and dates back to the 6th century BC. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city mainly consists of three temples named after Hera, Athena, and Neptune. While it’s their ruins that stand on the site today, they are all very well preserved and feature incredible Doric architecture.
You’ll also get to see the remains of several houses and squares, and I highly recommend you check out the archaeological museum onsite to understand more about the city and its history.
How To Get to Paestum from Naples
You should take a train to visit Paestum from Naples. Trains depart from Napoli Centrale and take close to 1.5 hours to arrive. The ticket costs 7€ at the time of writing. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKET HERE
Best Tour to Paestum from Naples
▶️ Discover ancient Greek and Roman temples on this Private Paestum and Mozzarella Farm Tour. The tour includes transportation in a deluxe, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver/guide. You’ll have free time to explore each spot on your own, starting with the UNESCO-listed Doric temples in Paestum. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
The Phlegraean Fields
The Phlegraean Fields is a region west of Naples known for its calderas, formed thousands of years ago after a volcanic eruption. A Regional Park since 2003, the area boasts 24 craters, some of which are covered by water and experience hydrothermal activity that you can get to witness during your visit.
The region is considered to be a single supervolcano, and while its last large eruption occurred 40 thousand years ago, there is the possibility of small-scale eruptions that would form more calderas in the future.
How To Get to the Phlegraean Fields from Naples
The Phlegraean Fields are very close to Naples, merely a 40-minute train ride away. To get there you’ll have to take the Ferrovia Cumana line at Montesanto train station (or Corso Vittorio Emanuele station if you stay in Naples Fuorigrotta or Mergellina neighborhoods) and get off at Pozzuoli, the main town in the Fields. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE
Best Tour to the Phlegraean Fields from Naples
▶️ Discover the Phlegrean Fields just outside Naples on a Scenic E-Bike Tour! Cycle along the picturesque coastline to the volcanic Lake Averno. Here you’ll enjoy a delicious winery lunch and wine tasting featuring local organic wines, then hop back on your bike. Suitable for riders with some experience. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
NAPLES DAY TRIPS FAQ
Yes, you can certainly visit Rome on a day trip from Naples. The cities are 140 miles apart and with the high-speed train, you can cover the distance in a little over an hour. You can also join a tour to avoid the hassle of planning and transportation!
Naples is a great starting point to go on a day trip to the Amalfi Coast. Located 34 miles (55 km) from Positano, it offers easy access to the famous coastline, and it’s a favored city to stay in for those visiting the Amalfi Coast on a budget.
You can travel from Naples to Pompeii by train, which covers the journey in 30 minutes. You’ll catch the train in Napoli Centrale, and get off right in front of the archaeological site, making the visit incredibly easy.
