Naples is a fabulous city to visit. What makes it even better is the amazing amount and variety of day trips you can take from Naples, each promising to elevate your vacation from memorable to unforgettable. These aren’t just any day trip destinations; they’re a carefully curated collection of wonders, guaranteed to enchant and inspire every traveler who ventures forth.
This list was made by taking many Naples day trips and having many journeys of discovery. It involved combing through traveler reviews, engaging with seasoned tour guides, and research. It was important to us that each location wasn’t just another pin on the map but a true gem, ripe with culture, history, and natural beauty.
In writing this list, I was reminded of the heart of Italy’s allure — its capacity to surprise and captivate. From the spellbinding ruins that whisper tales of ancient empires to the serene landscapes that seem to dance with colors, Italy is a mosaic of experiences.
Naples, with its vibrant streets and soul-stirring landscapes, serves as the perfect base camp for these explorations. It’s not just about seeing new places; it’s about the stories you collect and the moments that take your breath away.
As we delve into this article, I invite you to imagine strolling through picturesque villages, savoring authentic local cuisine, and standing amidst historical sites that have witnessed the passage of centuries. These day trips from Naples are more than just excursions; they’re gateways to experiences that enrich, educate, and entertain.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply someone seeking beauty in new horizons, there’s something here for you. Let’s embark on this journey together, discovering sights that will etch themselves into your heart and memories.
Top 10 Unmissable Day Trips From Naples
Pompeii and Herculaneum – Immersed in Antiquity’s Ash
Pompeii and Herculaneum stand as open-air museums, encapsulating a tragic yet fascinating moment in history. Frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, these ancient cities offer an intimate glimpse into Roman daily life, architecture, and society.
Walk along the ancient streets of Pompeii to see the ruins of homes, forums, and baths, or visit Herculaneum for a closer look at preserved wooden structures and stunning mosaics. You’ll stand in the very heart of history, imagining the moments leading up to the fateful volcanic eruption.
Getting to these sites from Naples is straightforward; Pompeii is accessible via the Circumvesuviana rail line from Napoli Centrale to Pompeii Scavi, taking around 30-45 minutes, while Ercolano Scavi station, closer to Herculaneum, is just a 20-minute journey. These destinations are not just tours; they are vivid history lessons.
Click here for a handy day tour to Pompeii and Herculaneum as well as Vesuvius from Naples.
Sorrento – A Cliffside Spectacle
Sorrento mesmerizes with its cliff-top setting overlooking the Bay of Naples, serving as a doorway to the Amalfi Coast’s wonders. This picturesque town is celebrated for its lemon groves, breathtaking sea views, and the charming Piazza Tasso brimming with cafes and shops.
Wander down to Marina Grande, a quaint fishing village within Sorrento, or visit the historic San Francesco Church.
The Circumvesuviana train from Naples takes you straight to Sorrento in about an hour, offering a scenic route that transitions from urban landscapes to coastal charms. Sorrento encapsulates the essence of the Mediterranean lifestyle, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking beauty, culinary delights, and a touch of romance in their day trip.
Capri – An Island Escape
The allure of Capri lies in its dramatic coastal cliffs, the mysterious Blue Grotto, and its jet-set vibe. A day trip to this island is a journey into a world of natural beauty enhanced by glamorous associations and historical sites like the ruins of Emperor Tiberius’ Villa Jovis.
The ferry from Naples docks at Marina Grande, from where you can take the funicular up to Capri town to enjoy its boutiques, gardens, and panoramic vistas. Don’t miss the chance to boat around the island, entering the ethereal glow of the Blue Grotto, or to take a chairlift to the top of Mount Solaro for the best views.
Ferries to Capri depart from the Port of Naples, with the journey taking about 45 minutes to an hour, inviting you to experience the essence of La Dolce Vita.
Click here for a handy day tour to Capri from Naples.
Amalfi Coast – A Scenic Masterpiece
The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a symphony of colors, from the azure Tyrrhenian Sea to the lush greenery and the pastel-colored villages perched on steep cliffs. Iconic towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello each tell a story through their winding streets, historic cathedrals, and sun-soaked beaches.
Experience the sublime beauty of the coastline either by bus from Sorrento or by ferry directly from Naples, offering stunning views from the sea.
A day spent here includes tasting the local cuisine, exploring vibrant streets, and soaking in views that seem to leap out of a postcard. It’s a paradise for photographers, romantics, and anyone looking to capture the quintessence of Italy’s coastal allure.
Click here for our full guide to the Amalfi Coast or click here for a day tour from Naples to the Amalfi Coast.
Mount Vesuvius – Conquering the Crater
Mount Vesuvius, the notorious volcano that reshaped history, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. A hike to its crater provides a panoramic view not just of the Bay of Naples, but also an eerie oversight of the lands it once devastated.
The journey involves a bus ride from Naples to the Vesuvius National Park, followed by a trek to the summit.
This experience isn’t merely about conquering a natural landmark; it’s a walk through time, offering insights into the geologic forces that have shaped human history. Vesuvius stands as a reminder of nature’s might but also as a place of stunning beauty and profound peace.
Click here for a handy day tour to Pompeii and Herculaneum as well as Vesuvius from Naples.
Caserta – The Italian Versailles
The Royal Palace of Caserta, with its grand architecture and vast, intricately designed gardens, mirrors the splendor of the most famed European courts. Just a short train ride from Naples, this palace, often called the ‘Versailles of Italy,’ is a testament to the grandeur of the Bourbon Kings.
Its opulent interiors, adorned with frescoes and luxurious furnishings, and the expansive park with fountains and an English garden, offer a peek into royal life.
Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site is stepping into a realm of architectural magnificence and historical opulence, making it a worthwhile day trip for history enthusiasts and lovers of beauty alike.
Click here for a handy day tour to Caserta Royal Palace from Naples.
Ischia – The Thermal Paradise
The island of Ischia, accessible via ferry from Naples, is a haven of thermal spas, lush gardens, and beautiful beaches. It’s a place where nature’s healing powers are evident in the thermal waters and rich vegetation, offering a respite from the bustle of city life.
Beyond relaxation, Ischia presents the Aragonese Castle, the charming village of Sant’Angelo, and the verdant Mortella Gardens.
This island isn’t just a spa getaway; it’s a comprehensive experience of nature’s bounty, historical depth, and serene beauty. The ferry ride itself is an invitation to unwind as you cross the blue waters, setting the stage for a day of rejuvenation.
Click here for a handy day tour to Ischia and Procida from Naples.
Procida – A Vivid Tableau
Procida, with its vibrant fishermen houses and tranquil harbors, is an ode to Italian seaside charm. As the Bay of Naples’ smallest island, it offers an intimate experience of coastal life, untouched by the grandiosity of tourist crowds, although that is changing.
A short ferry journey from Naples, colorful Procida captures the heart with its colorful Marina Corricella, the Terra Murata historical complex, and panoramic views from Terra di Graziella.
It’s a rare glimpse into a lifestyle that revolves around the sea, tradition, and simplicity. Procida is the essence of understated beauty, inviting visitors to savor a slower pace of life and the joys of simple pleasures.
Click here for a handy day tour to Ischia and Procida from Naples.
Baia – An Underwater Odyssey
The sunken city of Baia, now part of an underwater archaeological park, brings to life the lavishness of Roman society and the power of nature’s transformations. A boat trip from Naples leads to diving or snorkeling adventures among the submerged ruins of ancient Roman villas and baths, revealing mosaics, statues, and the infrastructure of luxury of yesteryears.
Baia was once a place where the Roman elite came to relax and revel in thermal spas, a testament to the grandiosity that now rests beneath the waves. This underwater exploration is not just a dive into the sea but a journey through time, offering a unique perspective on history, geology, and the allure of exploration.
It’s a unique destination that is amazing to explore.
Click here for a great glass bottom boat tour of Baia
The Phlegraean Fields – A Mythic Vista
The Phlegraean Fields, a vast volcanic area brimming with legends, is a landscape defined by its craters, mofette, Sulphuric fumes, and ruins dating back to antiquity. Just a metro or bus ride from Naples, this ‘Land of Fire’ encapsulates the drama of Earth’s inner forces and the myths of ancient civilizations.
Visitors can explore the Flavian Amphitheater, the third-largest Roman amphitheater in Italy, the ancient Greek site of Cumae, and the Solfatara Volcano, which visually and sensuously impresses the forces beneath our feet.
The Phlegraean Fields are more than a geological wonder; they are a narrative of mythology, history, and the ongoing dance of Earth’s creation and destruction.
Click here for a handy day tour to Phlegraean Fields from Naples.
The area surrounding Naples offers an incredible array of destinations that cater to diverse interests, from the archaeological wonders of Pompeii and Herculaneum to the breathtaking natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and the serene allure of the island of Capri. Each destination presents an opportunity to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty that defines this region of Italy.
Embarking on these day trips from Naples not only enriches your travel experience but also provides a fuller understanding of the Italian way of life, past and present. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, wandering through picturesque towns, or simply soaking in the stunning landscapes, these destinations promise unforgettable adventures that highlight the best of what the Campania region has to offer.
Find more guides to Southern Italy here or click here to read all about the Puglia region. Find our fantastic itinerary for Sicily here.
