ALL DAY TRIPS STARTING FROM THE AMALFI COAST
Are you on the Amalfi Coast and want to make sure you don't miss a single major tourist destination nearby? Find out what they are and how to reach them!
by Roberta Cascone
The Amalfi Coast has so much to offer visitors: the beauty of the villages, all rich in history and traditions, the spectacular views of the nature of the Lattari Mountains on one side and the sea of the Gulf of Salerno on the other, the museums and churches from every era in which to admire unparalleled works of art... in short, you name it! On the other hand, there is so much to see in its surroundings as well: in fact, the Coast is located in a strategic position in the Campania region, and some of Italy's most famous tourist attractions are located just a short distance away.
Pompeii, Paestum, the island of Capri and the enchanting Sorrento are all highly appealing destinations for those coming to this region and are definitely not to be missed!
So if you are thinking of visiting any of these places starting from the Amalfi Coast, read on to get all the information you need for your itinerary!
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A street in Pompeii
The eternal Pompeii
Pompeii Archaeological Park is one of the most visited open-air museums in Italy, with its 4 million admissions a year. For all history enthusiasts, it is a unique place in the world: only here can one admire the remains of a real Roman city and explore its stores, baths, houses and public buildings. What is even more extraordinary is the state of preservation in which everything has come down to the present day. And in fact, during the visit you will not only walk along the streets of the ancient Romans, but you will also be able to admire colorful frescoes, amazingly crafted mosaics, sculptures and artifacts from two thousand years ago. If you are intrigued, click here to learn more!
Pompeii is about 40 km from Amalfi. You can reach it in several ways: by car, crossing the Chiunzi Pass, it takes about an hour. By public transportation, on the other hand, it is worth starting from Salerno, where you have several options, including BusItalia buses and regional trains. Finally, you have the option of taking advantage of Travelmar's initiative, which organizes guided tours of the ancient city starting from Salerno, including ferry transfers from any port on the Coast! For all information click here.
The forum and the Villa of the Mysteries' frescoes in Pompeii
The enchanting Sorrento
The main city of the Sorrento Coast, Sorrento has been a popular tourist destination in recent years, thanks in part to its geographical location. From here, in fact, many tourist destinations can be reached in a short time: Naples, easily reached by Circumvesuviana trains; the island of Capri, with which it is well connected by daily ferries; and even the Amalfi Coast, thanks to Sita buses. In addition, the town itself is very welcoming and lively: restaurants, ice cream parlors and stores of all kinds open up along the main street (Corso Italia), and the belvedere of the Villa Comunale is one of the most spectacular on the entire Coast. Nearby you can also visit the Cloister and Church of St. Francis, dating back to the 14th century, which is a popular wedding venue for couples.
Corso Italia and Saint Francis Cloister in Sorrento. Ph by unsplash.com
The impressive Paestum
Another archaeological site of enormous importance is Paestum, a city of Greek origin located about 70 km from the Amalfi Coast. Here, too, we go back in time to the grandeur of Magna Graecia: you will be amazed at the magnificent temples of Doric origin, unique examples of Magna Graecia architecture in an incredible state of preservation. Click here for more details!
And that's not all: many artifacts found in the Paestum area have been collected and displayed in the National Archaeological Museum, opened in 1992. Here one of the most valuable pieces is preserved, namely the famous Tomb of the Diver.
Paestum is also easily accessible from Salerno. Regional trains depart from here in the direction of Paestum, which stop about 700 meters from the archaeological park.
Temples and the Tomb of the Diver in Paestum
The magical Capri
One of the most sought-after destinations for tourists coming to the Coast is, of course, the island of Capri. This little island has always been a favorite of the best of the international jet set: famous nightclubs, starred restaurants, spectacular views and the breathtaking beauty of the island's nature are just some of the attractions! Capri can also be reached by day from the Amalfi Coast. Some ferry companies, in fact, connect major coastal towns such as Amalfi, Positano, Maiori and Salerno to Capri's Marina Grande port. From here, then, you will be able to explore the island: you can choose to take the funicular railway that will take you to the famous "piazzetta," in the heart of Capri, or choose a boat tour that will allow you to reach the Faraglioni or explore the Blue Grotto. In short, everything is possible!
I just recommend that you check the websites of the different companies, since ferry runs may vary depending on weather conditions.
So what are you waiting for? Come to the Coast and explore the beauty of Campania!
Marina Grande and the Faraglioni in Capri. Ph by unsplash.com
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- The song "Torna a Surriento" by the De Curtis brothers is a world-famous Neapolitan song: it has also been translated and sung in English and even adapted for Elvis Presley under the title Surrender.
- If you are a lover of adventures and views, you absolutely cannot miss the chairlift ride to Mount Solaro on Capri! In about 13 minutes you will arrive on the highest point of the island, from which you can admire a breathtaking view! For more information click here.