Southern Italy Itinerary: 10 Days

EuropeItaly
Written By Jessica Bergin

Viva Italia! The motherland of pizza and pasta is jam-packed with ancient attractions and fun-filled activities. This Southern Italy Itinerary for 10 Days hits all the highlights, from Amalfi Coast to Puglia.

southern italy sunset

Southern Italy is known for its beautiful beaches, volcanoes and culinary delights.

The history is weaved throughout every inch of the country and each town is bursting with its own appeal.

Whether you want to explore the vibrant city of Naples or visit the age-old caves in Matera, there’s something for foodies, culture vultures and adventure aficionados alike.

Spend your days lounging at the beach bars, admiring the churches and marvelling at the myriad museums.

This Southern Italy Itinerary for 10 days invites you to experience a world of contrasts, from the archaeological gems and Baroque palaces to the lemon-fringed coastal towns.

Combine your trip with this 7-Day Italy Itinerary and make the most of your holidays in Europe.

 

How to Spend 10 Days in Southern Italy

Italy is brimming with historical finds, breathtaking landscapes and a thriving cultural scene. This 10 day Southern Italy itinerary will take you through the highlights, food and top-rated attractions. Sip Aperol spritz on the Amalfi Coast, peer up at Mount Vesuvius and taste traditional gastronomy in Puglia.

Here’s a summary of what we cover in this Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Naples

  • Day 2: Pompeii and Vesuvius

  • Day 3 - 5: Amalfi Coast and Capri

  • Day 6: Matera

  • Day 7 - 8: Bari

  • Day 9 - 10: Ostuni and Lecce

 

Southern Italy Itinerary Day 1: Naples

Let’s kickstart your holidays in Italy in the birthplace of pizza, Naples.

Known for its rich history and ancient ruins, this metropolis merits dining, diversity and idyllic escapes at every end. As the capital of Campania, Naples is coined for its vibrant markets, cathedrals and hidden underground city. This pizza lover’s paradise is the best place to begin your Southern Italy itinerary.

After landing at Naples Airport (Aeroporti di Napoli), head to your hotel and drop off your luggage. Ease into your first day in Italy with a nourishing meal, then prepare to tick the big sites off your bucket list. With 500-and-something churches and a handful of archaeological gems, make sure you don’t miss the opera house (Teatro San Carlo).

Waltz around the biggest Old Town in Europe, Spaccanapoli, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While you’re there, check out the Naples Cathedral (Duomo), which is famous for its spectacular frescoes. Located on the cusp of the Gulf of Naples, this city also offers experiences for those who want to wine and dine by the sea.

naples in southern italy

Stroll along the Lungomare promenade to see the Bay of Naples and Castel dell’Ovo.

Discover new tastes on a Street Food Walking Tour with a Local Guide. If you tire of the Campanian capital, ditch the city buzz and escape on a Day Trip from Naples.

Things to do in Naples:

Where to Stay in Naples:

 

Southern Italy Itinerary Day 2: Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius

A day in Naples promises plenty of food comas. Now’s the time to work it off as you explore Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.

This part of the 10 day Southern Italy itinerary shines a light on one of the most significant historical events. Pompeii is a traveller’s treasure trove, particularly for those interested in history. This ancient city is known for its volcanic eruption in 79 AD, which destroyed and covered the town in over 6 metres (19 feet) of ash and debris.

Mount Vesuvius provides an eerie backdrop as you see sites like the ancient brothels, baths and the oldest surviving Roman amphitheatre. Take a guided tour of Pompeii and learn about daily life before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Get your adrenaline fix as you hike up Mount Vesuvius and enjoy panoramic views over the crater and Bay of Naples.

For day two, you can choose to do a day trip from Naples to Pompeii. Alternatively, you can take your luggage and post up in a nearby accommodation. It all comes down to you and your preferences.

Things to do in Pompeii and Vesuvius:

Where to Stay in Pompeii and Vesuvius:

 

Southern Italy Itinerary Day 3 - 5: Amalfi Coast

After a couple of days indulging in the food and history, make a move on to the Amalfi Coast. This dreamy coastline is well-known for its UNESCO-listed sites and sparkling beaches.

The Amalfi Coast is a picturesque region with plenty to offer tourists. And this next leg of the Southern Italy itinerary for 10 days allows you the time to sit back and take it all in. Spend the next three days in Italy tasting wine in the terraced vineyards, sipping Limoncello by the beach and hiking through the jaw-dropping coastal trails. Don’t miss this hiking tour on the Path of the Gods!

Start in Positano, a famous town that’s carved by cliff-hugging pastel houses. Shop at the local boutiques and get refreshed at Spiaggia Grande Beach. Next up, head to Amalfi. See highlights like the Amalfi Cathedral or take a short ten-minute walk to nearby Atrani.

If you want to avoid the crowds, be sure to check out Ravello or Vietri sul Mare. Top attractions include Villa Rufolo, Terrazza dell’Infinito and Valle delle Ferriere.

On your last day on the Amalfi Coast, take a day trip to Capri. Board a boat tour to the Blue Grotto, ride the Monte Solaro chairlift and venture into Villa San Michele in Anacapri. Don’t miss a thing with my guide on the Best Things to do in Amalfi Coast. For more ideas to add to your itinerary, check out this 5-Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary.

Things to do in Amalfi Coast:

Where to Stay in Amalfi Coast:

 

Southern Italy Itinerary Day 6: Matera

After spending some time on the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, leave the Campania region and head inland to Matera.

This part of the Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary invites you to a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Basilicata. Matera is known for its ancient cave dwellings and thriving local culture. If you only do one thing, make sure it’s the Sassi di Matera.

Top things to do in Matera include Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a restored cave home, and the Cattedrale di Matera, which boasts panoramic city views.

This picturesque part of the country has a lengthy and intriguing history. Matera dates back to the Paleolithic era and even has evidence of human settlements from over 9,000 years ago. Matera is worth visiting for one day, but be sure to leave early so you can make the most of your time.

matera town in southern italy

Things to do in Matera:

Where to Stay in Matera:

 

Southern Italy Itinerary Day 7 - 8: Bari

Following a day in the Basilicata region, continue your Italian road trip and make your way to Bari.

The Puglian capital is a character-packed port city that’s famous for its historical, cultural and culinary experiences. Bari flaunts ancient traditions with a modern twist, offering travellers the best of both worlds. Spend the next two days dabbling in the blend of historic sights and authentic experiences.

This part of the Southern Italy itinerary for 10 days allows you plenty of freedom to pick and choose your preferred activities. History buffs can visit the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, a pilgrimage site for Catholics and Orthodox Christians, while foodies can overindulge in seafood, focaccia and traditional Puglian plates like orecchiette alle cime di rapa.

The Bari Vecchia (Old Town) is dotted with historic churches, lively piazzas (squares) and a maze of narrow laneways. Don’t miss the Piazza del Ferrarese, Bari Castle (Castello Normanno-Svevo) and the 11th-century Basilica of Saint Nicholas. If you’ve got more time and want to level up the adventure, pop into Teatro Petruzzelli, one of Italy’s largest opera houses.

Things to do in Bari:

Where to Stay in Bari:

 

Southern Italy Itinerary Day 9 - 10: Ostuni and Lecce

In this last leg of the 10 day Southern Italy itinerary, you’ll wind things up in Ostuni and Lecce.

Ostuni is known as the ‘White City’, thanks to its labyrinth of whitewashed architecture and historical streets. Located in Italy’s Apulia region, you can see top-rated attractions at every end.

The Ostuni Cathedral is a standout, as it merges Gothic, Romanesque and Byzantine influences. Other highlights include the Porta San Demetrio, the Civic Museum and the Santuario di Sant’Oronzo complex, which is situated in the northwest.

End your Italy vacation here, or keep the ball rolling and make one last stop in Lecce. This town is pinned as the ‘Florence of the South’, due to its Baroque architecture. Marvel at the Santa Croce Basilica and Piazza del Duomo, before finishing your final day in a traditional trattoria.

Things to do in Ostuni and Lecce:

Where to Stay in Ostuni and Lecce:

 

Southern Italy Itinerary for 7 and 14 Days

If you want to spend a little extra (or a little less) time in Italy, here’s a Southern Italy itinerary 7 days and 14 days. Save time and energy planning your routes, because these two travel guides cover all the top spots. Combine your 1- or 2-week trip to Italy with this Mediterranean Itinerary: 3 Weeks or this Greek Islands Itinerary: 10 Days and level up your next vacation!

amalfi coast in southern italy

7-Day Southern Italy Itinerary

  • Day 1: Naples

  • Day 2: Pompeii and Vesuvius

  • Day 3 - 4: Amalfi Coast

  • Day 5: Matera

  • Day 6 - 7: Bari

14-Day Southern Italy Itinerary

  • Day 1: Naples

  • Day 2: Pompeii and Vesuvius

  • Day 3 - 5: Amalfi Coast and Capri

  • Day 6: Matera

  • Day 7 - 8: Bari

  • Day 9 - 10: Ostuni and Lecce

  • Day 11 - 12: Palermo, Sicily

  • Day 13 - 14: Catania, Sicily

 

Best Time to Visit Southern Italy

The best time to visit Southern Italy comes down to your preferences for weather, activities, crowds and travel budget. Here's a detailed breakdown of what to expect in each season:

Spring

From March to May, the temperatures remain fairly mild, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is an ideal time to explore the landscape, but, without the intensity of the summertime heat. If you plan your Southern Italy Itinerary in spring, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and flower-filled scenery. This season is ideal for visiting towns like Matera, Lecce and Bari, and for hiking along the Amalfi Coast or in Puglia.

Summer

From June to August, the Adriatic and Mediterranean waters are in full swing. Boasting warm weather, long nights and hot days for swimming and sunbathing, it’s easy to see why this is the peak tourist season. You can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere in towns like Amalfi and Positano, as well as a string of cultural events.

If you choose to visit Italy during the summer, be prepared for scorching hot weather, lots of crowds and higher rates of accommodation and activities. If you want to plan a beach holiday in Italy (but without the frenzied flocks of tourists), visit in late May or early September.

Autumn

From September to November, the temperatures cool down around 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 81°F). The autumn season is an excellent time for food and wine lovers, thanks to the local harvest festivals and wine-tasting events. Don’t forget to try seasonal dishes like chestnuts and mushrooms. You can also venture to cultural hot spots like Vesuvius, Pompei and Alberobello without having to battle through the big crowds.

Winter

From December to February, the weather in Italy remains mild, with cool days, light rainfall and crisp evenings. The coastal areas like Bari and Amalfi range between 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). This is the best time to plan your Southern Italy Road Trip Itinerary if you’re more focused on culture and food. Plus, it’s one of the cheapest times to visit Italy. You’ll enjoy affordable prices on airfares, accommodations and activities. The winter period also shines a light on the Christmas Markets and holiday festivals, especially in towns like Lecce and Naples.

 

How to Get Around Southern Italy

Before you can embark on your Southern Italy itinerary, it’s important to weigh up some transport options. Getting around Southern Italy usually requires a mix of transportation, unless you’re renting your own vehicle. Here's a comprehensive guide to how to get around Southern Italy:

7 day southern Italy itinerary

By Train

Italy boasts a well-developed railway network. Train travel is one of the most convenient ways to get around Southern Italy, thanks to its connections between big cities like Naples, Bari, Salerno, Lecce and Reggio Calabria. Regional trains (Regionale) are budget-friendly, while high-speed trains (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Italo) are quicker but more expensive.

The train route from Naples to Salerno offers exceptional views too! The only downside to the train network is that it’s not fit for reaching smaller towns or rural areas like Alberobello. Before beginning your Italy vacation, download the Trenitalia or Italo apps for schedules and tickets.

By Bus

If you’ve been wondering if you can get around Southern Italy without a car, the bus network holds the key. Buses in Italy combine well with trains, especially if you want to reach smaller villages like Matera, Vietri sul Mare and Amalfi. Use FlixBus for long-distance journeys, and local buses, like SITA for coastal routes.

Although it is a cost-effective mode of transport, you’ll experience longer travel times and a lot more crowds. During the summer, buses in popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast can get overwhelming. So be prepared to battle it out. Literally.

By Car

Hiring a car is the best way to visit Southern Italy, especially if you want to see the countryside and coastal towns. Renting a car in Italy allows you the freedom to plan your own route, stop whenever you want and enjoy the scenery along the way. But, there are a few things to consider before booking a car:

Tips for Hiring a Car in Italy:

  • Rent a small car (ideal for tight streets and narrow laneways)

  • Download apps like Google Maps (you’ll be covered even with no signal)

  • Ditch the traffic and head out early in the morning

  • Keep an eye out for ZTL Zones (Zona a Traffico Limitato) where you can’t park without a permit

  • If you’re a non-EU resident, make sure you get an International Drivers License

 

Top Travel Tips for Your Southern Italy Itinerary

To ensure that your Southern Italy itinerary for 10 days goes as smoothly as possible, there are a few things to consider. Make sure you brush up on the following tips:

  • Purchase a local SIM card in Italy and stay connected with this full guide on the Best eSIMs for Europe

  • Learn some basic Italian vocabulary – locals really appreciate the effort. Even if it’s just ciao, grazie and prego!

  • Set up a travel budget and make a savings plan for your Italy trip

  • Save money by booking flights and accommodation at least 3-4 months in advance

  • Be spontaneous and get off the tourist trail

  • Master the art of scoring cheap flights

  • Master packing light so you can avoid the extra baggage fees

  • Back yourself up with travel insurance (you never know what could happen)

  • Purchase delicacies at the local markets, not from chain stores 

  • Ditch high season! The best month to visit Southern Italy is in April, May, September or October

  • Italy uses the euro currency and having cash on you is recommended

  • If you’re looking for the fastest option, hop on a high-speed train or catch a flight 

 

Planning a European Road Trip?

Couple this 10-day Southern Italy itinerary with one of these tried-and-tested Europe trip ideas. Climb the mountains in Croatia, swim at the beaches in Portugal or tempt your tastebuds with tapas in Spain.

 

FAQs

How many days do you need for Southern Italy?

The ideal time is around two weeks or more. In 14 days, you can see various regions in Southern Italy. If you have less time, 10 days will allow you to see some of the big cities like Naples and coastal towns like Amalfi and Bari.

Is Southern Italy worth visiting?

Southern Italy is home to some stunning destinations, with pebbled beaches, turquoise sea and lush mountaintops waiting to be explored. If you’re interested in food and culture, it’s well worth visiting Southern Italy.

What is the best base in Southern Italy?

The most ideal base for your Southern Italy Itinerary comes down to your preferences and budget. Naples is a great place to start your road trip, while towns like Bari and Palermo are excellent places to end it.

Is the south of Italy expensive?

Southern Italy is widely considered one of the cheapest places to visit in Italy. With low rates on hotels, food and attractions, this destination is a budget traveller’s haven. That said, if you travel to the Amalfi Coast, you can expect to pay a lot more money.

Why Visit Southern Italy for 10 Days?

From the lemon-lined coastal towns to the quaint countryside villages, there’s a slew of staggering sites to experience. Whether you picture yourself sipping aperol spritz in Amaldi or soaking up the sun in Sicily, it’s well worth visiting Southern Italy for 10 days. Before you jet-set off on your pizza-packed vacation, be sure to save this Southern Italy itinerary.

Jessica Bergin https://www.jessbergin.com
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