What's Included
-
Get up to $230 cash back per person when you book with us
-
Meals: 5 Breakfasts
-
Accommodation: Hotel (7 nights)
-
Transport: Train, Private vehicle, Public bus, Boat, Metro
-
Naples - Explore the Napoli Sotterranea Underground City
-
Pompeii - Visit to the historical archeological site and walking tour with local guide
-
Mt Vesuvius - crater rim walk & summit climb
-
Sorrento - limoncello tasting and gelato making demonstration
-
Amalfi - Walk of the Gods hike (Sentiero degli Dei) and ticket on the Coastal Ferry Cruise from Positano to Amalfi
-
Dedicated local leader to guide you throughout the tour
What to Expect
Eight days of history, culture and cuisine - is there any better way to experience Italy?
Perfect for those looking for a short trip packed with diversity, this tour of southern Italy is the adventure for you!
Acquaint yourself with Italy's 'Eternal City' of Rome and learn about the catastrophic fate of Pompeii, soak up the sunshine in the coastal town of Sorrento and explore the beautiful Amalfi Coast.
Feel La Dolce Vita while sipping espresso alongside sharp-dressed locals on the glamorous Sorrentine Peninsula and indulge in authentic, traditional pizza in the place of its birth – Naples.
Buon appetito!
Where we visit
Day 1: Rome
Buongiorno! Welcome to Italy. Crowded with ancient ruins and religious monuments, Rome still pulses to the beat of modern life and is packed with designer shops, restaurants, cafes and exciting nightlife. There are no activities planned before the group meeting at 6pm tonight, so you can arrive any time before then. It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as this is where you tour leaders will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
There are so many things to do in Rome – the Colosseum, the Forum, Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps, Via Condotti, Piazza Venezia, the Vatican City and St Peter's Basilica – so arriving early is recommended. Don’t forget to do as the Romans do and sip an espresso at one of the tiny streetside cafes and sample the many flavours of gelato that colour the city, best done in the bohemian neighbourhood of Trastevere! For those captivated by the 'Eternal City', throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return visit to Rome.
Day 2: Naples / Pompeii
Today you'll travel by train to Naples (approximately 3 hours), a raucous city that overflows with passion, tradition and gastronomy. Its evocative, historical old centre is a World Heritage-listed area and the famous Spanish Quarter is still one of the most densely populated residential areas in Europe. Naples is the birthplace of the pizza, so why not head to one of the many pizzerias and taste what's truly some of the best that Italy has to offer? Head underground to see ancient Napoli Sotterranea, the famous underground city. Later in the afternoon, board a train to the time capsule of Pompeii, in the shadow of Mt Vesuvius (approximately 1 hour). Your accommodation is perfectly located right near the entrance to the archaeological excavation site making this a truly magical experience.
Day 3: Pompeii
The small picturesque town of 'modern' Pompeii has a wonderful old town square and is the perfect place to mingle with the locals, drinking true Italian coffee and watching the world go by. Most of today though will be spent exploring the ruins of ancient Pompeii on a guided tour. Take an unparalleled look back into the lives of ancient Romans and discover how they lived, worked and interacted 2,000 years ago through the finely preserved ruins of villas, temples, theatres and bustling markets. Walk along the chariot-marked streets, visit the magnificent amphitheatre and the ‘Villa of Mysteries’. You can also visit the Roman Forum and basilica, temples, public baths, and the tiny Odeon created for music recitals. The rest of the day is free, but if the ruins piqued your interest, head to nearby Herculaneum, which also holds a wealth of fossilised archaeological finds.
Day 4: Mt Vesuvius / Sorrento
On Day 4 you will take a bus up the mighty Mt Vesuvius, where you’ll meet a local volcanology guide. Ascend to the summit of Mt Vesuvius for staggering 360 degree views over the Bay of Naples and into the steaming crater. See first-hand the awesome power of the volcano that engulfed the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79AD. In the afternoon, travel by private vehicle to the picturesque resort town of Sorrento (approximately 1 hour). There are many options in this small seaside town with its fine piazzas, maze of old streets, sidewalk cafes and glamorous shops. The area is also famous for its lemon groves, producing the famous limoncello liqueur. In the evening head out to try some of the best limoncello on offer in Sorrento.
Please note: Although Mt Vesuvius is still considered to be an active volcano, the last eruption was in 1944 and there's no sign of lava.
Physicality factor: The final ascent of the volcano can only be done on foot, up a steep but well-made trail of volcanic ash and gravel. The ascent takes around 45 minutes, and comfortable closed shoes are essential. Sufferers of vertigo may prefer to opt out.
Day 5: Sorrento
You have a free day to explore this delightful area and the museums, galleries and piazzas of Sorrento. Perhaps stroll along the marina or cool off in the waters of the local small beaches. They’re not big on sandy beaches here, so swimming Sorrento-style is via wooden or stone bathing platforms beneath the cliffs. Taking a trip to Capri is also a great option, with a hydrofoil taking you across to the island that was once home to the magnificent holiday palaces of the Roman emperors. Here you can take a boat trip to the fairy-tale Blue Grotto (La Grotta Azzurra), where the water shines with an extraordinary blue translucence, a result of refraction of the sunlight outside. Your leader will be of assistance and will have plenty of suggestions of what to do and see today. End the day a very Italian way with a demonstration of Gelato making.
Day 6: Amalfi
Arrive on the Amalfi Coast after a short journey by private vehicle (approximately 2 hours). The Amalfi peninsula is a land of rocky coasts, cliff-top vistas, azure seas, tiered lemon groves, whitewashed villages clinging to steep cliffs, and bright blue skies. If you're after a relaxing walk with a few cultural highlights, stroll from one side of Amalfi town to the other and pay a visit to the Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea and the Chiostro del Paradiso. If you’re after something more active, perhaps embark on a walk through the Valley of Mills. Otherwise, just laze around on the beaches and in the piazza, gazing back up at the amazingly picturesque part of the world.
Day 7: Positano / Amalfi
Today, your leader will take you for a half-day hike along the narrow trail of the famous Sentiero Degli Dei (the Walk of the Gods) which, until quite recently, was followed by mules and donkeys as they traversed the dramatic landscape. This path winds its way through unique scenery and boasts unrivalled views along the coast. Walk through forests and fields of wildflowers, olive groves and vineyards, past ancient stone huts and beside sheer walls of granite. The trail ends in picturesque Positano where there will be ample time to explore and maybe take a dip in the sea. Return to Amalfi by ferry which is the perfect way to see the coast from a different perspective. With tonight your last night as a group, it’s a good idea to gather your fellow travellers together and head out for a feast to celebrate the end of this Italian adventure!
Physicality factor: Today's walking time: 4-5 hours / 9-10 km. Please note that the Pathway of the Gods is steep in places and has many stairs (the descent to Positano has more than 1,500 steps), and can be challenging for sufferers of vertigo - but the views are breath-taking and repay you for the effort! A certain level of fitness is required to complete this hike, especially in summer when there may not be much shade along the path. Your leader will be able to suggest alternative activities should you wish to opt out.
Day 8: Amalfi
There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. As there is so much to do along the Amalfi Coast you may even want to consider to extend your stay here!
Frequently Asked Questions
The primary means of transportation on this trip is by train. Train travel is a fast way to traverse long distances, allowing you to avoid traffic jams and arrive right into the city centre. Trains are comfortable and all have toilets, however can often be quite busy.
Please note that you'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the trains, and up and down stairs at train stations and at hotels, so make sure it doesn’t exceed the weight and size recommendations. You may want to consider taking a backpack rather than a wheelie bag, however this is up to your personal preference and what you feel more comfortable with.
Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Additionally, please be aware that July, August and the first half of September is high season along the Southern Italian coast, which means that the local infrastructure is under a lot of pressure with a lot of people in the towns we visit. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
As accommodation on this trip is twin-share, single travellers will share a room with another traveller of the same sex. This trip is a great opportunity to get to know other like-minded people, so embrace it while you can. If you’d prefer not to share, a single room supplement is available at an additional charge. Please note that in some hotels a single supplement exclusion applies where single rooms are not available. Hotel rooms in Europe can seem rather small by American or Australian standards and often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together. Please also note that often hotels offer shared bathrooms rather than en-suite facilities.
Joining point
Hotel San Marco
Via Villafranca, 1
Rome
ITALY
Phone: +39 06490437
Joining point instructions
An arrival transfer from Fiumicino or Ciampino can be arranged at an additional charge. Please ask if you would like to add this service and provide your flight details at least 14 days prior to arrival. If you have pre booked an arrival transfer, your transfer driver will be holding a board with Intrepid's Logo or your name at the arrivals hall.
Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals area at both Fiumicino and Ciampino Airport, which will cost about 35 - 50 EUR to get to the hotel. For public transport options, please see below:
From Termini
Exit the Termini railway station with the railway tracks behind you taking the RIGHT hand exit : you will find yourself in Via Marsala, cross the road and go ahead to your left, turn right at the first street. Now you are in Via Vicenza. Go straight ahead for 250 meters and turn left in Via Villafranca the hotel is at number 1.
From Fiumicino Airport
The Leonardo Express is a Trenitalia train connecting Fiumicino airport with the main train station in Rome, Termini. It takes roughly 32 minutes and leaves the airport every half-hour, or every 15 minutes during peak hours. Once in Termini, follow the directions above.
From Ciampino Airport
Take one of the coach companies from outside the airport which will take you to Via Marsala at Termini station for around 6 euros. The most famous of these companies is Terravision. On arrival at Termini, simply follow the directions above.
PASSPORT
You will need a valid passport to travel internationally. As a general rule, most countries require that your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity remaining. Your passport details are required to complete your booking. Please ensure the passport details you provide are accurate. Any errors provided may result in extra fees for making corrections in bookings. We recommend taking copies of the main passport pages and other important documents with you as well as leave copies at home with family or friends.
VISAS
Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time. It is important that you check your government's foreign travel advisories along with the consular website of the country or countries you are travelling to for the most up to date information specific to your nationality and circumstances. Please be aware that not all visa information found online from other sources may be valid while COVID-19 restrictions are in place.
Visas can take several weeks to process, so make sure you research the requirements as soon as you have booked your trip to allow for obtaining any necessary documents as well as the application and processing time. Your booking consultant can advise on a visa processing service or you can apply yourself directly through a consulate. Below you will find general visa advice about the destinations on your trip.
Visas for Italy are not required for passport holders of the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, USA and Canada. All other nationalities should check with the relevant authorities.
On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 10kg / 22lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are lightly to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.
TRAVELLING ON LOCAL TRANSPORT
It's important that your bags can be locked, as on local transport it may be necessary that your luggage gets stowed separately (and unattended). The smaller your bag the better for you and other passengers. To ensure maximum comfort, try to pack small and light.
WATER BOTTLE
Please bring your own water bottle to refill along the way. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. Your leader will advise whether tap water is safe to drink in your destination, if it is you can simply refill with tap water. When unable to avoid bottled water it is better to buy the largest available and distribute into your smaller bottle for the day.
For more information surrounding this tour, please visit: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/au/italy/rome-amalfi-123851/tripnotes
Policies
-
Travellers on this tour are required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19.
-
A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 4, 5 (Sorrento) and Days 6, 7 (Amalfi) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability.
-
Please also note that due to the small properties in Europe there is only a limited amount of single supplements available per trip departure. If you would like to book a single supplement and enquire about availability please speak to your booking agent.
-
Please note that the physical rating for this trip is set at 2. While this is correct for the overall trip, there are some components that are of a higher physical rating. Both the climb to the summit of Mt Vesuvius and the hike on the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) require a certain amount of fitness. Please read the day-to-day itinerary carefully or speak to your leader for more details. Activities can be opted out of if you don't want to participate.
-
You don't have a lot of time in Rome at the start of the trip, so if you're keen to explore this spectacular city in depth we recommend you arrive a day or two before the start of the trip, especially if you would like to see the Vatican Museum as it is closed most Sundays.
-
On Day 7, the ferry from Positano operates on seasonal schedules and may be cancelled in adverse weather conditions. In these cases your group will take the bus back to Amalfi
Please visit the Intrepid Booking Conditions page for more information.
Tour Operator
Reviews for 8 Day Escape: Rome to Amalfi
Flexible booking
Book your experience stress-free and know we're here to help.
Get Instant Confirmation