Rome to Southern Italy

Intrepid Travel · 17 days

4.3

2 Reviews

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Duration

17 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

This 17-day adventure around Italy takes in some of the most ancient sites in European history and shows you the lesser-known countryside, too.

Highlights

Wander around Rome's famous landmarks including the Colosseum (one of the Seven Wonders of the World), Vatican City, Sistine Chapel, St Peter's Basilica and much more.
Explore the vast ruins of ancient Pompeii, which emerged from the ashes after thousands of years, and take a peek into the steaming crater of Mt Vesuvius – the volcano that destroyed it.
Hike among the olive groves on the Path of the Gods along the spectacular Amalfi Coast.
Learn about local history and feel like a true Alberobello resident with a night spent in Alberobello’s unique trulli.
Explore the otherworldly Sassi of Matera – stone houses formed from natural grottoes and tufo cliffs overlooking a dramatic gorge.

Trip Details

Duration

17 days

Transportation

Train,Public bus,Private vehicle,Boat,Metro,Taxi

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Rome, Italy

Finishes

Bari, Italy

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Rome

Buongiorno! Welcome to Italy. Brimming 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 until your welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, so you can arrive any time. 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 or sample the many flavours of gelato that colour the city (Trastevere is a great spot for dining). For those captivated by the Eternal City, throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return visit.

Optional Activities:

Rome - Castel Sant'Angelo (19 EUR)
Rome - Christian Catacombs (10 EUR)
Rome - Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill (19 EUR)
Rome - Keats-Shelley Memorial House (6 EUR)
Rome - Galleria Borghese (17 EUR)
Rome - Pantheon (5 EUR)
Vatican City - St Peter's Dome Climb & Elevator (10 EUR)
Rome - Venezia Palace (17 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Naples / Pompeii

Travel by train to Naples, a raucous city that overflows with passion, tradition and gastronomy. Naples was carved out by many empires of the past and by merchants and pirates from across the world: Romans, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Venetians, Spaniards, Normans and Africans. 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. Take an orientation walk with your leader through the city center and the Spanish Quarter, and finish your walk with something special. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, so why not head to one of the many pizzerias and taste what's truly some of the best in Italy. Later in the afternoon, board a train to the time capsule of Pompeii, in the shadow of Mt Vesuvius. Your accommodation is perfectly located right near the entrance to the archaeological excavation site.

Included Activities:

Naples - Leader-led orientation walk
Naples - café sospeso

Optional Activities:

Naples - Archaeological Museum (20 EUR)
Naples - Duomo - Free
Naples - St Claire's Church and Cloister (7 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Pompeii

The small town of modern Pompeii has a wonderful Old Town square – the perfect place to spend some time with the locals, drink an authentic Italian coffee and watch the world go by. Today’s highlight is a guided tour of the ruins of ancient Pompeii. Until 79 AD, Pompeii was a thriving Roman trading centre, but it was frozen in time when Mount Vesuvius erupted, burying 2000 people and their homes under a layer of ash. The city was never rebuilt and largely disappeared from people’s minds until the ruins were rediscovered in the 18th century. Immaculately preserved ruins include villas, temples, theatres and bustling markets, providing insights into how Romans lived, worked and interacted 2000 years ago. The remainder of the day is yours to relax, or if you like, you can visit the nearby Herculaneum, renowned for its fossilised archaeological treasures.

Included Activities:

Pompeii - Archaeological Site
Pompeii - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:

Pompeii - Herculaneum Ruins (16 EUR)
Pompeii - Sanctuary of St Mary of the Rosary - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Mt Vesuvius / Sorrento

A private transfer will take you up the mighty Mt Vesuvius this morning, 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. Although Mt Vesuvius is still considered to be an active volcano, the last eruption was in 1944 and there's no sign of lava. See firsthand the awesome power of the volcano that engulfed the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 AD. In the afternoon, travel by private vehicle to the resort town of Sorrento. People have been coming to the peninsula and islands of the Sorrento region for at least 2000 years. There are many options in this small seaside town with its fine piazzas, maze of old streets, sidewalk cafes and shops. The area is famous for its lemon groves, which produce the famous limoncello liqueur. Consider heading out to try some tonight.

Included Activities:

Mt Vesuvius - Crater Rim Walk & Summit Climb
Sorrento - Limoncello Tasting

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Sorrento

You have a free day to explore the cliffside town of Sorrento today. Maybe stroll along the marina or cool off in the waters of the small beaches. Visiting Capri is another option, accessible by a hydrofoil. Natural grottoes dot Capri’s rugged coastline, while inland, narrow roads wind through fragrant citrus groves and past villages of flat-roofed white houses. In Capri, you can take a boat trip to the Blue Grotto (La Grotta Azzurra), where the water shines with an extraordinary blue translucence – a result of the refraction of the sunlight outside. End the day the Italian way with a demonstration of Gelato making with your group.

Included Activities:

Sorrento - Gelato Making Demonstration

Optional Activities:

Capri - Hydrofoil Sorrento to Capri (44 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Amalfi Coast

Arrive on the Amalfi Coast after a short journey by private vehicle. The Amalfi peninsula is a land of rocky coasts, cliff-top vistas, azure seas, tiered lemon groves, whitewashed villages 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 visit the Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea and the Chiostro del Paradiso. If you want something more active, maybe embark on a walk through the Valley of Mills. Alternatively, catch a bus up the Valley of Dragons to reach Ravello. For centuries, its lofty position and sunny, dry climate have made it an appealing place for writers, artists, musicians and travellers. Tonight, you'll stay in Minori, just a 15-minute bus ride from Amalfi (the bus fare is included). Unlike bustling tourist hotspots, Minori offers privacy and equally breathtaking views while being just a short walk from the beach.

Optional Activities:

Amalfi - Chiostro del Paradiso (3 EUR)
Amalfi - Valley of the Mills Hike - Free
Amalfi - Ravello & Valley of the Dragons - Free
Amalfi - Cattedrale S.Andrea - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel in Minori (Amalfi Coast) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Positano / Amalfi Coast

This morning, take the short bus ride to Amalfi Town. Your leader will take you for a half-day hike along the narrow trail of the famous Sentiero Degli Dei (the Path 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. See the local farmers tending their crops by hoe and herds of goats feeding beside the trail. The trail ends in Positano, where there will be ample time to explore and maybe take a dip in the sea. Return to Minori by ferry and bus. As tonight marks your final evening together, maybe gather your fellow travellers for a celebratory feast to cap off your Italian adventure.

Included Activities:

Amalfi - Walk of the Gods Hike (Sentiero degli Dei)
Amalfi - Coastal Ferry Cruise Positano to Amalfi

Accommodation:

Hotel in Minori (Amalfi Coast) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Amalfi Coast

Today is a free day for you to explore the region surrounding Amalfi. A great way to see the coastline is on a boat – there are regular seasonal services between Amalfi, Positano and Capri. It is also highly recommended to walk to the shaded Valle dei Mulini (Valley of the Watermills). Here, you’ll find remnants of Europe’s earliest paper mills among the thick foliage, fed by the valley's streams. Pass locals collecting wild mushrooms and carrying half their body weight in lemons as the path takes you deep into the valley to the entrance of the nature reserve Valle delle Ferriere (Valley of Iron). This is one of the most interesting nature reserves of the area and an ideal place for lunch.

Accommodation:

Hotel in Minori (Amalfi Coast) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Amalfi Coast

You have a free day to explore Minori Town and Amalfi Town (just a 15 minute bus ride away) today. 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, maybe head out on a walk through the Valley of Mills. Alternatively, you can take a bus to the Valley of Dragons to reach pretty Ravello – for centuries, its lofty position and sunny, dry climate have made it an appealing place for writers, artists, musicians and travellers. Ravello also boasts two magnificent villas, the 11th century Villa Rufolo – once the home of Wagner – and Villa Cimbrone – a 19th century mansion with sprawling gardens and great views over the Gulf of Salerno. You could also take a half-day walk along the narrow trail of the famous Sentiero Degli Dei (the Walk of the Gods) through forests and fields of wildflowers, olive groves and vineyards.

Optional Activities:

Amalfi - Chiostro del Paradiso (3 EUR)
Capri - Hydrofoil Amalfi to Capri (44 EUR)
Ravello - Villa Cimbrone (10 EUR)
Ravello - Villa Rufolo (8 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel in Minori (Amalfi Coast) (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Trani

Travel to Italy's east coast to Trani, known as the 'Southern Pearl'. Once an ancient trading hub, Trani is a port town with a white cathedral on the seawall. The crescent-shaped marina is a great place to relax and watch the world go by. With medieval streets and its own sweet wine, Trani feels like stepping into a 1950s movie set. When you arrive, explore the historic centre and its medieval churches on a walking tour with a local guide. The Old Town points to a time when this was a major port for merchants travelling to the Near East. Later, kick back on the waterfront and watch the sophisticates of Puglia clink glasses of Moscato di Trani in cosy bars.

Included Activities:

Trani - City Walking Tour leader led

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Trani

Today is a free day to explore all that Trani has to offer. You might like to visit the dramatic Cattedrale di San Nicola Pellegrino – begun in 1099 and taking over two centuries to finish, the soft white-pink limestone Norman cathedral is dedicated to the famously foolish St Nicholas the Pilgrim, whose bones lie in the crypt below the church. Inside, it’s bright and airy and the remains of a 12-century mosaic near the main altar set off the simply furnished church. You can also head to the castle built by Frederick II – the king of Sicily, Italy, Germany, Jerusalem and the Holy Roman Emperor in the 13th century. Explore the medieval Jewish quarter, built in all-white stone, stopping by two synagogues, the Scola Nova and the Scola Grande. Fishermen sell the day’s catch in the marina, so maybe head there for dinner and grab a glass of wine harbourside.

Optional Activities:

Trani - Cathedral - Free
Trani - Castello di Trani (8 EUR)
Trani - Cathedral Bell Tower (5 EUR)
Trani - Synagogue of Scolanova - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Lecce

Head south and delight in the baroque architecture and atmosphere of Lecce. Lecce's elaborate ornamentation is elevated to dizzying heights, presenting the casual viewer with a feast for the senses. Sumptuous palazzi (mansions), a defensive main square, Roman ruins and magnificent allegories dancing across ornate facades make Lecce a swoon-worthy sight for any traveller. The university gives the town a lively feel, and there are little boutiques, antique shops and delicious delis to explore.

Optional Activities:

Polignano - Stopover enroute to Lecce (3 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Lecce

Today is a free day for you to explore Lecce. If open, maybe step beneath the city and see the restored Roman amphitheatre excavated in the 1930s. Built in the 2nd century AD, the remarkably intact theatre seated 15,000 people. Overlooking the arena is the Colonna di Sant'Oronzo – a statue of Lecce's patron saint mounted on a Roman column. Maybe check out the Basilica Di Santa Croce’s facade of sheep, dodos, cherubs and monsters or head to the Piazza del Duomo. Used in the past as a defence against invaders, the square's openness is bordered by a 12th-century cathedral, a 68 m-high bell tower, a 15th-century Episcopal Palace and an 18th-century Seminario. In the afternoon, meet up with the group for an aperitivo with local specialties like friselle, taralli, puccia, bombette and burrate.

Included Activities:

Lecce - Aperitivo with Local Specialties

Optional Activities:

Lecce - Roman Amphitheatre (10 EUR)
Lecce - Castello di Carlo V (8 EUR)
Lecce - Basilica di Santa Croce - Free
Lecce - History Museum (5 EUR)
Lecce - Museo Faggiano (5 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Ostuni / Alberobello

Travel by private transport to a local masseria to meet an olive oil producer, who will show you how the techniques have changed over the millennia before you're treated to a tasting. Some olive trees here are thought to be close to 3000 years old and the farm has been active since Roman times. You’ll then head to Ostuni and explore its narrow streets before continuing to Alberobello. Travellers flock here to see at the beehive-shaped Trulli (singular trullo) – small, dry-stone houses built from local limestone in the 14th century. The origins of the buildings are unclear, although it's possible the mortar-less dwellings were created to be easily dismantled in a feudal tax evasion scheme. Wander the Old Town quarter of Rione Monti, where thousands of Trulli (and souvenir shops) rise over the hill or head over to Rione Aia Piccola and see Trulli family dwellings.

Included Activities:

Alberobello - Olive Oil Mill Visit and Tasting

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Matera

Transfer by private mini bus to Matera. The extraordinary sight of Matera's Old Town gives a haunting, bittersweet insight into ancient life. One of the oldest cities in existence, Matera's otherworldly drawcard is the sassi (singular sasso) – stone houses formed from natural grottoes and tufo cliffs overlooking a gorge. Its resemblance to Jerusalem has attracted film directors of biblical epics, but its dark interiors were the scene of shameful poverty in the mid-20th century. Duck down into the sassi through the knot of staircases and alleyways that snake through the limestone ravines, and take a guided tour to appreciate both its ancient and modern history. Tonight, you’ll stay in accommodation with balconies overlooking the sassi.

Included Activities:

Matera - Ipogeo Underground Cistern
Matera - City Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:

Matera - Museo della Scultura Contemporanea (7 EUR)
Matera - Cathedral - Free
Matera - Casa Noha Multimedia Exhibit (7 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Matera / Bari

This morning is free for you to explore the narrow alleyways and caves of Matera before boarding a local train to Bari at around lunchtime. Sitting on a small peninsula in the Adriatic Sea overlooking Greece, Bari is the prosperous capital of Puglia. The tangled streets of its Old Town, Bari Vecchia, conceal Romanesque churches, a market, medieval piazzas and a Swabian castle. The Basilica di San Nicola was built to hold the relics of St Nicholas, which were stolen from Turkey by local Bari fishermen and have made the city a place of pilgrimage since 1087. The relics are also the mainstay of Bari's biggest annual celebration, the Festa di San Nicola. The stone walls are lovely to walk around, with the sea lapping on one side and the medieval town on the other. Bari is also the perfect place to see out your last night and have a group meal by the harbour, sampling local limoncello and some of the seafood the city is famous for.

Optional Activities:

Bari - Pinacoteca Provinciale (5 EUR)
Bari - Basilica di San Nicola - Free
Bari - Cattedrale di San Sabino - Free
Bari - Castello Svevo (10 EUR)
Bari - Pane e Pomodoro Beach - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Bari

Your journey will come to an end after breakfast today and you are free to depart at any time. If you would like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent to organise additional accommodation.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $7,040

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 17 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

This 17-day adventure around Italy takes in some of the most ancient sites in European history and shows you the lesser-known countryside, too.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 29 Jul 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

William

Traveled, September 2023

10/06/2022

Great to be in a small group of 10-12. Great camaraderie among the group. There is so much to see on this Southern Italy tour - we were amazed!

4.0

Judith

Traveled, June 2022

07/28/2022

Southern Italy is a must, different in its history and regional offerings, it was both a surprise and a delight!

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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