Campania brings together Naples's theatrical streets, the ash-preserved cities below Vesuvius, Capri's sea light, and a coast where every turn changes the view. Plan it as a region rather than a checklist: rail and boats handle the main links, while the cliff roads and stairs reward patience.
Last updated August 24, 2026
In brief: Campania is southern Italy in concentrated form. Greek and Roman foundations, Norman and Arab-Sicilian architecture, Bourbon palaces, fishing harbors, volcanic soil, lemon terraces and a living food culture all meet between Naples and the Bay of Salerno. The best days alternate movement with stillness: explore a street or ruin in the morning, then find a high terrace, a beach or a harbor and practise il dolce far niente.
This guide is the doorway to a wider region. Start with Naples in depth and the food culture, plan the practicalities with Planning Campania, then combine Pompeii, Vesuvius and Capri with Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi and Ravello. The archaeology and islands chapters complete the picture for a five to seven day route.