Best Day Trips from Naples, Italy in 2024 (+ Tours)

Ah Naples! The perfect destination for those who love history… and pizza, of course.

The city is pretty much everybody’s pitstop for a visit to the famous ruins of Pompeii, but besides that, did you know that there are many more towns and places you can visit as a day trip from Naples?

Here I will show you some of the best places to visit near Naples, Italy, from the haunting ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum to the picturesque villages of Positano.

You can take advantage of your stop in Naples to try more than one different experience across the region!

For those interested, you can even use Naples as your dorm city, to explore one place per day, and before you ask me, yes there are many things to do and see in the Campania region to justify staying in the city for longer and enjoy the best day trips from Naples.

From hiking the legendary Mount Vesuvius to exploring the glowing Blue Grotto, in Capri, with such a diverse set of attractions, Naples and its surroundings promise an unforgettable journey.

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Quick links to plan your Best Day Trips from Naples, Italy

Get around Naples

Car: Secure the best rates with DiscoverCars.
Trains: Check Omio for schedules and book your ticket online.
Ferries: Check schedules and book your ferries through DirectFerries (Ferries to and from Naples, Positano, Capris, Amalfi, and Ischia)
Transfer: Book your private airport transfer.
Naples Sightseeing Bus: An easy way to navigate the city.

Recommended Accommodation

Palazzo Firenze – Located close to the Central Station
La Casa Sul Nilo – Luxurious apartments on a budget
Relais Della Porta Located in the heart of Via Toledo
Grand Hotel Santa Lucia – Hotel with a beautiful view of the sea

Recommended Tours for Day Trips from Naples

Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius Tour
Herculaneum Guided Tour with an Archaeologist
From Naples: Capri & Blue Grotto
From Naples: Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello
From Naples to Paestum & skip-the-line ticket

Best Day Trips from Naples

Ruins of Pompeii.

1. Pompeii

The ruins of Pompeii are the most popular destination for day trips from Naples, receiving over 2.5 million visitors annually.

This amazing UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit if you want to learn more about the history of Italy.

Pompeii was one of the many cities destroyed and covered in vulcano ashes in 79 CE due to a violent eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

The circumstances of the event uniquely preserved the city of Pompeii.

Not only buildings but also the colorful frescos on the walls are completely preserved.

Walking around the city is like walking back in time.

While some constructions are very damaged, others are almost intact.

Villa of the Mysteries is one of the examples and highlights of your visit.

Walking inside this villa, you will find well-decorated walls, including one of the biggest frescos in Pompeii, depicting in vibrant colors, what is believed to be the initiation of a woman into the Dionysian Mysteries, a mystery cult, hence the name of the villa.

Among other preserved archeological findings in Pompeii, are its inhabitants.

As the eruption caught some of its citizens while sleeping, and covered their bodies in layers of fine ashes, that calcified over the centuries, forming a kind of shell around their bodies.

Read: Visiting Pompeii, what to see on your first visit.

How to get to Pompeii from Naples

You can easily get to Pompeii from Naples by taking the Circumvesuviana train at the Naples Central Station, to the Pompei Villa dei Misteri stop, the trip takes around 35 minutes.

We have written a complete guide on how to get to Pompeii from Naples if you wish to know more.

Best Pompeii Tours:

  • 1 – Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius Tour – Take a tour from Naples to Pompeii, stroll around its streets, visit the main highlights, and finish your trip by walking to the crater of Mt Vesuvius, where you will have a beautiful panoramic view of the Bay of Naples. Pickup & drop-off are available, the tour also includes lunch and one drink.
  • 2 – From Naples to Pompeii and Herculaneum, Guided Tour with an Archaeologist – The best option if you want comfort and an immersive experience. This tour takes you from Naples to Pompeii and Herculaneum ruins in the company of an experienced Archaeologist.
  • 3 – Pompeii Entry Ticket and Guided Tour with an Archaeologist – If you prefer to get to Pompeii on your own and skip Herculaneum, this is a good option. In this guided tour you will also be accompanied by an archaeologist. The tour also includes an entry ticket.

Best Day Trips from Naples - Herculaneum

2. Herculaneum

For many people, the Herculaneum Archeological site is more interesting than visiting the Pompeii ruins.

The Roman city of Herculaneum, actually Ercolano, was at the foot of the Volcano Vesuvius that erupted in 79 AD.

The lava covered the whole territory for 1700 years, creating an airtight seal that has given us a well-preserved building.

Inside those structures have been found frescos and mosaics that narrate incredible stories from the past.

Herculaneum is a World Heritage Site by Unesco, together with the Archeological areas of Pompeii and Oplonti.

For many, the ruins of Herculaneum are worth a visit more than Pompeii.

This is because in Herculaneum you can get deeper into the history of the ancient Roman Empire.

But not only that. From the ruins, you can hike the active Volcano Vesuvius, for an amazing experience.

Another attraction to visit near Herculaneum Ruins is the museum dedicated to the eruption and the Vesuvius.

The MAV is the Virtual Archeological Museum, with an interactive area and a 3D video on the eruption that changed the morphology of the area.

Despite Pompeii being a more touristic site, recently Herculaneum has attracted travelers from everywhere and is becoming a popular spot near Naples.

This is because in Herculaneum you can get a clear idea of how ancient Romans lived, religious cults, standing houses of rich families, poor spots, and common spaces.

By Alessia & Toti of Italian Trip Abroad.

Read: Pompeii vs Herculaneum, which one should you visit?

How to get to Herculaneum from Naples

You can reach Herculaneum from Naples by Train.

From the main station of Naples, Piazza Garibaldi, taking the Vesuviana Train going through the surrounding towns, you can reach Ercolano Scavi in about 20 minutes.

Best Herculaneum Tours:

Best Day Trips from Naples - Mt. Vesuvius

3. Mt. Vesuvius

Are you thinking of adding a bit of adventure to your trip? Then going to the crater of Mount Vesuvius is the activity for you! Even though this is an active volcano and it’s among the most dangerous in the world, going to the summit is perfectly safe.

If there’s any sign of volcanic activity, the National Park where the mount is located gets closed, so there’s no risk.

The only way to get there is by car or bus (don’t even think of climbing from the foot of the mountain –you’ll end up walking on the car road, which is really dangerous and boring).

The parking is at about 1000 meters of altitude.

Then you walk for about 2 km, with a bit over 220 meters of elevation gain.

The path is clearly marked, and it’s not steep, so even if you’re not too fit, you can give it a try.

Once you get to the crater, you can do half a loop around it.

Even though the volcano is active, you don’t see lava, only a big hole with a bit of steam going out, which means you don’t need any technical equipment.

From the top, the views of the Bay of Naples are stunning, and you get to understand the devastation of Pompeii much better than visiting Vesuvius first.

When going up, do remember you’re on a mountain (regardless of how touristy it looks), so wear layers in case the temperature changes and bring water with you.

By Coni of Experiencing the Globe.

How to get to Mout Vesuvius from Naples

From Naples Central Station take the Circumvesuviana train to Ercolano Scavi station, in the station, there is a shuttle called Vesuvius Express that takes you directly to Vesuvius National Park, the shuttle runs every 40 minutes.

You can also take a shuttle at the entrance of the Pompeii ruins if you happen to be visiting it.

Best Mount Vesuvius Tours:

  • 1 – Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius Tour – Take a tour from Naples to Pompeii, stroll around its streets, visit the main highlights, and finish your trip by walking to the crater of Mt Vesuvius, where you will have a beautiful panoramic view of the Bay of Naples. Pickup & drop-off are available, the tour also includes lunch and one drink.
  • 2 – Half-Day Tour to Mount Vesuvius – Leaving from Naples and heading to Mount Vesuvius. This tour is great if you want to visit the famous volcano but still want more time to enjoy the city of Naples as well.

Best Day Trips from Naples - Procida

Procida

If you’re looking for a slightly off-the-beaten-track day trip from Naples, then consider visiting the lovely island of Procida.

Procida is the smallest of the three islands in the Bay of Naples, and the least-visited by a large margin, but it’s so gorgeous that it surely can’t be long until it hits the tourism big-time.

Procida’s total area is less than 2 square miles so it’s a perfect place to explore on foot.

Start at the Marina Grande, where your ferry from Naples will dock; most carry on to Ischia, just 20 minutes further on. Marina Grande is pretty, but the best of Procida is yet to come.

Walk along the waterfront and then head over the hill at the island’s narrowest point to reach Marina di Corricella and the medieval citadel.

On the way up to the castle, look over the wall and you’ll see one of the most beautiful views in Europe.

The curving bay is lined with fishermen’s houses, painted in a rainbow of pastel colors.

The sea glitters, and brightly-colored boats bob in the harbor, ready to go back out to sea again – Procida is still very much a working island.

If you can tear yourself away from that view, you’ll find there are lots of other things to do in Procida.

Exploring the narrow streets is a feast for the eyes, while the medieval citadel (a fortified village) at the island’s highest point is imposing and intriguing.

You can also enjoy time on one of the many beaches on Procida.

By Helen of Helen on her Holidays.

Read: A Guide for a Day in Procida.

How to get to Procida from Naples

You can take a ferry from Naples to Procida.

You can either take the car and passenger ferry from Naples Porta di Massa, the journey takes one hour and 10 minutes, or the foot-passenger-only ferry from Naples Beverello port, in this case, the journey takes 40 minutes.

The ferries work every year round.

Best Procida Tours:

  • 1 – Day Trip from Naples to Procida with Lunch – This is a convenient way to visit Procida. On this guided tour you will taken from Naples to Procida for the day, it includes the round-trip ferry and lunch. It is a great option if you are looking for comfort.
  • 2 – Procida boat tour: Swimming + Underwater Photos – No trip to the coast is complete without a boat tour, in this, you will have the chance to swim in the crystal clear water of the Procida coastline and take underwater photos.
  • 3 – Lunch/Dining experience at a local’s home – If you are looking for an immersive experience, I suggest this tour. In it, you get the chance to have lunch or dinner at a local family’s home, you will watch a cooking demonstration then proceed to a 4-course menu with local wines.
Best Day Trips from Naples - Ischia Island
source: Ischia Review

Ischia Island

Ischia, a small yet diverse volcanic island, is located in the shimmering turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.  With its proximity to Naples, hop on a speedy hydrofoil to arrive at this lovely island in just an hour.

The best way to explore this scenic island is to hop on a scooter and sightsee with the wind hitting your face all while breathing in the salty air. 

Rent scooters to independently explore the island, or arrange a guided tour that can be customized to suit your interests best.

Ischia, although small, packs a diverse range of activities for those lucky to visit.  The island is only 10 km long but provides almost 35 kilometers of stunning coastline dashed with iconic viewpoints, churches, and of course, inviting beaches.

By scooter, the island’s main highlights include the stunning Aragonese Castle. Walk over a wide stone bridge and gaze up to see jaw-dropping views of the towering medieval castle. 

In addition to the mighty castle, make sure to stop in at least one of the 75 churches on the island.

Each church is a serene sanctuary, and most of them boast incredible cliffside vistas.  Keep your eyes open for ancient history in the form of an aqueduct that merges into the modern road. 

If you love gardens, stroll the picturesque Giardini la Mortella, a unique botanical garden showcasing rare and diverse plants.

The garden provides an incredible backdrop of the sea below.  Indulge in the local wine scene, by stopping in at least one of the vineyards that climb up the rolling hillside.

Relax at the quaint fishing village of Sant’Angelo, to see a contrasting side of the island.

Nature lovers can explore deeper by tackling a hillside trek.  There is no such thing as a bad view of Ischia.  Take a refreshing dip at one of the many beaches that are sprinkled along the striking coastline.

All of the above activities are worthwhile, but the most popular activity on the island is soaking in the natural thermal waters, a benefit of the volcanic activity. 

Soak with locals at the Baia di Sorgeto Ischia, a free, natural option, or spend the day relaxing at an official Terme.

Termes are found all around the island and fit any budget.  For those looking for a slice of heaven, try the Terme Giardini Poseidon. 

Follow along with the circuit or relax and dip into whatever pool feels right. The curative pools run from 28-40 °C and are perfectly placed in garden terraces with ocean views.

Appreciate the views of the beach below, or stare up at the mighty hillsides that engulf this tranquil space. 

Spend all day dipping in the pools and sea, sitting in the sauna, or receiving a spa treatment.  Ischia’s most beloved treasure is the steamy healing waters of the Termes.

Ischia is a treat to explore by land, but for another perspective, hop on a boat.  Boat tours cruise along the coast and stop at various hot spots.

This little gem of an island is incredibly diverse and includes highlights from the sea to its cliff-side hilltops.  Scooter, Hike, swim, or boat, there are so many ways to discover all of Ischia’s treasures. 

From the medieval castle on a hill to vineyards, gardens, and termes, Ischia is a small slice of paradise in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

By Meghan of Packing Up The Pieces.

How to get to Ischia from Naples

To get to Ischia from Naples you should take a ferry. The trip takes around 1 hour. Ferries run every 50 minutes or 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on the operator.

Best Ischia Tours:

  • 1 – Ischia tour from Naples – This one-day tour takes you from Naples to Ischia and gives you a chance to explore the island at your own pace. it includes the ferry tickets and a 3-course lunch in a traditional restaurant.
  • 2 – Boat tour with Lunch – What about seeing the island from a different angle? In this boat tour, you will cover all corners of Ischia, with a stop for snorkeling and a traditional Neapolitan lunch included.
Best Day Trips from Naples - Sorrento

Sorrento

The beautiful city of Sorrento, Italy, located on the Amalfi Coast, is an easy day trip from Naples. There are several ways to arrive from Naples which is less than 50 km from Sorrento.

A ferry is a great option because you get some beautiful views of the Italian Coast as you travel. The train is another viable option.

Once you get to Sorrento, head to the Piazzo Tasso and take the miniature train ride around the city to get acquainted with it.

It only lasts about 30 minutes but is a great introduction to Sorrento. Then spend some time walking around the Piazzo.

Located near the piazza is one of my favorite restaurants in the world, Tavern Allegra.

Head there for lunch or dinner – you will not be disappointed!

Take a hike to the Bagni della Regina Giovanna, and if it’s hot, take a dip in the water before climbing around the ruins of the old castle.

If you like to walk and want to get outdoors, this is a must-do.

If you love churches, head to one of the most rustic and quaint ones, the Chioareo di San Francesco. Many weddings are held there so you might be lucky and see one.

There are a plethora of things to do in Sorrento that make it the perfect quick afternoon or day trip from Naples but why just do a day trip? I recommend staying a couple of nights in Sorrento and heading to Capri one day and Positano another day.

It is the perfect spot to continue exploring one of the most beautiful areas of Italy, the Amalfi Coast.

By Pam of Travel Hacking Mom.

How to get to Sorrento from Naples

To get to Sorrento from Naples you should take a ferry, the trip takes only 45 minutes.

Best Sorrento Tours from Naples

Best Day Trips from Naples - Capri

Capri

One of the most unique and beautiful day trips from Naples is the island of Capri, located in the Gulf of Naples off the tip of the Sorrentine peninsula.

The only way to get to the island is by private boat or by ferry boat from Naples, Sorrento, and in the summer from Positano, Salerno, and Ischia, Capri’s island neighbor.

The ferries run throughout the day and arrive loaded with day-tripping tourists.

There are many unique things to do in Capri even in just a day, but spending the night is always a good idea as well, so you can enjoy the quiet of the island as only few see it.

High-end designer shopping may be popular on Capri, but the island is surrounded by crystal clear cobalt blue waters making it a great place for water activities.

One of the best adventures to have is taking a boat tour to the island’s Blue Grotto, so named because the water inside the grotto seems to glow from underneath.

Taking a small boat tour, swimming at one of the beaches, and enjoying a picnic lunch of local delicacies with a bottle of wine are some of the best ways to indulge in Capri.

Have an early dinner in the dreamy setting of one of the fine restaurants in and around the Piazza Umberto, also known as La Piazzetta, then take the last ferry back to Naples.

Whether a day trip or a few nights, Capri is one island destination that will always call you back.

By Lori of Travlinmad.

How to get to Capri from Naples

The best option is to take a ferry from Naples to Capri, the fastest ferry takes around 40 minutes to get to Capri, while others can take up to 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Best Capri Tours:

  • 1 – From Naples: Capri & Blue Grotto – Get the most from your day trip to Capri, with the best comfort. This day trip will take you from Naples to Capri and visit the Blue Grotto, Capri’s most famous attraction. It includes all the transport (ferry, minibus, and boat), a local guide, and the ticket entrance to the Blue Grotto.
  • 2 – Capri Private Boat Tour – Nothing better than exploring Capri in a private boat tour. In this half-day tour, you will be able to stop for swimming or snorkeling, and also try their homemade limoncello on board.
Best Day Trips from Naples - Positano
source: WOC Travel

Positano

Positano is only a short train ride and bus transfer from Naples.

The train ride is ~1 hour and the bus ride along the Amalfi Highway takes roughly another hour.

Positano is one of the thirteen cities that comprise the Amalfi Coast, and it is arguably one of the most beautiful cities.

With a day in Positano there are a lot of sites to see so if, at all possible, you may want to book a hotel for a night. However, with only one day, visiting one of Positano’s world-renowned beaches is a must.

Fornillo is the more trafficked beach and Arienzo, while a bit more challenging to get to is the most tranquil.

In addition to the beautiful beaches in Positano, there is a hiking trail named the Path of the Gods.

If you do not mind sweating a little bit the hike is well worth it to overlook Positano and the Tyrrhenian Sea.

If you are not interested in hiking, there is a cute shopping area with glass, clothing, and knick-knack shops; as well as restaurants and gelaterias that you can walk around and grab snacks throughout your day.

The Amalfi Coast is known for lemons so you should definitely try some limoncello or lemon gelato while you are visiting.

On your way back to Naples a ferry from Positano to Sorrento is a great option to see the beautiful Amalfi Coast from another angle.

By Allie of WOC Travel. 

How to get to Positano from Naples

To get to Positano from Naples you can take a ferry the trip takes around 2 hours. For more comfort, you can book a private transfer instead.

Best Positano Tours:

  • 1 – Positano Walking Tour This 2-hour tour will take you to the best of Positano, accompanied by an archaeologist guide. The tour also includes a visit to an underground ancient Roman Villa.
  • 2 – From Positano: Amalfi Boat Tour – Visit Amalfi Coast on this boat tour leaving from Positano. In this 7-hour tour, you will see both Positano and Amalfi from a different angle, swim in the crystal clear water, and enjoy some free time walking around Amalfi.
  • 3 – From Naples: Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello – If the sea is not your cup of tea, you can visit Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello leaving from Naples, on this bus tour.

Best Day Trips from Naples - Paestum

Paestum

Italy is not only full of archaeological treasures from the ancient Roman Empire.

There are some sites, like Paestum, that date back even further and were built by the Greeks!

The original Greek name for Paestum was Poseidonia, after the god of the seas.

Long before the Roman Empire was founded, Greek colonists crossed the sea to colonize this part of Italy.

The main buildings of the city that survive today include the outer stone wall, an amphitheater, and three Doric temples dedicated to the gods Athena, Hera, and Neptune.

All of these structures are remarkably well preserved, considering that they have been standing for about 2,500 years! The ancient city has been turned into an archeological park and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There’s a lot to see here, including an on-site museum with some world-class exhibits, so allow yourself a few hours to take it all in.

Inside the museum, don’t miss the fresco of a naked man executing an acrobatic dive into a pool of water.

Trains between Napoli Centrale station to Paestum are fairly frequent. Regionale trains offer the best value, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes and costing 6.50 euros each way.

The Intercity trains cost almost twice as much and don’t save you much time.

Eating options around Paestum are pretty limited, so you may want to bring takeout from one of the many great restaurants in Naples.

By Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan.

How to get to Paestum from Naples

To get to Paestum, you can take a train at the Naples Central Station, it takes 1 hour and 14 minutes.

Best Pastum Tours:

  • 1 – From Naples to Paestum & skip-the-line ticket – This day trip includes the round trip by train and a skip-the-line to the famous ruins and Archaeological Museum. The tour does not include a guide.
  • 2 – Paestum Guided Tour – A 2-hour guided tour through the Greek ruins and the National Archaeological Museum of Paestum.

More About Italy

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This text was originally written and posted in March 2020 and updated in April 2024. New information has been added and links have been updated so that it could offer a better experience to the reader.

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2 Comments

  1. I wanted to go to Ital last year with my family, but this pandemic destroyed our plans. Thank you for this article! I bought a new Cobalt boat this spring. I think it’s a sign that we definitely should visit this place when this virus is over. I hope it’s going to be soon.

    1. That would definitely be a great trip!! I hope this pandemia will ends soon so you can finally enjoy your boat. You should definitely go there, Italy’s coast is a must, specially if you have a boat!

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