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Need a break from the chaos of Napoli? After years of getting lost, finding hidden gems, and learning the hard way, I’ve pulled together my ultimate list of day trips from Naples. From ancient ruins to island getaways, these are the places that keep Campania feeling fresh, no matter how many times you visit.
Naples hits you like a freight train – vibrant, chaotic, and bursting with life. But what I love most about this city is how easy it is to escape its frenetic energy and discover a completely different world just beyond its borders.
I’ve been lucky to be travelling to this bountiful region of Italy since childhood, across many trips, taking time to discover many of its corners.
Every time I come back, I stumble upon something new – maybe it’s a hidden alley in Pompeii I’d somehow missed before, or a secret cove on Ischia that the locals let slip.
This guide is basically my highlight reel of Naples’ day trips. It has taken multiple wrong turns, missed buses, and happy accidents to put this together over the years.
Whether you’re a history buff itching to wander through Herculaneum, a thrill-seeker eager to scale Mount Vesuvius, or a laid-back traveller dreaming of lazy afternoons on Procida’s rainbow-hued streets, I’ve got you covered.
I’ll let you in on my secret spots for dodging crowds (because even the busiest places have hidden gems), and share the kind of practical tips you only learn the hard way.
I’ve broken down the nitty-gritty of getting around and done my best to help you figure out which spots are worth your precious vacation time. Some of these trips might only take a morning, while others… well, let’s just say you’ll want to take note of when the final return ferry of the day is!
Whether it’s your first rodeo in Naples or you’re a seasoned visitor, these day trips showcase the incredible breadth of Campania – from its ancient wonders to its island paradises, and everything in between.
Cultured Voyages Top Naples Day Trip Resources
Best full/half-day guided experiences from Naples:
→ Pompeii Ruins & Mount Vesuvius Day Tour
→ Sorrento, Positano & Amalfi Full-Day Tour from Naples
Best guided tours at the day trip destination:
→ Pompeii: Skip the Line Tour with an Archaeologist
→ Herculaneum: Skip the Line Guided Tour with an Archaeologist
Wine lovers:
→ Scenic E-Bike Ride With Vineyard, Wine & Meal
Don’t forget!
→ Book your ferry tickets in advance during peak season.
Pompeii
Pompeii At a Glance:
- Distance from Naples: 25 km (15.5 miles)
- Travel Time: 30 to 40 minutes by train
- Ease of Access: Direct train connection with frequent departures
- Best For: A window into Ancient Roman life and culture
Pompeii is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. This ancient Roman city offers an incredibly well-preserved snapshot of life nearly 2,000 years ago.
With its proximity to Naples and excellent transport links, Pompeii makes for an ideal day trip. The site sprawls over 44 hectares, with about 170 acres excavated, including well-preserved houses, shops, baths, brothels, and public buildings.
I’ve visited Pompeii a few times over the years, and it just keeps getting better as more and more discoveries are made.
A highlight is the House of the Vetti, recently reopened after two decades of restoration. It belonged to two brothers who were freed slaves but managed to climb the social ladder. Their house is essentially ancient Roman opulence, designed to showcase their newfound wealth and status.
For a quieter experience, I recommend making your way to the House of the Golden Cupid. It’s a bit of a trek to the edge of the excavations, but that’s precisely why it’s so peaceful. Despite being one of the finest homes in Pompeii, it’s often overlooked by visitors.
As you explore, it’s important to remember that Pompeii isn’t just an archaeological site – it’s the scene of a devastating tragedy.
An estimated 2,000 people lost their lives here. The plaster casts of the victims drive this point home. You can find their locations on the Pompeii map (try to see the Garden of the Fugitives, it’s particularly poignant), and I’d strongly recommend seeking them out.
Good to Know: Insider Tips for Visiting Pompeii
To truly appreciate Pompeii, you need at least 4-6 hours. I’ve easily spent half a day here and still felt there was more to explore.
Pack a lunch if you’re planning to stay a while. There’s only one café inside the ruins, and queuing there means less time for exploring. The restaurants are all outside the gates.
If you’re visiting in summer, the heat can be intense. I’d recommend going early in the morning or later in the afternoon. A hat and sunscreen are absolutely essential.
A useful tip: you can refill your water bottles at ancient fountains scattered throughout the site. The water is safe to drink, and there’s something rather special about sipping water from the same source as the ancient Romans.
To escape the crowds, venture off the main streets. If something looks a bit far on the map, it’s worth the extra effort – most people don’t bother, so you’ll likely have these areas to yourself. These quieter spots are my favourite part of visiting Pompeii.
Don’t miss the Villa of the Mysteries on your way out. It’s a bit separate from the main site, but absolutely worth the detour.
If you’re short on time, you could combine Pompeii with Herculaneum or a climb up Mount Vesuvius. Be aware, though – it’s a lot of walking. You’ll definitely earn your pizza that night!
Insider Tip
I found that taking a guided tour followed by some independent exploration works well. The tour provides context, and then you can dig deeper into what personally interests you afterwards. I highly recommend this excellent tour by Walks of Italy which I took myself.
How to Get to Pompeii from Naples
Independently
The easiest way to reach Pompeii from Naples is by train. The Circumvesuviana line runs from Naples Central Station (Napoli Centrale) to Pompeii Scavi-Villa dei Misteri station, right at the entrance to the archaeological site. Trains depart every 30 minutes, and the journey takes about 35-40 minutes.
To find the Circumvesuviana platforms at Naples Central Station, head downstairs and follow signs for ‘Circumvesuviana’. Be sure to choose a train bound for Sorrento, as this is the line that stops at Pompeii.
Tickets can be purchased at the station and don’t need to be booked in advance. As of 2024, a one-way ticket costs about €3. Remember to validate your ticket before boarding.
If you prefer more comfort, consider the Campania Express train. It’s slightly more expensive but offers air conditioning and guaranteed seating – a blessing during the hot summer months.
Entrance Tickets For Pompeii:
- I highly recommend that you purchase these in advance if you’re not taking a guided tour.
- Timed entry tickets cost from €23. Purchase them at this link or alternatively, at this link.
On a Tour From Naples
For those who prefer a more structured experience, there are numerous guided tours available from Naples to Pompeii. These typically include round-trip transportation, skip-the-line entry, and an expert guide to bring the ruins to life.
Here are some well-rated options:
Pompeii Ruins & Mount Vesuvius Day Tour
4-Hour Pompeii Tour From Naples
Herculaneum
Herculaneum At a Glance:
- Travel Time: 20 to 30 minutes by train
- Distance from Naples: 13 km (8 miles)
- Ease of Access: Direct train connection with frequent departures
- Best For: Ancient Roman life, more compact and a less crowded experience than Pompeii
Herculaneum is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour Pompeii, but offers a uniquely preserved glimpse into ancient Roman life.
This compact archaeological site was buried under volcanic material from Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, and is a treasure trove of well-preserved buildings, artefacts and even organic materials.
Unlike Pompeii, Herculaneum was sealed by a deeper layer of pyroclastic material that hardened into rock, creating a natural time capsule. This unique preservation has allowed organic materials like wooden doors, shelves, and even food items such as figs and loaves of bread to survive.
The site is much smaller than Pompeii, covering only about 4-5 hectares, with only 25% of the ancient town excavated. The rest lies beneath the modern town of Ercolano, making further excavation unlikely.
One of the most haunting aspects of Herculaneum is its ancient shoreline, where around 300 skeletons were discovered huddled together in boat chambers. These remains, with their flesh and soft tissues vaporised, serve as a poignant reminder of the human tragedy that unfolded during the eruption.
Good to Know: Insider Tips for Visiting Herculaneum
- Herculaneum can be thoroughly explored in about 2-3 hours, making it perfect for a half-day trip.
I highly recommend taking a guided tour. The context provided really enhances the experience and helps bring the ancient city to life. This is the one that I took, and can highly recommend.
- Combine your visit with a climb up Mount Vesuvius for a full day out. The bus to Vesuvius leaves from the piazza right outside Herculaneum Scavi train station.
- The site is a 5-10 minute walk downhill from the train station. Just follow the main street down towards the coast.
- Be aware that the train system can be a bit confusing when returning to Naples. Make sure the destination on the train matches Naples, and don’t hesitate to ask a conductor or friendly local for help if you’re unsure.
Insider Tip
If you’re interested in both Pompeii and Herculaneum but short on time, I’d recommend choosing Herculaneum. Its compact size and excellent preservation make it easier to appreciate in a limited timeframe.
How to Get to Herculaneum from Naples
Independently
Take the Circumvesuviana train from Naples Central Station to Ercolano Scavi station. The journey takes about 20 minutes, and trains run frequently. From the station, it’s a short walk downhill to the archaeological site. Train tickets costs €3.
Entrance Tickets For Herculaneum:
- Skip-the-line tickets cost approx. €19 and can be purchased from here, or alternatively, from here.
- Alternatively, you could opt to take this excellent guided tour that I did once you arrive at Herculaneum.
On a Tour From Naples
Several companies offer guided tours to Herculaneum, and are most often combined with Pompeii or Mount Vesuvius. These usually include transportation, skip-the-line tickets, and an expert guide.
Here are some top-rated Herculaneum tours from Naples:
- Pompeii & Herculaneum Tour With Archaologist From Naples
- Herculaneum, Mount Vesuvius & Pompeii Day Tour From Naples
Capri
Capri At a Glance:
- Distance from Naples: 33 km (20.5 miles)
- Travel Time: 50 to 90 minutes by ferry
- Ease of Access: Regular ferry connections, but advance booking recommended
- Best For: Stunning coastal scenery, luxury and glamour
Capri has long been a playground for the rich and famous, but don’t let its glamorous reputation deter you – for its size, this picturesque island is also bursting with natural wonders and cultural sites.
As a day trip destination, I find that Capri has a tendency to be both rewarding and challenging. The island gets incredibly busy, especially during peak season (and even on a weekday in October), so planning ahead is crucial.
Upon arrival, you’ll likely find yourself amidst a sea of day-trippers.
Your first task is to make it up from the port to the main town. You have two options: the local small bus that goes to both Anacapri and the Piazzetta in Capri town, or the funicular that goes straight up to the Piazzetta.
I’ve done both, and I can tell you they’re equally tests of endurance and patience. Build plenty of buffer time into your Capri plan – your exploring won’t start the minute you land on the island.
Once you’ve made it to the town, Capri’s charms begin to reveal themselves. My own favourite spots include:
- Villa Jovis: The ruins of Emperor Tiberius’s villa offer a glimpse into Roman history and stunning views.
- Villa Lysis: A more secluded spot, this villa showcases early 20th-century decadence and offers beautiful vistas.
- Villa San Michele: In Anacapri, this villa-turned-museum boasts lovely gardens and panoramic views.
- Natural Arch: A dramatic rock formation that’s well worth the hike.
- Faraglioni Rocks: These iconic sea stacks are best viewed from a boat tour around the island.
Read more about what to see in Capri in my related insider’s guide to the island.
Good to Know: Insider Tips for Visiting Capri
As Capri is so popular, book your ferry tickets in advance.
- To avoid the crowds in Capri, simply walk a couple of streets away from the main tourist areas. The difference is remarkable, and you’ll get a much nicer experience.
- Expect prices to be inflated, especially in the main tourist areas.
- If people-watching is your thing, you’re in for a treat. Capri is known for fancy outfits and high-end shopping.
- Don’t be fooled by Instagram – Capri is more than just its glamorous facade. Its natural wonders and unique atmosphere are what made it famous in the first place, and you can still find these if you’re willing to explore.
- Consider taking a boat tour around the island to see the stunning coastline from a different perspective.
Insider Tip
If you’re looking to escape the “Instahuns” and experience a more authentic side of Capri, head to the less touristy areas like Anacapri or the hiking trails. The island’s natural beauty is its true star.
How to Get to Capri from Naples
Independently
Regular ferries and hydrofoils depart from Naples’ Molo Beverello port to Capri. The journey takes about 50 minutes by hydrofoil or 80 minutes by regular ferry. Book your tickets in advance for €28, especially during peak season.
On a Tour From Naples
Several companies offer day trips to Capri from Naples, which can take the hassle out of planning. These usually include round-trip ferry tickets, a guide, and often a boat tour around the island.
Here are some highly rated options:
- Bay of Naples & Capri Sightseeing Boat Tour from Naples
- Capri, Anacapri & Blue Grotto Full-Day Tour from Naples
Amalfi Coast (Positano, Amalfi, Ravello)
Amalfi Coast At a Glance:
- Distance from Naples: 60-75 km (37-47 miles), depending on the town
- Travel Time: 1.5-2.5 hours by ferry or bus, depending on destination
- Ease of Access: Accessible by ferry or bus, but can be challenging during peak season
- Best For: Stunning coastal scenery, picturesque towns, and la dolce vita
A designated UNESCO World Heritage site, the Amalfi Coast is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, colourful towns and crystal-clear waters. While it’s tempting to try and see it all in a day, I’d recommend focusing on one or two towns for a more relaxed experience.
Positano: Glitzy and heavily visited, Positano is the coast’s Instagram star. It’s a place to see and be seen, especially in summer. If you’re after that picture-perfect shot for your social media, this might be your bucket list destination. However, if you prefer less crowded, more authentic experiences, you might want to look elsewhere.
Amalfi: While busy, Amalfi is a charming town with a bit more rustic appeal than Positano. The town’s cathedral, with its striking Arab-Norman architecture, is well worth a visit.
Ravello: Perched high above the coast, Ravello is my personal favourite. It offers the most stupendous views of the coastline and boasts two fantastic gardens (Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone). It’s a great place to stay and an equally rewarding day trip destination.
Good to Know: Insider Tips for Visiting the Amalfi Coast
- Realistically, you can visit either Amalfi and Positano or Amalfi and Ravello in one day if travelling independently. Trying to squeeze in all three would be rushed and stressful.
- The best way to reach these towns from Naples is by boat. It’s scenic and helps you avoid the notoriously bad traffic on the coastal road.
- If you’re heading to Ravello from Amalfi, you’ll need to take a local bus or a (rather pricey) taxi. Factor this into your planning.
- Allow a couple of hours for each town you visit. Don’t forget to take time to sit in a piazza and watch the world go by – it’s part of the Amalfi Coast experience!
- Local buses don’t always run on time, and in summer they can be completely full, forcing you to wait for the next one.
- If visiting in peak summer months, consider sticking to just one town or those reachable by ferry to avoid transportation headaches.
- To truly escape the crowds, visit out of season or stay overnight. The towns become much quieter once the day-trippers leave.
Insider Tip
For a less crowded Amalfi Coast experience, consider staying in or visiting less overrun towns like Praiano, Minori, Maiori, or even Vietri sul Mare further down the coast.
How to Get to the Amalfi Coast from Naples
Independently
- By Ferry: Regular ferries run from Naples to Positano and Amalfi during the summer months. This is often the most scenic and comfortable option with tickets costing around €30.
- By Bus: Local buses run from Naples to various Amalfi Coast towns from €11. The journey is longer but can be more economical. However unless you’re really on a budget, I wouldn’t advise trying to enter the Amalfi Coast by vehicle unless you have a private driver or are travelling in the off-season, as you’ll be subject to many stops plus traffic along the way, which greatly lowers the cost:value ratio for me.
On a Tour From Naples
Joining a guided tour can take the stress out of navigating transportation and allow you to see more in a day. Many tours include a driver, which is the only realistic way to visit all three towns (Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello) in one day.
Here are some of the top-rated:
- Sorrento, Positano & Amalfi Full-Day Tour from Naples
- From Naples By Boat: Positano, Amalfi & Ravello
Ischia
Ischia At a Glance:
- Distance from Naples: 33 km (20.5 miles)
- Travel Time: 50 to 65 minutes by ferry
- Ease of Access: Regular ferry connections
- Best For: Authentic Italian atmosphere, thermal baths, and stunning landscapes
The largest island in the Bay of Naples, Ischia has become one of my favourite places to visit in Italy.
What I love most about Ischia is its authentically Italian feel. It’s a popular holiday destination for Italians and in-the-know foreign tourists, offering a different experience from its more famous neighbours, Capri and the Amalfi Coast.
Despite its proximity to these well-known spots, Ischia offers a unique landscape and value proposition. It’s a place where I truly feel I can switch off and relax – time ticks along in a leisurely fashion and the pace of life is most definitely slower than on the mainlaind.
However, I’ll warn you now – the biggest mistake you can make when visiting Ischia is arriving for a day trip and immediately kicking yourself for not planning to spend a few days here!
Good to Know: Insider Tips for Visiting Ischia
- To get a good overview of the island, take the bus line that circles Ischia, stopping off at various towns along the way. It’s an efficient and economical way to see multiple spots in a day.
- Alternatively, hire a local taxi driver. While more expensive, this option offers greater flexibility and local insights. They can take you to towns spread along the coast in a nice circular route.
- Don’t miss the Castello Aragonese, whose iconic image likely drew you to Ischia in the first place. It’s a medieval castle on a rocky islet that offers stunning views and a fascinating history.
- Ischia is famous for its thermal baths and waters, which are naturally occurring and unique to the island. Consider visiting one of the larger thermal complexes like Poseidon or Negombo for a relaxing soak. You can purchase a day or half-day pass and make your way around their various pools, taking time to lay in the sun in between.
- The Mortella Gardens are absolutely worthy of a couple of hours of your time. These beautifully landscaped botanical gardens offer a peaceful retreat and stunning views.
- Each of these attractions can be easily reached by bus from the various ports on Ischia.
Insider Tip
If you’re short on time, focus on one area of the island rather than trying to see everything. The thermal baths, Castello Aragonese, and the nearest town could easily fill a day trip.
How to Get to Ischia from Naples
Independently
Regular ferries and hydrofoils depart from Naples’ Molo Beverello and Porta di Massa ports to Ischia. The journey takes about 90 minutes by regular ferry or 60 minutes by hydrofoil from €15 to €24. Ferries arrive at various ports on Ischia, so check which is closest to your intended destination.
There don’t seem to be many tours that run from Naples to Ischia, and those that do seem to be relatively self-directed once you pick up ferry tickets from a rep at the port in Naples. So I do think you are much better off making your own way to the island, and organising your own activities from there.
Procida
Procida At a Glance:
- Distance from Naples: 33 km (20.5 miles)
- Travel Time: 40 to 60 minutes by ferry
- Ease of Access: Regular ferry connections
- Best For: Authentic local atmosphere, picturesque scenery, and a slower pace of life
Procida is a miniature pastel-hued chocolate box of an island. This tiny gem in the Bay of Naples offers a truly local feel, where time seems to slow down and you can immerse yourself in the everyday life of its residents.
Whether it’s watching fishermen mend their nets or joining locals for a coffee and pastry at a neighbourhood café, Procida offers an authentic Italian experience that’s becoming increasingly rare.
What sets Procida apart is that there isn’t a long list of “must-see” attractions. Instead, it’s more of a place to simply ‘be’. The island invites you to slow down, soak in the atmosphere, and experience life as the locals do.
Good to Know: Insider Tips for Visiting Procida
- Procida is small enough to explore on foot, but if you prefer, you can hire a bike from the main port area to leisurely cycle around the island.
- Plan plenty of time for a long, relaxed lunch at Marina Corricella. Sitting at a waterfront restaurant here feels like you’ve stepped into a living postcard.
- The absolute highlight of a visit to Procida is watching the sunset from the high point at Terra Murata. As the sun goes down, it bathes the colourful houses of the marina in shades of peach, pink, and red. It’s a truly magical experience.
- If you can time your visit right (or better yet, stay overnight), head up to Terra Murata before sunset. There’s a cute little red van up there where you can grab an aperitivo to enjoy with the view.
- Don’t rush. Procida’s charm lies in its unhurried pace. Take time to wander the narrow streets, chat with locals, and soak in the authentic atmosphere.
Insider Tip
If possible, try to stay overnight on Procida. The island becomes even more magical in the evening when the day-trippers have left, and you can truly appreciate the slow, local rhythm of life.
How to Get to Procida from Naples
Independently
Regular ferries and hydrofoils depart from Naples’ Molo Beverello port to Procida. The journey takes about 40 minutes by hydrofoil or 60 minutes by regular ferry for €19 to €27.
As is the case with Ischia, little to no tours run from Naples to Procida, unless you want to organise one privately and pay through the nose. You’re much better off making your own way to Procida and then pottering away there to your own rhythm and schedule.
Mount Vesuvius
Mount Vesuvius At a Glance:
- Distance from Naples: 25 km (15.5 miles)
- Travel Time: 20 to 40 minutes by car or bus
- Ease of Access: Accessible by public transport or organized tours
- Best For: Breathtaking views, geological interest, and a sense of history
Mount Vesuvius, the infamous volcano that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79 AD, looms large over the Bay of Naples.
I’m going to hold my hands up and say, much to my regret and dismay, that I haven’t yet climbed Vesuvius. It was supposed to be a major component of my most recent trip to Naples, but unfortunately, I succumbed to quite a bad knee injury and wasn’t in any fit state to make the hike.
I had, however, researched the climb to the high heavens, so here is a brief summary of what I’ve gleaned in advance of my eventual ascent of this infamous volcano.
Good to Know: Insider Tips for Visiting Mount Vesuvius
- The hike to the crater is about 3.5 – 4 km round trip, with an elevation gain of 170 meters. It typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop.
- The climb is generally considered manageable for those with a reasonable level of fitness.
- There’s a timed entry system to manage crowds – only 50 people are allowed to enter every 10 minutes, so you’ll need to stick to your allotted time.
- Your entry ticket includes a 10-15 minute guided tour. Simply wait at the guide stand for the next available tour to start.
- Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, sun protection, and a light jacket (it can be windy at the top).
- The views from the crater rim are said to be spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the Bay of Naples.
Insider Tip
Consider combining your Vesuvius trip with a visit to Herculaneum. The Vesuvio Express bus departs from the piazza right outside Herculaneum Scavi train station, making it easy to see both in one day.
How to Get to Mount Vesuvius from Naples
Independently
- Take the Circumvesuviana train from Naples to Ercolano Scavi station.
- From the piazza outside the station, catch the Vesuvio Express bus.
- A return bus ticket costs €20, or you can get a combined bus and Vesuvius entry ticket for €30.
Tickets to Vesuvius: entrance cost €18 and can be purchased from this link (ticket only). You can also purchase an option which includes the combined bus ticket from the train station at Ercolano Scavi. Purchase it here – you might be lucky enough to snag it at a discount, which they seem to offer every now and again.
On a Tour
Many companies offer guided tours to Mount Vesuvius, often combined with a visit to Pompeii or Herculaneum. These can be a convenient option, taking care of transportation and entry tickets.
Here are some top picks:
The Royal Palace of Caserta
Royal Palace of Caserta At a Glance:
- Distance from Naples: 36 km (22 miles)
- Travel Time: ~40 minutes by train
- Ease of Access: Direct train connection, easy to reach
- Best For: Royal history enthusiasts, architecture and garden aficionados
The Royal Palace of Caserta makes for a grand day out from Naples, especially if you’re interested in the city’s ruling Bourbon family.
If your travels have piqued your curiosity about this royal lineage and the heights they scaled, then Caserta is a day trip not to be missed. It offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Bourbon rulers and the artistic achievements of 18th-century Italy.
Its architecture, sumptuous interiors, and vast gardens make for a day trip that’s distinctly different from the ancient ruins and coastal scenery that dominate many Naples itineraries.
Did you know that the Royal Palace of Caserta is actually the largest royal palace in the world by volume?
It certainly gives Versailles a run for its money in terms of opulence and grandeur. But it’s not just the palace itself that’s impressive – the elaborate and beautiful gardens are a unique offering that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Good to Know: Insider Tips for Visiting Caserta
- The gardens are huge, so I advise making use of the shuttle bus that operates within them. It’ll save your feet and allow you to cover more ground.
- If you’re more into royal families, opulence, luxury, and fancy gardens compared to Roman ruins, seaside scenery, and the regular Instagram bucket list spots, then Caserta is likely to stand out to you.
- It’s a really easy day trip to make from Naples – you can even do it in half a day if you’re short on time.
- The journey couldn’t be simpler: there’s a direct train from Naples, and it’s just a short walk from Caserta station to the palace.
- Allocate at least 2-3 hours for the palace and another 2-3 for the gardens if you want to do them justice.
Insider Tip
Consider visiting Caserta as part of a broader exploration of Bourbon history in the region. It pairs well with visits to the Royal Palace in Naples and sites like Capodimonte.
How to Get to Caserta from Naples
Independently
Regular trains run from Naples Central Station to Caserta, with several leaving each hour. The journey takes about 40 minutes, with single tickets priced at €4. From Caserta station, it’s a short walk to the palace.
Tickets: You can purchase your entrance ticket and train ticket here in advance for €35. If you’d like to make your own way to Caserta and take tour when there, this small-group Royal Palace tour is highly rated.
On a Tour From Naples
While less common than tours to coastal destinations, some companies do offer guided trips to Caserta from Naples:
- Royal Palace of Caserta Tour From Naples (5 hours)
- Royal Palace of Caserta Tour From Naples (4 hours)
Sorrento and Salerno
Sorrento & Salerno At a Glance:
- Best For: Launching points for Amalfi Coast exploration, coastal town atmosphere
- Distance from Naples:
- Sorrento: 50 km (31 miles)
- Salerno: 55 km (34 miles)
- Travel Time:
- Sorrento: ~1 hour by train
- Salerno: ~40 minutes by train
- Ease of Access: Both accessible by direct train from Naples
Sorrento and Salerno, situated at opposite ends of the Amalfi Coast, are often considered as day trip options from Naples.
While both offer their own charms, I’ll be honest – I wouldn’t go out of my way to visit either if you’re planning just a few day trips from Naples. There are more compelling destinations that deserve your time. However, if you’re keen to explore the Amalfi Coast region, these towns can serve as useful bases or starting points.
Sorrento, perched on cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, is known for its picturesque setting, lemon groves, and as a gateway to both the Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri.
It’s a bustling tourist town with a pretty historic centre, marina, and plenty of restaurants and shops. The views across the bay to Vesuvius are undeniably spectacular.
Salerno, at the eastern end of the Amalfi Coast, is a larger, more workaday Italian city.
It has a charming old town, a long seafront promenade, and serves as a less touristy (and often more budget-friendly) base for exploring the region. Its medieval cathedral and Arechi Castle are notable attractions.
Both towns are popular as day trips from Naples primarily due to their strategic locations. Sorrento is the jumping-off point for boats to Capri and buses along the Amalfi Coast, while Salerno offers ferry connections to Amalfi and Positano.
How to Get There From Naples
To Sorrento
Take the Circumvesuviana train from Naples Central Station. Trains run frequently and the journey takes about an hour for €4.
To Salerno
Regular trains run from Naples Central Station to Salerno. The fastest services take around 40 minutes for €6.
Insider Tip
While Sorrento and Salerno each have their merits, if you’re choosing just a few day trips from Naples, I’d recommend prioritising places like Pompeii, Herculaneum, Capri, or specific Amalfi Coast towns like Positano or Amalfi instead. These destinations offer more unique experiences that you can’t get elsewhere.
However, if you’re planning a longer stay on the Amalfi Coast, both Sorrento and Salerno can serve as convenient and pleasant bases for wider exploration of this beautiful region.
Off the Beaten Path: Day Trips for Return Visitors
While the destinations mentioned earlier are must-sees for first-time visitors to Naples, the following locations offer unique experiences for those returning to the area or seeking less crowded alternatives.
As a long-term and repeat visitor to Naples and the Campania region, these places are all on my list, though I haven’t had the chance to visit them yet.
Keep in mind that it may take several trips to get through all the day trips listed in this guide, but for those who love to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, these destinations are worth considering.
Paestum
- Distance from Naples: 108 km (67 miles)
- Travel Time: 90 minutes by train
- Best For: Ancient Greek architecture enthusiasts and history lovers
Paestum is home to some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece itself. The archaeological site features three magnificent Doric temples dating back to the 6th century BC. The on-site museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts, including the famous ‘Tomb of the Diver’ fresco.
Book this tour for when you get there if you’d like to be shown around by an archaeologist.
How to Get There: Take a train from Naples Central Station to Paestum. The journey takes about 1.5 hours for €4.
Pozzuoli
- Distance from Naples: 15 km (9 miles)
- Travel Time: 1h ~1h 30 minutes by train
- Best For: Roman history buffs
Pozzuoli offers a unique blend of Roman ruins and volcanic phenomena. The town is home to the Flavian Amphitheater, the third-largest Roman amphitheatre in Italy, and the Macellum (Temple of Serapis), which showcases the geological phenomenon of bradyseism.
Perhaps most intriguingly, Pozzuoli boasts an underwater archaeological park, the Parco Sommerso di Baia, where you can explore sunken Roman villas, statues, and mosaics through glass-bottomed boats or scuba diving tours – it’s extremely high on my Camania bucketlist since watching a documentary about it several years ago.
How to Get There: Take the Cumana train from Montesanto station in Naples to Pozzuoli. The journey takes about 30 minutes from €4.
Campi Flegrei (Phlegraean Fields)
- Distance from Naples: 20 km (12 miles)
- Travel Time: 10-45 minutes by public transport
- Best For: Nature lovers and those interested in volcanic landscapes
The Campi Flegrei is a vast volcanic area west of Naples. It’s known for its fumaroles, hot springs, and the phenomenon of bradyseism. Key sites include the Solfatara crater and Lake Avernus, believed by the ancient Romans to be the entrance to the underworld.
How to Get There: Take the Cumana train from Montesanto station in Naples to Pozzuoli from €3, then use local buses to explore the area. Alternatively, join an organized tour for easier access to various sites.
Benevento
- Distance from Naples: 82 km (51 miles)
- Travel Time: ~1.5 hours by train
- Best For: Roman and medieval history enthusiasts
Benevento is a historic town with a rich blend of Roman, Lombard, and papal history. Key attractions include Trajan’s Arch, one of the best-preserved Roman triumphal arches, the 8th-century Church of Santa Sofia (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the impressive Rocca dei Rettori fortress.
How to Get There: Take a train from Naples Central Station to Benevento. The journey takes about 1.5 hours from €26.
Planning The Rest of Your Trip to Naples
Now that you’ve got your day trips sorted, it’s time to round off your Naples adventure. Check out my one, two, and 3-day itineraries for exploring the city, along with my top tips to help you navigate like a local.
If you’re still deciding, I’ve also put together guides on where to stay, things to do, and exactly how long you should spend soaking up all that Naples and Campania have to offer.