Italy: Pompeii, Capri & the Amalfi Coast

Your vacation is about to begin! Spend your first night aloft and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.

Start off your first day in Naples right by having a Country Walkers representative greet you at the airport. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.

Pompeii Walk; 2 miles, easy. Ravello; 1 mile easy

After enjoying an included breakfast, your leaders will meet you at 9:00 a.m. in the lobby of your Naples hotel.

They’ll be wearing Country Walkers shirts for easy identification. Please be dressed for walking—walking shoes or sneakers with a sturdy tread are required.

After a brief orientation and safety talk, you’ll board a private motorcoach for the journey to Pompeii. Upon arrival, you’ll meet a local expert for a guided tour of the legendary archaeological site.

At dawn on August 25, 79 AD, the violent eruption of Mount Vesuvius caused the total destruction of Pompeii. In just moments, all the city’s residents perished while attempting to survive. The massive fallout of ash and cinder preserved the city exactly as it was, providing an extraordinary window into life in ancient Rome.

During your visit, your leader will share unique insights—for example, how political posters were used to advertise candidates in local elections, and how the term candidate comes from candidus, the white tunic worn by those running for office to signify their clean legal record.

Lunch is on your own in Pompeii.

In the early afternoon, you’ll travel by private shuttle to your hotel in Ravello and settle in. Later, join your leaders for a leisurely stroll through the town, starting in its peaceful, pedestrian-only center. Admire the white façade of the Duomo in Piazza Vescovado and the Arabic-Norman towers of Villa Rufolo, where German composer Richard Wagner found inspiration for the enchanted garden scene in his opera Parsifal.

This evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail on the hotel’s panoramic terrace, followed by dinner in the dining room.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Ravello circuit; 5 miles, easy to moderate, 1,000-ft. elevation gain and loss. Amalfi; 1 mile, easy

After breakfast on the terrace, join your leaders for a hike that begins directly from the hotel on foot. Leaving Ravello through the medieval gates to the north, you’ll quickly find yourself immersed in a tranquil rural landscape. The trail climbs through an area dedicated to the cultivation of chestnut trees, eventually reaching Passo O’Lupo—literally, “Pass of the Wolf.” Here, you’ll enjoy a simple picnic lunch to refuel before continuing your descent toward Fontana Caruso, the setting for English playwright E. M. Forster’s short story History of a Panic.

Return on foot to Ravello, where you’ll have some free time to relax by the hotel’s scenic swimming pool, browse local shops, or simply unwind. Perhaps you’ll choose to sit at a sidewalk café and try a delizia al limone—a confection of Limoncello-soaked sponge cake and lemon custard—or a slice of pastiera, a traditional cake made with ricotta and wheat soaked for several days in running water.

Later in the afternoon, regroup with your leaders and fellow travelers for a visit to Amalfi. There, you’ll stop at the Museo della Carta, a unique museum located in an ancient paper mill, where you’ll learn how paper was historically made from rags. In the 15th century, Amalfi’s paper was so esteemed that many foreign authors insisted on being published in Naples to use this prized material. The tradition lives on today, and exquisite handmade paper is available in the museum’s gift shop.

Enjoy some leisure time to explore Amalfi’s beautiful Duomo and stroll through its charming side streets—often refreshingly quiet in the late afternoon, once the daytime crowds have dispersed.

This evening, regroup for a memorable seaside dinner featuring local specialties at one of our favorite restaurants.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ravello to Minori; 3.5 miles, easy to moderate, 1,200-ft. elevation loss. Optional Independent Walk from Minori to Ravello; 1 mile, moderate, 1,200-ft. elevation gain

Depart Ravello on foot, passing remarkable monuments and churches as you begin your descent. Soon, the dramatic green hues of the Dragon Valley come into view, with the sparkling sea visible in the distance. Ravello is renowned for its churches, and you’ll encounter several along today’s route, including the impressive 11th-century Church of San Giovanni del Toro.

The initial stretch follows a paved path along the Valley of Reghinna Minor, heading downhill. The trail then transitions into a well-trodden footpath through a peaceful rural landscape, winding through woodlands and past former paper mills and scattered homes. You may even encounter pack horses or mules, still used today to transport heavy loads along the Amalfi Coast’s steep terrain.

You’ll arrive in Minori before lunch, with time to enjoy the beach or perhaps take a refreshing dip in the sea. En route, feel free to stop at the ancient Roman villa (free admission), a fascinating site that reflects the town’s long history as a favored Roman summer retreat—originally founded by the Etruscans in the 7th century BCE.

In Minori, take part in a hands-on ceramic class led by a local artisan, where you’ll craft your own tile as a unique souvenir. Afterward, enjoy a light lunch served in the studio.

In the early afternoon, choose to shuttle or walk back to Ravello. If you opt to walk, consider stopping at the famous Sal De Riso pastry shop to sample a decadent treat to fuel your return. The 1,000-step climb through the peaceful hamlet of Torello rewards you with breathtaking views.

Once back in Ravello, continue exploring at your own pace. You may wish to visit the gardens of Villa Cimbrone, where elegant statues and manicured paths lead to the stunning Terrace of Infinity, offering panoramic coastal views. Or take a guided tour of Villa Rufolo, whose cascading gardens inspired Richard Wagner’s second act of Parsifal.

If you’re in town during the Ravello Festival, don’t miss the chance to attend a concert—whether symphonic, chamber, or organ music—performed in spectacular settings. Tickets can be purchased in advance at ravellofestival.com, vivaticket.it, or at the main square’s ticket office ([email protected]).

Before dinner, treat yourself to a gelato at Il Baffone, easily spotted in the Via Roma alley just a short stroll from the main piazza.

Tonight, dinner is on your own—perhaps choose a charming spot you’ve discovered during your explorations.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Agerola to Nocelle; 4 miles, moderate, 600-ft. elevation gain

Today, you’ll shuttle to Agerola, Italy’s dairy capital, where you’ll begin a gradual descent on foot along a breathtaking section of the trail between Biscotto Caves and Nocelle, famously known as the “Path of the Gods” for its heavenly views. This well-marked path offers sweeping vistas of Capri and the islets of Li Galli (also called Sirenuse), said to be the home of the mythical Sirens who lured sailors with their enchanting songs.

Near Colle Serra, where the trail crosses a mountain pass, you’ll stop for an included picnic lunch prepared by a local farmer in collaboration with your leaders. Enjoy a simple, authentic meal featuring fresh garden vegetables, local sausages, and creamy mozzarella—all served in a stunning setting overlooking the cliffs and sea.

After lunch, continue your descent to Nocelle, where the “Path of the Gods” ends. From there, a leisurely paved road leads you to your meeting point, where you’ll reunite with your driver and travel to Sant’Agnello di Sorrento with your leaders.

Upon arrival, settle into your deluxe historic hotel, once a Jesuit monastery and the oldest hotel on the Sorrento Peninsula. Spend the afternoon at your leisure—stroll the manicured gardens, relax on the terrace with views of the bay, take a dip in the swimming pool, or head to the private beach for a refreshing swim in the clear blue waters.

This evening, reconvene for dinner at the hotel’s fine restaurant.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Capri Walk; 4 miles, easy to moderate. Optional Walk to Augustus Gardens; 2 miles, easy to moderate

This morning, board a hydrofoil for a scenic ferry ride across the Sorrento Peninsula to the celebrated island of Capri. Upon arrival at the island’s famous piazzetta—its lively central square—you’ll set out on an easy walking path toward Villa Jovis. Along the way, breathe in the fragrant scent of jasmine and admire manicured gardens bursting with blooms.

Built in the first century AD by Emperor Tiberius, Villa Jovis served as a strategic outpost from which he could oversee and control the opposite coast. The site offers breathtaking views, including the dramatic “Jump of Tiberius”—a sheer cliff more than 1,100 feet high, said to be the place where Tiberius had his enemies cast into the sea.

Continue your walk through a lush Mediterranean park, home to wild strawberry trees, myrtle, clematis, honeysuckle, laurel, wild asparagus, and delicate cyclamen. You’ll pass by Villa Lysis, a romantic retreat built in 1905 by an eccentric French count. From here, you may choose to explore Capri’s charming shops and cafés, or continue on to the Arco Naturale and Grotta di Matermania, two striking rock formations nestled in a natural cove once dedicated to Cybele, the Magna Mater—or Great Mother—of the gods. Reach this sacred site via a long flight of stairs winding through a shaded forest.

Take time for lunch on your own, either at a cozy island restaurant or with a picnic in a shady garden overlooking the azure sea.

After lunch, regroup with your fellow travelers and walk to the eastern rim of Capri to see the island’s most iconic natural features—the Faraglioni cliffs. These three towering sea stacks rise dramatically from the water and are one of Capri’s most photographed sights. Continue on to the Augustus Gardens for spectacular views of the cliffs and the serpentine Via Krupp. Your trail ends in Capri’s shopping district, where you’ll loop back to the piazzetta.

There’s time to explore the area around the piazzetta at your leisure before returning via hydrofoil to the mainland. As you cruise back, soak in the panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast from the sea.

Upon arrival, walk or shuttle back to your hotel, and take some time to enjoy the amenities, including a large manicured garden, swimming pool, and private beach.

Dinner is on your own tonight—perhaps try the local favorite, Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, made with rich tomato sauce and creamy fiordilatte, the region’s signature mozzarella.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Sant’Agata, Torca, and Malacoccola; 2.5-4 miles, moderate, 700-900 ft. elevation gain

Today, enjoy a leisurely breakfast followed by time for independent exploration of Sorrento. Choose to relax by the pool with a book, or head into town either on foot or via the hotel’s complimentary shuttle.

Among Sorrento’s many attractions is the Museo Correale, often called the “most beautiful provincial museum in Italy.” Housed in the former summer residence of the Correale family, the museum’s collection spans 24 rooms across four floors, featuring fine art, period furnishings, and decorative pieces. You might also explore Villa Fiorentino, a beautifully restored residence set within gorgeous gardens.

Lunch is on your own today—choose from the many cafés and restaurants scattered throughout the town. Afterward, treat yourself to the flavor of the day at Gelateria Da David, named for its friendly owner, Davide.

In the afternoon, rejoin your group and drive to Sant’Agata dei Due Golfi, where you’ll follow the Alta Via dei Monti Lattari trail, marked in red and white. This scenic path winds gently uphill through a chestnut forest, eventually opening to meadows bursting with multicolored, aromatic wildflowers. Just before reaching the promontory of Malacoccola, enjoy a stunning panoramic view over the Gulf of Salerno.

Next, you’ll visit a family-run organic farm, accessible either on foot or by your dedicated minibus. Explore the vibrant vegetable gardens and step into the production rooms, where olives, tomatoes, eggplants, hot peppers, and more are crafted into delicious preserves and liqueurs.

As the sun sets, unwind with a refreshing aperitivo, or join a hands-on cooking class, helping to prepare your final evening meal. Later, gather for a festive farewell dinner, savoring gourmet specialties while enjoying unforgettable views overlooking the bays of Naples and Salerno.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, enjoy breakfast and a leisurely day at the Grand Hotel Cocumella. Take time to relax, unwind, or head into downtown Sorrento for some last-minute shopping and exploration.

Lunch and dinner are on your own, with plenty of excellent options nearby. Detailed city information is provided to help you make the most of your day.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After an included breakfast this morning, complimentary transportation will be provided to Naples Capodichino Airport, scheduled according to your flight departure time.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Pompeii Walk; 2 miles, easy. Ravello; 1 mile easy

Your leaders will meet you at 9:00 a.m. in the lobby of the Grand Hotel Santa Lucia in Naples.

They’ll be wearing Country Walkers shirts for easy identification. Please be dressed for walking—walking shoes or sneakers with a sturdy tread are required.

After a brief orientation and safety talk, you’ll board a private motorcoach for the journey to Pompeii. Upon arrival, you’ll meet a local expert for a guided tour of the legendary archaeological site.

At dawn on August 25, 79 AD, the violent eruption of Mount Vesuvius caused the total destruction of Pompeii. In just moments, all the city’s residents perished while attempting to survive. The massive fallout of ash and cinder preserved the city exactly as it was, providing an extraordinary window into life in ancient Rome.

During your visit, your leader will share unique insights—for example, how political posters were used to advertise candidates in local elections, and how the term candidate comes from candidus, the white tunic worn by those running for office to signify their clean legal record.

Lunch is on your own in Pompeii.

In the early afternoon, you’ll travel by private shuttle to your hotel in Ravello and settle in. Later, join your leaders for a leisurely stroll through the town, starting in its peaceful, pedestrian-only center. Admire the white façade of the Duomo in Piazza Vescovado and the Arabic-Norman towers of Villa Rufolo, where German composer Richard Wagner found inspiration for the enchanted garden scene in his opera Parsifal.

This evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail on the hotel’s panoramic terrace, followed by dinner in the dining room.

Included Meals: Dinner

Ravello circuit; 5 miles, easy to moderate, 1,000-ft. elevation gain and loss. Amalfi; 1 mile, easy

After breakfast on the terrace, join your leaders for a hike that begins directly from the hotel on foot. Leaving Ravello through the medieval gates to the north, you’ll quickly find yourself immersed in a tranquil rural landscape. The trail climbs through an area dedicated to the cultivation of chestnut trees, eventually reaching Passo O’Lupo—literally, “Pass of the Wolf.” Here, you’ll enjoy a simple picnic lunch to refuel before continuing your descent toward Fontana Caruso, the setting for English playwright E. M. Forster’s short story History of a Panic.

Return on foot to Ravello, where you’ll have some free time to relax by the hotel’s scenic swimming pool, browse local shops, or simply unwind. Perhaps you’ll choose to sit at a sidewalk café and try a delizia al limone—a confection of Limoncello-soaked sponge cake and lemon custard—or a slice of pastiera, a traditional cake made with ricotta and wheat soaked for several days in running water.

Later in the afternoon, regroup with your leaders and fellow travelers for a visit to Amalfi. There, you’ll stop at the Museo della Carta, a unique museum located in an ancient paper mill, where you’ll learn how paper was historically made from rags. In the 15th century, Amalfi’s paper was so esteemed that many foreign authors insisted on being published in Naples to use this prized material. The tradition lives on today, and exquisite handmade paper is available in the museum’s gift shop.

Enjoy some leisure time to explore Amalfi’s beautiful Duomo and stroll through its charming side streets—often refreshingly quiet in the late afternoon, once the daytime crowds have dispersed.

This evening, regroup for a memorable seaside dinner featuring local specialties at one of our favorite restaurants.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Ravello to Minori; 3.5 miles, easy to moderate, 1,200-ft. elevation loss. Optional Independent Walk from Minori to Ravello; 1 mile, moderate, 1,200-ft. elevation gain

Depart Ravello on foot, passing remarkable monuments and churches as you begin your descent. Soon, the dramatic green hues of the Dragon Valley come into view, with the sparkling sea visible in the distance. Ravello is renowned for its churches, and you’ll encounter several along today’s route, including the impressive 11th-century Church of San Giovanni del Toro.

The initial stretch follows a paved path along the Valley of Reghinna Minor, heading downhill. The trail then transitions into a well-trodden footpath through a peaceful rural landscape, winding through woodlands and past former paper mills and scattered homes. You may even encounter pack horses or mules, still used today to transport heavy loads along the Amalfi Coast’s steep terrain.

You’ll arrive in Minori before lunch, with time to enjoy the beach or perhaps take a refreshing dip in the sea. En route, feel free to stop at the ancient Roman villa (free admission), a fascinating site that reflects the town’s long history as a favored Roman summer retreat—originally founded by the Etruscans in the 7th century BCE.

In Minori, take part in a hands-on ceramic class led by a local artisan, where you’ll craft your own tile as a unique souvenir. Afterward, enjoy a light lunch served in the studio.

In the early afternoon, choose to shuttle or walk back to Ravello. If you opt to walk, consider stopping at the famous Sal De Riso pastry shop to sample a decadent treat to fuel your return. The 1,000-step climb through the peaceful hamlet of Torello rewards you with breathtaking views.

Once back in Ravello, continue exploring at your own pace. You may wish to visit the gardens of Villa Cimbrone, where elegant statues and manicured paths lead to the stunning Terrace of Infinity, offering panoramic coastal views. Or take a guided tour of Villa Rufolo, whose cascading gardens inspired Richard Wagner’s second act of Parsifal.

If you’re in town during the Ravello Festival, don’t miss the chance to attend a concert—whether symphonic, chamber, or organ music—performed in spectacular settings. Tickets can be purchased in advance at ravellofestival.com, vivaticket.it, or at the main square’s ticket office ([email protected]).

Before dinner, treat yourself to a gelato at Il Baffone, easily spotted in the Via Roma alley just a short stroll from the main piazza.

Tonight, dinner is on your own—perhaps choose a charming spot you’ve discovered during your explorations.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Agerola to Nocelle; 4 miles, moderate, 600-ft. elevation gain

Today, you’ll shuttle to Agerola, Italy’s dairy capital, where you’ll begin a gradual descent on foot along a breathtaking section of the trail between Biscotto Caves and Nocelle, famously known as the “Path of the Gods” for its heavenly views. This well-marked path offers sweeping vistas of Capri and the islets of Li Galli (also called Sirenuse), said to be the home of the mythical Sirens who lured sailors with their enchanting songs.

Near Colle Serra, where the trail crosses a mountain pass, you’ll stop for an included picnic lunch prepared by a local farmer in collaboration with your leaders. Enjoy a simple, authentic meal featuring fresh garden vegetables, local sausages, and creamy mozzarella—all served in a stunning setting overlooking the cliffs and sea.

After lunch, continue your descent to Nocelle, where the “Path of the Gods” ends. From there, a leisurely paved road leads you to your meeting point, where you’ll reunite with your driver and travel to Sant’Agnello di Sorrento with your leaders.

Upon arrival, settle into your deluxe historic hotel, once a Jesuit monastery and the oldest hotel on the Sorrento Peninsula. Spend the afternoon at your leisure—stroll the manicured gardens, relax on the terrace with views of the bay, take a dip in the swimming pool, or head to the private beach for a refreshing swim in the clear blue waters.

This evening, reconvene for dinner at the hotel’s fine restaurant.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Capri Walk; 4 miles, easy to moderate. Optional Walk to Augustus Gardens; 2 miles, easy to moderate

This morning, board a hydrofoil for a scenic ferry ride across the Sorrento Peninsula to the celebrated island of Capri. Upon arrival at the island’s famous piazzetta—its lively central square—you’ll set out on an easy walking path toward Villa Jovis. Along the way, breathe in the fragrant scent of jasmine and admire manicured gardens bursting with blooms.

Built in the first century AD by Emperor Tiberius, Villa Jovis served as a strategic outpost from which he could oversee and control the opposite coast. The site offers breathtaking views, including the dramatic “Jump of Tiberius”—a sheer cliff more than 1,100 feet high, said to be the place where Tiberius had his enemies cast into the sea.

Continue your walk through a lush Mediterranean park, home to wild strawberry trees, myrtle, clematis, honeysuckle, laurel, wild asparagus, and delicate cyclamen. You’ll pass by Villa Lysis, a romantic retreat built in 1905 by an eccentric French count. From here, you may choose to explore Capri’s charming shops and cafés, or continue on to the Arco Naturale and Grotta di Matermania, two striking rock formations nestled in a natural cove once dedicated to Cybele, the Magna Mater—or Great Mother—of the gods. Reach this sacred site via a long flight of stairs winding through a shaded forest.

Take time for lunch on your own, either at a cozy island restaurant or with a picnic in a shady garden overlooking the azure sea.

After lunch, regroup with your fellow travelers and walk to the eastern rim of Capri to see the island’s most iconic natural features—the Faraglioni cliffs. These three towering sea stacks rise dramatically from the water and are one of Capri’s most photographed sights. Continue on to the Augustus Gardens for spectacular views of the cliffs and the serpentine Via Krupp. Your trail ends in Capri’s shopping district, where you’ll loop back to the piazzetta.

There’s time to explore the area around the piazzetta at your leisure before returning via hydrofoil to the mainland. As you cruise back, soak in the panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast from the sea.

Upon arrival, walk or shuttle back to your hotel, and take some time to enjoy the amenities, including a large manicured garden, swimming pool, and private beach.

Dinner is on your own tonight—perhaps try the local favorite, Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, made with rich tomato sauce and creamy fiordilatte, the region’s signature mozzarella.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Sant’Agata, Torca, and Malacoccola; 2.5-4 miles, moderate, 700-900 ft. elevation gain

Today, enjoy a leisurely breakfast followed by time for independent exploration of Sorrento. Choose to relax by the pool with a book, or head into town either on foot or via the hotel’s complimentary shuttle.

Among Sorrento’s many attractions is the Museo Correale, often called the “most beautiful provincial museum in Italy.” Housed in the former summer residence of the Correale family, the museum’s collection spans 24 rooms across four floors, featuring fine art, period furnishings, and decorative pieces. You might also explore Villa Fiorentino, a beautifully restored residence set within gorgeous gardens.

Lunch is on your own today—choose from the many cafés and restaurants scattered throughout the town. Afterward, treat yourself to the flavor of the day at Gelateria Da David, named for its friendly owner, Davide.

In the afternoon, rejoin your group and drive to Sant’Agata dei Due Golfi, where you’ll follow the Alta Via dei Monti Lattari trail, marked in red and white. This scenic path winds gently uphill through a chestnut forest, eventually opening to meadows bursting with multicolored, aromatic wildflowers. Just before reaching the promontory of Malacoccola, enjoy a stunning panoramic view over the Gulf of Salerno.

Next, you’ll visit a family-run organic farm, accessible either on foot or by your dedicated minibus. Explore the vibrant vegetable gardens and step into the production rooms, where olives, tomatoes, eggplants, hot peppers, and more are crafted into delicious preserves and liqueurs.

As the sun sets, unwind with a refreshing aperitivo, or join a hands-on cooking class, helping to prepare your final evening meal. Later, gather for a festive farewell dinner, savoring gourmet specialties while enjoying unforgettable views overlooking the bays of Naples and Salerno.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast today, bid your leaders farewell as your Amalfi Coast walking tour comes to a close. From here, you may return to Naples on your own for onward travel or choose to continue exploring the Amalfi Coast at your leisure.

Included Meals: Breakfast