A Taste of Southern Italy: Naples, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii & Capri

Following a buffet breakfast in a gorgeous location overlooking the bay of Naples today at the hotel, we will begin a unique adventure through the city where over the course of the day you will discover food, history, and culture in the city's vibrant streets with your local host who has grown up in Naples and knows the city like the back fo his hands.  

After a short walk from Chiaia to the historical center of the city, we will head to the Gran Caffè Gambrinus, one of the city’s most historic cafés. Here, you can enjoy espresso in the birthplace of Espresso and should you wish a flaky sfogliatella,   Across the street, we will also enjoy the Piazza del Plebiscito, taking in the grandeur of the Royal Palace.  

For lunch, experience Naples’ most famous culinary treasure—pizza. Enjoy an authentic pizza margherita at Sorbillo, where the world-renowned dish is made with simple yet perfect ingredients: San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, fresh basil, and extra virgin olive oil, all cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven.

After lunch, wander through the lively streets of Spaccanapoli, exploring artisan shops and historic landmarks like the Sansevero Chapel, home to the breathtaking Veiled Christ sculpture. Stop by Via San Gregorio Armeno, famous for its intricate, handcrafted nativity scenes, before indulging in a bit of shopping along Via Toledo and the luxury boutiques of Via Chiaia.

As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the Lungomare, Naples’ scenic waterfront, and enjoy a classic Italian aperitivo with stunning views of Mount Vesuvius. Dinner is a true feast for the senses, featuring fresh seafood or classic Neapolitan dishes paired with local wines at one of the city's historic trattorias.

End the night on a sweet note with a babà al rum or a traditional pastiera, followed by a sip of limoncello. If you’re up for more, experience Naples’ lively nightlife in the stylish bars of Chiaia, where the city comes alive under the night sky.

Rest of the evening at leisure in Naples. 

This morning is going to be an unforgettable day and perhaps one of the highlights of the entire trip where following breakfast we will head down to the port of Nerano to board our watercraft to the magnificent island of Capri.   Since we will be on the water today, make sure to bring appropriate attire, sunscreen and other items you may need to enjoy a day at sea.  A full list of what will be required in terms of attire each day will be provided before you start of the trip, so don't worry! 

As we head across the Bay of Naples from Nerano to Capri, we will enjoy an exclusive tour around the island where you will get to visit dozens of grottoes including the Blue Grotto, which we will head to firstly in the morning to avoid lines.   Sometimes there can be huge lines to visit the Blue Grotto, so we try to get there as quickly as possible.

Following an incredible tour around the island itself we will get to disembark the watercraft at the Capri Palace Hotel where an incredible experience this afternoon is going to be waiting for you and you will have an opportunity to dine at the De Riccio restaurant, which by all accounts is a once in a lifetime dining experience.

Following a truly gourmet lunch here you will have time for shopping and time at leisure in Capri where you can enjoy some of the finest fashion and perfumes in Italy.

In the later afternoon, hopefully around the sunset hour where we can be out on the water, we will head back to our hotel in Sorrento. 

After a long day, you will be able to dine and rest at leisure this evening.  
 

A Full-Day Food and Wine Experience on the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast — a dramatic stretch of coastline along southern Italy — is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate. With its terraced vineyards, fragrant lemon groves, and an abundance of fresh, local produce, this region is a true culinary paradise. A full-day food and wine experience on the Amalfi Coast allows you to dive deep into its rich food traditions, taste exquisite wines, and indulge in authentic local dishes, all while soaking in the stunning views of the sea, cliffs, and rolling hills.

Morning: Arrival and Local Market Tour in Amalfi

Your food and wine journey begins in Amalfi, one of the most iconic towns along the coast. The day starts early, with a meet-and-greet with your expert guide at a central location in Amalfi. Here, you’ll get a quick introduction to the region’s food culture before heading to the town's lively local market. As you stroll through the market stalls, you’ll be able to take in the vibrant colors and smells of fresh produce. Local vendors sell everything from sun-ripened tomatoes, lemons, and fresh herbs to cheeses, olives, and cured meats.

Your guide will explain the significance of many of the ingredients you see — like the famous Amalfi lemons, which are used in everything from limoncello to savory dishes, and the fresh mozzarella di bufala from nearby Campania. You’ll also learn about the region’s seafood, including anchovies, clams, and squid, which play a central role in Amalfi Coast cuisine.

Mid-Morning: Visit to a Local Farm for Olive Oil and Limoncello Tasting

After the market tour, your guide will take you to a family-run farm located on the hills above Amalfi. This is where the magic of local production happens — the farm specializes in both olive oil and the production of limoncello, the famous lemon liqueur that originates from the Amalfi Coast.

At the farm, you’ll get an in-depth look at the process of olive oil production, from the cultivation of olives to the cold-pressing process that ensures the production of high-quality, extra virgin olive oil. You’ll have the chance to taste different types of olive oils, including those made from local varieties like Ogliarola and Leccino. The tasting will be accompanied by fresh bread to fully appreciate the flavors and aromas of each oil.

Next, you’ll be introduced to the farm’s limoncello production. After a brief demonstration on how the Amalfi lemons are harvested and used to make the liqueur, you’ll have the opportunity to taste a small glass of homemade limoncello, freshly made with the zesty Amalfi lemons. This will be your first taste of the island’s most famous beverage, and you’ll immediately feel the connection between the land, its produce, and its traditions.

Lunch: A Delicious Farm-to-Table Experience

Following the tour of the farm, it’s time to sit down for a farm-to-table lunch that features local ingredients, fresh produce, and homemade recipes. The meal is served in an intimate setting, either in the farm’s garden or in a rustic dining room with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea below.

Sample Lunch Menu:

• Antipasti: A platter of local cheeses (like caciocavallo and mozzarella di bufala), cured meats, and marinated vegetables. The platter will include fresh olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a drizzle of the farm’s own extra virgin olive oil.

• Primo (First Course): You’ll then enjoy a bowl of pasta with fresh seafood, such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) or linguine with anchovies and cherry tomatoes, dishes that highlight the fresh, local seafood and the region’s unique flavors.

• Secondo (Second Course): A roast lamb or grilled fish such as branzino (sea bass), paired with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad made with fresh greens, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of local oregano.

• Dolce (Dessert): The meal concludes with a delizia al limone, a delightful lemon sponge cake soaked in a limoncello syrup, often served with a dollop of lemon cream. A perfect sweet ending to a traditional meal on the Amalfi Coast.

The meal is paired with local wines: a glass of Falanghina or Greco di Tufo (light, refreshing white wines) to accompany the seafood and antipasti, followed by a glass of Aglianico or Taurasi (bold reds) for the main course. The wine is produced from the vineyards that stretch along the Amalfi Coast, where the terraced hillsides and unique climate create ideal conditions for these indigenous varieties.

Afternoon: Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard with Scenic Views

After lunch, you’ll continue your food and wine exploration with a visit to a local vineyard in one of the picturesque villages on the Amalfi Coast, such as Ravello or Minori. The journey to the vineyard takes you through winding roads with breathtaking views of the coast — the perfect opportunity to enjoy the landscape while learning more about the local wine culture.

At the vineyard, you’ll receive a guided tour of the vineyards and cellars, where you’ll learn about the ancient winemaking techniques and how local producers craft their wines using indigenous grape varieties. You’ll hear about the challenges and rewards of growing grapes on steep, terraced hillsides that face the sea, and how the unique microclimate of the Amalfi Coast helps produce wines with distinct characteristics.

The tasting session will introduce you to the best wines of the region, including:

• Falanghina and Greco di Tufo: Crisp, aromatic whites with mineral notes that reflect the coastal terroir.

• Aglianico: A rich, structured red that pairs beautifully with meats and hearty dishes.

• Taurasi: One of the top red wines from Campania, known for its depth, complexity, and aging potential.

The wine tasting is paired with local cheeses, salumi, and bread from the vineyard’s farm. The combination of stunning views, delicious wine, and local snacks creates a truly memorable experience.

Late Afternoon: Stroll Through Ravello or Amalfi Town

After the wine tasting, you’ll head to either Ravello, known for its lush gardens and panoramic views, or back to Amalfi, where you can wander through the historic town center. A stroll through Ravello’s Villa Rufolo or Villa Cimbrone gardens offers a relaxing way to absorb the beauty of the region, while in Amalfi, you can visit the cathedral and explore charming streets filled with cafes, shops, and local artisans.

Evening: Sunset Aperitivo by the Sea

Your day concludes with an aperitivo by the sea — a classic Italian pre-dinner tradition. Head to a seaside bar or terrace, where you’ll enjoy a refreshing glass of Prosecco or a chilled limoncello spritz as the sun sets over the horizon, casting a golden glow across the cliffs and the sea.

You’ll toast to a day full of incredible flavors, unforgettable experiences, and the stunning beauty of the Amalfi Coast, knowing you’ve just experienced one of Italy’s most coveted culinary regions in the most authentic way.

Conclusion: A Feast for All the Senses

This full-day food and wine experience on the Amalfi Coast is an immersion into the heart and soul of the region. From the bustling markets of Amalfi to the tranquil vineyards and rustic farm-to-table meals, every moment brings you closer to the authentic flavors of the Amalfi Coast. By the end of the day, you’ll have tasted the best of local wines, feasted on traditional dishes, and experienced the essence of southern Italy — a day you’ll remember long after you leave this breathtaking part of the world.