The Wonders of Pompeii, Herculaneum & the Amalfi Coast
8days from
£2,499*per person
Overview
8 days - Escorted Tours
From ancient history to dramatic coastal beauty, and vibrant Italian culture, discover the timeless allure of the Bay of Naples and Sorrento Peninsula on this exclusive escorted tour.
Our signature small tour is a treat for all the senses. You're invited to inhale the fragrant perfumes of the region's famous lemon groves, listen to masterpieces of the Italian opera and the Neapolitan songs, and dine on authentic cuisine crafted from locally grown ingredients.
Together we'll explore the cobbled streets of charming Sorrento with an expert local guide and trace the steps of history in the preserved ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, shadowed by the imposing presence of Mount Vesuvius. Cruise to glamorous Capri, a jewel of the Mediterranean, and wander its chic boutiques and picturesque harbours. Drive along the Amalfi Coast, with its cascading villages and awe-inspiring views, and wander the enchanting Rufolo Gardens in Ravello.
This holiday is ideal for travellers who want to savour every moment of Italy's most captivating coastline, from the hauntingly beautiful relics of antiquity to the serene, sun-drenched shores of today.
Itinerary
- Arrive in Sorrento
- Sorrento - Facing the Bay of Naples on the Sorrentine Peninsula, clinging to the edge of the cliff, Sorrento is a charming hillside town with a lot of character. From its maze of cobblestone streets, filled with lively cafes, to its busy marinas with sweeping views of the water, there's so much to explore on our guided walking tour, weaving through the heart of the town with a knowledgeable local guide. It's a leisurely start to our exciting tour of Italy. This afternoon, you are free to explore the elegant shops selling luxury leather goods and shoes and cosy restaurants, nestling in tall buildings with faded facades in typically Mediterranean shades of ochre, yellow and magenta. The region is famous for its lemon cultivation - Sorrento lemons have been given their own protected IGP (Indicazione Geografica Protetta) status in the same way as Parma ham or balsamic vinegar from Modena. 60% of lemon production goes into making limoncello liqueur, it can also be found in soaps, cosmetics and, of course, ice cream. So, if you're looking for the taste of Sorrento, look no further than a cool and refreshing scoop of lemon gelato.
- Pompeii - The story of Pompeii is legendary, but today is much more than a collection of ruins. It's a window into life in this Roman town nearly 2,000 years ago. Much of our knowledge about their habits, social structures, class system and domestic arrangements was discovered within the walls of Pompeii's well-preserved structures. Covering over 440,000 square meters, the buried city had public squares, temples, bathhouses, buildings and private villas. Many buildings still have murals and mosaics, while others are inscribed with graffiti describing political events, romantic entanglements and even gossip of the time - and they're still making new discoveries! While fascinating, Pompeii is also slightly eerie; the of Vesuvius's victims preserved for eternity still lie where they died immortalising their pained expressions. After a poignant visit to Pompeii, we will visit Vesuvius National Park, where we can enjoy fantastic views of the iconic volcano. Here, we’ll take a tour of the vineyard, followed by a delightful lunch expertly paired with the vineyard's wines.
- Capri - The most famous island in the Bay of Naples, Capri, has been popular since Roman times, even attracting emperors like Tiberius, who made it his home and ruled an entire empire from its shores. In slightly more modern times, writers such as DH Lawrence and George Bernard Shaw, and celebrities - from Leonardo DiCaprio, Lindsay Lohan, and Jackie Kennedy Onassis - are said to have spent time here, cementing its status as a playground for celebrities. Of course, its popularity is definitely not unfounded and, as we approach by boat, you'll begin to see why. The main town is perched on a hill looking down on the quaint harbour where small fishing boats and luxurious yachts bob in the water and restaurants line the busy quayside. You'll have free time to explore the island as you please before a spectacular cruise in a private boat. Enjoy Capri from a different perspective and take in the most magical of views of this glamorous island.
- Free day - Today is a free day to spend at leisure in Sorrento, perhaps to browse the numerous boutiques or enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the many restaurants that Sorrento has to offer. Tonight, we’re treated to the enchanting sound of the Three Tenors concert in Sorrento. Inspired by the original trio, it features three mesmerizing Italian tenors accompanied by strings and a grand piano.
- Amalfi Coast and Rufolo Gardens - Towns cascading down coastal cliffs, secluded beaches and fragrant citrus groves - the sublimely beautiful Amalfi coast is famous for all this and more! Our scenic drive takes us above the exclusive resort of Positano - a haunt of celebrities. We'll continue our drive inland along winding mountain roads to a hidden treasure of the Amalfi Coast: Ravello. Perched like a bird's nest above the town of Amalfi, this picture-perfect village offers breathtaking panoramic views. It has an ambience all its own, with an enchanting main square, a 13th-century cathedral and the Villa Rufolo, which was once the centre of a city-state and is now an interesting collection of medieval buildings, statues and terraced gardens (it was also the inspiration for elements of Wagner’s opera Parsifal). In the centre of the village is Rufolo Gardens, one of the most popular destinations on the Amalfi Coast. Dating back to the 13th century, the villa and gardens were built for wealthy merchants, the Rufolo family. After falling into disrepair, it was lovingly restored, keeping much of its medieval charm. We think you'll agree its moniker - the "Garden of the Soul" - is well-deserved as you follow pretty pathways and uncover beautiful, original structures dotted around the gardens, as you draw closer to the famous Belvedere overlooking the coast towards the seaside towns of Minori and Maiori.
- Authentic farm lunch - Pompeii's lesser-known cousin is also full of discovery. Like Pompeii, Herculaneum was also destroyed by Vesuvius in 79AD. Though much smaller than Pompeii, it was covered by almost 5 times more ash, creating a completely different level of preservation. It was first discovered by architect Domenico Fontana, who upon discovering the erotic frescoes from the ancient brothels, covered it back up. It was rediscovered almost 40 years before Pompeii, but excavations only began 100 years after those in Pompeii because it was much more difficult. We'll follow a guide around this spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site they'll bring the history of Herculaneum to life. As a small resort town, it has a more intimate feel and the buildings here are even more well-preserved. The frescoes and mosaics still display their vibrant colours as the volcanic ash that fell vacuum-sealed the city, ensuring spectacular preservation. From Herculaneum, we'll wind our way back through the hills and lemon groves to Sorrento, where we'll enjoy an authentic farm lunch of delicious, locally produced ingredients at a rustic, family-owned working farm. Set in the tranquil countryside, there's time to soak in the views before sitting down to eat. While we're here, we will also learn how mozzarella is made using traditional techniques, you will also be able to enjoy a tasting of locally produced olive oil, plus of course the local limoncello.
- Return home
What's Included
Holiday Highlights
- Visit the stunning island of Capri and discover its natural beauty.
- Soak in the sights of Sorrento on a walking orientation tour of the town.
- Embark on a guided tour of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and the breathtaking Amalfi coast.
- Visit the beautiful Rufolo Gardens with stunning views over the coastline.
- Enjoy an authentic farm lunch in the Sorrento countryside.
- Relax aboard a private boat cruise to experience glamorous Capri’s iconic island shores from a different perspective.
- Enjoy a tour of a local winery in the heart of the Vesuvius National Park. Followed by lunch with wine pairings featuring local produce.
- Listen to the enchanting sounds of Three Tenors in Sorrento, with a music selection inspired by the original trio.
Our Price Includes
- The price of this holiday is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin room. Single and sea facing rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. The price includes:
- Return flights
- Seven nights with breakfast and dinner
- All local taxes and transfers
- All tours as mentioned
- Entrance to Pompeii and Herculaneum
- The services of a Riviera Travel tour manager
- Average group size of 22 guests
- Welcome drink
- 2 local guides on most guided tours
- Please note Hotel Michelangelo is B&B - a dining option is available for 3 nights from £75pp
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Dates and Prices
Accommodation
Grand Hotel Vesuvio -
Guests can take the regular courtesy bus into Sorrento or take the 20-minute walk into town. Dine in the refined ambience of the hotel’s restaurant serving local and Italian cuisine then retire to the bar for a digestif while taking in the wonderful view. All the air-conditioned rooms are furnished in a fresh Mediterranean style with safe, minibar (local charges apply) and flat screen satellite TV. Please note the use of air conditioning and outdoor pool opening is at the discretion of the hotel.
Hotel Michelangelo - Sorrento -
Originally structured around the 7th-century stone tower, the property has a unique heritage. The bedrooms are light, spacious and airy with evident excellent attention to detail. Their understated elegance makes extensive use of dark woods, local terracotta tiles and tasteful fabrics. The rooms are all air-conditioned and have a hairdryer, satellite TV, telephone, minbar (local charges apply) and safety deposit box. To unwind at the end of the day, relax in the comfortable lounge or take a dip in the swimming pool surrounded by geraniums, jasmine and oleanders, giving that wonderful Mediterranean aroma to the whole scene. On the roof there is a sun terrace with sun loungers and views to the sea. Please note that the pool will be open during the summer months, depending on weather conditions. Pool towels are provided free of charge. A varied buffet breakfast is served each morning in the hotel’s restaurant. Some dietary requirements can be catered for, though the menu may be limited. Please note based on Bed & Breakfast only. 3-nights dining optional available to pre-book at a supplement. Please note the use of air conditioning and outdoor pool opening is at the discretion of the hotel. Room upgrades are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. Contact the Reservations Team to request an upgrade.
Villa Maria -
The three-star Hotel Villa Maria provides all the comforts of a modern, purpose-built property. The bedrooms are simply furnished and of course have a private bathroom, air-conditioning, safe and TV. Please note the use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature. The hotel has a good quality restaurant serving a buffet breakfast in the morning and a deliciously varied menu for evening meals. Spend your free time relaxing in the extensive bar and lounge area. Complimentary Wi-Fi available in the common area. The rooftop swimming pool and adjacent sun terrace is the ideal spot to soak up the sun, equipped with sun-loungers and umbrellas. Pool towels are available at €2 per towel per day. Please note the use of air conditioning and outdoor pool opening is at the discretion of the hotel. Room upgrades are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. Contact the Reservations Team to request an upgrade.
Grand Hotel Aminta -
The beautiful four-star Grand Hotel Aminta is one of the finest hotels in Sorrento. The elegant pastel décor has been carefully chosen to accompany the natural beauty of its surroundings. Spacious public areas within the hotel create an aura of relaxation and the panoramic window lounge offers you a seat in the 'living-room of the world'. The hotel offers comfortable twin, double and sole-occupancy rooms that are all tastefully furnished. All rooms offer direct-dial telephone, fridge, hairdryer, satellite TV and safe. Please note that the use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature. Enjoy views over the Bay during dinner thanks to the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows. The chefs pride themselves on preparing and serving traditional cuisine for dinner taking inspiration from local dishes, whilst a sumptuous buffet is provided at breakfast. The hotel has a wine cellar with a vast selection of wines, which you can take a look around at any time. Gluten-free and vegetarian diets can be catered for, though the menu may be limited. Take a dip in the hotel’s large, heated outdoor swimming pool and enjoy a drink from the poolside bar after your day of exploration, or simply relax under the sun one of the comfortable loungers. Pool towels are provided for free. Please note that the pool will be open during the summer months, depending on weather conditions. Room upgrades are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. Contact the Reservations Team to request a Sea View, Sunrise View or Sunset View Room. Please note, the use of air conditioning and outdoor pool opening is a the discretion of the hotel.
Grand Hotel President -
The Grand Hotel President is nestled amongst beautiful gardens, so there are plenty of areas to relax and take in those views during the day - by the pool or in the gardens - with a poolside bar close at hand to serve you a tantalising cocktail. And in the evening, you can relax and enjoy those views from the spacious Lounge Bar which also has an outside terrace. Then retire to your comfortable bedrooms with traditional Mediterranean décor, brightly tiled floors and wood furnishings. The twin and double rooms come with air-conditioning June to September, free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a safe and a hairdryer. Buffet breakfasts and waiter-served dinner are served in the hotel's Verdemela restaurant, with a buffet evening once a week. The hotel provides a complimentary shuttle bus into the centre of Sorrento so exploring on your own during time at leisure is always an option.
Other Information
Holiday code
R803Holiday provided by Riviera Travel
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE: This holiday is sold and operated by Riviera Travel (ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430). These ABTA and ATOL bonds mean that, when you book a Riviera Travel holiday, you can be 100% sure that your money is safe.