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Italy is a fantastic holiday destination, with something to offer everyone, from spectacular scenery to beautiful beaches, and ancient ruins. Southern Italy in particular has many major tourist attractions and beautiful locations for travelers looking to experience an authentic slice of Italian life. If you’re looking for your next destination, then these must-see places are perfect for tours in Europe.
Alberobello: Architecture of Southern Italy
This unique town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved examples of Trulli architecture in all of Italy. The homes in Alberobello are built in the Trulli style, with conical stone roofs and the oldest examples date all the way back to the 14th century!
A historical tour around this Southern Italian town will help you learn more about the rich history and culture of the place. You can also visit the local shops or indulge in some delicious locally-made gelato.
Sorrento: A Beautiful Coastal Town
Sorrento is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Southern Italy and can easily be reached from Naples by train or car. With fantastic views of Mount Vesuvius, it’s also a great spot to stop off on your way to or from Pompeii.
Explore the maze of the historic old town with its narrow alleyways and independent shops selling traditional wares. Or for something a little more unusual, head to the Viale Enrico Caruso where you can view the Valle dei Mulini. These abandoned stone mills were built at the bottom of the valley back in the 13th century and were in use up until the 1940s. You can also take a boat trip or simply enjoy sampling the local cuisine and a glass of limoncello.
Maratea: Off the Beaten Track
Maratea is a medieval town positioned along the rocky coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s in the Basilicata region of Southern Italy and around three hours South of Naples by train. With an impressive 44 churches, a museum, and an elegant square – Piazza Buraglia, this small town is nestled high above the sea and offers an authentic Italian experience for visitors who like to get off the beaten track.
Castelmezzano: Breathtaking Hiking & Nature
Castelmezzano is a small mountainside town in the southern region of Basilicata and just over two hours from Naples. This authentic Italian village has stunning views and is steeped in history.
There are some incredible hiking trails around Castelmezzano and a breathtaking zipline known as the Vollo Dell’Angelo (The Flight of the Angels.) You can also visit the Gradinata Normanna (The Norman Stairway), which is a set of 54 steps carved into the rock of one of the Dolomite Spiers that surround the town. Once a lookout post for an ancient castle, visitors can now climb the stairs and admire the wonderful views from the top.
Capri: An Island of Southern Italy
The small island of Capri is located in the Tyrrhenian Sea in the Bay of Naples and is reachable from the mainland by ferry all year round. Capri has a beautiful town and marina for visitors to explore and the island has a fascinating history rich in mythology. Popular things to see in Capri include the home of Roman Emperor Tiberius, the Villa Jovis, and the famous sea cave the Blue Grotto, which is only accessible by boat, with trips dependent upon tides.