Must-Visit Italian Destinations to Make the Best of Your Private and Luxury Southern Italy Tours
Italy is widely known for its unique boot-shaped geography. But are you curious about what lies at the foot of the famous boot? If you’d like to find out, then be ready to book a Southern Italy tour package from the world’s best travel operators.
Why a Southern Italy tour should be at the top of your bucket list
Southern Italy; is often overlooked in favor of its northern neighbors like Milan, Florence, and Venice. These areas are famed for their luxurious amenities and romantic spots, drawing in ski enthusiasts, couples, and people who prefer the cold.
But if you’re looking for a profoundly Mediterranean experience, a trip to Southern Italy is the way to go. This region is home to the country’s hidden gems, such as the Amalfi Coast, Campania, Calabria, and Sicily. In addition, it is influenced widely by Greek and Spanish culture rather than Austria and Switzerland up north.
Overall, Southern Italy is the ideal vacation spot for anyone who loves an adventure. It’s a lovely destination that features numerous historical sites, sunny weather, exceptional food and welcoming locals.
The best places to visit during your Southern Italy tour
There’s just one problem: Southern Italy is massive. First-time visitors may not know where to start. Need help? Here are some must-visit places to help you plan your trip:
• The Amalfi Coast
Luscious beaches, coastal roads, and colorful homes are all unique characteristics of the Amalfi Coast. This Southern Italian region overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Gulf of Salerno, lauded as one of the country’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Amalfi Coast offers the perfect summer getaway for couples and families, highlighted by the picturesque and idyllic coastal towns of Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello. Additionally, youcan enjoy a private boat tour around the coast, exploring hidden corners such as Villa Rufolo, Praiano, and the Conca dei Marini.
And of course, you can’t leave the Amalfi Coast without taking advantage of the local cuisine. A private food and wine tour can help you discover tastes you’ve never imagined, from the Marisa Cuomo Winery’s flavorful wines to Italy’s widely loved gelato dessert.
In addition, you can further immerse yourself in the local culture by taking a private Amalfi Coast cooking class. You’ll learn about the history of Italian cuisine in the Villa Maria Cooking School, where you will then prepare a full-course meal with fresh ingredients.
• Calabria
Are you looking for an experience that takes you off the beaten path? The region of Calabria is known as the “toe” of Italy’s boot, and it sits between two seas: the Ionian and the Tyrrhenian.
Not many people know that Calabria; was once dubbed as Magna Graecia or Great Greece. The nickname speaks for itself, unabashedly shown in Calabria’s architecture, customs, and cuisine.
For instance, the Jasmine Riviera is home to the Cattolica di Stilo, a 9th-century Byzantine site designed to form a Greek Cross. You’ll also find stunning frescoes and breathtaking domes that make the perfect postcard to send home.
Calabria was also once ruled by the Germans, French, Turks, and Austrians. This resulted ina rich culture that shaped the region into its current form. For example, the medieval town of Gerace showcases narrow streets and marble cathedrals that date back to the 11th century.
• Naples
Craving for the hustle and bustle often associated with Northern Italy? You don’t have to look too far north because Naples offers the best of both worlds in Southern Italy. As the largest city in the region, Naples is widely renowned for its art, architecture, and high energy. You’ll never run out of things to do in the metro, from visiting must-see attractions like The Egg Castle and the San Carlo Opera House. Moreover, you can enjoy a quick yet filling lunch of authentic Neapolitan pizza—a world-famous dish with a fluffy crust and fresh ingredients.
After your meal, you can continue to explore Naples and its historical landmarks. The Naples National Archaeological Museum can give you an insight into the city’s illustrious history, holding treasures such as artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
• Sicily
If what you seek is a relaxing island getaway, Sicily should be at the top of your must-see list. This large island sits just off the toe of the Italian boot, surrounded by the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Like many Southern Italian regions, Sicily is influenced by cultures from all over the world. This includes a history significantly shaped by the Ancient Greeks, which has resulted in Sicily’s numerous Greek temples dedicated to Demeter, Zeus, Hephaestus, and Persephone. Sicily was also once ruled by the Germans, Arabs, and Normans until it was unified,finally under Italy. Because of this, you’ll find traces of global culture on the island, from its local cuisine to its yearly festivals.
Naturally, no conversation about Sicily will end without highlighting its food and wine. You will spend your Southern Italy tour with a happy stomach, indulging in the Mediterranean island’s freshly picked Pachino tomatoes and delicate Ragusa cheese.
You can also enjoy a trip through Marsala and Ulmo, sampling their flavorful wines and relaxing in the vineyards.
Preparing for your Southern Italy tours
Southern Italy is ready for visitors year-round, so prepare for the big trip. Seasoned travelers suggest that you pack some comfy shoes, a lightweight scarf, and sunblock to protect you from the southern heat.
In addition, don’t forget to learn a few Italian phrases and create a detailed itinerary. But if you don’t want to go through all the trouble of planning the trip, packaged Southern Italy tours are your best solution.
Southern Italy package tours offer the most convenient way to travel abroad, equipping you with a personalized itinerary, airport assistance, and luxury accommodations. Moreover, leading tour operators can provide a private driver and professional guide to help you navigate the streets of Sicily and Naples.
Make sure to look for an experienced private tour operator to ensure that your vacation goes smoothly and safely wherever you choose to go.