Summits & Shores: Vesuvius, Pompeii & Amalfi 2025/2026

This tour is all about breathtaking views… and today you get to see them from the water. In the morning, we head off to explore one of Italy’s most iconic regions: the Amalfi Coast. This 50km stretch of coastline is known for its natural beauty, history and architecture. Dramatic cliffs, beaches and bays, terraces and personal touches of human artistry, all around you stretches sparkling ocean waters, terraced vineyards and stretches of orchards.

We head to our first destination: Sorrento. With panoramic views of the Bay of Naples, the iconic silhouette of Mount Vesuvius hiding among the haze ahead, Sorrento’s cliffside setting is the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Then it’s time to head into Sorrento’s historic Old Town, a true maze of narrow streets packed with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Grab a gelato or perhaps sample a famous Limoncello, a traditional lemon liqueur the region is known for.

That beauty just keeps on coming today as it’s back on the mini coach for our next stop. You may already know of Positano, especially if you’re a fan of the movie Under the Tuscan Sun. Today is your chance to explore it. Depending on the time of year, this is the day you may consider whipping out your bathing costume and popping down to the bottom of this cliffside village to take a dip at the main beach of Spiaggia Grande. If that’s not your thing, grabbing a bite to eat is always recommended in Italy. Always. And there are enough boutique shops, quaint cafes, and local artisans selling their wares that you’ll have plenty of things to do.

You hop on a ferry and you’ll find yourself in the seaside town of Amalfi. It began as a maritime power but today, this sweet and idyllic spot is one of the most charming destinations along the Amalfi Coast. Perhaps it’s the delectable gelato, or the smiles of the local people. Either way, you’re going to love it. Another ferry ride brings us back to Salerno for the evening, where you can enjoy a beautiful Italian evening with one of the region’s popular dishes. Buffalo mozzarella, anyone?

Your overnight accommodation will be in Hotel Plaza, Salerno or similar. (B)

In the morning, you travel north to face Mount Vesuvius. In ancient times, this mountain was considered to be divine and had connections to Jupiter – the god of sky and lightning. Legends say that the giants used to inhabit the volcano, which explained the loud noises and rumbling. Scary as this sounds, the titan is now dormant. So, put on your sturdy boots and get ready for an unforgettable experience because you can hike up to its crater.

As we make our way back to Rome, don’t think the excitement ends there. Our drive alone is a wondrous adventure; the landscapes that stretch out around you were shaped by volcanic activity. As we move inland, the region of Campania is your companion, distinguished by its beautiful agricultural landscapes. We pop into the town of Cassino in southern Italy for a quick bite to eat. What will your choice be today? Perhaps a quick takeaway snack and wander around town, savouring the last few hours of your tour? But don’t despair at the end, the tour isn’t over yet.

Now it’s time to visit the incredible Montecassino Abbey. Perched atop a mountain, it’s a sight to behold. A working monastery and a pilgrimage site, this place was a centre of art, culture, and learning. It was also the scene for a decisive battle near the end of World War II. You have your entrance ticket included and get time to stroll through the cloisters of the monastery and contemplate the turbulent history of war.

And as we head back to the Eternal City of Rome, now is the time to reflect on all you’ve sampled and savoured over the last few days. How is it possible you went from the ancient ruins of a Roman city one day to the majestic coastal villages that are the stuff of dreams? But it did happen, and you have your memories and photos alongside your souvenirs. The question is: which story will you tell your friends and family first? (B)