Campania contains several famous places close together on a map but not always simple to combine. Naples has rail and ferry links, Pompeii needs a focused site day, and the coast depends on buses, boats and road conditions.
Use at least two bases for a broad trip. Naples plus Sorrento or Salerno is more practical than crossing the region every morning. Capri works best with current ferry schedules and an overnight stay when time allows.
Start with Naples
The city is the main transport hub and deserves its own stay for historic streets, museums and food.
Choose a peninsula base
Sorrento connects well with Pompeii and Capri. Salerno can be more practical for the eastern Amalfi Coast.
Protect transfer days
Summer traffic, sea conditions and crowded services make tight coast-to-airport connections risky.
A practical itinerary
- Days 1 to 3: explore Naples.
- Day 4: visit Pompeii with current official access information.
- Days 5 to 7: stay in Sorrento or Salerno for coast travel.
- Days 8 to 9: add Capri or a slower peninsula day.
Ferries are seasonal
Routes and sea conditions change. Confirm the date, departure port and return connection.
Drive with care
Narrow roads, traffic and scarce parking make public transport or arranged transfers preferable for many coast journeys.
Places to add to your map
- Naples: Main regional hub for rail and ferries.
- Pompeii: Archaeological site east of Naples.
- Sorrento: Peninsula base for Capri and coast connections.
- Salerno: Rail and ferry gateway for the eastern Amalfi Coast.
Open the route planner to place these stops in a wider Italy trip.
Continue planning
- Naples travel guide
- Pompeii visitor guide
- Sorrento travel guide
- Amalfi Coast travel guide
- Capri island guide
Questions about Campania
How long should I spend in Campania?
Seven days cover Naples, Pompeii and one coast base. Ten to twelve days allow Capri and a slower Amalfi Coast route.
Can I explore Campania without a car?
Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento and major coast towns can be reached without a car. Driving adds flexibility in some inland areas but creates pressure on the coast.
Sources and updates
This guide was last reviewed on 28 August 2026. Transport, access and opening arrangements can change, so check the official source before travel.
- Italian rail timetables and travel information, Trenitalia
- Official Campania travel information, Italian Ministry of Tourism
- Official Amalfi visitor and transport information, Municipality of Amalfi
- Official Pompeii visiting information, Archaeological Park of Pompeii