Top 10 Places to Visit in Campania
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Latest page update: 14 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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This top ten list brings together Campania’s islands, archaeological sites, coastal towns and royal landmarks. From the glamour of Capri and the volcanic beaches of Ischia to the dramatic views of Positano and Amalfi, the region offers some of Italy’s most recognisable scenery. Sorrento and Ravello add elegance and views over the Bay of Naples.
Pompeii and Paestum give insight into ancient civilisations, while Naples and Caserta offer royal palaces and bold city character. Campania is rich in history, beauty and unforgettable coastal settings. |
Positano, Amalfi Coast
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Ischia
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Ischia is the largest island in the Bay of Naples, known for its hot springs, sandy beaches and green interior. It’s less touristy than nearby Capri but just as rich in natural beauty.
Towns like Ischia Porto, Forio and Sant’Angelo each offer a different atmosphere, from spas and gardens to hiking trails and family-friendly beaches. Castello Aragonese is its most famous landmark. Ferries and hydrofoils leave daily from Naples. It’s ideal for a longer stay and offers more variety than other islands in the area. |
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Capri
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Capri is famous for its dramatic cliffs, luxury shopping and sea views. The Blue Grotto is its most iconic natural attraction, and boat trips around the island are a must.
Capri town and Anacapri are the two main centres, offering gardens, chairlifts, Roman ruins and boutiques. The Faraglioni rocks and scenic walking paths are visitor highlights. Capri is reached by ferry from Naples and Sorrento. It’s a popular day trip but worth an overnight stay to enjoy it in quieter moments. |
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Sorrento
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Sorrento overlooks the Bay of Naples and acts as the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. It’s known for its citrus groves, historic centre, and views of Mount Vesuvius across the water.
Piazza Tasso is the main square, surrounded by shops, cafés and churches. Walking paths lead to viewpoints, beaches and the harbour where ferries depart to Capri and Ischia. Sorrento is well connected by train, ferry and road. It’s a practical and pleasant base for exploring the region. |
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Positano
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Positano is the most photogenic town on the Amalfi Coast, with pastel-coloured houses tumbling down steep cliffs to the sea. The main beach is lined with restaurants and boat rental spots.
Shopping here is a highlight, with boutiques selling handmade sandals, ceramics and linen. Walks to nearby beaches and the Path of the Gods offer spectacular views. Positano can be reached by ferry or coastal road. The town is vertical, so be prepared for stairs — but the scenery makes it worth it. |
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Amalfi
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Amalfi was once a powerful maritime republic and now gives its name to the whole coastline. Its Duomo dominates the main square and features striking architecture and mosaics.
The town has narrow alleys, beach access, and boat tours to nearby coves. It also serves as a transport hub, with buses and ferries linking to Positano, Ravello and Salerno. Lemon products and local ceramics are widely sold. It’s a popular stop but still retains a strong sense of history. |
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Pompeii
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Pompeii is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, buried by Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Its streets, houses and temples offer a vivid glimpse of ancient Roman life.
Visitors can walk through villas with frescoes, public baths, forums and bakeries. The site is large — allow several hours to explore it fully, especially in summer. Trains run from Naples and Sorrento. Guided tours are recommended for understanding the site’s layout and history. |
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Ravello
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Ravello sits high above the Amalfi Coast and is known for its peaceful atmosphere and dramatic views. It’s less crowded than Amalfi or Positano but just as captivating.
The Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone offer stunning gardens and terraces overlooking the sea. The town also hosts a world-class music festival in summer. Ravello is accessed by bus or car from Amalfi. It’s ideal for art, history, and quiet strolls with wide coastal views. |
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Naples
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Naples is the capital of Campania and one of Italy’s most vibrant cities. It’s known for its street life, historic churches, chaotic charm and being the birthplace of pizza.
The historic centre is a UNESCO site, filled with narrow streets, underground tunnels and unique museums. Key sights include the National Archaeological Museum and the Royal Palace. Naples has an international airport and major train links. It’s energetic and authentic, with easy access to islands, Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast. |
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Royal Palace of Caserta
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The Royal Palace of Caserta is one of the grandest in Europe, designed in the 18th century to rival Versailles. Its rooms, staircases and gardens showcase Baroque architecture and royal ambition.
Highlights include the Throne Room, the long Grand Staircase and the park with fountains and cascades. The English Garden is another major feature. The palace is in Caserta, just north of Naples. Trains run frequently from Naples Central station, and tickets can be bought on arrival or online. |
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Paestum
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Paestum is an ancient Greek city south of Salerno, known for its three exceptionally well-preserved Doric temples. The site also includes a museum and city walls.
It’s less crowded than Pompeii but just as impressive for those interested in classical history. The nearby beaches and countryside make it worth staying overnight. Trains run from Salerno, and driving is straightforward. Paestum combines archaeology with a quieter coastal setting and wide-open spaces. |
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