Campania, Italy Travel Guide

Discover the rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture of Campania, Italy's enchanting southern gem, from Naples to the Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri.

Campania, located in the southern part of Italy, is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and natural wonders. This region is home to the iconic city of Naples, known for its vibrant street life, rich history, and, of course, its mouth-watering pizza. The historical center of Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, brimming with ancient churches, museums, and bustling markets that tell the tale of its storied past. No visit to Campania is complete without exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, cities frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Walking through these well-preserved archaeological sites offers a unique glimpse into Roman life, with stunning frescoes, mosaics, and artifacts that have stood the test of time. The Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs and sparkling blue waters, is another highlight of Campania. This picturesque coastline is dotted with charming towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, each offering breathtaking views, luxurious villas, and delightful local cuisine. Whether you're hiking the scenic trails, lounging on a sun-soaked beach, or savoring a glass of limoncello, the Amalfi Coast promises an unforgettable experience. Capri, an island off the coast of Campania, is famed for its rugged landscape, upscale hotels, and designer boutiques. The Blue Grotto, a sea cave illuminated by an ethereal blue light, is a must-see attraction for visitors to Capri. The island's combination of natural beauty and sophisticated charm makes it a favorite among tourists from around the world.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Campania.

Try the authentic Neapolitan pizza at one of Naples' historic pizzerias.
Visit Pompeii and Herculaneum early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the midday heat.
Take a boat tour around the Amalfi Coast for stunning views and a unique perspective of the coastline.
Wear comfortable shoes when exploring the ancient ruins and the hilly towns of the Amalfi Coast.
Sample limoncello, a traditional lemon liqueur, which is a specialty of the region.
Book tickets in advance for the Blue Grotto to ensure a smooth visit.

Top City Travel Guides in Campania

The cities of Campania, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Herculaneum

Naples

Pompeii

Amalfi

Sorrento

Destinations in Campania

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Amalfi Coast

Abruzzo National Park

Sorrento

Puglia

Explore Campania: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Campania

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Amalfi Coast

Experience the breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and delicious cuisine of the Amalfi Coast, a must-visit destination in Italy.

4.7

Royal Palace of Caserta

Explore the Royal Palace of Caserta, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site known for its grandeur, beautiful gardens, and rich royal history.

4.6

Sansevero Chapel Museum

Explore the rich history and stunning artistry of the Sansevero Chapel Museum in Naples, home to the iconic Veiled Christ and other Baroque masterpieces.

4.7

Ovo Castle

Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at Ovo Castle, an iconic landmark that embodies the spirit of Naples.

4.6

Best landmarks in Campania

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Amalfi Coast

Experience the stunning Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site with breathtaking views, charming villages, and rich Italian culture.

4.7

Archaeological Park of Pompeii

Discover the haunting beauty and rich history of the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that transports you to ancient Roman life.

4.7

Royal Palace of Caserta

Discover the Royal Palace of Caserta, a stunning Baroque masterpiece with opulent interiors and sprawling gardens, a must-visit for every traveler in Italy.

4.6

Shopping Complex Campania

Discover Shopping Complex Campania in Marcianise, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.4

Best restaurants in Campania

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Cantina Antica

Discover Cantina Antica: A Seafood Haven Blending Authentic Italian and Neapolitan Flavors in Giugliano.

4.4

Abraxas Osteria

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Abraxas Osteria in Pozzuoli – where exquisite cuisine meets exceptional wines.

4.5

Januarius

Experience authentic Neapolitan cuisine at Januarius in Naples – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.6

Campania in bocca

Discover Campania in Bocca – where authentic Italian pizza meets warm hospitality in Mercato San Severino.

4.3

Best bars in Campania

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Fauno Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Sorrento at Fauno Bar, where Italian cuisine meets local charm.

4.4

Roof Garden Lounge Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of the Roof Garden Lounge Bar in Ercolano, where live music meets exquisite espresso and breathtaking views.

4.1

Cammarota Spritz

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Naples at Cammarota Spritz, where every sip of our signature cocktails tells the story of local culture and flavor.

4.5

Shanti Art Musik Bar

Experience the vibrant fusion of art, music, and drinks at Shanti Art Musik Bar in Naples, where unforgettable nights await.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Campania

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Bar del Sole

Experience the charm of Bar del Sole in Praiano, where delicious cocktails and stunning sea views create unforgettable memories.

4.5

Music On the Rocks

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Positano at Music On the Rocks, a stunning disco club with breathtaking views and an electric atmosphere.

3.5

Acquachiara Spiaggia

Experience the lively charm of Acquachiara Spiaggia on the Amalfi Coast, where relaxation meets vibrant nightlife in a stunning coastal setting.

4.4

Filou Club

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Sorrento at Filou Club, where live music and vibrant crowds create an unforgettable experience.

3.9

Best shops in Campania

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Shopping Complex Campania

Explore Shopping Complex Campania - your ultimate shopping destination in Marcianise, featuring over 300 stores, dining options, and entertainment for all ages.

4.4

Designer Outlet La Reggia

Explore Designer Outlet La Reggia for exclusive designer deals and a delightful shopping experience in the heart of Italy.

4.4

Parco Commerciale Grande Sud

Discover a shopper's paradise at Parco Commerciale Grande Sud, where diverse retail and dining options meet vibrant entertainment in Giugliano in Campania.

4.1

Centro Commerciale La Cartiera

Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Centro Commerciale La Cartiera, featuring diverse stores and delicious dining options in Pompei.

4.2

Explore Campania on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Campania, mapped for you.

Campania Essentials

Campania is accessible via Naples International Airport (NAP), which is the primary gateway to the region. Major airlines operate direct flights to Naples from various international destinations. Alternatively, you can fly into Rome's Fiumicino Airport (FCO) and take a high-speed train to Naples, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. The region is well-connected by Italy's extensive train network, making it easy to reach from other major cities such as Rome, Florence, and Milan.
Campania offers a variety of transportation options to help you explore the region. Trenitalia and Italo operate frequent train services connecting major towns and cities. For local travel, the Circumvesuviana train line connects Naples with Sorrento and other points on the Amalfi Coast. Buses are available for reaching smaller towns and rural areas. Renting a car is an option for more flexibility, but be prepared for narrow and winding roads, especially along the Amalfi Coast. Taxis and ridesharing services like Uber are also available in urban areas.
The official currency in Italy is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, street vendors, and rural areas. ATMs are readily available in cities and towns, but be aware of potential transaction fees. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
Campania is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Be cautious in crowded areas, especially in Naples, where pickpocketing can occur. Avoid the neighborhoods of Scampia and Secondigliano in Naples, as they have higher crime rates. Always secure your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items. Use reputable transportation services and be cautious when using ATMs at night.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. English-speaking operators are usually available. Major hospitals in the region include Ospedale Cardarelli in Naples and Ospedale San Leonardo in Salerno. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widespread, and many are open 24/7 in urban areas.
Fashion: Do dress stylishly but comfortably. Avoid overly casual attire when dining out or visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses to avoid fines. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly 'Ciao'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Avoid requesting modifications to traditional recipes, as it can be seen as disrespectful.
To experience Campania like a local, start your day with an espresso at a local café and engage in conversation with the barista. Visit local markets such as Mercato di Porta Nolana in Naples for fresh produce and regional specialties. Take part in a cooking class to learn how to make authentic Neapolitan pizza. Explore lesser-known towns like Benevento and Caserta for a more authentic experience. For a unique adventure, hike the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) on the Amalfi Coast for breathtaking views.

When is the best time to visit Campania?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Campania

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Campania. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCiao
  [chow]
- GoodbyeAddio
  [ah-dee-oh]
- YesSì
  [see]
- NoNo
  [no]
- Please/You're welcomePer favore
  [per fah-voh-reh]
- Thank youGrazie
  [grah-tsee-eh]
- Excuse me/SorryScusami
  [skoo-zah-mee]
- How are you?Come stai?
  [koh-meh stigh]
- Fine. And you?Bene. E tu?
  [beh-neh. eh too]
- Do you speak English?Parli inglese?
  [par-lee een-gleh-zeh]
- I don't understandNon capisco
  [non kah-pees-koh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVorrei vedere il menù, per favore
  [vor-ray veh-deh-reh eel meh-noo, per fah-voh-reh]
- I don't eat meatNon mangio carne
  [non mahn-joh kar-neh]
- Cheers!Salute!
  [sah-loo-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseVorrei pagare, per favore
  [vor-ray pah-gah-reh, per fah-voh-reh]
- Help!Aiuto!
  [ah-yoo-toh]
- Go away!Vai via!
  [vie vee-ah]
- Call the Police!Chiama la polizia!
  [kee-ah-mah lah poh-leet-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!Chiama un dottore!
  [kee-ah-mah oon doht-toh-reh]
- I'm lostSono perso
  [soh-noh pehr-soh]
- I'm illSono malato
  [soh-noh mah-lah-toh]
- I'd like to buy...Vorrei comprare...
  [vor-ray kom-prah-reh]
- I'm just lookingSto solo guardando
  [stoh soh-loh gwahr-dahn-doh]
- How much is it?Quanto costa?
  [kwan-toh koh-stah]
- That's too expensiveÈ troppo costoso
  [eh troh-poh koh-stoh-soh]
- Can you lower the price?Puoi abbassare il prezzo?
  [pwoy ah-bah-sah-reh eel pret-soh]
- What time is it?Che ore sono?
  [keh oh-reh soh-noh]
- It's one o'clockÈ l'una
  [eh loo-nah]
- Half past (10)Dieci e mezza
  [dee-eh-chee eh meh-zah]
- MorningMattina
  [maht-tee-nah]
- AfternoonPomeriggio
  [poh-meh-ree-joh]
- EveningSera
  [seh-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
- TodayOggi
  [oh-jee]
- TomorrowDomani
  [doh-mah-nee]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Due
  [doo-eh]
- 3Tre
  [treh]
- 4Quattro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinque
  [cheen-kweh]
- 6Sei
  [say]
- 7Sette
  [seht-teh]
- 8Otto
  [oht-toh]
- 9Nove
  [noh-veh]
- 10Dieci
  [dee-eh-chee]
- Where's a/the...?Dove si trova...?
  [doh-veh see troh-vah]
- What's the address?Qual è l'indirizzo?
  [kwahl eh leen-dee-reet-soh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puoi mostrarmi (sulla mappa)?
  [pwoy mohs-trar-mee (soo-lah mahp-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quando passa il prossimo (autobus)?
  [kwan-doh pahs-sah eel proh-ssee-mo (au-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un biglietto (per ....)
  [oon bee-lyet-toh (per ....)]

History of Campania

Campania's history stretches back to ancient times, with evidence of human habitation dating to the Neolithic period. The region was initially settled by Oscan-speaking Italic tribes before the Etruscans and Greeks began to influence the area in the first millennium BCE. The Greeks established colonies such as Cumae and Neapolis (modern-day Naples), which became significant cultural and commercial centers.
Under Roman rule, Campania flourished and became one of the empire's most prosperous regions. The area was favored for its fertile land, scenic beauty, and strategic location. Roman Campania is perhaps best known for the tragic yet fascinating history of Pompeii and Herculaneum, which were buried under volcanic ash during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE. These sites provide a remarkable glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Campania experienced a period of turmoil and fragmentation. The region was invaded by various groups, including the Goths, Byzantines, Lombards, and Saracens. In the 11th century, the Normans conquered Campania, bringing stability and fostering economic and cultural growth. The Normans established the Kingdom of Sicily, with Salerno and Naples becoming important centers of learning and governance.
In the 13th century, the Kingdom of Naples came under the control of the French Angevin dynasty, which left a lasting architectural and cultural legacy in Campania. Notable figures such as Charles I of Anjou played a significant role in shaping the region's history. The 15th century saw the Aragonese take over, further enriching Campania's cultural heritage. Naples became a major European capital, attracting artists, scholars, and merchants.
From the 16th to the 18th centuries, Campania was under Spanish rule, and later, the Bourbon dynasty. This period witnessed both prosperity and hardship, with the construction of grand palaces and the flourishing of Baroque art, alongside economic challenges and social unrest. The Bourbon rule saw the construction of the Royal Palace of Caserta, one of the most magnificent palaces in Europe, symbolizing the opulence of the era.
The 19th century was a time of significant change for Campania, as it became a central battleground in the Italian unification movement (Risorgimento). The region played a crucial role in the campaigns led by figures such as Giuseppe Garibaldi. In 1861, Campania became part of the newly unified Kingdom of Italy. This period marked the beginning of modernization and economic development, although it also brought new challenges.
In the 20th century, Campania faced the trials of two World Wars, the rise and fall of Fascism, and significant social and economic changes. Post-war reconstruction and industrialization transformed the region, especially its capital, Naples. Today, Campania is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes, from the Amalfi Coast to the archaeological treasures of Pompeii and Paestum. The region continues to be a major cultural and tourist destination in Italy.