I just got back from an incredible adventure along Italy’s breathtaking Amalfi Coast, where every view feels like a postcard come to life. The Tyrrhenian Sea and Gulf of Salerno shimmered with the warmest, most inviting waters, sparkling under Italy’s intense sun. Sorrento, perched on its cliffs, buzzed with a lively yet laid-back vibe, its streets alive with charm and cool energy. The villages of Amalfi tumbled down the coastal cliffs like a cascade of pink floyd dreams, each one brimming with timeless beauty. I couldn’t get enough of their winding paths and breathtaking vistas. A visit to the ancient ruins of Pompeii whispered haunting tales of a city frozen in time. And then there was the island of Capri, where the emerald and sapphire grottos worked pure magic, casting a spell from beneath made every moment feel like I was living in a dream.
This soulful expedition required 6 flights ( 3 per leg SJC – > PHX -> PHL – > NAP: NAP -> LHR – > SAN – SJC,) 5 Train Rides, 3 Buses, 6 Ferries, 1 Gandola, and miles of treking through the Italian coast
Naples
From the moment I boarded my flight from San Jose (SJC), the thrill of exploring Italy’s radiant Amalfi Coast excited my soul knowing a new experience to grow awaited. Touching down in Naples, I kicked off my journey with a practical tip: grab a free travel map at the airport’s tourist booth—a lifesaver when internet signals falter in this captivating region. Stepping outside Naples Airport, I hopped on a local bus (pro tip: skip pre-booked tickets; most accept cash or debit onboard) to the bustling train station, a gateway to Italy’s wonders. Naples itself was a treasure trove, from the enigmatic Shroud of Christ and the formidable Castel Nuovo to the ethereal Sansevero Chapel, where the veiled Christ sculpture left me spellbound. The city pulsed with charm—its streets, though occasionally littered, were far from dirty, with no unpleasant odors and a safe, welcoming vibe amid stunning architecture. From Naples, a scenic 40-minute train ride with a few stops whisked me southeast to Pompeii’s ancient ruins, where history whispered through timeworn stones. The Amalfi Coast later awaited, its pastel villages cascading down cliffs and sparkling waters promising unforgettable adventures.
Pompeii
Stepping into the ruins of Pompeii was nothing short of awe-inspiring, eerie, and exhausting. Arriving with no expectations, I was immediately struck by the intense heat (pro tip: bring an umbrella!) and the sheer scale of this ancient Roman city. Its timeworn streets, homes, and public squares lay frozen in time beneath the ominous shadow of Mount Vesuvius. The Forum, once the heart of Pompeii’s civic and religious life, stood as a grand testament to its past, with crumbling columns and open plazas whispering tales of bustling markets and solemn ceremonies.I was disappointed to find the ancient Amphitheater, one of the oldest of its kind, closed for restoration—I’d been eager to stand in an arena steeped in history and imagine its intense atmosphere. Thankfully, the Women’s Museum offered a captivating glimpse into the lives of Pompeii’s women. Intricate jewelry and delicate frescoes told poignant stories of their daily routines, including crafting love potions and hexes! As I left this somber site, a distant sparkle of the Amalfi Coast’s gave me new life where waters beckoned, promising vibrant charm to complement Pompeii’s haunting stillness.
Sorrento
Sorrento delivered an unforgettable adventure, soulful cuisine, and vibrant charm. My journey began with an invigorating hike to Punta del Capo, where, mindful of my surgically repaired back, I took a thrilling leap of faith from the rugged cliffs into the shimmering Tyrrhenian Sea—a plunge that fused adrenaline with the raw beauty of the coast. That evening, I dove into Sorrento’s culinary scene, starting with a Michelin-starred masterpiece at Lorelei. The seafood risotto and crisp local Falanghina wine danced on my palate like a work of art. The next night, I savored a cozy dinner at Chancellor’s Trattoria, where pillowy gnocchi alla sorrentina melted in my mouth. I capped off my time in Sorrento with a pizza from DeFranco’s, the town’s finest, bursting with bold, authentic flavors. These meals showcased Sorrento’s gift for blending elegance with rustic tradition.By day, I sipped bold espresso in the lively Piazza Sant’Antonino, surrounded by the scent of lemon trees and the hum of local life. By night, the square transformed, and I savored a glass of rich red wine amid music and laughter, fully immersed in the town’s infectious energy. From cliff diving to indulgent feasts and relaxed moments in the piazza, Sorrento delivered a perfect harmony of excitement and serenity.For your own adventure, stay central for easy access and book Lorelei in advance to secure a table. Sorrento isn’t just a destination—it’s a journey that nurtures the soul, leaving you forever changed.
Capri
I took the ferry from Sorrento to Capri for a couple of days, and it was an unforgettable adventure. Upon arriving at the port, skip the crowded taxi line and head straight to the bus stop just up from the dock. I chose to stay in Anacapri, located slightly to the west, and it was absolutely worth it. Anacapri is a charming, vibrant hub with a more relaxed vibe than the bustling main town of Capri. A word of advice: avoid walking up the winding road to Anacapri. It’s packed with e-bikes, buses, and taxis zipping by. Instead, take the bus for a safer and quicker ride. Once in Anacapri’s lively city center, you’ll be greeted by bustling bars, restaurants, and breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views that make every moment Instagram-worthy.I kicked off my trip with a boat tour around the island—a must-do! Pro tip: skip the overhyped Blue Grotto. Capri is home to 75 stunning emerald, blue, and green grottos that are far less crowded and just as mesmerizing. After the boat ride, I returned to the harbor and hopped on the Capri funicular (a cable railway, not a gondola) to the upper station. From there, I walked to the southern part of the island toward Marina Piccola, where I joined a local kayak tour to explore the emerald grottos on the south side. These caves were a highlight. The limestone walls make the water extra salty and buoyant, perfect for swimming and kayaking. The glowing emerald-green water felt like a portal to a magical underwater world. After the kayak adventure, I wrapped up the day with a trek to the eastern side of the island to visit the stunning Gardens of Augustus and the dramatic cliffs of Tiberius. The views were nothing short of spectacular, a perfect end to an incredible stay.
Amalfi
The Amalfi Coast was a highlight of my travels, and Amalfi itself quickly became one of my favorite destinations. I booked a boat tour to explore the enchanting towns of Positano and Amalfi, and let me tell you, traveling by sea is the way to go. Pro tip: cheaper tours often have meeting points farther away, so always check the pickup location. In my case, a free shuttle made the journey seamless—definitely worth confirming when booking!The boat ride along the Amalfi Coast was nothing short of magical. Turquoise waters sparkled under the sun, framed by colorful cliffside villages and ancient castles carved into the rugged cliffs above the sea. With only one winding road into Amalfi, sailing is not only practical but also lets you soak in jaw-dropping views. Our first stop was Positano, a sleepy yet vibrant village cascading down the hillside. I wandered through its narrow, flower-lined streets, popping into charming boutiques and cozy cafes. The laid-back vibe was perfect for nursing a “no regrets” hangover with an espresso and soaking in the coastal charm. Positano’s relaxed energy and stunning scenery made every moment feel like a postcard. Next, we sailed to Amalfi, a historic gem anchored by the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Andrew, its golden facade gleaming in the sunlight. I had five glorious hours to explore, starting with a browse through local shops. I picked up unique handmade jewelry for my daughters from talented artisans and grabbed a bottle of Amalfi’s famous limoncello as a keepsake. Then, I headed to the pebbled beaches, diving into crystal-clear waters that were refreshingly cool and impossibly inviting.After my swim, I strolled through Amalfi’s bustling piazzas, where the energy was infectious. I sipped zesty cocktails at a seaside bar, the salty breeze mingling with the tang of lemon. Lunch was a highlight: I savored the region’s famous seafood pasta at a quaint trattoria, each bite bursting with fresh flavors. The day was a perfect blend of exploration, relaxation, and indulgence, wrapped in the Amalfi Coast’s unmistakable magic. Amalfi’s vibrant sights, warm hospitality, and breathtaking beauty left me smitten—and I’m already dreaming of my next visit.
