The perfect road trip through southern Italy: Unforgettable moments in the Mediterranean paradise
This road trip through southern Italy takes you through picture-perfect landscapes. From the lively atmosphere of Naples to the crystal clear waters of Baia dei Turchi, this region offers a perfect mix of historic cities, breathtaking coastlines and culinary highlights. Join us on a journey that will delight every lover of southern Italian flair.
Route: Napels - Amalfi Coast - Matera - Bari - Alberobello - Baia dei Turchi
Naples to Amalfi:
- Route Length: approx. 60 kilometer
- Travel Time: approx. 1 hour 20 minutes
Amalfi to Matera:
- Route Length: approx. 215 kilometer
- Travel Time: approx. 3 hours
Matera to Bari:
- Route Length: approx. 65 kilometer
- Travel Time: approx. 1 hour
Bari to Alberobello:
- Route Length: approx. 55 kilometer
- Travel Time: approx. 45 minutes
Alberobello to Baia dei Turchi:
- Route Length: approx. 180 kilometer
- Travel Time: approx. 2 hours 30 minutes
Another tip before we start:
Wild camping, i.e. camping or spending the night with a camper outside designated campsites, is not officially permitted in southern Italy and can be punished with fines. However, there is the possibility of camping on private land with the owner's prior consent.
Luckily, southern Italy is rich in beautiful campsites, ranging from simple pitches to luxurious camping resorts, offering something for every camper. In this blog post we present some of the most beautiful campsites in southern Italy that will make your road trip a safe, comfortable and unforgettable experience.
Stop 1 (Starting point): naples
Naples, as the starting point of our road trip, offers a true kaleidoscope of culture, history and culinary delights. Famous for its picturesque old town, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vibrant city is home to some of Italy's most impressive works of art and historical landmarks. From the narrow streets lined with colorful buildings to the majestic sight of Mount Vesuvius towering over the city, Naples offers an atmosphere like no other. From a culinary point of view, Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and no visit is complete without trying a real Pizza Napoletana.
Villaggio Campeggio Santa Fortunata Campogaio: This campsite is located about 50 km south of Naples and invites you to relax in a quiet and natural environment. Particular highlights are the terrace, which offers a view of the bay below, and the private beach, which is accessible via a nature path.
Area di sosta camper "La Terrazza di Hermès" Pompei: This campsite impresses on the one hand with its good location (a few minutes' walk from the Archaeological Park of Pompeii) and on the other hand with its impressive landscape (panoramic view of Mount Vesuvius).
Of course, at the top of our culinary list can only be the famous Neapolitan pizza. The original has a thin base, an airy, soft yet crispy edge and is topped with simple, high-quality ingredients.
- Our restaurant recommendation: Concettina ai Tre Santi
You should also definitely try sfogliatelle. The delicious Neapolitan pastry, which consists of puff pastry and a ricotta filling, is refined with orange blossom aroma and cinnamon.
- Our restaurant recommendation: Antico Forno delle Sfogliatelle Calde Fratelli Attanasio
In Naples, espresso is not only a tradition, but also an expression of an attitude to life. Apparently people here drink more coffee than in any other city in Italy.
- Our restaurant recommendation: Gran Caffe' Ciorfito
Sights:
- Cappella Sansevero: Baroque church with marble sculptures
- Galleria Borbonica: ancient underground passage
- Teatro San Carlo: historic opera house
- Via San Gregorio Armeno: charming, winding streets
- Catacombe di San Gennaro: extensive, early Christian burial sites
Activities:
- One of the best-preserved ruined cities of antiquity is Pompeii, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. We recommend exploring the city on a guided tour with an archaeologist.
- Visit to Vesuvius: A winding road leads towards the summit, with the last part (approx. 2 kilometers) having to be mastered on foot. Once at the top you will be rewarded with a great view of Naples and a view of the crater.
- authentic pizza baking course followed by a meal
- culinary tour of Naples with a local guide
Stop 2: amalfi coast
The Amalfi Coast, a picturesque stretch of coastline in the heart of southern Italy, is like a living painting that unfolds between the deep blue sea and sheer cliffs. Known for its spectacular beauty and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the coast winds along one of Europe's most breathtaking routes, lined with colorful villages, terraced gardens and hidden coves.
Here, where the mountains meet the azure waters of the Mediterranean, a world full of charm and elegance is revealed. From Positano to Ravello, the Amalfi Coast offers an unparalleled mix of cultural richness, culinary delights and picturesque landscapes that attract visitors from all over the world.
Campeggio Beata Solitudo: This campsite impresses with its great location.
Cannaverde - Amalfi Coast Camp: Here you will experience a very special camping experience, namely in a tent with breathtaking views.
La Sponda im Le Sirenuse Hotel not only offers excellent cuisine, which has already been awarded Michelin stars, but also a breathtaking view of Positano.
Agricola Fore Porta is the right choice for all nature lovers who want to enjoy a meal prepared with love away from the hustle and bustle.
Sights:
- Amalfi Cathedral: medieval Roman Catholic cathedral
- Museo della Carta: Museum about the unique history of paper production in Amalfi
- Torre dello Ziro: historic watchtower overlooking the Amalfi Coast
Activities:
- Walk through the historic old town of Amalfi: charming atmosphere and many cozy cafés and restaurants
- Positano: colorful old town and fantastic beaches
- Path of the Gods: The almost nine kilometer long nature trail is perfect for hiking.
- To explore the Amalfi Coast from its most beautiful side, you should definitely experience the impressive coast on a boat trip.
Stop 3: MATERA
One of southern Italy's most fascinating cities, Matera is famous for its ancient cave dwellings, the Sassi, dramatically dug into the limestone cliffs. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city offers a unique blend of history, culture and stunning architecture spanning thousands of years. Matera's magical atmosphere and breathtaking landscape make it an unforgettable destination for every visitor.
Camping Matera: Just a few minutes from the city center, this campsite offers a practical base from which to explore Matera and its surroundings.
Pane di Matera: A rustic sourdough bread known for its unique flavor and crust.
Peperoni Cruschi: Crispy fried peppers, a typical snack or side dish in local cuisine.
The Restaurant Trattoria del Caveoso is known for its authentic local dishes and offers a warm atmosphere.
Sights:
- Sassi di Matera: famous cave dwellings
- Parco della Murgia Materana: Nature reserve with breathtaking views of the city
- Museo Nazionale d’Arte Medievale e Moderna della Basilicata: Museum with a collection of medieval and modern art
- Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario: restored cave house offering a glimpse into traditional life in the Sassi
Stop 4: BARI
Bari, the capital of Puglia, is a lively coastal town that delights with its rich history, vibrant culture and exquisite cuisine. As the gateway to the Adriatic Sea, Bari offers a perfect mix of urban flair and traditional Italian charm. From the impressive Basilica of San Nicola to the narrow streets of the old town that are perfect for strolling, Bari is an essential stop on any trip to southern Italy.
Camping La Pineta: Just a few kilometers from Bari, this campsite offers a peaceful oasis with excellent facilities and direct access to the beach.
Focaccia Barese: This local specialty is a delicious variation of focaccia topped with tomatoes, olives and oregano.
Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa: classic Apulian pasta with stem cabbage
Panzerotti: The fried dumplings filled with tomatoes and mozzarella are the perfect snack in between.
Sights:
- Basilika San Nicola: An architectural masterpiece that not only attracts pilgrims from all over the world, but also delights those interested in culture.
- Castello Svevo: This imposing fortress offers a deep insight into the history of Bari and Puglia.
Activities:
- Spaziergang durch die Altstadt (Bari Vecchia): Discover the historic streets, lively squares and authentic atmosphere of this fascinating city.
- Strand von Pane e Pomodoro: A popular city beach perfect for relaxing and sunbathing.
Stop 5: Alberobello
Alberobello, a picturesque village in the Puglia region, is known worldwide for its unique trulli - characteristic, cone-shaped stone houses that dominate the cityscape and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This charming village attracts visitors from all over the world with its winding streets, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.
Camping Bosco Selva: Just a few minutes from the center of Alberobello, this campsite offers a quiet and shady environment, ideal for families and nature lovers.
Capocollo di Martina Franca: A spicy, air-dried salami made in the Alberobello area.
Mandorla di Toritto: Local almonds used in various sweets or simply as a snack.
Sights:
- Die Trulli von Alberobello: historic stone houses with fascinating architecture.
- Trullo Sovrano: The largest trullo in the village, which is now a museum and gives an insight into the way of life of past centuries.
- Belvedere Santa Lucia: A viewpoint that offers breathtaking views over the roofs of the trulli and the surrounding countryside.
Activities:
- Local Crafts: Visit the small shops and workshops offering traditional crafts such as ceramics, weaving and olive oil production.
Stop 6: Baia dei Turchi
The Baia dei Turchi, located on the enchanting Adriatic coast of Puglia, is a true jewel characterised by crystal clear waters and fine sandy beaches. This secluded beach, surrounded by dense pine forests, offers a virtually untouched natural setting that attracts visitors in search of peace and relaxation. Named after the Ottoman Turks who landed here in the 16th century, the Baia dei Turchi is not only a place of natural beauty but also of historical importance.
Camping La Pineta: Just a few kilometers from Bari, this campsite offers a quiet oasis with excellent facilities and direct access to the beach.
Fresh fish and seafood: Enjoy the fresh delicacies of the sea in local restaurants and trattorias.
Pasticciotto Leccese: A sweet pastry filled with cream, perfect as a snack or for breakfast.
The Masseria Bandino restaurant offers traditional Apulian cuisine in a charming, rustic setting.
The Ristorante dell'Agriturismo Terra Rossa prepares excellent traditional dishes.
ACTIVITIES:
- Relax at the Baia dei Turchi: Spend a day at the beach, enjoy the turquoise water and the soft sand.
- Snorkeling and diving: The clear waters around Baia dei Turchi are ideal for snorkeling and diving fans and offer the opportunity to discover Puglia's rich underwater world.
- Visiting Otranto: The nearby town of Otranto, with its impressive fortress, lively harbor and beautiful old town, is definitely worth a visit.
Our virtual road trip through southern Italy is now coming to an end. But the magical region is waiting to be explored by you personally. From the historic trails of Matera to the crystal clear waters of Baia dei Turchi, from the trulli of Alberobello to the vibrant culture of Bari, each stop offers unique experiences.
Have you caught the travel bug? Then book your PIA camper now and start your next adventure!
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