Planning an Italy highway journey? Listed below are itinerary concepts for Northern and Southern Italy, plus maps, route planner, finest locations to go to and extra!
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Italy Street Journey
Italy has an fascinating popularity on the subject of highway journeys. It’s notorious for loopy drivers doing reckless issues on tiny roads… and people tales aren’t totally inaccurate.
Driving in Italy CAN be difficult. There are certainly loopy drivers who refuse to present method. There are some troublesome routes and roads might be poorly maintained, particularly within the south of Italy.
BUT, earlier than you hand over the thought of an Italian highway journey fully, it’s considered one of our favorite international locations in Europe to drive round. The climate is commonly great (MUCH higher than the UK), the individuals are welcoming (except they’re driving and refusing to present method!) and the meals includes pasta, pizza and copious quantities of ice cream. Critically, what’s to not love.
It doesn’t matter whether or not you’re travelling Italy by automobile, motorhoming or campervanning in Italy or exploring by bike- there’s a lot right here so that you can begin planning your excellent Italy highway journey. I’ve offered highway journey itineraries, locations to go to and extra that will help you have a tremendous journey.
Final Italy highway journey Planner
Don’t neglect to seize your FREE highway journey planner- this beneficial information will help you make notes on the locations you wish to go to in Italy and preserve all of it organised so you’ll be able to bear in mind all of it.
Planning a driving vacation in Italy
Italian highway journey fundamentals
Some fast ideas for driving in Italy:
- Italy drives on the correct
- Motorways are GREEN, twin carriageways are blue (reverse to the UK and far of Europe)
- The utmost velocity for personal automobiles underneath 3.5t is 130kph (81mph) on motorways however velocity limits are decrease for vehicles towing caravans and for motorhomes over 3.5t in weight.
- When on two-lane motorways, dipped headlights should be used.
- If driving by means of cities and villages, solely use the horn in an emergency.
- Buses and trams have proper of method.
- Seatbelts are obligatory
- In-car velocity digital camera detectors and motorhome sat-nav programs warning of the presence of radars are unlawful (whether or not they’re in use or not!)
- Utilizing a cell phone whereas driving is prohibited, however you need to use a hands-free unit.
- Minor visitors offences can lead to on-the-spot fines.
- UK driving licences are completely acceptable to make use of and also you in all probability received’t want an IDP (discover out the modifications made to driving in Europe after BREXIT)
- You will want a inexperienced card to show you’ve insurance coverage cowl when travelling in Italy.
Pace limits in Italy
Pace Limits are as follows for vehicles and automobiles underneath 3.5t (except in any other case signed!)
- 130 km/h (80 mph) on motorways
- 110km/hr (30mph) on main roads
- 90 km/h (50 mph) on minor roads (out of city)
- 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas
In rain or snow circumstances, the restrict is lowered to 110 ok/h on motorways and 90 ok/h on trunk roads- this WILL NOT be signposted- you’re anticipated to understand it
Gasoline Stations in Italy
Gasoline costs are similar to France. and barely cheaper than the UK. Purchase gas wherever aside from on the principle roads- it’ll be cheaper.
There’s a ‘two-tier’ fee system in Italy. A less expensive choice when you fill your self (self-service), and a costlier fee when you get a forecourt attendant to do it for you. There’s typically an emblem of a person with a pump, however ‘con servicio’ or servizio for service and ‘self’ for self-service.
Many stations shut in a single day and on Sundays. Chiuso means closed in Italian and Aperto means open.
Petrol (Unleaded) is Benzina senza piombo/ “Benzina verde”. It’s additionally referred to as Normale (95) or Speciale (98) and will probably be inexperienced handles on the pump.
Diesel is Gasolio / Diesel and will probably be black or yellow on the pump.
Planning to take your motorhome to Europe?
Low Emission Zones and ZTL’s in Italy
Many main cities and cities are attempting to cut back air pollution ranges by limiting automobiles into the centre. It is a ‘Zone Traffico Limitato’ or ZTL. Most ZTLs are for residents solely, so when you drive right into a ZTL you’ll obtain a advantageous by means of the publish. Additionally, NO rented automobiles are allowed in a ZTL at any time.
Low Emission Zones have gotten extra frequent all through Europe. Should you do resolve to drive right into a metropolis with no ZTL, examine if there’s an LEZ or congestion cost to pay. Alternatively, park outdoors the town and use public transport to entry the centre.
Hiring a automobile to your Italy Street Journey
Should you don’t wish to drive or are planning to fly in, you’ll be able to rent a automobile or campervan to your Italy highway journey. Should you’re flying into Italy, you’ll want to choose an airport close to the realm you wish to discover. Then you definitely’ll have to discover a rent firm with a base close to there and plan the right way to get from the airport to the campervan.
Should you’re driving after which hiring, be sure that the rent firm has someplace safe to park your automobile while you’re off touring round Italy.
Driving in Italy- what to do within the occasion of a highway visitors accident
You must have a European Declare Type offered by your insurer earlier than you permit. Within the occasion of an accident, all events full and signal the shape on the scene after which ship a replica to your insurer for evaluation.
What to do on the scene:
- Cease your automobile instantly however safely- out of the move of visitors if potential.
- If a automobile is obstructing the highway, use hazard lights and put the purple warning triangle 30 metres from the scene to warn approaching visitors
- Change your particulars with the opposite concerned events. You should definitely get:
- Title and tackle of all of the folks concerned within the accident
- Car registration numbers of all events
- Insurance coverage firm particulars of all events
- Take images of harm utilizing a digital camera, GoPro or cellphone
For extra particulars, learn our step-by-step information on coping with a highway visitors accident in Europe
Finest time of yr to do an Italian Street Journey
As with all European highway journeys, WHEN is nearly as vital as WHERE.
I’ve loved a number of highway journeys in Italy, each in a automobile and in our motorhome. I’ve visited in each season- and if you go positively does make a distinction.
Italy Street Journeys in Spring
Spring is a superb time to highway journey in Italy. The later you permit it, the higher the climate will probably be. Attempt to keep away from Easter when you can- many locations are closed for non secular causes, nevertheless it additionally will get busy as faculties are on vacation.
Italian roadtrips in Summer season
Summer season is crowded just about all over the place in Italy. Though the climate is usually nice, having to queue for main sights within the warmth could make you wilt. Additionally, many motels and campsites e-book up months prematurely.
Roadtripping Italy in Autumn
That is our favorite time to highway journey round Italy. I toured the Dolomites in early October and the climate was excellent. See all our favorite locations in Europe in Autumn
Italy highway journeys in Winter
Don’t dismiss Italy in Winter– there’s nonetheless a lot to do. Northern Italy does get chilly and there’s snow in winter, so that you’ll wish to be sure to have correct heating in your camper or motorhome.
Clearly, the additional south you go the hotter it will likely be. Sicily is the place the Italians go to flee the chilly temperatures within the north, so that may be busy. In fact, if you wish to go snowboarding along with your motorhome, keep within the Dolomites and luxuriate in a number of the finest slopes in Europe.
Snow continues in Northern Italy throughout till March. I did a tour from Rome to Florence (by way of Pisa) in February and there was nonetheless snow on the bottom, it was freezing chilly, however the lack of individuals was wonderful- I virtually had a number of the museums and standard websites to ourselves! If that’s too chilly for you, listed here are the warmest locations in Europe in February.
Italy Street Journey Route concepts
When you’ve got the time, there are numerous locations and routes you would absorb Italy. To assist, we’ve separated the nation into areas and sections for you, in addition to giving one of the best locations to go to in every space.
Street journey to Italy from UK- route planner
Should you’re driving to Italy from the UK, it is advisable to enable a minimum of someday to succeed in the Italian border. There are a number of routes you’ll be able to take.
Should you’re planning a highway journey by means of France to Italy, I’ve put collectively a number of the finest driving routes for motorhomes, campers, caravans and vehicles (full with estimated toll expenses)
Tolls in Italy
Italy doesn’t have a vignette- it has tolls (pedaggio). You gather a ticket on the machine as you enter the highway system and pay (both an individual or machine) on the finish in money or on a card. Tolls are typically costlier than Spain however cheaper than in France.
You should use a tollpass/ telepass (like e-Movis) or you’ll be able to pay-as-you-go by money or card (I at all times advocate carrying some cash- simply in case!) Indicators point out the technique of fee accepted on every lane.
Italy Street Journey- How lengthy to spend touring Italy
Italy Street Journey One week
It’s potential to do an Italy highway journey when you solely have per week to your vacation. Nevertheless, you will want to plan your journey rigorously to be sure to get essentially the most out of it. For just one week in Italy, I like to recommend staying in Northern Italy (except after all you’re flying in after which renting a automobile)
If potential, going for a minimum of 10 days will help you see far more, and be capable of loosen up and luxuriate in it.
Italy Street journey 10-14 days (two weeks)
Clearly, the longer you’ve, the extra you’ll be able to see. As a information, I’d recommend two weeks for highway tripping round Northern Italy, and 10-14 days for Southern Italy.
Driving from North to South Italy
Should you’re determined to see as a lot of the nation (and eat as most of the totally different regional Italian dishes) as potential, it takes about 12 hours (1160km) to drive from Milan within the North to Catanzaro within the South- in line with Google maps. Personally, I feel that is VERY optimistic and it is best to enable a minimum of 2 days driving.
For the needs of this information, I’m calling Northern Italy something from Rome north, and Southern Italy something south of Rome.
New to motorhome or camper journey in Europe? You may discover these posts useful:
See all our Europe motorhoming posts right here
NEED GEAR? Should you want any equipment or necessities for motorhoming in Europe, right here’s what we advocate and the place to search out it
Northern Italy highway journey
There are some spectacular locations in Northern Italy to discover by highway. In truth, I favor Northern Italy to Southern Italy- however that’s primarily as a result of I really like the mountains. Listed below are some concepts to your highway journey.
Northern Italy Street Journey highlights and finest locations to go to
A few of our favorite locations in Northern Italy embody:
- Gran Paradiso
- Cinque Terre, Portofino and Portovenere
- The Italian Lakes (particularly Lake Garda)
- The Dolomites
- Stelvio Move
- Venice
- Florence
- Rome
Northern Italy Bucket Listing Map
Right here’s a map of a number of the locations talked about on our Northern Italy highway journey itinerary, so you will discover them simply.
You could find out extra about every space beneath.
Italy North West Coast highway journey
Should you’re driving into Italy, particularly when you’re driving from the UK, many individuals discover themselves arriving within the North West- from France or Switzerland. In case you are going motorhoming in Switzerland, bear in mind you could want greater than a vignette.
That is the right introduction to Italy. There are nationwide parks, lovely villages, superb shoreline and dramatic mountains. It will probably embody Gran Paradiso Nationwide Park, Cinque Terre, Portofino and Portovenere, La Spezia and down into Tuscany.
Gran Paradiso Nationwide Park
The Gran Paradiso Nationwide Park was one of many first Nationwide Parks to be created in Italy and is standard for snowboarding, wildlife watching and mountain climbing.
Solely 20% of the park is forest- the remaining is scrubland, mountains or grassland, so if you wish to see wildlife the forests are an excellent place to go to. You may even see the well-known Ibex and Chamois.
The best level is Gran Paradiso mountain, which stands at 4061m however there are many different mountains and valleys to discover. There are numerous mountain climbing trails and walks- and several other guidebooks you should purchase to remain on observe.
How lengthy to remain in Gran Paradiso
You may get a style of the park in a day, however when you’d love to do any hikes or see extra of the highlights, keep within the space for a minimum of 2 or 3 days.
The place to remain in Gran Paradiso?
Should you’re in a campervan, watch out as wild tenting is forbidden in Nationwide Parks, however there are many campsites and Sostas round.
Should you’re touring Italy by automobile or bike, listed here are some great lodging choices for you.
I really like the Bellevue Resort and Spa– pleasant, enjoyable and proper close to the glacier.
Highlights of a highway journey in Gran Paradiso Nationwide Park
Among the finest issues to do in Gran Paradiso embody:
- See Gran Paradiso- the very best mountain
- Drive the Colle de Nivolet- scenic mountain move
- See the views at Serru Lake
- Drive Col Ferret- mountain move
- Cascate di Lillaz- 3-tier waterfall
Cinque Terre and Portovenere
Cinque Terre is without doubt one of the most well-known areas in Italy- and for good motive! It’s a sequence of 5 lovely villages, all carved into the unimaginable coastal cliffs of north-west Italy.
Cinque Terre actually interprets to “5 lands”, that are the 5 villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. It has been designated a nationwide park and a UNESCO World Heritage Web site. Portofino is simply outdoors the Cinque Terre protected zone, however is properly value a go to too.
Driving into Cinque Terre
NOTE: Do NOT try to drive into Cinque Terre, even with a automobile and ESPECIALLY not with a motorhome or campervan. The roads are tiny and never simple for vacationers, plus there’s little to no parking. Some motels within the space do supply parking- when you’re driving to considered one of them attempt to keep away from arriving at peak occasions, so the roads will probably be quieter.
Alternatively, discover someplace protected to park your automobile for a few nights (corresponding to in La Spezia) and go away it there while you take pleasure in a keep at a lodge in the midst of one of many prettiest locations in Italy.
How lengthy to remain in Cinque Terre
I did Cinque Terre in someday and it’s potential, nevertheless it was a LOT of strolling. Staying for two days is better- 3 if you wish to see Portofino as properly.
Highlights of Cinque Terre
Among the finest issues to do within the space embody:
- Benefit from the sandy seaside at Monterosso
- Strolling the path from Monterosso to Vernazza
- Exploring Vernazza Harbour and Fort Doria
- Riomaggiore
- See the sundown at Manarola
Portovenere
Portovenere is additional south alongside the coast. While not technically part of Cinque Terre, Portovenere is a UNESCO World Heritage Web site. The city seems to be like one thing from a fairytale and is properly value a cease in your itinerary.
Should you go to in August, you’ll discover the Madonna Bianca Pageant when a whole bunch, if not 1000’s, of Roman torches are lit at night time. Additionally, every Monday there’s a market within the city centre.
Italian Lakes Street Journey
The Italian Lakes are like a hotter model of the UK Lake District- with extra pizza as an alternative of scones. They’re all fairly, however our favorite lakes are Maggiore and Garda.
How lengthy to go to the Italian Lakes for?
I stayed for per week and solely actually explored Lake Garda and Maggiore correctly. So you’ll be able to simply spend two weeks within the space and nonetheless discover issues to do. In fact, you’ll be able to simply spend a day or two right here and get a style.
Highlights within the Italian lakes
A few of our favorite locations within the lakes embody:
- Sirmione on Lake Garda. This picturesque city dates again to Roman occasions. The fortress is twelfth century and is without doubt one of the most lovely castles in Italy. You’ll be able to e-book a tour across the inside when you wish- the views down the lake are even higher increased up.
- Grotte di Catullo- ruins of a Roman Villa constructed over 2000 years in the past! Get right here as early as you’ll be able to as a result of it’s an enormous vacationer attraction and by mid-morning it will likely be very crowded.
- In case you are highway tripping Italy in a automobile or bike (or wish to lease one for the day), don’t miss the Strada Della Forra Gorge highway on the west aspect of Garda- it’s spectacular. The highway is actually carved right into a gorge and it’s so steep and slender that solely vehicles and motorbikes are allowed up it. The tunnels by means of the gorge are so low that you simply couldn’t drive by means of in something greater than a big car- I feel even a 4×4 is likely to be too massive!
- Should you like heights, there’s a zipwire close to Lake Maggiore which has been on my bucket record for some time!
Milan to Lake Como Street Journey
This Italian Street Journey was pushed by Jamie from Journey Addict
The drive between Milan and Lake Como is just one.5 hours, however don’t rush north with out taking a brief break to Monza. This totally charming Italian village is the midway level between Milan and Lake Como. Many of the historical buildings date all the best way again to the 1400s, however the city is at the moment finest often known as a System 1 racing circuit
You’ll be able to drive across the loop of Lake Como, or take a ferry tour. The most well-liked cities on the lake are Como and Bellagio, for good motive. Among the smaller cities have their very own distinctive appeal – Varenna, Lenno, Tremezzo and Menaggio to call just a few value visiting. And no drive on the lake is full with out a cease at one of many well-known villas, corresponding to Villa del Balbianello or Villa Carlotta.
TOP TIP: The roads are doable with a motorhome, however a few of them are VERY small, so attempt to go early within the morning or properly out of peak season.
Afterwards, head west to Lake Maggiore for extra of Italy’s lake area, or East to the extremely lovely metropolis of Bergamo to increase your journey just a few additional days. Bergamo has a wealthy and lengthy historical past, unimaginable structure that spans a hillside, and a splendidly genuine vibe.
Stelvio Move
Should you’re feeling courageous in your Italian highway journey, head north from the lakes and drive the Stelvio Move.
The Stelvio Move is a excessive mountain move carved into the Italian Alps. It has a sequence of 48 hairpin turns and rises to an elevation of two,756m (9,045ft) above sea degree, making it one of many highest paved roads in Europe.
It’s not for the faint-hearted, however the views are phenomenal.
TOP TIP: Drive Stelvio Move early within the morning- earlier than the crowds arrive and the highway turns into much more loopy!
(And sure, it seems to be rather a lot like Trollstigen Street in Norway!)
Dolomites Street Journey
The Dolomites are probably the most breathtaking mountain areas in Europe. The unimaginable rock formations, mixed with the gorgeous lakes, valleys and unimaginable roads make this among the finest highway journey locations ANYWHERE, not simply in Italy.
The place are the Dolomites?
The Dolomites are in Northern Italy, about an hour north of Lake Garda.
Venice to Bolzano (the beginning of the Nice Dolomites Street) will take you about 2 and a half hours (the gap is 267km)
Milan to Bolzano is about 3 and a half hours (the gap is 278km)
How lengthy to spend within the Dolomites?
I spent 4 days roadtripping across the Dolomites and really feel like I barely scratched the floor. If you wish to simply drive and see the surroundings, 2 or 3 days will provide you with a style. If you wish to hike and benefit from the outdoor, you want a minimum of 5-7 (and nonetheless will wish to return!)
See our full Dolomites highway journey itinerary
Highlights of a Dolomites Street Journey
A few of our favorite locations within the Dolomites embody:
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo (severely, if you’re doing an Italy highway journey in a motorhome or campervan, you HAVE to remain up right here for a minimum of one night time (I stayed for two)
- Driving the Nice Dolomites Street– this was magic and Lake Carezza is on it too.
- Lago di Braies
- Sella Move
- Val di Funes
- Through Ferrata
The place to remain within the Dolomites
Should you’re exploring the Dolomites by motorhome or camper, there are some great campsites and aires with breathtaking views. Don’t miss an opportunity to remain on the prime of Tre Cime di Lavaredo- it’s unimaginable.
Should you’re not in a motorhome or camper, base your self at considered one of these fabulous places (many with views of the Dolomites!)
Venice
Venice is without doubt one of the most lovely cities within the world- there’s a motive it’s probably the most standard honeymoon locations in Europe. Keep away from in excessive summer- it’s simply too crowded to see something.
You’ll be able to’t go highway tripping in Italy (particularly Northern Italy) and NOT make a cease to see Venice. This unimaginable metropolis has canals, historical past, gorgeous views- and it’s totally unsuitable for automobiles.
Should you’re exploring Europe in February, don’t miss the Venice Carnival – it will likely be loopy busy however spectacular!
When is one of the best time to go to Venice?
I extremely advocate visiting out of excessive season. Our favorite time to go to Venice is after summer- in truth, it’s one of many finest locations to see in Europe in October.
However it doesn’t matter what time of yr you go, do NOT try to drive into the town, particularly with a motorhome or camper.
East Coast Italy Street Journey
The east coast of Italy (The Adriatic Coast) has a lot to advocate it. You’ll be able to truly drive from Venice to San Marino in about 3 hours, however the prettier route is utilizing the coast roads and taking your time.
The place to go on the East coast of Italy
Among the finest locations to go to on the Italian Adriatic Coast embody:
- Trieste: up close to the Slovenian border
- Comacchio: Don’t miss the Trepponti fortified bridge
- Po Delta Pure Park: UNESCO World Heritage web site defending round 54,000 hectares and plenty of species of native wildlife
- Cesenatico: Don’t miss the Porto Canale, which runs by means of the historic metropolis centre, or the Maritime Museum which homes a number of classic boats.
- Rimini: might be crowded, however out of season is properly value a go to. Don’t miss Tiberio Bridge- the historic Roman bridge crossing the Marecchia River or the previous fishing district of Borgo San Giuliano which now has vibrant homes and an excellent ambiance.
- San Marino- one of many oldest and smallest international locations on this planet!
San Marino
San Marino is definitely a very totally different nation. It’s completely surrounded by Italy, however is unbiased. San Marino is without doubt one of the oldest and smallest international locations within the world- solely 23sq miles and is generally one metropolis.
It was based on September third, 301. The individuals who stay in San Marino aren’t “Italians” – they’re known as Sammarinese. They’re very happy with their independence from Italy.
NOTE: San Marino is not a part of the European Union though they do use the euro as foreign money.
Spend a minimum of a day having fun with San Marino. There are castles, museums and towers to explore- you received’t get to all of them in a day!
Beneficial by Pamela from the Directionally Challenged Traveler
Tuscany Street Journey Planner
This Tuscan Street Journey itinerary was pushed by Martina and Jürgen from Locations of Juma
There are numerous highlights of a Tuscany highway trip- the landscapes, the historic cities and the beautiful stone villages. Tuscany can be well-known for artwork and scrumptious delicacies. The infro-structure isn’t dangerous in most locations, and it’s not too crowded, besides in excessive summer time.
Among the finest locations to see in Tuscany embody:
- Florence
- Siena- well-known for the Piazza del Campo
- Arezzo- the vintage market is known
- Val d’Orcia- UNESCO world Heritage and fabulous views
- Montalcino- well-known for its for its Brunello di Montalcino wine
How lengthy to spend in Tuscany
Plan a minimum of just a few days to discover Tuscany. Many individuals spend 2 weeks simply on this space alongside!
The place to remain in Tuscany
There are numerous beautiful agritourism lodging all over, so you’ll be able to keep at vineyards, farms or native producers for the night time if you wish to style their produce. There are additionally loads of motels and BnBs within the region- listed here are some great concepts for you.
Florence
Should you’re on the lookout for a ravishing metropolis in Italy, it is advisable to head to Florence. This picturesque metropolis is known for the tradition, renaissance artwork, structure and monuments. It’s filled with artwork galleries and museums together with the well-known Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Pitti.
The centre is a UNESCO World Heritage web site. There are many church buildings, cathedrals- together with the world-famous Duomo and idyllic streets to discover, in addition to loads of upmarket retailers and distinctive boutiques to find.
In addition to the galleries talked about above, you must also go to the Galleria dell’Accademia, which comprises the unimaginable marble sculptures by Michelangelo and others, notably David and Prisoners, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines and Botticelli’s Madonna and Little one and Madonna of the Sea.
One other must-see is the Ponte Vecchio, probably the most historic bridges in Florence. In addition to being picturesque, retailers line all sides of the bridge, together with jewellers, artisans and memento retailers.
Rome
Rome is the capital of Italy and essentially the most visited vacationer destination- and for good motive. I’ve been to Rome many occasions and by no means get uninterested in the historical past, the traditional websites, the structure or the unimaginable views.
When is one of the best time to go to Rome?
I extremely advocate visiting out of season. Rome is at all times busy and at all times open, so no worries about lacking one of the best elements. In truth, Rome is without doubt one of the finest cities in Europe to go to in Winter.
Having mentioned that, our favorite time to go to Rome is in October, when the colors of the altering leaves look AMAZING in opposition to the backdrop of the town.
How lengthy to go to Rome for?
Should you’ve by no means been to Rome earlier than, keep a minimum of 3-4 days. There’s a lot to see, and when you don’t plan sufficient time, you’ll miss out.
TOP TIP: Don’t drive into Rome- use public transport.
The place to remain in Rome
There are a number of campsites on the outskirts of Rome, the place you would go away your camper. Should you’re in a automobile, or listed here are some nice offers on motels for any funds.
Should you’d like a central location, the Otivm Resort has unimaginable views and is true within the coronary heart of the town.
Planning to take your motorhome to Europe?
Southern Italy Street Journey
So, you’ve made it to Rome and wish to preserve heading south? Okay, let’s discuss Southern Italy highway journeys.
You’ll discover a distinction in southern Italy when it comes to highway high quality, and likewise in what number of service factors and gas stations there are- so be sure that to utilize them if you discover them.
It takes about 2 and a half hours to drive from Rome to Naples. The A3/E45 autostrada is the quickest route and is okay for motorhomes/ campers. From Naples, you can begin exploring the well-known Amalfi shoreline and different historic areas, like Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.
Watch out- elements of the Amalfi Coast route are unsuitable for motorhomes and campers.
Highlights and finest locations to go to on a Southern Italy Street Journey
A few of our favorite locations to go to in Southern Italy embody:
- The Amalfi Coast
- Pompeii and Herculaneun
- Puglia and Alberobello
- Cilento Nationwide Park and Paestum -the historical Temple ruins
- Sassi di Matera (Caves of Mattera)
Southern Italy Street Journey Map
Right here’s a map of a number of the finest locations to go to in Southern Italy. See beneath for extra particulars on every.
Naples
Personally, I didn’t fee Naples in any respect, however I didn’t go into the town centre, which is seemingly a lot nicer than the outskirts. Nonetheless, it’s the house of Pizza, so I really feel I have to return and provides it an opportunity.
Pompeii and Herculaneam
Pompeii is the well-known Roman metropolis which was buried when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. It’s unimaginable to have the ability to stroll the streets and see retailers, temples, homes and even the native brothel! There’s an excellent motorhome campsite simply throughout the road, Tenting Spartacus
Should you get probability, you’ll want to go to Herculaneum, which is nearer to Naples than Pompeii, however a lot much less well-known and due to this fact much less touristy.
Amalfi Coast Street Journey
The Amalfi coast is without doubt one of the iconic Italy highway journeys. Be warned, a number of the route from Sorrento to Salerno is not possible with a motorhome or camper, so that you received’t be capable of drive the whole factor except you’ve a motorcycle or scooter with you!
Sorrento
Bigger than many cities on the Amalfi Coast, however heat and filled with character, Sorrento is enjoyable. The previous city is completely pleasant and has an excellent alternative of eating places. Because the sunsets, loosen up with a glass of Limoncello, the native lemon liqueur. There are sometimes avenue musicians on the promenade overlooking the ocean.
TOP TIP: You should definitely get chips from the ‘Queens Chips’- typically voted one of the best within the space.
Agerola & Positano
Agerola is the start of the ten-km hike referred to as Path of the Gods. The views are gorgeous and at Vallone Porto, close to Positano, a tumbling waterfall and canyon, mark the top of the stroll. Positano is a tremendous city, constructed vertically on a rocky precipice.
Amalfi and Ravello
These are two of the bigger cities. Amalfi has the Duomo di Amalfi with its mosaics in yellow and inexperienced and there are a variety of boat journeys to take pleasure in or the possibility to sluggish the tempo and easily loosen up on the seaside.
Ravello’s treasures embody two gorgeous medieval palaces with superb views of the bay far beneath.
Capri
The final cease on the route is Capri. Take a ship journey to the grottos, or a cable automobile from the harbour as much as the city with its snazzy boutiques and romantic eating places.
This Italy highway journey itinerary was pushed by Chrysoula from Journey Passionate
Cilento Area Street Journey
Cilento is without doubt one of the undiscovered gems in Southern Italy. For some motive, it’s not as well-known as the opposite regions- which makes exploring it even higher, because it’s typically quieter.
There’s a nationwide park right here, which is great to discover, however the two highlights for me are the INCREDIBLE beaches- and the Paestum ruins.
Paestum Ruins
Paestum was an historical Greek metropolis and is now well-known for the ruins of thre historical Greek temples, courting from about 550 to 450 BC, that are in a surprisingly good state. The partitions and amphitheatre are largely intact, and the underside of the partitions of many different buildings stay, in addition to paved roads. The positioning is open to the general public, and is properly value a go to.
Palinuro
Truthfully, a lot of the shoreline of the Cilento area seems to be just like this, however this city is a superb place to cease for an evening or two in your Southern Italy highway journey. Thre’s not an enormous seaside, however the water in unbelievably clear and great to swim in.
Puglia- the heel of the boot!
Puglia is on the Adriatic coast within the south east of Italy and presents an exquisite mixture of crystal clear sea and historical historical past.
Among the highlights embody:
- Bari, the Capital of Puglia
- Polignano a Mare
- Alberobello- with the cone-shaped homes
- Monopoli
- Matera
- Lecce and Otranto
- The Cave of Poetry!
Puglia Street Journey itinerary
This Italy Street Journey thought was recommended by Ophelie from Limitless Secrets and techniques
You’ll be able to simply spend one week exploring Puglia as there are a lot of lovely spots to go to! Begin your Puglia highway journey in Bari, the capital of Puglia.
Bari has an fascinating Outdated City that you simply may wish to go to earlier than taking to the highway. Then head to Polignano a Mare, a couple of 30-minute drive away, which is a superb place to benefit from the seaside and a few spectacular shoreline views because it perched on prime of cliffs.
The following cease is Monopoli, simply quarter-hour down the coast. On this charming city you’ll be able to wander within the Outdated City- the Outdated Port is very picturesque.
After that, head inland to the gorgeous city of Alberobello- well-known for its trulli (cone-shaped) homes. It actually does seem like one thing out of a storybook. Alberobello is barely 25 minutes from Monopoli.
Then head west to Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage constructed on the aspect of the Matera Gravine and filled with caves (Sassi) that are superb to go to.
Head south for two hours and go to Lecce- well-known for the gorgeous baroque structure. In order for you extra lovely shoreline views, stunning rock formations and pure swimming pools, you’ll want to go to the Cave of Poetry (Grotta Della Poesia), which is a pure swimming pool in Roca Vecchia village, simply 30-minute drive east of Lecce.
Lastly, don’t miss Otranto. It doesn’t look a lot on the map, however the sea right here is without doubt one of the clearest azure I’ve ever seen!
The place to remain in Puglia?
One of the best locations to eat and keep in Puglia are the agriturismo: these are farms designed to additionally obtain company (for meals or for lodging). You will see a lot to select from!
Sardinia- one other Italy Street Journey thought
This Italy highway journey itinerary was recommended by Rachel of Common Lives
Should you’ve explored sufficient of the Italian mainland, you’ll be able to prolong your Italy highway journey to one of many islands close by, corresponding to Sardinia.
Sardinia is filled with lovely seashores, historic castles, and scrumptious meals. You’ll be able to take pleasure in. aroad journey in North Sardinia, from Olbia to Alghero, which can take round 5 days to per week, relying in your journey fashion.
Begin by exploring the quaint streets and markets of the town of Olbia. After hop on an inexpensive ferry (along with your automobile) to the close by Archipelago of La Maddalena. In La Maddalena city, head to I Vittelloni for fashionable vibes and one of the best aperitivo. Over the subsequent couple of days, discover Caprera Island and go to Cala Coticcio, the Garibaldi Museum, and Cala Napoletana. You received’t wish to go away, however you could observe the coast to Santa Teresa Di Gallura. First, eat breakfast, have a espresso, after which spend your day exploring the colorful streets, the Spanish Tower and watch the sundown on the close by hippie village – Valle Della Luna.
The following morning go to Li Cossi for a swim within the emerald water earlier than spending the night within the medieval village of Castelsardo. After you’ve completed exploring, make your method in the direction of Alghero and cease to forged your eyes on the ‘Elephant Rock’ after which benefit from the Catalan-style city. In Alghero, you’ll be able to see sensational seashores and make a journey to Grotte Di Nettuno in Capo Caccia’s cliffs. Most significantly, you’ll have completed probably the most lovely highway journeys in Italy and received’t wish to go away the idyllic island.
Methods to get to Sardinia from Italy
It’s simple to succeed in the island by automobile or motorhome from mainland Italy as a result of you’ll be able to catch a ferry from Genoa to Olbia. Be warned- this ferry might be costly, so e-book properly prematurely when you can, particularly in the summertime when it will get booked up shortly.
