Planning an Italy highway journey? Listed here are itinerary concepts for Northern and Southern Italy, plus maps, route planner, greatest locations to go to and extra!
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Italy Highway Journey
Italy has an fascinating popularity relating to highway journeys. It’s notorious for loopy drivers doing reckless issues on tiny roads… and people tales aren’t fully inaccurate.
Driving in Italy CAN be difficult. There are certainly loopy drivers who refuse to present manner. There are some tough routes and roads could be poorly maintained, particularly within the south of Italy.
BUT, earlier than you quit the thought of an Italian highway journey fully, it’s one in every 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 manner!) and the meals entails pasta, pizza and copious quantities of ice cream. Significantly, what’s to not love.
It doesn’t matter whether or not you might be travelling Italy by automotive, motorhoming or campervanning in Italy or exploring by bike- there’s lots right here so that you can begin planning your good Italy highway journey. I’ve supplied highway journey itineraries, locations to go to and extra that will help you have a tremendous journey.
Final Italy highway journey Planner
Don’t overlook to seize your FREE highway journey planner- this beneficial information will permit you to make notes on the locations you wish to go to in Italy and hold all of it organised so you may keep 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 precise
- Motorways are GREEN, twin carriageways are blue (reverse to the UK and far of Europe)
- The utmost pace for personal autos below 3.5t is 130kph (81mph) on motorways however pace limits are decrease for automobiles towing caravans and for motorhomes over 3.5t in weight.
- When on two-lane motorways, dipped headlights have to be used.
- If driving by means of cities and villages, solely use the horn in an emergency.
- Buses and trams have proper of manner.
- Seatbelts are obligatory
- In-car pace digicam detectors and motorhome sat-nav methods warning of the presence of radars are unlawful (whether or not they’re in use or not!)
- Utilizing a cell phone whereas driving is unlawful, however you should utilize a hands-free unit.
- Minor visitors offences may end up in on-the-spot fines.
- UK driving licences are completely acceptable to make use of and also you most likely gained’t want an IDP (discover out the adjustments made to driving in Europe after BREXIT)
- You have to a inexperienced card to show you could have insurance coverage cowl when travelling in Italy.
Pace limits in Italy
Pace Limits are as follows for automobiles and autos below 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 realize it
Gas Stations in Italy
Gas costs are corresponding to France. and barely cheaper than the UK. Purchase gas wherever aside from on the primary roads- it’ll be cheaper.
There’s a ‘two-tier’ cost system in Italy. A less expensive choice in the event you fill your self (self-service), and a dearer charge in the event you get a forecourt attendant to do it for you. There’s usually a logo 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 shall be inexperienced handles on the pump.
Diesel is Gasolio / Diesel and shall 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 scale back air pollution ranges by proscribing autos into the centre. It is a ‘Zone Traffico Limitato’ or ZTL. Most ZTLs are for residents solely, so in the event you drive right into a ZTL you’ll obtain a superb by means of the submit. Additionally, NO rented autos are allowed in a ZTL at any time.
Low Emission Zones have gotten extra frequent all through Europe. In case you do resolve to drive right into a metropolis with no ZTL, test if there may be an LEZ or congestion cost to pay. Alternatively, park exterior the town and use public transport to entry the centre.
Hiring a automobile to your Italy Highway Journey
In case you don’t wish to drive or are planning to fly in, you may rent a automotive or campervan to your Italy highway journey. In case you’re flying into Italy, you’ll want to choose an airport close to the realm you wish to discover. Then you definitely’ll must discover a rent firm with a base close to there and plan the way to get from the airport to the campervan.
In case you’re driving after which hiring, make certain the rent firm has someplace safe to park your automotive 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 supplied 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 circulation of visitors if doable.
- 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. Be sure you get:
- Title and tackle of all of the individuals concerned within the accident
- Automobile registration numbers of all events
- Insurance coverage firm particulars of all events
- Take pictures of injury utilizing a digicam, GoPro or telephone
For extra particulars, learn our step-by-step information on coping with a highway visitors accident in Europe
Finest time of 12 months to do an Italian Highway Journey
As with all European highway journeys, WHEN is sort of as essential as WHERE.
I’ve loved a number of highway journeys in Italy, each in a automotive and in our motorhome. I’ve visited in each season- and once you go undoubtedly does make a distinction.
Italy Highway Journeys in Spring
Spring is a good time to highway journey in Italy. The later you permit it, the higher the climate shall be. Attempt to keep away from Easter in the event you can- many locations are closed for spiritual causes, but it surely additionally will get busy as faculties are on vacation.
Italian roadtrips in Summer season
Summer season is crowded just about in all places in Italy. Though the climate is mostly nice, having to queue for main points of interest within the warmth could make you wilt. Additionally, many inns and campsites ebook up months upfront.
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 good. See all our favorite locations in Europe in Autumn
Italy highway journeys in Winter
Don’t dismiss Italy in Winter– there’s nonetheless lots to do. Northern Italy does get chilly and there’s snow in winter, so that you’ll wish to be sure you have correct heating in your camper or motorhome.
Clearly, the additional south you go the hotter it is going to be. Sicily is the place the Italians go to flee the chilly temperatures within the north, so that may be busy. After all, if you wish to go snowboarding along with your motorhome, keep within the Dolomites and luxuriate in a few of the greatest slopes in Europe.
Snow continues in Northern Italy during till March. I did a tour from Rome to Florence (through 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 few of the museums and widespread websites to ourselves! If that’s too chilly for you, listed here are the warmest locations in Europe in February.
Italy Highway Journey Route concepts
When you have the time, there are numerous locations and routes you can absorb Italy. To assist, we’ve separated the nation into areas and sections for you, in addition to giving the most effective locations to go to in every space.
Highway journey to Italy from UK- route planner
In case you’re driving to Italy from the UK, it’s essential to enable at the least in the future to succeed in the Italian border. There are a number of routes you may take.
In case you’re planning a highway journey by means of France to Italy, I’ve put collectively a few of the greatest driving routes for motorhomes, campers, caravans and automobiles (full with estimated toll prices)
Tolls in Italy
Italy doesn’t have a vignette- it has tolls (pedaggio). You accumulate 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 dearer than Spain however cheaper than in France.
You should utilize a tollpass/ telepass (like e-Movis) or you may pay-as-you-go by money or card (I all the time advocate carrying some cash- simply in case!) Indicators point out the technique of cost accepted on every lane.
Italy Highway Journey- How lengthy to spend touring Italy
Italy Highway Journey One week
It’s doable to do an Italy highway journey in the event you solely have every week to your vacation. Nonetheless, you will want to plan your journey rigorously to be sure you 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 doable, going for at the least 10 days will permit you to see far more, and be capable to chill out and luxuriate in it.
Italy Highway journey 10-14 days (two weeks)
Clearly, the longer you could have, the extra you may see. As a information, I’d counsel two weeks for highway tripping round Northern Italy, and 10-14 days for Southern Italy.
Driving from North to South Italy
In case you’re determined to see as a lot of the nation (and eat as most of the totally different regional Italian dishes) as doable, it takes about 12 hours (1160km) to drive from Milan within the North to Catanzaro within the South- in accordance with Google maps. Personally, I feel that is VERY optimistic and it’s best to enable at the least 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? In case you want any package 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. Actually, I want Northern Italy to Southern Italy- however that’s primarily as a result of I really like the mountains. Listed here are some concepts to your highway journey.
Northern Italy Highway Journey highlights and greatest locations to go to
A few of our favorite locations in Northern Italy embrace:
- Gran Paradiso
- Cinque Terre, Portofino and Portovenere
- The Italian Lakes (particularly Lake Garda)
- The Dolomites
- Stelvio Go
- Venice
- Florence
- Rome
Northern Italy Bucket Checklist Map
Right here’s a map of a few of the locations talked about on our Northern Italy highway journey itinerary, so yow will discover them simply.
You could find out extra about every space under.
Italy North West Coast highway journey
In case you’re driving into Italy, particularly in the event you’re driving from the UK, many individuals discover themselves arriving within the North West- from France or Switzerland. If you’re going motorhoming in Switzerland, keep in mind it’s possible you’ll want greater than a vignette.
That is the proper introduction to Italy. There are nationwide parks, stunning villages, superb shoreline and dramatic mountains. It may well embrace 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 widespread for snowboarding, wildlife watching and mountain climbing.
Solely 20% of the park is forest- the remainder is scrubland, mountains or grassland, so if you wish to see wildlife the forests are an awesome place to move to. You may even see the well-known Ibex and Chamois.
The very 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 buy to remain on monitor.
How lengthy to remain in Gran Paradiso
You may get a style of the park in a day, however in the event you’d love to do any hikes or see extra of the highlights, keep within the space for at the least 2 or 3 days.
The place to remain in Gran Paradiso?
In case you’re in a campervan, watch out as wild tenting is forbidden in Nationwide Parks, however there are many campsites and Sostas round.
In case you’re touring Italy by automotive or bike, listed here are some great lodging choices for you.
I really like the Bellevue Lodge and Spa– pleasant, stress-free and proper close to the glacier.
Highlights of a highway journey in Gran Paradiso Nationwide Park
A few of the greatest issues to do in Gran Paradiso embrace:
- See Gran Paradiso- the best mountain
- Drive the Colle de Nivolet- scenic mountain cross
- See the views at Serru Lake
- Drive Col Ferret- mountain cross
- Cascate di Lillaz- 3-tier waterfall
Cinque Terre and Portovenere
Cinque Terre is among the most well-known areas in Italy- and for good purpose! It’s a collection of 5 stunning 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 exterior the Cinque Terre protected zone, however is properly value a go to too.
Driving into Cinque Terre
NOTE: Do NOT attempt to drive into Cinque Terre, even with a automotive and ESPECIALLY not with a motorhome or campervan. The roads are tiny and never straightforward for vacationers, plus there’s little to no parking. Some inns within the space do supply parking- in the event you’re driving to one in every of them attempt to keep away from arriving at peak instances, so the roads shall be quieter.
Alternatively, discover someplace protected to park your automobile for a few nights (reminiscent of 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 in the future and it’s doable, but it surely was a LOT of strolling. Staying for two days is better- 3 if you wish to see Portofino as properly.
Highlights of Cinque Terre
A few of the greatest issues to do within the space embrace:
- Benefit from the sandy seaside at Monterosso
- Strolling the path from Monterosso to Vernazza
- Exploring Vernazza Harbour and Fortress 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 appears to be like like one thing from a fairytale and is properly value a cease in your itinerary.
In case you go to in August, you’ll discover the Madonna Bianca Competition when a whole lot, if not hundreds, of Roman torches are lit at evening. Additionally, every Monday there’s a market within the city centre.
Italian Lakes Highway 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 every week and solely actually explored Lake Garda and Maggiore correctly. So you may simply spend two weeks within the space and nonetheless discover issues to do. After all, you may 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 embrace:
- Sirmione on Lake Garda. This picturesque city dates again to Roman instances. The fortress is twelfth century and is among the most stunning castles in Italy. You’ll be able to ebook a tour across the inside in the event 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 may as a result of it’s an enormous vacationer attraction and by mid-morning it is going to be very crowded.
- If you’re highway tripping Italy in a automotive or motorcycle (or wish to hire one for the day), don’t miss the Strada Della Forra Gorge highway on the west facet of Garda- it’s spectacular. The highway is actually carved right into a gorge and it’s so steep and slim that solely automobiles 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 larger than a big car- I feel even a 4×4 is likely to be too large!
- In case you like heights, there’s a zipwire close to Lake Maggiore which has been on my bucket listing for some time!
Milan to Lake Como Highway Journey
This Italian Highway 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. A lot of the historical buildings date all the way in which again to the 1400s, however the city is at present greatest generally known as a Formulation 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 purpose. A few of the smaller cities have their very own distinctive allure – Varenna, Lenno, Tremezzo and Menaggio to call a number of value visiting. And no drive on the lake is full with no cease at one of many well-known villas, reminiscent of 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 stunning metropolis of Bergamo to increase your journey a number of further days. Bergamo has a wealthy and lengthy historical past, unimaginable structure that spans a hillside, and a splendidly genuine vibe.
Stelvio Go
In case you’re feeling courageous in your Italian highway journey, head north from the lakes and drive the Stelvio Go.
The Stelvio Go is a excessive mountain cross carved into the Italian Alps. It has a collection 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 Go early within the morning- earlier than the crowds arrive and the highway turns into much more loopy!
(And sure, it appears to be like so much like Trollstigen Highway in Norway!)
Dolomites Highway Journey
The Dolomites are one of the breathtaking mountain areas in Europe. The unimaginable rock formations, mixed with the gorgeous lakes, valleys and unimaginable roads make this the most effective 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 Highway) 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 gives you a style. If you wish to hike and benefit from the open air, you want at the least 5-7 (and nonetheless will wish to return!)
See our full Dolomites highway journey itinerary
Highlights of a Dolomites Highway Journey
A few of our favorite locations within the Dolomites embrace:
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo (significantly, if you’re doing an Italy highway journey in a motorhome or campervan, you HAVE to remain up right here for at the least one evening (I stayed for two)
- Driving the Nice Dolomites Highway– this was magic and Lake Carezza is on it too.
- Lago di Braies
- Sella Go
- Val di Funes
- Through Ferrata
The place to remain within the Dolomites
In case 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 high of Tre Cime di Lavaredo- it’s unimaginable.
In case you’re not in a motorhome or camper, base your self at one in every of these fabulous areas (many with views of the Dolomites!)
Venice
Venice is among the most stunning cities within the world- there’s a purpose it’s one of the widespread 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, beautiful views- and it’s totally unsuitable for autos.
In case you’re exploring Europe in February, don’t miss the Venice Carnival – it is going to be loopy busy however spectacular!
When is the most effective time to go to Venice?
I extremely advocate visiting out of excessive season. Our favorite time to go to Venice is after summer- actually, it’s one of many greatest locations to see in Europe in October.
However it doesn’t matter what time of 12 months you go, do NOT attempt to drive into the town, particularly with a motorhome or camper.
East Coast Italy Highway Journey
The east coast of Italy (The Adriatic Coast) has a lot to advocate it. You’ll be able to really 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
A few of the greatest locations to go to on the Italian Adriatic Coast embrace:
- 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: could 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 awesome 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 among the oldest and smallest international locations within the world- solely 23sq miles and is usually one metropolis.
It was based on September third, 301. The individuals who reside in San Marino are usually not “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 at the least a day having fun with San Marino. There are castles, museums and towers to explore- you gained’t get to all of them in a day!
Advisable by Pamela from the Directionally Challenged Traveler
Tuscany Highway Journey Planner
This Tuscan Highway 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 unhealthy in most locations, and it’s not too crowded, besides in excessive summer season.
A few of the greatest locations to see in Tuscany embrace:
- 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 at the least a number of 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 everywhere, so you may keep at vineyards, farms or native producers for the evening if you wish to style their produce. There are additionally loads of inns and BnBs within the region- listed here are some great concepts for you.
Florence
In case you’re searching for a lovely metropolis in Italy, it’s essential 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 outlets and distinctive boutiques to find.
In addition to the galleries talked about above, you must also go to the Galleria dell’Accademia, which incorporates 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, one of the historic bridges in Florence. In addition to being picturesque, outlets line all sides of the bridge, together with jewellers, artisans and memento outlets.
Rome
Rome is the capital of Italy and essentially the most visited vacationer destination- and for good purpose. I’ve been to Rome many instances and by no means get bored with the historical past, the traditional websites, the structure or the unimaginable views.
When is the most effective time to go to Rome?
I extremely advocate visiting out of season. Rome is all the time busy and all the time open, so no worries about lacking the most effective components. Actually, Rome is among the greatest cities in Europe to go to in Winter.
Having stated that, our favorite time to go to Rome is in October, when the colors of the altering leaves look AMAZING towards the backdrop of the town.
How lengthy to go to Rome for?
In case you’ve by no means been to Rome earlier than, keep at the least 3-4 days. There’s a lot to see, and in the event 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 can go away your camper. In case you’re in a automotive, or listed here are some nice offers on inns for any finances.
In case you’d like a central location, the Otivm Lodge has unimaginable views and is true within the coronary heart of the town.
Planning to take your motorhome to Europe?
Southern Italy Highway Journey
So, you’ve made it to Rome and wish to hold heading south? Okay, let’s discuss Southern Italy highway journeys.
You’ll discover a distinction in southern Italy by way of highway high quality, and likewise in what number of service factors and gas stations there are- so make certain to utilize them once 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- components of the Amalfi Coast route are unsuitable for motorhomes and campers.
Highlights and greatest locations to go to on a Southern Italy Highway Journey
A few of our favorite locations to go to in Southern Italy embrace:
- 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 Highway Journey Map
Right here’s a map of a few of the greatest locations to go to in Southern Italy. See under for extra particulars on every.
Naples
Personally, I didn’t charge 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 residence of Pizza, so I really feel I must 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 outlets, temples, homes and even the native brothel! There’s an awesome motorhome campsite simply throughout the road, Tenting Spartacus
In case you get likelihood, you should definitely 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 Highway Journey
The Amalfi coast is among the iconic Italy highway journeys. Be warned, a few of the route from Sorrento to Salerno is inconceivable with a motorhome or camper, so that you gained’t be capable to drive the complete factor except you could have 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 outdated city is totally pleasant and has an awesome selection of eating places. Because the sunsets, chill out with a glass of Limoncello, the native lemon liqueur. There are sometimes road musicians on the promenade overlooking the ocean.
TOP TIP: Be sure you get chips from the ‘Queens Chips’- usually voted the most effective within the space.
Agerola & Positano
Agerola is the start of the ten-km hike referred to as Path of the Gods. The views are beautiful and at Vallone Porto, close to Positano, a tumbling waterfall and canyon, mark the tip 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 selection of boat journeys to take pleasure in or the prospect to sluggish the tempo and easily chill out on the seaside.
Ravello’s treasures embrace two beautiful medieval palaces with superb views of the bay far under.
Capri
The final cease on the route is Capri. Take a ship journey to the grottos, or a cable automotive 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 Highway Journey
Cilento is among the undiscovered gems in Southern Italy. For some purpose, 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 location is open to the general public, and is properly value a go to.
Palinuro
Truthfully, a lot of the shoreline of the Cilento area appears to be like much like this, however this city is a good 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 gives an exquisite mixture of crystal clear sea and historical historical past.
A few of the highlights embrace:
- Bari, the Capital of Puglia
- Polignano a Mare
- Alberobello- with the cone-shaped homes
- Monopoli
- Matera
- Lecce and Otranto
- The Cave of Poetry!
Puglia Highway Journey itinerary
This Italy Highway Journey concept was prompt by Ophelie from Limitless Secrets and techniques
You’ll be able to simply spend one week exploring Puglia as there are various stunning 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 good place to benefit from the seaside and a few spectacular shoreline views because it perched on high of cliffs.
The following cease is Monopoli, simply quarter-hour down the coast. On this charming city you may 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 appear to be 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 facet 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. If you’d like extra stunning shoreline views, stunning rock formations and pure swimming pools, you should definitely 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 among the clearest azure I’ve ever seen!
The place to remain in Puglia?
The perfect 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 lots to select from!
Sardinia- one other Italy Highway Journey concept
This Italy highway journey itinerary was prompt by Rachel of Common Lives
In case you’ve explored sufficient of the Italian mainland, you may lengthen your Italy highway journey to one of many islands close by, reminiscent of Sardinia.
Sardinia is stuffed with stunning seashores, historic castles, and scrumptious meals. You’ll be able to take pleasure in. aroad journey in North Sardinia, from Olbia to Alghero, which is able to take round 5 days to every 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 automotive) to the close by Archipelago of La Maddalena. In La Maddalena city, head to I Vittelloni for fashionable vibes and the most effective aperitivo. Over the following couple of days, discover Caprera Island and go to Cala Coticcio, the Garibaldi Museum, and Cala Napoletana. You gained’t wish to go away, however you have to 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 could have completed exploring, make your manner in direction of Alghero and cease to solid your eyes on the ‘Elephant Rock’ after which benefit from the Catalan-style city. In Alghero, you may see sensational seashores and make a journey to Grotte Di Nettuno in Capo Caccia’s cliffs. Most significantly, you should have completed one of the stunning highway journeys in Italy and gained’t wish to go away the idyllic island.
How one can get to Sardinia from Italy
It’s straightforward to succeed in the island by automotive or motorhome from mainland Italy as a result of you may catch a ferry from Genoa to Olbia. Be warned- this ferry could be costly, so ebook properly upfront in the event you can, particularly in the summertime when it will get booked up shortly.
