Contrasts of Ischia and Sorrento and the beautiful Amalfi coast

Discover a slice of local Italy in Ischia. Just a stone’s throw from the mainland in the sparkling Bay of Naples, the island is regarded as Capri’s lesser-known sister. Quieter, yes. More relaxed, yes. But this volcanic island is just as seductive. It’s host to some dramatic historic sites and a string of soft, sandy beaches - plus there’s over 100 thermal springs which make it a popular wellness destination for locals and visitors alike. We waste no time in getting to know the island on a coastline tour with a local guide today. We’ll stop in Forio; drive via Panza to Serrara Fontana; visit Ischia Ponte, the site of the island’s magnificent medieval Castello Aragonese; and pretty little Lacco Ameno.

Excursions & visits:

Guided tour of Ischia (all day)

If you’ve felt the urge to dip your toes into sparkling blue waters, today might be the day. After a nice, leisurely morning, we take to the water for an island tour by boat around Ischia and Procida. The tiny little island of Procida in the Bay of Naples is a favourite among Italian holidaymakers and there’s a real local feel here. We’ll cruise around the island taking in the pretty sights from afar. We’ll pass Castello Aragonese and sail towards San Angelo to enjoy the views from the harbour. We’ll head back to the hotel for an aperitivo before dinner. The perfect end to a memorable day.

Excursions & visits:

Boat tour around Ischia and Procida (afternoon)

This morning we’ll take the ferry back to the mainland and transfer to Sorrento. The afternoon is free to relax at the hotel. Later, maybe sip a refreshing drink as the sun sets over the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

Cascading down a steep hillside overlooking the Bay of Naples and mighty Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento is a web of twisting narrow streets filled with family-run trattorias and gelato parlours. We head into Sorrento today to explore its cobbled streets together. Soak up the beautiful sea views - the view of Mount Vesuvius in the distance - and browse the lively street vendors selling famed Amalfi lemons. After the guided tour, we’ll stop by a local lemon grove to learn about the production of limoncello and local jam tasting.

Excursions & visits:

Guided tour of Sorrento with lemon grove visit and tasting (morning)

Feast your eyes on some of the world’s most beautiful and iconic towns as we cruise past the glamorous Amalfi Coast by boat. On our guided tour, we’ll first visit Positano; a cascade of pretty pastel-coloured houses and steep, winding streets. We’ll then continue to Amalfi, where sun-filled piazzas sit by historic buildings. It’s the perfect place to just sit and look. We’ll stop at a local patisserie for a tasting of the local sweet, ‘delize al limone’ (lemon delight) which is a sponge drizzled in a limoncello based syrup.

Excursions & visits:

Visit Positano and Amalfi by boat with cake tasting (all day)

Today is at leisure for you to spend as you please. Perhaps soak up those last views of the Bay of Naples, or maybe potter around the streets of Sorrento. Alternatively, you could join our optional tour to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. With a local expert, you’ll explore the one-time wealthy Roman town of Pompeii, which was buried in AD 79 by a massive eruption of Mount Vesuvius. You’ll also make the incredible journey up to the crater at the peak of the volcano. This evening we’ll enjoy a local farewell dinner together.

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival, your vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.