*This post is written in collaboration with Emily Jones
Italy has always had a special place in my heart, and I keep seeing and hearing more about how special southern Italy is. Southern Italy is famous for its character, clear blue water, delicious and fresh seafood, and ample sunshine. It is also full of beautiful towns, many of which have earned their place on my general travel list and specific ‘Italy travel’ list.
Here are 5 of the top places I’d like to visit in the south of Italy:
Palermo
Palermo is the main city of Sicily and is full of character. In 2018, it was named the Italian Capital of Culture. Here you can explore the historical sites in the city including the Palatine Chapel and Massimo Theatre, enjoy a coffee or gelato with a view of your choosing, and wander and taste your way through the famous food markets. You can have a true authentic experience in one of the many Palermo villas that are available to rent. This gives you flexibility, privacy, space, and your own kitchen to have creating with and enjoying the delicious local ingredients.
Naples
Naples is well known for its delicious pizza, authenticity, high-energy city, and sea views. I have always wanted to walk through the streets of Naples, visit Pompeii, and get a classic Naples-style pizza, the Pizza Margherita. There is plenty to do in the city, such as visit the Museo Aracheologico Nazionale di Napoli, walk along the Naples Pier, play volleyball at the Lowdermilk Park, and so much more.
Capri
The famous island of Capri is set in the Bay of Naples and is a dream with its rugged landscape and luxurious setting. It is a dream destination for many, and it is possible to visit in a day, say coming from Naples or Sorrento on a fast ferry of 50 or 25 minutes respectively or via car ferry. The main town of Capri is only 7km along, but you are rewarded with views down the ridge of the two meeting mountains and out onto the sea.
Bari
Bari is the capital of the Puglia region and is a coastal town that is both urban and exquisitely charming. You can explore the basilica, see the cathedral of San Sabino, take a stroll with sea views, see a show at the opera house, enjoy a coffee at Piazza Mercantile, and spend some time at the crystal blue sea.
Catanzaro
Catanzaro is located in Calabria, overlooking the Ionian Sea to the east and the Tyrrhenian Sea to the north. It’s a destination that attracts many for time at the sea, late summer nights, gorgeous landscapes and beautiful sites such as the Ponte Bisantis and the Chiese di San Giovani. You can see the region’s flora and fauna at the Parco della Biodiversita Mediterranea to appreciate the local beauty and high on my list, visit the Campanaro Waterfall located about an hour outside the city.
Have you visited the south of Italy? What places in southern Italy would you add to this list?