Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast from Naples

Route description

Leave Naples on the A3 motorway towards Salerno and turn off at Pompei for the Scavi di Pompei, the Roman city buried by Vesuvius in AD 79. Its paved streets, houses and frescoes cover a large area, so allow at least half a day and bring water and sun protection.

From Pompei the SS145 follows the Sorrento peninsula along the Bay of Naples, with Vesuvius behind you, to Sorrento, a clifftop town with lemon groves and ferries to Capri. A seaside campsite near Sorrento makes a good base, because the next stretch is better done with the motorhome parked.

Over the ridge, the SS163 Amalfitana clings to the cliffs above the sea, reaching Positano, a vertical town of pastel houses above a beach. Parking is scarce and expensive, so arrive early or come by boat from Sorrento or Amalfi. Further east, Amalfi has a striped cathedral at the top of a broad flight of steps and a lively harbour.

The road continues past Minori, Maiori and Vietri sul Mare, known for its ceramics, and ends in Salerno. The SS163 is narrow and very busy in summer, and access rules for large vehicles and for cars on peak days change from year to year, so check the current restrictions before you go. Buses and ferries along the coast are often the less stressful option.