Private Tour: Pompeii and Positano Day Trip from Rome

This private tour has been designed for guests staying in Rome who wish to enjoy an overview of the spectacular Amalfi coast and explore the amazing ruins of Pompeii. After being picked up from your centrally-located Rome hotel, you will start your journey south to Italy’s Campania region with your knowledgeable, English-speaking driver in a private, air-conditioned minivan or sedan.

Your voyage begins with a drive through lush farmlands and rolling hills of the Castelli Romani region, just south of Rome. Castelli Romani literally means "Roman Castles," which probably evokes images of stone palaces, fairy tale monarchs, and towers where Rapunzel could let down her hair. In this case, however, the "Castelli Romani" refers to a collection of quaint hilltop villages around Lake Albano and Lake Nemi. This area has always been associated with great food and the simplicity of life. In ancient times, citizens of Rome would come to the Castelli Romani to escape the hustle and bustle and heat of Rome. Today the area is best known for Castel Gandolfo, the summer residence of the Pope, but the entire region is one of great natural beauty with many charming places to visit.

Founded by Saint Benedict in 529, Montecassino is one of Europe's oldest monasteries and the birthplace of the Benedictine order. Over the centuries the abbey has suffered numerous disasters, from being sacked by a variety of invaders to being destroyed by an earthquake, and it has been rebuilt numerous times. During WWII, Montecassino abbey was almost completely destroyed during the famous battle that bears its name. After the war, the abbey was carefully rebuilt and reconsecrated by Pope Paul VI in 1964.

As you travel around the Bay of Naples, you will receive a welcome not only from the sparkling water of the wide, graceful gulf but also from the natural wonder that dominates the landscape to the east: Mount Vesuvius. To the south of the bay lies the Sorrentine peninsula with the town of Sorrento perched at the end, and then the stupendous Amalfi coast.

As you drive past the imposing figure of Mt. Vesuvius, you'll also note that the area at the base of the volcano is vastly inhabited. About 3,000,000 people live in the shadow of Vesuvius, making it the most densely populated volcanic region in the world.

Pompeii is a place where time has stood still since 79 AD, when the cataclysmic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius rained tons of ash and lava down on the Roman city. The monumental disaster perfectly preserved the city, enabling modern-day visitors to get a unique look at Ancient Roman life.

The Amalfi Coast draws millions of visitors every year with the astounding beauty of its cliffs and sea. We'll travel a section of this dramatic coastline to reach Positano.

In the seaside village of Positano, a picture postcard comes to life. Nestled into the green cliffs, a patchwork of coloured houses tumbles down to meet the gentle curve of the beach and the sparking blue sea beyond. Enjoy time at your leisure and explore the designer boutiques, shops, and art galleries, as well as the lively beach promenade and seaside cafes. Please note: Positano can be replaced with Sorrento, if you wish. Speak to the local supplier before you travel. When the time comes, rejoin your driver and relax on the return journey to Rome, where your day trip concludes with a drop-off at your hotel.