15 Best Things to See in South Italy
Are you looking for the best things to see in south Italy?
Italy is a country that boasts an incredible wealth of cultural and artistic heritage, spanning thousands of years. While many travellers are drawn to the well-known cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice, the southern regions of Italy are also home to a plethora of attractions that should not be missed.
From ancient archaeological sites to stunning natural landscapes and delicious cuisine, southern Italy has something for every traveller.
This guide gives you 15 outstanding things to see in southern Italy with plenty of ideas for every type of traveller. Whether it’s your first-time visit or you’re exploring more of the country, I’m confident you’ll love some of these great ideas.
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Travelling to Italy – Know Before You Go
Before planning your trip to Italy, there are some things you’ll need to check. It’s important to note that most non-European Union citizens require a travel visa to enter Italy.
The application process can take several weeks, so it’s advisable to start early. Once you’ve secured your visa, you’ll be ready to explore the following attractions in southern Italy.
15 Outstanding Things to See in South Italy?
There are a ton of things to see in southern Italy, so we’ve put together this shortlist of south Italy highlights. We’ve included UNESCO sites, ruins, stunning road trips, and beautiful landscapes. Which ones are you going to visit?
Pompeii
Pompeii is located near Naples. These famous ruins are of an ancient Roman city. The city was buried by ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. They date back to 79 AD and because they were buried for hundreds of years, have preserved what life was like back then
Today, visitors can wander through the remarkably well-preserved ruins and gain a glimpse into life in ancient Rome. Highlights include the amphitheatre, the Forum, and the House of the Faun, which features a stunning mosaic floor.
The Amalfi Coast
Driving the Amalfi Coast is often top of lots of people’s Italian bucket lists. It’s one of the most scenic stretches of coastline in the world, with its colourful villages perched on steep cliffs overlooking the azure Mediterranean Sea.
Visitors can explore the charming town of Positano, sample fresh seafood in the fishing village of Cetara, or take a boat tour to the stunning island of Capri.
Matera Matera
Located in the southern region of Basilicata, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its ancient cave dwellings, or “sassi,” were once home to the city’s poorest residents but have now been transformed into chic boutique hotels and restaurants.
The city was also designated as a European Capital of Culture in 2019.
The Trulli of Alberobello
The town of Alberobello is famous for its unique conical buildings, known as trulli. These traditional structures, made from limestone without the use of mortar, were built by peasants in the 14th century as a way to avoid paying property taxes.
Today, visitors can wander through the town’s narrow streets and admire the unique architecture.
The Cilento Coast
The Cilento Coast, located in the Campania region, is a rugged and wild stretch of coastline that offers stunning views and pristine beaches. Visitors can explore the seaside town of Palinuro, hike through the rugged hills of the Cilento National Park, or sample local delicacies such as buffalo mozzarella and cured meats.
The Greek Temples of Paestum
The ancient Greek city of Paestum, near the town of Salerno, is home to some of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. These stunning structures, including the Temple of Hera and the Temple of Neptune, date back to the 6th and 5th centuries BC and offer a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region.
The Royal Palace of Caserta
The Royal Palace of Caserta, which is close to Naples, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and was once the residence of the Bourbon kings of Naples. The palace boasts over 1,200 rooms, including a grand ballroom and a stunning garden that spans over 120 acres.
The Aeolian Islands
The Aeolian Islands, just off the coast of Sicily, are a group of volcanic islands that offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history. Visitors can hike to the summit of the active volcano on Stromboli, relax on the black sand beaches of Vulcano, or explore the picturesque town of Lipari.
If you’re eager to go island hopping, but you’re in the west of Sicily, then I recommend the Egadi Islands instead. It’s one of the best things to see near Trapani.
The Valley of the Temples
One interesting fact about Sicily is that it’s home to some of the best Greek ruins outside of Greece. The Valley of the Temples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that can be found in the city of Agrigento in Sicily.
This archaeological site features a collection of ancient Greek temples, including the Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved Doric temples in the world. Visitors can also explore the ruins of the ancient city of Akragas and learn about the rich history of Greek civilization in Sicily.
The Baroque Architecture of Lecce
The city of Lecce, situated n the Puglia region, is known as the “Florence of the South” thanks to its stunning Baroque architecture. Visitors can explore the ornate churches and palaces that line the city’s streets, including the Basilica di Santa Croce, which features intricate carvings and sculptures.
The Tratturi of Molise
The Tratturi of Molise is a series of ancient roads that were used for the seasonal migration of sheep from the mountains to the plains. Today, visitors can hike along the well-preserved paths and explore the picturesque towns and villages that dot the countryside.
The Blue Grotto of Capri
The Blue Grotto is a sea cave located on the island of Capri that is famous for its brilliant blue waters. Visitors can take a boat tour into the cave and marvel at the iridescent hues created by the reflection of the sunlight on the water. Be sure to put this on your Italy bucket list.
The Taranto National Archaeological Museum
The Taranto National Archaeological Museum, located in the city of Taranto in Puglia, is home to an impressive collection of ancient relics from the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras.
Highlights include the famous gold artefacts from the tomb of the “Warrior of Taranto” and the collection of ancient Greek pottery.
The Matera Bread Festival
The Matera Bread Festival is an annual event that takes place in the city of Matera in September. The festival celebrates the traditional bread-making techniques of the region and features demonstrations, tastings, and workshops.
The Salento Wine Region
The Salento Wine Region, located in the heel of Italy’s boot, is known for its excellent wines, including the Primitivo di Manduria and the Negroamaro. Visitors can take wine tours and tastings at the many vineyards and wineries in the region and learn about the rich history of winemaking in Puglia.
What Are You Going to Visit in Southern Italy?
Southern Italy is a region full of culture, history, and incredible sights to see. Whether you’re looking for ancient ruins or modern attractions, it has something to offer everyone.
If you’re planning a trip to Italy, check out these other useful articles.