Private Amalfi Drive and Pompeii

Explore Pompeii City with a Drive Along Amalfi Coast Departing from the Maritime Station for your Naples excursion with your professionally-trained guide, you will pass Mount Vesuvius as you begin the drive en route to the Amalfi Coast. Admire the dolomite cliffs, towering straight up out of the sea and typical villages, which have characterized Sorrento's Peninsula for many centuries. Pause for a photo opportunity at a vantage point to admire the fascinating coast. Drive along the steep winding coastal road passing Positano, a pretty fishing village, which has become something of a colony of artists and writers. The picturesque seaside resort of Amalfi lies at the mouth of a deep gorge. It is one of the most popular holiday resorts in Italy. As a sea power, Amalfi played an important role in the Middle Ages. Amalfi was part of the four Maritime Republics that included Venice, Genoa, and Pisa. You will have free time on your own to take photos and stroll along the narrow streets to the Piazza del Duomo. From this square, a flight of 60 + steps leads to the impressive Cathedral of St. Andrew. The interior of the church dates as far back as the 13th century with the highlight of the cathedral being the 11th-century bronze doors from Constantinople. Your coach will wind its way along the Amalfi Coast passing by Vietri sul Mare onto the autostrada towards the ancient City of Pompeii. Ironically, one of the ancient world's worst disasters preserved time in Pompeii, where you will experience life as it was lived in 79 AD. Once a thriving empire 1,900 years ago, it was devastated by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD when 30 feet of volcanic ash and pumice stone covered the city. As you enter Pompeii by one of its ancient gates, a short walk takes you to the city's hub, the Forum. Surrounded by lavish temples and porticoes, you'll begin to grasp the lifestyle of the inhabitants. Admire the mansions and the art of wealthy patricians who moved to Pompeii to escape the turmoil of Rome; view countless paintings and inscriptions. See the streets with raised pavements on both sides and the stepping-stones that ensured pedestrians a safe crossing at intersections. After you visit Pompeii, you will drive back to Naples. Due to the crowds at Pompeii and on the Amalfi Drive, the itinerary may be altered. All sites mentioned will be visited. Lunch will be taken at a restaurant near Pompeii. Please Note: This tour accomodates only 6 guests due to changed traffic regulations on the Amalfi Coast.