Southern Italy: The Amalfi Coast and Volcanoes of the Aeolian Islands

Location: Europe
Duration: 11 Days
Price: From $7,345
Activity Level: High Energy

Southern Italy: The Amalfi Coast and Volcanoes of the Aeolian Islands

Location: Europe
Duration: 11 Days
Price: From $7,345
Activity Level: High Energy

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Southern Italy with Adventure Women, showcasing the breathtaking Amalfi Coast and the Aeolian Islands. Start your journey with a warm welcome dinner in Naples, where you’ll dive into the city’s vibrant culture and rich history. Trek the dramatic craters of Mt. Vesuvius and explore the stunning trails of Capri, before delving into the ancient wonders of Pompeii. Cruise along the Amalfi Coast, savoring local delicacies with a delightful home-cooked meal. Set sail to the Aeolian Islands—Lipari, Vulcano, and Stromboli—where you’ll marvel at volcanic eruptions and picturesque landscapes. Conclude your adventure with a wine-tasting tour in Catania and a thrilling hike up Mt. Etna. This high-energy, women’s small group journey promises excitement and discovery at every turn.

Main Attractions

Amalfi Coast City Highlights

Enjoy a scenic drive along the beautiful Amalfi Coast and explore the lively cities of Naples, Catania, and Positano.

Island Hopping in Aeolian Archipelago

Travel by boat to the islands of Capri, Vulcano, and Stromboli in the Aeolian Archipelago.

Volcanic Hikes and Pompeii Exploration

Hike to see amazing sights along the crater of Vesuvius, the “path of the gods” along the coast, and the trails up Mt. Etna. Visit the extraordinary site of Pompeii which was destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius.

Map showing Italy, Sicily, and nearby islands with locations like Naples, Stromboli, and Mt. Etna. Includes illustrations of planes, a train, and a car, and a fun activities legend.
Two plates of pasta: one with clams on a red plate and one with pesto and shrimp on a blue plate. Two glasses of orange spritz are visible.
A plate with various meats, cheese, vegetable slices, and bread. Three empty wine glasses are partially visible above the plate.
A Mediterranean-style terrace with blue and white decor, ceramic pots, and a mountain view through large windows.
Person standing on a rocky, snow-dotted mountain slope with a cloudy sky in the background.
Aerial view of a marina with docked boats and a historic fortress in the background, set against a coastal backdrop under a clear sky.
A group of tourists stands in a narrow, graffiti-covered alley, some holding red flowers, on a sunny day.
A group of people standing in front of a mountain landscape with trees and a wooden fence.
A group of hikers walking up a rocky trail on a cloudy day, some using trekking poles, with wooden rails on the side.
A group of hikers with backpacks and trekking poles walks along a narrow, rocky path beside terraced fields and lush greenery, with steep cliffs in the background.
A person smiles while leaning against a stone wall on a flower-lined staircase with an ocean view in the background.
A group of people pose on a terrace overlooking a coastal town and cliffs, with a view of the sea and boats in the background.

Itinerary

Boats are moored in a small harbor next to a stone wall with people swimming nearby. Background shows a sunny coastline with buildings on a distant hill.

Welcome to Naples: Dinner & Discovery

Arrive in Naples and immerse yourself in the charm of Southern Italy. Transfer to your hotel, where you can unwind and refresh. By evening, join a warm welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you’ll meet your expert Italian guide and fellow travelers. Share stories, savor local cuisine, and get excited for the adventures that lie ahead. This evening sets the stage for exploring the stunning coastal seascapes and volcanic landscapes of Italy.

Meals dinner
A grand hall with elaborate marble statues and sculptures lining the walls and a central sculpted figure on the floor, surrounded by a decorative, patterned floor.

Historic Naples: Art, Culture, and Cuisine

Discover the rich heritage of Naples on a guided walking tour. Explore the city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit landmarks such as the San Carlo Theater and the Sansevero Chapel with its stunning Cristo Velato statue. Meet a local female entrepreneur from a renowned jeweler and learn about her craft. After a group lunch, delve into ancient artifacts at the Naples Archaeological Museum. Enjoy a free evening to dine at your leisure and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city. Expect 3-4 hours of walking, covering approximately 5 miles.

Meals breakfast, lunch
A group of people in hiking attire pose for a photo in front of a mountainous crater, with a wooden fence in the background.

Vesuvius Hike, Pompeii Wonders, and Pizza

Embark on a day of exploration starting with a hike to the crater of Mt. Vesuvius, offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples. Afterward, enjoy a delightful lunch at a local winery, where you’ll savor dishes paired with fine wines from the region. Next, delve into the ancient city of Pompeii, preserved under volcanic ash and offering a captivating glimpse into Roman life. Conclude your day with a group dinner at a pizzeria in Naples, savoring authentic Italian pizza. Expect 3 hours of hiking, covering 3 miles with varied terrain and a 600 ft elevation gain.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Two people smiling with a scenic view of a coastal landscape, featuring cliffs, greenery, and the ocean under a partly cloudy sky.

Scenic Amalfi Hike and Positano Exploration

Drive to the Amalfi Coast and start your day hiking the renowned “Path of the Gods,” or “Sentiero degli Dei,” which offers stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and rugged cliffs. The trail takes you from Agerola to Nocelle, passing ancient stone houses and shepherds’ huts. Enjoy a lunch break in Nocelle before descending to the charming village of Positano. Spend the afternoon exploring Positano’s colorful streets and coastal beauty at your own pace. Conclude your day with a return drive to Naples, showcasing the natural and cultural splendor of the Amalfi Coast.

Meals breakfast, lunch
Rocky cliffs and several boats on the blue sea near a coastline.

Capri Hike, Scenic Views, and Ferry to Lipari

Take a ferry to the enchanting island of Capri, known for its artistic heritage and stunning landscapes. Hike through Mediterranean trails to Villa Lysis, the largest of Tiberius’ villas, and enjoy panoramic views of the mainland and the Faraglioni rock formations just off the coast. Savor a delightful merenda, or afternoon small bites, in a local home before returning to Naples. Board the overnight ferry to Lipari to end the day. The day’s activities include 3 hours of hiking, covering 5 miles with an 850 ft elevation gain and descent.

Meals breakfast, lunch
Rocky coastline with clear turquoise water, a small boat floating nearby. A sailboat is visible on the horizon under a blue sky.

Discover Lipari and Panarea’s Charm

Travel from Naples to the Aeolian Archipelago, starting with a visit to Lipari. Begin your day with breakfast either on the ferry or at a local café upon arrival. Explore Lipari, including the archaeological museum within Lipari Castle, the Greek acropolis, and the Norman cathedral. After a lunch of fresh local fish, continue to Panarea, the charming car-free island. Check into your hotel and enjoy a group dinner, concluding your day immersed in the natural beauty and rich history of these volcanic islands.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Two people in hiking gear pose with arms raised on a rocky mountain terrain under a clear blue sky.

Vulcano Summit Hike

Start your day with a private boat ride to Vulcano, the southernmost island of the Aeolian Archipelago. Hike to the island’s summit to witness volcanic features such as smoke clouds and sulfuric mud holes, known for their therapeutic benefits. Enjoy a light lunch at a local cheese farm, sampling fresh goat cheese and homemade cannoli. After returning to your hotel, spend the afternoon at your leisure—relax, explore the village, visit the beach, or hike further on your own. The hike includes 2 hours of walking, covering 3 miles with a 1,250 ft elevation gain and descent.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Smoke rises from the peak of an active volcano against a clear blue sky, with dark ash and lava flows visible on its slopes.

Leisure in Panarea and Stromboli Volcano Adventure

Enjoy a relaxed day in Panarea, where you can explore two beautiful beaches at your own pace. In the evening, board a private boat to Stromboli, the most active volcano in Europe known for its frequent volcanic eruptions. Witness the spectacular “Sciara del Fuoco” from the boat, observing the lava flows and impressive eruptions as you enjoy dinner on board. After the volcanic show, return to Panarea for the night. This day combines leisure, natural wonders, and an unforgettable volcanic experience.

Meals breakfast, dinner
Five people sitting together on a boat bench with the ocean and mountains in the background.

Catania Highlights and Wine Tasting

After breakfast, embark on a boat to Milazzo, a charming Sicilian village. From there, travel to Catania, located at the base of Mt. Etna. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant before joining a walking tour of Catania’s historic center. Explore Piazza Duomo with its Fountain of the Elephant, the Cathedral of St. Agatha, and the ancient Roman amphitheater at Piazza Stesicoro. Next, head to Mount Etna Natural Park and visit a local winery for a tasting session and a light dinner. Check into your accommodation on the slopes of Mt. Etna to conclude the day.

Meals breakfast, dinner
A person with a backpack walks on a path surrounded by sparse vegetation, with a large, rocky mountain in the background.

Summit Mt. Etna and Reflect

Explore Europe’s largest active volcano, Mt. Etna, starting with a hike from Rifugia Sapienza at 6,000 feet. Trek across cinder cones and extinct craters, taking in stunning panoramic views of the coast. After a picnic lunch, return to your accommodation for a leisurely afternoon. In the evening, join a festive farewell dinner to celebrate the remarkable experiences and accomplishments of your Italian adventure. Expect 3-4 hours of hiking over 6 miles with a 1,500 ft elevation gain and loss.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A group of people stand on a wooden railing platform overlooking a coastal cliff, with grassy vegetation and a distant view of the sea.

Farewell and Departure from Catania

Say farewell to your AdventureWomen friends as you transfer to Catania Airport for your flight home. Safe travels and fond memories as you head back from your Italian adventure!

Meals breakfast
Coastal town with colorful buildings on a cliff, surrounded by clear blue sea and mountains. Lemons hang from a tree in the foreground.

Accommodations

Please note that all amenities were current when written and are subject to change at any time.

Historic multi-story hotel building with several flags on display, set against a clear blue sky, with a mountain visible in the background.

Grand Hotel Santa Lucia

The Grand Hotel Santa Lucia in Naples overlooks historic Mt. Vesuvius and majestic Castel Del ‘Ovo with the beautiful bay as a backdrop. Enjoy a comfortable stay in your well-appointed room.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, safe, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

Two people standing on a boat docked near a stone pier, with buildings and a hill in the background on a sunny day.

Overnight Ferry

The only way to travel to the Aeolian Islands is via ferry. The ferry has nine decks and accommodates both passengers and vehicles. You can buy a bite to eat in the cafeteria or purchase drinks and snacks in the bar. If the weather is nice, enjoy beautiful views from the open-air deck.

AMENITIES: soap, en suite bathroom with toilet and marine shower

Outdoor dining area with tables and blue chairs overlooking a calm sea at sunset, with a small rocky island in the distance.

Hotel Lisca Bianca

Located just steps away from the port of Panarea, the Hotel Lisca Bianca is appointed with traditional Aeolian style. Relax in the tranquil rooms surrounded by gardens and enjoy the panoramic views of the sea.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, safe, minibar, flatscreen TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning

Aerial view of a large villa with a red-tiled roof surrounded by greenery and mountains, featuring a swimming pool and shaded areas.

Il Picciolo Etna Resort

This beautiful resort and spa is situated on the slopes of Mt. Etna and is adjacent to an 18-hole golf course. Enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Etna while relaxing in comfortable elegance.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, flatscreen TV, safe, air conditioning, Wi-Fi

What People Are Saying

“I had an amazing experience traveling with AdventureWomen to the Amalfi Coast! It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime trip! I will remember most hiking up Mt. Vesuvius, Path of the Gods, Vulcano, & Watching Mt. Stromboli erupt!”

Dates & Pricing

Start Date End Date Availability Pricing Booking Link
Sep 5 Sep 15
Space Available
$7,345*
Standard Room, Single
$8,745 total, $800 deposit
Standard Room, Double
$7,345 total, $800 deposit

*Additional Pricing Information: 2025 Optional Single Accommodation: $1,400

Start Date End Date Availability Pricing Booking Link
Sep 4 Sep 14
Space Available
$7,895*
Standard Room, Single
$9,395 total, $800 deposit
Standard Room, Double
$7,895 total, $800 deposit

*Additional Pricing Information: 2026 Optional Single Accommodation: $1,500

Arrival: Arrive in Naples, Italy (NAP) before 3:00 PM on Day 1. A group transfer will be provided when most guests arrive (exact time to be determined). Private transfers at different times can be arranged for an extra charge.

Departure: Depart Catania, Italy (CTA) any time after 12:00 PM on Day 11.

What's Included

  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • English-speaking guide(s) throughout the trip
  • Guided sightseeing and activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • Drinking water to refill personal bottles
  • Group transfer on arrival and departure
  • All gratuities except for the main guide

What's Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Italy
  • Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
  • Gratuities for the main guide

FAQs

Absolutely! We happily welcome all women as long as you are physically capable of doing the activities on your chosen trip. Our guests range from 18-85+! It is important to us to talk to each guest to make sure each woman chooses the right trip for her physical ability and interest.

You can process your registration on our online booking system or over the phone. Most deposits are $800. In many cases, and unless otherwise indicated, your deposit is transferable if you notify us in writing 120 before your trip departs.

Be sure to check the ‘What’s Included’ section of the trip you are interested in. Once you get to the departure city and meet the group, we often include most meals, all accommodations, all activities (although there might be an optional activity at an additional cost), transportation while on the adventure, qualified local guide(s) and some trips also include an AdventureWomen Ambassador. Our trips do not include airfare to/from the arrival and departure cities. However, internal flights are included in some itineraries so please read the itinerary carefully.

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it! Many of the women who travel with AdventureWomen come solo. For those that do not choose a single supplement, we pair you with a roommate. Usually, when we change accommodations on a trip, we will change roommates if we can, so you get a chance to know others in our group. A limited number of single supplements may be available for an additional charge.

That depends entirely on the trip! AdventureWomen adventure travel trips are rated according to the physical fitness level demanded by the included activities.

  • Moderate: These adventures exercise your mind more than your body and are designed for women who prefer a leisurely, less rigorous experience. For example, you could walk up to 2 miles per day through cities and villages, stand in museums for a few hours, relax on a boat, or view wildlife from a vehicle.
  • Active: Adventures that get you on your feet! You should be in good physical condition where you are comfortable walking on uneven surfaces, such as cobblestone streets, biking manicured nature trails or kayaking calm waters.
  • High Energy: These adventures are designed for women who enjoy a physical challenge and crave being on the go! You should be prepared for itineraries that include (but are not limited to): a full day of biking on a rolling terrain, hiking 5-8 miles on moderate to steep trails, being active at high altitudes, whitewater rafting, or skiing.
  • Challenging: Adventures that get your heart rate pumping, these are demanding yet deeply rewarding and designed for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. You should be in excellent physical condition, and be able to hike up to 10 miles, in steeper, more rugged terrain.