11 Feb Exploring Campania, Italy

As I think about where I plan to travel in this new year, I keep thinking about my trip to Italy last fall. Campania, in the south of Italy had been on my bucket list for years and I finally went. I spent a week traveling around Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia and Naples. I ate, I drank, I went sight-seeing and I wrote about it for Wander with Wonder. I am sharing a portion of the story here and hope you will click the link to read the entire story. *******************   I have traveled to Italy more than a dozen times and visited many regions. But one region that had always been at the top of my list, yet I had not been to, was Campania. Located on the south-western portion of the Italian Peninsula, with the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west, Campania is the third most populous region in Italy and home to some of the most famous destinations, including the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, and Naples. The name Campania is derived from Latin and translates into “fertile countryside”. It is a region rich in culture, ranging from its architecture and archeology to its gastronomy and I explored this wonderful region for six days. I welcome you to join me as I wander to Italy for exploring Campania.

Visiting Sorrento

Overlooking the Bay of Naples, Sorrento is a coastal town that is a popular tourist destination. The town sits atop cliffs that separate the town from the marinas. It was the perfect spot to begin exploring Campania. Sorrento is a resort town and is a good place to make as a home base when exploring the region as it is easily accessible by boat, bus or car. The historic center is a charming town filled with narrow streets that are easy to get around on foot. I found a modern boutique hotel, Palazzo Abagnale & Tritone, located in the center of town. The room was clean and renovated, the staff was friendly and helpful, and a lovely breakfast was offered each morning.

Where To Eat in Sorrento

Sorrento is known for its seafood and it is hard to not eat well here. But, if you are looking for a memorable and delicious dining experience, head to the 1-star Michelin restaurant Il Buco, located in the wine cellars of an old monastery. Considered one of the best restaurants in Sorrento, Il Buco has been open for more than 20 years and has held its Michelin Star for 14 years. Chef and owner of Il Buco, Giuseppe “Peppe” Aversa, is a very friendly man who visits guests at the table. Il Buco offers a tasting menu featuring fresh fish along with a tasting menu focused more on the land. You can also order from the a la carte menu. I personally selected the “I Trust You” menu in which Chef Peppe created the menu for me.

Day Trips from Sorrento

With Sorrento as a home base, it is easy to plan day trips to give you more opportunities for exploring Campania. There is plenty of time to explore during the day and then to come back and relax in Sorrento each evening. Read the rest of the story on Wander with Wonder where you will learn about where to eat, drink, sleep, and have fun for when you plan your next trip to Campania.