Trip Overview

This is an amazing, classic, and vibrant adventure to Southern Italy. Enjoy a scenic drive along the stunning Amalfi Coast, travel by boat to the islands of Capri, Vulcano, and Stromboli in the Aeolian Archipelago, and visit the extraordinary site of Pompeii, which was destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. High-energy hikes lead you along the crater of Vesuvius, the “path of the gods” along the coast, and the trails up Mt. Etna. 

During your adventure, you’ll get to know your expert Italian guide who will lead you and help you explore life along the southern coast. You’ll meet incredible individuals on your journey who will contribute to making your experience a fun and personally fulfilling adventure. They’ll cheer you on as you step outside your comfort zone, embracing new challenges in your own distinct way!

Welcome to Italy!

Naples is one of the most ancient cities in all of Europe, and its entire city center has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its vast array of architecture.  Enjoy such specialties as cuppetiello (a tasting of mini arancini), frittatine (fried stuffed pasta balls), and sfogliatelle (ricotta-filled pastries).

Hike the site of the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii offers a unique glimpse into ancient life, as the city was well preserved and frozen in time under the volcanic ash that rained down upon the town in AD 79. A winery and then pizza await after your climb.

A drive takes you to the Amalfi Coast and Agerola, from where you can take the breathtaking “Path of the Gods”. Then, ferry to the fabled island of Capri.

Aeolian Archipelago & Mt Etna

The Aeolian Archipelago comprises seven islands off the northern coast of Sicily: Lipari, Vulcano, Salina, Stromboli, Filicudi, Alicudi, and Panarea. These islands were all formed due to volcanic activity, and there are still two active volcanoes in the archipelago today. You will have the chance to visit four of the seven islands during your adventure!

Take a walking tour of Catania, known for its grand piazzas, wide roads, and architecture made of volcanic rock.

Today, you will visit Europe’s largest active volcano, Mt. Etna. This towering mountain dominates the skyline of eastern Sicily. You will start your walk at Rifugia Sapienza, which is at 6,000 feet above sea level. Hike among cinder cones and extinct craters over this desolate expanse of the upper portion of Mt.

Your last day stops at a winery on the slopes of this legendary volcano. Meet the owner and sample some of his delectable wines before returning to your resort. Here, you will spend a festive farewell dinner celebrating all the incredible sights and amazing accomplishments you experienced with your traveling companions during your time in Italy.

Main Attractions

  • Enjoy a scenic drive along the beautiful Amalfi Coast
  • Travel by boat to the islands of Capri, Vulcano, and Stromboli in the Aeolian Archipelago
  • Visit the extraordinary site of Pompeii which was destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius
  • Hike to see amazing sights along the crater of Vesuvius, the "path of the gods" along the coast, and the trails up Mt. Etna
  • Explore the lively cities of Naples and Catania

What You'll See and Do

  • Archaeology
  • Cooking Class
  • Hiking
  • Historical Sites
  • Local Delicacies
  • National Parks
  • Natural History
  • Wine Tasting

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686

Trip Itinerary

The AdventureWomen itineraries are subject to change depending on the chosen departure date. To view a specific departure itinerary, simply click on the "Browse Detailed Itinerary" button above and select your date.

Day 1

Arrive in Naples
Welcome to Italy! The Southern coast of Italy offers a diverse geography of beautiful coastal seascapes and towering volcanic mountains.

During your adventure, you’ll get to know your expert Italian guide who will lead you and help you explore life along the southern coast. You will also be accompanied by an AdventureWomen Ambassador, who is committed to making your experience a fun and rewarding one while cheering you on as you stretch beyond your comfort zone to take on new challenges in your own way!

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

Check into your hotel and take some time to relax before dinner tonight.

Enjoy a lively welcome dinner at a local restaurant as you get to know your fellow travelers this evening. Share stories and learn about why each woman on your trip is excited to explore this beautiful region of Italy!

Dinner

Overnight: Grand Hotel Santa Lucia

Day 2

Naples
In the morning, join your local neapolitan guide for a walking tour of downtown Naples and learn about the history of the art and architecture of the city. Along the way, you will visit the San Carlo Theater and the striking Sansevero Chapel, which is home to Cristo Velato, an incredibly beautiful marble statue.

Meet a local woman entrepreneur in the art of jewelry crafting, belonging to a dynasty of goldsmith starting from early 1800.

Following lunch as a group, visit Naples Archaeological Museum (MANN), one of the most important museums for the abundance and uniqueness of its heritage and for the contribution it offered the European cultural survey.

Enjoy dinner on your own this evening.

Walking/Hiking Information 4-5 hours, 5 miles of city walking

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Grand Hotel Santa Lucia

Day 3

Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius
Hike the trail to the crater of Vesuvius National Park, where you will enjoy the volcano’s majesty and the amazing views of the entire Gulf of Naples.

After your hike, proceed to a winery at the base of Mt. Vesuvius for a delicious lunch where each course will be paired with a specific local wine.

Explore Pompeii, one of the world’s most fascinating archeological sites, which was both destroyed and preserved by the catastrophic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius.

What visit to Italy would be complete without enjoying a slice of pizza? Enjoy dinner with the group at a local pizzeria in Naples tonight.

Walking/Hiking Information 3 hours, 3 miles, 600 ft elevation gain, 750 ft elevation descent, dirt and gravel terrain

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Grand Hotel Santa Lucia

Day 4

Path of the Gods and Positano
Drive to the Amalfi Coast and Agerola. From Agerola, take the breathtaking “Path of the Gods”, a journey back in time to the glories of ancient Greece. The panoramic trail is interrupted by glimpses into the local way of life, passing shepherds huts and ancient stone houses carved into the limestone. Stop for lunch in Nocelle, before descending to colorful Positano.

While in Positano, take some time to leisurely explore the village before returning to Naples.

Enjoy dinner on your own this evening.

Walking/Hiking Information 4 hours, 5.5 miles, 150 ft elevation gain, 2000 ft elevation descent, dirt and gravel terrain

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Grand Hotel Santa Lucia

Day 5

Capri
Today, you will take a ferry ride to the fabled island of Capri. Hike along trails to the largest and most opulent of Tiberius’ twelve villas on the island, Villa Lysis. Walk through Mediterranean vegetation, with the scent of oak and myrtle permeating the air while you take in vast views of the mainland and the Faraglioni, three towering rock formations just off the coast.

Enjoy a merenda (small bites in the afternoon) today in a local home before you return to Naples.

After returning to Naples, you will board the overnight ferry for Lipari.

Tonight’s dinner is on your own in the ferry cafeteria.

Walking/Hiking Information 3 hours, 5 miles, 850 ft elevation gain, 850 ft elevation descent, pavement and sidewalks

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Overnight Ferry

Day 6

Naples to the Aeolian Archipelago
If you are hungry before making landfall, you can have breakfast on your own in the ferry cafeteria this morning. Otherwise, you can wait to enjoy a quick group breakfast in a cafe upon arrival to the island.

After breakfast, visit the archeological museum which is tucked inside Lipari Castle on the island’s eastern bay between Marina Lunga and Marina Corta. Be sure to take in the Greek acropolis and the Norman cathedral on the island.

After a lunch of local fish, you will continue on to Panarea, the only car-free island of the archipelago. Check into your hotel before dinner.

Have dinner as a group this evening.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Lisca Bianca

Day 7

Aeolian Archipelago: Vulcano-Panarea
Take a private boat to Vulcano this morning where you will disembark and hike to the top of the island. From this vantage point, it is possible to observe numerous volcanic phenomena, including smoke clouds, vapor spouts, and sulphuric mud holes known for their therapeutic properties.

Enjoy a light lunch at a local cheese farm, to savor the locally produced goat cheese and the homemade cannoli!

Return to your hotel and take the afternoon to relax, explore the village on your own, venture to the beach, or hike the island on your own.

Enjoy dinner as a group tonight.

Walking/Hiking Information 2 hours, 3 miles, 1250 ft elevation gain, 1250 ft elevation descent, dirt, gravel, and sand terrain

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Lisca Bianca

Day 8

Aeolian Archipelago: Panarea-Stromboli
Savor a leisurely day in Panarea, with the option to embark on a scenic walk to two captivating beaches. You’ll be responsible for your own lunch today.

This evening, board a private boat to Stromboli. The most active volcano in Europe, Stromboli has been erupting for at least 2,000 years at intervals of approximately 15 minutes, and the lava flows all the way down to the sea. After dusk, the boat approaches the “Sciara del Fuoco” to admire the natural spectacle of volcanic activity, the characteristic vertical eruptions with impressive explosions of incandescent magma. Enjoy the show while having dinner aboard. Return to Panarea for the night.

Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Lisca Bianca

Day 9

Aeolian Archipelago to Catania
After breakfast today, you will embark a boat bound for Milazzo, a picturesque Sicilian village.

Upon disembarking, drive to Catania, which is cradled amidst the splendid greenery of the surroundings while opening out to the sea. Catania is known for its grand piazzas, wide roads, and architecture made of volcanic rock.

After a lunch on your own in one of the city’s many local restaurants, meet your local guide for a walking tour of the city center. Admire the scenic Piazza Duomo with the famous Fountain of the Elephant, the Cathedral of St. Agatha, the city’s patron saint, and Piazza Stesicoro, from which you can admire the striking ruins of the amphitheater.

Continue towards the Mount Etna Natural Park. Stop at a local winery to meet the owner, taste his fabulous wines.

Head to your accommodation for the next two nights on the slopes of Mt. Etna. Following check-in, enjoy dinner with your group at a winery near Mount Etna.

Walking/Hiking Information 1 hour, 3 miles of city walking

Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight: Il Picciolo Etna Resort

Day 10

Catania
Today you will visit Europe’s largest active volcano, Mt. Etna. This towering mountain dominates the skyline of eastern Sicily. You will start your walk at Rifugia Sapienza, which is at 6,000 feet above sea level. Hike among cinder cones and extinct craters over this desolate expanse of the upper portion of Mt. Etna. A spectacular panoramic view of the coast awaits you.

In the afternoon, if weather and volcanic conditions allow, you will take 4×4 Jeeps up to 9,500 feet and then continue on foot to 11,000 feet above sea level.

Stop at a winery on the slopes of this legendary volcano. Meet the owner and sample some of his delectable wines before driving back to your farmhouse.

Spend tonight’s festive farewell dinner celebrating all the incredible sights and amazing accomplishments you experienced with your traveling companions during your time in Italy.

Walking/Hiking Information 3-4 hours, 6 miles, 1,500 ft elevation gain and loss, dirt, gravel, and sand terrain

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Il Picciolo Etna Resort

Day 11

Depart Catania
Say goodbye to your new AdventureWomen friends.

A group transfer to the airport will be provided when most guests depart (exact time to be determined). Private transfers at different times can be arranged for an extra charge.

Depart Catania, Italy (CTA) any time after 12:00PM today

Breakfast

Please note: AdventureWomen will attempt to adhere to the itinerary as much as possible. However, certain conditions (political, climatic, environmental, and cultural) may necessitate changes in the itinerary. AdventureWomen reserves the right to alter any itinerary at any time, if necessary. We will attempt to notify participants of changes as far in advance as possible. Costs incurred by such changes will be the responsibility of the participants.

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686

Traveling to Italy



Arrival and Departure Information

September 5, 2025 Departure

Arrive: Arrive at Naples International Airport (NAP) on September 5 before 3:00PM.

Depart: Depart Catania Airport (CTA) on September 15, 2023 after 12:00PM.

We are happy to help you make your flight and travel arrangements. If you’d like to do anything prior to or following the AdventureWomen trip, we’d be delighted to help you arrange any trip extensions you’re interested in.

Note: The recent trend in travel is for travelers to finalize their plans much closer to departure time than was customary in the past. While we try to be as flexible as possible booking last-minute registrants, we must release hotel rooms two to three months prior to departure! Please keep this in mind when making your travel plans.

Preparation and Packing  

Please use the following guides as a reference when preparing for your adventure. We also encourage you to adapt the guides to your travel style as well as the destination’s forecasted weather.  

Gratuities  

Gratuities are a personal decision and are at your own discretion based on your level of satisfaction with the service provided. Gratuities are dependent upon the number of guests on your departure, and they vary greatly from trip to trip. As a general reference, AdventureWomen suggests you plan for 55-110 EUR (or more) worth of gratuities for this adventure. Specific tipping recommendations for your trip will be provided to you closer to your departure date and may fluctuate due to inflation, exchange rates, and the number of travelers on your trip. 

Passports and Visas

Citizens of the United States must have a passport valid for six months beyond your travel dates with at least two blank facing pages. If you do not have a passport, please apply now!

Activity Level

We rate this trip as High Energy. Our High Energy 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 rolling terrain, hiking 5-8 miles on moderate to steep trails, being active at high altitudes, or skiing. Please note that this is a general description of what you might encounter; for specific details about your trip, please consult the itinerary.

We recommend training before your trip (with your doctor’s permission) to make the most of your adventure. With this itinerary in mind, we have a partnership with Trailblazer Wellness, a woman-owned, women-run company that will design an individualized fitness plan just for you! Best of all, AdventureWomen guests get a 10% discount with the code AVW. Learn more on the Trailblazer Wellness website.

Health Considerations

Make an appointment with a travel clinic, as they may have recommendations for vaccines and medications based on the destination as well as your age, health, and past vaccination history.

For more health information, go to www.cdc.gov/travel and navigate to the page about Italy.

How to Register

Call the AdventureWomen office at (800) 804-8686 to determine space availability and register for this trip. We can complete your registration, including taking your credit card deposit over the phone.

If you prefer, you can register online by clicking “Sign Up for this Trip” on the trip page.

Please be sure to read the AdventureWomen policies before registering!

Forms and Final Payment

The deposit for this trip is $800. You can transfer your deposit to another trip with no additional fee if you notify us within 120 days of the original trip departure date. We can hold your deposit for up to six months as a credit. Failure to book a new trip within this timeframe will result in the forfeiture of your deposit.

Once you book, you will need to fill out and return to AdventureWomen:

  • Information Form
  • Booking Conditions Form
  • Copy of Flight Information
  • Copy of Issuing Page of Passport (Photo Page)
  • Supplement Health and Safety Form

Final payment is due to AdventureWomen in a cash form (check, money order, or wire transfer). A maximum of $1,500 per person can be put on a credit card, which includes your deposit.

September 5, 2025 Departure Final Payment Due Date: June 7, 2025

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686

What's Included

Included

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

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

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686

Accommodations

The 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: Soap, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer, air conditioning, safe, WiFi

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

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: Soap, shampoo, conditioner, WiFi

l 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: Soap, shampoo, hair dryer, air conditioning, WiFi

 

 

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686