Southern Italy: Rome, Naples & Puglia

Welcome to Rome, one of the world’s most charismatic capitals. Steeped in 2,500 years of history and culture, it’s an extraordinary tumble of haunting Roman ruins, iconic art-filled churches and vibrant modern street life that doesn’t disappoint. At the airport you’ll be met by a Flash Pack driver who will transfer you to your hotel in the heart of the historic centre. There’ll be time to freshen up before meeting your group and heading out for a delicious rooftop dinner. 

Get ready to immerse yourself in the food, wine and culture of one of the world’s most incredible cities. First up, you’ll discover Rome’s Jewish quarter, an atmospheric area of ancient squares, cobbled streets and medieval markets studded with kosher bakeries and sunny pavement trattorias. You’ll learn about the ghetto’s fascinating history, stopping to sample sweet treats and traditional Jewish fare. The afternoon is yours to explore the Eternal City at leisure. Visit the ancient Pantheon temple dedicated to the Roman gods, toss a coin into the iconic Trevi Fountain and take a breather on the gleaming Spanish Steps – an ideal spot for people-watching. Note: you’ll need to buy entry tickets well in advance for the most famous sights, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum and the Vatican Museums.

After breakfast, you’ll speed south on a Freccia train to Naples, a journey that takes around 1.5 hours. On arrival, you’ll head straight to the region’s most compelling archaeological site: the ruined city of Pompeii. This thriving Roman trading port was destroyed almost in an instant when Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD79, burying the buildings under metres of volcanic debris. The excavated ruins are now a treasure trove of history frozen in time, which your expert guide will bring to life through fascinating details and stories. Later, you’ll unwind at an organic vineyard on the slopes of the notorious volcano. Spend an afternoon tasting regional wines, including the Lacryma Christi varietal.

Start your day with a walking tour of elegant Naples. Wrapped around a deep blue bay, you’ll find two royal palaces, three castles, and a host of beautiful buildings housing artistic treasures. Follow your guide through the Unesco old town, a maze of narrow streets lined with ancient churches, courtyards and family-run boutiques. Naples takes its shopping seriously – and its food even more so. Along the way, you’ll stop off at chic cafes and delis to sample delicious Neapolitan dishes, such as frittata di pasta and arancini, expertly made from secret recipes passed down through the generations. This afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy. Limoncello by the seafront, anyone? 

Today, you’ll travel onwards to Puglia – the bucolic region that forms the heel of Italy’s boot. Blessed with quaint hill towns, age-old farmland dotted with olive groves and conical trulli houses, it’s a deeply traditional area best explored at an unhurried pace. Arriving at the charming seaside village of Polignano a Mare, set in a craggy ravine, you’ll board a private boat and set off to explore the hidden sea grottoes that pockmark the dramatic cliffs. Cruising at a gentle pace, a glass of crisp prosecco in hand, you’ll drop anchor in sheltered bays to swim in the aquamarine water. Back on dry land, relax at your boutique hotel or take a balmy evening stroll through the cute winding streets, grabbing a gelato from one of the piazzas.

Your final day has been left free for you to bask on Puglia’s beautiful beaches. After a leisurely breakfast, you’ll have the option to visit one of the many sunkissed spots that dot the stunning Adriatic coast. From the shallow water of Lido Morelli, near a natural reserve, to the hot springs of Torre Canne or the lively hamlet of Capitolo, spend an idyllic day alternating between the warm golden sand and the gently lapping waves. After all, when else do you get time to lie back, read and gaze at such a stunning view? Tonight, you’ll be heading out to enjoy a final feast with your group. Raise a glass of Italy’s finest to an incredible week of indulgence. 

Your trip has come to an end and it’s time to say your goodbye to your group. Together, you’ve experienced the true highlights of southern Italy and formed memories to last a lifetime. After checking out of your hotel, a Flash Pack group transfer will drop you at Bari Airport for your flight back home. Or, for a longer adventure, why not combine this trip with our Northern Italy tour?