After great deliberation, I've ditched any thoughts of Provence. 2 years without a visit to Italy is enough. In answering another poster here, I looked at the schedule for Carnevale 2017 and the opening weekend events (February 11-12) look like fun, with water parades Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon. That leaves me with up to 10 days to explore the south.
I've been to Sorrento, Ercolano and Pompeii. I think I'd like some time in Naples and I would not be averse to spending a couple of days in Rome (flying out of FCO on an evening flight), but that's low priority.
So I need an itinerary. Since it's winter, I'm not expecting great scenery. I would like to get to Paestum. Are the Amalfi Coast towns worth visiting? I did very much enjoy Sorrento. I'm open to renting a car.