My daughter (21) and I (57) are flying into Rome on Nov. 24 and flying out of Naples Dec. 6 (12 days to travel). Wondering how you all would split up our time and if you recommend doing any of the Amalfi Coast at that time of year? Where? We like culture, good food, getting to meet locals, hiking - we're pretty open! We're not planning on renting a car - we'll use public transport. Any must sees we should make sure not to miss?! Any suggestions are most welcome!
Posted by
32 posts
This sounds like an amazing trip to do with your daughter. I'm about the same age as you and love these trips with my grown son. I'll be in Italy in mid-November so I'm interested in what others have to recommend. Here are my thoughts:
Please visit Florence if you haven't already. It's magical. It's a very short train ride from Rome and you won't regret spending a couple days there. Climb to the top of the Duomo (read Brunelleschi's Dome: The Story of the Great Cathedral in Florence if you have the time--it's just fascinating) and go see Michaelangelo's David. Being there in the off-season means fewer tourists.
I am super excited about some AirB&B Experiences I have planned in Sorrento (visit to a family farm with home made meal, cooking class, wine tasting, hiking the Path of the Gods above the Amalfi Coast). These could be memorable experiences with your daughter and a chance to meet locals.
I will let others share their ideas about Rome, Pompeii, etc. But I would definitely carve out a couple days to see Florence.
I know you'll have an amazing time and create so many lasting memories with your daughter. Enjoy!
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
15267 posts
Rome: 4 nights
Florence: 4 nights (you might have time for a day trip or two to some Tuscan town from Florence)
Naples area: 4 nights
Since you are there, if the weather is good, I would visit the Amalfi Coast and Capri as well, in addition to Pompeii and Naples itself.
In terms of accommodations I would choose to stay either in Naples (if you prefer a big city) or Sorrento (if you prefer somewhere smaller). Just be aware that if your flight out of NAP is early in the morning, you might be better off to spend the last night in Naples. You could also stay in Sorrento, but in that case, for an early flight, you would need to hire a private car service (limo).
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11363 posts
The Amalfi Coast can be lovely at that time of year. Depends on weather and requires flexibility, but it seldom rains day-after-day, luckily. We have stayed in Sorrento and Ravello. LOVED the latter even in off-season (Nov/Dec is VERY off-season) but it is not a good base for doing Pompeii. Sorrento offers good flexibility in doing Pompeii, Naples for a day trip esp if it rains (museums), as well as the famous bus down the Amalfi Coast where you can take another bus up to Ravello for the views and Villa Cimbroen.
For me, Florence for 3 nights was enough. It is nice to be there off-season but one can only so so many museums. I crave outdoor spaces especially in nice weather.
You will need to have your last night in Naples as Roberto wisely advised.