Southern Italy

What is Southern Italy Most Famous For?

Southern Italy is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Here are some of the things for which Southern Italy is most famous:

1. Ancient Ruins: Southern Italy is home to several ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including the iconic Pompeii and Herculaneum near Naples, which were preserved by the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The Greek temples in Paestum and the Roman amphitheater in Taormina, Sicily, are also major attractions.

2. Beautiful Coastlines: Southern Italy boasts some of the most picturesque coastlines in the country. The Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, colorful fishing villages, and crystal-clear waters, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other stunning coastal areas include the rugged coastline of Calabria, the white beaches of Puglia, and the volcanic Aeolian Islands off the coast of Sicily.

3. Historical Cities: Southern Italy is home to several historic cities that showcase a mix of architectural styles and influences. Naples, the largest city in Southern Italy, is famous for its vibrant street life, historical center, and the nearby Mount Vesuvius. Other notable cities include Bari, Palermo, Catania, and Lecce, each with its own unique charm and historical landmarks.

4. Mouthwatering Cuisine: Southern Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its flavors and variety. It is known for dishes such as pizza, pasta, fresh seafood, and gelato. Each region in the south has its own culinary specialties. For example, Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and Puglia is famous for its orecchiette pasta and olive oil.

5. Festivals and Traditions: Southern Italy is known for its vibrant festivals and traditional celebrations. One of the most famous is the Carnival of Venice in February, where locals and tourists alike dress in elaborate costumes and masks. In addition, religious processions and events, such as the Holy Week processions in Sicily and the Festa dei Gigli in Nola, near Naples, are deeply rooted in Southern Italian culture.

6. Natural Beauty: Southern Italy offers diverse and breathtaking landscapes. From the rugged mountains of the Apennines to the fertile valleys of Campania and the rolling hills of Puglia, the region is a nature lover's paradise. The Vesuvius National Park, the Pollino National Park, and the beautiful beaches of Calabria and Sicily are just a few examples of the natural wonders found in Southern Italy.

These are just a few highlights of what Southern Italy is most famous for. The region offers a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and culinary delights that continue to captivate visitors from around the world. 

Lonely Planet Southern Italy (Travel Guide)

Southern Italy Travel Guide Tours and Things to Do

What to do in Southern Italy?

7-day itinerary To Southern Italy and its surroundings and Local food and wine specialties.

Giuseppe Baldassarri reviews the best places in Italy.

Here are some of the top attractions you might consider visiting:

Here's a suggested 7-day itinerary to explore Southern Italy and its surroundings, along with some local food and wine specialties to try along the way:

Day 1: Naples

- Arrive in Naples and explore the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

- Try the famous Neapolitan pizza at Pizzeria Da Michele or Sorbillo, and indulge in sfogliatelle pastries.

- Sample local wines such as Lacryma Christi and Greco di Tufo.

Day 2: Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast

- Take a day trip to Pompeii to explore the ancient ruins buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

- Head to the stunning Amalfi Coast and visit Positano and Amalfi.

- Enjoy fresh seafood dishes like spaghetti alle vongole (clams) and try limoncello, a lemon liqueur made from local Amalfi Coast lemons.

Day 3: Matera and Puglia

- Travel to Matera in the neighboring region of Basilicata, known for its ancient cave dwellings (Sassi di Matera), a UNESCO World Heritage site.

- Continue to Puglia and visit the charming town of Alberobello, famous for its Trulli houses.

- Savor Puglian cuisine, including orecchiette pasta with tomato sauce, burrata cheese, and local wines like Primitivo and Negroamaro.

Day 4: Lecce and Salento

- Explore the Baroque architecture of Lecce, often called the "Florence of the South."

- Visit the beautiful coastal towns of Otranto and Gallipoli in the Salento region.

- Sample local delicacies such as rustico leccese (a savory pastry) and try Salice Salentino wines.

Day 5: Sicily and Mount Etna

- Take a flight or ferry to Sicily and visit the vibrant city of Catania.

- Explore Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, and enjoy wine tasting at vineyards on the slopes.

- Indulge in Sicilian cuisine, including arancini (rice balls), cannoli, and pasta alla Norma.

Day 6: Palermo and Agrigento

- Travel to Palermo, the capital of Sicily, and explore its historic sites and colorful markets.

- Visit the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

- Try Sicilian street food specialties like panelle (chickpea fritters) and sample Marsala wine.

Day 7: Taormina and Taormina Coastline

- Explore the charming town of Taormina with its Greek theater and stunning views of the coast.

- Relax on the beautiful beaches of the Taormina Coastline.

- Enjoy Sicilian seafood dishes such as swordfish involtini and granita (a refreshing dessert).

Please note that this itinerary provides a general overview and can be customized based on your preferences and the time you have available. It's always a good idea to check the opening hours and availability of attractions and restaurants in advance. 

Here are some of his reviews of the best attractions that you can book:

Southern Italy: where to stay?

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