A road trip through Southern Italy

Panoramic coastal roads, cliffside villages, centuries-old cities, and hidden corners where time seems to stand still. Southern Italy is home to some of the Mediterranean’s most captivating landscapes, and a road trip is the perfect way to experience them.

Amalfi Coast: First stop

The Amalfi Coast is one of Southern Italy’s most iconic destinations. A journey through dramatic cliffs, picturesque seaside villages, and breathtaking coastal roads, where every stop reveals new landscapes, flavours, and hidden gems. Although it is one of Italy’s most visited regions, its beauty, distinctive character, and remarkable variety of experiences make every mile of the journey worthwhile. 

What to do

• Discover the Fiordo di Furore – a hidden cove nestled between dramatic cliffs.
• Drive the scenic coastal road between Positano and Amalfi – with spectacular Mediterranean views.
• Spend a morning at Petramare Spa – a relaxing wellness experience overlooking the sea.
• Visit Ravello – renowned for its historic villas and magnificent gardens.
• Explore the Amalfi Coast by boat – discovering secluded coves and picturesque villages perched above the sea.

What to try

• Delizia al Limone – the region's most iconic lemon dessert.
• Dinner at Bluh Furore – a Michelin-starred restaurant celebrated for its seasonal Mediterranean cuisine.
• Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare – the Amalfi Coast's traditional fresh seafood pasta.
• A cocktail at Ria Lounge Bar – accompanied by breathtaking sunset views and live music.

Where to stay

• Furore Grand Hotel

Built into the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, Furore Grand Hotel offers a stay where the landscape takes centre stage. Arranged across eleven cascading levels, every space opens onto the sea, creating a constant connection with its spectacular surroundings. Its panoramic sea-view rooms and refined contemporary design make it the perfect base for discovering the Amalfi Coast.

Cilento Coast: Second stop

Quieter and lesser known than the Amalfi Coast, the Cilento Coast preserves an authentic character shaped by charming fishing villages, crystal-clear beaches, and protected natural landscapes, revealing a more tranquil side of the Italian Mediterranean. An ideal destination for those seeking nature, the sea, and exceptional gastronomy away from the busiest tourist routes.

What to do

• Explore the sea caves and go snorkelling – in some of Campania’s clearest waters.
• Visit the Paestum Archaeological Park – home to one of the world’s best-preserved collections of ancient Greek temples.
• Discover Castellabate – one of the Cilento Coast’s most beautiful medieval villages.
• Watch the sunset from Acciaroli – a charming fishing village with an authentic local atmosphere.
• Spend the day at Beach Club 93 – enjoying Paestum’s beach in an exclusive setting.

What to try

• Dine at Tre Olivi – a Michelin-starred restaurant celebrating the Mediterranean Diet through seasonal cuisine and locally sourced ingredients.
• Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP – one of the region’s most iconic culinary specialities.
• Alici di Menaica – anchovies prepared using a traditional fishing method unique to the area.
• Fusilli Cilentani – handmade fresh pasta typical of the Cilento region.
• Fichi Bianchi del Cilento – the area's renowned white figs.

Where to stay

• Esplanade Boutique Hotel

Surrounded by Mediterranean gardens and set between the Paestum pine forest and the sea, Esplanade Boutique Hotel offers a peaceful setting designed for relaxation. Its elegant design, proximity to both the beach and the Paestum Archaeological Park, together with its outstanding dining and wellness facilities, make it an excellent base for exploring the Cilento Coast.

Sicily: Third stop

Sicily is a land of contrasts, where crystal-clear beaches, centuries-old towns, and an exceptional culinary tradition make every stop a different experience. Reaching the island is part of the adventure itself: crossing the Strait of Messina by ferry adds a memorable touch to the journey before discovering the largest island in the Mediterranean.

What to do

• Explore the Zingaro Nature Reserve – following scenic trails and discovering secluded turquoise coves.
• Relax on the beaches of San Vito Lo Capo – considered among the most beautiful in Italy.
• Stroll through Erice – a medieval hilltop town with panoramic coastal views.
• Watch the sunset over the Marsala Salt Pans – surrounded by historic windmills and shimmering salt flats.
• Discover Scopello – famous for its historic tuna fishery and dramatic sea stacks.
• Visit the Segesta Archaeological Park – home to one of Sicily’s best-preserved archaeological sites.

What to try

• Arancina – one of Sicily’s most iconic culinary specialities.
• Pasta alla Norma – prepared with aubergine, tomato, and salted ricotta.
• Couscous di Pesce – a traditional fish couscous reflecting Sicily’s Arab heritage.
• Cannolo Siciliano – the island’s most celebrated dessert.

Where to stay

• Alkamuri Posh Hotel

Housed in a beautifully restored former industrial building, Alkamuri Posh Hotel reimagines contemporary hospitality in the heart of Alcamo. Its spacious suites, thoughtfully designed interiors, and dedicated wellness centre create the perfect balance of comfort and relaxation, making it an excellent base for exploring Sicily.

Matera: Fourth stop

Matera captivates from the very first moment. Considered one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, its famous Sassi – ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock – create a unique landscape that has earned the city UNESCO World Heritage status. Its timeless beauty has also made it the setting for numerous acclaimed films, including Jesus Christ Superstar, The Passion of the Christ, and No Time to Die.

What to do

• Explore the Sassi di Matera – the city's most iconic historic district.
• Visit the rock-hewn churches – carved into the stone and adorned with centuries-old frescoes.
• Enjoy an aperitif at Quarry Lounge Bar – with privileged views over the Sassi di Matera.
• Discover Matera's famous film locations – featured in Jesus Christ Superstar, The Passion of the Christ, and No Time to Die.
• Wander through the narrow streets at sunset – when the city reveals its most enchanting atmosphere.

What to try

• Dinner at Qarsa – a unique dining experience between a terrace overlooking the Sassi and a dining room carved into the rock.
• Pane di Matera IGP – the region's traditional sourdough bread.
• Cialledda – a local salad prepared with bread, tomatoes, and olive oil.
• Orecchiette – one of Southern Italy's most iconic pasta varieties.
• Aglianico del Vulture DOC – one of Basilicata's most celebrated wines.

Where to stay

• BV Quarry Matera

Located in the heart of the Sassi di Matera, BV Quarry Matera occupies the historic Palazzo Zicari, a beautifully restored residence that preserves the essence of this extraordinary landscape. Its rooms, created within spaces that were once ancient caves, combine the authenticity of the setting with the comfort of a five-star hotel, offering an exceptional way to experience the city's most iconic district.

Puglia: Final stop

Puglia provides the perfect finale to this road trip through Southern Italy, with a landscape of crystal-clear beaches, whitewashed villages, and centuries-old olive groves. Bordered by both the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, the region invites travellers to discover the true Mediterranean lifestyle through its rich heritage, exceptional gastronomy, and an unhurried pace of travel.

What to do

• Visit an underground olive oil mill – to discover Puglia’s olive-growing heritage and enjoy an olive oil tasting.
• Relax on the beaches of Otranto – with turquoise waters and beautiful secluded coves.
• Stroll through Alberobello – discovering its iconic trulli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit Santa Maria di Leuca – where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet.
• Explore the ancient olive groves of Salento – a symbol of Puglia’s landscape and traditions.
• Wander through Otranto’s historic centre – with its cathedral, castle, and charming stone streets.

What to taste

• Lunch at Il Tòmolo – a dining experience inspired by the flavours and local produce of the region.
• Taralli – Puglia’s most iconic savoury snack.
• Extra virgin olive oil – produced from the region’s centuries-old olive groves.
• Orecchiette – Puglia’s signature pasta.
• Pasticciotto Leccese – a traditional custard-filled pastry.

Where to stay

• Borgo Mulino a Vento

Surrounded by the natural beauty of Salento and just a few minutes from the Adriatic coast, Borgo Mulino a Vento provides the perfect setting for discovering Puglia at a relaxed pace. Its lush gardens, swimming pool, wellness facilities, and excellent location make it the ideal base for exploring some of the region’s most beautiful destinations.

This journey can also become the perfect gift. With the Domus Selecta Gift Card, you can discover these charming hotels and enjoy unforgettable stays that will be remembered long after the journey comes to an end.