Compare Cycle Cilento & the Amalfi Coast by Exodus Travels vs Apulia, the Heel of Italy by Cosmos
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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4 | Great
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| Duration | 8 days | 8 days |
| Price From | $ 2,490 | $ 1,629 |
| Price Per Day | $ 311 | $ 204 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | No |
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| Meals Included | All breakfasts and one dinner included. Breakfast is normally continental style with a choice of cereal, bread, pastries, yoghurt, orange juice and milk with an array of teas/coffee. Lunch usually consists of a light meal, such as a sandwich or a mix of delicious appetisers, in small traditional cafes along the route. The evening meals will be taken in a variety of local restaurants or at the hotels, where the standard is excellent. Most of the regional specialities in this area are prepared with delicious fresh produce such as tomatoes, olives, peppers and cheese. The Amalfi Coast also has some of the finest fish in the world; scialatielli ai frutti di mare (fresh ribbon-shaped pasta with seafood) is one of the staple dishes worth trying. The a la carte menus in most restaurants recommended by your local leader will give you an opportunity to sample a great range of local specialities. | N/A |
| Description |
Cycling is a great way to explore the stunning natural and cultural treasures of Campania. This tour takes us through the best routes and contrasts of the region, from the relatively unknown and unspoilt Cilento to the popular, lively Amalfi Coast. The Cilento National Park is largely undisturbed by modern life and as we cycle through quaint fishing villages, the traditions of the area are still evident. We also visit the Greco-Roman city of Paestum, with its three major doric temples, before heading to the lovely town of Minori on the Amalfi Coast. Here, we cycle on some of the most scenic routes in the world, while visiting beautiful towns including Positano and, of course, Amalfi itself. All the cycling will help to build our appetite for the fine food for which the area is renowned.Cycle from unspoilt Cilento to the Unesco-listed Amalfi Coast |
This regional affordable Italy discovery vacation begins and ends in Naples. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Naples provides visitors a wealth of folklore, history, and a rich culture of the ages. After a guided sightseeing tour of the city, you’ll be on your way to the Apulia region—the “heel of the boot” of Italy and one of the renowned holiday destinations of the Italian people thanks to its breathtaking landscapes and enchanting coastline with turquoise waters. Among the highlights of this Italy vacation you can look forward to the visit of the 13th-century Castel Del Monte on your way to the beautiful port of Bari. Unveil other surprising treasures, including the fascinating Castellana Grotte limestone caves, the conical-roofed Trulli houses of Alberobello, and Lecce’s Baroque architecture. You’ll also enjoy an excursion to Santa Maria di Leuca with its art nouveau beach huts, and Gallipoli’s underground olive press and winding streets. Your budget-minded vacation in Italy is never short on great food and drink, including the chance to learn about regional specialities on your visit to a Primitivo wine cellar in Manduria and an olive oil tasting session in the countryside. Before returning to Naples, relax for two nights in Fasano—surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Your affordable Italy tour of the Apulia region of Italy ends where it began—in Naples—where authentic Napoli pizza and espresso coffee await your return! |
Day 1 Start in Palinuro, on the southern coast of Cilento National Park
Welcome to Palinuro, a lively and picturesque village on the southern coast of Cilento (approximately three hours’ drive from Naples). Capo Palinuro is renowned for its outstanding natural beauty and impressive underwater caves. We gather at the hotel today for our first meeting; a great chance to get to know the group and tour leader. Accommodation: Hotel Santa Caterina (or similar)
Day 2 Cycle along the most unspoilt stretch of coastline in southern Italy, then inland to the Mingardo Canyon and abandoned village of San Severino
We start early in the morning with a scenic circular ride along the southern coast of Cilento National Park, the most unspoilt stretch of coastline in southern Italy, offering spectacular views of the Gulf of Policastro. We arrive in the lovely coastal town of Marina di Camerota for a short break and then climb inland to the village of San Giovanni a Piro. We cycle around the impressive Mount Bulgheria and to the Mingardo Canyon before making our way back to Palinuro.
Day 3 Ride to Capo Palinuro then to the medieval village of Pisciotta; descend to the coast and Casalvelino
From Marina di Camerota, we follow the beautiful coastline to the peninsula of Capo Palinuro to the medieval village of Pisciotta, known for producing delicious olive oil, which we will taste. From here we climb gently to the town of Ascea. En route back to the coast, we cycle past the ancient Greek settlement of Velia, which has an impressive arch from the fourth century BCE, before heading to the plain of Casalvelino, where we stay in a lovely agriturismo.
Day 4 Undulating ride through coastal villages; stop for lunch and optional swim; continue to Paestum with its ancient Greek ruins
Today we enjoy one of the finest rides in Italy as we leave the Casalvelino plain behind and cycle through picturesque coastal villages to Acciaroli, a favourite of Ernest Hemingway. We stop for lunch in Santa Maria di Castellabate, where there is the opportunity for a swim in the sea. In the afternoon we enjoy the final section of our route to Agropoli, a charming town overlooking the sea, and ride to our hotel, just a stone’s throw from the ancient Greek temples of Paestum.
Day 5 Train to Salerno; scenic ride to Minori, our base for the next three nights
This morning we have time to visit the well-preserved temples and amphitheatre of Paestum. We will also taste the celebrated buffalo mozzarella at lunch, before taking a train to Salerno, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. In the afternoon, we ride to Minori, one the most scenic coastal roads in the world. Along the way we stop in the fishing village of Cetara, known for delicious tuna and anchovies. We then continue to Capo d'Orso, offering breathtaking views over the Amalfi Coast and Capri. From here it's mainly downhill as we cycle past dramatic cliffs and lemon terraces to the coastal villages of Maiori and finally Minori, our base for the last three nights.
Day 6 Cycle along the Strada Amalfitana to Amalfi, Praiano and Positano; climb inland to the Colli di San Pietro for great views over the Bay of Naples; return to Minori via Amalfi
This morning we ride along the scenic coastal road to Amalfi, where we have time for a short stroll. The town has been popular with the British since Edwardian times, when the upper classes viewed the town as a pleasant place to spend their winters. The large cathedral dominates the town with its bright coloured tiles so typical of the region. We then continue to Furore, Praiano and on to Positano, a near-vertical town of colourful buildings. The route offers fantastic views of the whole peninsula, including the island of Capri. We then make a beautiful climb to the Colli di San Pietro, on the ridge between the Bay of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno. Time permitting, your leader may decide to extend this ride to Sorrento. There are several options for lunch, before we cycle back to Positano, Amalfi and finally Minori in time for the sunset.
Day 7 Free day to relax on the beach at Minori, visit Ravello and Amalfi, take a boat trip to Capri or visit Pompeii and Vesuvius.
A day off the bike to relax in Minori. Alternatively, you could take a guided walk to glorious Ravello, enjoy a boat trip to the island of Capri or visit the Unesco World Heritage sites of Pompeii and Vesuvius.
Day 8 End Minori
You’ve cycled the Amalfi Coast, tasted delicious regional cuisine and clocked an impressive number of miles on the saddle. This morning, however, there’s time for a final breakfast of the holiday before beginning your return journey home.
Day 1: ARRIVE IN NAPLES, ITALY
Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free to start exploring Naples, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and travel companions. (Dinner)
Day 2: NAPLES–CASTEL DEL MONTE–BARI
The guided sightseeing tour this morning gives you an introduction to the eventful history of this city and its vibrant traditions. Depart Naples and travel into Apulia, the legendary “heel” of Italy. Stop to visit Castel del Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 13th century by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, and renowned for its unique octagonal shape. Continue to the Adriatic coastline for an orientation tour of the beautiful port city of Bari. Today’s Distance: 177 mi/ 285 km (Breakfast)
Day 3: BARI–CASTELLANA GROTTE–ALBEROBELLO–LECCE
Experience the famous limestone caves of Castellana Grotte. This impressive system is a wonderland of captivating stalactites, stalagmites, and crystallized mineral deposits. Next stop is Alberobello, renowned for its distinct conical-roofed “Trulli” houses. Follow the coastline to lovely Lecce, the “Florence of the South.” Today’s Distance: 107 mi/ 173 km (Breakfast)
Day 4: LECCE. EXCURSION TO SANTA MARIA DI LEUCA & GALLIPOLI
On your included excursion to Santa Maria di Leuca, the southernmost tip of Apulia, discover art nouveau villas and beach huts from the early 20th century. On to Gallipoli, an ancient Greek city built on an island in the Ionian Sea. Enjoy the Old Town with its quaint ambiance, winding streets, and inviting squares. Discover Frantoio Ipogeo, an underground olive press buried in the tufa rock. Between the 16th and 19th centuries, workers pressed Gallipoli’s olive oil, and used it to light the city’s oil lamps. Return to Lecce. Time to marvel at its opulent Baroque buildings. Today’s Distance: 106 mi/ 170 km (Breakfast)
Day 5: LECCE–MANDURIA–OSTUNI–FASANO
On to Manduria, situated in the rural wine-growing region. Visit a wine cellar and get to taste some of the typical Primitivo wine. Next stop is Ostuni, only 42 miles from Greece, characterized by its flat-roofed, white, Greek-looking town centre. Overnight in Fasano, a peaceful town surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, not far from the Adriatic Sea. Today’s Distance: 75 mi/ 120 km (Breakfast,Dinner)
Day 6: FASANO
Today is free to do as you like. Maybe join the optional excursion to Matera and Altamura. The impressive “rock city” of Matera is home to the prehistoric sassi cave dwellings, while a guided tour of Altamura reveals the amazing stone-clad city, with free time afterwards to stroll through the Old Town on your own. (Breakfast,Dinner)
Day 7: FASANO–NAPLES
Puglia is famous for its olive trees and, this morning, you’ll visit a traditional olive mill. Taste some genuine olive oil, enjoy a light lunch, and stroll around the groves. Later, travel back to Naples for a chance to treat yourself to a real espresso coffee shot or the most authentic pizza. Today’s Distance: 199 mi/ 320 km (Breakfast,Lunch)
Day 8: NAPLES
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)
