A Guide to the Best Scenic Drives in Southern Italy
Southern Italy is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, charming coastal villages, and ancient history. While many visitors flock to the area’s famous cities, some unforgettable experiences come from simply driving through its stunning scenery. From dramatic cliffs and sparkling coastlines to rolling hills and charming countryside, Southern Italy offers a plethora of scenic drives that showcase the beauty of the region. Here’s how you can enjoy the best scenic drives in Southern Italy while having car service from Naples to Sorrento from us at Ravello Limousine Service.
Amalfi Coast Drive: A Mediterranean Jewel
One of the most iconic scenic drives in Italy is the Amalfi Coast. This breathtaking route hugs the cliffs of the Sorrentine Peninsula, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea below. Starting from the vibrant city of Salerno, the drive takes you through charming towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, each offering stunning vistas, colourful buildings, and lush greenery.
The Scenic Sassi of Matera
In the heart of Basilicata, the UNESCO-listed city of Matera is famous for its ancient cave dwellings, known as the Sassi. While exploring the city itself is an unforgettable experience, the drive to and from Matera offers spectacular views of the surrounding ravines and rugged landscapes.
The Cilento Coast: Tranquil Beauty Off the Beaten Path
For a quieter, more peaceful drive, the Cilento Coast offers stunning scenery without the crowds of the Amalfi Coast. Stretching from Salerno to the tip of the Cilento Peninsula, this route passes through lush forests, charming fishing villages, and pristine beaches.
The drive along the SS18 is particularly scenic, with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters. Highlights include the charming town of Acciaroli, the ancient ruins of Paestum, and the breathtaking natural beauty of the Cilento National Park.
The Gargano Peninsula: A Hidden Gem in Puglia
The Gargano Peninsula, located in the northeastern part of Puglia, offers one of the most picturesque and lesser-known scenic drives in Southern Italy. This drive takes you through the forests of the Gargano National Park, with views of rugged mountains and coastal cliffs that plunge into the Adriatic Sea.
The route from Vieste to Peschici is stunning, with winding roads through ancient olive groves and quaint villages. Along the way, you’ll also find hidden caves, crystal-clear beaches, and the iconic Monte Sant’Angelo, a medieval town perched on the edge of a mountain.
The Route of the Gods (Costiera dei Dei): A Hiker’s Dream
The Costiera dei Dei, or “Route of the Gods,” is a scenic drive through the rugged mountains of the Sorrento Peninsula, offering some of the most dramatic views in Southern Italy. This route starts in the town of Bomerano, near Agerola, and leads to Nocelle, near Positano, passing through cliffs and valleys dotted with Mediterranean vegetation.
While the road can be steep and winding, it offers unparalleled views of the coastline and the Amalfi Coast. For those seeking more adventure, the drive can be combined with hiking trails that offer even more breathtaking panoramas of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Southern Italy is a treasure trove of scenic drives, each offering unique landscapes and unforgettable views. Whether you’re cruising along the Amalfi Coast, exploring the hidden beauty of the Cilento Coast, or driving through the dramatic hills of Gargano, there’s no shortage of picturesque routes to explore. Have car services from us to enjoy this scenic trip.