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Italy: The Bay of Naples

The Islands of Amalfi Walk

Trip code: W07IN

Average customer rating 4.7 / 5(15 verified reviews)

Self-Guided Walking
7 nights twin centre
Demanding
Flights available
CO₂ rating 1/5
Headwater Navigation app

Trip highlights

Island hopping in the spectacular Gulf of Naples: Ischia, Capri and Procida

Enchanting Ischia, the ‘Green Island’ – spas and thermal waters, pretty beaches, bustling marinas

Stunning Capri – elegant Capri town, Roman villas, sleepy coves, imposing sea stacks

Panoramic Procida – vibrant fishing villages, unspoilt nature reserves, ancient walled citadels

All walks are optional with plenty of time to discover each destination

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Trip details

The beauty of the Bay of Naples has been enchanting travellers for centuries, with visitors falling in love with its dramatic coastline, glimmering seas, and pastel-coloured towns. Off the peninsula’s immaculate shores, lie the beautiful yet diverse islands of Amalfi: Ischia, Capri and Procida. This 7 night self-guided walking holiday takes you on a discovery of these stunning isles, with the option to extend your time in the area in bustling Sorrento or cosmopolitan Naples.

What's included

Included

  • 7 nights in 3-star accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Headwater navigation app
  • Return luggage transfers between the hotel and the port on Ischia and Capri

Not included

  • Flights
  • Travel insurance

Travel options

Flights

Our air prices include standard flights and transfers.

Itinerary

Route map, with each night's stop marked
The full route, night by night. Select the map to view it full screen.

Day 1 · —Travel to Ischia

Travel to Ischia

From Naples port, take the hydrofoil to the island of Ischia. We meet you at Ischia port and take you to your comfortable 3* hotel housed in a former monastery within the walls of Ischia’s ancient castle. This Aragonese stronghold sits on a rocky outcrop gazing out to sea and is accessed via a scenic causeway.

You stay at Albergo il Monastero

Il Monastero Hotel, Ischia
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Albergo il Monastero

Ischia

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Safe
  • Television
  • Wifi access

Albergo il Monastero can be found in Ischia’s 16th century monastery housed within the town’s panoramic castle. Perched on la Rocca, a small rocky island linked to the main island by a bridge, it’s wonderfully tranquil with colourful gardens where vegetables are also grown, but within easy walking distance of the bars, restaurants and shops in Ischia Town. There is a stunning terrace here where you can enjoy breakfast and dinner over the summer months, and which boasts a gorgeous view of the village of Ischia Ponte, the beach and glittering seas. Headwater customers are upgraded to the sea view rooms at this hotel.

Day 2 · 13km/8.1miIschia's South Coast

Ischia's South Coast

Head south today for a panoramic walk along a steep cliff enjoying stunning views over the Bay of Naples and Capri. Pass through terraced vineyards and traditional hamlets before a descent to the golden sands of Marina dei Maronti. Treat yourself to a dip in the natural thermal waters of Cavascura, which date back to Roman times, before a leisurely walk along the beach takes you to the charming fishing village of Sant’Angelo and your bus back to the hotel.

Elevation

Ischia's South Coast elevation profile

You stay at Albergo il Monastero

Il Monastero Hotel, Ischia
Image 1 of 5

Albergo il Monastero

Ischia

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Safe
  • Television
  • Wifi access

Albergo il Monastero can be found in Ischia’s 16th century monastery housed within the town’s panoramic castle. Perched on la Rocca, a small rocky island linked to the main island by a bridge, it’s wonderfully tranquil with colourful gardens where vegetables are also grown, but within easy walking distance of the bars, restaurants and shops in Ischia Town. There is a stunning terrace here where you can enjoy breakfast and dinner over the summer months, and which boasts a gorgeous view of the village of Ischia Ponte, the beach and glittering seas. Headwater customers are upgraded to the sea view rooms at this hotel.

Day 3 · 13km/8.1miMonte Epomeo

Monte Epomeo

Today you discover Ischia’s two highest mountains – Monte Epomeo at 789m, and Capo dell’Uomo (721m). A short bus ride onto the mountain slopes takes the sting out the tail of the ascent, so you continue along gentle paths to Epomeo’s summit, and are rewarded with far reaching vistas of the entire Bay of Naples. Descend through lush forest and fertile vineyards, passing ancient hermit dwellings carved from the mountain rock, to the town of Forio on Ischia’s western shores. Return to Ischia Town by bus.

Elevation

Monte Epomeo elevation profile

You stay at Albergo il Monastero

Il Monastero Hotel, Ischia
Image 1 of 5

Albergo il Monastero

Ischia

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Safe
  • Television
  • Wifi access

Albergo il Monastero can be found in Ischia’s 16th century monastery housed within the town’s panoramic castle. Perched on la Rocca, a small rocky island linked to the main island by a bridge, it’s wonderfully tranquil with colourful gardens where vegetables are also grown, but within easy walking distance of the bars, restaurants and shops in Ischia Town. There is a stunning terrace here where you can enjoy breakfast and dinner over the summer months, and which boasts a gorgeous view of the village of Ischia Ponte, the beach and glittering seas. Headwater customers are upgraded to the sea view rooms at this hotel.

Day 4 · —Free day - Visit Procida

Free day - Visit Procida

Hop on a handy hydrofoil (30 mins) to pint sized Procida, the smallest island in the Gulf of Naples. Discover the ancient walled citadel of ‘Terra Murata’; perched on a promontory gazing out to sea, there’s much to explore here including the Abbey of San Michele and the 16th century governor’s palace and former prison of Palazzo d’Avalos. Drink in the sea views before heading to the little fishing village of Marina di Corricella, a cluster of brightly coloured houses huddled around its port, that was used on the film set of ‘The Talented Mr Ripley’. Visit the charming harbour and pristine sandy beach at Chiaiolella and enjoy untouched Vivara, a tiny island and nature reserve linked to Procida by a small bridge.

You stay at Albergo il Monastero

Il Monastero Hotel, Ischia
Image 1 of 5

Albergo il Monastero

Ischia

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Safe
  • Television
  • Wifi access

Albergo il Monastero can be found in Ischia’s 16th century monastery housed within the town’s panoramic castle. Perched on la Rocca, a small rocky island linked to the main island by a bridge, it’s wonderfully tranquil with colourful gardens where vegetables are also grown, but within easy walking distance of the bars, restaurants and shops in Ischia Town. There is a stunning terrace here where you can enjoy breakfast and dinner over the summer months, and which boasts a gorgeous view of the village of Ischia Ponte, the beach and glittering seas. Headwater customers are upgraded to the sea view rooms at this hotel.

Day 5 · —Ischia to Capri

Ischia to Capri

Private transfer to Ischia harbour this morning to catch the hydrofoil to stunning Capri. You have the afternoon at leisure to relax, explore elegant Capri town with its luxury boutiques and bustling cafes, visit the art collection and glorious gardens at Villa San Michele in Anacapri or take a boat trip to the world-famous Grotta Azzurra or Blue Grotto.

You stay at Hotel Senaria

Reception at the Hotel Senaria
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Hotel Senaria

Capri

  • Air conditioning
  • ATM
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Television
  • Wifi access

The Hotel Senaria can be found in the heart of the quiet village of Anacapri, and is nestled amongst palm and pine trees, mangroves and ficus trees, making it a sleepy oasis during your stay on Capri. The bright and airy rooms are all ensuite with shower. There is a lovely communal terrace from where you can admire views over Capri and the hotel is within easy walking distance of the bars, cafes and restaurants within central Anacapri.

Day 6 · 9km/5.6miCapri's South Coast - Villas and Views

Capri's South Coast - Villas and Views

From the vibrant piazzetta in Capri Town, walk past colourful villas with bougainvillea filled gardens to the Roman Villa Jovis, once the residence of the Emperor Tiberius. From here, it’s downhill past the Arco Naturale to the famous Faraglioni, 3 sea stacks that stand guard off Capri’s southern shores. Leave time to discover the Gardens of Augustus with their panoramic flower-decked terraces en route to the sheltered bay of Marina Piccola. A short bus ride takes you back to your hotel.

Elevation

Capri's South Coast - Villas and Views elevation profile

You stay at Hotel Senaria

Reception at the Hotel Senaria
Image 1 of 4

Hotel Senaria

Capri

  • Air conditioning
  • ATM
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Television
  • Wifi access

The Hotel Senaria can be found in the heart of the quiet village of Anacapri, and is nestled amongst palm and pine trees, mangroves and ficus trees, making it a sleepy oasis during your stay on Capri. The bright and airy rooms are all ensuite with shower. There is a lovely communal terrace from where you can admire views over Capri and the hotel is within easy walking distance of the bars, cafes and restaurants within central Anacapri.

Day 7 · 10km/6.2miCapri: Monte Solario and the Grotta Azzurra

Capri: Monte Solario and the Grotta Azzurra

Take the chair lift up Monte Solario, the highest point on the island and one of the best viewpoints on the trip, to follow a panoramic downhill path to the island’s most western lighthouse. Continue along the trail as it hugs the coast, past restored fortresses and tiny coves to the Grotta Azzurra, a natural sea cave with crystalline blue waters. Return to the hotel by bus.

Elevation

Capri: Monte Solario and the Grotta Azzurra elevation profile

You stay at Hotel Senaria

Reception at the Hotel Senaria
Image 1 of 4

Hotel Senaria

Capri

  • Air conditioning
  • ATM
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Television
  • Wifi access

The Hotel Senaria can be found in the heart of the quiet village of Anacapri, and is nestled amongst palm and pine trees, mangroves and ficus trees, making it a sleepy oasis during your stay on Capri. The bright and airy rooms are all ensuite with shower. There is a lovely communal terrace from where you can admire views over Capri and the hotel is within easy walking distance of the bars, cafes and restaurants within central Anacapri.

Day 8 · —Leave Capri

Leave Capri

We take you back to Capri port for the hydrofoil to Naples

Extending your holiday

HOTEL IL CONVENTO, NAPLES (3 STAR)

Hotel Il Convento

Naples

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Market
  • Mastercard
  • Minibar
  • Other email access
  • Safe
  • Shops

Il Convento is located just a few minutes’ walk away from the Via Toledo shopping area and ten minutes away from the famous Piazza Plebiscito and Castel dell’Ovo. It is ideally situated for a long weekend break or a short stopover.

The hotel dates back to the 1600s and has been tastefully converted to make the most of its original features. There’s a cosy feel to all the rooms, with exposed brickwork walls and breakfast served by candle light!

Restaurant terrace at the Hotel Tonnarella
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Hotel la Tonnarella

Sorrento

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • ATM
  • Bank
  • Hairdryers
  • Market
  • Mastercard
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Television

Located on the edge of Sorrento, the 4* Hotel la Tonnarella benefits from superb views over Vesuvius. The comfortable bedrooms are all ensuite with balcony and feature the local Vietri tiles for which the region is renowned.
The hotel boasts excellent facilities including a private pebble beach, a lounge bar and a stylish restaurant, featuring an external terrace looking out over the stunning backdrop of the Bay of Naples.

What our travellers say

We were looking for a relaxing holiday in interesting locations with lovely walks and good food. This holiday was perfect. We especially enjoyed staying in the monastery in Ischia. Breakfast on the terrace there was a delight. The walks were excellent and the navigation App was very helpful. A wonderful holiday.

Mrs Todd

An enjoyable holiday overall. Sadly the weather wasn’t great for the first few days, and a couple of the ferry rides were quite rough and sea-sickness inducing. Procida is well worth a visit and relatively quiet, hotel was quiet and had a lovely garden, swimming pool, and covered patio restaurant. Sadly the evening meal was not good. Ischia is becoming very touristy, but the Monastero hotel was a wonderful find. Excellent breakfast. We did not try the dinner there as it was an expensive tasting menu. Our bathroom was a bit cramped, but others were better. A lovely garden to explore and a free ticket to the Castello which was wonderful. The walking was a bit much for us (pensioners). Taking a bus to Campagnano on the first day would cut out a tedious climb through the outskirts of Ischia town. Capri has become very overcrowded with tourists, but the hotel was well placed away from the crowds, and had a lovely terrace. It was easy to shorten the walks to allow time to visit attractions.

URRY

We did this trip in reverse; Capri, Ischia & Procida. That fitted with other plans we had. Headwater were great at accommodating that change and updating a significant chunk of their documentation. Walking in Procida is a bit of a struggle given the nature of the island but the other islands made up for that. We especially enjoyed Ischia where the accommodation was fantastic and we used the buses (as we did in Capri) to visit some of the sights including a day at the Aphrodite Apollon Thermal Park which we would heartily recommend.

WICKS

Great holiday overall – would definitely travel with Headwater again

JEFFERYS

We loved this holiday – great app – well researched walking trails and good small family run accommodation – we will definitely do another Headwater self-guided walk

KEEFFE

The holiday was very enjoyable and everything went smoothly, (thanks) some of the route directions provided were a bit vague in places and we’d have preferred to have had a proper map to refer to from time to time. Overall it was a great holiday and we’ll need to start planning the next adventure as soon as possible.

BARR

All the hotels were excellent, great staff, good food and very comfortable, especially Il Monastero in Ischia. We found most of the walks too challenging for us and on reflection we would have preferred to visit only Ischia and Capri, having longer on each and the flexibility to do less walking each day.
Procida: Walking in Procida is not our idea of a relaxing walk. The island is so small it is difficult to get off the beaten track and every narrow street is a main road. We felt vulnerable walking through the narrow streets with locals speeding past in their cars, vans and on scooters and electric bikes. The whole island was very run down.
Ischia: A much nicer island, more pleasant to walk about. We found the buses completely unfathomable, no signage along the routes, on one occasion we ended up going back to Ischia Port because we missed our stop! Not as easy to buy tickets as the information suggested.
Capri: A lovely, upmarket island, stunning views.
Some initial confusion over logistical arrangements, due to this being a new trip for Headwater in 2023, We were given compensation for the cost of the ferry from Naples to Procida and also given extra evening meal because of incorrect info on itinerary.
We had a problem with a cancelled EasyJet flight and Headwater were extremely helpful and efficient in helping us to resolve this issue.

Gary Armstrong

Very well planned and everything went smoothly. It would be nice if there’s weren’t better or more information about where the hotels are situated relating to centrums

Eiriksina Eyja Asgrimsdottir

The trip was great and the walks were excellent. Some routes were so quiet during our April visit, we barely bumped into another soul, which really suited us. Some routes are off the beaten path; that’s special and something you might not find otherwise. The app was impressive and we utilised it fully.

Neil Macgillivray

What a brilliant holiday. Loved using the App for the walks. Loved the variety of hotels and islands. Using the App visually at times was useful as we could check that we were on track.
Procida was like Italy unspoilt. Ischia was somewhere in the middle and Capri was far too busy until we did the walk and saw no one.
A good degree of fitness needed as all three island had hills, together with 28deg heat to make it really enjoyable.
The App made it possible to see all the back alleys as well as more mountainous routes.

Karen Hellings
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Positive impact

Carbon score for this trip

19.0

Kg CO₂e

per person, per night

Relative to other Headwater trips

We measure emissions from the parts of the holiday we organise — including accommodation, in-trip transport, meals and activities — and express them as CO₂e per person, per night. Our label doesn’t include your travel to and from the start of the trip. As a Certified B Corp, Headwater is committed to reducing this figure and to positively impacting local communities, the local environment and our staff. Learn more

Price on request