Arrival

The Naples-Capodichino International Airport is located just 7 kilometers from the city center and is the ideal starting point for your trip to Vesuvius and the Amalfi Coast. Naples is well-connected to the rest of Europe, with direct flights from major hubs such as London, Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid, and Munich typically taking between 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can travel via Rome, from where high-speed trains travel to Naples in 70 minutes.

For the Naples region, a rental car is recommended, especially for the winding coastal road of the Amalfi Coast.

Mount Vesuvius – Europe’s Most Famous Volcano

Mount Vesuvius near Naples, at 1,281 meters high, is one of the most active volcanoes in Europe and shapes the entire region. The catastrophic eruption in 79 AD, which buried Pompeii, made Vesuvius world-famous. From the summit of Vesuvius, you can enjoy spectacular views of Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and the Gulf of Naples.

The hike from the parking lot to the crater rim takes about 30 minutes. The ascent of Vesuvius is particularly worthwhile in the morning or evening when there are fewer visitors and you can enjoy the view of the Amalfi Coast in peace. Don’t worry, the ascent is not steep and relatively easy. However, sturdy shoes are recommended.

If you don’t have a rental car, the easiest and most convenient bus connection to Vesuvius is the Vesuvio Express from Ercolano Scavi. The shuttle bus departs directly from the square in front of the Ercolano Scavi station (Piazzale Stazione Circumvesuviana). You can easily get to the station by train from Sorrento or Naples. The trains run very regularly. It is best to combine your Vesuvius trip with Pompeii, as both destinations are easily accessible from Naples and belong together thematically.

Pompeii – The Petrified City by Vesuvius

The ancient Roman city of Pompeii lies directly on Mount Vesuvius and is a must on any trip to Naples. It is one of the most impressive archaeological sites worldwide and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. When Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, the entire city with approx. 20,000 inhabitants was buried within a few hours under a layer of ash, pumice, and lava up to six meters thick. The red-hot pyroclastic cloud reached temperatures of up to 300 degrees. Most people had no chance to escape.

The layer of ash sealed the city like a snapshot and shows us today Roman life as it was almost 2,000 years ago. On a tour through the amazingly well-preserved streets, you will discover not only monumental public buildings but also private houses, bakeries, taverns, thermal baths, brothels, and even ancient street food stalls.

Tip

Plan at least 3 – 4 hours for your visit to Pompeii, or even better, half a day. The site is huge and you will be walking a lot. Definitely wear comfortable shoes. In summer it can get extremely hot as there is hardly any shade. Bring sun protection and plenty of water. It is best to visit Pompeii early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it is cooler and less crowded.

Note: There is a daily limit of 20,000 entries – booking early is therefore sensible during peak periods. Costs range between 20 and 30 Euros depending on the ticket. You can find the official ticket page here.

The Amalfi Coast – UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most spectacular stretches of coast in Italy – steep cliffs, pastel-colored towns, and terraced slopes above turquoise blue water. A simple day trip hardly does justice to the region. You will experience the coast best if you take time for several stages and engage with the unique mosaic of panoramic views, bathing bays, and charming villages.

For traveling by rental car: It is beautiful, but you need patience. The coastal road is winding and quickly overloaded in the high season, and parking in the towns can become a time-eater. In return, you get the freedom to make spontaneous photo stops and drive to smaller viewpoints.

If you want to travel as stress-free as possible, buses (and public connections in general) are often the more relaxed choice: You don’t have to concentrate on tight curves, can enjoy the views, and arrive directly in the town centers without searching for parking.

Hiking

If you like being on foot, consciously plan time for hikes. Away from the main road, there are old paths between the towns that lead you through lemon groves, terraced landscapes, and quiet ridges. Often you get the most beautiful views of the sea this way. Especially on warm days, the combination of “hiking in the morning, break at noon, moving on in the afternoon” is worthwhile. This way you avoid the great heat and the biggest bustle.

Swimming

If you want a beach holiday, these two places are ideal.

• Maiori has the longest sandy beach on the entire coast and a wide promenade. This is very untypical for the region, but very practical for families.
• Minori lies in a sheltered bay and, unlike the rocky steep coasts of Positano or Praiano, offers real beach access right in front of the promenade. And that without hundreds of steps! The place is also known for its pasta tradition and the famous “Sal De Riso” pastry shop.

Sorrento – Starting Point for the Round Trip

Sorrento is the ideal strategic starting point for the entire region, as it is perfectly located for transport between Naples, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast, but is itself much more relaxed than the big city of Naples. The town sits spectacularly on a steep tuff terrace and offers one of the best views of Vesuvius and the Gulf of Naples from the Villa Comunale. The heart of the city beats at Piazza Tasso, from where you dive into the narrow alleys of the old town to taste Limoncello or marvel at the famous Vallone dei Mulini (Valley of the Mills) – a deep gorge with an overgrown ruin that looks like an enchanted “Lost Place”.

For authentic flair, the descent to Marina Grande is worthwhile, a former fishing village directly on the water with colorful boats and excellent fish restaurants. Those who want to swim should visit the Bagni della Regina Giovanna: This emerald green rocky cove just outside the city is connected to the sea by a rock arch and lies picturesquely between the ruins of a Roman villa – a magical swimming spot away from the classic beaches.

Salerno – The Southern Gateway to the Amalfi Coast

Salerno is often in the shadow of Naples, but that is exactly why it is so attractive: The city is greener, more relaxed, and offers the perfect balance of Italian daily life and culture. The long seaside promenade Lungomare Trieste invites you to stroll under palm trees, while high above from the Castello di Arechi you enjoy the best view over the entire gulf. A special jewel in the old town is the Giardino della Minerva, the first botanical medicinal herb garden in Europe, which today invites you to linger as a green oasis with a tea room and sea view.

Positano – The Pearl of the Amalfi Coast

Positano is the absolute postcard motif of the region: Like a colorful cascade, the pastel-colored houses tumble down the steep rock face to the sea. It is famous for its unique fashion, the “Moda Positano”: airy linen dresses, handmade leather sandals (often made to measure right before your eyes), and colorful ceramics. The place is almost car-free, which means you explore it primarily via countless stairs and narrow, winding alleys. The heart of the place is the Spiaggia Grande, the famous main beach with its distinctive orange-blue sun umbrellas. From here you have the classic “Instagram view” back up the wall of houses.

Praiano – The Relaxed Alternative

Praiano is strategically located between Positano and Amalfi, but is significantly quieter and cheaper. The place also stretches up the slope, which means: many stairs, but magnificent sunsets, as unlike Positano, it has sun longer. The highlight is the church of San Gennaro with its colorful majolica tiled dome directly in front of the sea. The small bay Marina di Praia, wedged between high rock walls, has great restaurants right on the water.

Conca dei Marini

A tiny, charming village best known for two things: The Grotta dello Smeraldo (Emerald Grotto), a sea cave with glowing green water, and the “Sfogliatella Santa Rosa” pastry, which was invented here in the monastery of the same name. I would skip the grotto. It is neither spectacular nor really worth seeing. We were sold a plastic Mary statue in the water as a miracle.

Other Places

Furore is famous for its deep gorge where the sea cuts in, spanned by a 30-meter high bridge. There is no classic center, the houses are scattered on the rock walls. Atrani is just a short walk from Amalfi. It is the smallest municipality in Italy. It looks like a Roman amphitheater opening up to the sea. Ravello is not on the sea, but sits 365 meters above it on a rocky ridge. It is the most aristocratic and elegant place on the coast, famous for its tranquility and classic summer concerts. Vietri sul Mare is the first town coming from Salerno and is the capital of ceramics. Everything here is tiled: house numbers, benches, shop facades, and the dome of the church San Giovanni Battista.

Capri – Dream Island in the Gulf of Naples

The island of Capri is located in the Gulf of Naples and has been an exclusive retreat since Roman times. It offers breathtaking views of Naples, Vesuvius, and the Amalfi Coast. It is easily accessible by ferry from Naples or Sorrento. The crossing takes only a few minutes. And these are the highlights on the island.

Faraglioni Rocks

The three monumental Faraglioni rocks are the landmark of Capri and rise up to 109 meters out of the crystal clear water of the Tyrrhenian Sea. These imposing limestone rocks have been shaped by millennia of wind and waves. Particularly spectacular is the middle rock with its natural rock arch, through which traditional wooden boats pass on an island tour. Most tours start from the Marina Grande harbor and take about 2 hours, giving you the opportunity to jump into the water for swimming and snorkeling at particularly beautiful spots.

But you can also photograph the rocks perfectly without a boat trip. From the main town of Capri, the picturesque Via dei Faraglioni leads in serpentines down to the coast, where you can admire the nearest Faraglione from only about 50 meters away. This short but impressive hiking trail starts near the Gardens of Augustus and leads you over paved paths and stairs to the Belvedere Tragara – one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the island. From this terrace, you have a breathtaking view directly of the three Faraglioni rocks and the glittering sea, especially at sunset this place is romantic and perfect for photos.

Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) on Capri is world-famous for its magically glowing, intense blue water and is one of Italy’s most spectacular natural phenomena. The incredible play of light is created by sunlight entering the cave through an underwater opening and being reflected by the white sandy bottom. The water thus seems to shine in an unreal electric blue, while the cave ceiling shimmers silvery. This optical illusion is particularly impressive in the morning between 10 am and 1 pm when the sun is at the right angle. From Capri town or Anacapri, you first take the bus to the Grotta Azzurra, where small rowboats await you. The cave entrance is only about one meter high. When entering, you have to lie flat in the boat, and in high waves, the grotto is even completely closed.

Monte Solaro

Monte Solaro is the highest point on the island of Capri at 589 meters and offers the most breathtaking panorama of the entire region. The chairlift (Seggiovia) from the center of Anacapri to the summit is already an attraction in itself: In about 12 minutes you float in open single chairs over Mediterranean gardens, vineyards, and fragrant macchia vegetation to the top. The leisurely ride gives you time to enjoy the landscape and is also quite manageable for people with a slight fear of heights. Once at the top, an overwhelming 360-degree panorama awaits you over Capri, Naples, the smoking Vesuvius, and the entire Amalfi Coast all the way to Sorrento. In clear weather, the view even extends to Ischia and the southern coast of Italy.

Florida – pure sunshine, ocean breeze, and ultimate road trip vibes! If you’re craving an unforgettable adventure, grab a car, turn up the music, and drive from the Everglades to Key West. Along the way, you’ll experience wild nature, stunning beaches, a Caribbean atmosphere, and a true sense of freedom. So, let’s hit the road!

The Everglades – A Natural Paradise

Our adventure begins in the Everglades, the vast swamp region in southern Florida. If you want to dive right into the heart of this fascinating landscape, Homestead is the perfect starting point. From here, you can easily access the best tours, and let’s be honest – no visit to the Everglades is complete without an exhilarating Airboat ride!

As soon as you settle into the flat-bottomed boat, you’re already skimming across the water. The wind rushes past your face as you glide past endless grasslands. Suddenly, the driver stops, points to the right – and there it is: a massive alligator, motionless in the water. A true goosebump moment! Besides the ‘gators,’ you might also spot turtles, exotic birds, and, with a bit of luck, even a Florida panther.

If you prefer a slower pace, you can take a stroll along the Anhinga Trail or enjoy a relaxing kayak tour.

But enough of the swamps – it’s time to hit the highway, because the spectacular journey from the Everglades to Key West is about to begin!

Road Trip on the Florida Keys – Island Hopping

The journey from the Everglades to Key West is a true highlight in itself. The Overseas Highway stretches across 42 bridges, connecting island after island – all with breathtaking views of the turquoise sea. Just roll down the windows, feel the ocean breeze, and cruise!

Key Largo

First stop: Key Largo – the first and largest of the Florida Keys, a paradise for divers and nature lovers. It’s best known for John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater nature park in the U.S., where you can explore the country’s most vibrant coral reef. Among colorful fish and coral formations, you might even spot the famous submerged Christ of the Abyss statue.

Islamorada

Next up: Islamorada – the “Sportfishing Capital of the World.” Beyond world-class fishing opportunities, you’ll find stunning beaches, lively beach bars, and the famous Theater of the Sea, where you can swim with dolphins. A must-visit is Robbie’s Marina, where you can feed massive tarpons right off the dock. With its laid-back atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and unforgettable sunsets, Islamorada is the perfect stop on any Florida road trip. Pro tip: Try the Conch Fritters (fried conch), they’re especially delicious here!

Seven Mile Bridge

Next stop: Marathon & the Seven Mile Bridge – an absolute highlight! This 11 km (7-mile) bridge stretches seemingly endlessly over the water, making you feel like you’re driving straight through the ocean. It connects Knight’s Key with Little Duck Key and offers breathtaking views of the turquoise sea. The old bridge, built in 1912 as part of the Overseas Railroad, is now a popular walking trail and photo spot.

Bahia Honda State Park

Just beyond the bridge, Bahia Honda State Park awaits with one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches. This natural paradise in the middle of the Florida Keys is a true hidden gem (okay, maybe not that hidden anymore, but still a must-visit!). Located on Big Pine Key, the park boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Florida. You’ll have two great options:

• Calusa Beach – Small, cozy, with a perfect view of the old Bahia Honda Bridge—great for photos.
• Sandspur Beach – Longer, quieter, with powdery soft sand—ideal for relaxing.

No matter which one you choose, Bahia Honda is the perfect place to take a break, soak up the sun, and enjoy the Florida Keys’ natural beauty.

Key West – An Island Paradise in Southern Florida

And finally – Key West, the tropical paradise at the end of the road! Here, colorful houses give the town its unique charm, and countless cool cafés and bars invite you to sit back and relax. But what truly makes Key West special is its laid-back, almost Caribbean atmosphere. So, take a leisurely stroll down Duval Street, grab a slice of refreshing Key Lime Pie, and soak in the island vibes.

A must-do experience: A snorkeling tour to Dry Tortugas National Park! You can reach this remote island group by boat or seaplane, where you’ll find crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. While snorkeling, you might encounter dazzling tropical fish, majestic stingrays, and maybe even a curious sea turtle. Absolutely magical!

After an exciting snorkeling adventure, it’s time to relax and enjoy the evening. And what could be better than one of Key West’s legendary sunsets? Head to Mallory Square, grab a spot, and watch as the sun dips into the ocean – surrounded by street performers, musicians, and a laid-back crowd soaking up the magic.

And while you’re here, don’t forget to snap a photo at the Southernmost Point – the iconic landmark marking the southernmost point of the continental U.S.. A classic Key West moment!

The Caribbean had been on my bucket list for a long time, and finally, the time had come: I fulfilled a dream and traveled to Barbados. The small island is famous for its stunning beaches, the turquoise sea, and of course, the legendary Mount Gay Rum. In this blog post, I’ll take you on my journey and share my best experiences and tips.

Overview

1. Arrival: How to get to Barbados
2. The History of Barbados
3. Accommodation – Charming Guesthouses Away from Hotels
4. The Beaches of Barbados – A Paradise on Earth
5. Exploring the Island by Rental Car – A Road Trip Through Barbados
6. Mount Gay Rum Distillery – The Taste of Barbados
7. Conclusion: Barbados is Pure Caribbean Magic
8. Insider Tips

Arrival: How to Get to Barbados

There are several ways to fly to Barbados from Germany. I chose a direct flight with Condor, but there are also somewhat cheaper connections via Paris or Amsterdam. Most flights land at the Grantley Adams International Airport in Bridgetown. As soon as I left the airport, I was greeted by the warm tropical breeze – a perfect start to my vacation.

The History of Barbados

Barbados has a fascinating history, dating back to the Arawak and Carib Indians who originally inhabited the island. In 1627, Barbados was colonized by the British and quickly became a significant center for sugarcane cultivation. British rule lasted for over 300 years until Barbados gained its independence in 1966. Today, the island is a parliamentary democracy and a member of the Commonwealth. British influences are still visible in the culture, architecture, and even in the left-hand traffic, while the vibrant Caribbean way of life shapes the island’s atmosphere.

Accommodation – Charming Guesthouses Away from Hotels

If you don’t want to stay in a large resort in Barbados, there are numerous charming private guesthouses and small boutique accommodations. These offer a more authentic and often more personal experience than large hotel chains. Many of these accommodations offer a relaxed, homely atmosphere and are a great way to connect with locals and learn more about the culture of Barbados.

I stayed in a beautiful guesthouse on the west coast, run by a local family. The best part was that I had direct access to the sea and my own private beach.

The Beaches of Barbados – A Paradise on Earth

Barbados is famous for its breathtaking beaches, which truly look like something out of a postcard. Here are my favorites:

• Bottom Bay: A rather quiet beach on the east coast, surrounded by impressive cliffs – a real hidden gem for those wanting to relax away from the crowds. There are often few tourists here, so you can enjoy the stunning views all to yourself.
• Sandy Lane Beach: An exclusive and picturesque beach on the west coast, known for its crystal-clear water, fine golden sand, and tranquil, relaxed atmosphere. It feels like being in a tropical paradise.
• Brandons Beach: A beautiful, peaceful beach on the west coast of Barbados, perfect for swimmers and sunbathers. The soft golden sand and clear, calm waters make it ideal for families. It’s also just a few minutes from Bridgetown and offers a relaxed atmosphere away from the crowds.

Exploring the Island by Rental Car – A Road Trip Through Barbados

One of the best ways to explore the island is by rental car. Barbados is not huge, but there are countless beautiful places that you can easily discover by car. Left-hand traffic is the norm here, but I got used to it after a few minutes. My highlights on the road trip:

• Harrison’s Cave: An impressive limestone cave with underground waterfalls and stunning stalactites. The guided tour through the cave was fascinating and gave me exciting insights into the island’s geological history.
• Bathsheba Beach: A rugged, wild coastline with gigantic rocks – a dream for photographers and a popular spot for surfers, as big waves often break here.
• St. Nicholas Abbey: A historic sugar plantation with breathtaking views of the east coast. Here you can learn not only about the history of sugarcane cultivation but also taste excellent rum.

Mount Gay Rum Distillery – The Taste of Barbados

A must for all visitors to Barbados is the Mount Gay Rum Distillery. As the oldest rum distillery in the world (since 1703), it produces some of the best rums in the Caribbean. During a guided tour, I learned a lot about the production process – from fermentation to barrel aging – and of course, got to try different varieties.

My favorite? The Mount Gay XO, a wonderfully smooth premium rum with notes of caramel and vanilla. In addition to the tour, there are tastings and cocktail courses that provide an exciting glimpse into the world of rum.

You can book the tour directly online or just stop by spontaneously. Normally, you should always be able to get a spot.

Conclusion: Barbados is Pure Caribbean Magic

My vacation in Barbados was simply unforgettable. The beaches, the friendly people, the food (Flying Fish is a must!), the turtles, and of course the rum enchanted me. Whether you want to relax, surf, or just enjoy the Caribbean lifestyle – this island is a dream destination.

Have you ever been to the Caribbean or are you planning a trip to Barbados? I look forward to your comments!

Are you looking for the best beaches in Europe? From the golden coastlines of Spain to the remote islands of Greece, there are countless stunning beaches to discover. Whether you’re interested in peaceful coves or lively coastal towns, Europe has something for every taste. Take a look here!

County Cornwall – How to get there

The county of Cornwall is located in the southwest of England and is a charming holiday destination that impresses with its breathtaking coastal landscapes and small fishing villages similar to Ireland. The relaxed atmosphere, mild climate, and culinary delights, including fresh seafood, make Cornwall an unforgettable travel destination. And here’s how you can easily get to Cornwall:

The small Newquay Airport in the heart of Cornwall is the easiest and fastest option, although it is also very limited. Most flights operate within the UK, but you can fly there as well from Düsseldorf, Faro, Alicante, Zurich, Malaga, Copenhagen and Guernsey.

By car, the journey takes a bit longer, approximately 5 hours from London. The first section on the highway is relatively fast, but patience is required for the subsequent journey on the country roads.

The most convenient option is the GWR train, which goes directly from London to Cornwall.

Parking & Costs

The parking area is right by the beach. Access is via a somewhat adventurous and partly unpaved road.

Costs: free of charge

Parking & Costs

There are two large paid parking lots available for the expansive beach. Parking directly in the town of Ses Covetes is almost impossible.

Ses Covetes Parking

This parking lot is located a bit further away and requires a longer walk. Occasionally, shuttle buses run, but relying on them isn’t advisable.

Costs approx. € 5 cash for parking ticket

Ses Salines Parking

This parking lot is my recommendation. It’s located right by the beach, spacious, and easily accessible.

Costs approx. € 8 cash or card