The Bay of Naples is a gorgeous inlet off the Tyrrhenian Sea (part of the Mediterranean). It is situated southwest of the city of Naples and measures approximately 10 miles wide and 20 miles long. The northernmost point is Cape Meseno and the southernmost point is Campanella Point. The area is known for the many Gulf of Naples attractions including Mount Vesuvius, the Bay of Naples islands, and the general scenic beauty of the volcanic hills, blue sea, and enchanting beaches. There are also a plethora of restaurants, shopping destinations, cafes, and hotels near the Bay of Naples for anyone seriously considering making a trip to this alluring part of southern Italy.

The main Gulf of Naples attractions can be relegated to three categories: the islands within the gulf, the ruins at Herculaneum, Pompeii, and Vesuvius, and, finally, the towns along the Amalfi Coast. Bay of Naples islands such as Ischia, Capri, and Procida offer tourists from around the world a delightfully memorable experience with their hillside villages, gorgeous narrow streets, cafes and shops, and lovely beaches with views of the sea.

Not many people pass up the opportunity to witness the ancient ruins of the great civilization of Pompeii when they visit the Bay of Naples. It also well worth the time to visit the remains at Herculaneum, and certainly Mount Vesuvius. It is not everyday that you get to see these kinds of historical wonders on vacation, so you should definitely consider taking a tour of all three destinations. There are a variety of providers that offer guided tours of the sights so that you can make the most of your experience visiting some of the most sought after natural attractions in Western Europe.

Naples Map

Perhaps the most popular Gulf of Naples attractions are the small towns and communes that pepper the Amalfi Coast, including Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento. Sorrento has become one of the most popular destinations along the Amalfi Coast and the Bay of Naples. It is perfectly positioned in a place at the southern end of the gulf where you can easily access Pompeii and Vesuvius on the interior via train, bus, or car, the islands via hydrofoil or ferry, and a variety of other locations in and around Naples and southern Italy. This may be a good place to look for hotels near the Bay of Naples, as you will be within close proximity of many of the most popular attractions in the area. Positano has also become one of the most popular resort destinations in this part of the Mediterranean. The cultural setting here is quite remarkable, complete with colorful villas, working artisans, and narrow, quaint streets with cafes and restaurants. Positano and Sorrento are two of the most alluring Gulf of Naples attractions.

As you are shaping up your itinerary for which of the Bay of Naples islands and attractions you are planning to see, keep in mind that there are a multitude of things to do at each destination, from visiting historical monuments to the gorgeous beaches. Plan your trip so that you get some time to relax in between all of the awesome sightseeing opportunities you are certain to have.