Best of South Italy in 13 Days Tour

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Ann was an outstanding guide!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Blue grotto in Capri and the Amalfi Coast"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Ann is outstanding tour guide. Watches out for her troupe. Experienced travel philosophy of roll with the punches when faced with travel adversity – it is just part of life and the experience and just deal with it. I would enjoy traveling again with Ann.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Capitoline museum tour with excellent tour guide."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Wonderful. Ann was a great tour guide.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Pompeii. Loved discovering this progressive ancient city and absolutely loved our local guide Gaetano."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Overall tour was well organized, included everything stated plus some.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Pompeii"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour guide, Ann, was fantastic in taking care of our group, and me in particular especially with regard to food issues. I have a gluten allergy, and for religious reasons do not eat pork or shellfish. Ann went above and beyond in arranging for each restaurant to provide me gluten free items that were excellent - - I was the envy of the others in our group.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The dinner hosted by the family friends of Ann's - - they were so gracious and welcoming, and the local dishes they prepared for us were amazing."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

It was good

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The lighthouse at Anacapri"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Tour was run seamlessly.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Standing on our balcony in Vieste looking at the ocean"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We have been long term Rick Steves followers we enjoyed his PBS shows, Monday Night travel and his travel books using them extensively in previous years. As Rick Steves tour newbie’s we were not sure what to expect. We liked the Covid safety protocols. The tour exceeded all of our expectations. Our primary tour guide was wonderful. The city guides really brought Europe to life. The accommodations and transportation were excellent. We are recommending Rick Steves Tours to all of our friends!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Vieste for location, sheer beauty and a unbelievable hotel room view and Pompeii for the outstanding tour provided by our enthusiastic guide."

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

The tour was a good one. But, did not enjoy as much as the three previous Rick Steves tours we have taken. Primarily, I felt it did not rise to the same level as others due to the bus, guide and accommodations that were better on all three of the prior tours.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I really enjoyed the Capitoline Museum and especially Francesca who offered an inspired and insightful description of many pieces focusing on the time dimension that is frequently overlooked."

Overall rating: rating 2 of 5

The tour was strenuous.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Getting home and getting covid"

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

Generally a good trip but was disappointing compared to previous trips. Didn’t have the value add RS features. Hotel locations not close to activities so added more walking than seemed necessary.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Best memory is boat tour out of Vieste along Adriatic Sea. Nice long cruise which entered several grottoes."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This is the only area in Italy we have not been, and it was just breathtaking. Beyond what we expected.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"As the sassi in Matera came into view as we entered the old town. It was just astounding."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

It was billed as one of the more strenuous tour and it certainly was. It was a good thing it only rained one day because some of the terrain would have been very slippery. That said I did do the lemon walk and the trek to castle St. Elmo for some spectacular views of Napoli. Our group was wonderful. It was nice to have our bags brought to our room and there was wine at the meals. The sites were unique and mind boggling, tour guides as expected where very knowledgeable. Came home happy but tired.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were a lot of wow moments on the trip. So picking out a favorite is hard. I would say it is a toss up between the Greek ruins in Paestum and the incredible carving of the statue of the veiled Christ."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"interesting historic sites with good local guides Vieste boat ride on Adriatic was the WOW"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my first Rick Steve’s tour. I have been on other tours before but this tour was outstanding in comparison. The tour guide, the local tour guides and the itinerary provided me with an excellent experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many but a few include the expertise of the local tour guides who brought museums and locations visited to life. Spending an evening with a local family was also a wonderful and unique experience."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The trip was equal to our past experiences on RS Tours.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We celebrated our 40th Wedding Anniversary on the Amalfi Coast. Our Tour Guide arranged for us to have a special dinner at a restaurant that had excellent food and a view of the Maiori night lights. Second to that would be the boat trip we took in Vieste, which toured the coast and took us into many Grottos."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour guide Marianna was fantastico!!!! This tour like any other Rick Steves' tour is well organize and the structure allows free time to explore on your own

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Visiting the Matera."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Mariana is a pro guide. There were some wrinkles along the way (Covid cases, Rocky boat weather) and she smoothly got thru all the arrangements for them. I liked the mix of city and small town experiences. I felt like I got a very accurate taste of southern Italy life!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Believe it or not, I loved the Buffalo Mozzarella farm! Of course Matera was great, but I never would have seen that farm without Rick and his crew looking for totally off the path places! We also loved the solitude of the chairlift ride from Capri to Anacapri to the top. Beautifully view."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Loved the South Italy Tour. An incredible experience of history, scenery, food and wine led by a caring and knowledgeable guide that truly enhance the experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were several, however I have to call out beautiful Matera. Had never heard of the city before and the history of the city and its caves was truly heartbreaking and remarkable."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Our experience was wonderful, yet we should have paid more attention to the strenuous warnings in the description. We walked an average of 6.5 miles a day, with many stairs and hills. You need to be in good shape to take part in this tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were Wow moments at every turn. Local guides were amazing."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well planned and executed

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Difficult to pick one"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Every day was different and extraordinary! From the gorgeous aqua waters and grottos of the Adriatic, to the incredible hues of blue and pastels of the Amalfi Coast! I had a truly amazing time!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The most exciting and memorable moments happened from the chairlift on the Isle of Capri. When I hopped off the lift at almost 2000 feet at the top, I was absolutely mesmerized by the 360 degree views of the curving edge of the cobalt blue Mediterranean Sea from the rugged Sorrento Peninsula to majestic Mt. Vesuvius to the huge ivory sprawl of the gritty city of Naples!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

There were a lot of amazing historical sites on the tour coupled with fun excursions like gelato and mozzarella making demonstrations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Matera's landscape and the unexpected contrasting shopping area were very surprising."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our fourth Rick Steves Italy Tour and like the other three this one was a wonderful experience. We felt very fortunate to have Alfio as our guide. His knowledge, humor and efficiency created a wonderful tour. The tour was expertly designed and managed with a rich blend of experiences that highlighted the treasures of Southern Italy.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"For us, our “Wow Moments” were the time we spent with the intelligent and passionate local guides (particularly the incomparable Francesca) who demonstrated a wealth of knowledge about the history, art, and culture of Italy. They pushed our thinking and left us wanting to learn more."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our trip was a delight from beginning to end. We enjoyed the company of a wonderful group of fellow travelers and an exceptional guide, Alfio. His pride in and love of his home country, coupled with his encyclopedic knowledge of Italian history and culture as well as his personal charm and humor made the tour for us.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Too many to count but the unspoiled delight of Vieste and the tour of its grottos was a highlight. We have to mention the incredibly enriching, thought provoking tour of the Capitoline Museum and Jewish Ghetto of Rome with Francesca and our guide Gaetano who brought history to life at Pompeii."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well planned. Guides were highly knowledgeable and professional.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Dinner in an Italian home! Guided walk through Pompeii. Gary’s o was a superb guide."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Overall great trip. A good variety of big and smaller towns. Good mix of group time and free time. Alfio was a fantastic guide.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Going up the chairlift at Anacapri on Capri and seeing the 360 degree island view from the top! The whole day from the ferry from Sorrento to the island, the convertible taxi ride to Anacapri town on winding switchback roads, the lunch up there and champagne at the top were all a highlight."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Informative, fun, challenging and inspiring!!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many but Rome holds my heart for its ancient history."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

The food, the history and the guides were all outstanding. We saw so many amazing towns and ruins and learned so much about Italy and Italian culture, it’s hard to explain how incredible Southern Italy is.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"All of the pizza. Every single pizza, even the gas station pizza is better than pizza in the States."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We rate this tour as one of our top vacations ever! Ann is an excellent guide, with intelligent, updated information, always concerned for our safety, and a great "cat herder" keeping us all together, while allowing us to stray a bit when we found something interesting. This tour was amazing and very educational, which we loved. We travel to learn something, enjoy the local cultural differences, and the sights did not disappoint.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So many "wows" packed into this tour, where to start? We were amazed at St. Peters Basilica discovering what the largest church in the world is about and amazed with the art and sculptures. Another was the Gargano Peninsula and the boat ride along the coast while taking the boat into the grottos made for an unexpected surprise, especially since the weather did not allow us to go to the blue grotto on Capri. Another "wow" was staying in a hotel cave room in Matera! Many more to describe."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Ann Long was an excellent guide, my 9th with RS. She was so much better than my Ireland guide, who was completely sub-standard. I was very pleased with Ms. Long. She is the kind of guide intelligent, well-informed, thoughtful and personable l guide I expect to get with RS.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Pompeii and the guide there, Gaetano, were excellent. He set me up for really getting alot out of the Naples Arch. Museum. I also thought I learned a great deal from Francesa in Rome. she explained sculpture to me as I never knew it before. I will see sculptures differently now! And the food was great."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Probably to many to mention in this short space"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The history of Rome, Hadrian's Villa, Pompeii, and the Archeological Museum in Naples wove together to create a coherent thread from the beginning of the tour to the end. Every stop on the tour provided more context to develop a much deeper understanding and appreciation of Italy generally, and this part of Italy specifically.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The combination of Pompeii and the Archeological museum in Naples was very powerful. The group dinner at Teresa and Luigi's home was unforgettable."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We loved the whole experience. We visited towns and cities in Southern Italy that were totally new to us (except Rome and Naples) and loved the sights, sounds and the learning we had along the way. Our tour guide, Sarah, we OUTSTANDING and shared so may of her personal experiences to truly bring everything to life.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many WOW moments that it's hard to pick our just one - but if have to, I'd say the visit to Matera where we had a hotel in a cave was certainly beyond anything we had expected. That whole town and exploring the Sassi with our local guide was a genuine WOW moment."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Amazing, educational, fun, memorable.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hadrian's Villa, standing on the overlook with a 360-degree view and seeing Rome in the distance."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Sarah was an excellent guide. Everybody in the group was enjoyable to be with. We had some very good meals throughout the tour and all the hotels were quite nice. Overall a very fun and interesting experience that we would highly recommend to all.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Sassi in Matera"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We loved our tour and guide, Sarah, she was terrific. The local tour guides were also wonderful and made some of the tours way more interesting than we anticipated. The cities/towns we visited were very special. Particularly Vieste, Sorrento and Maiori. All very memorable

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I would say my special WoW moments we’re visiting Vieste, Sorrento and Maiori. They were so pretty and very special places to me. Even though it rained most of our time in Maiori and I didn’t get to go to Positano, the Amalfi coast was beautiful"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I was very happy with the tour. Our guide (Sara) was excellent and the pace and information were also excellent. I am not a big fan of the cooking demonstrations but did enjoy the pasta making demonstration in Viete. It was quick, informative and I enjoyed the chef's story about learning from his nana.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We went to a number of great places, but I was unaware of Matera. and I have to say, this was my favorite place because of the history of the area and the hotel we stayed in."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was a wonderful tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing artifacts from Pompeii at the Archeological Museum in Naples after visiting Pompeii."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was enlightening, exhausting, exhilarating and full of unexpected experiences. This was our 7th Rick Steve's tour and the 4th time visiting parts of Italy. The south of Italy is a very special place. Each place we stayed was unique with surprising things to experience. The food was delicious and different everywhere we stopped along the way. It was great to be able to see some other regions of Italy and that are part of my heritage.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The "Veiled Christ" marble sculpture in Naples was a stand out. Words can barely describe it. Another wow moment was seeing the amazing artifacts from Pompeii in the Archeological Museum after experiencing the Pompeii ruins."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great tour with nice people, great tour guides, and wonderful sights.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Probably Matera. Loved Vieste too, which was beautiful."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I am still overwhelmed by the intensity of the “Southern Italy” tour. The stunning breadth of history- bc to present, the crowds, the number of staircases and wobbly cobblestones navigated and the wealth of info and perspective offered by our tour and local guides, leaves me with a great deal to process.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Theresa and Luigi’s genuine warmth, hospitality and the sheer number of dishes during the dinner in their home feel like one of the special gifts of a Rick Steves tour. The “Veiled Christ” sculpture is another “wow”."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our overall experience was great! We had some challenges as my husband hurt his knee while we were there. Our guide Marianna was very helpful with suggestions on modifying walks (taking taxis to museums to meet us) etc. we had Ann to start the tour and then Marianna, and both were excellent!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Walking into old town Matera, also the views in Vieste."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

It was very good organized and very interesting

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The tour with Francheska"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We were with a wonderful group and had two great guides. Each day was loaded with "wow" moments: the art, the food, the architecture, the people. Each local guide was passionate about their area and it showed. We enjoyed having the free time to go exploring on our own and we were given the tools to feel confident in doing so. I had been a little nervous about Naples but by the time we got there, I was ready. It was chaotic with the traffic and noise but we loved and embraced it! "Gritty" is FUN!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Walking into the Sassi in Matera was awe-inspiring. It was unlike anything I had ever seen. The family dinner in Sorrento was a highlight. Teresa and Luigi were so welcoming and the food and wine was plentiful and out of this world! And I will always remember Pompeii in the pouring rain! We practically had the place to ourselves."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Family dinner in Sorrento and Neapolitan songs Concert in Naples."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I felt our guide, Andrea, was excellent. She was very knowledgeable about the area, and was very helpful when small problems arose with individual travelers over the course of the tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I was looking especially forward to the Greek temples at Paestum, and they didn't disappoint."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Andrea was a knowledgeable and skilled guide who not only led us confidently through Italy, she also expertly herded cats (aka the tour group). All stops were fantastic and tours were passionately and well led. 5 of 5 stars!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing Matera for the first time."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Trip of a lifetime. Andrea did a superb job.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Too many to enumerate. I really enjoyed the planned meals. The wine and pasta were delicious. Andrea was very organized and I appreciated her entire approach. Although I expected and prepared for glitches, there simply were none that I was aware of. My wife and I need a structured tour and we received one. Too flight!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

What an adventure! Our guide Andrea was perfect to lead this challenging itinerary as we ate and drank our way through Southern Italy. The weather was perfect for grotto-seeking boat rides, city tours and tours of history-laden sites. This is advertised as a strenuous walking tour, and it is. We have already booked Germany/Austria/Switzerland for next fall, and hope that Andrea is our guide.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Pompeii. I had no idea how many of our “modern” conveniences were perfected by the residents of this coastal town. Our local guide Gaetano was careful to balance his description of these marvels with the sobering thought that they were built by slaves of the Roman Empire. My husband’s “wow” moment was the statue of The Veiled Christ in Naples’ San Severa Chapel."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well run with many new wonderful experiences. I did not anticipate to be so surprised.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were two that topped my list. The first was the grotto cruise on the Adriatic out of Vieste and the second was the 9,000 year old city of Matera."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Trip of a life time!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Each day was amazing. Rich Steves South of Italy tour was extra special. From the grotto boat tour on the Adriatic Coast to the Napulitanata music concert in Naples. All so fabulous."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Exceeded our expectations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Vieste and Matera were true "wow" moments."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our guide, Andrea, did a wonderful job. She showed appropriate attention to our health and safety. All was perfectly arranged and we were surprised and delighted by the adventure of touring Southern Italy.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The visit to ancient Matera, and accommodations in the limestone caves."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had eagerly anticipated this trip to southern Italy, which was our sixth RSE tour. It was wonderful! Andrea, our amazing guide, did an excellent job of keeping us safe and making sure we didn't miss any of the places and experiences we had so looked forward to over the past three years and many Monday Night travel shows later.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many wow moments on this trip. The excellent local guides in Rome (Francesca) and Pompeii (Gaetano) made those sites come alive. An absolutely picture perfect day on the Isle of Capri and the breathtaking view of the Amalfi Coast from Ravello are right up there too."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Excellent guide. Fun group. Great experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Cannot pick a favorite! Very consistent high quality. REALLY!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I enjoyed the pace of the days. There was only a few times, I wished we had more time. The Trulli houses area and the Paestum ruins. Our guide, Andrea, was fun and had great energy and handled transitions well. I loved the small unique experiences we had that as a individual traveler, I probably wouldn't hear about or see. I also enjoyed having some of our own time to schedule and enjoy the area.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite "wow" day was the Water Buffalo Mozzarella Farm. I learned so much and loved the food. The tour was great and the buffalo were gentle. One kept butting her head out of the bars, so I would keep rubbing her head."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Of the eight Rick Steves tours we've taken, I think this is one of the very best.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So many to choose from. Overall, Vieste was a "wow" simply because I knew nothing about it before the tour and was stunned by how beautiful and fun it was."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

As first time Rick Steve’s tour participants our expectations were met 120%!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our favorite WOW moments were the moments our tour guide Marianna explained a new site Or adventure on our trip!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was well thought out and really well executed by our Tour-guide and driver. We stayed in accommodation with character that was located in the heart of where you would want to be to see the sights. The itinerary included experiences that you just couldn't organise for yourself.I hadnt heard of Rick Steves prior to my Californian friends suggesting we take the trip together . I would enthusiastically recommend a Rick Steves tour to other Aussies

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Very hard to pick one ...The local guides were great ....the boat tour of the coast in Vieste maybe ...no, the sunset party in Matera ...or,maybe the meal in Trastevere .....no, the music show in Napoli .All of these would qualify but my favourite moment happened on a free day when I hired a stand up paddle board in Sorrento and went cave exploring."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my second trip with Rick Steves, it did not disappoint! Our tour guide, Marianna, was absolutely incredible. She created a wonderful environment for all of the tour members. She provided amazing insights and recommendations. Five stars for Marianna!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"While in Rome, we went on a walking tour with guide Francesca. Walking us through Rome's past and present, she led us on the most most moving tour I have ever been on. When I return to Rome, I plan to reach out to her as I would love to explore more of Rome with her amazing insights!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

This was our first tour and actually our first trip to Europe. I'm glad we went with a tour because we never could have seen and done the things we did on this tour on our own. Everything was organized so well, and what I tell people about my trip was it was "amazing" and "exhausting" all at the same time. I look forward to taking another trip in the near future.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I have always been amazed by the story of Pompeii and to be able to walk through the ruins and see the way the city was laid out and the things they'd put together for transporting water and having carts and horses travel on the streets - was amazing. The guide was very experienced and I learned so much and was so impressed."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well planned and thought out.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our guide Maryanna. She made the difference."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour was outstanding. What a fun group, guide, bus driver, etc.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The museum in Matera showing how people lived in caves. Incredible!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Very energetic experience of highlights of Southern Italy in unexpected towns one would not necessarily have focused on visiting if not for the tour. An example is the sweet waterfront town of Vieste and also Matera. On the Amalfi Coast Maiori was a surprise visit (little research done before the tour as I trusted the itinerary!) and would have liked to have stayed longer there. An extra day would have allowed more exploration and relaxation enjoying our fantastic beachfront accommodation!.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The visit to Vieste and the lovely boat tour viewing the Eastern coast line of the Adriatic to the swimming beach. Also our included meals were beyond delicious and generous and in very charming settings with lots of ambiance."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Our guide Sarah was amazing. She is top-notch, kind, organized, passionate about Italy, and constantly watching to make sure that everything was going well. The tour group was respectful, punctual and were great people to be with. RS has great local guides who know what they are talking about without any notes. Francesca in Rome and Gaetano the 3rd generation Pompeii guide.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Sassi di Matera with its cave dwellings that are thriving businesses, hotels and restaurants. The view from our hotel door was stunning. The boat ride along the Gargano Peninsula and the coach ride back along the steep and very winding roads."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Having an enjoyable group of people to travel with and an excellent guide in Sarah, plus sunny weather (possibly a little too hot at times) are some of the ingredients we had in making for a very good tour. And I thought most of the local guides, starting with Francesca were excellent in providing context to what we were seeing.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I remember gasping many times on the tour, but they tend to be a bit of a blur at the moment. I remember how surprisingly delicious that limon gelato that we made tasted. I remember the sense of awe from seeing the ruins, initially at Hadrians Villa and then at Pompeii. The field at Hadrian’s was so vast and seemed so peaceful after leaving Rome, and provided a little time to consider my small and privileged place in the universe. The boat ride through the caves in Vieste was also memorable."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

My first Rick Steves tour was exactly as described in the the on-line tour description. Many amazing experiences with local expert guides; accommodations were unique experiences, always clean, modest, adequate, sometimes amazing; as expected, physically strenuous at times with uneven terrain, and very warm temperatures.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Swimming in both the Adriatic Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea; looking at the coast from the warm seas."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Alfredo, tour guide, was wonderful, fellow travelers were great and we had a great time. However, I think I enjoy the Tuscany region as well as Florence and Venice more as destinations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Metera! I was fascinated by the cave dwellings."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our first RS tour and we enjoyed it immensely. We learned so much on the tour than we would have on our own. We hadn’t traveled in years so this was a nice way to dive back in to traveling. Our guide was so friendly, interesting, and funny. Thank you!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I was amazed by the Ancient Greek temples at Paestum and the ruins of Pompeii. Both were unforgettable."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The southern Italy tour was excellent. I enjoyed every city we visited and was amazed by the history and beauty of the country. I had never travelled south of Rome prior to this trip. We had an excellent tour guide and the best local guides.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many but I especially loved Matera, Pompei and Paestum. Our home dinner in Sorrento with Teresa and Luigi was so fun and learning the history of Matera from our local guide was the best as was Gitano’s tour of Pompei."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

After navigating Europe on our own for seven other 2+ week trips, we decided to try our first two RS tours ever back-to-back. An awesome guide (Alfredo) + a fantastic itinerary + our very talented bus driver (Giuseppe) = a trip concentrated on having fun and absorbing history, beautiful art, architecture, and nature. An unexpected bonus was how much we enjoyed the other travelers on our tour and sharing new experiences with them and talking about other European trips we had taken.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Matera and the Amalfi Coast & Sorrento (Ravello in particular) were true wow moments for me. We hired a private driver on our free day and he drove us to Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. I also was wowed by Francesca’s very informative tour of the Capitoline Museum, our tour of Pompeii and Alfredo’s Napoli (he taught us to say Napoli not Naples, as Naples is in Florida!) Napoli has beautiful architecture and a long fascinating history, and I hope to see it continue to be regenerated."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

After the initial required negative test result for COVID, I was able to relax and embrace the tour's itinerary. The South Italy tour included historical places such as Pompeii as well as popular tourist locations like the Amalfi coast, which was the main reason my husband and I chose this tour. I appreciated being able to walk the streets and see for myself what I had previously only read about in books.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Matera: I did not know anything about the city, except that location-wise, it had been used on a couple of well-known movies. Walking from the bus toward our hotel, Matera seemed like any other city of similar size as we walked past bakeries, restaurants, piazza shops, etc. Our guide kept saying, "You guys have no idea..." She led us to an overlook, and ....there before and below our eyes, was an ancient city built into the sides of cliffs, under the newer city. WOW!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

With COVID, heat, masks and pickpockets ever on the mind, I entered Southern Italy with a cautious attitude, leaving a fondness for that area. Our 4th RS tour continued the the expected level of excellence starting with our guide, Lisa. She knew Italy very well, giving info often repeated by local guides, plus she had a great sense of humor, monitored the participant’s needs and adjusted as needed. Some of the better hotels, and excellent local attractions. Well programmed throughout.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Matera for starters. Coming to the edge and peering into the hidden city was majestic as well as sleeping in a cave. Benissimo! Vieste boat ride provided a thrilling look at the coastline and the surprise of sneaking into the caves. Let’s not forget the downpouring rain and flash flood. What a thrilling experience. Pompei, Positano and Sorrento were exceptional. And truthfully, the tour members who were punctual, respectful and great people to be with made the tour truly memorable. A wow tour!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Informative, varied, hitting highlights in each of the cities/areas visited. A sense of family bonding was fostered and encouraged among tour participants. I gained understanding of Italian geography, history, cuisine, culture: a better sense of what life is like today in Italy, as well as knowing more of Italy's past.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"When reflecting on the tour, what left me with the greatest sense of Italian life today was dinner at Luigi and Teresa's comfortable home. (Hope I've correctly remembered names!) Home cooking was delicious, many items home grown, but seeing how an Italian family interacts on a project was heart-warming and eye-opening. Multiple generations, extended family, joined together with warmth and seeming pleasure to serve guests, then washed and dried dishes by hand. I was well fed and felt blessed."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour was well organized and led by Lisa, a very friendly and knowledgeable guide.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I enjoyed the entire tour. Pompeii, Matera, Sorento, and Capri were definitely highlights."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

One great day after another, full of surprising findings, visiting places a lone traveler would never find, experiencing history, culture, local styles, great meals, wonderful vistas. We learned so much, but also had time to enjoy so much. Tour was expertly organized, diverse in activities such that absolutely everyone would have many wow moments that hit their soul. I have been non-stop talking about this since arriving home. Thanks RS folks.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Just one is, indeed, unfair, but the combination of Pompeii and the follow-up museum in Naples where the artifacts are stored was exceptional and the local guides were spectacularly interesting for all of us. Of course, landing in the cave dwellings of Materia was absolutely a surprise moment I totally loved as well (and the spa). And, many more ... "wow" was a word used daily."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Great tour guides, both leaders and local guides. Hotels were uniformly high quality - comfortable beds, good wifi, good AC. There were several tour members who were not up to the physical challenge of the trip - either they overestimated their abilities or the challenge was not clear to them. All the destinations we're worthwhile, though I thought the Spanish Quarter in Naples was nuts and detracted from the quality of the trip.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Two WOWS: Pompeii was excellent. We had done a self guided tour several years ago but got WAY MORE out of Guitano's explanation of the city. The other WOW was a side trip we took to Ravello when we stayed in Maiori. We thoroughly enjoyed the charm, views and people there"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Wonderful guides, wonderful new people, great educational opportunities

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Boat tours; Amalfi coast, Isle of Capri"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Pompeii and the diorama depicting the site at the Naples Archeological Museum"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our Southern Italy Tour was everything we'd hoped it would be an more. Our guide, Bea, was absolutely amazing. The group gelled together like family under her guidance and it made the entire trip all that more pleasant.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The visit to the Jewish Synagogue Memorial showing the cities, names and dates of 80,000 Jews that had been murdered. The experience brought several of out tour group to tears and we hugged each other for support and bonded in a way that I have not experienced on other tours."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

This was our 4th Rick Steves' tour. It overlapped with our 3rd tour, Venice, Florence, Rome. Our total of both tours was three weeks which turned out to be long for us. We were the oldest people on both tours. At ages 76 and 74 and with some injuries, we discovered that the tours were strenuous for us. We may be too old to pull our suitcases up stairs & streets to get to the bus. However, WE WERE SO GLAD WE DID IT. Our tour guide Beatrice was absolutely wonderful & we loved Jennifer too.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Pompeii was absolutely wonderful. The local guide told us so much about how advanced the Romans.were with their water systems, roads, sidewalks, & bathing. We wondered why their accomplishments were not carried forward. He said that it is like the Taliban in Afghanistan now. Conquerors come in and destroy progress. We loved the buffalo farm The buffalos eat as much as they want & get massages, They are trained to go to an automatic milking machine. A very good life and great mozzarella."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Given the overhang of COVID it was good to be on the road again in a RSE bus full of travelers led by an enthusiastic guide.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"All of the art featured in the Naples Archaeological Museum."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was simply wonderful from beginning to end. Our guide, Bea Richichi, was intelligent, thoughtful, considerate, and lots of fun! You could tell how much she enjoyed sharing her homeland with us and went out of her way to make sure that we were able to do the things that we wanted to do in our “free” times. I’m so happy to have met her.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So hard to pick just one. I totally enjoyed the Capitoline Museum tour with Francesca but it was seeing the “Veiled Christ” in Naples that actually gave me goosebumps and brought tears to my eyes. Pompeii was haunting and then to see the artwork, mosaics and other items from there in Naples was simply stunning."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

My guide Bea was outstanding. She made the trip fun. She was helpful and took charge. Jen was a great support. The tour was well designed and well executed. Some rain fell and things were reorganized but we did not miss a beat. Local guides, activities and group meals were all very nice.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to pick as the whole tour was outstanding. But some highlights were Matera, for me as a very magical place. The family meal in Sorrento was really special and our local guide in Rome, Francesca delivered historical information in a heartfelt and human centered way. My wife even cried over the stories Roman lives from 2000 years ago."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We had a great trip and our tour guide was excellent. She was very helpful and communicated to us clearly what there was to see and do in each day plus she was just fun!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to choose since each town we visited had something special but I guess it would be the Cave houses in Matera. I had never heard anything about this area so it was really very cool to experience something that few people in the US have heard about."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first time south of Rome although we have been in the North numerous time. While certainly different, it was just as enjoyable.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Although the historical sites like Pompeii and Matera were impressive and unforgettable I think the family dinner we had with Luigi and Teresa was my WOW moment"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Well organized & really fun locales

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Dinner with a local family in Sorrento. Great food, great wine, and great company! Our hosts were wonderful! It was a really special evening."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Saw amazing places. Enjoyed experiencing local culture and learning about Southern Italy's rich history. Awesome tour guides!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Too many! Maybe the family dinner in Sorrento"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was the trip of a lifetime for our 50th wedding anniversary and it was way beyond our expectations!! This was also our first trip with a tour group and we loved it. Our guide, Lisa, went over and beyond for us and even arranged a yoga class by the pool. We especially loved all the local guides that took us on walking tours and museums. The demonstrations; pasta making, gelato making and tasting were wonderful. One of the highlights was the musical performance in Naples! Such a treat

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The boat trip to the Isle of Capri and going in the Blue Grotto as well as the private musical performance in Naples."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We've visited countries in Europe several times in the past but given the uncertainty of Covid restrictions, we decided that it would be better to book the Southern Italy tour through Rick Steves. In the event of any Covid "issues," we felt confident that the Rick Steves organization would, "have our back." No Covid issues occurred for us fortunately, but we were blown away by the way the tour was conducted. Our tour guide, Lisa, was terrific. Great fun and very accommodating.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Blue Grotto."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The itinerary really rounded out our understanding of Italy

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Matera at night"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Had been to Italy before but this was seeing it from a whole different light. Would never have discovered cities such as Matera or Viesta on my own.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"the city of Matera. What a beautiful place with such history. Walking through the Stassi's and seeing how people had/have lived there was really a WOW moment for me."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Lisa was an absolute joy and pleasure. I learned so much about our sites and Italian history. She was so pleasant and tried to accommodate the various requests from everyone. She helped us get a private boat tour around Capri and it was stands down the best time we all had as a group. I could have used a bit more downtime especially towards the end of the tour, but everything was so wonderfully done, I didn’t want to miss anything.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The slightly off-the-beaten path places we went to like Vieste and Matera. And the view from the top of the chair lift on Anacapri. But also Francesca was a fabulous guide in Rome and the local guide in Matera was fantastic also. They were ALL great. I feel like I get great value for the cost of this trip."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Not crazy about the amount of bus time, but realize a lot of distance needed to be traveled. Mask for long bus journey was uncomfortable.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Dinner with local family outside Sorrento. I wanted to speak with Luigi and Teresa and their granddaughter for hours"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Since this was one of the first tours after Covid, we were extremely pleased with the events and hotels. Our tour guide Catrina was extremely adaptable when things changed on the fly. We felt this tour was everything we expected and more

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Honestly, this would be extremely hard because there were so many. I loved the boat ride into the our coastal town, Pompei was unbelievable."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

In spite of continued stress dealing with COVID 19 (Will I pass my test to join my tour? Will I pass my test to come home?) I was so glad we traveled on the Best of South Italy tour this year. The places we went, stayed, toured and yes - ate were absolutely amazing!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our final night in Sorrento an Italian family hosted all of us in their home and served us an amazing home cooked meal. At the end of the meal, all of us tour members and the family members joined together in a very rousing rendition of That’s Amore. It was an unforgettable experience and it made me realize that in spite of everything that can appear to be going wrong in the world today, we all share a common humanity that nourishes our souls."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I had the most wonderful experience on this tour. It was my first but definitely not my last. Our guide was knowledgeable and helpful and the cities we visited were awesome.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing Vieste, Matera, and Pompeii."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first travel out of the country since November 2019. We had originally scheduled this trip for September 2020 so were so excited as May 2022 arrived and the trip was still on. Covid was still a factor. But we were willing to do whatever it took! Even with the inconvenience of the mask requirement on our flights, having to wear the masks in our group meetings and in museums, it was so great to be back in Europe. The required Covid test for rentry to the US was easily done

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So hard to choose: Matera views as evening fell; boat ride along the Amalfi Coas, in and out of caves"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I love Italy and it was so nice to tour the southern portion for the first time. Sarah is the best and was extremely knowledgeable and helpful

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Capri was amazing! So beautiful and blue waters!"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

The tour would have been outstanding if some tour members had not resisted wearing masks while on the bus.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I loved Matera"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The quintessential RS Tour, days filled with exceptional sights and flavors of Italy. Fellow travelers were engaged and open, local guides provided in depth background and our tour leader Patricia could not have done another thing to perfect this trip. We were grateful to her for facilitating our journey, making what we feared impossible into a trip we’ll always treasure.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Upon reflection, the enduring elements of the human condition. The ruins of Pompeii helped underscore what our hometown might have looked like if Mt.St. Helens had been closer. Our guide Francesca in Rome suggested we view Pompeii thinking about life a week earlier. Doing so made the experience more personal, particularly when examining artifacts in Naples. By providing this context for the tour each site added to the story."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Froom beginning to end, we had a wonderful time. The tour was made especially memorable because of our tour guide, Patricia.Vies

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Vieste. It was my favorite city on the tour."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Fun tour with a great tour guide. Most locations were great and the expert guides at the sights were often exceptional. Food was fantastic. We also enjoyed the mix of planned activities and free time to explore on our own. Some of the hotels were disappointing though.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The dinner in Sorrento at a local family home was a high point for us. Great setting with the full group around a huge table and dinner served family style. The host family was wonderful and the food was superb! All together a great and memorable experience."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

The best part of the tour was definitely our guide, Patricia. She was knowledgable, flexible, funny, and adaptable to any circumstance. This was especially appreciated due to the Covid situation. My least favorite city was Naples. I understand the historical significance, but the city itself is dirty, and crowded. Our hotel was clean and perfectly located in the center of town.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Pompeii was a highlight, but the unexpected joy was seeing the Veiled Christ. We had never heard of it, and It was an exceptional piece of art."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Everything from the start was outstanding. I think this was in large part due to the great planning of this tour and the amazing execution of the plans by Patricia. Her ability to interact with all the individuals like hotel,attraction and restaurant staff was a perfect balance of persistence and absolute kindness.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our boat tour in Vieste was canceled due to high waves but Patricia arranged unexpected boat tour of The Amalfi coat."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Liked the trip very much. Other travelers were pleasant. Tour guide was top notch fabulous! Hotel locations very nice.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our family dinner with Therese and Luigi was the highlight of the trip! Such a wonderful experience!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Pompeii. Since grade school I have wanted to visit Pompeii and it did not disappoint. Our local guide was outstanding."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

this was my 8th rs tour. all are wonderful. tour director was fantastic. guides were incredible. tour activities are point on. hotels great. food is always fantastic. the surprises along the way like the treats are a plus. the people taking the tours are always so nice & so interesting. i normally make friends for life. got to see out of way places i have never seen. places i have seen before were like new since i got to see another side of them. fantastic again. thank you mike

Favorite "WOW" moment

"hard to pick. would have to be one of these: the hotel at vieste overlooking the adriatic. i had a balcony view. i love the beach so i like being able to take an elevator down to the sandy beach. matera the cave city was incredible. very scenic. loved the cave hotel. gorgeous at night. the naples archelogical museum was incredible with the sculpture & mosaics. hard to pick one, but go with the first. balcony view came with the orange moon rising over the adriatic."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first Rick Steves tour and we were pleasantly surprised how organized, well planned and orchestrated all components of the tour were.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our private boat tour of the Amalfi coast with informative and humorous commentary by Patricia, our tour leader was relaxing, enjoyable, and highly memorable."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Very good tour. The less touristy places were the best; Vieste and Matera. The pace was a little much. I am 72, in good shape, but 30 miles of walking in the heat was tough.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Wow moment was my ocean front balcony room in Vieste. Also, the buffalo farm. The scenery across southern Italy was outstanding."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

As usual, Rick Steve's, his Tour Guides, and local guides did not disappoint. We were lucky enough to have Karin Kibby for the first part of our Tour and Ann Long for the second half. The locals in the small towns/villages we visited were so hospitable and willing to make our stay that much more enjoyable.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Vieste was my favorite town to visit, Matera was unbelievable, the Trulli's in Alberobello were amazing, but my WOW moment was the Path of Lemons from Maiori to Minori was fabulous."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

After a long wait for this tour overall it was great. Great tour members but surprised we had 28 with Covid still a problem, the largest number I’ve had, it felt like too many. Due to Issues caused by Covid(not our tour) we had a change of tour guides mid tour, this upset the rhythm of the tour, one guide had not done S Italy before and I felt we lost out due to that. Our bus driver made no effort to interact with us which was disappointing. Single room in Maiori was worst room, tiny/single bed.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were several but Matera was incredible, Pompeii and the statue of the ‘Veiled Christ’ in Naples was breathtaking to see!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The group bonded quickly and became a big family, looking out for each other and sharing experiences and time together. While this was great, 28 tour members was too large to maneuver through sites and crowds. We were under the impression, based on Rick’s earlier comments, that groups were to be smaller this year. the groups were to be smaller this year. There was so much to see and learn about it was difficult to remember what you saw and did the day before. 13 days were not enough.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"This tour was full of WOW moments from the great gelato a few blocks from our Rome hotel to the amazing rugged vistas around each corner as the bus carried us throughout the tour. As in all of our nine Rick Steves it was impossible to pick just one. Starting with the Capitoline museum in Rome, followed by Hadrians Villa to the boat cruise along the Gargano coast, the Trulli houses in Alberobello, the Sassi in Matera, the Buffalo farm operated like a commercial dairy in the U.S., the Amafi coast."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Every day was filled with memorable experiences.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing the Medieval streets of Vieste for the first time."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my 4th RS tour and it was just as memorable as the others. Great, central hotels, good food, nice tour mates and fantastic guides that bring history to life (both local and the main guide).

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing Matera was more WOW than I would have thought. What a truly breathtaking city, words and images do not do it justice - it is amazing to walk through and be in the heart of. Plus we got to sleep in a cave! How cool!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our 2nd Rick Steves tour. We had never been on a 2 week vacation and were worried it'd be too long. Yes, we were tired, but it was so well organized that we could have stayed 2 more weeks. Everything (hotels, food, transportation, other travelers & especially Caterina!) was excellent. We saw places we would never have dreamed were out there. So far off the regular "tourist" path.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many. But Matera was exceptional. The history, the buildings, the people. The pictures do not do it justice, but the ones I took at night take my breath away. You really feel what it was like living in the sassi. I could have stayed there a few more days."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was so wonderful to be back on tour, especially on the South Italy tour I had been wanting to take for many years. Even though there were some hiccups along the way, they were quickly solved.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Matera was my favorite location. The cave dwellings and especially our hotel were a unique look at how people lived decades ago."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

My Southern Italy tour was a great experience following a 2 year covid shut down. Starting with a great guide, Katarina, locations, sights, meals, transportation, and the weather.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Well there were numerous wow moments of course never just one. Southern Italy as a whole is a WOW. Being allowed into the opera house to see a ballet in practice was unexpected an a wow. A family meal with Therese and Luigi and family a wow. Being taken into at least 10 grottos on our boat ride from Salerno to Maiori. Seeing Pompei with an outstanding local guide. Seeing the veiled Christ in situ. These are just a few."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We'd been to "tourist" Italy several times before and thought we knew a bit about the place. This tour taught us that we haven't even scratched the surface--so many wholly new, wholly unexpected, and wholly delightful experiences!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We approached this question by asking ourselves, "OK, what place, or what adventure, would we like to re-experience?" There are many, but Matera topped the list. it blends a bit of Cappadocia, a bit of Ronda, a bit of Jerusalem, a bit of Mesa Verda, and, of course, a lot of southern Italy in a special light (a "Cezanne light" if you will) all its own. The city at twilight is mesmerizing."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We enjoyed a number of one-a-kind experiences during this off the beaten path tour: a dozen grottos in one boat trip; carnivale in Maiori; a family dinner hosted by a Sorrento family.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The veiled Christ in Naples closely followed by our guide instructing the bus driver in how to find our hotel in downtown Naples."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Every day was fun and interesting. Route was well laid out. Tour guide was the best ever!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Probably boat ride along Amalfi Coast. But there were also many top experiences even though I had be to Rome, Hadrian's Villa and Pompey before."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Caterina guided us safely through this tour which featured beautiful locations and one-of-a-kind experiences.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It is hard to choose just one. Matera with its caves and the boat ride on the Gargano really stand out."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This trip exceeded my expectations and was more than I imagined. The amount of history I learned from our guide Sarah, and all of the local guides was impressive. This was my first time coming to Italy and I am so glad I chose this as the way to do it. I saw more places and experienced more things than I would have doing it alone.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There are so many, but I think my favorite was seeing and walking in Matera. I did a hike with our guide and we got see the whole Sassie area from afar, it is breathtaking. How old the region is and still very much alive and intact."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a wonderful time. We saw places we would have never found on our own and the guide, Sara was excellent. The logistics and organization were flawless. The tour was heavy on ruins, monuments, museums, churches and galleries. I feel like I took a graduate course on classical history and art appreciation. The itinerary is very busy-6 cities with 2 nights each and lots of walking which was good for me but perhaps not all.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Among the many highlights, I found myself most moved by the combination of the Pompei tour and the National Archeological Museum in Napoli where many of the artifacts were kept. Seeing how well Roman citizens lived 2000 years and and how advanced they were was eye opening."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The amount of ground covered and the variety of sights experienced would only have been possible if I had been there before and wanted to revisit. There is no way to to see this well rounded portion of Italy without previous experience and not doing the driving was key.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"As hard as this is to pinpoint one thing I would say the Cappella Sansevero in Naples with the Veiled Christ. I was knocked out by the tour of the Opera House in Naples as well. It was a surprise. The tour of the Jewish Ghetto leading up to The Capitoline Museum in Rome was a serious "wow" moment in history."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our wonderful guide, Sara and our bus driver showed us fascinating South Italy. Our local guides added their knowledge to teach our group about the history, culture and geography of each region. The Truilli, Sassi, Paestum and Pompei were favorites. The beauty of the Amalfi coast was wonderful, but I was really taken with Vieste. Loved the coastal boat ride on the Adriatic. I recommend Mondo Guide boat tour to Capri. Easy and was great fun. Enjoyed the small concert in Naples and museums.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Pompeii. Our guided tour by Gaetano was excellent. I did not realize it covered such a large area and that there were so many parts of buildings, the theater, frescos, and mosaics. Fascinating. Another wow was the view of Amalfi Coast from the beautiful gardens at Villa Cimbrone in Ravello. And the food, wine and gelato."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Sarah Corfield was an outstanding tour guide. Her communication skills, awareness and attentiveness were excellent. She handled the few challenges that did arise competently and in a very calm manner. The tour itinerary was well planned and provided a wonderful Southern Italy experience. The accommodations were excellent and in line with what is expected in a Rick Steves tour, local, very comfortable but not extravagant. The local guides were excellent, with the exception of Naples.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The "wow" moment for me was the boat ride from Vieste. The water, landscape and serenity wowed me in comparison to the Amalfi coast towns which were great, but crowded. Pompeii was another "wow: experience. Naples was gritty as advertised but the museums and personality of the city had an exciting energy. The concert by Napulitanata was an uplifting surprise."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

It was a great tour. Our first international trip since the covid outbreak. The need to test negative in order to get back into the US put a slight damper on the trip, but everyone did their best to stay healthy and it was still great to travel again.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Sansvero Chapel in Naples was extraordinary."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Fun exciting tour. VERY compatible group.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Veiled Christ sculpture in Naples"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

It was outstanding except for the effort to get home. There was considerable anxiety, misery and pain caused by the required neg COVID test to return home. Several failed and could not go home as planned. Rick Steves had done everything they could but this did unfortunately taint the experience

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Pompeii"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour checked all the boxes for history, culture, food, lodging, weather, free time, scheduled time, etc. that I have come to expect from Rick Steves' tours (well, the weather was not in their control!). This was our sixth RS tour and we have two more scheduled this year so that tells you what we think about their tours. We do a lot of walking and exploring on our own and RS tours allows us to do that.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were too many "wow" moments as each day got progressively better. I was impressed with Vieste's many grottos on our "wet and exciting" boat ride, visiting and staying in Matera, visiting Alberobello, and the guided tour in Pompeii. We chose to visit Capri in our free time which I'm glad we did. Every day in Italy was a "wow" moment and every direction we turned, wherever we were, was a "wow" moment. I would do it all again!"

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Very positive experience, except for the stress of covid testing at both ends of the trip: before the trip started (am I going to get to Italy, take the test, and not be able to take the tour) and the stress at the end of the trip (am I going to be prevented from returning?)

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I would say these are the top things that stand out: 1. The town of Matera - very interesting, almost surreal 2. The hotel in Matera, I really liked that one 3. The home-cooked dinner in Sorrento 4. The lunch at the Buffalo Mozzarella farm 5. The farewell group dinner in Naples. One of the best restaurant meals while on a tour, fantastic."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We are RS alumni 9 times over. This is a great tour with a wide variety of experiences and adventures along with seeing many unique cities and villages. Excellent food with nice Hotels. The many experienced and talented “local guides” really add to the Tour. A RS tour is only as good as the main guide, this Tour was lead by Ann Long, a super star! Go prepared for a wide variety of experiences and conditions…be fit…be healthy! Southern Italy is very different than Northern Italy…enjoy!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"This is always a difficult question/answer…this Tour is no different. This Tour is loaded with “wow” moments…and as always different strokes for different folks! Great local people must be one of my “wow” moments! The boat rides were very memorable. Seeing the water buffalo and the visit to their facility was outstanding. We chose to spend our day off on the Amalfi coast on Capri and didn’t regret a moment over than We’d wished there was a way to spend a night there high up on the Island."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my first guided tour and I felt it was fantastic. We were able to go plates and see things that we could not have experienced on out own.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The high view of Roman Forum from the Capitoline Museum was a WOW moment for me. We have walked through the Forum previously, but this was amazing."

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

Italy is a beautiful country and many things to see. With that said, I thought the four was a little slow. It felt as if some days were “stretched” to fill time.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Pompeii was my “WOW” moment."

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I enjoyed the tour. Our guide, Ann, was great. I am not sure if sleeping in the caves of Matera was on my bucket list but I’m glad I won’t be doing it again.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The massive amount of lemon trees on the Amalfi Coast that were tiered into the hills. Absolutely stunning"

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

The tour was amazing and exhausting. Towards the end we determined that we wouldn't do another tour like this. The early morning hustle to get to the bus or tour seemed much harder this time. Wearing a mask all the time (we're fans of masks) was also hard. I'd urge a different method other than the day long bus ride to Vieste, or skip the town. We didn't think it worthy of a stop. The other stops were amazing. Ann was wonderful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The cave tour of Matera was fantastic."

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Ann Long was a great guide - five stars! The bus and driver were excellent. Local guides were all knowledgeable and very good. Overall the hotels did not shine.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Sassi caves were an unexpected gem when you found out more about how the area was left behind civilization and they didn’t even know how far behind they were."