Ruff

DH and I are traveling to Italy in January 2009. We like walking around and enjoying the unique ambiance of large cities and small towns. We like history and art, and love learning. We're experienced travelers, and--in Italy--have visited Venice three times, Florence once and Stresa once. So, this time, it is Rome and Naples definitely, and the Amalfi Coast, maybe. If we were to spend some nights in Sorrento following some nights in Naples, is there sufficient public transportation from Sorrento to other towns in the nearby area in January? Or should we rent a car? Is everything so closed down in places like Ravello or Positano that just wandering through the towns will be bleak and uninviting? Thanks!

nytraveler

On the Amalfi Coast many hotels and restaurants will be closed. The local bus down the coast will still be running - but days are short and, frankly, the towns aren't that cute in rain and chilly weather - and there's not so much to do indoors.

If you want to see Pompeii you could spend a couple of nights in Sorrento - a larger town with more open - and do Pompeii one day and take a bus down the coast another. I wouldn't plan on longer than that - unless you like visiting empty seaside resorts in midwinter.

WebVisionItaly

Given your interests, you'll love the Bay of Naples area. It is full of history, art, and there is plenty to learn.

Everyone knows about Pompeii, but what the ancient mansions in Stabiae:

http://www.webvisionitaly.com/catego...p;ref_item=175

The Greek Doric Temples in Paestum:

http://www.webvisionitaly.com/catego...p;ref_item=201

During January I'd plan on staying in Naples the entire time and play it by ear.

On one or two of the nice days take a boat to Sorrento, Capri, Positano and Amalfi.

Naples is an absolutely fabulous city. Wonderful food, culture, and shopping. The archeological museum is a must see. Opera house is an experience.

See plenty of video about the Campania region here:

http://www.webvisionitaly.com/category.php?id=10

CasaDelCipresso

"the towns aren't that cute in rain and chilly weather"

I respectfully disagree...my son snapped this photo on the main street in Amalfi in Jan. http://southernitaly.files.wordpress...007/09/403.jpg

(forgive the photo quality - was taken by a 5yr old with a Fisher Price camera)

Now...you won't being seeing that in the high season besides...Decemer is full of YUMMY treats in the bakeries and nice, heartly, so. Italian meals!

I do have to agree though that Amalfi may be better as a daytrip and not a base in winter.

Valeria_82

I strongly suggest to rent a self catering apartment once in Campania, as many hotels will be closed and it would be much cheaper.

Marina di Puolo is a lively village even during winter.
You can find useful info about public transportation at http://www.summerinitaly.com/traveltips/

hope this helps!