My husband and I are planning a 3 week trip to Italy for Nov 2004. Early days yet, I know, but I'm a major trip planning geek and quickly becoming a Fodor's forum addict. I'm very excited as this will be our first time in Italy!
That being said, I was wondering if any Napoli lovers out there could provide some insight into how much time we should devote to this city. For our 3 weeks in Italy we hope to include:
Naples
Rome
Siena
Florence
Bologna
Venice

Is 3 nights in Naples enough time to comfortably see its sights, daytrip to Pompei, and give us the opportunity to have some unstructured exploring time? I want to do Napoli justice!
Thanks!

You should check the Naples archives --- there are some very good posts especially from a group of "Napoli lovers".

The Fodor guide on Naples and the Amalfi Coast is worth buying.

We spent 3 nights in Naples (on the waterfront in Santa Lucia) last October and easily could have spent 3 more (and then 3 more). I'd say that would be a minimum plus a half day in Pompeii. (Suggestion, go to Pompeii first, then visit the archeological museum in Naples).

Sounds like a wonderful trip you're planning.

Thanks, John.
Yes, I've been going gangbusters with the "search" function, and the more I read the more I think another day is needed. Naples has really caught my imagination!
BTW, how was the weather when you were there last October? We're hoping for cool and clear temperatures for early Nov, and minimal crowds at Pompeii.

Hi Kay,

Odd that you should be planning a trip similar to ours.

We have allotted 3 nights to Naples.

May I suggest that you base yourself in Florence and do Bologna and Siena as daytrips. You can also visit Lucca and Pisa as a day trip from Florence.

Enjoy your planning.

Hi ira,

Very odd, indeed, considering how Italy is so neglected by tourists! Lol! What can I say except great minds and all that!

I am actually thinking of spending 3 days in Bologna and taking daytrips to Parma and that place that begins with an F whose name I can't think of right now because I need another coffee

When do you leave for Italy, ira? I enjoy reading your posts and can't wait for that trip report!

Ferrara!

Ah, another Foodie!

We leave Saturday. I am taking 2 notebooks.

You need three full days for Naples City proper (without any side trips). With side trips, you need about 10 days.

ira: Well, neither my husband nor I have the knowledge, sophistication, or budget to be genuine "foodies", but eating in Bologna and Parma will definately be a highlight of our trip! Maybe piggies would be a more accurate description? You must be counting the hours 'till take-off- have a safe and wonderful trip!
GAC: I knew it! I'm definately thinking 4 days now, 3 for Naples and 1 for Pompeii. If only we had more time!

Weather the last week of October 2002 was very nice. Short sleeves, sandals every day (but be sure to wear good walking shoes at Pompeii because some paths are very uneven). One day it rained very hard for 10 minutes while we were on the Circumvesuviana train. After it stopped, the skies cleared and it was beautiful the rest of the day.

Do you plan to visit Capri or any of the Amalfitano towns?

Jean: unfortunately, no. We've decided to focus on cities for this trip. But missing Capri and the Amalfi Coast will give us a good reason to return someday