Late in AUG we ae taking a cruise that that docks from 8AM to 11PM in Amalfi. A side trip to Pompeii can be arranged but we heard that there are other more
interesting Roman towns to see. Can anyone share their experience? Perhaps we should hire a car&driver and set off for someplace else nearby_BUT where ?

Unless antiquities are your primary interest, I would suggest that first you spend some time in the town of Amalfi, which is lovely. The entire Amalfi Coast is breathtaking. Traffic will surely be heavy that time of year, but if possible, try to see Ravello or Positano as well, just for fun. Do a little reading in a guide book to see which sounds most interesting. If I were docking for only one day in that area, I certainly wouldn't leave it to go elsewhere. You'll be wishing you had much more time there.

We were staying in Praiano, the tiny town next to Positano, and went to Pompeii from there. It took considerable travel time just from there (off season), and Amalfi is even further south. If you love history, like I do, a couple hours in Pompeii was not nearly enough! I would recommend touring the coast and trying some of the locally made lemon drink. I forget what it's called. No driving afterwards and it will cure what ails you!!

For a one day visit to Amalfi, I recommend a drive along the entire Amalfi coast over any other activity.Pompeii is interesting but if you are not
a serious history buff, it's not worth the time.
A drive by car or bus along the Amalfi coast from
Sorrento on the north to as far south as you care to go will be stunning. Sorrento is a neat town to tour.
Positano is also wonderful.
Good restaurants hang out over the cliffs with wonderful views.
It's a not to be missed experience.

Everyone is correct. Only one day then stay in Amalfi. I toured Italy for one month and spent an entire day at the Pompeii and Herculaneum ruins. Extremely interesting and the wall murals were impeccable! So much art around you. Amalfi was awesome and the food very tasty. Try going off the beaten path of tourist shops and explore. The Italians will love for you to try your Italian. Hardly any Americans speak Italian.

From experience, I can tell you that Pompeii in August is about like Phoenix...with humidity. It's a skillet. By all means, go to Amalfi if the weather in hot.