Today we’re sharing the experiences of Warren, who is part of our Marketing team and a co-creator of Napleswise, an online Naples and Campania travel guide, during a wintery travel day in December. Italy is often thought of as a summer destination, but his day is a great example of why traveling closer to the holidays can be incredibly rewarding:

Reaching Pompeii

“Last December, I planned a simple day trip through Campania to see how the region feels in winter. I left early, stepping out from Piazza Dante while most of Naples was still quiet. The walk toward the historic center took me through streets that are normally full of activity; Christmas Alley, Spaccanapoli, and the narrow ancient Greek grid that connects them. At that time of day, and at that time of year, they were nearly empty.”

“Under the colorful Christmas lights a few trucks were making deliveries, but otherwise the city felt unusually calm. It set the tone for the day: familiar places, but under winter conditions that changed the experience entirely.

I reached Napoli Centrale in time for the early train to Pompeii. The ride was short, and I arrived just before the site opened. Being first in line meant I was the first person through the entrance. In peak season, it’s common to find crowds at the main gate and large tour groups forming within minutes of opening. In December, it was the opposite.

I walked into the archaeological park with no one ahead of me and only a handful of people arriving behind me.”

Exploring Pompeii

“I moved through the ancient streets toward several of the major landmarks, including the Forum, and found them completely empty. No groups, no cruise excursions speaking through microphones, no lines to step around. December is the low season, and the difference is significant: you can hear your own footsteps, and you can stop to read signs or study details without needing to make space for others.

The weather helped too. The sky was clear, visibility was excellent, and a light breeze kept the temperature comfortable – cool enough to walk for hours without fatigue.”

“Over the next three hours, I covered most of the site. Pompeii is extensive, but I only saw around fifty people total as I explored, which is almost nothing. This made navigation easy; I could take any path I wanted, double back to revisit areas, and take photos without waiting. It reinforced why winter is one of the most practical times to visit: access is simpler, and the overall experience is more enjoyable.”

Traveling on to Sorrento

“After finishing at Pompeii, I returned to the station and caught the train to Sorrento. Travel times are short in this area, so it’s an easy combination. I arrived just in time for a reservation at Inn Bufalito, a restaurant I try to visit whenever I’m in Sorrento. In spring, summer and early autumn, it’s often full, and booking ahead is necessary. In December, the pace is slower. The dining room was relaxed, the service felt unrushed, and the entire meal had a more local, everyday feel.”

“The rest of the afternoon was spent walking through Sorrento. The Christmas lights were up, and the streets had a steady but not overwhelming level of activity. I met friends for coffee – many of whom work in tourism and have more flexible schedules in winter – and took time to shop for gifts without the pressure that comes with peak-season foot traffic.

The combination of cooler weather and fewer visitors makes the town easier to move through, especially around the main piazza where it’s typically crowded.”

Returning Home to Naples

“By late afternoon, temperatures had dropped noticeably, and once it became fully dark I made my way back to the train station for the return trip to Naples. The journey was simple and on time, ending a day that highlighted the practical advantages of exploring Campania in December: reduced crowds, comfortable weather, reliable transport, and the chance to experience places that are usually busy in a far more accessible way.”

Showing you another side of this beautiful country is what our Italian tours are all about. Join us in Naples and Sorrento to get to know this region better, trust Sarah’s local knowledge as she leads a Rome staycation in winter or discover the magic of the northern region of Piemonte.