Today you have the option to visit the abandoned city of Pompeii, a Roman settlement that was frozen in time when Mount Vesuvius erupted. Well-preserved buildings, artwork and pottery offer a glimpse into the lives of the ancient Romans. There’s also an option to hire a private guide for the ruins, as the site could easily be explored over an entire day due to sheer size and content (the additional cost of a private guide will be split between the group). Another possible activity is a visit to the Mount Vesuvius National Park. Reach the volcano by taking a public bus (approximately 30 minutes) and then a short walk (200 metres), which requires a moderate level of fitness.
Although it's not an overly strenuous walk, if you have any health issues you may want to run this past your doctor before leaving home. At 1,200 metres, it will be a lot colder than sea level so you'll need to bring a fleece, rain coat, hat, sunscreen, good walking shoes and lots of water with you. The return trip should take approximately three hours.
Notes: The cost of your entry ticket to Mount Vesuvius will include the services of a volcanology guide and, if you're lucky enough to visit on a clear day, you'll have incredible views over the Bay of Naples and into the crater. Although Mt Vesuvius is still considered to be an active volcano, the last eruption was in 1944 and there's no sign of lava. If you plan to visit many archaeological sites while in the Amalfi region, you should consider purchasing a Campania Arte card annual pass. For details please refer to www.campaniartecard.it/en