[...] Sorrento was my old stomping ground in the 1970's.  I used to go twice a year.  :)

The ruins at Paestum are fascinating. [...]

I've been to Sorrento 6 times but my hotel (Miramare on Via Capo) has upgraded my room and it's out of my price range now. I bet it's changed a lot since you were there!

I'm looking forward to Paestum, but I'm not sure I'm going to be very good at staying with the guide - I have a tendency to move on quickly - and I'm not very patient with stragglers either! Do they have audio guides at Paestum?

Best wishes

Sam

Sorrento was my old stomping ground in the 1970's.  I used to go twice a year.  :)

The ruins at Paestum are fascinating.  It does get very busy though.  Last time I went I wandered off on my own, and spent a lovely hour down by the church having a beer and just chilling out.

I usually stay in Sorrento so I have been along the stunning Amalfi Coast and up to the gorgeous Ravello with its amazing views - especially from the Villa Rufulo, but I really want to go to Paestum so there's a big tick in that box!

The tour of Castellabate/Santa Maria is also on my list - it's always good to know what's in walking (in flat shoes!) distance.

The rest of the time I shall be reading a lot, chilling out - hopefuly under warm skies - and practising my rusty Italian!

Thanks again :-)

Sam

Also a little pointer about a couple of things on the itinerary, unless things have changed drastically.

First day. 

Castellabate/Santa Maria.

Some cobbles and steps in Castellabate.  I would suggest flatter footwear.  🙂   Santa Maria is a nice small town, with some decent shops, and there may well be the option of coming back on the coach to the hotel, or staying on, and having lunch there.  You can either walk back to San Marco on the wonderful beach, or get the local bus back.  There are some bars in the town, and a couple of restaurants on the beach. They may still be open when you go. 

Paestum.

The walking amongst the ruins is on gravel paths mainly.  It's quite commercialised there, and will be busy, but again there are some quite reasonably priced shops. 

Elea Velia. 

Some inclines and declines, but I can't remember many steps.  Very interesting place. 

San Marco.  This is a lovely village with friendly locals.  There are a couple of small supermarkets for essentials, a really nice church which is worth a look around, and what I am told is a good restaurant by the church.  The ice cream/bar/snack place up the steps from the harbour is wow! :D

If you go to Amalfi and Ravello (and it is certainly worth it for the drive alone, if the weather is good), be prepared for it to be very, very busy.  Awesome places. 

If I can help more please let me know.  🙂

Please see below provisional itinerary:

Day 1

Depart the UK on your flight to Naples today.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in San Marco di Castellabate.

Day 2

Half day included tour of the area which will introduce you to the charming coastal resort of Santa Maria di Castellabate and its hilltop counterpart, Castellabate. Your afternoon is at leisure.

Day 3

Included a three quarter day excursion to see the remains at Paestum in the company of a Local Guide. After visiting Paestum you will have the opportunity to sample some locally produced mozzarella cheese at a nearby farm.

Day 4

Optional three quarter day excursion on a scenic drive through the Cilento countryside, seeing some delightful historic villages that nestle among the beautiful landscape.

Alternatively, spend a day at leisure, simply stay at the hotel making use of the pool or beach, and maybe book a treatment in the spa.

Day 5

Half day included excursion to the site of the ancient Greek ruined city of Elea Velia In the company of a Local Guide. This afternoon you’ll return to your hotel where you can relax and enjoy its facilities.

Day 6

Optional full day excursion which features a drive along the stunning Amalfi Coast to the towns of Amalfi and Ravello.

Day 7

Included a half day excursion to Salerno.

Return to the hotel for a free afternoon before a farewell get-together and dinner in the hotel this evening.

Day 8

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.

Please could you tell me on which days the excursions will be and what they cover.

Many thanks

Sam

Non vedo l'ora!