We depart from Naples, heading to the Amalfi Coast. We have a few interesting stops along the way. A short drive after lunch takes us to the start of the Amalfi Peninsula and the town of Vietri Sul Mare. This is the major ceramic producing town of the Amalfi Coast. The key production is of the vibrantly coloured ceramics that are made using the maiolica method. We visit a manufacturer where we can see the ceramics being produced and painted, continuing a tradition that started in the 1500s. We see the incredible array of colours and creative designs of their finished product. After looking through the town of Vietri Sul Mare we make our way along the stunning Amalfi Coast road, with hairpin bends and amazing views in equal measure - you'll realise the value in having a professional driver for the trip. We reach the town of Amalfi in the early evening, where we stay for the duration of the tour. The town of Amalfi is really the heart of the Amalfi Coast – the centre of the marine republic of the 11th century, and still now it has a proud community living and working here. The depth of history here is profound, but equally it is a wonderful place to sit in the piazza, enjoy a coffee and watch the world go by. Our hotel, the Hotel Residence, is wonderfully situated on the waterfront. One side you have uninterrupted sea views, and a few steps the other way you have ‘la dolce vita’ of Italian piazza life. By staying centrally you get to really experience the vibrancy of this town. You can stroll into town whenever you like to have a gelato or browse the shops (with no shuttle bus needed like you would from hotels further from town). Outside the hotel is a swimming beach, perfect for relaxing after a day out sightseeing. Being a 4 star hotel a full range of features is included, such as wifi, air conditioning, an excellent restaurant and a cocktail bar. Tonight we dine together, having our first introduction to the cuisine of the Amalfi Coast. MEALS: DINNER (3 COURSES INCLUDING WINE)