Today we're off for Pompeii but first, some ruins in ancient Paestrum (Campania region). This place is south of Pompeii and a great place to start our Smart Car adventures. Italy has toll roads and some do not allow you to pay with cash or credit cards, so to avoid the need for a pre-paid toll device, we tell the GPS to avoid toll roads. IT DID! Too a lot longer to get to Paestrum (about 4 hours instead of 2.5). We had a great back way drive that included parts of going down the coast and through some seemingly country areas. Would be similar to driving through the farms/orchard lands between Stockton and Angels Camp. Beautiful countryside with mountains in the background. The coastal areas had what appeared to be shipping ports. Busy looking town. We followed a narrow road that wound up the mountain past some orchards that were planted on the hillside, interesting. There were some great views of the towns below. Finally got to Paestrum, very interesting place. More money, more crowds, but interesting. There was a pretty big (for ancient times) town here. Check out the pictures.

Went in the museum afterwards, there was some really neat art pieces.

Finished up the day by going up to Pompeii and settling into our room. This was a nice ride. Pompeii is a large city with Naples nearby and a large sea port. Drove in with Mt. Vesuvius in the background and the sun setting. Our host was really nice, offering dinner. We slept early and well in-spite of the local passenger train passing right next to the house.