Note: This was originally written as a travel guide for my host travel agency, Fora, which can be found at this link.
Curator’s Insight
Napoli, or Naples Italy if you’re not feeling too poetic, is a city with more history than your nonna’s recipe book. Passed around like a hot potato between empires, it’s emerged as a powerhouse perched between the Mediterranean’s blues and the looming Mount Vesuvius. The influences of Greeks, Normans, French, and Spanish? They’re everywhere. So, in the midst of the lively chaos this port city throws your way, just embrace La Dolce Vita, and you’ll get the hang of it!
Things to Dive Into
1. Napoli Sotteranea: Let’s time travel back to 600 BCE with some Greek origins at Napoli Sotteranea. It’s like digging into the city’s OG roots.
2. Subterranean Wonders: Explore San Gennaro Catacombs, a tunnel maze with 3,000 graves, and Fontanelle Cemetery, an old quarry turned 17th-century burial site after a plague hit.
3. Castle Hopping: Castel Nuovo and Castel dell’Ovo are the head honchos here. One’s built by Aragonese and Spanish rulers in 1279, and the other’s got a legend involving a magical egg buried by poet Virgil.
4. Archaeological Marvels: The Archaeological Museum of Naples boasts a Roman artifact collection that’ll make your history-loving heart skip a beat.
5. Historic Streets: Via Tribunali in the Forcella district is a stroll back in time. Don’t miss Pio Monte della Misericordia, where a Caravaggio painting sits pretty.
6. Kitschy Alley Adventure: Via San Gregorio Armeno is a treasure trove of kitschy souvenirs. Morning vibes? Discover hidden cloisters at San Gregorio Armeno church.
7. Royal Art: The Royal Palace, designed by Spanish rulers, now houses a mishmash of tapestries, sculptures, and cool artwork.
8. Oldest Opera House Vibes: San Carlo Theatre is still kicking, hosting ballet, opera, and musical performances. Europe’s oldest opera theatre, no less.
Nom Nom Spots
1. Caffè Mexico: The city’s espresso game-changer.
2. Mimi alla Ferrovia: A no-fuss spot steeped in tradition and Neapolitan goodness.
3. Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba: World’s first pizzeria, opened in 1738. Need we say more?
4. Gino Sorbillo: Home to the infamous pizza bianca with caramelized pineapple. A taste bud adventure!
5. La Lazzara: Locally sourced goodness with a terrace for some primo people-watching.
6. Mannella Il Gelato: Family-run since ’69, their chocolate and seasonal fruit flavors are pure bliss.
7. Quattro Passi: The city’s only 3 Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant – a real treat!
Day Trippin’
1. Island Escapes: Capri’s cool, but Ischia’s got thermal spas, and Procida’s the hidden gem for colorful buildings and chill vibes.
2. Amalfi Coast: From Positano to Ravello, explore the 13 towns & villages of the stunning Amalfi Coast. Hidden gems aplenty close to Naples Italy.
3. Pompeii & Herculaneum: Roman towns frozen in time by Vesuvius in 79AD. Visit one, then the other for a double dose of ancient vibes.
4. Royal Palace of Caserta: Bigger than Versailles, this royal palace by the House of Bourbon-Two Sicilies in the 18th century is a must-see.
Hot Spots to Crash
1. Romeo Hotel: Virtuoso vibes for a swanky stay.
2. Caruso Place Boutique & Wellness Suites: Tablet Pro-approved boutique charm.
3. Grand Hotel Parker’s: Small Luxury Hotels’ gem within.
4. Grand Hotel Vesuvio: A Leading Hotels of the World masterpiece.
Ready for a taste of Naples’ dolce vita? Dive into history, feast on pizza, and explore the breathtaking coast. Naples, Italy – it’s a journey you won’t forget. La vita è bella, after all!
Ready to plan your trip? Reach out to me!
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