Naples, Italy

Charming, ancient, enthralling...

Set around the beautiful bay of Naples and lying in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, Naples is the third-largest city in Italy and capital of the south. One of Europe’s most densely populated cities, it is chaotic, overcrowded, dirty and noisy. And yet this is part of its unique charm.

With charismatic narrow streets overhung with endless rows of washing, ancient churches, a medieval university, noisy street markets and hundreds of cafés, bars and restaurants, Naples is an unforgettable experience. Visit the city’s grand cathedral – the Duomo. Originally dating from 1272, it has undergone numerous alterations. The Chiesa dei Girolamini, a beautiful baroque church with two facades, lies directly opposite. Don’t miss the Chiesa del Gesu Nuovo on the piazza of the same name. Dating from the 16th century, the church is one of Naples’ finest examples of Renaissance architecture. Wander north of the Spaccanapoli district and visit the Museo Archeologico Nazionale. It boasts one of the most comprehensive collections of Graeco-Roman artifacts in the world, including some discovered at Pompeii and Herculaneum. It also houses the Borgia collection of Etruscan and Egyptian relics.

The beautifully located Castel Sant’Elmo is well worth a visit. Offering spectacular views out over the bay and the city itself, this star-shaped castle was built under Spanish vice-regal rule in 1538. The Palazzo Reale di Capodimonte is even more striking. Dating from 1738, it was the residence of the Bourbon King Charles III and is surrounded by what was once the hunting ground of the aristocracy. Today, the palazzo is home to the Museo e Gallerie di Capodimonte which houses an outstanding collection of Renaissance paintings. Bellini, Caravaggio, Botticelli and El Greco are all represented.

Stroll in the Via Floridiana, the lush public park spilling down from the Vomero to Mergelina and check out the oldest opera house in Italy, the Teatro San Carlo in the elegant Piazza Trento e Trieste. Experience its perfect acoustics at the ballets, operas and concerts held here year-round. The pizza was invented in Naples in the 18th century – make sure you sample some and other delicious Neapolitan treats such as calzone and misto di frittura. Seafood is also excellent here. Head for the many restaurants around Spaccanapoli and Stazione Centrale and the area around Piazza Amedeo. Bars, clubs, cafés and live music venues are also well represented around the Piazza Amedeo.