Naples is full of character. Sometimes grand and glorious, sometimes charming and rustic, this city by the sea is full of UNESCO sites as well as Cathedrals, churches and street shrines that are lit up at night. The Neapolitans aren’t a shy and retiring people – this is Italy at its most authentic.
A pizza the action
There’s more to the cuisine of Naples and Campania than just pizza. Here you can eat some of the best seafood in Italy, fresh from the sea, plus juicy olives and tomatoes.
That said, the latter are probably at their best on the local pizzas, of which the city is fiercely proud. There are those places that cleave close to tradition, and those that try to innovate. Among the most famous is L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, which offers just two varieties, and the queues outside attest to their quality. If you’re after something adventurous, follow the lines as you explore the town for fried pizza and more outlandish varieties.
High tempo history
There are thousands of years of life to be discovered in the centro storico, Naples’ old heart. The story here begins in the 9th century BC, and the ramshackle nature of the buildings, piled on top of one another, attests to layers of history. Let yourself get lost in it, chancing upon the Santa Chiara, the Catacombs of San Gennaro, and the Gothic church.
You can go armed with a checklist of big hitters, but chances are you’ll find your own piazza to cherish, your own palazzo to wander, and neighbourhood cafes and trattoria where you can sample the coffee and food that real Italians eat.
From the coast to Capri
The coastline here is famously splendid, with the sun twinkling on the water, and the sinuous rocks hiding romantic coves.
As you drive, you’ll pass quiet places to stop off, where you can really enjoy the splendid vistas. You’ll also pass Pompeii, long buried in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius – and now largely excavated to staggering effect.
Just as impressive is the unsung Herculaneum, a fishing town that was also buried in lava and which has some perfectly preserved homes and shops. Venture further along the road and you’ll reach Sorrento. Popular with honeymooners, this is sophisticated Italy in miniature, with high-class restaurants and an exuberant yet elegant vibe. Get dressed up to promenade with the locals as the sun goes down.
This is also one of the best places to catch a ferry over to the much-loved isle of Capri. There you’ll find sensational views from vantage points and half-hidden villas covered in flowers – it really is as beautiful as its reputation suggests.
Best of all, with car hire at Naples Airport you can do it all by day – and be back in the splendid city of Naples by night.
