Naples trips and vacations

This city is full of interesting legends and ancient history. On your trip to Naples, get up early and photograph the spectacular views of the Gulf of Naples at Castel dell’Ovo, named for an enchanted egg supposedly hidden by a siren for good luck. Legend has it that Hercules founded the ancient Roman town Herculaneum, now in ruins since it was buried by a Vesuvuis eruption in AD 79.

It’s impossible to resist the aroma of fresh pizza while enjoying your holiday in Naples. The first pizza Margherita was made here for Queen Margherita, who visited the city in 1889. You’ll need to line up early at one of Italy’s most famous pizzerias, Sorbillo, on Via dei Tribunali. Or walk in any direction to find a slice at most trattorias and market stalls.

Arrive early with your snorkel to beat the crowds to Spiaggia della Gaiola. The protected marine park features the ruins of a Roman villa. Its rocky islets are also home to colorful fish. Swim with views of Palazzo Donn’Anna at the private Bagno Elena beach and sip espressos at the resort’s bar. Board a ferry at Molo Beverello to be on Capri’s glamorous beaches in about 40 minutes.

You’ll feel like you’re on the set of a romantic period drama in the Spanish Quarter’s Montecalvario, distinguished by its narrow alleys, iron balconies and local trattorias. This is where to stay in Naples for a glimpse at authentic local life. Some streets still retain a gritty charm, while others have been spruced up for tourists with boutique hotels and indie stores. Shop and dine at charming cafes along historical Via Toledo.

Good for: Traditional restaurants, souvenir shops, historic buildings

If you love trendy shops, art galleries and chic bars, Chiaia is your place. Join Neapolitans at monthly farmers markets in the Villa Comunale park, and hop between bars along Via Bisignano for an ‘aperitivo’ (pre-meal drink). In the grand Museo Pignatelli, wander around landscaped gardens and see 19th-century art.

Good for: Shopping, nightlife, art galleries

Escape the crowds in the hillside neighborhood of Vomero during your trip to Naples. This upscale area is where to stay in Naples for the top shopping and fine Italian restaurants around Piazza Vanvitelli, as well as rows of book shops on Via Giordano. It’s also a great place to savor a gelato and look out at the sea. Capture the best views from the top of Castel Sant’Elmo. Hop on the funicular for a panoramic ride back down to the city.

Good for: Fine dining, shopping, hillside views

Consider staying in Chiaia or Vomero with young kids. Both feature peaceful parks for downtime and restaurants with international menus for fussy eaters. Then choose from one of the many things to do with family in Naples, including the merry-go-rounds and bumper cars at Edenlandia amusement park. The Ospedale delle Bambole (Doll Hospital) is a charming way to spend an afternoon, with a museum and workshop where you can watch artists restore toys.

With a domed glass roof and ornate marble flooring, Galleria Umberto I is a spectacular introduction to luxury shopping in Naples. If ceramics and figurines are more your style, stroll the cobblestones of Via dei Tribunali where you’ll see the artists at work. Shoe collector? Head to Poggioreale Market, which sells bargain clothes and kitchenware too.

Get a Naples Pass for discounts and quick entry if you plan to visit lots of museums in Naples. Centro Storico’s church-lined Spaccanapoli street is a great place to start, along with guided tours of Napoli Sotterranea (underground tunnels). See Roman treasures and artifacts from Pompeii in the National Archeological Museum of Naples. Pompeii itself is just a quick ride on a Circumvesuviana regional train from Piazza Garibaldi.

Nightlife in Naples is easy to find around Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, the heart of the city. Or sip Aglianico in Chiaia’s wine bars, join the party crowds at Piazza Bellini, and see jazz concerts at Palazzo Venezia. If you’re a theater fan, nothing beats watching a performance from gilded box seats in the world’s oldest continuously active opera house, Teatro San Carlo (book in advance).

To eat like a local in Naples, try family-run restaurants like L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, which has been open for more than a century. Panoramic city views come with gourmet meals at Michelin-starred George Restaurant. For lots of tasty choices in one area, Chiaia features many acclaimed restaurants, including Terrazza Calabritto, with dishes such as linguine with seafood and pecorino cheese.

The best free thing to do in Naples is to enjoy a ‘passeggiata’ (leisurely stroll) with the locals along the Lungomare seafront promenade. Arrive at dusk for brilliant lighting with Mount Vesuvius and Capri in the background. Check the city’s calendar of events for free concerts at Piazza del Plebiscito, and enjoy refreshing swims at La Rotunda Diaz beach near the port.