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7 reasons to see Naples before you die

Naples used to be considered a “must-see” destination, essential for anyone who was interested in exploring Europe.  “Vedi Napoli, e poi muori,” they said – see Naples, and then die. Until you had been immersed in the rich beauty and history of Naples, you hadnÂ’t really lived. The cityÂ’s reputation has been in decline over the past century, but more adventurous travellers, keen to explore Italy beyond the conventional combination of Rome, Florence and Venice, are discovering that Naples has a lot to offer. Everyone should see Naples at least once. But if you visit the city described by Flaubert as a “Mediterranean Paris”, youÂ’ll undoubtedly find yourself coming back for moreÂ… Spectacular views Although Naples is not renowned for its beauty to the same extent as other Italian cities, its colourful and chaotic streets have a charm of their own. And then there are the views – the breathtaking panorama of the Bay of Naples, best appreciated from the seafront or Castel SantÂ’Elmo. On a clear day you can see not only Vesuvius, but also the shimmering outlines of the islands Capri and Ischia. altb-naples-view Masterpieces Naples is an art loverÂ’s dream. Look out for Caravaggio paintings in churches, or the extraordinary marble sculpture known as the Cristo Velato (“veiled Christ”) in the Cappella Sansevero. The Capodimonte collection, located in a grand Bourbon palace on a hill, is particularly impressive, with works by Raphael, Botticelli, Bellini, Titian and Caravaggio. Naples is also one of the best cities in Italy for contemporary art. DonÂ’t miss Madre, a modern art gallery with an excellent permanent collection as well as temporary exhibitions with works by some of the most exciting contemporary artists. altb-naples-masterpiece One of the greatest museums in the world Even if there were no other cultural attractions, the Archaeological Museum would in itself justify a trip to Naples. Its outstanding collection of Roman art and artifacts includes fascinating findings from Pompeii and Herculaneum, such as statues, frescoes and mosaics. A highlight is the magnificent Farnese Bull – an enormous statue that was unearthed at the Baths of Caracalla in Rome. For anyone even remotely interested in Roman art and culture, the museum is a must. altb-naples-archaeological-museum Pizza (and so much more) Naples is the true home of pizza, and one of your main dilemmas may well be deciding where to eat it. Brandi, the place where the margherita was invented? Di Matteo, a local favourite? Da Michele, the historic pizzeria that appeared in Eat, Pray, Love? Even if you opt for a less famous pizzeria, you wonÂ’t be disappointed. Just keep it simple – a margherita and a beer – and youÂ’ll see what all the fuss is about. But thereÂ’s more to Naples than pizza. Save some room for other Neapolitan specialities, such as cones of fried fish and seafood, or the decadent, ricotta-filled pastries known as sfogliatelle. altb-naples-pizza Street life and shopping In Naples itÂ’s all about the simple pleasures – taking a walk through the buzzing streets of Spaccanapoli and Via dei Tribunali, people-watching and browsing the shops. You could spend hours walking in circles around the same streets in the city centre without getting bored, soaking in the atmosphere of this frenetic yet fascinating city. If youÂ’re interested in shopping, take a stroll down Via Toledo and explore the nearby Chiaia neighbourhood, which has an interesting blend of designer stores, independent boutiques and vintage clothes shops. Alternatively, if youÂ’re looking to pick up a unique souvenir, visit Via San Gregorio Armeno, where youÂ’ll find an abundance of workshops specializing in handmade presepi (nativity cribs). altb-naples-street-life Secrets Naples is full of surprises and secrets. ItÂ’s a city with bizarre superstitions, underground rivers, shrines to footballers, mysterious palazzi and purgatory cults… However, to discover these things, you need to know where to look. Make sure you explore Naples with a guidebook or a guide, as you wouldnÂ’t want to miss out on the cityÂ’s most intriguing secrets. altb-naples-secrets The perfect base With a wealth of art and culture, Naples could easily keep you busy for a week. But if youÂ’re interested in seeing more of Campania, Naples is also the ideal base. Stay in Naples and youÂ’re in easy reach of Vesuvius, Capri, Ischia, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast. In other words, youÂ’re surrounded by some of the most beautiful places in the country, many of which can be visited on day trips. Spend a day exploring the atmospheric ruins of Pompeii or the villas and grottoes of Capri, and you can be back in Naples in time for dinner. altb-naples-capri Rosario Gorgone is Co-Founder of Through Eternity Tours. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.

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2 Comments

  1. Thanks for this post Rosarion, I would love to visit Naples but I tire of cities so if I can use it as a basis as you suggest to visit Vesuvius, Capri, Ischia, Pompeii, Herculaneum, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast, it really is ideal!

  2. Sadly, in my eyes, Naples has never had the allure that so many other Italian cities possess and I’ve never got round to visiting. Which I accept may have been a big mistake.

    My only experience was visiting to change buses to get to Vesuvius a long time ago when I was back-packing around Europe. I can remember the sweet bus driver being very concerned that two young ladies were alone at the bus station.

    This post had whetted my appetite, there’s much more to the city and besides I’ve now got a great hunk of a husband to look after me.

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