With many of us bracing ourselves for plunging temperatures, short days, long nights, and months of grey and dismal weather, it’s good to have something to look forward to. For many of us, that something to look forward to will come in the form of a sunshine getaway to a beautiful coastal destination. If you’re looking for ideas of where to head to for your next summer getaway, might we be so bold as to suggest Naples, Italy? Naples is a glorious city nestled snugly on the West coast of Italy. Naples is as vast as it is stunning, and it is actually the third-largest city in all of Italy, third only to Rome and Milan. Each year, tourists and holidaymakers flock here in droves to marvel as the glorious surroundings and take in all the sights that the vast coastal city has to offer. If you’re considering Naples for your next summer getaway, here are 7 wonderful things to do.
Experience the ruins of Herculaneum and Pompeii – One of the first things you should do when you visit Naples and have got yourself settled, is arrange for a trip to see the ancient ruins of Pompeii. Pompeii was once an ancient city located in the shadow of the domineering Mount Vesuvius. In 79 AD however, the volcano erupted and the city was raised to the ground thanks to rivers of scorching hot lava. What was left however, still stands to this day, and it is in surprisingly great condition. This is thanks to the ash, which helped to naturally preserve the ruins. Now you can walk through these famous ruins and marvel at what is left of the stunning architecture on show.
Take a look around Naples Cathedral – Naples is home to some of the most spectacular architecture on the planet and Naples Cathedral is the perfect embodiment of that. If you’ve an eye for culture, a visit here is well worth it. Despite having been renovated several times over the years thanks to natural disasters such as earthquakes, the cathedral still looks like it could have stood many centuries ago. The tabernacle is especially interesting, as contained within are two vessels which contain the patron saint of Naples’ blood. The cathedral looks especially impressive as the sun starts to set, as it is illuminated brightly.
Looking for an accomodation in Naples? Take a look at those amazing apartments
Explore the catacombs of San Gennaro – Located in Northern Naples you will find the entrance to the San Gennaro catacombs. This secret world of underground passageways and tunnels is lined with crypts and graves which date back thousands of years. The ground floor is home to more than 3000 burial sites. Just be warned, this is a solemn location, and thanks to the dim visibility and dark surroundings, there is a macabre feel about the place. For a lighter mood, move up to the second floor where things get brighter, wider, and you can enjoy various pieces of artwork instead. To get the most from your experience, be sure to embark on a guided tour.
Make your way around the Castel Nuovo – Dominating the Naples skyline is the Castel Nuovo. This castle is easily accessible, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Naples. The castle was constructed way back in 1282 and features 5 circular towers as well as a beautifully maintained courtyard. There are guided tours available at the castle, allowing you to explore the towers, stand in the courtyard, and bask in the brilliance of the Baron’s Hall painted ceiling, which would give the Sistine Chapel a run for its money.
Explore the city – If you want a leisurely day in which you do things at your own pace, a walk around Naples is perfect. Simply head out and explore the shops, enjoy a cup of coffee and a bite to eat at a local café, and maybe head down to the beach to relax for a little while before heading back. Who knows what kinds of hidden gems you’ll encounter as you explore?
Explore Naples with one of our Naples tour and live the city from the inside.
Enjoy an authentic Italian pizza – Italy is renowned for its pizza, we all know that. But where in Italy can you find the best pizza? Well, according to many pizza enthusiasts and experts, the best pizza in Italy is located in Naples. If you love pizza, and hey, who doesn’t? You’ll adore the pizza available in the city. With signature crisp, yet light and slightly chewy dough, along with fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves, these wood-fired oven-baked pizzas are like nothing you’ll have ever experienced before.
Enjoy fresh seafood – If for some bizarre reason, you don’t like pizza, or if you simply feel like eating something different, the seafood here in Naples is mind-blowingly great! As the city is located on the coast, the seawaters are awash with all manner of delicious seafood ingredients which can be used to create dishes the likes of which you’ve likely never experienced before. Whether you feel like juicy langoustines with spaghetti, or a creamy clam chowder with homemade ciabatta bread, the seafood on offer in Naples is amongst the best on the planet, without a doubt!
