Naples is home to all good things: pizza, ice cream, mandolin performers, and impressive historical sites set against the backdrop of Mount Vesuvius. Yet surprisingly, the city is half as popular as other Italian cities such as Rome, Milan, Venice or Florence. And it’s a shame because every street in this incredible city is steeped in art, history, and perhaps the most incredible food scene in Italy.
1. Pompeii
In 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted furiously and destroyed one of the most popular cities in ancient Rome, Pompeii. In a single volcanic eruption, the city was completely destroyed, instantly burying its 11,000 inhabitants. It was rediscovered only in 1599 and archaeologists began excavating much later, almost 150 years later.
Today, the ruins of Pompeii are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited sites in Italy, attracting more than 2.5 million visitors each year. Strolling through this heritage site is an essential experience in Italy.
2. Mount Vesuvius
It would be a shame to go to Naples and not visit the legendary Mount Vesuvius, whose haunting presence is not lost in the city. Its iconic flat top that dominates the city skyline clearly sets it apart. While the idea of climbing a live volcano is overwhelming, it is well worth it. The views from the top are spectacular to say the least. You can choose to walk alone or join a group tour.
3. Pizza
You can’t leave Naples without eating pizza. After all, this is the birthplace of pizza. The delicious aroma of freshly baked pizza lingers throughout the city. And trust me, it’s the best pizza you’ve ever eaten!
L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele is one of the best-known pizzerias in the city (it was even featured in Julia Robert’s movie, Eat Pray Love!). Located on Via Cesare Sersale, in the heart of the city, they only have two pizza options: tomato and mozzarella or tomato and anchovy, both of which are great!
4. The veiled Christ
If you could only visit the heritage site in Naples, it should be the Veiled Christ in the Chapel of San Severo in the center of the city. This fantastic stature of Christ after death was carved from a single marble by Giuseppe Sanmartino in 1753. The statue is so beautifully realistic that it makes the marble appear very fine, much like the shroud that covers Christ.
5. Capri
Capri is one of the most impressive islands in Italy. Its serene beauty has been immortalized in paintings, songs, and literature.
The island is accessible by high-speed boats that take between 50 and 60 minutes and cost around € 20. If you have time, take the slower boats to calmly enjoy the Mediterranean beauty. It takes about 80 minutes and costs between € 12 and € 15. If you are traveling in the summer, be sure to visit the island’s acclaimed Blue Grotto and take the chairlift to Mount Solaro.