Naples, Pompeii, And the Gulf Islands

Naples is raw, high-octane energy, a place of soul-stirring art and panoramas, spontaneous conversations, and unexpected, inimitable elegance. Welcome to Italy's most unlikely masterpiece.

Naples, located on the south-western shores of Italy, is the third-largest city in the country and one of the richest in history. But despite its incredible past extending to its first foundations as far back as the 9th Century BC, tourists rarely venture from nearby Rome and are often overlooked. But with so much to offer travelers, it's about time Naples got the attention it deserves.

Panoramic Vista

The Bay of Naples is hard to beat. The marina's curvature extends around the coastline until it meets the towering figure of Mount Vesuvius in the nearby National Park. The sea is beautifully clear, and it's a well-tended, cared-for place. The city's good looks have lent themselves to the lyrics of songs written about it. The Neapolitan Torna a Sorrento (Come Back to Sorrento) is among the most popular.

Museums and Churches of Naples

Naples is a museum. Many churches, museums, and historical sites within the city are ready to captivate travelers. The Duomo (cathedral) of San Gennaro, Naples' patron saint, is one of the most visually spectacular regions. The Cappella di Santa Restituta is one of the country's oldest surviving churches. And for lovers of Baroque-style architecture, a visit to the church San Giuseppe dei Ruffi is fascinating.

Pizza

Naples is the birthplace of pizza, with its origins dating back to the 16th Century. The different sauces that top the pizza each have a different story. The Margherita was created in 1889 for the then Queen of Italy, Margherita of Savoy. It was just a topping of seasoned tomatoes back then, but that has since evolved to include white mozzarella cheese and green basil to replicate the Italian flag colors.

Naples Capri Ischia Pompeii: The guide

This guide leads you to Naples, Capri, Ischia, and Procida's islands. It also covers the ruins of Pompeii and the Royal Palace of Caserta. It includes photos and descriptions of the attractions of all the localities touched. There is also info on Campania's cuisine and recipes. It has plenty of practical travel advice to reach the islands and move there. The guide is ideal for use on your smartphone. It contains active links to the websites of many reviews for the best-recommended restaurants at the location described.