Naples

The home of modern pizza

Naples pulses with raw Italian energy, where ancient history collides with contemporary street life in the most authentic way imaginable. When you wander around this gritty, passionate city, you’ll take in its history and atmosphere like no other.

Founded by ancient Greeks as Neapolis (“New City”), Naples boasts well over 2,000 years of continuous history. Once it was thought to be the most populous city in the world! Its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains one of the highest numbers of churches per square kilometre on earth.

Neapolitans live life with infectious enthusiasm. Conversations spill from balconies whilst laundry flutters overhead like colourful bunting. The city invented modern pizza in the 18th century, and locals guard their culinary traditions fiercely. Authentic Neapolitan pizza remains a pilgrimage destination for food lovers worldwide.

To discover the essence of Naples, make sure to wander and get lost in its labyrinthine old centre. The Via San Gregorio Armeno is particularly charming and is home to some cute boutiques.

Or amble along Via Toledo in the Quartieri Spagnoli neighbourhood. From here continue to Galleria Umberto I, an incredible shopping gallery under glass domes. Across the way, you might hear the opera echoes of Teatro San Carlo, La Scala’s rival.

Then hop over to the Palazzo Reale, the largest building in the world in the 17th century, which remains Italy’s largest palace. It sits on the impressive, pedestrianised Piazza del Plebiscito.

No visit to Naples is complete without a stop at Sansevero Chapel Museum where you marvel at the Veiled Christ statue.

Naples also serves as gateway to the Bay's legendary destinations. Pompeii, Herculaneum, Capri and the Amalfi Coast all lie within easy reach.