Naples

Naples, or Napoli in Italian, is the third most-populated city in Italy and the biggest in southern Italy. Its close proximity to many interesting sites like Pompeii and the Bay of Naples makes it a good base for traveling throughout the rest of southern Italy.

Naples is a lively and vibrant city full of wonderful historical and artistic treasures as well as narrow, winding streets with small shops that make it worth at least a three-day visit. The name comes from the Greek Neapolis meaning 'new city'.

Naples is in the region of Campania in southern Italy, about two hours south of Rome. It sits on the coast on the northern edge of the Bay of Naples, one of the most beautiful bays in Italy. Its harbor is the most important port in southern Italy.

Naples is the main transportation hub for southern Italy with several major train lines. The train and bus stations are in the huge Piazza Garibaldi, on the eastern side of the city. Naples has an airport, Aeroporto Capodichino, with flights to other parts of Italy and Europe. A bus connects the airport with Piazza Garibaldi. Ferries and hydrofoils run from Naples' Molo Beverello to the islands of Capri, Ischia, Procida, and Sardinia.

There are tourist offices in the main train station, Piazza Gesu Nuovo and Piazza Martiri.

Pizza, one of Italy's most famous foods, originated in Naples and is taken very seriously there. You'll find lots of great pizza places especially in Via Tribunali but be sure to look for one with a wood-burning oven. Spaghetti also became popular in Naples and the chef's specialties are those with clams or mussels. Seafood dishes are abundant and very good in Naples.

Other attractions in the city include:

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples - One of the world's best collections of Greek and Roman antiquities including mosaics, sculptures, gems, glass and silver, and a collection of Roman erotica from Pompeii. Many of the objects come from excavations at Pompeii and other nearby archaeological sites

Spaccanapoli - One of the main streets crossing Naples and the heart of the historic center. Always full of people, the street holds many interesting churches, shops, and other buildings

The Duomo - A 13th century Gothic cathedral dedicated to Naples' patron saint, San Gennaro. It also includes a 4th century basilica (the oldest church in Naples), a baptistery and a Renaissance crypt

The Capodimonte Museum and Park - Built as King Charles III's hunting lodge, it houses one of Italy's richest museums with a great picture gallery and collection of majolica and porcelain. You can wander around the royal apartments and the surrounding park too

Castel dell'Ovo - The oldest castle in Naples sits in a prominent position on the harbor and is used for exhibitions and concerts

The Castel Nuovo - A huge castle erected in 1282 that houses the Civic Museum.
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