Naples, located in southern Italy, is a vibrant and historic city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. Situated along the picturesque Bay of Naples with the imposing Mount Vesuvius in the background, the city offers visitors a unique blend of ancient history, bustling street life, and Mediterranean charm.

Naples, Italy, is a city steeped in millennia of history and cultural influence. Founded by the Greeks around 470 BC as Neapolis, meaning “New City,” it quickly became a significant hub of trade and culture in the ancient Mediterranean world. Under Roman rule, Naples flourished as a major commercial center and intellectual hub, known for its impressive villas, theaters, and public baths.

Throughout its history, Naples has weathered numerous invasions and changes in governance, from Byzantine and Norman rule to periods under Spanish, French, and Austrian domination. Each conqueror left its mark, contributing to the city’s rich architectural and artistic heritage. The Renaissance and Baroque periods brought further prosperity and cultural achievements, with Naples becoming a center of art and music. In the 18th century, Naples experienced a golden age under the rule of the Bourbon kings of Naples, who embellished the city with palaces, churches, and public squares. The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserves much of this architectural splendor.

Today, Naples is renowned for its vibrant street life, rich culinary tradition (including the invention of pizza), and as a gateway to the scenic Amalfi Coast and the archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Its complex history and diverse cultural influences continue to shape Naples into a dynamic and captivating destination for travelers seeking to explore its ancient roots and modern charm.

---

1. The Same
   1. Amalfi Coast
2. The DINKs
   1. Pompeii
   2. Pizza
   3. Streets of Naples
3. The Family
   1. Capris
4. Summary

---

The Same

The Dinks and The Family each embarked on their own unique adventures, showcasing the diverse range of experiences this captivating city has to offer. While The Family opted to escape the city and explore the charming island of Capri, The Dinks delved into the ancient ruins of Pompeii and embarked on a mouthwatering pizza tour, highlighting the different ways to experience the essence of Naples. Both also use Naples as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast.

Amalfi Coast

When embarking on a journey to the Amalfi Coast, we prefer flying into Naples and then opting for private transportation. The highlights of the Amalfi Coast are truly breathtaking: steep cliffs adorned with colorful villages such as Positano and Amalfi itself, where narrow streets wind through charming squares and historic churches. Visitors can explore the stunning coastline by boat, discovering hidden coves and sea caves, or venture into the rugged hills for panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Along the way, sampling local specialties like fresh seafood, limoncello, and handmade ceramics adds a delightful cultural dimension to the experience. Whether soaking in the sun on a pebbled beach, marveling at centuries-old architecture, or simply enjoying the coastal vistas, the Amalfi Coast promises an unforgettable escape into Italy’s coastal paradise.

Check out our blog on things to do in the Amalfi Coast

Two Different Takes on The Amalfi Coast, Italy

The DINKs

We took a tour of Pompeii and on our way back the tour dropped us off in the city. After we took the short walk back to the port to board our cruise.

Pompeii

Renowned for its historical significance and the tragic events that unfolded in 79 AD when Mount Vesuvius erupted, burying the city and its inhabitants under layers of volcanic ash and pumice. Rediscovered in the 18th century, Pompeii offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of an ancient civilization frozen in time. We were taken back by the pure size of it even given only two thirds have been excavated.

• The ruins of Pompeii provide a remarkable archaeological site, showcasing well-preserved streets, buildings, and artifacts that offer insights into Roman life nearly 2,000 years ago. Visitors can explore ancient streets lined with shops, temples, and villas, as well as public spaces like the Forum, where political and social life once thrived.
• Highlights of a visit to Pompeii include the Temple of Apollo, the House of the Vettii with its exquisite frescoes, the Amphitheater where gladiatorial games were held, and the Villa of the Mysteries with its enigmatic wall paintings.
• One of the most poignant features of Pompeii is the preserved plaster casts of the city’s residents, frozen in the positions they were in at the moment of their deaths. These haunting casts serve as a poignant reminder of the human tragedy that befell Pompeii during the eruption of Vesuvius.

Pizza

We went on a pizza tour. After all, it is the birthplace of pizza. Neapolitan pizza is known for its simplicity and high-quality ingredients. Some of the most renowned pizzerias in Naples include L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele (Where Eat Pray Love was filmed,) Gino Sorbillo, and Pizzeria Brandi, where the Margherita pizza is said to have been invented. Other culinary highlights include fresh seafood, local pasta dishes, and decadent pastries such as sfogliatelle and babà.

Streets of Naples

Beyond its historical and culinary attractions, Naples boasts charming neighborhoods, lively street markets, and panoramic viewpoints offering stunning vistas of the bay and surrounding landscapes. From wandering through the narrow alleys of the historic center to relaxing in waterfront cafes along the Lungomare, Naples offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vitality.