Guide to Naples

A place that has over time coined the phrase ‘See Naples and Die’, this Mediterranean city has long been revered for its vibrant, unruly attitude and vitality for life. Since ancient times it has been one of the most important intellectual and cultural centres in Italy while the historic city centre itself has been deemed so special that it is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although parts of Naples do live up to its slightly tattered reputation, when you explore further you will be amazed by the countless frescoes, sculptures and breathtaking architecture - things that have to be seen to be truly appreciated.

A trip to Pompeii and Vesuvius is a must for history lovers as are the Capodimonte Museum and Cappella di San Gennar containing the relics of San Gennaro of which the blood is said to often liquify, drawing in crowds three times a year who gather in celebration. Naples loves a party and this is just just one of the festivals that takes place throughout the year, others including everything from jazz to art to food. Underneath the city is a labyrinth of shops and art installations completed in 2015 and curated by Achille Bonito Oliva who commissioned more than 100 artists and architects to help transform the city's metro stations into a city-wide museum.

You can’t go to Naples without eating pizza, a speciality the city takes so seriously that in 2004 the Ministry of Agriculture issued official guidelines on how to make the perfect Pizza Verace Napoletana. The best of these are to be found away from the high-end restaurants, but don’t be deterred by the queues as the turnover is fast and it’s well-worth the wait. Coffee lovers will also be in their element with the city’s many charming cafe bars where you can sit and watch the hustle and bustle go by with a famously short and very strong espresso. Or even better have your private charter crew make one for you to enjoy on the top deck as the sun goes down.

For more inspiration about planning your next yachting vacation in this region of Italy, you can take a look at all luxury yachts available for Amalfi Coast crewed private yacht charters.