Travel GuideNaples & Campania

Naples & Campania

The region of Campania stretches through the south of Italy, covering the coast fringed by the Mediterranean Sea. It borders Lazio to the north and Basilicata to the south, whilst the inland area borders Molise and Puglia. When you hear people talking about the region of Campania, places such as Sorrento, Pompeii, Amalfi and the island of Capri immediately spring to mind. Its coves, warm clear waters, temperate climate and storied ruins are just a few of the mental images that are evoked. Campania has a photogenic landscape – from the coast, you can see two rocky islands lost in the blue of the sea: in Pompeii and Herculaneum the ruins speak for themselves; and the fishermen’s houses in Positano bring the comfort of a village. Naples is the main metropolis of this region and offers up its raw energy. Some people talk about Naples as being Italy to the extreme. It is home to many masterpieces, being a city with a wealth of cultural assets. The royal palaces, the castles and the fascinating churches give Naples an unexpected elegance. Admire the works by Caravaggio; visit the world’s best collection of frescoes and mosaics in Pompeii in the Museo Archeologico Nazionale; stop and take in the daily life of the Neapolitans. Immerse yourself in the vast, rich history of the region. As far as gastronomy is concerned, Naples needs no introduction: here you will find the best pizzas in Italy, whose recipes are proof of generations of culinary knowledge. The pastas and the coffee are gaining an unparalleled reputation, and the street markets whet your appetite. Even in fashion, Naples is gaining ground: Neapolitan tailors are sought out by foreigners, thanks to their unique suits, shirts and ties, and on every corner, and along the narrow streets, you can see a workshop or boutique. Before the unification of Italy, at the end of 1800, Naples was the wealthiest city in the country. However, things changed when Rome was established as the capital. Today, most admit that Naples has its problems, crime being the biggest of them. But nothing can stop you from living the unique experience of strolling down the vibrant streets of this city – after all, it is not without good reason that they say that Italy’s heart beats in Naples.