Naples travel guide

Pizza and Cafe by the Sea

Visitors to Italy often visit Rome, Venice, and Florence without even considering Naples. But this bustling city is certainly worth a trip. As Italy’s second-biggest city, after Rome, Naples is lively, dynamic, and pleasant. A salty-aired town, Naples lies right on the coast, with the ocean only a few steps away from the downtown streets. Naples is culturally engaging, complete with its own distinct Neapolitan dialect (though many residents today are inclined to speak more standard Italian). There are lovely sights to be seen here, including the National Archeological Museum, a variety of exquisite churches, and quite nearby, nestled under the imposing silhouette of Mount Vesuvius, the spectacular and poignant remains of ancient Pompeii. However, one of the most beguiling aspects of this city is culinary in nature: Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and the Neapolitans know how to make it best. The familiar crusty circles of tomato and mozzarella continue to be served today, always warm from the traditional wood-burning ovens.