🔴 MY APTS IN THE OLD TOWN

 Ciao  !

Best and safe  area to stay in Naples are : Centro Storico and Chiaia 

⭐️ "Only in case" you need i own two superhost airbnbs right in the centro storico 

🛎️ We have n 2 AIRBNB SUPERHOST APARTMENTS

Located right in the old town / city center / near metro with everything at hand (best restaurants , best  sights , main transportation)

🛎️ DIRECT BOOKING HERE our official web site ( no airbnb commission) - Link  👉  https://www.spaccanapoliexperience.com/

Apt 1 or Apt 2 both with balcony city view ( you can verify the reviews via airbnb)

🛎️ Facebook post with pics and videos of both the apts 👇

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1069443424901362/permalink/1136069101572127/

⭐  You can check  the airbnb's  reviews 

1. Apt pigna view 

https://www.airbnb.it/rooms/836397423820889981?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

2.  Apt decumano view 

https://www.airbnb.it/rooms/4262320?viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76

🔴 Plus 

🚙 We can also organize private transfer to/from Naples Airport  

🚕 Tour with private driver on the Amalfi Coast    

🚩 Professional and Expert Tour Guide at Herculaneum or Pompeii 

⛴️ Exclusive "all-inclusive"  boat tours  to all the stunning islands: Capri - Ischia - Procida 

The renaissance and the new Naples that is being born 🌋

 The renaissance and the new Naples that is being born 🌶️​🤌​🏛️​🌋​

The renaissance period is often described as a time of rebirth and cultural revitalization in Europe. And one city that has truly embraced this rebirth is Naples, Italy. From its rich history and traditions to its modern developments and opportunities, Naples is experiencing a new renaissance.

The south of Italy has long been known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. But a new city is emerging that is set to redefine the region and become a hub of business, innovation, and culture. This is the birth of New Naples, a renaissance in the south that is capturing the attention of the world.

A historical perspective on Naples

Naples, known as the “City of the Sun”, has a rich and storied history that dates back to the ancient Greeks. It has played a significant role in shaping Italy’s culture, art, and economy. However, over the years, the city has faced numerous challenges, including political turmoil and natural disasters. The city’s location in the southern region of Italy has often led to neglect and underdevelopment in comparison to other major Italian cities. Despite these challenges, Naples has always held a special place in the hearts of its people and has remained a popular tourist destination.

Recently, there has been a renewed focus on revitalizing the city and creating a “New Naples”. This renaissance aims to restore the city’s former glory and make it a thriving hub for business, culture, and innovation in the south of Italy. With its rich history and potential for growth, Naples is poised to become a major player in Italy’s economic and cultural landscape.

The New Naples: a city reborn

Naples, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is experiencing a rebirth. The city has transformed itself from a gritty and dilapidated metropolis to a modern hub of culture and business. Naples has undergone significant changes over the years, with efforts towards modernization and development. However, this transformation has not been without its challenges. Urban decay, organized crime, and poor infrastructure have been some of the obstacles faced in reviving Naples. But despite these challenges, the city has shown great potential for growth and has emerged as a vibrant and dynamic destination. With a rich history and a promising future, Naples is truly experiencing a renaissance.

With its rich history and cultural heritage, Naples has always been a beloved Italian city, but it has now reached new heights of development and modernization. The city has worked tirelessly towards revitalizing its infrastructure, economy, and tourism industry, resulting in an overall rebirth that has caught the eye of the world.

1. Preserving its historical heritage while embracing modernization

2. Key areas of improvement such as infrastructure, tourism, and economy

3. Challenges faced in the process of revitalizing Naples

4. Potential and opportunities for growth in the future

The rebirth of Naples is a testament to the city’s resilience and determination to thrive in the modern world while staying true to its roots. With its efforts towards development and modernization, Naples has become a city that beautifully balances tradition and progress, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and a promising hub for economic growth. The renaissance is truly alive and thriving in the new Naples.

A Cultural Renaissance

Culture and art have always played a significant role in the city of Naples, and now they are at the heart of its renaissance. New initiatives and developments in the cultural scene are contributing to the growth and revitalization of the city. The city’s vibrant arts and music scene, along with its historical landmarks, are attracting tourists and boosting the economy. The annual Naples Art Week and the National Archaeological Museum are just some of the cultural events and institutions that are drawing attention to the city.

The historical landmarks, such as the Royal Palace and the Castel dell’Ovo, continue to draw in visitors, but the city is also fostering the growth of modern cultural institutions, such as the MADRE Contemporary Art Museum. These developments not only showcase the city’s rich history and heritage, but also bring in new opportunities for economic growth and tourism. As New Naples continues to evolve, culture and art will remain a crucial aspect of its development, creating a unique and dynamic identity for the city. The New Naples is truly becoming a hub for art, history, and culture in the south of Italy.

Challenges and solutions

Despite the promising growth and development of New Naples, it is not without its challenges. One of the major challenges is the aging infrastructure of the city, which has been a longstanding issue. However, the government and private sector are collaborating to invest in new infrastructure projects to modernize the city and improve its livability.

Another challenge is environmental concerns, as Naples has faced issues with waste management and pollution in the past. To address this, there are initiatives in place to promote sustainable practices and protect the surrounding natural areas. This includes investments in renewable energy and efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

Additionally, there is a need for social and economic development in some areas of the city, particularly in the outskirts. To tackle this, there are various social and economic programs in place to improve living conditions and create job opportunities for residents.

The solutions being implemented to address these challenges are crucial for the future of New Naples. With a focus on sustainable development and inclusivity, the city is on track to overcome these obstacles and continue its renaissance as a modern, thriving hub in the south of Italy.

The revitalization of Naples’ economy

Naples’ economy has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, thanks to the city’s renaissance revival. The renaissance brought about a surge in economic growth, with the emergence of new industries and businesses. The city has also invested in infrastructure development and modernization, attracting investors and boosting its economy.

Naples’ strategic location and its unique blend of traditional and modern elements make it a potential economic hub in Italy. The city is seeing growth in sectors such as tech, finance, and renewable energy, with companies and startups flocking to New Naples to take advantage of its resources and potential. This growth is expected to continue, providing a boost to the local economy and contributing to the overall development of the city.

Efforts to improve the city’s image and manage its sustainable tourism have also contributed to the revitalization of Naples’ economy.

In addition to job opportunities, the development of New Naples also presents opportunities for investments in the region. With its growing business sector and strategic location, the city is attracting both domestic and international investors, further driving its economic growth.

Moving forward, Naples has the potential to become a major player in Italy’s economy, thanks to its renaissance rebirth. With continued investments and strategic initiatives, the city can continue to thrive and attract more visitors and investors. The renaissance has truly brought a new life to Naples, both culturally and economically.

The business and technological advancements in the New Naples

The business sector in New Naples is experiencing rapid growth and expansion, making it a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in the south of Italy. The city’s strategic location and its access to international markets through the newly built high-speed railway have attracted major investments from various industries.

The tech industry, in particular, is booming in New Naples, with numerous startups and established companies choosing to set up their operations in the city. The finance and renewable energy sectors are also seeing significant growth and development, contributing to the city’s economic success and creating job opportunities for its residents.

The integration of technology in the development of New Naples has also played a crucial role in its transformation. From smart city initiatives to digital innovation hubs, the city is embracing technology to improve its infrastructure and services, making it an attractive destination for businesses and investors.

The New Naples as a sustainable and liveable city

Naples has long been known for its chaotic streets and pollution, but the New Naples is aiming to change that perception. The city is undergoing a transformation to become more sustainable and liveable for its residents.

Key initiatives such as green spaces, pedestrian-friendly areas, and renewable energy projects are being implemented to improve the quality of life for the residents of New Naples. These efforts not only benefit the environment but also contribute to making the city a more attractive place to live and work.

The government and private sector are working together to make Naples a model for sustainable development in Italy. With an emphasis on preserving its rich history and culture, the New Naples is finding ways to incorporate modern technologies and practices while maintaining its unique identity.

As the city continues to evolve, it is poised to become a prime destination for those seeking a sustainable and liveable city experience. With its focus on balance and progress, the New Naples is setting an example for other cities in Italy and beyond.

The Rebirth of Naples’ cuisine

Indulging in the renaissance spirit, Naples has also seen a revival of its traditional cuisine. With influences from the renaissance era, the city’s culinary scene has evolved to embrace a new style of cooking while still honoring its roots. The use of local and seasonal ingredients, such as seafood and fresh produce, takes inspiration from the renaissance’s focus on using the best of what nature has to offer. Dishes like polenta and porchetta, popular during the renaissance, are now being recreated in modern restaurants with a touch of innovation. Popular food tours also allow travelers to explore the city’s renaissance-inspired cuisine, giving them a taste of Naples’ rich history and culture through its food. This culinary renaissance not only adds to the city’s charm but also contributes to its growing economy and thriving tourism industry.

Naples: a city of the past and the future

With its rich history and vibrant renaissance revival, Naples is a city that beautifully balances the past and the future. The city’s efforts to preserve its historical sites and traditions while embracing modernization have created a unique and charming atmosphere. From ancient ruins to modern skyscrapers, Naples showcases a perfect blend of old and new.

As you walk through the streets, you’ll see the renaissance influence in the city’s architecture, art, and culture. However, this renaissance aesthetic is not limited to the past. Naples continues to evolve and embrace the renaissance style in its design and style today. It is a city that respects its roots while embracing progress and innovation.

Naples’ commitment to preserving its history while striving towards a brighter future is a testament to the city’s resilience and determination. It is a city that continues to inspire and amaze visitors, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the renaissance and its enduring legacy.

Surprising Pompeii Facts You Need To Know - Especially Before You Go 🔥

  🚩  To Be Updated Join our Facbook group  - Link Below 👇

 👉   Visit Naples and Amalfi Coast Travel Tips

Surprising Pompeii Facts You Need To Know - Especially Before You Go 

A city forever frozen in time, Pompeii’s history is a melancholy paradox. The very event that gruesomely took Pompeii — Mt. Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 AD — preserved the daily comings and goings of the ancient city, allowing us to piece together its story. Excavations through history have given us touching images of an unavoidable tragedy, and reactions of the Roman people right up to their last moments; lovers in an embrace, hurried escapes, bread still in the oven.

While devastating, it is pretty remarkable how we can still very much feel the bustling city of Pompeii. Stand in the middle of this Roman wonder, and you’ll be transported back 2,000 years. You might see the stepping stones used by Pompeians to avoid dirty debris and rain on the streets. On this same street, you might notice marks made by the wheels of chariots, owned by a wealthy resident. Walk through Pompeii, and you’ll notice a city not unlike yours — bakeries, markets, courtyards, graffiti, and murals.

For a city that lived so long ago, teeming with people that feel so distant from us, you might be surprised at how much we have in common with them.  

1. Pompeii was a lavish city home to wealthy residents and luxurious buildings, villas, decor + artwork

An excavation at Regio V uncovered Vicolo dei Balconi, an area of Pompeii that boasted impressive houses (some with balconies included). Archeologists also found coins, thoroughbred horses with bronze and iron accessories, and well-preserved frescoes and murals of mythological characters. Many of these artworks, like the renowned Sapphos painting, are located in the Archeological Museum of Naples.

Of course, a city full of lavishness can’t be without its vices. Brothels and gambling artifacts were also procured at excavation sites.

2. August 24th may not be Pompeii's actual eruption date

Before recent findings, August 24th 79 AD was thought to be the exact date Pompeii’s eruption occurred. Not so! The widely held belief has been disproved by curious finds that allude to a more autumnal setting. Market stalls that held common fall foods like chestnuts, unripe pomegranates, and harvested wine, as well as other findings like warmer clothing on the Roman people, heaters, and inscriptions all date the event closer to October or November.

3.The soil in Pompeii was black

The eruption at Mt. Vesuvius that decimated Pompeii on that fateful day certainly wasn’t its first, nor would it be its last (more on that later). Farmers that tilled the fertile earth may have sensed the foreshadowing of the city’s imminent demise as the black soil was indicative of earlier eruptions from the volcano.

4. Pompeii was a cosmopolitan city where the Greek language was potentially used alongside Latin

A skeletal analysis at a burial site in Pompeii found a 60ish-year-old man who was thought to have spoken Greek in theatre performances. This could be evidence of a more cosmopolitan landscape in the ancient city with different ethnicities congregating together.

5. The people of Pompeii had fantastic teeth

True to the politicians that some of them were, the people of Pompeii had stunning smiles. Their secret? A fiber-rich, low-sugar diet that prevented cavities and kept those gums healthy. Also found at the Vicolo dei Balconi were amphorae, vessels made out of terra-cotta that were used to contain wine, oil, and garum (fermented fish intestines). Save yourself a trip to the dentist and learn from the Pompeians.

6. These Romans in Pompeii loved to go out to eat

Known for their affinity for wine, cheese, and olive oil, Romans and their fine dining may not be as surprising of a fact, but it is uncanny to feel a certain kinship with their eating habits.

According to some expert on Pompeii’s history, it was common for people to eat out for their midday meal at what were called thermopolia, or snack bars. A thermopolium is a counter that opened out onto the street with big jars containing food and drinks.

7. The gruesome realities of a volcanic eruption

By now, you know about the city covered in the volcanic ashes of a deadly eruption at Pompeii, preserving (almost too well) the narrative of a city. But what are the details of that narrative? We’ll outline one gruesome story below.

One set of skeletal remains of a man indicate that he was beheaded while escaping the molten heat. Originally, researchers believed that this man was hit by a flying rock. Upon further inspection, they deduced from a limp in his leg that he actually may have stayed home, dying instead by lethal gases. The flying rock could have been a doorjamb propelled by a strong volcanic cloud.

8. The nearby Herculaneum was also impacted by Mt. Vesuvius

Herculaneum was also a vibrant city at the foot of Mt. Vesuvius. With rich villas and luxurious baths, the city of about 5,000 inhabitants was a summertime destination by Romans. It was actually discovered before Pompeii in 1709 (Pompeii was discovered in 1748). 

9. What we know of Pompeii came from letters by Pliny the Younger

Before recent excavations, what we knew of Pompeii came from letters from Pliny the Younger, a 17-year-old boy who lived along the Bay of Naples at the time of the eruption. The letters were addressed to a historian named Tacitus and they detailed the horrific events that occurred. Pliny the Younger wrote about Romans defending themselves by covering their heads, the awful toxic cloud, wails and prayers, and other events that occurred.

10. His uncle, the famous Pliny the Elder, was a commanding officer and helped in escape efforts

A commander of the Roman fleet, the heroic officer used his boats to see what was going on at Mt. Vesuvius and to mitigate the ensuing panic, but he unfortunately died from toxic gases.

11. Between 79 AD and 1944, Mt. Vesuvius experienced 27 serious eruptions

Far from dormant, the deadly volcano poses a threat to nearby civilization to this day. The last eruption was in 1944. Even though it was a particularly stressful time for chaos (being four years into World War II), residents of the nearby San Sebastiano village and Allied soldiers acted quickly to evacuate. While there were no military deaths, 26 Italian civilians were killed and almost 12,000 people were displaced.

12. The last major Mt. Vesuvius eruption was in 1631

The last major eruption of Mt. Vesuvius wasn’t nearly as fatal as the one during Pompeii’s time, however, it took nearly 3,000 to 6,0000 lives and triggered multiple earthquakes as well as a tsunami.

My last TIPS

I suggest you being at Capodichino airport at least 3 hours before your plane's departure.

-🛎️ Are you Looking to book superhost apts in Naples (OLD TOWN - METRO - CITY CENTER - BALCONY CITY VIEW ) ? well this is the right moment , follow the link below 👇

https://www.spaccanapoliexperience.com/

🚙 We can also organize private transfer to/from Naples Airport  

🚕 Tour with private driver on the Amalfi Coast    

🚩 Professional and Expert Tour Guide at Herculaneum or Pompeii 

⛴️ Exclusive "all-inclusive"  boat tours  to all the stunning islands: Capri - Ischia - Procida 

📫 Contact me via DM ( messanger)

11. Between 79 AD and 1944, Mt. Vesuvius experienced 27 serious eruptions

Far from dormant, the deadly volcano poses a threat to nearby civilization to this day. The last eruption was in 1944. Even though it was a particularly stressful time for chaos (being four years into World War II), residents of the nearby San Sebastiano village and Allied soldiers acted quickly to evacuate. While there were no military deaths, 26 Italian civilians were killed and almost 12,000 people were displaced.

12. The last major Mt. Vesuvius eruption was in 1631

The last major eruption of Mt. Vesuvius wasn’t nearly as fatal as the one during Pompeii’s time, however, it took nearly 3,000 to 6,0000 lives and triggered multiple earthquakes as well as a tsunami.

Traveling soon?

Extra Info

🚙 We can also organize private transfer to/from Naples Airport  

🚕 Tour with private driver on the Amalfi Coast    

🚩 Professional and Expert Tour Guide at Herculaneum or Pompeii 

⛴️ Exclusive "all-inclusive"  boat tours  to all the stunning islands: Capri - Ischia - Procida 

📫 Contact me via DM ( messanger)

My last TIPS

I suggest you being at Capodichino airport at least 3 hours before your plane's departure.

-🛎️ Are you Looking to book superhost apts in Naples (OLD TOWN - METRO - CITY CENTER - BALCONY CITY VIEW ) ? well this is the right moment , follow the link below 👇

https://www.spaccanapoliexperience.com/

Top 15 Irresistible Neapolitan Desserts and Pastries 2025 ⭐

 🚩  To Be Updated Join our Facbook group  - Link Below 👇

 👉   Visit Naples and Amalfi Coast Travel Tips

15 Irresistible Neapolitan Desserts and Pastries

Naples is world-famous for its pizza but most people outside of Italy aren’t aware of the greatness of Neapolitan desserts. Sometimes sophisticated, often rustic and always satisfying, the sweet treats in Naples are some of the tastiest in Italy as well as the entire world.

And the best part? Neapolitan pastries are super easy to find in neighborhoods throughout the chaotic city. In fact, it’s rare to find a street in Naples without a pasticceria – some even have two or three bakeries on the same block. They’re also easy to find at coffee shops, gelateria and restaurants throughout the city.

My Favorite Neapolitan Desserts and Pastries

1. Sfogliatella

If Naples were to have a signature pastry, that pastry would be the sfogliatella. This flaky pastry is available all over Italy but the best ones are found in its home city of Napoli. And, while it’s debatable that the sfogliatella is the best Neapolitan pastry, there’s no debate that it’s the most popular.

But what is it?

For the uninitiated, a sfogliatella is an addictively tasty pastry that comes in two main styles – riccia and frolla. The sfogliatella riccia is a flaky, layered pastry while the sfogliatella frolla has a shortcrust pastry shell. Both versions are stuffed with cream filling made with sweet ricotta and candied orange.

My tip : Pair your sfogliatella with coffee to create the ideal Naples breakfast.

Best Sfogliatella in town 

Location :  Scaturchio  - Attanasio

2. Fiocco Di Neve

Snowflakes are an anomaly in Naples EXCEPT when they’re filled with sweet cream. This is a city that celebrates dough balls instead of snow balls and the best ball is called fiocco di neve. And, in case you don’t speak Italian, fiocco di neve translates to snowflake in English.

Invented and perfected by Ciro Scognamillo at Pasticceria Popella in the Rione Sanità neighborhood, the fiocco di neve appears to be nothing more than a cream-filled brioche bun dusted with powdered sugar. In fact, you may wonder why people queue to eat this seemingly simple pastry that’s quickly challenging the sfogliatella as the pastry to eat in Naples.

You’ll understand the fiocco di neve’s popularity after your first bite. Sweet ricotta cream will likely explode out of the bun and into your mouth. And, if you’re like me, you’ll return again and again to enjoy the explosive experience.

My Tip 

Order an original vanilla fiocco di neve when you visit Pasticceria Popella for the first time. You can try varieties like chocolate and pistachio during future visits. If you’re lucky, you can also try a caramel fiocco di neve but that flavor isn’t typically on the menu.

Best Fiocco di Neve  in town 

Location : Poppella

3. Babà al Rum

Francophiles will be happy to find the Italian version of France’s babà al rum in Naples. Just like its French cousin, the Neapolitan babà is soaked in rum and is shaped like a mushroom.

You can try a babà at one of the thousands of pasticcerias in the city or as a dessert after dinner at a Naples trattoria or osteria. You can pair it with a shot of the local lemon liqueur "limoncello"  for an extra kick or with a proper coffee Sambuca or Strega ( caffe corretto con sambuca /strega) .

Best Babà in Town 

Location : Capparelli

4. Zeppola di San Giuseppe

Fried or baked dough   called zeppole are popular in Naples but the one to look for is called zeppola di San Giuseppe. The colorful choux pastry filled with custard and topped with more custard and amarena cherries is easy to find once it’s on your radar.

Traditionally eaten during the Feast of St. Joseph in March, the zeppole di San Giuseppe are  available at Napoli pasticcerias all year long. The only challenge is deciding whether to eat this Neapolitan pastry with your hands or with a fork. 

Best Zeppola in Town 

Location : Scaturchio   Pasticceria Angelo Carbone  - Di Costanzo -  La Sfogliatella di Mary  - Pasticceria Angelo Carbone - Luciano Mazzone

5. Ministerial

Despite its formal name, the ministerial is a fun chocolate dessert that’s shaped like a medallion and filled with liqueur-laden cream. Francesco Scaturchio invented this Neapolitan chocolate dessert more than a century ago and its recipe remains a secret to this day.

It was invented by Scaturchio around 1900 when he was trying to impress a woman with ties to the royal court. His mistress was so taken with the chocolate shell filled with a creamy liquor center that Scaturchio was encouraged to have the chocolate officially approved for Royal tables.

This required a lengthy bureaucratic battle with several different ministries — hence the name.

Long story short, the bureaucratic chocolate is fantastic. Eat it.

Best Ministeriale in Town 

location : Scaturchio  

6. Graffa

The Neapolitans love to fry food at stands which sell a variety of savory fried specialties from arancini to croquettes to fried pizza. There are plenty of fried sweets too including the donut-like, teardrop shaped graffa. However, you may be surprised that the humble graffa has Austrian roots.

The granulated sugar coated graffa is a traditional Carnival treat that’s available throughout the year. Inspired by Austria’s krapfen, this fluffy Neapolitan donut is fun to eat for kids of all ages. I recommend eating a graffa when it’s hot off the grill. Whether you add a topping like Nutella is up to you.

Best Graffa in Town 

Location : Chalet Ciro ( via Toledo)   -   Chalet Ciro (Via Caracciolo)

7. Pastiera

According to local lore, the pastiera was originally created by the Greek siren Parthenope. Traditionally eaten during Easter dinner, the rich cake can now be enjoyed all year long at Naples restaurants and bakeries.

The pastiera looks like a pie thanks to its shortcrust base and latticed topper; however, it tastes like a Neapolitan cheesecake with benefits. Since those ‘benefits’ include ricotta cheese, candied orange and orange blossom water, the pastiera is a treasure of the Neapolitan tradition 

Best Pastiera in town 

La Sfogliatella di Mary -  Scaturchio  -  Pasticceria Angelo Carbone - Luciano Mazzone

8. Struffoli

Popular during the Christmas season when it’s shaped like a wreath, struffoli is proof that Neapolitans bake a special dessert for every important holiday. And, while its roots may derive from Greece’s loukoumades, it’s a fun treat that screams Naples with its deep-fried crunchy dough balls, multi-colored sprinkles and sticky-sweet honey coating.

However, there’s a catch. Unlike other holiday pastries like the zeppole di San Giuseppe, graffa and apstiera, struffoli isn’t easy to find throughout the year. In other words, grab one when and if you see this colorful pastry on display.

Best Struffoli in Town ( easy to find during christmas time )

Location :  Di Costanzo -  La Sfogliatella di Mary  -  Scaturchio  -  Pasticceria Angelo Carbone -

Luciano Mazzone

9. Biscotto all’Amarena

The biscotto all’amarena not only is the portable cookie a staple in most of the city’s bakeries, but its tasty filling features two of my  favorite dessert ingredients – chocolate and amarena cherries. In retrospect, it’s probably because the nondescript pastry doesn’t provide a visual wow factor compared to other Neapolitan treats.

Best Biscotto all'amaerna in Town 

Location : Casa Infante  - La Sfogliatella di Mary  -  Scaturchio  -  Pasticceria Angelo Carbone - 

Luciano Mazzone

10. Torta Caprese

Invented a century ago on the Isle of Capri, the torta caprese cake qualifies as a Neapolitan pastry since Capri is a Campanian city located in the Napoli province. The flourless chocolate cake is notable for its crunchy exterior and almond flavor as well as for its notorious backstory.

Interesting  backstory which involves mobsters and a baker who forgot to add flour to his chocolate cake recipe. That story had two happy endings – the mobsters liked the cake AND the baker, Carmine Di Fiore, created a uniquely spicy cake that’s become a local favorite.

My Tip

Don’t hesitate to order a slice of torta caprese if you don’t eat gluten. Unlike most Neapolitan desserts, this one is gluten-free.

Best Torta Caprese in Town 

Location :  Di Costanzo -  La Sfogliatella di Mary  -  Scaturchio  -  Pasticceria Angelo Carbone - 

Luciano Mazzone

11. Delizia al Limone

The delizia al limone is another Neapolitan dessert that was invented in the Naples province but not the city itself. Located just 30 miles from Napoli, Sorrento gets credit for this über-lemon dessert with a name that literally translates to lemon delight.

The dome-shaped pastry made with lemon sponge cake, lemon cream, lemon liqueur (i.e. limoncello) and lemon glaze provided an ideal finish to a meal filled with savory pizzas or pasta . Percfect even for breakfast , proving that it’s always a good time to eat a delizia al limone.

Best Delizia a Limone in Town 

Location :  Di Costanzo -  La Sfogliatella di Mary  -  Scaturchio  -  Pasticceria Angelo Carbone

12. Polacca

The polaca has roots in Italy’s Aversa, a tiny Campania town located just 12 miles from Naples. You can get confused by the pastry’s name (which translates to Polish)  because  the polaca’s inventor was a Polish nun who lived in Aversa’s Cappuccinelle Convent a century ago. The  polaca’s ingredients include brioche, custard and amarena cherries.

Pastry pilgrims can experience the original polaca recipe in Aversa – a noble mission to be sure. You can experience a more modern polacca at Pasticceria Di Costanzo in Naples’ Rione Sanità neighborhood. More of a pastry than a cake, it is delicious.

Best Polacca in Town 

Location : Di Costanzo

13. Scazzetta del Cardinale 

You can experience the  amazing pastries in Salerno at two pasticcerias – Antica Doleria Pantaleone and Pasticceria Romolo. While the latter has won numerous awards both in Campania and Italy, the former is famous for inventing the scarzetta pastry in 1920.

Apparently inspired by red headdresses that cardinals sported at the nearby Salerno Cathedral, Mario Pantaleone had the ingenious idea of combining sponge cake with Chantilly cream, wild strawberries and slightly crisp strawberry icing. However, the addition of herbaceous Strega liqueur ensured that the pastry would be as popular today as when it was invented.

Best scazzetta In Salerno town 

Both Locations are in  Salerno  : Dolceria Pantaleone and Pasticceria Romolo

14. Crostata di Frutta

Essentially shortbread pastry crust that’s filled with sweet custard and fresh fruit, a seasonal crostata di frutta might feature berries, figs , kiwis or the popular  miniature crostata di frutta with wild strawberries.

While fruit tarts aren’t unique to Campania or Italy, the crostata di frutta may have Bourbon roots. The Bourbon dynasty ended in 1861.

Best Crostata in Town 

Locations :  Di Costanzo -  La Sfogliatella di Mary  -  Scaturchio  -  Pasticceria Angelo Carbone -

Luciano Mazzone

15. Gelato

Gelato wasn’t invented in Naples but the frozen dessert is as prevalent in the southern Italian city as it is in the rest of the country. Relatively low in fat and high in flavor, a gelato cone is especially refreshing on hot summer days.

The city has both chain gelaterias and individual shops all over the city. Try several cones to find your favorite flavor.

BEST GELATO IN NAPLES 

Mennella il Gelato 1 - Mennella il Gelato 2 - Mennella il Gelato 3 - Casa Infante 1 - Casa Infante 2 -

Soave - Chalet Ciro Mergellina - Gelatosità - Fantasia Gelati 

MY FAVORITE PASTRIES SHOPS IN NAPLES  

La Sfogliatella di Mary  -  Scaturchio -  Pasticceria Angelo Carbone  - Poppella  - Luciano Mazzone

Pintauro - Mastracchio - Capparelli - Chalet Ciro (Via Caracciolo) -  Casa Infante 

MY FAVORITE PATRIES SHOPS ON AMALFI COAST 

Sal de Riso  ( Minori) -  Pasticceria Pansa (Amalfi)  -  Gambardella  (Minori)  - Dolceria Pantaleone (Salerno) -  Pasticceria Romolo  (Salerno) 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What do Neapolitan people eat for dessert?

People in Naples eat a range of sweet treats that include cakes, pastries and gelato. The most Iconic  are :  Sfogliatella riccia , Sfogliatella Frolla , Rum Babà

2. What pastry is Naples known for?

The sfogliatella is the most famous Italian pastry with Neapolitan roots. Filled with sweet ricotta cream that’s flavored with candied orange bits, the flaky sfogliatella is easy to find at bakeries in and around Naples.

3. What’s the most popular Christmas dessert in Naples?

The struffoli is the most popular Neapolitan Christmas dessert. The unique pastry is a mishmash of deep-fried dough balls, sweet honey and colorful sprinkles.

4. What’s the most popular Easter dessert in Naples?

The pastiera is the most popular Neapolitan Easter dessert. Similar to cheesecake, the pastiera is baked with ricotta cheese, candied orange and orange blossom water. 

Extra Info

🚙 We can also organize private transfer to/from Naples Airport  

🚕 Tour with private driver on the Amalfi Coast    

🚩 Professional and Expert Tour Guide at Herculaneum or Pompeii 

⛴️ Exclusive "all-inclusive"  boat tours  to all the stunning islands: Capri - Ischia - Procida 

📫 Contact me via DM ( messanger)

My last TIPS

I suggest you being at Capodichino airport at least 3 hours before your plane's departure.

-🛎️ Are you Looking to book superhost apts in Naples (OLD TOWN - METRO - CITY CENTER - BALCONY CITY VIEW ) ? well this is the right moment , follow the link below 👇

https://www.spaccanapoliexperience.com/

can private transfer to/from Airport Tour with private driver on the Amalfi Professional and Expert Tour Guide m or Pompeii

🏺 5 Unusual Facts you might not know about Pompeii ( Volcano + daily diet + sex and brothels + graffiti + greek roots ) 🏺​🔥

 5 Unusual Facts you might not know about Pompeii

World famous, Pompeii has held people’s fascination for centuries. Despite its fame, however, the ancient city is still shrouded in mystery, let me  enlighten you with these 5 unusual facts…

Pompeii is the biggest archaeological site in the entire world, famous for its catastrophic ending by the volcano Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Despite its fame, the city still has some fascinating secrets hidden within. Here is my list of the most unusual facts about the ancient city of Pompeii......

☀️ They had no word for ‘Volcano’

The story of Pompeii’s demise becomes even more tragic after historians discovered the Pompeii citizens had no knowledge of what the nearby Vesuvius actually was. Having no knowledge of any volcanos, the city merely thought it was a large mountain. The actual word ‘volcano’ wasn’t invented until the 1610s, with the word derived from “Vulcan,” the Roman God of Fire. Given the same attributes of the Greek Hephaestus, the god of fire and blacksmiths, Vulcan’s worship was very ancient. Not only a god of fire but also one of masculine fertility who could make the harvest productive as well as manufacture metal and art. The Romans also relied on fire to bake basic goods such as bread, and so Vulcan also became the patron of ovens and baked produce. Fearing the destructive powers of fire the Romans dedicated a whole day to Vulcan called the Volcanalia, a festival held annually on the 23rd of August where people would throw small fish into the fire as sacrifices. It is ironic that the Pompeiians worshipped a god, who in their eyes, destroyed them. Of course, nowadays we have no such belief in Vulcan, with volcanic eruptions being a part of nature. But it is sad to think that the people of Pompeii had no comfort in that thought, more likely believing they had upset the gods and were now being punished. 

☀️Citizens had great teeth

When Pompeii was rediscovered and excavated in the 1800s, the skeletal remains of the citizens were revealed. These remains held vital information of these ancient beings, showing their cause of deaths, their customs, as well as their physical attributes. The people exploring the remains are not just archaeologists but a multidisciplinary team of computer engineers, radiologists, doctors, historians and orthodontists. Using their different areas of expertise such teams have been able to uncover unbelievable detail concerning the victims of Pompeii. One such detail was the discovery of their teeth, which were unexpectedly healthy for their time. By using tomography, a process of creating a 2D image of a 3D object by using a 16-layer CAT technology machine, scientists have been able to analyse the skeletal remains in detail. They noted, that apart from a few cavities probably due to a lack of dental care and know-how, the ancient Pompeiians had a really good set of teeth. Scientists have put this done to their diet, which was high in fruits and vegetables and low in sugars, something that we could learn from today. Another reason for their uncommonly healthy teeth and diet is the high levels of fluorine that was present in the air and in the water influenced by Mount Vesuvius. 

☀️ Brothels were everywhere

Throughout the excavation, archaeologists have discovered 25 brothels scattered all over the city. There are numerous preserved erotic frescoes within the brothels which display the services in an illustrative menu. The largest and most preserved brothel found is the Lupanare. The name comes from ‘Lupa’ (she-wolf), which was slang meaning prostitute. Saying this, it’s important to mention that this is not a universal view. There has been much debate around whether the Roman’s were as obsessed with sex as we so readily believe. With the amount of phallus sculptures, drawings and inscriptions scattered around the city it is not foolish to think that the Romans weren’t shy about having a good time. But, another theory that’s been put forward is that the many drawings and frescos were more of a joke, and that the Romans were not any more interested in sex than we are today, with the phalluses representing male power more than anything else, which can definitely be supported by the unequal society of ancient Rome. 

☀️ Graffiti was very common

Graffiti might be thought of as a modern-day phenomenon, but historians have found hundreds of historic graffiti scattered within this ancient city. With tangible testimonies of the citizens everyday life, spanning from poetry to crude messages. These many different graffiti works depict how humans are actually quite similar throughout time, with messages and insults that could easily fit into our modern-day graffiti. Not only this, but graffiti offers essential insights into the people, time and culture of ancient Pompeii. More recently in 2018, ongoing excavations revealed a new line of graffiti that threw into question the historical date of Vesuvius’s eruption. There has, for some time, been a debate between scholars over whether the eruption occurred during late summer or early autumn time. The graffiti found may have put an end to this August vs. October debate, as it reads: ‘XVI K Nov in ultsit pro masumis esurit’ which translates to ‘On October 17, he over-indulged in food’. Written in charcoal, the nature of the writing suggests it was done just before the eruption of Vesuvius, as charcoal written a long time beforehand would not have lasted as long prior to the destruction of the city. 

☀️It was originally Greek

Pompeii is famous for its Roman city past, but it was actually, in fact, a Greek city before it became Roman. This can be seen by some of the oldest structures unearthed, which appear to be designed by ancient Greek settlers who made the town part of the Hellenistic sphere in the 8th century BC. An independent Greek town, it fell under the influence of Rome in the 2nd century BC, with the Bay of Naples becoming an attraction for wealthy vacationers from Rome who relished the Campania coastline. From there Pompeii came to be populated by Rome’s most distinguished citizens, flourishing into a thriving town of elegant houses, elaborate villas, factories, shops, brothels, the lot. People gathered in the 20,000 seat amphitheatre and lounged in the open-air squares and marketplaces. With such fertile land, mountains and beautiful coastline, it is no wonder Pompeii became so popular. 

🚙 We can also organize private transfer to/from Naples Airport  

🚕 Tour with private driver on the Amalfi Coast    

🚩 Professional and Expert Tour Guide at Herculaneum or Pompeii 

⛴️ Exclusive "all-inclusive"  boat tours  to all the stunning islands: Capri - Ischia - Procida 

📫 Contact me via DM ( messanger) 

🏺 Don’t Take Things that Don’t Belong to You: The Pompeii Curse 👻👽

 Don’t Take Things that Don’t Belong to You: The Pompeii Curse

I could write a whole book about how fascinating it is to explore Pompeii, the city famous for having been completely buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Today, I want to talk about something spooky: cursed objects from Pompeii.

I am not really one for kitchy souvenirs like “I ♥ Italy ” t-shirts or magnets shaped like carnival masks from Venice. Instead, I like to collect rocks. I have rocks from the beach in Sicily, rocks from Pisa, rocks from Florid ,  everywhere I have been, I have collected at least one rock to remember it by.

That is why I was a bit alarmed to read an article a couple weeks ago that said that an American  woman collected some rocks from Pompeii … and got cursed because of it. 

The “Crime”

When I visited Pompeii in 2019, I personally didn’t see any signs saying not to collect any rocks, but it is pretty much understood that you shouldn’t take artifacts from a famous (and still active) archaeological site .

The woman in question, though, chose to ignore this and take home a few mosaic tiles, pieces of an ancient vase, and a small chunk of ceramic wall that looked a whole lot like the types of rocks I usually pick up on my own travels.

The “Curse” Begins

As soon as she returned home to USA , however, the trouble started. She was diagnosed with breast cancer not once, but twice, and had to undergo a double mastectomy, all before she turned 36 years old. Then her family suffered some severe financial trouble with no end in sight, leading her to feel that they just could not “get ahead in life.” 

Instead of just chalking this up to run-of-the-mill bad luck, she claimed that her misfortune was due to her stealing those artifacts from Pompeii few years ago. The only way to reverse the curse, she reasoned, was to send the artifacts back, along with a letter explaining why she had taken them, and why she needed to get them as far away from her as possible.

How to Reverse the Curse?

She was “young and dumb” at the time, she wrote, and “I wanted to have a piece of history that couldn’t be bought.” But she “took a piece of history captured in a time with so much negative energy attached to it,” and this, she said, was the reason why she was cursed. She had brought home items associated with such a terrible moment without caring what they really meant or how their previous owners had suffered, and those items had carried the negativity of the past with them and passed it on to her.

While I have to admit that I wasn’t quite ready to believe in a Pompeii curse based just on this story, I did a bit more digging and found out that this woman isn’t the only one who has experienced bad luck after taking home a piece of Pompeii. According to the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, around a hundred others have previously sent back artifacts they took from the site, saying that they, too, had been plagued with bad luck ever since. 

Unfortunately, these items can’t be placed back where they were found since the park workers don’t know where exactly they came from. So they are put on display in the Pompeii Antiquarium, along with the letters sent by their desperate former owners. In most cases, they aren’t really worth much in the grand scheme of things since they are mostly just rocks and tiles. But now they have two different types of cultural significance: one from the time in which they were made, back when Pompeii was a flourishing Roman city, and one from modern times, when people believed so much in a curse that they would do all they could to get rid of them. 

A Happy Ending (for Pompeii)

So, in the end, the artifacts are back where they belong, and the Archaeological Park says that these kind of stories help to keep people from stealing other artifacts in the future, which is great news. It isn’t clear from the article whether or not the woman from USA  has seen an improvement in his luck since returning the artifacts, but surely she feels better for having done the right thing.

As for me, you can bet I won’t be taking anything  the next time I visit!

 

What do you think about this story? Do you think her bad luck was a curse or just coincidence? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

4 Italian Customs Americans Aren’t Used To ⚠️ - By Karen J.

 4 Italian Customs Americans Aren’t Used To

Here’s a look at four things you should know about before you travel to Italy and spend any amount of time with Italians, so that no one looks at you funny (or so you don’t flinch when someone tries to say hello to you).

1. Cheek Kisses

This one is fairly common knowledge , but it is something you should definitely be prepared for since it’s a lot different than our greetings in the U.S. If you are meeting or someone you have previously met (male or female), you almost always greet each other with an air kiss on each cheek. You do the same thing when you are saying goodbye, usually even if you just met them that day. But there are two caveats to this:

Usually, one kiss per cheek will suffice. But in some cities or regions, it may be customary to do multiple passes. 

2. Shoes in the House

Growing up in Kentucky (no jokes, now…), I hardly ever wore shoes around the house. Sometimes not even when I went out on the porch or in the backyard. I always went barefoot or wore socks, and no one said a word about it.

In Italy, though, this is oddly scandalous!

Italians always wear slippers/flip-flops/sandals/house shoes/etc. in the house. Always. It doesn’t matter if you aren’t going anywhere or no one else is going to see you. You wear shoes. If you don’t have a pair of leisure shoes, they will loan you some . And if you think socks are good enough, you’re wrong. So always pack some indoor shoes if you’re going to be staying with an Italian for an extended period of time, or prepare for a lot of fussing and frowning!

3. Drafts

In America, “getting some air” is often a recommendation for shortening or overcoming an illness. It’s like that in Italy too… except when it isn’t. For some reason that I have yet to discover, there are many Italians who believe that a “colpo d’aria” or a gust of wind will hit you and make you sick. It has apparently happened to my nIece before, and for that reason we always have to eat with the windows closed when he comes over.

In the summer it’s usually okay to feel a breeze, but if it’s a little cooler, shut those windows! Or, if you really want to keep the air at bay (or just want to leave the windows open), you could even put on a sweater. You might be hot, but at least you’ll be safe from the draft!

4. Birthday Coffee

One would think (well, an American one, at least) that if it’s your birthday, you’re the one who gets to be treated, right? In Italy, that’s not the case. If you’re in Italy and it’s your birthday, you are the one who has to buy coffee or drinks for everyone else. So you basically make your own party. (And also pay for it!)

But don’t worry, though: someone else will surely bake or buy you a cake and give you gifts. But that coffee is always on you.

Ferries from Naples to Amalfi coast and Sorrento coast , Ischia , Capri and Procida ⛴️⭐

Ferries from Naples to Amalfi coast , Sorrento  , Ischia , Capri and Procida ⭐ By Sal  

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to  Positano from Beverello Port 

⚓ NLG  ( High speed ferry NLG)

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to  Sorrento from Beverello Port  

⚓ Alilauro  ( High speed ferry Alilauro )

⚓  NLG ( High speed ferry NLG)

Ferries to Ischia - Capri - Procida  

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to Ischia  from Calata Porta di Massa port 

⚓  Alilauro   (High speed ferry Alilauro)

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to Ischia  from Molo Beverello 

⚓ SNAV  (High speed ferry Snav )

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to Capri from Calata Porta di Massa 

⚓ Caremar (Fast ferry Caremar )

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to Capri from Molo Beverello 

⚓ SNAV  (High speed ferry Snav)

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to Capri from Calata Porta di Massa

⚓  Caremar  (ferry Caremar) 

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to Capri from Molo Beverello

⚓  SNAV  (High speed ferry Snav )

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to Capri  from Molo Beverello

⚓ NLG  ( High speed ferry NLG )

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to Procida  from Calata Porta di Massa 

⚓Caremar ( ferry Caremar  )

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to Procida  from Molo Beverello 

⚓ Caremar (High speed ferry Caremar)

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to Procida  from Molo Beverello  

⚓ SNAV  (High speed ferry Snav )

Ferries to Positano 

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to Positano  from Molo Beverello  

⚓ NLG  (High speed ferry NLG )

Ferries to Amalfi 

⛴️ Ferry from Naples to Amalfi   from Molo Beverello  

⚓ NLG  (High speed ferry NLG )

⛴️  Ferryhopper  (ferries to all destinations ) 

You can compare among a wide selection of ferry operators across 500 destinations, book ferry tickets

⚓  Ferryhopper

⛴️ Travelmar  (ferries Amalfi Coast - Salerno - Cetara - Maiori - Minori  - Positano  ) 

ferryboat service on the Amalfi Coast  

⚓  Travelmar

🚙 We can also organize private transfer to/from Naples Airport  

🚕 Tour with private driver on the Amalfi Coast    

🚩 Professional and Expert Tour Guide at Herculaneum or Pompeii 

🔴 My tip 

You don't have to reserve or purchase a ferry ticket in advance ; however, i do suggest it for travel on the weekends, holidays, and during the high-season months of June , July and August (especially for an afternoon return ferry ). You can purchase tickets online in advance on their official  websites .

My last TIPS

I suggest you being at Capodichino airport at least 3 hours before your plane's departure.

🛎️ Are you Looking to book superhost apts in Naples (OLD TOWN - METRO - CITY CENTER - BALCONY CITY VIEW ) ? well this is the right moment , follow the link below 👇

SPACCANAPOLIEXPERIENCE

Explore my favorite travel resources!

 Explore my favorite travel resources!

I often get asked what car rental companies I use or where I book my hotels. So here is everything I have used from travel planning to traveling to travel blogging!

Booking Flights 

Skyscanner  

When it comes to booking flights, my go-to website is Skyscanner. It searches for flights from hundreds of airlines and even combines airlines to help you find the best prices. My favorite is the ‘Show whole month’ feature where you can see flight prices for each day for an entire month, so you know when is the best day to fly!

VIEW WEBSITE

Google Flights

My second favorite go-to website for booking flights. I love that you don’t have to be specific: the search engine can show all flights to a whole country or even a continent. Or you can enter the departing airport, and a date, and then see flight prices for every possible destination you can fly to on that day from that specific airport! I usually use it to look for transatlantic flights.

VIEW WEBSITE

FlightConnections

FlightConnections displays an interactive map that shows you how airports around the world are connected by direct flights. I use it frequently whenever I want to know all the possible places I can fly to from a specific airport and which airlines fly in each route. This is a fantastic free tool and makes travel planning so much easier!

VIEW WEBSITE

Car rentals & transportation

DiscoverCars

My go-to website for car rental comparison is DiscoverCars .

VIEW WEBSITE

The website makes super it easy to find the best deals. Just make sure to pick one with good reviews!

RentalCars

My second favorite and alternative to DiscoverCars is RentalCars

I’ve used this global car rental comparison platform many times and have only had good experience so far. Again, make sure to check customer reviews before choosing the best option!

VIEW WEBSITE

Rail Europe

Rail Europe is another lifesaver, especially for travelers exploring multiple countries in Europe by train.

It’s a leading online platform for booking train tickets across Europe. Makes it easy to book tickets for multiple countries in one transaction!

VIEW WEBSITE

Radical Storage

Not too long ago, I didn’t even know this luggage storage tool existed but it came in very handy for us when our flight arrived in Portugal early in the morning, and we had to wait a couple of hours before we could get the keys to our apartment. We quickly found a storage point nearby, left our suitcases, and went on to explore the city. This was so, so useful!

VIEW WEBSITE

Airalo eSIM

Running around searching for a local SIM card right after landing in a foreign country is a thing of the past. Nowadays, all you need to do is download the Airalo app, select your destination (you can even select an entire region like Europe!), choose a data plan, and start browsing! The Airalo app functions as a virtual SIM card on your phone. We used it during our travels in Mexico and Morocco, and it saved us time while sparing us unnecessary stress. Just make sure your device supports eSIM before purchasing!

VIEW WEBSITE

Ferries  Naples and Amalfi Coast/Capri/ischia /Procida   

Ferryhopper 

My first  favorite go-to website for booking Ferries .

VIEW WEBSITE

Travelmar 

ferryboat service on the Amalfi Coast  

VIEW WEBSITE

Alibus 

Alibus  only € 5,00 per person from naples capodichino airport to naples city center  (tap o board)

VIEW WEBSITE

Campania express Train 

The Special train for tourists that connects Naples + Sorrento + Pompeii + Herculaneum choose your seat + AC + storage space for suitcases ) to avoid the crowded Circumvesuviana train

VIEW WEBSITE

Ferries  from Naples to Capri - Ischia - Procida 

CAREMAR

SNAV

ALILAURO

MEDMAR

Ferries  From  Naples to Sorrento 

ALILAURO

NLG

Fast Trains Milan - Florence - Rome  - Naples 

TRENITALIA

ITALOTRENO

My last TIPS

I suggest you being at Capodichino airport at least 3 hours before your plane's departure.

-🛎️ Are you Looking to book superhost apts in Naples (OLD TOWN - METRO - CITY CENTER - BALCONY CITY VIEW ) ? well this is the right moment , follow the link below 👇

https://www.spaccanapoliexperience.com/

- 🛎️ In case you need we we can provide private transfer (to/from everywhere,airport included ) Tour Guide service (pompei herculaneum, etc ) Amalfi Coast tour with a driver ( Positano , Ravello , Amalfi etc) , contact me in advance and ask for availability

🏺 All free days in Pompeii and Herculaneum 🏺🔥

 All free days in Pompeii and Herculaneum 🏺🔥

Do you want to visit the Archaeological Ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum while taking advantage of free admission?

On April 25, June 2 and November 4 you can do so without having to wait for the first Sunday of the month, which establishes free admission in all museums and archaeological parks in Italy.

So these additional free openings are in addition to the usual Sundays at the museum, offering an extra opportunity to visit and learn about Italy's cultural heritage.

But pay attention to these details!!!

Free days in Pompeii

In Pompeii since April 1, a daily admission limit of 20,000 people divided into time slots came into effect as follows: Free days in Pompeii

🔴 From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. a maximum of 15,000 admissions (divided into 12,000 for Pompeii express and 3,000 for Pompeii +)

🔴 From 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. a maximum of 5,000 admissions (divided into 3,000 for Pompeii express and 2,000 for Pompeii +).

In addition to time slots and the entry limit, the named ticket also went into effect in November. Therefore, the name of each individual visitor must be affixed to each ticket. This is creating considerable inconvenience, especially endless queues that will become longer and longer as summer and busier periods approach.

In order to avoid hours and hours in line and especially closed ticket offices due to the fact that you have reached the maximum entrance limit to the Pompeii site, I recommend that you buy your tickets online.

The official site is Ticketone, but I recommend that you buy them well in advance of your visit, because online tickets end immediately and you will then be forced to buy them at the ticket office, standing in line for hours.

If you can't find them available online, I recommend that you anticipate your visit to opening time (9:00 a.m.); early in the morning the lines are shorter than later in the day.

And if you want to take advantage of free admission to learn about the life of Pompeii's inhabitants, the history of this ancient city, and many little trivia and anecdotes about Pompeii book your guided tour now with a professional ad expert tour guide  mail to : spaccanapoliexperience@gmail.com   

Subject line : pompeii reservation 

One more opportunity to enrich your cultural background and discover a city rich in history.

Free days Herculaneum

For Herculaneum, however, the matter is different; free tickets can only be made at the site's ticket office and cannot be purchased online.

You can also choose to visit Herculaneum with the assistance of knowledgeable and experienced guides, who will be able to help you grasp the difference of these two similar cities, united by the same tragedy, but also very different. mail to spaccanapoliexperience@gmail.com    

Subject line : Herculaneum  reservation 

Extra info Pompeii / Herculaeum 

🛎️ WHAT TO SEE AT HERCULANEUM EXCAVATIONS "THE ULTIMATE GUIDE 2025 " - Follow the link below  👇 

https://visitnaplesandamalficoasttraveltips.blogspot.com/2025/01/what-to-see-at-herculaneum-excavations.html

🛎️ WHAT  TO SEE IN POMPEII " THE ULTIMATE GUIDE 2025 " ALL THE PLACES YOU CAN SEE IN POMPEII WITH THE FOUR ROUTES CREATED BY THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK  - Follow the link below  👇 

https://visitnaplesandamalficoasttraveltips.blogspot.com/2025/01/what-to-see-in-pompeii-all-places-you.html

🟢 Sorrento: what to visit and how to get there 🚀

Sorrento: what to visit and how to get there

Overlooking the Bay of Naples, amid citrus scents, breathtaking cliffs and views that look like paintings, Sorrento is more than just a tourist destination-it is an experience that touches the soul. This small town in Campania is a perfect blend of history, nature, gastronomy and art. Whether you are a romantic dreamer, a lover of culture or a tireless traveler, you will find something in Sorrento that will win you over.

Sorrento is not only to be seen, it is to be experienced. It is a city that embraces you with its beauty, pampers you with its flavors and enchants you with its colors. A place where every detail tells a story, every glimpse is a postcard and every moment leaves an indelible memory.

Get ready to lose yourself... and find yourself again, among the scents of citrus groves and the deep blue of the Mediterranean. Starting with its historic center.

1. The historic center: among alleys, crafts and tradition

The historic center of Sorrento embodies the true essence of this city, including colors, smells, scents, beauty and liveliness. Walking through the historic center of Sorrento is like taking a journey back in time.

The narrow, paved alleys, full of colors and scents, the artisan stores selling products of all kinds, from wonderful hand-painted ceramics, to lemon products, to local liqueurs, that tell the authentic story of this town. To the many establishments selling tasty gastronomic products.

Whether it is art, gastronomy or simply a scenic walk, Sorrento is a treasure trove of traditions and culture that enchants and leaves a mark on the hearts of those who visit.

3. Valley of the Mills

Sorrento's Vallone dei Mulini preserves with it an extraordinary history. The Vallone originated following a very violent eruption of the Phlegraean Fields 35,000 years ago. The accumulation of debris and the subsequent erosive action of water from two streams, the Casarlano and the Sant'Antonino, determined the formation of this valley.

It was not until 1600 that a mill was built at the bottom of the valley used for grinding grain and later also a sawmill. But as a result of the construction of today's Tasso Square, the activities of the valley stopped functioning with the consequent closure of the outlet to the sea. This caused a lack of water and increased humidity in the area to peaks of 80 percent.

This element no longer allowed men to continue living and working in the area. So both the activities in the mill and the sawmill stopped working. Today, only ruins covered by vegetation remain.

4. Wandering among churches and domes

Sorrento, like all major cities, is home to numerous churches.

Among the most beautiful to see are: in addition to the Church of the Carmine in Tasso Square, the Basilica of St. Antoninus, the patron saint of the city, which preserves numerous paintings depicting the miracles performed by this saint.

Basilica of St. Antoninus

Baroque and Romanesque in style, the basilica houses the remains of St. Antoninus its patron saint. He is credited with several miracles.

One of the most important is that of having saved a child swallowed by a whale. A miracle evidenced by the presence of an urn containing the bones of a whale in a corner of the basilica's portico.

In the nave, in the space between the two arches, instead, are placed ovals, within which are frescoed scenes from the life of St. Antonine. The right side depictions of St. Antonine saving a mason who fell from the bell tower, the deliverance of a possessed woman, the escape of the Saracen fleet, the delivery of fish to his devotees, and the rescue of a boat from shipwreck.

On the ceiling, decorated with gold rosettes on a blue background, are three canvases by Giovanni Battista Lama, made in 1734. The depiction of St. Andrew Avellino, the deliverance from the devil of Prince Sicardo's daughter, and finally the portrait of St. Gaetano di Thiene.

Sorrento Cathedral

Sorrento Cathedral, dedicated to Saints Philip and James, on the other hand, is located on Corso Italia, the city's main street.

Built in Baroque and neo-Gothic style, it features a ceiling decorated with paintings by Giacomo del Pò made in the 1700s depicting the Assumption and St. Philip and James.

The interior is Baroque in style, mostly built in the 18th century, with an imposing wooden choir (in the chancel) and the large organ above the main entrance portal. Outside, on Corso Italia, is the famous bell tower with an 18th-century ceramic clock.

5. The municipal villa and the San Francesco cloister

In visiting Sorrento, one cannot fail to see the most striking, the most exciting, the one that takes one's breath away in this city, the Villa Comunale.

The villa in Sorrento is not just a villa, it is much more than that. It houses one of the most enchanting terraces overlooking the sea, from which it is possible to admire the entire Gulf of Naples, the Sorrento coast, the seaside villages of Marina Grande and Marina Piccola, and Vesuvius. An overlook that gives unique emotions both by day and by night, with its myriad of lights, colors that are reflected in the blue of the Gulf of Naples. It is a thrill not to be missed when visiting Sorrento.

And right next to this paradise is the wonderful Church of St. Francis with its cloister. A small architectural jewel characterized by a portico of crossed tuff arches alternating with round arches. One of the city's oldest monuments.

How to get to Sorrento from Naples (by train , by car , by hydrofoil ) 

Getting from Naples to Sorrento is really easy!!! You can reach it comfortably by train, by car, but also by hydrofoil.

 If you are staying near the Naples Central Station in Piazza Garibaldi. Just go to the lower level of the station, where you will find Circumvesuviana trains that take you directly to Sorrento. The Circumvesuviana is the fastest, most convenient and cheapest way to get to Sorrento.

The route is Naples-Sorrento and you must get off at the last station. Schedules are listed here NAPLES-SORRENTO -  https://seepompeii.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ORARI-NAPOLI-SORRENTO_dal-9-dicembre-2024.pdf

MY TIPS ABOUT CIRCUMVESUVIANA TRAIN 

1. better  to take the circumvesuviana train from  the Portanolana terminal , it flanks the main train station Garibaldi , it is the starting point and  you will surely find an empty seat  

2. There are 2 kind of circumvesuviana trains 

The basic ( poor service + crowded) and the Campania Express train 

the latter costs more but you can reserve a seat + ac on board + punctual 

🚂 CAMPANIA EXPRESS TRAIN - The Special  train for tourists that connects Naples and Sorrento - link below

https://visitnaplesandamalficoasttraveltips.blogspot.com/2025/02/campania-express-train-special-train.html

🚙 Otherwise you can opt for a car, in which case you have to take the A3 Naples-Salerno freeway, direction Salerno, exit at Castellammare di Stabia and continue straight following the "Sorrento" signs for the SS145.

Here on the way you can pause and take a few photos among the wonderful panoramic curves overlooking the spectacular Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. A truly spectacular view!!!

🚢 If, on the other hand, you are staying near the Port of Naples or the historic center. I recommend using either the ferry or the hydrofoil. The trip takes about 35/45 minutes depending on the company.

From the hydrofoil you will be able to enjoy an exclusive and wonderful landscape. And it is one of the most beautiful and relaxing ways to comfortably reach Sorrento.

The Naples - Sorrento line runs year-round, with trips departing from Molo Beverello, inside the port.

🚢 Hydrofoil  my tips below

Alilalauro :  https://alilauro-tickets.certusonline.com/

Nlg : https://www.nlg.it/tratte/linea-napoli-sorrento/