The Italian Espresso Water Ritual: Before or After?

The Italian  Espresso Water Ritual: Before or After?

✅ In Italy, you drink water First  ,  Before espresso : A small sip of still water (naturale) cleanses your palate, so you taste the coffee's full richness , no distractions! "This is especially sacred in Naples"

After  espresso: Some Italians sip water after to rinse their mouth, but it's less common.

✅Why ?

Tradition! It's how bars have served espresso for decades—water first, poi coffee.

Taste magic: Water resets your taste buds so that first sip of espresso is perfetto.

Hydration hack: A little water pre-coffee helps counteract caffeine's dehydrating kick.

Pro Tip: If the barista slides you water with your espresso, they're subtly telling you to drink it first—it's the Neapolitan  way!

Extra: Want to impress at a café? Order:"Un caffè e un bicchiere d'acqua, per favore" ... then sip the water before the espresso , Bravo !

Water first = true Italian style.

Six Things Never to Do With Spaghetti

 Six Things Never to Do With Spaghetti 

Spaghetti is sacred in Italy, and there are unwritten rules about how to enjoy it. Break them, and you might get the look. Here’s what NOT to do:

✅Don’t Cut It!

Grab a knife and you’ll break an Italian heart. Spaghetti is meant to be twirled, not chopped into little worms. It’s not hard—just practice your forchetta (fork) skills and avoid the scissors!

✅No Ketchup Allowed!

Ketchup on spaghetti? No. Just no. Italians will stage an intervention if they see this. Stick to proper sauces—pomodoro, carbonara, or bolognese. Ketchup belongs with fries, not pasta.

✅Don’t Drown It in Sauce

Pasta should never swim. Italians believe in balance, with just enough sauce to coat each strand. If you’re pouring half a bottle on your spaghetti, you’re doing it wrong.

✅No Spoon Twirling

Americans seem to love this one, but in Italy? It’s a rookie move. Italians twirl their spaghetti against the plate—no spoon required. It’s elegant and avoids looking like you’re eating cereal.

✅Forget the Cheese on Seafood Pasta

Adding parmesan to spaghetti alle vongole (with clams) is a one-way ticket to culinary exile. Italians take seafood pasta seriously—no cheese allowed!

✅Never Break the Spaghetti Before Cooking

This one’s a biggie. Breaking spaghetti to fit it in the pot is pasta blasphemy. Use a bigger pot, and let the long strands soften naturally.

So, now you know. Spaghetti is an art form in Italy—respect it, enjoy it, and keep the ketchup far, far away!

#visitnaples #visitamalficoast #withsal 

Top 10 Iconic Italian Companies and Their Locations

 Top 10 Iconic Italian Companies and Their Locations

Italy, a country renowned for its art, fashion, and engineering brilliance, is home to some of the world’s most iconic companies. From luxury fashion to cutting-edge automobiles, these Italian brands represent excellence and innovation. Here’s a closer look at the top 10 Italian companies and their locations:

✅Ferrero - began its journey in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946. Today, it is one of the world's largest sweet-packaged food companies, with over 35 iconic brands sold in more than 170 countries like Nutella and Kinder . 

✅ Giorgio Armani  - Founded in Milan by Giorgio Armani and Giorgio Galeoti in 1975 -  The brand is known for its elegant and minimalist designs, particularly in menswear, and has expanded into a luxury group encompassing various product lines.  

✅ Fendi  - was founded in Rome in 1925 by Edoardo and Adele Fendi as a luxury fur and leather goods house, , quickly gaining international acclaim for its quality and craftsmanship. 

✅Valentino - The Valentino brand was founded in 1960 by Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti in Rome, establishing a legacy of haute couture and ready-to-wear 

✅ Illy – Based in Trieste, Illy is synonymous with premium coffee. Their rich blends and signature red logo are iconic in the coffee world.

✅ Gucci – Originating in Florence, Gucci is a global symbol of Italian fashion, blending tradition with modernity.

✅MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company) – Founded in Naples, this global shipping and cruise giant is now headquartered in Geneva but retains strong ties to Italian ports, particularly Genoa.

✅ Dolce & Gabbana – This legendary fashion house, established in Milan, draws inspiration from the vibrant culture of Sicily, where the founders have deep roots.

✅ Ferrari – Located in Maranello, Emilia-Romagna, Ferrari embodies luxury and speed, crafting some of the most sought-after sports cars on the planet.

✅ Lamborghini – Just a short drive from Ferrari, Lamborghini operates out of Sant'Agata Bolognese, Emilia-Romagna, producing extravagant supercars that redefine performance.

✅ Prada – Milan is home to Prada, one of the world's most prestigious fashion brands, known for its understated elegance and innovative designs.

✅ Ducati – Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, is where Ducati produces its world-famous motorcycles, celebrated for their performance and Italian design flair.

✅ Fiat – Headquartered in Turin, Piedmont, Fiat has been a cornerstone of Italy’s automotive industry for over a century.

✅Bulgari – Founded in Rome, this luxury jewelry brand is celebrated for its bold designs and impeccable craftsmanship.

Fascinating facts about Italy that you might not know

 Fascinating facts about Italy that you might not know:

✅The Naples-Portici railway, inaugurated on October 3, 1839, was the first railway in Italy

✅The city of Naples is home to the world's first known pizzeria, Antica Pizzeria Port'Alba, established in 1738.

✅ Italy is home to the world's oldest university, the University of Bologna, founded in 1088.

✅ The Fiat car brand, one of Italy's most famous, was established in 1899 in Turin.

✅ Italy is the world's largest producer of wine, producing over 50 million hectoliters annually.

✅The country has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country, with 58 sites.

✅The oldest known cookbook in existence, "Apicius," dates back to ancient Rome and contains recipes from Italy.

✅The world's first bank, Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena, was founded in 1472 in Siena, Italy.

✅Italy is the birthplace of opera, with the first opera performance, "Dafne," taking place in Florence in 1598.

✅The country is famous for its high-quality fashion industry, with Milan being one of the world's fashion capitals.

✅Italy has the highest number of cultural events and festivals organized annually, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.

✅The Italian language has influenced many other languages worldwide, including English, due to Italy's historical significance.

✅Venice, built on a series of islands, has over 400 bridges, making it one of the most unique cities in the world.

✅The town of Campione d'Italia, surrounded by Switzerland, is an Italian enclave known for its casinos.

✅The concept of the Renaissance, a period of great cultural and artistic achievement, originated in Italy.

✅Italy is home to the world's smallest independent state, Vatican City, located within Rome.

✅The iconic Roman Colosseum, built in AD 70-80, is the largest ancient amphitheater ever built and could hold up to 80,000 spectators.

✅The first modern banknotes were issued by the Bank of Sicily in the 13th century, predating the invention of paper money in China.

✅Italy has the highest number of archaeological sites in the world, reflecting its rich history and cultural significance.

✅Italy is known for its diverse regional cuisines, with each region boasting its own specialty dishes and ingredients.

✅The country has a unique tradition of aperitivo, where people gather for pre-dinner drinks and snacks, fostering socializing and relaxation.

Where to Stay in Naples ? The ultimate guide with Sal

   ✅ To be up-to-date with the best tips /info  about  Naples + Amalfi Coast + Sorrento + Capri + Ischia + Procida + Pompeii + Herculaneum + Vesuvius + Oplontis  - follow my group on Facebook  - a big community of more than 40k members  - link below 👇

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Where to Stay in Naples ? The ultimate guide with Sal 

Welcome to Naples! This magnificent city, perched on Italy’s breathtaking southwestern coast, is one of the country’s most vibrant, historic, and lively destinations. If you're wondering where to stay in Naples—look no further. I’m here to help guide you to the very best spots in the city.

✅ First of All : Naples is often overlooked by tourists rushing to the Amalfi Coast or Pompeii. But trust me, this is a city that deserves your full attention!

Naples offers something entirely unique—world-class pizza ( birthplace of pizza!), stunning views of Mount Vesuvius, rich history (3000 years!) , the most sunshine of any major city on the Italian mainland, and authentic Italian life that will charm you from the moment you step foot on its cobblestone streets. By the time you finish this guide, you’ll be in love with Naples, and I bet you’ll be booking your next trip right away.

✅ Why Naples?

Naples is like stepping into a real-life movie—Italy at its most authentic. There’s something so magical about walking through the bustling streets aroun centro storico , where the scent of freshly baked pizza fills the air, and locals welcome you with open arms.

The beauty of Naples is that it’s a city with character—full of history, art, and tradition. From its grand palaces and centuries-old churches (500 churches! )  to the narrow alleyways where life happens at every corner, Naples is a city that pulses with life. And let’s not forget, Naples is the gateway to the dreamy islands of Capri, Ischia,  Procida and Amalfi Coast .

But the true magic lies in Naples' soul. It’s a place where you can soak in the culture, get lost in its history, and yet never feel like a tourist. If you're searching for a slice of real Italy, away from overly polished tourist spots, this is where you'll find it. No matter if it's enjoying an espresso in a local café, chatting with shop owners, or indulging in the local cuisine, Naples will make you feel like part of the family.

✅The Best Areas to Stay in Naples

Naples is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe. Whether you're after seaside luxury, somewhere quieter, or a full-on authentic cultural immersion in the chaos of the old town, Naples has an area to suit your needs. 

Choosing where to stay in Naples can shape your experience. I’ll guide you through the best neighborhoods so you can decide which one fits your personal style. 

✅Historic Center "Centro Storico " , For Culture Lovers

If you’re the kind of person who loves history so much that you can’t get enough of it, then Naples’ Historic Center (Centro Storico) is absolutely where you need to be.

Here, every single step feels like walking through centuries of stories. Ancient churches rise above narrow cobbled streets, grand piazzas suddenly open up around you, and beautiful old palaces seem to appear out of nowhere. At the same time, Naples’ chaotic, passionate life is everywhere—scooters zipping past, vendors shouting, locals chatting at doorways.

And then there are the smells… oh, the smells! Fresh bread still warm from the oven, pastries glistening in pasticcerie windows, and rich coffee drifting out of little bars. Somewhere, Caruso’s voice floats from an open window, mixing with honking horns, bursts of laughter, and the general joyful chaos that is so very Naples.

It’s overwhelming in the best possible way. Your senses don’t just wake up—they come alive.

Staying here means you’re right in the thick of it all. This is where Naples’ true soul lives and breathes. It’s authentic , vibrant, and completely unforgettable. If you want an experience that feels 100% real and immersive—this is the Naples you’ll never forget.

If that is not enough for you, then there's more... You’ll have the city’s most iconic sights at your doorstep: the Naples Cathedral (Duomo ), the National Archaeological Museum (MANN) , and Spaccanapoli (The Iconic Line), the bustling street that slices through the heart of the city.

✅Chiaia – Luxury by the Bay

If you're dreaming of waking up to the sparkling blue waters of the Bay of Naples, then Chiaia is one of those places in Naples that just sweeps you off your feet. It’s elegant, stylish, and right by the sea—the kind of neighborhood where you can wander past designer shops and art galleries, then sit at a café with a perfect espresso and watch the world go by. It feels a little bit glamorous but still very Naples—full of life and character.

Down by the water, you’ll find the Lungomare Caracciolo, a gorgeous promenade where locals stroll in the evenings, couples stop for a gelato, and the views of Vesuvius and the bay will make your heart skip a beat. It’s the best of seaside Naples—relaxed, beautiful, and full of that Italian dolce vita feeling.

Just to the west is Mergellina, which has a totally different vibe—more local, more laid-back, and famous for its marina and seafood restaurants. If you love a plate of just‑caught fish while watching the boats bob in the harbor, this is your spot.

✅Vomero – Elegant and Exclusive

If you're looking for a peaceful escape with a view, Vomero is the perfect area. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, Vomero offers a more relaxed atmosphere, stunning panoramic views, and a refined, upscale vibe. The streets are lined with elegant villas, gardens, and some of the city’s best shops. It is one of the most sought-after residential neighborhoods in the city. 

What’s even better is that Vomero is connected to the rest of the city by funiculars, so you can be in the heart of Naples in minutes. But once you’re here, you may not want to leave. Vomero is the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet evening with a glass of wine while gazing out at the city below.

#visitnaples #visitamalficoast #sal 

⛈️ Things to do in Naples when it rains: save-day tips with Sal

   ✅ To be up-to-date with the best tips /info  about  Naples + Amalfi Coast + Sorrento + Capri + Ischia + Procida + Pompeii + Herculaneum + Vesuvius + Oplontis  - follow my group on Facebook  - a big community of more than 40k members  - link below 👇

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Things to do in Naples when it rains: save-day tips

The ideal option on these dreary days is certainly to try your hand at discovering the art of museums. In Naples, the choice is really wide, given the various fascinating places to discover. Let us try to list some of the most important ones . 

Here we are! Finally, the day of your departure has arrived and you are excited to reach Naples, the city of the sun, the mild climate and the blue sky that matches with the sea. Unfortunately, right now the weather does not have nice surprises for you and the first raindrops start to wet your hair. Do not despair! Naples has multiple “axes in the hole” to come to your rescue. So, relax and take a look at these tips on what to do in Naples when it rains.

Mann (Museo Archeologico Nazionale)

The Archaeological National Museum of Naples is one of the most important museum of the world thanks to its greek and roman collection. It boasts the richest and most valuable patrimony of works of art and archaeological artefacts in Italy and exhibits bourbon collections of bronzes, marbles, paintings and furnishings from the excavations of Pompeii, Herculaneum and other Campanian destinations. It also includes sections dedicated to Etruscan and Egyptian antiquities and ancient coins.

How to get there: Get off at “Museo” metro line 1, or “Cavour” for Line 2

Ticket: €22. Reduced-price €2.

Timetable: Daily 9-19:30. Closed on Tuesdays.

Address : Piazza Museo, 19, 80135 Napoli NA

Google link : https://g.co/kgs/FnEVbuk

Offcial website : https://mann-napoli.it/

Official Online ticket : https://mann-napoli.it/orari-e-tariffe/

Hours: daily from 9AM to 7:30PM (some gallery halls are only open either in the morning or the afternoon); closed Tuesdays. Last entry 60 minutes before closing.

Duration of the visit: 3-5 hours

Capodimonte Museum

The Capodimonte Museum and Real Bosco di Capodimonte is located within the Royal Palace of the same name. It includes the National Gallery with the Farnese collection, the Neapolitan gallery dedicated to works from ‘ 200 to ‘ 700, the historic apartment, the porcelain collection, the armoury and other collections. You will be able to admire the masterpieces of Baroque and Neapolitan renaissance but also Caravaggio, Botticelli and Andy Warhol.

How to get there: the shuttle bus Capodimonte allows tourists to reach the museum from the city centre, starting every hour from Piazza Trieste and Trento.

Ticket: €15.

Timetable: Every day except Wednesdays from 8.30 am to 7.30 pm. The last entry is at 6.30 pm.

Address : Via Miano, 2, 80131 Napoli NA 

Google link : https://g.co/kgs/982ExUn

Official Online ticket : https://capodimonte.cultura.gov.it/biglietti/

Official Website : https://capodimonte.cultura.gov.it/

Duration of the visit : 3-5 hours without the grounds

Villa Pignatelli

House-Museum located at the Riviera di Chiaia that exhibits nineteenth-century furniture, porcelain, furnishings, ceramics and carriages. The furnishings express the nineteenth century elegance of an extremely refined taste inspired by the most varied styles, such as the Baroque or the Renaissance.

How to get there: from Piazza Garibaldi take Bus 151 or metro line L2, stop Amedeo.

Admission to the Museum: €5. 

Admission to the Park: €2.

Hours: daily from 09:30 to 17:00 except Tuesdays.

Official website : https://palazzorealedinapoli.org/sedi/villa-pignatelli/

Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/CijSRzsr1C6L1zXV7

PAN (Palazzo delle Arti di Napoli)

Located in the eighteenth-century Palazzo Roccella, is the Neapolitan Museum of Contemporary Arts where art works are manifested in their rich expressions: painting, sculpture, architecture, photography, design, cinema, video-art, comics, etc. The Museum welcomes permanent exhibitions and also of internationally renowned artists.

How to get there: Metro Line 2 (Piazza Garibaldi – Piazza Amedeo); Bus R3 (from Piazza Municipio to the Riviera di Chiaia); Funicular (via Cimarosa – Piazza Amedeo).

Ticket: The maximum cost of the tickets is 11 euro, the reduced-price for groups costs 10 euro. The special reduced, reserved for under 26, is 5 euros.

Timetable: Open every day -except Tuesdays- from 9.30 a.m. to 19.30 a.m. Sunday open from 9.30 to 14.30.

Official website : https://www.comune.napoli.it/pan-palazzodelleartinapoli

Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/Mt6mqaQ6eSjci1a48

MADRE (Museo d’Arte contemporanea Donna Regina)

With its exhibition of contemporary national and international art masterpieces, the MADRE museum it is one of the most important museum poles in southern Italy. It is located in the old Palazzo Donna Regina, in the heart of the historic center, and develops on 4,500 sqm of exhibition area, divided into 4 levels and in two large interior courtyards. 

How to get there: Metro Line 1 — Museum stop. Metro Line 2 — Piazza Cavour stop

Ticket: Full price € 8; Reduced € 4.

Timetable: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 10.00 — 19.30; Sunday: 10.00 am — 8.00 pm

The ticket office closes an hour earlier. Closed on Tuesdays

Official website : https://www.madrenapoli.it/

Location :  https://maps.app.goo.gl/LwyprQhNNqoEQWkv7

The metro stations of the art to be photographed

Did you just get off the train and notice the rain on the horizon? If your stop corresponds to one of the many metro stations of the art, you can keep up a little more and take advantage to contemplate and take pictures of the art works. The indoor and outdoor spaces of the stations hosted around 200 works by 100 of the most prestigious contemporary authors. We are talking about 'decentralised' museums, open exhibition routes for a dynamic enjoyment of the artistic artefact. We try to collect the most beautiful ones.

🟢 Toledo Station 

Winner of the award “most beautiful station in Europe”. The “Crater de Luz” crosses in depth all the levels of the station, illuminated by the opera “Relative Light” by Robert Wilson: thousands of leds on the chromatic range of the blues create suggestive luminous atmospheres. The walls are covered with the mosaics of Kentridge, which stages a procession of figures and objects inspired by the history of the city of Naples 

Toledo metro Location :  https://share.google/Kd10NHtm4fMihgOrj

🟢Università Station

A rich colored station in the area where some Neapolitan universities are located. The architect and designer Karim Rashid has created spaces aimed to transmitting the knowledge and the languages of the new digital age without forgetting the great Italian and Neapolitan humanistic tradition. Beyond the turnstiles is visible the opera “Conversational profile”, a metaphor for dialogue and communication between human beings.

Università Station Location : https://share.google/qd2HgpbBvvWXQ3gzM

🟢Museo Station

Made according to the project of Gae Aulenti. The appearance and color of this station, with its red plaster and the volcanic stone, recall the structure of the nearby National Archaeological Museum (MANN). The atrium of the station houses a fibreglass of Hercules Farnese while in the secondary entrance hall there is a bronze mold of the imposing horse head called Carafa. Along the corridors you can admire the black and white photographs of Mimmo Jodice.

Museo station Location : https://share.google/cACyToFzOCFDqJdpP

🟢Chiaia 

The Chiaia metro station was designed by architect Uberto Siola, and its artistic installation is by the British director and artist Peter Greenaway. The station, which connects two different levels of the city, was inaugurated in 2024 as part of the expansion of Naples

Chiaia Station Location : https://share.google/MXusSh8blcnpVerKi

Museo Cappella San Severo  - 1593 ( San  Severo  Chapel )

The Sansevero Chapel (or Museo Cappella Sansevero) is an artistic and historical jewel in Naples, Italy, renowned for its unique Baroque art and enigmatic atmosphere. While it's a museum, not a technology itself, it is famous for holding the iconic Veiled Christ sculpture and for the mystery surrounding its Anatomical Machines, which are eerily lifelike models of the human circulatory system. 

How to get there: Metro Line 1 — Toledo  stop. Metro Line 2 — Piazza Cavour stop

Ticket: Full price € 12; Reduced € 6.

Timetable:  Daily: 9.00 am – 7.00 pm / Closed on Tuesdays

Last entry 30 mins before closing

My tip : pre-book the ticket on line to skip the long line

Address : Via Francesco de Sanctis, 19/21, 80134 Napoli NA

Google link : https://g.co/kgs/d3a7VVE

Tripadvisor link : https://www.tripadvisor.it/Attraction_Review-g187785...

On line ticket : https://www.museosansevero.it/la.../la-cappella/storia

Naples Underground  - 4th century BC - (Napoli Sotterranea ) 

In the 4th century BC, ancient Greek colonists began the Naples Underground by quarrying tuff stone to build the city of Neapolis, leaving behind the first network of caverns and tunnels. These quarries were later expanded by the Romans into an aqueduct system to supply the city with water. This vast, multi-layered subterranean network, which stretches for 280 miles under modern Naples, continued to be developed for over 2,500 years, becoming an important resource for the city and eventually serving as air-raid shelters during World War II. 

How to get there: Metro Line 1 — Dante  stop. Metro Line 2 — Piazza Cavour stop

Ticket: Full price € 16 

Timetable:  Guided tours in English: daily at 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm and 6 pm.

My tip : pre-book the ticket on line to skip the long line

Address : Piazza San Gaetano, 68

Tripadvisor link : https://www.tripadvisor.it/Attraction_Review-g187785...

Official webpage : https://www.napolisotterranea.org/en/

Offical skip the line ticket : https://booking.napolisotterranea.org/?action=changelang...

The Bourbon  Tunnel  (1853) - the secret escape tunnel of ferdinand ll of  Bourbon

The Bourbon Tunnel  (Galleria Borbonica) is a historical underground passage in Naples, originally built as a secret escape route for the king and later used as a WWII bomb shelter and illegal car impound

Construction began in 1853 under King Ferdinand II of Bourbon to create a secure, underground passage from the Royal Palace to Piazza Vittoria and the military barracks. 

How to get there: Metro Line 1 — Municipio   stop. Metro Line 2 — Piazza Amedeo stop

Ticket: Full price € 10/15 -  Reduced € 5

Timetable:  11 : 00 am  -  18 :00 

Address : Via Domenico Morelli, 61 c, 80121 Napoli NA

Official website - online ticket : https://www.galleriaborbonica.com/it/home/home/

The Naples  Duomo  and the Treasure  of San Gennaro

✅ The Duomo of Naples, officially the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is a 13th-century Roman Catholic cathedral and the city's main church, famously housing the relics of Naples' patron saint, Saint Januarius, and his coagulated blood, which is venerated in the Baroque San Gennaro Chapel. The cathedral showcases a mix of architectural styles, including a Gothic interior and a Neo-Gothic facade, and is a central site for the annual Miracle of San Gennaro.

✅The Museum of the Treasure of San Gennaro is certainly one of the main attractions in Naples, an artistic boast of unique richness. In fact, the treasure of the same name is one of the most important and precious religious treasures in the world; it is kept in the city's cathedral, thus in the very centre.

How to get there: How to get there: Metro Line 1 — Museo  stop. Metro Line 2 — Piazza Cavour  stop

Ticket: Full price  € 12 only for the museum ( the duomo is free entrance) 

Address :  Via Duomo, 147, 80138 Napoli NA

Google link : https://g.co/kgs/VjGmZex

Naples Duomo tickets and opening hours : The church itself is free to enter; audioguides to the Chapel of San Gennaro are €4/each. Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM - 7:30 PM; Sunday 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM and 4:30 - 7:30 PM.

The Archeological Excavations of San Lorenzo Maggiore  (476 B.C.) and the Church of San Lorenzo Maggiore ( 1283 ) -  " La neapolis Sotterranea "

The archaeological excavations of San Lorenzo Maggiore in Naples are a fascinating site that showcases the city's rich history. Located beneath the basilica and convent of San Lorenzo Maggiore, the excavations began in 1976 and have uncovered the remains of the ancient Macellum, a Roman market built around the 1st century AD. This structure features a central edicola with a colonnaded tholos, likely housing a fountain, and surrounding porticoes with shops.

How to get there: How to get there: Metro Line 1 — Dante   stop. Metro Line 2 — Piazza Cavour  stop

Ticket: Full price  € 11  guide included  -  Reduced € 6

Timetable:  9 : 30  am  -  17 :30 

Address: Piazza San Gaetano, 316, 80138 Napoli NA

Opening hours : Every day from 9.30am to 5.30pm

On line ticket + Guided tour : https://www.laneapolissotterrata.it/Home/Index?aspxerrorpath=/it/prenotazioni-tour-operator-scuole-e-associazioni/

The Catacombs of San Gennaro and San Gaudioso 551 B.C.

The Catacombs of San Gennaro are underground paleo-Christian burial and worship sites in Naples, Italy, carved out of tuff, a porous stone. They are situated in the northern part of the city, on the slope leading up to Capodimonte, consisting of two levels, San Gennaro Superiore, and San Gennaro Inferiore.

Location: Located near the Basilica Santa Maria della Sanità, Piazza Sanità, 14.

How to get there: How to get there: Metro Line 1 — Museo    stop. Metro Line 2 — Piazza Cavour  stop

Ticket: Full price  € 13  guide included  -  Reduced € 6

Timetable:  10 : 00  am  -  17 : 00   

Important Tips :  Combined Ticket cost € 13.00 ( per person) and you also have the opportunity to see the catacombs of San Gennaro with the same ticket . Tours are available in english/french/italian/spanish . The tour starts every hour from 10 am to 5 pm

Address : Via Capodimonte, 13, 80100 Napoli NA

Google link : https://g.co/kgs/ALUDv4u

Official website and Online ticket : https://catacombedinapoli.it/it/

Cafe/bistrot  + reading  and relax ?👇(inside the beautiful Galleria Umbero l - Naples) 

☕️ Mondadori Bookstore: The Heart of Neapolitan Reading ,your new favorite place for books, coffee, and connection📚☕️✨

📚 Located in the heart of Naples, Mondadori Bookstore stands out with its beautiful design. It is considered by some to be the most beautiful bookstore in the city. The store offers a wide selection of books and a relaxing atmosphere. It also features a small cafeteria with friendly staff. In addition, the bookstore provides free and fast WiFi. 

Address : Via Santa Brigida 68, 80132 Napoli NA (inside Galleria Umberto l )

Google link : https://maps.app.goo.gl/MCubqKpnZVSzQ4rL7

First Time in Italy? Read This Before You Make These Errors

  ✅ To be up-to-date with the best tips /info  about  Naples + Amalfi Coast + Sorrento + Capri + Ischia + Procida + Pompeii + Herculaneum + Vesuvius + Oplontis  - follow my group on Facebook  - a big community of more than 40k members  - link below 👇

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✅ Sitting Down at a Café Costs More : A coffee that costs €1.20 at the bar can jump to €3 or more if you sit at a table — especially in tourist zones. Why? Because you’re not just paying for the coffee — you’re paying to sit and be served. Locals drink standing up.

✅ Taxis Start Charging Before You Get In : Italian taxis begin the meter from when they’re dispatched — not when you enter. So if you call a taxi to your hotel, the meter might already read €5–€10 when you get inside. Also: luggage fees, night rates, and Sunday/holiday surcharges are common.

✅ Tassa di Soggiorno (Tourist Tax) : Nearly every town and city in Italy charges a local tourist tax — called the “tassa di soggiorno.” It’s a daily fee per person, added to your accommodation cost, and it varies depending on the city, hotel rating, and type of lodging.

✅ Not Saving Emergency Numbers :  Save these before your flight: 112 (emergency), 113 (police), 118 (medical), 115 (fire), and 116 (roadside assistance). They could save your trip.

✅ Driving Without an International Driving Permit :  You legally need one, even if the rental counter doesn’t ask. Police won’t care.

✅ Trains Are Your Best Friend (But Only If You Know How They Work) : Trains in Italy are fantastic — fast, scenic, and often cheaper than flying. But they come with a learning curve.

There are two main kinds: high-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Italo, and slower regional trains. High-speed trains are sleek and reserved-seating only — no validation needed. Regional trains? Cheaper, no seat assignments, and you must validate your paper ticket at the platform before boarding. Skip that step and you could be fined €50 or more.

Book high-speed routes in advance online to get the best prices. And always know your train number — destinations can repeat, but the train code is your anchor.

Strikes do happen (we call them "scioperi"), but usually services are reduced, not canceled. Just check ahead if your trip falls on a Friday.

TRAINLINE is best website to book your train in advance : https://www.thetrainline.com/it

or from  the national railway company TRENITALIA : https://www.trenitalia.com/it.html

Or from a new and growing Italian rail company like ITALOTRENO : https://www.italotreno.com/it

 

✅ Power Problems: Don't Fry Your Hairdryer : Italy uses 220V electricity and Type L plugs. That means many American devices won’t just need an adapter — they’ll need a voltage converter.

Most phone and laptop chargers are dual voltage (check the fine print: if it says 100–240V, you’re safe). Hair tools? Not so much. If your hair straightener or curling iron only says 110V, plugging it in could kill the device — or the outlet.

Bring a European version or leave it at home. If you’re traveling with family, pack a multi-port USB charger — many Airbnbs only have one or two outlets.

✅ If You Get Sick: What Actually Works

Skip the emergency room unless it’s serious. In Italy, your first stop should always be the local farmacia — the green cross sign you’ll see on almost every block.

Pharmacists here are highly trained and will help with common issues like colds, headaches, allergies, and minor stomach bugs. For anything stronger, like antibiotics, you’ll need a doctor’s prescription. In bigger cities, there are tourist medical services with English-speaking doctors, though these are private and usually cost €50–€100.

Need medicine late at night? Each neighborhood has a rotating “farmacia di turno” — check the list posted outside any pharmacy or search online.

And don’t forget: if you take prescription medication regularly, bring enough for your entire stay, in the original packaging, and keep it in your carry-on.

✅ Not Validating Regional Train Tickets :  If it’s a paper ticket, find the yellow or green box and validate it—no excuses. Fast train no need validation

✅ Ignoring Transport Strikes :  Italy loves its scioperi (strikes), especially on Mondays and Fridays. Always check online before major travel days.

✅  Driving Into ZTL Zones :  Those sneaky “Zona a Traffico Limitato” signs? Miss one, and you’ll get a €100+ fine weeks later.

✅ Trusting Google Maps Blindly : in a Car It won't warn you about ZTLs or restricted areas. Use Waze or check with your hotel.

✅Booking Rental Cars Last-Minute In Italy, your reservation can vanish if you're late. Double confirm your pickup.

✅ Renting Oversized Cars Italy’s  : streets are not SUV-friendly. Small and nimble wins.

✅Not Photographing the Rental Car Document  at pickup and drop-off : Protect yourself from false damage fees.

✅ Skipping Travel Insurance :  A medical emergency or lost bag could cost you thousands. It’s not optional—get it.

✅ Not Using a Credit Card : in the Driver’s NameRental agencies require it. Debit cards often get rejected.

✅ Renting Electric Cars Without Planning Charging Stops :  Charging infrastructure is spotty. Know where to power up before committing.

✅ Ignoring the “Disco Orario” Rule Free parking zones need a paper clock in the window. Ask for one at a gas station.

✅ Dining in High-Rent Tourist Zones :  Restaurants next to monuments = high prices, low quality. Walk 3 blocks for better food.

✅ Sitting on the Spanish Steps or Monuments It’s banned :  Fines start at €250—and yes, they enforce it.

✅ Snacking on Historic Sites :  Eating on fountains, steps, or statues is a fineable offense.

✅ Feeding Pigeons in Big Cities They’re cute : until they destroy ancient buildings. Feeding them = up to €500 in fines.

✅ ATMs with High Withdrawal Fees : Stick to ATMs (called “bancomat”) at actual banks. Many independent machines — especially those near tourist sites — charge outrageous fees and bad exchange rates. If the machine prompts you to accept a conversion rate, always decline it and let your bank handle the exchange.

✅ Bring some cash for the little things like : City tax (tourist tax is mandatory by low depends on the star rating of your hotel as to how much it costs per person per day) more and less € 5/€ 8 per day/per person , Ice cream, some souvenirs, tips

✅ Flying a Drone Without Authorization : It is  strictly regulated, especially in historic zones. Huge fines.

✅ Tipping it is not mandatory but it is always well apreciated  :  if the service is good obviuously,  the "Coperto" on your bill , it is not a tip for the staff , but only for the owner Wages in italy are very low Tipping only cash (no credir card) No tipping in dollars

✅ Drinking in Public Without Checking Local Rules :  Some cities have time or zone bans. Look for signs.

✅  Lugging Giant Suitcases Around  : Italy Cobblestones, narrow doors, and trains make them a nightmare. Go carry-on size.

✅ Signing Petitions in Tourist Areas :  It’s almost always a scam to pressure you into donating.

✅ Playing the Shell Game on the Street : It’s a setup. “Winners” are actors. You will lose.

✅ Letting Strangers “Help” After a Spill  : Fake accidents are a pickpocketing tactic. Stay alert.

✅ Using Cards with Foreign Transaction  Fees :  Get a travel card with no international fees to avoid extra costs.

✅  Not Asking for Gelato Prices :  Some places scam tourists with €10 cones (more common Venice , Florence , Milan , Rome ) . Always ask first.

✅Visiting Churches Dressed Like It’s the Beach :  no shorts, no sleeveless tops. Bring a scarf or cover-up.

✅ Booking Museums Without Checking Time Slots : Many big sites use timed tickets. Miss it, and you’re out of luck. Same for Pompeii 

✅ Showing Up for a Tour Without Checking Email Tour times :  sometimes change. Always confirm 24 hours in advance.

✅  Bringing Huge Bags or Selfie Sticks to Museums :  They may not be allowed, and cloakroom lines can be long.

✅ Expecting Free Beach Access :  Many Amalfi and Ligurian beaches charge €30+ per day. Reserve in advance.

✅ Coming in August Without Reservations : It’s peak chaos. No tables, no rooms, and lots of heat.

✅Museum Add-ons and Booking Fees : Booking online often includes a “pre-sale” or “booking” fee of €2–€4 per ticket. Also, some museums charge extra for temporary exhibitions, special access, or guided visits — even if you already have a general entry ticket. Always read the fine print.

Italy isn’t expensive by default — it just plays by different rules. If you know what to expect, you won’t be surprised. And that makes all the difference.

 ✅  Avoiding Tourist Traps (and Finding Real Italian Food) : If you see a menu with photos, flags, or five different cuisines — run. Real Italian restaurants don’t need signs that say “We Have English Menu!” — we just do.

The best food is usually two or three blocks from any famous landmark.

The menu will be handwritten or short. There may only be a few dishes — and that’s a good thing.

We don’t eat spaghetti with meatballs, garlic bread, or fettuccine Alfredo. We do eat whatever’s in season, drink house wine by the carafe, and linger at the table.

And yes, bread and water cost money — it’s called pane e coperto. It’s normal. If a Margherita pizza costs €15 and tastes like cardboard? You’re in a tourist trap.

How to Handle Yourself in a Restaurant (Without Looking Lost)

In Italy, restaurants work differently. No one will rush you. You can stay as long as you like. But that also means the waiter won’t bring you the check until you ask. Want to leave? Say: “Il conto, per favore.”

Tipping? It’s not expected. We leave a couple of coins if the service was great.

Don’t order cappuccino after lunch. It’s not illegal, but it will get you looks. Ask for “un caffè” — that’s an espresso.

Tap water? You can ask for acqua del rubinetto, but many places prefer to serve bottled. Always check.

And if the place looks charming but only accepts cash, it’s probably still worth it. Just be prepared.

✅ Assuming Shops Stay Open All Day :  Riposo/Siesta  (afternoon break) still exists. Plan shopping for morning or evening.

✅ The Coperto (Cover Charge)  Sit down at most restaurants, and you’ll see a charge of €1–€3 per person on the bill labeled “coperto.” This is not a scam. It’s a long-standing custom that covers bread and table service. It’s charged per person — even if you don’t eat the bread. The coperto is not for the staff but only for the owner

✅ Planning Train Trips With Tight Lay overs :  One late arrival can ruin your whole itinerary. Leave wiggle room.

✅ Adding Cheese to Seafood Pasta :  Italians don’t do this. You’ll get side-eye from locals.

✅ Relying on Just One Phone Charger : Bring a power bank—your phone is your lifeline.

✅ Not Downloading Offline Maps Cell :  signal drops in small towns. Google Maps offline is a lifesaver.

✅ Ignoring Weather-Based Regional Challenges :  Floods in Venice, heatwaves in Rome, wind in the Dolomites , sea conditions on Amalfi coast - Capri - Ischia and Naples —pack and plan accordingly.

🏺 How long does it take to visit the Pompeii ruins? 2 hours , 5 hours , one day or more ?

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✅ Are you visiting the excavations of Pompeii and don't know how much time to devote to your visit?

You should know that the Excavations, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, have an extension of 440,000 square meters and are one of the most visited archaeological sites in Italy.

A vast, important site, rich in history and monuments that requires to be really visited all of it at least one day.

Visiting this site, in fact, offers a journey back in time to 79 AD, when the city was buried by a devastating eruption of Vesuvius. To fully understand the historical and cultural richness of Pompeii, it is important to plan your visit properly, taking into account the time you have to explore the many attractions the site has to offer.

✅  2-hour short visit to the Pompeii excavations

If your time is limited or you plan to visit other attractions during the day then I recommend that you focus on the highlights. In this itinerary you will be able to visit the most important and most frequently visited places in ancient times by Pompeians.

These include: the forum, the basilica, the great and small theater, the house of the faun, the lupanare, and the Stabian baths.

In short, the most famous and well-known places in the world. If you want to enrich your visit even more and don't want to get lost among the many narrow streets of Pompeii with a map in your hands then book a guided tour.

In two hours with the help of an experienced tour guide you will have the opportunity not only to see all these places, but also to learn about their history and discover all the small details that you will not be able to see on your own.

Visiting Pompeii with a guide will enrich your sightseeing experience and you will leave the Archaeological Park with a rich and full cultural background.

✅ 5-hour visit to Pompeii

If, on the other hand, you want to totally immerse yourself in the history of these places and discover every facet and detail of them, but you do not have a full day at your disposal, then make a visit of at least 5 hours.

Having more time on your hands will allow you to explore Pompeii in greater depth, visiting even the lesser-visited areas and secondary sites. You can admire the lesser-known private houses, you can go as far as the amphitheater. Get to know the small details that will make all the difference in your trip to Pompeii.

A challenging, sometimes tiring route that I recommend you do during periods that are not particularly hot, so avoid July, August and early September, and if you can, avoid doing it with young children. Who might get tired or bored from spending too many hours at the site.

If you want to book a guided tour, I recommend that you do so with a guide who is not only knowledgeable and experienced. But also friendly and fun, who will make your visit interesting but not heavy and boring. Here I point you to a suitable tour if you want to visit Pompeii in 5 hours.

✅ Visit Pompeii in a day

If, on the other hand, you are an archaeology and history buff, a full day or even two may be necessary to explore every nook and cranny of Pompeii.

This approach allows you to appreciate the details of the works of art and visit the museum within the site. By devoting a full day to a visit, you will be able to see Pompeii in its entirety; you can pause to admire the many frescoes that adorn its houses. Get to little-known corners. Discover details, for big fans, that on a short visit you will not even have time to see.

In this case, however, to visit Pompeii entirely, it is necessary to do the Pompeii Plus ticket. That also includes Villa of the Mysteries and Villa Diomende, which cannot be visited with the Pompeii Express ticket. Indeed visitable but at the increased cost of €8.00. With the Pompeii Plus ticket you will pay € 22 admission, including shuttle service to Boscoreale to visit the site and the antiquarium of the town of the same name.

So as you have come to understand, Pompeii because of its great extent requires at least a day's visit or even two if you want to visit it all in every little detail.

But already a 2-hour visit will allow you to get to know the main and most famous sites of Pompeii.

In any case, the time needed to visit the excavations of Pompeii varies greatly depending on personal interests and the time available.

Whether it is a short visit to admire the main points of interest or a full day dedicated to discovering every detail. Pompeii offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will allow you to relive the daily life of a Roman city 2000 years ago.