Walking Around in Naples
Naples is a hilly city, but if you are fairly fit, walking can be a great way to explore this beautiful destination. Start your walking tour from the harbor where you can see the Maschio Angionio castle, which dominates the skyline of Napoli. You can walk around this ancient castle that was built in 1284 and visit the perfectly intact Palatine Chapel, which now serves as the Civic Museum. Now walk along the Via Medina which is filled with colorful Christmas decorations in the winter months. Cross the street towards the Fountain of Neptune. There are a few lovely cafes here, where you can stop for a gelato or coffee while you relax at the fountain. After a short break, walk towards the Royal Palace of Naples which was one of the four residences of the Bourbon Kings during their reign. The palace is now an excellent museum that is well worth a visit. If you don't have time for a guided tour, take a walk around the palace gardens to see the magnificent statues and well-maintained gardens. Finally, walk to the Piazza del Plebiscito to take photographs of the surrounding buildings before enjoying lunch at one of the many restaurants.
Eating in Napoli
The city of Napoli takes its culinary traditions from the surrounding region of Campania, with a number of the local dishes featuring seafood and pasta. Food is a very important part of the culture of Napoli and locals spend many hours each day around the dining table socializing and enjoying freshly prepared meals. Napoli is famous for producing thin crust pizza that is baked in a wood-fired oven, and no trip to Napoli would be complete without sampling a few pizzas. Head to Da Michele on the Via Cesare Sersale to try some of the best pizza in Napoli made by the Condurras family, who have been operating the restaurant since 1870. The Porta Nolana Market is the best place to try a variety of seafood dishes and sample the local street food. Those seeking an authentic local experience should try Ciro a Mergellina, where they serve seafood such as codfish and lobsters prepared in traditional methods. Vegetarians in Napoli will find a variety of dishes, such as gnocchi alla sorrentina, which consists of potato dumplings baked in a tomato sauce and topped with mozzarella cheese. Gluten-free and vegan options are often available if requested.
