Naples for couples

Arrival in Naples...

Arriving in Naples is already a spectacle: the shimmering sea, Mount Vesuvius in the background, and the constant movement of boats bringing the Gulf to life. As soon as you step off, the air is filled with the scent of salt and coffee, and the city unfolds before you in all its charm.

I can’t help but give you a little tip: before starting your tour, stop by a café and order an espresso like a true Neapolitan,"tazzulella ‘e cafè," strong, intense, and served piping hot. If you want a little extra indulgence, pair it with a freshly baked sfogliatella.

Continuing along the seafront, the first stop is the Maschio Angioino, one of Italy’s most imposing fortresses. This medieval castle, commissioned by Charles I of Anjou in the 13th century, has hosted kings and queens and been the setting for battles and conspiracies.

And here’s a secret: it’s said that beneath the castle lie hidden tunnels filled with treasures and secret passageways… Naples is always a mystery waiting to be uncovered!

It’s true that this giant will capture your attention, but don’t linger too long, you have so much more to see, so let’s get moving!

Following the coastline, you’ll arrive at Piazza del Plebiscito, a symbol of the city with its grand layout and the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola, reminiscent of Rome’s Pantheon. This square is steeped in history, from the Bourbon dynasty to the House of Savoy and modern-day events.

There’s a local tradition here that you might want to try! They say that if you close your eyes and attempt to walk straight across the square from the Royal Palace to the basilica without veering off course, you’ll have good luck… but only few succeed!

Wandering through centuries of history...

Walking along Via Chiaia, one of Naples’ historic shopping streets, you’ll reach two cultural gems, the first being the Teatro San Carlo, the oldest opera house in Europe and still a temple of classical music today. Its acoustics are so perfect that even a whisper from the stage can be heard in every corner of the hall.

Just across the street, you’ll find Galleria Umberto I, a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture. Its glass and iron dome lets the sunlight in, creating spectacular reflections. But don’t just admire its beauty, step into the Mondadori Library to access the underground section of the Galleria, which holds historical artifacts and even a bar, in case you need a refreshing break!

Now, let’s continue up Via Toledo, which leads into the Spanish Quarter, a maze of colorful alleys filled with murals, hanging laundry, and voices echoing through the streets. Here, you’ll experience the most authentic side of Naples, with historic shops, street shrines, and tiny restaurants serving the aroma of ragù and eggplant parmigiana.

A must-see here is the iconic mural of Maradona, be sure to capture a unique photo!

Uncovering something new at every step...

Exiting the Spanish Quarter and crossing Corso Vittorio Emanuele, you’ll climb up to the Certosa di San Martino, an ancient monastery offering one of the most incredible views of the city.

Here, Baroque art meets the serenity of a quiet cloister, a perfect contrast to the lively chaos below.

Once you’re here, you can’t miss Castel Sant’Elmo, a medieval fortress towering over Naples. From its ramparts, the city spreads out beneath you in a breathtaking panorama.

By now, after such an intense morning, it’s time for a delicious break.

In Naples, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to food, but if I had to recommend one thing, I’d say try the "Cuoppo di mare", a cone of crispy fried seafood, perfect to enjoy while strolling.

Where? Well, as you descend from the Certosa, head back into the Spanish Quarter, where you’ll find some of the best fry shops for an authentic Neapolitan street food experience.

Now that you’ve tasted the sea, it’s time to dive back into the history of this incredible city by making your way down to the historic center along Spaccanapoli, the street that literally splits the old town in two.