DK Eyewitness - DK Eyewitness Top 10 Naples and the Amalfi Coast (Pocket Travel Guide)

Clockwise from top: Procida Island, Spaccanapoli in Naples, Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, seafront street lined with cafs in Amalfi, mosaic of Medusa at Museo Archeologico Nazionale in Naples, boats near the entrance to Blue Grotto at Capri, Temple of Hera in Paestum

From the vibrant streets of the city to sun-kissed beaches, dramatic cliff-hugging roads, ancient temples and island paradises, Naples and the Amalfi Coast is a hive of historical, cultural and natural beauty. With DK Eyewitness Top 10 Naples and the Amalfi Coast, the region is yours to explore.

Its hard not to fall in love with this region: the colours, the history, the beauty. What could be better than watching the sun setting across the Bay of Naples from the Castel dellOvo, uncovering historical treasures at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, devouring a Neapolitan pizza hot from the oven, seeing the pastel-coloured cascade of homes in Positano or sipping a limoncello in Amalfi? Its all here, packed into an unforgettably beautiful landscape.

Explore the cultural and artistic treasures that lie just moments from the coast. Step back in time at the ancient towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum or visit the best-preserved Greek temples in the world at Paestum. Escape to the island of Capri for natural beauty and to soak in the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea, or get lost amid the grandeur of the Reggia di Caserta. With so much to see and do, this is one of Italys most diverse areas to discover.

Whether youre visiting for a weekend or a week, our Top 10 guide brings together the best of everything the region has to offer, from the historic streets of Spaccanapoli to the panoramic vistas of Ravello. The guide has useful tips throughout, from seeking out whats free to places off the beaten track, plus six easy-to-follow itineraries, designed to tie together a clutch of sights in a short space of time. Add inspiring photography and detailed maps, and youve got the essential pocket-sized travel companion. Enjoy the book, and enjoy Naples and the Amalfi Coast.

Exploring Naples and the Amalfi Coast

One of Italys most diverse regions, Naples and the Amalfi Coast offer a wealth of artistic treasures, culture and natural beauty to discover. Here are some ideas to make the most of your stay, from a fun-packed weekend break in Naples to a leisurely, week-long itinerary of the area.

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Two Days in Naples

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Day 1

Morning

Start in the heart of Royal Naples (see , known as the birthplace of Neapolitan pizza.

Afternoon

Revel in the vibrant atmosphere of .

Spaccanapoli cuts a pathway through the heart of Naples.

Day 2

Morning

Step back in time at the fascinating Roman ruins of . The Circumvesuviana train links both archaeological parks to Naples.

Afternoon

Return to Naples to see the ancient treasures at the .

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Seven Days in Naples and the Amalfi Coast

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Days 1 and 2

Follow the two-day Naples itinerary.

Day 3

Head to Naples highest district to visit the are close by.

Day 4

If desired, transfer your base to the Amalfi Coast and explore for its fine gardens and views.

Day 5

Enjoy a drive along the , or take a ferry to soak up the sun in Positano, known as the Vertical City.

Clinging to the hillside, Positano is a stunning backdrop to the sandy beach.

Day 6

Take the ferry to where highlights include the famous Blue Grotto, spectacular views from Monte Solaro in Anacapri, the picturesque Marina Piccola and shopping in Capri Town.

Day 7

Discover the ancient Greek ruins of and visit the excellent museum on site here.

The Greco-Roman site of Paestum has the fascinating remains of three ancient Greek temples.

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Top 10 Naples and the Amalfi Coast Highlights

Ruins of the Roman forum, Pompeii, with Mount Vesuvius in the background

Top 10 Naples and the Amalfi Coast Highlights

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PALAZZO REALE, NAPLES

One glance at this imposing royal palace and it becomes clear that, in its heyday, Naples was one of Europes most important cities and home to one of the Mediterraneans most glittering royal courts. Begun in 1600, it was designed by Domenico Fontana and completed in two years. Additions, including the grand staircase, were made over the years, and it was redesigned in the 18th and 19th centuries. The edifice was a royal residence until 1946, when the monarchy was exiled for its support of Benito Mussolinis Fascist regime.

NEED TO KNOW

Piazza del Plebiscito 1 848 800 288 Open 9am8pm MonTue, ThuSun (last entry 7pm) Adm 10

Google Map

• , located in a stylish piazza next to the palace, is an excellent choice for a drink, snacks or a full meal.
• The Biblioteca Nazionale is open to the public (8:30am7pm MonFri). Reservations for consultations, loans and study stations are recommended (www.bnnonline.it)