Naples

“One can’t blame the Neapolitan for never wanting to leave his city, nor its poets singing its praises in lofty hyperboles: it would be wonderful even if a few more Vesuiviuses were to rise in the neighbourhood.” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. 

Thanks to its position on Italy’s southwest coast, Naples has been occupied since the 2nd-millennium BCE, when it was settled by Greeks. 

Wander around its narrow streets and immerse yourself in centuries of architecture. There are no less than  448  churches in a variety of medieval, Renaissance, and baroque architectural styles. Make sure you see the Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta and Church of San Gregorio Armeno.

Overlooked by  Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Roman cities destroyed in its eruption (79 CE), are just a short trip away.

Naples’ warm climate and its proximity to the sea means that you will find a spectacular array of fresh produce both at the market and in the city’s eateries. Don’t forget that Naples was the birthplace of the pizza. Naples’ long-standing association with the mafia has made it less popular with tourists than most other Italian cities. Whilst the rate of crime is still quite high and you should definitely take care of your possessions, the good thing is that it is relatively untouristy.