The Port of Naples is without a doubt the most important one in Italy, and the second in the world for number of passengers. Did you know that?
Well, surely it is also famous for its beauty, being located in the centre of the marvellous Gulf of Naples: the ideal starting point (if you arrive by cruise ship) to depart for some interesting excursions in Southern Italy.
If you are planning to arrive in Naples by cruise ship, and you want to visit the main attractions in the region, keep on reading! We have listed our top 5 (+1) most beautiful shore excursions departing from the Port of Naples.
1. Capri Island
It is amazing how a small trip by hydrofoil is enough to step out of the chaotic atmosphere of Naples, and approach the pacific, luxurious scenario of Capri Island. Surrounded by the bluest sea you could ever imagine, Capri boasts the timeless charm of Italian Dolce Vita, combined with the legends of Ulysses and the Sirens.
A real gem in the Mediterranean sea, this Island is just not comparable with any other you have visited so far. It might be because of the Faraglioni that emerge from the sea, because of the Blue Grotto or because the atmosphere that you can breathe into its ancient centre, the wonderful Anacapri… The result is that this Island will simply make you fall in love.
Ps: Don’t forget to admire the baroque Church of Santo Stefano and the Certosa di San Giacomo!
2. Pompeii and Herculaneum
Those places will make happy all the history-lovers who want to make a real time travel, back to 79 AD. It was at that time that the Mount Vesuvius (for more information: take a look at the following point) erupted, covering the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum in ashes and volcanic materials.
You cannot miss a shore excursion to Pompeii and Herculaneum. Those places are among the most incredible archaeological sites in the world, priceless value testimony of an ancient tragedy that has left us the possibility to visit a Roman town unbelievably well preserved.
During a local-Ancient-Roman-day in Pompeii and Herculaneum, you can visit the ancient homes, the amphitheatre and the thermal baths. Passing along the gym, you can almost hear the screams of the gladiators training.
3. Mount Vesuvius
And here it is, the guilty party of 79 AD eruption: the volcano in a quiescent state since 1944 that surmounts Naples, giving to its skyline a unique appearance.
You might think people may feel uncomfortable about living on the slopes of an active volcano, but the Neapolitan citizens and their neighbours have simply get used to it. And you will love it as well, as it’s one of the most picturesque natural areas of Italy, surrounded by a park filled with paths that will make nature lovers go crazy, and a huge crater that is definitely worth a visit.
After a walk on the trails that bring to the top of Mount Vesuvius, you will be in the ideal position to give a look at the Gulf of Naples and its sea. It will be an insight in the heart of the Earth… not to be missed!
4. The Amalfi Coast
It is time to get back to relax and to sea-lovers! Do we really need to say something beyond “Amalfi Coast”? Well, we will, but you could just book your shore excursion to this amazing place.
Thetown of Amalfi is permeated by the scent of lemons and oranges growing on the terrace gardens, the alleys that surround the Romanesque cathedral, the colours of the local flora and flowers and of the houses, the San Francesco Tower and the Romanesque Cathedral. Those are just some of the reasons that deserved it the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site.
And then Positano, the sparkling dome of Santa Maria Assunta, that dominates its historical centre that climbs down into the blue sea. Its beaches and the panoramic road that leads to Ravello, peaceful and marvellous. Here, don’t miss a visit to the Duomo and the incredible, one-of-a-kind Villa Ruffolo.
5. The Royal Palace of Caserta
Our (almost) last proposal is surely not the least attractive on this list. On the contrary, it is a magical place, where the remains of ancient powers and opulence will enchant you.
The marble statues that will welcome you, in addition to the majesty of the park and its Fountains (do not forget to take a look at the Fountain of Diana!) and of the English Garden, will already make you imagine the luxury that awaits for you inside.
Surrounded by a 120 hectares park, the Royal Palace of Caserta is the highest expression of Eighteenth century baroque style, with its four courtyards and more than 1000 rooms, connected one to another by many staircase and enlightened by around 2000 windows. Follow the staircases up to the Palatine Chapel and remain speechless in front of the magnificence of this building.
(+1). Naples
Ok, it may seem obvious, but we simply couldn’t avoid suggesting a shore excursion of the city where your cruise ship is docking. And Naples is one of the cities you simply can’t miss in Italy.
Get hypnotized by its atmosphere, happy and chaotic, while sipping an espresso or tasting a slice of pizza. Walk by the neoclassical structure of Piazza del Plebiscito, enriched by the Royal Palace. Explore the main street of Spaccanapoli, the street that cuts the city in two, and admire the silhouette of Castel dell’Ovo on the small island of Megaride.
If you are up for some quiet, discover the elegant neighbour of Posillipo or the San Carlo Theatre, the most ancient of Europe or the Maschio Angioino (also known as “Castel Nuovo”). In addition, you might go shopping in Galleria Umberto I or visit the National Archaeological Museum or the Capodimonte one.
