DK Travel : Naples & the Amalfi Coast

From one perspective, this area is an anomaly, at once one of the earth’s most beautiful and yet most accursed places. It has been the choice of the great and wealthy as their playground, while also being the scene of some of the greatest natural disasters and the grittiest human misery. Perhaps these irreconcilable twists of fate are at the root of the Neapolitans’ famously optimistic cynicism. The city of Naples itself is a vibrant urban setting, almost non-European in its intensity, while the beauty of the surrounding coast has been known to make grown men weep.

Grand Hotel Parker’s

This fine old hotel was a Grand Tour stopover and has recently been restored to its former glory, with antiques, chandeliers and original art. Be sure to visit the wonderful library, full of antiquarian books. There are two restaurants, one with postcard views from the roof garden.
Grand Hotel Quisisana

This is the jewel in the crown of Capri exclusivity and has held that unrivalled position for decades for its opulence, attention to detail, as well as the sheer scale. Pools, gardens, restaurants, lounges, and private rooms are all serenely beautiful. There’s also a beauty and fitness centre.
Grand Hotel Santa Lucia

Though more modest, this hotel has the most character of the three “grands” along the bay. It shares the same views and was renovated a few years ago. All the comforts you may require.
Grand Hotel Vesuvio

A 1950s reincarnation of the original 1882 grandeur, which was obliterated during World War II. It is consequently lacking in some of the charm of its neighbours, but is still the preferred lodging of many visiting VIPs. Again, its position is an enviable one, and the views from the upper floors are terrific.
GRAZIA VOZZA

Creative jeweler Grazia Vozza and her twin sister, Marica, do amazing things with gold, semiprecious stones, amber, and freshwater pearls; new lines include some Capri sandals with gemstone straps.
Greek Colonization

From the 8th to the 5th centuries BC this area became an important part of Magna Graecia when Greek city-states set up trading posts here (see Paestum). In 470 BC Neapolis (New City) was founded, which became modern Naples.
Green Grotto, Capri

Located on the other side of the island from its far more famous sibling, the Blue Grotto, this smaller cave glows emerald green once you duck inside. The best way to get here is to rent a kayak at Punta Carena and then make your way past Marina Piccola towards the Faraglioni rocks.
Growth of the City

With the advent of the Angevins (1266–1442) and the Aragons (1442–1503), Naples was now a modern capital and a powerful employment magnet. This led to severe overcrowding – a chronic Neapolitan problem to this day.
Handmade Paper & Cards

Amalfi was once home to a thriving paper industry (see Museo della Carta, Amalfi) and the tradition carries on here in a limited way. Neapolitan playing cards and tarocchi (tarot) cards are sold in Naples.
Handmade Sandals, Capri

There are a number of cobblers on the island (see Sandalmakers, Capri) who will make made-to-measure sandals within a matter of hours.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €100
- €100–150
- €150–200
- €200–300
- over €300