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.

L’Arco Antico, Amalfi

L’Artico Antico helps keep Amalfi’s tradition of handmade paper products alive.
L’Arte del Pulcinella

This little shop is crammed full of Pulcinella figures (see Pulcinella) in all shapes and sizes, from the sweetly innocent to the bawdy. All in keeping with the character’s outlandish personality.
l’Immacolata

Celebrating the Immaculate Conception, this festival opens the Christmas season; nativity scenes go up and the Guglia dell’Immacolata (see Spaccanapoli to Capodimonte) becomes the focal point of pious activity.
Madonna di Piedigrotta

Once a highly elaborate affair, today the event involves a song competition and theatrical events, as well as fireworks and street parties. It all centres on a 14th-century sculpture of the Madonna and Child.
Maffei

Stylish jewellery at affordable prices. Silver and gold are featured, with an emphasis on modern pieces compatible with today’s taste. Some original lines by local artisans are available.
Maggio dei Monumenti

Churches and buildings usually closed to the public open their doors for one week.
Maison d’Art

One of the best antiques shops in the city, it’s rather like browsing through a museum. Real treasures are on display, including 19th-century gouaches of Neapolitan panoramas, 17th-century ceramics and 16th-century bronze candlesticks. Prices are high.
Majestic

Simple, modern elegance and comfort are the keynotes here. The location is serene, only a short stroll from the Villa Comunale gardens and the waterfront. The area is also known for its fine restaurants.
Marechiaro

This little fishing village between the tip of Capo di Posillipo and Punta del Cavallo is famous with locals for its time-tested romantic atmosphere. The vista from here is said to be so gorgeous that even the fish come here to woo their sweethearts, especially by the light of the moon. There are a number of excellent and inviting restaurants clustered around the prime viewing spot, all specializing in fish, of course.
Marechiaro

Long considered one of the most romantic spots on this evocative coastline, this little fishing village remains a popular destination, with ancient ruins and restaurants with great views. The panoramic vista of Vesuvius from here has been repeatedly celebrated, most nostalgically in that quintessential Neapolitan song “O Sole Mio”.

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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