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.

Palatium

Standing above the port and painted a distinctive Pompeian red, this luxury hotel makes a conscious effort to recall the island’s ancient heritage – in fact, this spot is where the Emperor Tiberius had one of his villas. There is a small beach for the use of guests as well as a sea-water pool. Includes breakfast.
Palazzo dello Spagnolo

Dating from 1728, this palace offers a fine example of a well-known Neapolitan architectural element, the so-called staircase “ad ali di falco” (with falcon wings). Separating two courtyards, the external stairway consists of double flights of steps with tiers of archways, a theatrical feature that became the trademark of its designer, Ferdinando Sanfelice. The palace was owned by a Spanish nobleman, hence the nickname.
Palazzo Donn’Anna, Posillipo

The air of mystery that envelops this 17th-century palace has given rise to various rumours. One claims that Queen Joan II used it for illicit trysts, after which she had her lovers tossed into the sea.
Palazzo Reale

With its commanding position near the bay, the Royal Palace dominates the grandest part of the city.
Palazzo Reale

The Royal Palace is largely 18th-century in character, with its vast layout, imposing façade and important rooms such as the ballroom and the chapel. However, later embellishments took a Neo-Classical turn, in particular the marvellous grand staircase. Under Napoleonic rule many of the rooms received a thorough makeover, which dominates the decor today. Don’t miss the fine Renaissance and Baroque paintings from the royal collection, including works by Guercino, Spadarino and several Flemish masters (see Palazzo Reale, Naples).
Palazzo Sasso, Ravello

Opened in 1997 in a 13th-century palace, the decor is a ravishing blend of Moorish and European elements. Incredible views and a fabulous restaurant.
Paradiso

A Best Western chain hotel but Mediterranean in feel. Perched on Posillipo Hill, it’s far from the city chaos and boasts a terrace restaurant with a stunning view of Vesuvius.
Parco Archeologico e Monumentale di Baia

Arranged in terraces, this excavated area includes an ancient spa and a Temple of Diana. The spa complex comprises baths named after Venus and Mercury, the latter a large swimming pool once covered with a dome.
Parco Termale Aphrodite Apollon, Ischia

Pools, saunas and massage.
Parco Virgiliano

Occupying the summit of a large hill overlooking the sea, this park offers spectacular views on all sides. To the left, the Bay of Naples, Vesuvius and the Sorrentine Peninsula; to the right, the Bay of Pozzuoli and the Phlegrean Fields. Down below lies the little island of Nisida, formed from an ancient volcanic crater. The tomb of the epic poet Virgil is said to be here in the ruins of a columbarium (sepulchre) used by ancient Romans to house the ashes of the dead.

Jump to top

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