traveldk.com

The first course may be marinated fish or seafood, a selection of olives and cured meats, bruschetta (toasted bread) with a variety of toppings or prosciutto (ham) with figs or melon, depending on the season. The meal could stop here and you won’t have missed out on the pleasures of the Italian table.

The area remains one of the great sources for antiques; especially plentiful are Baroque and Rococo furniture, as well as Empire pieces. Antique ceramics, too, are a good buy, notably handpainted tiles.

The Romans tapped the geothermal properties of this extinct volcanic crater to build spas.

Everything in the way of household items.

One of the chief marvels here is the Piscina Mirabile , a cistern used to collect water for the ancient port of Misenum.

All major brands are available, but a local Italian favourite is Peroni. If you want draft, ask for alla spina .

This town’s pride and joy is the well-preserved Arch of Trajan, chronicling the Roman emperor’s civic works.

Ceramics – both copies of traditional designs and original creations – are notable in Capri, Ravello and Vietri.

Neapolitan-style coffee traditionally comes already sweetened, and it is generally very concentrated.

The fertility of the land around Naples is never more evident that when you taste the produce it brings forth. For contorni (side dishes), peppers, artichokes, aubergine (eggplant), capers, mushrooms and green beans are offered steamed or sautéed. Expect the freshness of each vegetable to have been fully retained, cooked with just a touch of garlic, tomato or lemon, and some herbs.