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Most accommodation options here welcome families. Italians love children and hotels often allow you to include any children up to a certain age – sometimes as high as the teens – at no extra charge, except perhaps a nominal fee for extra beds. The best budget option for families is a self-catering apartment.

Some restaurants in touristed areas have special kid’s meals. Many will also obligingly prepare special foods for infants. There are also fast-food restaurants in the city that cater to kid’s tastes, although it’s the rare child who will not be thrilled with a pizza.

There are shops galore that focus on what kids want, from toys to beach gear to gadgets. Such stuff is cheap enough – and cheaply made – so that you can simply leave it behind when it’s time to go. A good range of fashions for children, toddlers and infants can also be found – some of it expensive.

Central Naples can be a difficult place for children, due to the almost complete lack of parks and other facilities. For wholesome fun, head for the parks – the Villa Comunale or Villa Floridiana are handiest. The castles, too, generally delight little ones, and, of course, Science City and Edenlandia, outside the city, are excellent (see Children’s Attractions).

Few hotels offer this service, so families should plan on non-stop togetherness when contemplating a trip to Naples and the province.

Given the wealth of natural beauty here, much of it now protected in parks and reserves, there are excellent picnicking opportunities. There are also wonderful markets and shops for stocking up on all that you’ll need to put together a memorable repast, with settings and views to rival the best restaurants. Be sure to pick up any rubbish afterwards.

Getting your own apartment can be an excellent option for an extended stay, not only for the money you’ll save but also for the freedom you’ll enjoy in doing the region entirely your own way. Prices can range from basic to high. Another advantage is that you will most probably get to know some locals (see My Home Your Home, Naples).

The best camp sites are good bargains and are located to the west of the city, handy for the archaeological areas of the Campi Flegrei. Be aware that the sea is not at its most inviting along this stretch of coast, but you will find spas and, from the port of Pozzuoli, you can take boats to the islands (see Vulcano Solfatara Camping, Pozzuoli).

All museums in Naples have free days and ridotto (reduced) admissions at all times for persons in certain categories. Another money-saver is to get the Artecard for Naples’ cultural attractions from tourist offices. A cheaper way to get around the coast is by ferry rather than hydrofoil – half the price, but twice the time. (Ferries are also more fun, since you can go out on the deck, which you cannot do on hydrofoils.)

Low-season prices, from October to April (but not Christmas), can delight the budget-minded traveller. Note that on Capri and in many towns along the Amalfi Coast, however, some places close for the entire winter.