traveldk.com

Lucia Migliaccio, Duchess of Floridia, once called this sumptuous place home – a love token from her husband, Ferdinand I, whose morganatic wife she became soon after the death of his first wife, Maria Carolina of Austria. Not only is the story romantic but the situation itself affords some of the finest views of the city and the bay. The gardens are good for hours of peaceful strolling, and the main building is now a museum filled with delightful treasures.

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.

For special events of any kind, you can’t do better than this. The food is excellent, focusing on a rich assortment of seafood antipasti notable for its delicate finesse, while the views are sublime, taking in the sweep of the entire bay. Be sure to commandeer a terrace table; the striped canopies and delightful multicoloured tile floor create an irresistibly charming impression.

The cuisine here is simple, homemade fare that includes seafood, fish, pasta, chicken and perhaps rabbit, while the wine is local and very creditable. What makes it so romantic is the unsurpassed setting. Not only is it close to nature, being situated almost all the way down to the Arco Naturale, but the terrace tables also enjoy an eye-popping view straight down to the sea, along a precipitous ravine. In addition, the friendly owners do their best to make any meal a memorable event.

So beautiful is the radiant aquamarine that glows upwards from inside this cave that it is truly indescribable. As you are ferried through the tiny entrance by a boatman you will find complete serenity.

Set amid sub-tropical gardens, this resort consists of a main house and bungalows. Each accommodation is unique and there’s also a wonderful grand piano-shaped swimming pool (see Villa Eva).

Recently upgraded to luxury class, the big pull at this hotel remains its terrace, touted as the most beautiful panorama in the world. In one sweep it takes in the entire bay.

Such a beautiful view from the vine-covered garden deserves superb food, and that is just what you find here. The restaurant, part of the Hotel Villa Maria (see Villa Maria, Ravello), is one of Ravello’s best. A signature dish is prawns and smoked cheese grilled on skewers; for a sweet finish, try the incredible lemon mousse.

Greta Garbo enjoyed her love affair with the conductor Arturo Toscanini in this beautiful spot, declared by resident American writer Gore Vidal to be one of the most beautiful places on earth. Wander the many maze-like plantings and terraced levels filled with hidden treasures and beautiful statues (see Villa Cimbrone).

Most evocative at dawn or sunset, when it is possible to imagine what the ancient city might have been like, these Greek temples and their verdant setting are a reminder of all that is loveliest in life. Spend the day here to explore these remains of one of history’s most evolved cultures.