Day 1
Arrival in Naples in the morning and check-in at the hotel. We meet our guide at the hotel and take the metro toward Piazza Municipio. Along the way, we pass through some of Naples’ famous Art Stations—true gems of contemporary architecture and urban creativity that make the city’s metro system a unique experience. Once in the city center, we begin our visit to Naples’ monumental heart. From Piazza Municipio, the historic political center, we delve into the city’s elegant soul. We admire the imposing Maschio Angioino from the outside, stroll through the beautiful Galleria Umberto I with its iron-and-glass vaults, and are amazed by the grandeur of Piazza del Plebiscito—an open, harmonious space framed by historic buildings. We then enter the Royal Palace, exploring its opulent halls, frescoes, and stories that reveal the splendor of Bourbon Naples. It’s a journey through time, among thrones, courts, and royal intrigues. We continue with a pleasant walk to the Santa Lucia district, one of the city’s most authentic and picturesque corners, rich in sea air and romantic views. We reach the base of Mount Echia, the ancient headland where the first Greek settlement of Neapolis was founded—later known in Roman times for its scenic villas and legends about local heroes. A comfortable panoramic elevator takes us to the top. Up there, a special moment awaits: a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Naples, with Mount Vesuvius in the background, the islands on the horizon, and the city at our feet. A postcard-perfect image that captures the true soul of Naples and will stay with us forever. Return to the hotel by metro, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 2
After breakfast at the hotel, we begin a day dedicated to Neapolitan Baroque and the restless genius of Caravaggio. We travel again by metro, which continues to surprise us with more Art Stations—visionary architecture, installations, and lighting effects that reflect a modern, creative Naples constantly in dialogue with its past. We arrive in the historic center and immerse ourselves in 17th-century Naples, the city that welcomed Caravaggio during one of the most dramatic periods of his life. Walking through lively alleys full of market sounds, scents, and colors, we begin to sense the intense, theatrical atmosphere that inspired his masterpieces. We visit the Pio Monte della Misericordia, a historic charitable institution still active today, home to one of Caravaggio’s most powerful works: The Seven Works of Mercy. We admire it up close—the dramatic composition, sharp light, and raw expressions mark a turning point in his style and in art history. We continue to the Church of San Domenico Maggiore, a magnificent example of architectural layering started in 1227. The convent once hosted Saint Thomas Aquinas. It was here in 1607 that Caravaggio’s Flagellation of Christ was first displayed—now housed in the Capodimonte Museum, but still present here in a copy, symbolizing the deep bond between the artist and the city. During our walk, we’re also surprised by contemporary street art: the provocative Madonna with a Gun by Banksy, the imagined dialogue between Caravaggio and Saint Gennaro by Roxy in the Box, and the powerful mural of Saint Gennaro by Jorit, who cites Caravaggio’s human and raw style as his inspiration. Our Baroque route continues with a visit to the stunning Sansevero Chapel—mysterious and fascinating. We’re left breathless before the Veiled Christ, an absolute masterpiece of delicacy and realism: the sculpted veil revealing the body beneath seems to defy marble itself.
We reach Piazza del Gesù, one of the most symbolic and beautiful squares in the city, and visit the impressive Church of Gesù Nuovo with its distinctive diamond-point facade and richly decorated Baroque interior. A short walk takes us to the cloister of the Church of Santa Chiara, a peaceful, colorful oasis adorned with 18th-century majolica tiles depicting scenes of countryside life in a timeless atmosphere. Return to the hotel by metro, dinner, and overnight stay.
Day 3
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Ready to discover a different side of Naples, we take the metro to Vomero, one of the city’s most elegant neighborhoods. Nestled on a hill, it features Art Nouveau buildings, tree-lined avenues, and stylish boutiques. This is a more refined and peaceful Naples, offering stunning views and serene beauty. We visit the Certosa di San Martino, a former Carthusian monastery turned museum, from which you can enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples. Inside, we explore the church, cloisters, courtyards, and richly frescoed halls that tell stories of art, spirituality, and power through the centuries. We’re charmed by the Neapolitan nativity scenes—true works of art that blend sacred and profane themes with incredible craftsmanship—and from the terraces, we enjoy one last spectacular view of the gulf with Vesuvius on the horizon. After the visit, we have some free time for last-minute shopping in Vomero’s streets or perhaps a relaxing coffee before heading back to the hotel in time for the return journey.
