Campania

In Naples, the 19th of September is the Feast of San Gennaro. This very special day for Neapolitans is an explosion of popular devotion to the city’s patron saint and a fascinating synthesis of tradition and spirituality. The ampoule containing his blood is taken from the Reliquary and the miracle of liquefaction is repeated every year. Being in Naples on this occasion is a unique experience when you can take part in the full programme of celebrations and the genuine, boundless enthusiasm of the Neapolitan people.

Visiting Campania by paraglider or hang-glider is like nothing you could have imagined and yet harbours unforgettable emotions. In fact, for free-flying enthusiasts, who love to take to the skies and explore the Italian landscapes from above, exclusively aboard unpowered aircraft such as hang-gliders or paragliders, the varied territory of Campania is an air park that offers formidable panoramas, whether maritime or mountainous. Those who are new to the sport can find an opportunity here to indulge in a baptism of the air in a two-seater aircraft, driven by the expert hands of a professional pilot.

This jewel near Naples, in Campania, which lets you travel back in time, has long held the record as the most visited place in the world. The archaeological area of Pompeii, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata is among the 58 Italian UNESCO sites in the World Heritage List. It never ceases to amaze, giving you the opportunity to explore the extent of the commercial city of Pompeii, the fewer but better-preserved remains of the ancient town of Herculaneum and the frescoes of the Villa Oplontis in Torre Annunziata, which portray the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy classes at the beginning of the Roman Empire.

Sannio, a historical inland region of Campania, is famous for at least one white grape variety and its related wine, which is called Falanghina. But Sannio's alcoholic panorama also includes a liqueur called Strega, which is as interesting as the capital city, Benevento, in fact, a city capable of profound atmospheres, even if not immediately evident in all their ancient and varied civilisation. Perhaps for this very reason Benevento is still undervalued as a tourist destination, whereas it is worthwhile to go and discover its strong personality, its rich atmospheres, its best attractions, which deserve at the very least a long weekend's stay. Campania is not only made up of obvious wonders such as Naples, Vesuvius, Pompeii, Paestum, the Royal Palace of Caserta, Capri and Ischia. It is also worthwhile to become familiar with Trajan's Arch and the steps of Benevento's Roman Theatre, the vicissitudes of S. Maria's Cathedral, the octagonal plan of the Longobard S. Sofia, the stroll along Corso Garibaldi and the tables of Caffè Strega. Otherwise, you will never know what you are missing out on.

Such a goal is not, however, easy to achieve, all the more so on holiday when relaxation and leisure time are essential. However, there is nothing to prevent you from indulging in an ad hoc tour of the city you are visiting, perhaps before starting your day. This is an energy booster that you will appreciate as soon as you get over the shock of the alarm clock. With this in mind, and considering the delicacies the city has to offer once you are seated at the table, we have drawn up four itineraries for visiting the centre of Naples and bagging your daily 10000 steps by simply walking around some truly enchanting places. And after a long walk before breakfast, a warm sfogliatella riccia (a local pastry) is a must in Naples, don't you think?

Neapolitan crib art is famous throughout the world. In the city of Naples and the rest of Campania you will find countless examples of this art that has been handed down unchanged, decade after decade. From the street of nativity scenes in Naples to the precious 18th-century shepherds of the Cuciniello nativity scene and the amazing royal nativity scene at the Reggia di Caserta, prepare yourself for a feast of art and tradition. Here are the finest, unmissable nativity scenes in Naples and Campania.

.Immersed in scenery that is beautiful in all seasons, allow yourself to be transported to an experience with an emphasis on taste and health. The cuisine on offer is more than just zero km: in true agritourisms, more than 60 per cent of the produce must in fact be home-grown, or come from farms and agri-food companies in the same Territorial Development System. So here are 7 green agritourisms in Campania where you can partake in a simple, yet surprising, delicacy.

Whether it involves small artisanal wineries or famous companies that bring millions of bottles a year to the international market, the wine business in Campania is indeed very lively and full of pleasant surprises. They are all just waiting to be discovered.

Here, food reigns supreme on the table and beyond: it fills the streets, shops, cloisters and street stalls, offering unforgettable taste experiences. Living the Italian way of life also means immersing oneself in culinary traditions and letting oneself be captivated by the most authentic ones. We discover the secrets, recipe by recipe, of the best street food in Naples.

It is such a popular meal that even if just passing through Italy for a few hours, everyone wants (and should) try one: it’s a meal that makes for pure joy with every bite. Naples and pizza are closely linked: let's see why.

On the Sorrento Coast you’ll find agri-food produce of the highest quality, with a definitive style of cuisine that the locals are very proud of. Honour them by tasting a pizza alla sorrentina, which is different to a Neopolitan pizza, or some famous gnocchi alla Sorrentina, Sorrento IGP lemons, or any Sorrento walnut based treat. These are recognised by the Slow Food Presidia.

No doubt, pizza is one of the world’s preferred meals, but above all, it is one of Italy’s favorites of all its national dishes. Indeed, approximately one million pizzas are consumed in Italy everyday, and at least one of the innumerable pizzerias throughout the Bel Paese are an obligatory stop for the country's visitors.Tasting this delicious foodstuff whilst admiring a gorgeous panorama - whether on Capri’s Piazzetta or in the shadow of Mt. Vesuvius in Naples, whether in the sidestreets of Rome or in one of the ancient villages of the South - is priceless. And travelers to the Peninsula are no less likely to enjoy such experiences. Even just a slice – the sensation of crispy, wood-baked dough mixed with hot tomato and gooey cheese melting away with each bite – is an ecstasy of the senses. Pizza’s name is inextricably tied to the city of Naples, where pizza making eventually grew into an authentic artisan tradition, passed down from father to son and it is just one of the traditions that symbolizes Made in Italy all around the world. In 2017 UNESCO included "Art of Neapolitan Pizzaiuolo" in the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

For travelers in search of the opportunity to relax by the sea - yet still partake in an active cultural and social scene - a trip to the lovely islands of the Bay of Naples is definitely one for the bucket list: we’re talking about Procida, Ischia and Capri. A long weekend is ideal for enjoying the beauties on display on these three islands and for living both nature and the sea to their fullest.

Atrani: a charming, tiny village with an ancient heart Less than a kilometre from Amalfi, Atrani's geographical position makes it a strategic point for exploring the entire Amalfi Coast, of which it forms part. An ancient world in miniature, we are in the smallest Italian municipality by surface area, rich in history that attests to the passage of many peoples. The only town on the Costiera to retain the fascinating atmosphere of a fishing village in the south of Italy, Atrani is distinguished by its handful of small houses that cluster on the hillside from the beach. An inspiring place, then and now The village of Atrani is of Roman origin, at which time it was called Atranum. Afterwards, everyone passed through here: Etruscans, Greeks, Normans, Swabians, French and Spanish, attracted by its position as a vantage point over the sea, along the valley of the river Dragone with the high, impregnable mountains behind it. The landscape has always been the same, and the view is one of the most evocative on the Coast. Take a leisurely stroll through narrow alleyways, courtyards and walkways protected by arches, along the ups and downs of steps that all converge on the sea. This is enough to explore the places most steeped in history. Leave your car behind, and if you feel like a scenic walk, you could walk straight from Amalfi. There is peace in this natural hollow of the Amalfi Coast, protected from noise and traffic. A coffee in the piazzetta Head towards Piazza Umberto I, better known as the piazzetta, and sit down for an espresso coffee in this welcoming spot, looking out towards the sea since it was created as a mooring for boats on stormy days. Visit the Church of San Salvatore de' Bireto overlooking the square: it was first built in the year 1000, although today it is in pure Neoclassical style. It was here that the investiture of the Doges of the Maritime Republic of Amalfi took place. Marvel at the number of small churches in the village, peek inside to admire their paintings and statues. Make sure not to miss the Church of the Carmine and the Church of S. Michele Fuori le Mura, among others. At the trattoria Even the eating establishments here in Atrani exude the scent of history, and a gastronomic stop provides an authentic taste experience in an inspiring setting. Take a seat at a table in the open air, under umbrellas or in the discreet glow of the lighting in the evening. Some taverns set up tables under arches used for sheltering fishermen and storing nets. If you are in the area in July, head to Atrani on the 22nd. On this date, celebrations are held in honour of Santa Maria Maddalena and the typical celebratory dish is the Sarchiapone: cannelloni made from cylinders of long pumpkins, stuffed with minced meat, fried and bathed in tomato sauce. Atrani also has a long tradition in the production of fresh pasta. Come and enjoy it here, flavoured with the bounties of the sea. And at all hours, including the end of the meal, try the pasticciotto. The people of Campania claim that the best is that of Atrani: a crumbly pastry, which in the local version contains a filling of custard and sour cherries. A dip in the bay The sheer cliffs surround a small beach of sand mixed with fine gravel, partly free and partly with bathing facilities, divided in half by the Dragone river. The sea is clear and calm, somewhere between green and blue. Take a swim and look up for a glimpse of the village with its small colourful houses and churches; beyond, you can see the verdant, towering mountain. And head back there in the evening to watch the fishermen set off to fish for lampreys.

Ischia, the largest of the Phlegrean Islands, has – as long as man can remember – been considered the European capital of wellbeing. Its springs and ancient natural baths offer intense pleasure and relaxation, in any season, to those looking to combine the best of wellness and spa treatments, enogastronomy, idyllic scenery and even sport activity, all within the setting of uncontaminated and pristine nature. Its geographic location ensures that the entire Island is blessed with the climatic and environmental conditions ideal for restoring the mind, body and spirit. The thermal baths on Ischia are the stuff of legend (literally), which narrates that the giant Tifeo (Typhon) was imprisoned by Zeus inside Mount Epomeo. After centuries of punishment the giant implored Venus to request his pardon from Zeus when hot tears ran from the repenting rebel’s eyes, the Father of the Gods was moved by pity. He thus pardoned Tifeo and transmuted his tears into natural thermal waters.

Cetara: experience the evocative atmosphere of a seafront village The spectacle of the Marina with the lampara boats leaving in the late evening, a quiet beach bordered by the old defence tower, pastel-coloured houses and churches clinging to the hillside. On the Amalfi Coast, Cetara preserves intact the most authentic dimension of a fishing village. The perfect destination for beach lovers, who will also find it on their palate: the local speciality is in fact the Colatura di Alici (translated as Anchovy Syrup) the result of a long tradition. Beaches in a row right in the village The Spiaggia della Marina beach is right here in the village, protected by the Vicereale Tower, an Angevin bastion of defence. It has a sandy and a pebbly part and is surrounded by small pink and yellow houses, as well as small café and restaurant for a pleasant stopover. Facing south-east, the beach is always sun-drenched, perfect for an off-season dive on mild autumn and spring days. At the pebble beach Spiaggia del Porto, special currents make the water crystal clear. Climb aboard a gozzo (local boat type) to visit the Spiaggia della Collata, with access only by sea, a small sheltered bay shrouded in the scents of Mediterranean vegetation; then continue, still by boat, to the tiny Spiaggia degli Innamorati, reserved to a few chosen ones. Still sailing, but this time towards the east coast, you can reach the Spiaggia della Campana (Bell Beach) with a view of two stacks. For those looking for comfort, on the Lannio Beach and the Old Tuoro Beach you can sit on soft sand. Corso Garibaldi: the central street of the village After a long day on the beach it is worth heading towards Corso Garibaldi, the central street of Cetara where the main historical monuments parade, including the Church of San Pietro Apostolo with its dome decorated with a polychromatic majolica covering. The promenade is all the more enchanting at sunset, when the sun dips into the water on the horizon: it is the right time for an aperitif in one of the many bars with outdoor tables from which to admire the spectacle of colours at dusk. Or simply rest on one of the terraces overlooking the sea, because even the dozens of benches are works of fine craftsmanship: they are made by master ceramists, with compositions depicting scenes of life and fishing. Corso Garibaldi is also the ideal place for shopping from boutiques to ceramics ateliers to gastronomic specialities. The famous Colatura di Alici di Cetara The sea is rich in fish in Cetara and the name of town itself derives from Cetaria, meaning 'tuna fishery'. Today, boats go out to the deep waters of the Mediterranean for bluefin tuna, while the tradition of fishing for anchovies is still flourishing. The procedure for a good Colatura di Alici has very ancient roots, traceable back to the time of the Romans who made a similar product called Garum. The Cistercian monks from Amalfi then enhanced the technique: the fish are salted and after curing, the liquid is filtered, a craft method that is still used today. Colatura di Alici has an intense flavour, which you can enjoy by ordering a spaghetti or linguine in the village restaurants. Divine in their simplicity, with no need for seasoning other than a sprinkling of parsley and a good extra virgin olive oil. Trekking among the lemon groves Cetara is a strategic hub for treks of various difficulties in the hills. A one-hour walk along a beautiful path through olive groves, vineyards and lemon orchards on terraces leads to Punta Fuenti. On the contrary, for the braver ones, it takes almost 7 hours to walk the paths from Abbazia di Cava to Iaconti: you will find yourself on a ridge of Mount Falerio before heading into lush forests. If you are looking for an excursion out of town, move to nearby Maiori: this is where the Via dei Limoni (Lemon Path) starts, the ancient road that in 9 kilometres connects Maiori to Minori, both delightful villages. Farmers used to pass through here and even today, during the harvesting period between spring and summer, you can see them at work and intent on transporting citrus fruits by mule. The cultivation of lemons on the Amalfi Coast is a true art.

Ischia - also known as the island of the sun god - is of volcanic origin with small towns set along the coastline and a Mediterranean climate. It’s engulfed by magnificent colours and wild fragrances as early as in March, when the beginning of the warmer weather is announced by the undergrowth covered with cyclamens and violets and the brilliant green trees of the Mediterranean scrub. There are many activities to participate in on this marvellous island, from hiking and cycling for sports and nature enthusiasts, to enjoying thermal treatments and touring the many attractions such as the charming peninsula of Sant’Angelo. There are also several places to visit and things to do here.

After landing at the port of Marina Grande, visitors can set off to discover experiences enjoyed between the ancient village of Terra Murata, the fishing village of Marina Corricella and the port of Chiaiolella on the island so dear to writers, artists and film-makers. Procida - the Italian Capital of Culture 2022 - holds the flag of Neapolitan hospitality high, offering days of good taste, discovery and well-being.

The best known, the bay of leranto with views of Capri where Ulysses was bewitched by the Sirens. Perhaps lesser known is the cove of Mitigliano, where you can enjoy the view of Punta Campanella, up to Sorrento. Offering two small beaches of volcanic sand, passing through Piano di Sorrento, always holding a Blue flag, and Scrajo beach in Vico Equense where you will find a pool of sulfurous water.

The Sorrento peninsula extends from Castellammare di Stabia to the promontory of Punta Campanella at the far extremity spectacularly overlooking the Gulf of Naples: between sea, nature walks, archaeological sites and astonishing locations, here are 6 masterpieces that reveal all its beauty.

Exploring Capri is easy on foot, walking along between the remains of the Roman emperor's villas, and the residences left by those who fell in love with the island between the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. It is not only for those looking for glamour: Capri offers an extraordinary history, a spectacular sea, an unrivaled panorama and refined hospitality.

At La Fontelina, the rocks of the high coastline form a series of small coves offering natural pools where diving into the sea is a marvellous experience. In particular, the historic village and the Mediterranean maquis dotted with lemon trees are very attractive features of the island.

A holiday in Positano, enjoying the enchantment of the Amalfi Coast Positano stands to the west of the fascinating natural terrace on the Tyrrhenian Sea that is the Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, the typical Mediterranean landscape of southern Italy reigns supreme, with white houses sloping down towards the sea and splendid beaches, alleys offering all the simple pleasures of life: the leisurely pace, refined boutiques, cafés and restaurants, and places that are custodians of history. Discovering the beaches The Marina Grande beach is Positano's most famous beach. It is 400 metres of sandy shore set in the inlet, where you may find yourself face to face with passing VIPs. The view and the facilities available encourage lounging, but once you have left your sunbed, it is worth heading to the pier to sail to the Li Galli Archipelago: three small islands in a marine reserve surrounded by crystal-clear waters, that legend has it are populated by mermaids. You can get there by dinghy or small boat. An intimate cove embraces Fornillo Beach, made of pebbles and gravel; it's reachable on foot and a snorkelling paradise because of its magnificent seabed. Continuing on foot, you can spend some quiet time on the Spiaggia di Laurito (Laurito Beach), where the cliffs are sheer, and nature is untouched. The jagged coastline of the Gulf of Positano is full of ravines on the turquoise sea. Climb aboard a gozzo, the traditional boats, and ask to be taken to discover little beaches in secret coves, including La Porta, San Pietro Laurito and Arienzo. Many hotels also offer stretches of private beaches. A divine trek A hike in the Monti Lattari, immersed in nature. The Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods), was for many years the only link between the towns on the Amalfi Coast, before the main road was built. As you walk along, the Coast opens up to you from above and the view sweeps as far as Capri on clear days. You pass through forests of holm oaks and quench your thirst at the numerous springs; you will find vertiginous caves and precipices, the remains of cave villages, and the limestone spire Il Pistillo.   You arrive at the village of Nocelle, where you can freshen up before resuming your trek. For the more experienced and adventurous, a branch of the Sentiero degli Dei leads via an almost endless flight of steps to Cala Arienzo, usually reached by sea with little effort. A holiday resort dear to the Romans Roman aristocrats came to Positano and built extraordinary holiday residences here. There is much evidence of their fondness for this place, blessed with an enchanting landscape and a mild climate all year round, with the sea breeze alleviating the summer heat. Find artefacts of the ancient holidaymakers at the Roman Archaeological Museum - MAR, which houses a part of a 1st century AD villa, buried by the eruption of Vesuvius and brought to the surface after years of archaeological excavations. Positano Style Positano is a vertical village, perched on a rock overlooking the sea. Wander through the village's many stairways and alleyways, and don't miss a visit to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, a stone's throw from Marina Grande Beach. Once a Benedictine monastery, later abandoned and renovated over the centuries, today it offers the architectural spectacle of a pale stone façade and a yellow, green and blue majolica dome. Inside, look out for the precious Byzantine icon. Majolica has a long tradition in Positano, and in the village ateliers you can shop for ceramic objects, from plates to trinkets. There are many boutiques selling elegant clothes if you want to follow the “Positano style”: soft, fluttering dresses, kaftans, light colours, shirts and trousers in linen and lightweight fabrics, and the ubiquitous swimwear for him and for her. Over the centuries, Positano has seen a flourishing tradition of weaving, now reinterpreted in a contemporary, holiday mood. The style is completed with flip-flop shoes, also customised by the craftsmen. After the sea, the delights of the village Positano is also luxury and high society, and the whole area offers plenty of clubs, restaurants and bars. For evening entertainment, you can choose whether to stay up high in the venues clinging to the rock, in favour of the view, or in the beach clubs, where an aperitif at sunset is also a pleasant experience. Take a seat on the terrace of a restaurant. Some good choices are mussel soup or a lemon-scented seafood salad, linguine with scampi and fried fish. Among the cheeses of the Monti Lattari, fior di latte, the same cheese that you will find on pizza, is the most popular. And if your gastronomic interests do not end there, find out how to join a themed tour: olive oil tours among the olive groves, and wine cellars amidst the vineyards.

The Gulf of Salerno and Punta Campanella points straight from the Sorrento Peninsula towards the island of Capri. A scenic wonder including a protected marine area. At Punta, in ancient times, a temple dedicated to the Goddess Minerva paid homage to the sacredness of the place. Today it is a natural paradise where you can enjoy wandering through winding pathways, discovering the scents and scenery of the Mediterranean shrubbery, and strolling alongside the blue waters as if on the deck of a ship.

Cathedrals, castles, bridges and triumphal arches: history dominates the Via Francigena in Campania along a route hallmarked by the precious testimony of an amazing past. Here are 5 must-see places on a journey back in time.

One of the most visited areas of Campania in the world, this stretch of coastline reaching from Positano to Vietri sul Mare along the Tyrrhenian coast of southern Italy. In front is the Gulf of Salerno, behind it the Monti Lattari. Its high cliffs, enchanting coves and small bays, terraces dotted with citrus fruits, vines and olive trees, and its high-fashion shops and artisan workshops make it one of the most popular destinations in the world. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as a perfect example of a Mediterranean landscape with a scenery of great cultural and natural value, it is composed not only of internationally famous locations such as Amalfi and Positano, but also of small villages with an ancient atmosphere.

The former is the palace, which used to be the largest in the world, with its opulent and beautiful royal flats, a riot of marble, frescoes, paintings and period furnishings; the latter features gardens that deserve a visit on their own, as the ultimate expression of care and elegance.

The capital of Campania lies in the bay of the same name next to the volcano Vesuvius and offers a spectacular view as far as the islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida. The historical centre has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site because of its monuments that best represent European and Mediterranean culture. The role of Naples as the cradle of Italian culture, including literature, theatre, music and cuisine, should also not be forgotten. The latter is, to all intents and purposes an art: one of the world's best-loved delicacies, pizza, was born here.

The street of the nativity scenes, one of the most beautiful in the center of Naples San Gregorio Armeno is not only the street of the nativity scenes, it is also the heart of Naples and its traditions, one of the most characteristic. It was once a Roman street where you could find the Temple of the Goddess Ceres, the fertility deity. The worshipers used to carry small terracotta statues in its honor and this is how the first craft shops were established. But the tradition of handmade nativity figurines only became popular around the eighteenth century. It is always Christmas in this street because of its shops, open all year round, that sell the statuettes of Nativity characters to be added to the nativity together with the figurines of politicians, actors and well-known personalities. In addition to the artisans’ work, you can visit the nearby Monastery of San Gregorio Armeno, with its beautiful cloister, with a marble fountain in the center featuring Baroque-style decorations and an ancient well. Inside you can see the coffered ceiling created by the painter Teodoro d'Errico and frescoes by Luca Giordano, such as “The Glory of San Gregorio”.

From royal seat to fortress, the castle relates the history of Naples Find out the true history of Naples by visiting Castel Nuovo, or the Maschio Angioino. An imposing castle built in 1266 by Charles I of Anjou was the royal seat and cultural center that hosted artists and writers such as Giotto, Petrarch and Boccaccio. Later, it became a military fortress under Aragonese rule, given its strategic location. You can visit the internal rooms such as the Hall of the Barons, the main hall in the Castle, frescoed by Giotto, with a splendid octagonal vault and the Hall of the Armory where archaeological remains from the Roman era have been found. The Palatine Chapel is all that remains of the ancient Angevin palace and houses some sculptures from the Neapolitan Renaissance. The Castle houses the Civic Museum with frescoes and paintings ranging from the fifteenth to the eighteenth century and works of art from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.