Naples Holidays

Holidays to the Naples region bring together dramatic coastal scenery, world-famous archaeology and some of Italy’s most distinctive food. Set around the Bay of Naples in Campania, the area is ideal if you want more than a simple beach break: you can explore historic streets, take ferries to islands, visit Roman ruins and enjoy long meals overlooking the water.

Naples itself is the natural starting point. Its historic centre is a UNESCO-listed maze of narrow lanes, churches, courtyards and lively markets, with pizzerias serving the classic Neapolitan pizza that originated here. Along the seafront, the views stretch across the bay towards Mount Vesuvius, giving the city a setting few places can match.

For many visitors, Pompeii and Herculaneum are essential highlights. Both sites offer an extraordinary look at Roman life before the eruption of Vesuvius, and they are easy to reach from Naples and the surrounding resorts. You can also visit Mount Vesuvius itself, with walks to the crater rim and sweeping views across the coastline on clear days.

The wider Naples area has a strong holiday feel, particularly around Sorrento, which is known for its clifftop views, lemon groves, restaurants and good transport links. It is a practical base for ferries, local trains and excursions, with a polished resort atmosphere rather than large sandy beaches. Coastal bathing spots are often small, pebbly or set below cliffs, so sea views and boat trips are a bigger part of the appeal than traditional beach days.

The islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida add another dimension. Capri is famous for its glamorous harbour, coastal walks and boat trips, while Ischia is larger and known for thermal waters, gardens and relaxed seaside towns. Procida is smaller and colourful, with a quieter, more local character.

Food is a major reason to visit the Naples region. Expect pizza, seafood, pasta with local ingredients, buffalo mozzarella from Campania, limoncello around Sorrento, and pastries such as sfogliatella. Whether you stay in Naples, Sorrento or one of the islands, this is a region where culture, coast and cuisine are closely tied together.