Napoli—a soul-stirring city steeped in unexpected opulence, rich art, a thriving culinary scene, and a breathtaking coastline all beckoning you to its cobblestone streets on your next Euro getaway. To ensure you plan the most bucket list-worthy vacay, we’ve teamed up with the crew at Lavazza (who just dropped a decadent Tales of Napoli blend) to let you know where to eat, play and stay in Napoli. 

Eat

Sorbillo
There’s pizza, and then there’s Napoli pizza. When you’re visiting the birthplace of the margherita, you can’t really go wrong but if you want the best of the best, head to Sorbillo. You’ll find this eatery hidden down a maze of narrow streets with a line of people out the front. Don’t let that put you off though, pop your name down, enjoy a drink from a nearby bar and wait your turn to sample the best margherita of your life—we mean it.

Taverna dell’ Arte
This tiny eatery covered in vines might look unassuming but inside you’ll be treated to a soul-nourishing meal from owner Marcellino Amato. Think hand-rolled orecchiette with confit tomato, chillies and mussels; lemon risotto and melt-in-your-mouth seafood cooked in garlic and olive oil. Whatever you order at Taverna dell’ Arte, you won’t regret it. 

Il Transatlantico
If you like your meal with a side of incredible views, book yourself a table at sunset at Il Transatlantico. Found at the base of Castel dell’Ovo—the oldest castle in Naples—here, you can listen to the water lap against the marina while tucking into fresh seafood platters, oysters and spaghetti with sea urchin. 

Cibi Cotti
For a meal that feels like a warm hug—and is kind on the bank balance—head to Cibi Cotti at lunchtime. Tucked away in the Mergellina covered market, the menu here changes daily but is always delicious. Case in point? The line of local workers that are lining up to get their fix. On any given day you could be devouring pasta e fagioli (Italian pasta soup with beans), pillowy soft gnocchi in a tomato sauce, mushroom risotto or pork ribs slow-cooked in ragu. 

L'antiquario
Ranked 46 on the list of best bars in the world, a visit to L'antiquario is non-negotiable when holidaying in Napoli. Hidden behind a wooden door (you’ll need to ring the doorbell to enter), the bar evokes speakeasy vibes via its velvet and wood interior. The smartly dressed bartenders are master mixologists slinging incredible cocktails from their carefully curated list. 

Versa in Drogheria
Nestled in the Chiaia district among historic buildings and just steps back from the seafront, this wine bar oozes old-world charm. Sip your way through its extensive wine list, opt for a spritz or sample its home-brewed craft beers. Make sure you order a charcuterie board brimming with local produce to go with it with your sips. Heaven.

Cammarota Spritz 
Make like the locals and finish your day with a refreshing spritz at this tiny, hole-in-the-wall bar in the Quartieri Spagnoli. Out the front, you’ll find a few orange-hued tables where you can sink a spritz for just one euro! Given the price point a young crowd tends to frequent this spot, so the energy is always high. 

Play 

Step Back In Time
A visit to Napoli is not complete without seeing Pompeii IRL. The perfectly preserved streets reveal the town’s once thriving heart before it was decimated in 79 A.D. Nearby Herculaneum is also worth a visit. This town was also completely engulfed by lava and gives an insight into everyday Roman life. You’ll also be able to escape the crowds here a little better than Pompeii. 

Island Hop
The Bay of Naples is home to a glittering azure sea, dotted with colourful islands that are perfect for a day trip. There’s Capri—the most well-known of the islands—brimming with restaurants, boutiques and endless alleyways to explore. Ischia is the largest island and is perfect for those seeking a green oasis. Think: botanical gardens, hidden coves and thermal spas. Procida is the smallest in size but is postcard perfect with rainbow-hued homes and cobblestone streets that are perfect for wandering on a balmy summer’s day. 

Embrace Napoli Opulence
Lose yourself in the grandeur of Napoli’s history with a stroll around the Royal Palace of Naples. The lavish building was designed in the 16th Century and pays homage to its Spanish history with rich tapestries, paintings and sculptures. Pro tip: don’t miss the Teratrino di Corte, a jaw-dropping private theatre in the palace. 

With painted ceilings and opulent gold interiors, the San Carlo Theatre is like nothing you’ve seen before. The oldest theatre in Europe is known for playing host to world-class ballets, concerts and operas. Finally, be sure to check out Chiostri di Santa Chiara. Located in the city centre, the ornate columns in hues of orange, green and purple, represent classic 18th Century Napoli scenes. 

Get Your Chef On
So you’ve already eaten your way around the city and tasted the best pizza of your life—why not try your hand at recreating it so you can bring a slice of the good stuff home with you? Better than any souvenir you could buy, experiencing how to cook an Italian classic from locals is a true bucket list-worthy moment. Eat, Walk, Italy offers classes on how to make the perfect margherita as well as how to make your own gnocchi—even better, it comes with a glass of wine. 

Stay

Boujee

Romeo Hotel
A haven in the city, treat yourself to a luxurious stay at the Romeo Hotel. Soothe your senses—and your travel-wearing muscles—at the spa, or laze poolside with panoramic views across the Bay of Naples. Indulge in fine dining at Il Comandante, and enjoy an aperitif at La Vinoteca (the hotel bar), before unwinding in your lavish suite designed by the great Kenzo Tange. 

Mid-range

Unahotels Napoli

Just a five-minute meander from Circumvesuviana Station, you’ll find the centrally located Unahotels Napoli. Wake up in a restored 19th-Century palazzo, enjoy breakfast or a cocktail on the rooftop terrace and soak up the city views from your private balcony. 

Budget

A secret garden hidden in the historic centre of Napoli, this cheerful and relaxing hostel is the perfect budget-friendly retreat for wanderlust seekers. The rooms (mixed dorms and private suites are available) are bright, airy and furnished with all the mod cons, while the garden is sprawling and often plays host to live music sessions and yoga classes. 

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Lavazza and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.

Images: supplied.