A Family December Trip to Naples and the Amalfi Coast
Day 1: Exploring Naples
Arriving in Naples at 2 pm, we quickly checked into our hotel and began our Neapolitan adventure. Our first stop was pizza at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele for a late lunch. Afterward, we visited the Cathedral to learn about the miracle of Saint Januarius' blood. Next, we explored the Chiesa di Santa Maria Donnaregina Vecchia and the serene Santa Chiara Cloister, a peaceful oasis in the chaotic city.
A stroll down Spaccanapoli Street took us to the Sansevero Chapel with its breathtaking sculpture. Make sure you reserve tickets in advance.
One of the highlights for the kids was Via San Gregorio Armeno, Christmas Road, where it’s Christmas all year round. They loved seeing the handcrafted nativity scenes and festive decorations.
At 6 pm, we embarked on a guided tour of Napoli Sotterranea, the fascinating Naples Underground. The kids were captivated by the ancient tunnels and stories of the city's past.
The day ended with dinner at Mimi alla Ferrovia, where we ate traditional Neapolitan cuisine.
Day 2: Naple's Cultural Delights
Starting the day with a good breakfast at our hotel we headed to the Naples National Archaeological Museum. We were amazed by the ancient artifacts and Pompeii exhibit. The kids spent their time running and sliding around the halls.
A coffee stop at the Gran Café Gambrinus in Piazza del Plebiscito gave us a chance to relax before exploring Galerie Umberto and Via Toledo. If you love jewelry, you will appreciate Leonardo Gaito on Via Toledo, a family-run shop with a rich history and beautiful selection.
We wandered through the Spanish Quarter, enjoying a spritz at a local bar before dinner at Trattoria Da Nennella.
After a quick visit to the impressive Metro Toledo station, we returned to our hotel to rest.
I love this city.
🇮🇹 List of other restaurants and things to do:
- Fried pizza from Pizza Fritta da Zia Esterina Sorbillo
- Strolling around Via Caracciolo and visiting the Castel dell'Ovo
- Spending the night on the Islands of Ischia or Capri
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Try delicious fried eggplant at Di Matteo - Stop by for pastries from **Pasticceria Poppella** in the Sanità neighborhood
Day 3: A Day on the Island of Procida
We took a day trip to the charming island of Procida, strolling around the picturesque Marina and town. My husband and I had visited Capri the first time we visited Naples and really loved it, but I had read so many good things about Procida that I had to visit it this time. It was completely worth it.
Day 4: Visiting Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii
Our morning was spent walking up and around Mount Vesuvius. We got there right when it opened and had the climb up and around the crater all to ourselves. We were there in the winter and we didn't have any trouble finding parking. There is a shuttle that takes you to the entrance from the parking.
Afterwards, we spent the rest of the day exploring the ancient ruins of Pompeii. The kids loved imagining life in the Roman city and seeing the preserved artifacts. We had visited Herculanum our first time in Italy and think it's great to visit if you don't have alot of time, but Pompeii is just incredible.
In the afternoon, we headed to Vietri sul Mare, checking into our hotel, Hotel Bristol. We visited the Ceramica Artistica Solimene Vincenzo shop, admiring the beautiful ceramics, then had a Spritz on the main square and tried the local specialty of anchovy pasta.
Day 5: Paestum and Amalfi
After breakfast, we visited the ancient Greek ruins at Paestum, followed by a tour of Barlotti Caseficio, where we learned about mozzarella production.
Lunch in Cetara at Al Convento was a seafood feast. We spent the afternoon and night in Amalfi, exploring the Paper Museum and soaking in the town’s charm. Our accommodation at the Hotel Résidence in Amalfi provided a perfect base.
Day 6: Exploring Amalfi and Ravello
Starting with breakfast at Pasticceria da Pansa in Amalfi's main square, we chose to hike the Valle delle Ferriere. The kids enjoyed the scenic trail and the natural beauty of the reserve.
In the afternoon, we took a wine tour near Vietri, followed by a visit to Ravello, where the views were breathtaking.
Day 7: Coastal Beauty
We visited the stunning Emerald Grotto in Conca dei Marini and the Fiordi di Furore with its street art. Lunch at Chez Black in Positano was a treat with incredible coastal views.
We returned to Naples as we had an early morning flight.
A pizza-making class at Palazzo Petrucci Pizzeria was a highlight, and the kids had a blast making their own pizzas. The day ended with a magical performance of Swan Lake at the Teatro San Carlo.
Day 8: Departure
Our adventure concluded with an early morning flight at 7:00 am from Naples. Our trip to Naples and the Amalfi Coast was filled with history, culture, and unforgettable experiences, making it a perfect family holiday.
Naples and the Amalfi Coast, with their rich history and stunning landscapes, offered us a magical Christmas adventure that we'll cherish forever.