Naples is a well-planned city, thanks largely to the work of the ancient Greek and Roman city planners who laid the early foundations. The city is laid out in 31 compact neighbourhoods and layers of historic infrastructure. Alleys are teeming with life, historic relics and beautiful buildings and monuments representing thousands of years.
Some of the city's finest hotels line the waterfront and enjoy views of Mount Vesuvius. The Grande Hotel Vesuvio is on the forefront of this market, offering deluxe suites that spare no expense. Nearly as expensive and offset slightly from the bay is the Grand Hotel Parker's, another fine choice in the city centre. Visitors looking for a more secluded spot may consider the luxurious Capri Palace Hotel and Spa on the island of Capri.
One of the districts that receives the most attention is in the Palazzo Reale area, namely the Posillipo, San Ferdinando and Chiaia neighbourhoods. Tourists based here can enjoy a range of accommodation and dining options which offer views of prominent castles and churches. This part of the city accesses several markets and shopping centres including Galleria Umberto I.
Another prominent area is laid out around the neighbourhoods of Porto, San Giuseppe and Pendino. This area was flourishing even in the days of the Greek Empire, and a historic air clings to the maze of alleyways. Hellenistic statues, opulent fountains and centuries-old trees dot the main thoroughfares. Visitors lodging in these neighbourhoods can walk to Europe's oldest aquarium and enjoy museums that were founded hundreds of years ago.
The neighbourhoods of Vomero and Arenella were founded much later in history, serving as posh residential districts in the days of Napoleon. The monuments and museums in this area are largely dedicated to Napoleon though the most visited site here is San Gennaro's Catacomb. Hotels here sit at higher elevation and boast sweeping views of the bay.
Surrounding the Duomo, visitors will find a concentration of historic buildings, some of which were commissioned by Constantine himself. A walking tour of this area reveals the Archaeological Museum, Academy of Fine Arts, remnants of ancient Greek fortifications and a prominent Roman marketplace. Quaint cottages and inns are tucked into the alleyways here.
Budget tourists will find less expensive lodging on the periphery of town. Bagnoli and Fuorigrotta are good neighbourhoods to investigate though these are mostly residential. A few bed-and-breakfasts and mid-priced hotels are situated here along commuter rail lines that offer efficient service to the city centre.
Business travellers may want to stay near the airport for a convenient departure. There are no explicit airport hotels, though it's easy to find something close to the terminal. Agnano is the closest neighbourhood with a spread of options. Bear in mind that the airport is only a few miles from the city centre, where the sights and amenities are worth the few extra minutes it takes to get there.
