La Bella Vita Napoli Guide
Explore the best food, drink, and experiences in Napoli!
What to do along the Lungomare and in Chiaia
Napoli's Lungomare is the seafront stretching between Marinari and Mergellina, starting south of Piazza Plebiscito and Palazzo Reale. It was constructed in 1869 and is an easy walk from the port. The most prominent historical landmark is the Castel dell'Ovo, or the Egg Castle, which gives way to an expansive walkway next to the water. This promenade is the location for major events in Napoli, such as when Napoli SSC won the Italian Serie A; the celebration parade wound along the Lungomare to celebrate. Just to the north of the Lungomare is Chiaia, an upscale neighborhood full of restaurants, bars, and high-end shopping. If you're looking for a less-crowded neighborhood or that designer item, this is the neighborhood for you.
Located along the water, the Castel dell'Ovo was named for a magical egg that the poet Virgil hid among the fortifications. As long as the egg stayed unbroken, the castle would stand. This location is also where the Greeks founded Parthenope, one of the early Greek colonies founded around the 8th century B.C. The castle underwent many modifications and changes as Napoli changed rulers over its history, and now it stands as a testament to those influences. Today the castle hosts tourists, allowing visitors to explore Napoli's complex history.
The Lungomare
Napoli's seaside promenade is known as the Lungomare Caracciolo, starting at the Castel dell'Ovo and stretching southwest along the bay for almost 4 km. A significant portion of the area is car-free, and it is a popular place for a walk in the sun by the water. The large park along the Lungomare hosts the Aquarium of Naples along with more walking paths with a little more shade for the hot summer days. Closer to the Castel dell'Ovo are multiple restaurants, some along the water like Al Barcadero Cafe, but many more in the buildings lining the street. This is a great place for a longer meal away from the hustle of the Centro Storico.
North of the Aquarium of Naples is the neighborhood of Chiaia, one of the more upscale neighborhoods of Napoli. There are plenty of high-end shops and restaurants, but there are a few hidden cultural gems in the neighborhood as well. One of these is the Museo Pignatelli, a villa built in the mid-800s. While smaller than most of the other museums in Napoli, this villa is an excellent example of neoclassical architecture. The museo also hosts a carriage museum, restored in 2014, showcasing 34 Italian, English, and French carriages from the 19th and 20th centuries. This museum is free to the public the first Sunday of every month.
Eating and Drinking in Chiaia
Chiaia, like all neighborhoods in Napoli, mostly contains traditional Neapolitan trattorias and pizzerias, but also some more variety than other areas. Near the aquarium are La Riviera Di Parthenope, Oceano Restaurant, and Trattoria Tammarie. Farther away from the water you can find neighborhood favorites like Pizzeria Staiano dal 1964 or Trattoria dell'Oca along with rooftop bars and cocktail clubs. Whatever you're looking for, you can probably find it in Chiaia.