The liveliness of Naples with its picturesque districts and magnificent views across the bay and the wild beauty of the islands – from the largest, Ischia, and its scattered ancient settlements, to the charm of Capri and the magical Blue Grotto.
Friday
The Magic of Naples
Arrival at Naples and transfer to the hotel, then sightseeing bus tour of the city, from the hill of Posillipo overlooking the Bay of Naples, to the seafront and streets of Caracciolo, Partenope, Santa Lucia, ending in Piazza del Plebiscito. Walk around the main monuments of Naples, including Galleria Umberto I, the Royal Palace (possibly with a visit to the interior), San Carlo Theatre, then a stop to sample the delicious Neapolitan sfogliatelle (flaky pastry cakes) at Bar Gambrinus. Dinner at a restaurant, return to the hotel and overnight stay.
Saturday
Ancient Pithecusae and Modern Ischia
After breakfast, boat trip to Ischia and visit to the Archaeological Museum at Villa Arbusto, which tells the story of the island from pre-history to Roman times, and houses important remains of the settlement of Pithecusae, founded by the Greeks in 770 B.C.. Lunch at a local restaurant then visit to the Aragonese Castle, a Byzantine fortress transformed by the Aragon family in the 15th century and set in the ancient sea-town of Ischia Ponte. Return to Naples, dinner at the hotel and overnight stay.
Sunday
Nature and History on Capri
After breakfast, departure by boat for Capri and transfer from Marina Grande to Anacapri to visit Villa San Michele and its magnificent park. Return to Capri and visit to the Gardens of Augustus, then, weather permitting, visit to the Blue Grotto, one of the marvels of Italy’s coastline. In this ancient karst cave, light refracted from an underwater opening, colours the walls and roof blue, and turns everything in the water - objects and bodies - into silver. Free time for shopping. Return to Naples and departure as planned.
