Art of Naples Tour

Naples was once one of the highlights of any 18th century “Grand Tour” with a catchphrase of “See Naples and Die” reflecting its unparallelled beauty. It later became a byword for poverty and crime, but is now once again a vibrant destination with its wealth of sights to explore – especially when in the company of acclaimed art historian, Andrew Spira. From historic royal palaces to stunning churches, world class museums and galleries and a vibrant, bustling atmosphere in its busy streets, Naples is a feast for the senses and wonderful destination for a short, cultural break that is overlooked by most modern tourists heading to the Amalfi Coast.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Fly from Gatwick to Naples and transfer by coach on arrival to the UNA Hotel in the city centre for a four night stay. Evening welcome drink and talk at hotel followed by dinner with wine.

Day 2: The Churches of Naples
Today we explore the Spaccanapoli - the historic city centre  - with many churches, including San Gregorio Armeno, San Lorenzo Maggiore one of the oldest with its extraordinary catacombs) and Pio Monte della Misericordia. We’ll also visit the Galleria d’Italia in its sumptuous new home, that includes Caravaggio’s Martyrdom of St Ursula (thought to be his last painting). Evening talk at the hotel, with dinner with wine at a nearby local restaurant.

Day 3: 18^th Century Naples and castle area, towards the sea
Andrew will conduct a wonderful tour by coach today including  Castel Nuovo, a medieval Renaissance fortress by the Port of Naples, which contains frescoes by Giotto.  We’ll also take in Santa Teresa a Chiaia, the Monastery of San Martino, Castel Sant’Elmo, Teatro San Carlo, the oldest major working theatre in Europe (outside view) and the Bourbon Palazzo Reale from the days of Spanish rule. Evening free.

Day 4: Naples’ great museums
We’ll have a coach at our disposal today as we take in two of Naples, and indeed, Italy’s finest museums to round off our time in this remarkable city, that tell of its ancient past and wonderful artistic heritage. We’ll start with the National Archaeological Museum, which includes a wealth of  Roman artifacts from the nearby Pompeii, Stabiae and Herculaneum sites. Time for lunch to recharge (not included) and possibly the best until last as we head to the Museum of Capodimonte, set in another Bourbon palace with its superb collection of Renaissance and Baroque art. Evening free.

Day 5: Transfer by coach to Naples Airport for the return flight to London Gatwick. 

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 26 passengers.

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Gatwick to Naples
• Four nights bed and breakfast accommodation at the four-star Una Hotel, Naples, or similar, based on shared occupancy of a twin room
• First night welcome drink, and dinner with wine
• Two lectures at the hotel
• Second night dinner with wine at a local restaurant
• Transfers, tours and all entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary
• Andrew Spira and tour manager throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double for sole use room supplement
• Holiday insurance 
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc 
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

UNA Hotel, Naples

Dating back to the late 1800s, this elegant four star hotel is located close to Naples Central Station. It features a rooftop “Vesuvio” bar, restaurant and terrace, as well as comfortable bedrooms with all modern amenities.

Hotel Website