Kevin's Italian Adventure: Exploring Naples with Friends

Naples Beckons: A Day of Coastal Wonders

Today, Naples truly captivated me. It was a day filled with historical exploration, breathtaking coastal views, and of course, the indulgence of authentic Neapolitan flavors. Even though I sometimes miss the familiar streets of Berlin, each day here unfolds a new layer of Italian charm. I’m genuinely soaking in the culture, the history, and the vibrant spirit of this city.

Our day started bright and early with a traditional Neapolitan breakfast at Moccia Spaccanapoli. I opted for a *parigina* and a *pizzetta al forno tonda*, accompanied by a strong, dark coffee. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. The *parigina*, with its flaky crust and savory filling, was a delightful way to kick things off. I’m finding that the simple pleasures, like a well-made pastry and a good cup of coffee, are often the most memorable.


Discover authentic Neapolitan flavors at Moccia Spaccanapoli - your gateway to experiencing Naples' vibrant café culture.

With our appetites sated, we made our way to the iconic Ovo Castle. Perched on the ancient island of Megaride, now a peninsula, the castle has a history as rich and layered as a perfectly made lasagna. Walking across the causeway, the views of the Gulf of Naples were simply stunning. The water sparkled under the morning sun, and Vesuvius loomed majestically in the distance.


Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at Ovo Castle, a must-visit landmark in Naples, Italy, blending ancient architecture with scenic beauty.

Exploring the castle itself was like stepping back in time. Originally built in the 12th century by the Normans, it has served as a royal residence, a fortress, and even a prison. As I wandered through the ancient halls and climbed the ramparts, I could almost hear the echoes of centuries past. The views from the top were even more spectacular, offering a panoramic perspective of the city and the coastline. I learned about the legend of Virgil, the Roman poet who supposedly placed a magical egg in the castle's foundations to protect it. Legend has it that if the egg breaks, disaster will befall Naples. It's a charming tale that adds an extra layer of mystique to this already fascinating place.

To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries. - Aldous Huxley

After immersing ourselves in history at Ovo Castle, we took a leisurely stroll along the Lungomare Francesco Caracciolo. This picturesque promenade stretches along the coastline, offering stunning views of the bay and Mount Vesuvius. The Lungomare was bustling with activity. Families were enjoying a Saturday morning stroll, couples were holding hands as they gazed out at the sea, and street performers were entertaining the crowds with music and acrobatics. The air was filled with the scent of saltwater and the sound of laughter.


Discover the stunning Lungomare Francesco Caracciolo in Naples, a scenic waterfront promenade with breathtaking views and vibrant local culture.

The sun was warm, the breeze was gentle, and the atmosphere was simply intoxicating. I couldn't resist stopping for a gelato at one of the many vendors along the way. As I savored the creamy, sweet treat, I watched the boats bobbing in the harbor and listened to the sounds of the city. It was the perfect way to soak in the Neapolitan spirit.

Lunch beckoned, and we ventured to Ristorante Torre Normanna, enticed by its reputation for fresh seafood and stunning views. The restaurant is actually located a bit outside of Naples, in Maiori on the Amalfi Coast, but the trip was well worth it. The drive along the coast was breathtaking, with winding roads clinging to the cliffs and panoramic views of the sea. Torre Normanna itself is a sight to behold, a historic tower transformed into an elegant restaurant. We were greeted warmly and shown to a table overlooking the water. The menu was filled with tempting options, but I ultimately decided on the *scialatielli con frutti di mare*, a local pasta specialty with seafood. It was exquisite. The pasta was perfectly cooked, the seafood was fresh and flavorful, and the sauce was rich and decadent. Each bite was a taste of pure Italian bliss. My friends enjoyed the *anchovy*, and we shared a bottle of local white wine, which complemented the meal perfectly.


Experience exquisite Italian cuisine with breathtaking views at Ristorante Torre Normanna in Maiori on the Amalfi Coast.

In the late afternoon, we returned to Naples and decided to unwind with cocktails at Pepi Vintage Room. This cozy speakeasy is tucked away in the Decumani area and is known for its vintage decor and expertly crafted drinks. The atmosphere was intimate and inviting, with soft lighting, vintage furnishings, and a curated collection of vintage sunglasses. The bartender was a true mixologist, whipping up creative and delicious cocktails with flair. I opted for a classic Negroni, which was perfectly balanced and refreshing. As I sipped my drink, I listened to the smooth jazz music and chatted with my friends. It was the perfect way to relax and reflect on the day's adventures. I learned that there was a rave in town, Sam Paganini presents: RAVE - 10 Years Celebration at Click club, but that is not my kind of music, so I decided to pass.


Discover the vibrant Pepi Vintage Room in Naples, where exquisite cocktails meet a unique vintage atmosphere and live music.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Re Lazzarone for dinner. This restaurant, located near Via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, is known for its traditional Neapolitan cuisine and its lively atmosphere. We started with *bruschette miste* and *tempura di verdure*, and then I had the *paccheri pasta fresca crema di malenzane pesce spada*. Everything was delicious and bursting with flavor. The average price was around €25, and they had vegetarian options.


Discover authentic Neapolitan cuisine at Re Lazzarone, where tradition meets taste in every delicious dish.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum and Vesuvius National Park, so I wanted to make sure I got a good night’s rest. The promise of ancient ruins and volcanic landscapes is definitely something to look forward to!

What a day! From the historical depths of Ovo Castle to the coastal charm of Lungomare Caracciolo, every moment felt like a scene from a movie. I am so glad I came here with my friends, as experiencing all of this together makes it even more special. I am constantly reminded of how fortunate I am to be able to experience all of this.

As I sit here reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and contentment. Naples has a way of capturing your heart and leaving you wanting more. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, and I can't wait to see what this amazing city has in store for us.