Kevin's Italian Adventure: Exploring Naples with Friends

Elevated Explorations in Naples

Today was all about seeing Naples from a new perspective—literally! My friends and I dedicated the day to exploring the heights of the city, visiting the Certosa e Museo di San Martino. It’s amazing how much a change in elevation can alter your perception of a place. Having lived in relatively flat Berlin, the chance to gain some altitude and soak in panoramic views was something I was really looking forward to, and Naples certainly didn't disappoint.


Explore the rich history and breathtaking views at Certosa e Museo di San Martino in Naples, a must-visit destination for art and history lovers.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at 'A Lucianella. Fueled up with classic Neapolitan pastries and strong coffee, we were ready to tackle the climb—or rather, the funicular ride—up to the Certosa di San Martino. It was a beautiful morning, the sun casting a golden glow over the city as we made our way to the monastery.

The Montesanto Funicular was definitely the way to go. As we ascended, the views became increasingly breathtaking, offering a tantalizing glimpse of what awaited us at the top. Arriving at the Certosa, I was immediately struck by the serenity of the place. Despite being a popular tourist destination, it exuded a sense of calm and history that was palpable.

Sometimes, the best way to understand a place is to see it from above, to gain a broader perspective that connects the dots and reveals the hidden beauty.

The Certosa e Museo di San Martino is a former Carthusian monastery that now houses a museum showcasing Neapolitan art and history. The architecture itself is a masterpiece, a beautiful example of Baroque design. We wandered through the cloisters, admiring the intricate details and the peaceful atmosphere. The museum's collection was equally impressive, with paintings by renowned 17th-century artists and exhibits detailing the city's rich past. Of particular interest to me was the collection of Neapolitan nativity scenes; these elaborate miniature villages, filled with hundreds of tiny figures, offered a fascinating glimpse into local traditions and craftsmanship. The views from the terraced gardens were simply stunning. From this vantage point, we could see the entire Bay of Naples, with Vesuvius looming majestically in the distance. It was the perfect spot for taking photos and simply soaking in the beauty of the city.

After spending a few hours at the Certosa, we made our way to Castel Sant'Elmo, another hilltop fortress offering panoramic views. Originally a church dedicated to St. Erasmus, it was transformed into a castle in 1349. Over the centuries, it has served various purposes, including a military prison. Today, it's home to the Museo del Novecento, dedicated to 20th-century Neapolitan art. Getting to Castel Sant'Elmo involved a bit more walking, but the effort was well worth it. The castle's star-shaped design is quite unique, and its imposing presence dominates the Vomero hill. As we explored the castle grounds, we learned about its history and its role in the city's defense. The views from Castel Sant'Elmo were even more expansive than those from the Certosa, offering a 360-degree panorama of Naples and its surroundings. From here, we could see the sprawling cityscape, the coastline stretching out to the horizon, and the islands of Capri and Ischia shimmering in the distance.


Explore the historic Castel Sant'Elmo in Naples, a fortress offering breathtaking views, rich history, and captivating exhibitions.

Inside the castle, the Museo del Novecento showcased a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art. While I'm generally more drawn to historical artifacts, I found the museum's exhibits to be thought-provoking and engaging, offering a glimpse into the artistic movements that have shaped Naples over the past century. After our dose of culture, we were ready for a late lunch. We headed to Ristorante Amici Miei, a charming spot known for its authentic Neapolitan cuisine. I opted for a classic Margherita pizza, which, of course, was absolutely divine. There’s just something about the simplicity and freshness of the ingredients here that makes it taste so much better than anywhere else. My friends tried some local seafood dishes, and everyone was thoroughly satisfied.

As the sun began to set, we decided to check out Shanti Art Musik Bar for a pre-dinner drink. Tucked away in one of the city's vibrant neighborhoods, this quirky bar was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The bar was filled with colorful artwork and Tibetan prayer flags, creating a relaxed and bohemian atmosphere. We ordered some Aperol spritzes and enjoyed the laid-back vibe, chatting with locals and fellow travelers. It turned out that tonight was also the night for the WèWè Expat community meeting in Naples. It was great to see so many people from different backgrounds coming together to socialize and share their experiences of living in Naples. I even met a few other content creators and social media managers, and we exchanged contacts for future collaborations.

For dinner, we decided to try Ristorante A Figlia d'O Luciano, a traditional Neapolitan restaurant known for its authentic dishes and lively atmosphere. The restaurant was packed with locals, which is always a good sign. We ordered a variety of dishes, including pasta with seafood, fried zucchini flowers, and, of course, more pizza. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was electric, with everyone talking and laughing. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Naples from above.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I am excited to explore the Catacombs of San Gennaro and the Complesso Monumentale San Lorenzo Maggiore. Also, I want to check out Via San Biagio Dei Librai. It sounds like another day filled with history and culture, and I can't wait to see what new adventures await. I am particularly interested in learning more about the city's religious history and seeing the underground burial sites. I've heard that the Catacombs are quite impressive, and I'm looking forward to experiencing them firsthand. I am also curious to see the Complesso Monumentale San Lorenzo Maggiore, which is said to be one of the most important historical sites in Naples. And of course, I’m hoping to find some unique souvenirs along Via San Biagio Dei Librai.

After a full day, I am starting to feel like a local. I am also feeling thankful that I packed my camera; I am also glad that I remembered to bring my comfortable walking shoes. I am a bit bummed that I forgot my travel adapter for Italian outlets, though. I need to remember to buy one tomorrow. I am also glad that I remembered to bring my portable charger, because I definitely needed it today. It has been a great trip so far, and I am excited to see what the rest of our time in Naples brings. I am also glad that I got to experience it with my friends. They definitely made the trip more enjoyable. Overall, today was a fantastic day of exploring Naples from above. The Certosa di San Martino and Castel Sant'Elmo offered breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture. The delicious food and lively atmosphere made it a truly unforgettable experience. As I reflect on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this amazing city and share my experiences with you all.

Until tomorrow!