Naples, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is rich in history. Spend a half day learning some of that history and seeing some of its magnificent sites on this walking and motor coach combo sightseeing excursion.
You will meet your guide at your Naples cruise port to begin your adventure on foot at Piazza Plebiscito. This beautiful plaza is located near the Gulf of Naples and is the site of several historic structures. Shoppers will enjoy visiting the public shopping gallery - Gallery Umberto I - named for the King of Italy. You will also visit The Royal Palace of Naples, which is more than a palace! It is also a museum and historic destination; one of the four residences used by the Bourbon Kings. Today it is home to an exquisite opera house - the Teatro di San Carlo - the oldest continuously active opera house in the world. Before leaving for your next destination, you will walk through Castel Nuovo (the New Castle), a very imposing structure built in the 13th century. When you pass through the Bronze Gates, you enter another era.
Relax and enjoy a sightseeing ride along Via Caracciolo for 1.5 hours and sit back to have your camera in hand as you drive through Mergellina in the coastal area of Naples, a fishing village famous for its seafood restaurants. You will also drive through Posillipo, the residential section of Naples on the northern coast of the Gulf. There are many houses along the water, each with small piers, as well as the ruins of the Imperial Villa and the landmarks of Villa Rosebery and The residence of the Italian President when he was in Naples.
Now that you are rested, you are ready for another guided walk through Spaccanapoli, the narrow main street that bisects the historic center. The name translates to mean "Naples splitter". There are so many incredible sites along this street. You will visit two of them specifically. The first is an exterior visit to Gesu Nuovo (the New Jesus Church), built as a palace in the 15th century. Its 7 chapels contain many beautiful frescos and bronze bas-reliefs. You will also see the exterior of Santa Chiara Church, built in the early 14th century for the wife of Robert, King of Naples. Its walls are reminiscent of a citadel, and today it is home to the convent of the Poor Clares and a community of Grey Friars! The tomb of King Robert is located behind the main altar.
After your amazing experience and exploring the churches, your guide will bring you back to your Naples cruise port. What a beautiful and inspirational time in Naples!
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