NAPLES FAQ`S

How do I get from the airport to my hotel?

Naples`s Aeroporto Capodichino (www.gesac.it), is only 4 miles from the city center. If you have not booked a private transfer with us then you have a few options, such as taxi, bus or car rental.

From the airport, you can take a taxi into town (make sure it is an official white taxi with the Naples municipal logo); fixed fares exist for a number of destinations, and must be clearly shown in the cab.

Another option is to take a bus for about €5 (called Alibus) which has two stops only: Stazion Central (Central Station) and Piazza Municipio, near the main ferry port (molo Beverello). You can purchase your ticket on the bus and the ticket is valid for further public transport trips, up to 90 minutes after validation. Another option is to take the 3S bus that will take you to the same stops at the Alibus for less. The difference is that the Alibus has limited stops, but the 3S will take you to the backstreets leading to the Stazione, countinuiing all the way to the port and a shopping district. Also, the Alibus is air conditioned whereas most 3S are not.

The city has two main rail terminals: Stazione Centrale, at Piazza Garibaldi, and Stazione Mergellina, at Piazza Piedigrotta. Most travelers will arrive at Stazione Central. Nearby, on Corso Garibaldi, is Stazione Circumvesuviana Napoli-Porta Nolana (www.vesuviana.it), the starting point for commuter lines serving the Vesuvian and coastal area south of Naples, including Sorrento, Pompeii, and Ercolano.

How do I get from the train station to my hotel?

The main station in Naples is Napoli Centrale, located at Garibaldi square and connected to the city`s subway system. It`s a rather large area with multiple substations (platform groups). Under the same roof, a few hundred meters south-east, there`s the Piazza Garibaldi station - here you can catch local and regional Circumvesuviana trains. West of the main station platforms, and few escalators down, is the entrance to Line 1. Some of the trains (e.g. towards Caserta) also share the platforms with Line 2. The entrances/substations for the individual lines are signposted visibly. However, the info tables at the substations only show the lines departing from the local platforms. So if you are at the wrong substation, you won`t see your train time/platform info at the tables - and need to continue searching. From around the station, the bus routes Alibus, R2 and 151, the tram route 1 and the metro Line 1 will take you within three blocks of the ferries at Stazione Marittima.

A massive new high-speed railway hub, Napoli Afragola, has been built about 7.5 miles north of the city center. Some high speed trains running between Rome and points south of Naples will bypass the city center and only use this station. Local trains call here as well, meaning that central Naples is just an easy interchange away if you`re arriving here.

Other stations include Napoli Mergellina, a magnificent Art Déco building and Napoli Campi Flegrei.

How do I get around Naples using Public Transportation?

Naples` public transportation system is fairly difficult to understand for the first time visitor, since different lines are operated by different companies and sometimes interexchange is not allowed between different providers. With the creation of the organization UnicoCampania with the aim of managing an integrated fare system for the whole region of Campania, has seen a real simplication of the tariffs. Within city limits, integrated tickets are available for use on any kind of vehicle and company. These tickets are available for about €1.60 for one hour of validity, and €4.50 for a day. Besides, a Corsa Semplice ticket, valid for one ride in only one transport company, is available at the fare of about €1.10.

The Metropolitana (subway) has three lines: line 1 (managed by ANM) from Piazza Dante to the Vomero and beyond; line 2 is actually a commuter rail service operated by Trenitalia, crosses the city from west to east and have 10 stations within the city limits; Line 6 (managed by ANM) is a light subway connecting Fuorigrota to Mergellina with 4 stops with plans to expand this line to the port.

The funicular train (www.metro.na.it) takes passengers up and down the steep hills of Naples. Centrale connects the lower part of the city to Vomero. Daily departures are from Piazzetta Duca d`Aosta just off Via Roma. The same tickets valid for buses and the Metro are good for the funicular.

Buses are all operated by ANM operate within Naples, most of which are circular. Buses are usually overcrowded and often slow due to serious problems of traffic jams, so try to avoid them if you can (except for evenings and weekends).

How do I call/hail a taxi?

Taxis and the Metro are the quickest ways to see Naples. Taxis are the most expensive way, though. Before getting into a taxi, make sure it is licensed. Licensed taxis will have a city crest on the door and a taxi number. Also, make sure it has a meter. By law, licensed taxis must display a list of set fares in a number of languages (Italian, English, French, German and Spanish). Check for such fares and agree to them before starting the journey.

Is Naples a walking city?

You will be surprised how easily you can get around by foot. Interesting spots are almost on every corner and most distances (especially in the historic center) are small and can be walked in a matter of minutes.

While walking, remember: For Neapolitan drivers, red lights are mere suggestions; cross busy streets carefully, and stick with a crowd if possible. Always look both ways when crossing a street, because a lot of driver`s scoff at the notion of a one-way street. The zebra stripes (white lines) in the street meant to indicate pedestrians have the right of way mean absolutely nothing here.

I will have a car in Naples, where can I park?

It is not recommended to drive in the city due to traffic congestion, ancient streets not ideal for cars, and parking shortages in the city. We recommend you leave your car parked and use public transportation to visit the city, you may consider parking your vehicle at your hotel (at a few). Some additional parking options are near the center of Naples with unlimited and safeguarded parking or the open air parking on the outskirts of the city. Public metro and bus transport to the center is available.

Note: the city centre is a ZTL zone with no access to visiting car drivers, only available for residents with special permits. Centro Storico, Mezzocannone and Piazza del Gesù are part of the ZTL zone (`Zona Traffico Limitato`).

On-street parking in Naples applies in the central area (Via Foria ,Via Cyril, Via Carbonara and Via Poerio plus nearby streets and on Piazza Mercato) on parking bays with blue lines on Monday-Sunday from 8:00am-8:00pm; Monday-Saturday 1st hour is about €2.00, after that €2.50/hour; Sunday (and Public Holidays) is about €1.00 for every 2 hours.

How do I get around by ferry and hydrofoil?

There are several ferry and hydrofoil services that connect Naples and local ports and islands. Ferry and hydrofoil services leave from either Molo Beverello, Porta di Massa(approx. 0.6 miles by foot from Beverello), Mergellina or Pozzuoli Cumana . Some then of them are listed here:

-Metrò del Mare has several lines that connect Naples and Sapri; Bacoli and Salerno and Sorrento; Monte di Procida and Salerno; and, Amalfi and Sapri. Besides the main stops the ferry service also connects many smaller communities. The Metro del Mare webpage has schedules, timetables and location of ticket counters. It seems to only operate in summer.

-L.N.G. has a hydrofoil service that connects Naples with the island of Capri, along with Sorrento, Positano and Amalfi.

-AliLauro has a hydrofoil service that connects Naples with the islands of Ponza, Ventotene, Procida, Ischia, Capri and Eolie, and the towns of Formia, Castellamare, Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi and Salerno. Alilauro operates from both the Molo Beverello and Mergelina.

-MedMar, Caremar and SNAV operate hydrofoils and ferries. Reaching one of the islands in the gulf by ferry can take up to 70 minutes (hydrofoils are much faster, but more expensive).

For most of the year, the sea is calm, and in any case when it happens to be rough the boats` runs are stopped. Ferries also have open decks, which are particularly attractive and scenic to use in spring and summer. The sunlight is bright here, so cover up or use sunscreen to prevent sunburns.

Is Naples a dangerous city? Are there certain areas I should avoid?

People in Naples are extremely nice and gentle, ready to help if you are in difficulty or lost. It is not uncommon for Neapolitans try to make themselves understood with words and gesture, being very aware and proud of their town`s beauties. Aside from issues of petty crime, Naples is generally safe.

Nevertheless, Naples is infamous for the local Camorra (mafia) related crime, which pose little to no threat on your visit, since it is involved in activities like prostitution (which is illegal in Italy), racketeering and drug trafficking. We do recommend to use your wits in this city that has a bad reputation regarding safety, mainly due to stereotypes, since the city`s security level is actually comparable to many other European big cities. Petty crime does happen so be watchful; avoid empty streets and dark alleys at night. Always use common sense. Do not carry a lot of cash, wear expensive jewelry, walk around with an expensive camera hanging from your neck, place your phone on café tables, or walk along in dark streets at night. If you have a money belt, use it! Pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation happen often. When walking, carry any bags on the side away from the street to avoid thieves whizzing past on motorbikes.

Typical examples of places better to avoid after dark are the `Quartieri Spagnoli` (Spanish Quarters) and the `Sanità`, both in the historic center, that are reasonably safe during the day and also have notable points of interest. Especially to be avoided, but of no practical interest for tourists, is Scampia, where there is much petty crime and drug traffic.

Can I pay/tip in US dollars?

The currency of Naples is the Euro, US dollars are not accepted. Naples has plenty of ATMs in and around the city to withdraw cash, and most of the top restaurants, shopping centers, boutiques, hotels, etc. accept credit cards.

What is the weather like? When is the best time to visit?

Naples offers a pleasant Mediterranean climate, with cool, rainy winters, and hot, dry summers. The best time to visit Naples is between March and April when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds aren`t quite so thick. Summertime is characterized by hot and humid weather and makes touring everything but the beach sticky and sweaty. In the fall, you`ll experience a drop in temperatures, but this is accompanied by ample rain showers. Between Winters (December - February) are mild with highs hovering in the mid-50`s and sunny days alternating with gray, gloomy ones, but this is low season when accommodations are cheap and may be worth the relatively low temps.

I don`t speak Italian. Will many people speak English?

The most widely spoken language in Naples is Italian, or a mixture of Italian and Neapolitan (Napulitano). Neapolitan is sometimes described as an Italian dialect, but it is recognized by UNESCO as a distinct language with well-defined roots. The official language of Naples (as of all of Italy), however, is Italian, and everyone can speak it when prompted, though often with a strong local accent.

English is the most commonly spoken foreign language, although the average knowledge of English is far from excellent. Most staff at tourism-related venues (hotels, restaurants) speaks English, and plenty of attractions (museums, guided tours) feature a wide openness to the English speaking public. We suggest you get a good English-Italian guidebook and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1-10.

What is the food like?

You will find many sauces based on garlic sautéed in extra-virgin olive oil, tomatoes, and local red wines. Fresh mozzarella di bufala (mozzarella made from European buffaloes` milk) is also typical of the region; worth every bite! Pizza is a traditional Neapolitan dish, it became ubiquitous in the Italian cuisine only in modern times. Make sure to try the original margherita with tomato, basil and fresh mozzarella toppings. In Naples every pizzeria makes a decent pizza, and Neapolitans believe their pizza is the best in the world. Neapolitan pizza is very thin-crusted and saucy and is expected to be eaten as a whole pie while sitting down. You`ll find some places display the label `Vera Pizza Napoletana` (translates: true Neapolitan Pizza) which indicates that the pizzeria follows the standards of the Naples Pizza Association.

Seafood is a staple Neapolitan cuisine, fitting for its status as an ancient and functioning port. The most popular fish dish is Polpo all Luciana, which is an octopus cooked in a terracotta pan with tomatoes, garlic, capers, pepper and black olives of Gaeta, served with chopped parsley. Other popular dishes are spaghetti alle vongole, acqua pazza, paccheri with fish soup and anchovies, prepared in various recipes or added on pizza.

Other delectable foods can be found at Spaccanapoli, a street located adjacent to Christmas Alley. Spaccanapoli is home to Neapolitan specialties like frittatina (fried pasta served with tomato sauce and cheese) and cakes, such as ricotta-stuffed sfogliatella, orange-infused pastry and rum-flavored baba. And for a cool treat on a warm night, try any one of the gelato cafes that ring Naples` Mergellina Bay.

Along with pizza and gelato, coffee is another Italian specialty you won`t want to miss while in Naples. Caffè Mexico and Gran Caffè Gambrinus are among the city`s most beloved coffee bars. Have an espresso at the bar to experience coffee like a true Italian! While you`re at it, check out granite – a refreshing drink usually made with fruit, syrups and ice, which is also said to have originated in Naples. You can find it at nearly every cafe in the city, especially those that border the water.

What are the best areas for shopping?

Naples has lively markets and many small shops that sell everything from clothes to household appliances at prices much lower than in most of Western Europe. Don`t miss the Porta Nolana, Pignasecca and the Vasto markets, which also give a grasp of popular Neapolitan life. Especially to be seen is the impromptu fish market which happens (mostly) on Sunday morning at Rotonda Diaz, the central square of Via Caracciolo. Small fishing boats come ashore, and directly sell fresh and often alive fish and octopuses, a very characteristic and joyful scene of Naples` life.

Via Chiaia and Via Toledo are two major shopping streets near the city center. Spaccanapoli in the Centro Storico is packed with street vendors and odd-shops. The small street Via Port`Alba, near Piazza Dante is home to a large number of bookstores.

Note: Value-added tax (VAT) rate is currently 22% in Italy for standard goods. A reduced rate of 10% applies to some foodstuffs; water supplies, some pharmaceutical products; domestic passenger transport; admission to cultural events; some hotel accommodations; restaurants; admission to certain sports events; alcoholic beverages in bars and cafes, etc.

What are the best areas for nightlife?

Naples is becoming increasingly popular with a younger generation of Italians and foreigners who flood into the city and lend renewed energy to its nightlife. The hippest scene is around the bars and cafes on Piazza Bellini, Piazza Santa Maria la Nova and Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, becoming busy after 11:00pm. Also, Piazza San Pasquale and Mergellina are typical places for the locals. If you want to venture to the outskirts of the city, there are many bars and clubs near the port and boardwalk of Pozzuoli.

How can I connect to internet throughout the city?

Naples has a free network of public Wi-Fi access, which fills the following zones:

The seaside (all the area between via Partenope and Castel dell`Ovo, Lungomare Caracciolo and Villa Comunale); Palazzo delle Arti (PAN). Every user can use these free hotspots for 2 hours per day.

What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?

If you have an emergency, dial (tel) 113 to reach the police. For medical care, dial (tel) 118, but only in an emergency. To find the local Guardia Medica Permanente, ask for directions at your hotel.