Naples is a city of endless perspectives, changing its shapes and colors depending on who observes it. A young traveler will notice corners, moments, and atmospheres that might escape a mature tourist, and vice versa. But most likely, the family is the ideal guest, the one most likely to fully enjoy the multiple aspects of a city that, when it wants to, can be truly magical both for children visiting it for the first time and for parents who let themselves be carried away, until it becomes impossible to distinguish who is accompanying whom.
Neapolitan Autumn: Unique Colors and Atmospheres
Summer is beautiful everywhere, but it’s from autumn onwards that pastel colors prefer to settle on the buildings of Spaccanapoli, as if lighting them up, as if reviving the bustle of the narrow streets, as if giving the corners, shops, and people those warm colors, that intense chatter, those music notes, those aromas from homes and trattorias.
Walking through that long, vibrant prelude to Christmas that is the Neapolitan autumn, from October, in an aesthetic crescendo that naturally reaches its peak in December, visiting the Decumani and San Gregorio Armeno street is a journey through time, or timeless. Certainly, ageless. Magic, folklore, musicality, and above all, art.
A Special Moment: the Mandolin Workshop
Along the way, a magical stop at the Mandolin Workshop of master luthiers Salvatore Masiello and Michele Caiazza for a “coffee with mandolin” to discover the “ancient Neapolitan lutherie tradition. An” experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and music in an unforgettable moment for the whole family.
The Sea and Castles: Outdoor Adventures
Walking down Via Toledo, you can’t miss a walk or bike ride along the spectacular seafront that runs along Via Caracciolo to Mergellina, which has recently become a pedestrian area, perfect for the sunny days that Naples certainly doesn’t lack.
Just steps away is the Naples Aquarium, inaugurated in 1874, one of the most fascinating historic marine facilities in Europe. A visit to Castel dell’Ovo is a must, giving children the fairy-tale sensation of entering an authentic castle. A castle that, obviously, couldn’t help but tie itself to an illustrious legend, featuring the poet Virgil. It is said that the illustrious Latin was, even before San Gennaro, a protector of the Parthenopean city.
The view you can enjoy is second only to the one you can admire from another castle, located higher up: Castel Sant’Elmo, on the Vomero hill.
Artistic and Natural Treasures
Adults and children will be enchanted by the Cuciniello nativity scene, a permanent exhibit at the National Museum of San Martino, composed of ancient pieces dating back to the 18th century. A marvel of Neapolitan craftsmanship that tells the city’s nativity scene tradition.
Staying outdoors, you can’t miss a visit to the Capodimonte woods with the Royal Palace. A park with elegant and urban appearances that, when explored in its entirety, reveals corners of authentic nature that leave you pleasantly surprised.
The Botanical Garden: an Oasis of Culture and Nature
We conclude our virtual tour with a walk through the Botanical Garden, an oasis of freshness and culture founded in 1729. A perfect place for children to discover Mediterranean biodiversity in a historically fascinating setting.
Family Events
Worth noting are the wonderful musical and theatrical events organized in the city for families by the association I Teatrini (www.iteatrini.it), which offers shows and activities specifically designed for younger audiences.
Maison Degas awaits you in the heart of Naples, in Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, to begin your family adventure discovering this magical city. Our charming residence is the ideal starting point to explore all these treasures with the comfort and hospitality that only a structure in the historic center can offer.
