Naples

Naples is Italy turned up to full volume. Laundry hangs across alleys, scooters weave through the crowds and the smell of fried pizza and fresh coffee follows you everywhere. It is also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, with a huge historic centre, an outstanding archaeological museum and the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum a short train ride away. Come hungry, keep your wits about you, and Naples will give you some of the warmest hospitality in the country.

Talking points

• Pizza as we know it is a Neapolitan invention, and the classic is the simple Margherita.
• Pompeii, Herculaneum and Mount Vesuvius are all reachable by local train or bus.
• The Archaeological Museum holds many of the finest finds from the buried Roman towns.
• Street smarts matter here: keep bags zipped and enjoy the energy.