(Page 1 of 5 / Links to other pages at end of this page)
Day 1 – Naples Cathedral and the Accommodation near Sorrento
These webpages cover a 5-day/4-night trip to the Bay of Naples taken in March 2024. The author had been here before on an earlier trip, although this was about 30 years ago in the days where film photography was the only option for taking pictures! For this trip, flights were taken from the UK on a budget airline, local transport was mainly with a hire-car (not recommended for the feint-hearted or inexperienced driver), and accommodation was in an apartment booked online (more on this further down the page).
Above: Commanding view above Sorrento across the Bay of Naples towards Mount Vesuvius, as seen from the window of the apartment at Villa Walter.
On the first day, prior to heading to the accommodation, we took a brief look around Naples, parking in one of the secure city car parks (“Parcheggio Brin”). Our walk took us first to Piazza Garibaldi, located in the heart of the city. It is one of the largest city squares in Europe and forms a bustling convergence point and transport hub for visitors and commuters alike. The square is surrounded by a rich tapestry of history and modernity. Recent renovations have aimed to enhance the square's appeal, introducing urban parks, luxuriant gardens, and large ponds. These efforts reflect Naples' commitment to revitalizing its public spaces while preserving the unique character that defines this vibrant city:
We then headed to the city’s cathedral to take a look inside, before
heading back to the car. The Cathedral of Naples, known locally as
Cattedrale di San Gennaro, stands as a testament to the city's rich
religious and architectural heritage. This majestic cathedral is
dedicated to Naples' patron saint, San Gennaro, and is renowned for
housing a vial of the saint's blood, which is said to miraculously
liquefy during the annual Feast of San Gennaro.
Constructed between the 13th and 14th centuries, the cathedral showcases
a fusion of Gothic and Baroque elements. Its facade, adorned with
intricate sculptures and a grand rose window, invites visitors into a
world of historical splendour. Inside, the main nave leads to the Royal
Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro, which contains opulent artworks
and precious relics. The cathedral also features a baptistery that is
one of the oldest in the Western world, dating back to the 4th century.
Visitors can explore the rich tapestry of history within its walls, from
ancient mosaics to Renaissance paintings. As a living monument, the
Cathedral of Naples not only serves as a place of worship but also as a
cultural hub that connects visitors with the spiritual heart of Naples:
Villa Walter
Our accommodation comprised a double and a twin-bedroomed apartment at Villa Walter, one of the many places to stay on the Sorrento peninsula, which lies on the other side of the bay from the city of Naples. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Sorrento, Villa Walter presents itself as a tranquil retreat for those seeking a blend of comfort and serenity. With its stunning panoramic sea views, this charming villa offers a unique vantage point over the Bay of Naples and the imposing Mount Vesuvius. Villa Walter is conveniently situated on Via Nastro Azzurro, merely a 10-minute drive from the bustling centre of Sorrento (apologies for the next photo of the Villa – the morning we left was the only cloudy morning we had!):
The villa has air-conditioned apartments that come equipped with modern comforts such as free Wi-Fi, a TV, and a kitchenette. Each apartment is designed to maximize space and light, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests. The bathrooms are well-appointed with either a bath or shower. Guests have the option to request a delightful Italian dinner prepared by the host, adding an authentic touch to their culinary experience – we certainly took advantage of this option, allowing us to try many different Italian dishes over the 5 days, all cooked with fresh ingredients:
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
Reviews highlight Villa Walter's excellent staff, comfortable beds, and overall value for money. The consensus is clear: Villa Walter is an ideal choice for couples and families looking for a memorable stay in Sorrento.
Next Page (2): Amalfi Coast
Page 3: Pompeii
Page 4: Capri
Page 5: National Archaeological Museum of Naples
Back to Top
