Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Napoli Sotterranea, Naples
It's a storybook scenario: you're led into a house, and then
down a secret porthole into a magical labyrinth of ancient Graeco-Roman passageways
and cisterns.
»
Catacomba di San Gennaro, Naples
More subterranean excitement awaits at this an-
cient burial ground, complete with mysterious-looking frescoes and a setting that looks
straight out of
Raiders of the Lost Ark
.
»
Anfiteatro Flavio, Pozzuoli
Play out your own centurion battles at Italy's third-largest
Roman amphitheatre. The area below the main arena is one of the country's best pre-
served.
»
Cimitero delle Fontanelle, Naples
It's Halloween every day at the ghoulish Fontanelle
Cemetery, stacked with human skulls and bones. To appreciate its mystery, explore the
site on a guided tour.
Planning
When to Go
The best time for families to visit Naples and around is May, June or September. The
weather is warm and sunny, and the peak-season crowds of July and August are absent. If
you're planning on beach time, July is a good bet. Colourful floats and costumes make
Carnevale (February or March) another good choice, while the region's famous
presepi
(Christmas cribs) make December magical.
Where to Stay
In high season (summer), camping grounds are buzzing, and many offer activities for
youngsters. Hostels and apartments are also a good bet for families, offering multibed
rooms, guest kitchens and lounge facilities.
Agriturismo
(farm stays) offer plenty of space
and perhaps a few furry friends.
Book accommodation in advance whenever possible. In hotels, some double rooms
can't accommodate an extra bed for kids, so check ahead. If the child is small enough to
share your bed, some hoteliers will let you do this for free. The website
www.booking.com
specifies the 'kid policy' for every hotel listed and what extra charges
incurred.
Where to Eat
Most nosheries welcome kids, especially trattorias and pizzerias. If reserving a table, ask
if they have a
seggiolone
(high chair). Children's menus are uncommon, though request-
ing a
mezzo piatto
(half plate) off the menu is usually fine.
