One of the most underrated travel destinations in Europe in Naples, Italy. Located in the Campania region of Southern Italy, Naples offers visitors a variety of sights to see and activities to enjoy, from touring the ruins of Pompeii to exploring the luxurious islands of Ischia and Capri.

Here are five tips for traveling to Naples and its surrounding areas:

Consider Naples Capodichino Airport

Many tourists visiting Italy come and go through Rome. However, if your goal is to get to Naples, or if you'll be traveling elsewhere in Europe after your visit to the Campania region, don't waste your time with Rome's large and often confusing airport. Naples Capodichino Airport is actually an excellent hub for accessing the rest of Europe, especially the United Kingdom. Take advantage of this excellent option.

Don't drive in the city.

Driving in the city of Naples is absolute chaos. Stop signs and red lights are often taken as suggestions rather than rules or laws, and drivers are often going too fast for their own good. You'd be much better off utilizing the city's comprehensive system of public transportation in order to get around. Whatever money you spend on buses, trains, and taxis will be worth it: save yourself the aggravation of dealing with crazy Neapolitan drivers cutting you off on their Vespas.

the backstreets of Naples full of washing lines hanging from house to house. — Photo by Samuel C. on Unsplash

Explore the city's castles, churches, and palaces

If you're looking for beautiful castles and cathedrals without the ridiculous crowds found in Rome or Florence, Naples is the place to be. The city has three castles within its borders, including the Castel dell'Ovo (Egg Castle), which is located on an island in the Port of Naples. These castles provide excellent views of the city and a glimpse into the region's glorious past.

The devoutly catholic city is also home to various churches, including the famous Il Duomo (The Cathedral). Located in downtown Naples, Il Duomo is one of the most beautiful churches in Italy, and you can see both Greek and Roman ruins in the catacombs below. The church itself houses a vial of St. Gennaro's blood, which liquefies in front of the public twice a year. Citizens believe that if the blood does not liquefy, then the city is in great danger.

One other building worth visiting is located outside of Naples in the city of Caserta. Caserta Palace is a beautiful royal residence built in the 18th century for use by the Bourbon dynasty. The Palace also has a sprawling garden behind the main building, complete with fountains and various paths for walking. It's a beautiful, peaceful side trip for the wearied traveler looking for some culture while still trying to relax.

The ancient city streets of Pompeii 2 thousand years after the eruption of Mt.Vesuvius. — Photo by Christopher Ott on Unsplash

Visit Pompeii and Herculaneum

Thought to be destroyed by Mt. Vesuvius when it erupted in A.D. 79, both Pompeii and Herculaneum have since been uncovered and are open for tourists to visit. They provide a unique experience for visitors who wish to see what it was like to live in the Roman Empire. Both sites are relatively inexpensive to see and well worth your time when you visit.

Other places worth visiting in the Naples area include Capri, Ischia, and Sorrento. All three of these provide unique opportunities, including hiking, shopping, and other activities specific to the region.

Time your trip wisely

Naples has a rather hot climate that would wear many tourists out, especially if they visit during the summer.

It's especially important for visitors to avoid Italy in general during August as the entire country goes on vacation for the whole month.

The best time that I've found to enjoy Naples is during April or October. It's warm, but not too hot, and many sites will be less crowded then than in June or July.