The palace is considered one of the largest and most magnificent royal residences in Europe, and is often referred to as the „Versailles of Southern Italy„. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

About the Royal Palace of Caserta

The history of the Royal Palace of Caserta

The palace was commissioned by King Charles III of Spain (who was also King of Naples and Sicily) in the mid-18th century. The king wanted the palace to compete with Europe’s largest royal residences, such as the Palace of Versailles, and to be worthy of the power and wealth of the Bourbon dynasty.

Construction began in 1752 under the direction of architect Luigi Vanvitelli, who was one of the most significant figures in Italian Baroque architecture. Although the palace was never completely finished during Vanvitelli’s lifetime, the work was continued thanks to his son, Carlo Vanvitelli.

Architecture and interior spaces

The Caserta Palace is impressive with its grandiose dimensions: 247 meters long, 5 stories high, and featuring more than 1,200 rooms, 34 staircases, and 1,742 windows. The interior is richly decorated: frescoes, statues, marble columns, and inlaid floors make the rooms exceptional.

• Throne Room: The central part of the palace is the ornate Throne Room, adorned with gilded decorations, wonderful frescoes, and enormous chandeliers. This room served as the venue for royal ceremonies and receptions.
• Chapel: The palace’s imposing royal chapel is reminiscent of the Versailles chapel and boasts fine Baroque decorations. Royal weddings and religious ceremonies were held here.
• Theater: The palace also includes a smaller theater designed for performances by the Bourbon court. The theater has wonderful acoustics and an elegant interior.

The Palace Park and Gardens

The park of the Caserta Palace is also impressive, extending in a seemingly endless axis behind the palace, covering about 120 hectares. The garden is decorated with fountains, artificial lakes, waterfalls, and statues that harmoniously blend with the surrounding hills.

The palace’s famous English garden was commissioned by King Ferdinand III’s wife, Maria Carolina. This English-style garden is enriched with exotic plants, artificial lakes, and romantic pavilions.

One of the central elements of the palace park is the huge waterfall located at the end of a long canal. Along the water’s path, fountains depict mythological scenes, such as the story of Diana and Actaeon.

The role of the Caserta Palace in history

The palace was one of the most important residences of the Bourbon dynasty and became the venue for numerous historical events. During World War II, the building was used as headquarters by the Allied forces, and the agreement on the surrender of German forces in Italy was signed here in 1945.

The Caserta Palace in modern culture

It is not only a special attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts but may also be familiar to film fans. It has been the filming location for numerous famous movies; for example, some scenes from Spaceballs and Star Wars were filmed here. The palace’s grandiose spaces and classical elegance provide an excellent film set.

How to get to the Caserta Palace?

Caserta is easily accessible from Naples by train, which takes about 30-40 minutes. The palace is within walking distance from the center of Caserta city, and you can spend an entire day exploring the interior spaces and the vast garden.

The most beautiful castles in the world

As I’m a huge fan of castles, I couldn’t miss out on an article showcasing the most beautiful castles around the world.

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A Royal Palace of Caserta: Italy’s Versailles bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.

I always say that there are two opinions about Naples. Either you like it or you can’t reconcile with the „chaos” in the city. I belong to the first group; I was captivated by the Neapolitan atmosphere during my first visit. In many places it’s littered, motorcyclists and drivers come from almost everywhere, constantly honking, but this is part of the city.

Friday

We traveled with the Wizz Air flight departing at 2 PM. From the airport, we took the Alibus to Garibaldi Square, from where our accommodation was a few hundred meters away. You can buy tickets for the Alibus in the airport arrival hall, but it’s also possible on the bus. It costs 5 euros.

In the evening, we planned a dinner and a short walk in the city center. Being Friday, there was a lot of hustle and bustle, Via Duomo and the surrounding streets were full. There are many small restaurants and street food stalls here; we sat down in a small pizzeria.

The image of the Napoli football team and, of course, Maradona can be seen at every turn on the streets. This is an integral part of the city.

Saturday

This day was about Naples’ downtown. Originally, the Amalfi Coast was in the plan, but since one day would have been too rushed, I postponed it for another occasion.

We went to the Archaeological Museum in the morning. On the way, we briefly visited Porta Capuana and Palazzo dello Spagnolo for a photo.

Entry to the museum was free for ladies on Women’s Day, so we took advantage of the fact that one of us saved 20 euros. 🙂 If I had to recommend one museum, I would definitely suggest this one. There are numerous wonderful ancient relics: statues, paintings, mosaics, various objects. We enjoyed every part of it.

From here, it’s not far to the castle rising above the city, which you can easily reach by funicular. We went up with the one departing from the Montesanto station. The ticket costs 1.30 euros, and there’s a great view of the surroundings.

The panorama of the city center from the castle forecourt is beautiful, but the real view is from the castle wall. The entrance fee is 5 euros and it’s well worth it. You can see all parts of Naples from here. Plus, Vesuvius and the islands of Ischia and Procida are also in the view. You can also go to the top by elevator, and there’s a café up there.

From the castle, we descended to the Spanish Quarter (Quartieri Spagnoli) via a winding staircase on the eastern side. Going uphill requires quite a bit of climbing, so if you don’t like climbing many stairs, definitely take the funicular up.

The Spanish Quarter is considered the most authentic Neapolitan area. Narrow streets, clothes hanging between houses, and a street corner dedicated to Maradona (Murale Diego Armando Maradona). There was a large crowd, with many restaurants and shops. We had a late lunch here.

In the southeastern part of the quarter stands the Galleria Umberto I, a covered domed hall. There is almost the same in Milan (Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II). It’s full of shops, an elegant hall.

Towards the seafront, we reach the central square of Naples. On Piazza del Plebiscito, there are two notable buildings: the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola and the Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale di Napoli).

We walked further along the main coastal road and immediately reached the castle. There are major construction works around Castel Nuovo, so photo opportunities are limited. But the view of the castle is impressive nonetheless.

It was starting to get dark, and there was one more sight left. We visited the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta on Via Duomo. Mass was just in progress, and we listened to it for a few minutes. It’s a very beautiful church with a huge interior space and frescoes.

Naples in TikTok video

Sunday

Since they forecast great weather for this day, we scheduled Pompeii and the Vesuvius tour for this day.

We bought tickets for Pompeii online on Thursday. You only need to select the day, and you can enter anytime within the entry period.

We went to Vesuvius by public transportation; several buses run daily from the Pompeii railway station to the highest parking lot (bus number 808). Tickets can be purchased on the bus or at the railway station. It’s worth buying a return ticket at the station, which costs 2.30 euros each way, compared to 3.30 euros on the bus.

Even from the way up, there’s a wonderful view of Naples. The bus reached the top in 45 minutes; we were up there at 9:20 AM. From the highest parking lot, you can reach the crater with a leisurely walk in about 20 minutes. You can walk around about half of it, and there are three snack bars along the way. The crater itself is a huge hole, but the greatest experience is that we can say we walked on a volcano’s caldera. 🙂

Going down, we easily caught the 11 o’clock bus, so by noon we were already sitting in a restaurant in Pompeii.

After lunch, we entered the „ruins city” of Pompeii through the entrance opposite the railway station. Next to the entrance, there’s a free luggage storage outside. You select an appropriate sized compartment, and the machine gives you a receipt with the code needed to open it.

The archaeological area is very large; you should devote at least 3-4 hours to it. We explored most parts, spending more than 3 hours. It’s advisable to choose a direction and proceed accordingly. Inside, there’s one café and toilets in several places.

You can take very beautiful pictures since on one side there’s Vesuvius, and on the other side, the high mountains of the Apennines rise. If you’re in Naples, don’t miss this place!

Pompeii in TikTok video

Monday

This day was left for the return journey, as the Wizz Air plane departed at 11:45 AM.

Around 9, we walked to the Centrale train station; the Alibus departs from the front entrance. Tickets can be purchased on the bus, exclusively by credit card. (Supposedly, you can also buy them at the train station, but I can’t say where.)

A Naples, Vesuvius and Pompeii in a long weekend bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.

Attractions around Naples

Pompeii

The place became famous due to its tragic destruction. On August 24, 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted and covered the city with ash and lava.

Due to the several meters thick layer of ash, the buildings, artifacts, and even the remains of people who lived there were preserved in exceptionally good condition for posterity. The city’s streets, houses, baths, temples, shops, and amphitheater were all preserved. The frescoes, mosaics, and wall paintings found here are also outstanding from an artistic perspective.

Interestingly, the ruins were only discovered by accident in the 16th century. Today, it’s one of Italy’s premier tourist destinations and a World Heritage site.

All information can be found here!

From Naples, the Circumvesuviana train runs from Garibaldi station (next to Centrale station). Get off at the Scavi station. The schedule can be found here.

Mount Vesuvius

One of Europe’s most famous and dangerous active volcanoes, which defines Naples’ skyline.

Its crater is currently about 300 meters deep and 600 meters wide. Although its last significant eruption was in 1944, Vesuvius remains active and is continuously monitored by the Italian Volcanological Institute. Due to volcanic activity, the soil around the volcano is extremely fertile, making the region famous for its wines and agricultural products.

Several organized tours to Vesuvius depart from Naples and other nearby towns. Those arriving by car can drive up to the parking lot at 800 meters, from where they must continue on foot. This is a 20-30 minute steep climb, but the panorama from above compensates for the effort.

The crater tour requires a fee! Tickets can be purchased on this website. You need to select the day and time. The calendar shows which days and time slots still have availability.

Sorrento

The city is popular with tourists due to its steep rocky coastline and wonderful location.

Several medieval monuments can be found in its downtown area. The 14th-century St. Francis Monastery welcomes visitors with quiet gardens and beautiful views. The city’s cathedral (Cattedrale di Sorrento) is an impressive building from the 11th century, featuring beautiful interior frescoes and carvings. The Correale Museum displays archaeological finds and artifacts.

Sorrento’s most famous attraction is its unparalleled view of the Gulf of Naples, Isle of Capri, and Mount Vesuvius. There are numerous viewpoints along the city’s steep rocky coastline.

While here, try limoncello (lemon liqueur). This is an alcoholic beverage made from lemons. No wonder, as you can see lemon trees and even lemon farms everywhere!

Direct trains, the Circumvesuviana, run to Sorrento from Garibaldi station (next to Centrale station). The schedule can be found here.

Amalfi Coast

Probably everyone has heard of this coastal section. The approximately 40 km stretch from Positano to almost Sorrento offers amazing views of the sea, where the road leads through the cliff face.

We can also experience this beautiful panorama during a hike. The Sentiero degli Dei, the Path of the Gods, is a 7.8 km long path between Nocelle and Bomerano. You need to be very careful as often only a small path leads through the cliff face.

There are three must-visit places on the Amalfi Coast: Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. All three towns offer beautiful sea views, and most accommodations can be found here.

Travel is possible by bus from Sorrento or from the other direction, Salerno. Buses from both directions run to Amalfi, and continuing requires a transfer. Schedules can be found here. Tickets cannot be purchased on the bus; they are available at tobacco shops, newsstands, and cafes.

Positano and Amalfi can also be reached by boat from Sorrento, Capri, and Salerno. The schedule can be found here.

Between Salerno and Naples, you can easily travel by train (in addition to the direct bus between the airport and the city). Multiple trains run between the two cities every hour. The schedule can be checked on the railway’s official website by entering the route and selecting the time.

Capri

Many consider it the most beautiful island in the Mediterranean, and it’s a must-visit when in Naples.

From the port, it’s worth taking the cable car up to Capri town center, to Piazza Umberto. The journey offers wonderful views of the sea.

In Anacapri, you’ll find Villa San Michele. It’s a villa full of ancient artworks, made famous by a book by its former owner, Dr. Axel Munthe. The villa’s garden contains Egyptian and other antiquity-era relics and artworks, such as the Sicilian lamp and the Egyptian sphinx. The garden offers fantastic views of the sea. Information can be found here.

From Anacapri’s town center, a cable car runs to the island’s highest point, Monte Solaro, offering beautiful panoramic views. Schedule and ticket prices can be found here.

One of its main natural attractions is the Grotta Azzurra, the Blue Grotto. It got its name from the light filtering into the cave, creating a beautiful blue hue. Tourists are taken in by small boats.

You can reach Capri by boat from Naples and Sorrento. Schedule and online booking available here.

Ischia

The largest of the islands in the Gulf of Naples, famous for its thermal springs, picturesque beaches, and beautiful landscapes.

One of its most famous attractions is the Aragonese Castle, built on a rocky promontory on the eastern part of the island. An artificial bridge connects it to the mainland. The castle was built by Aragonese rulers in the 15th century and still offers impressive views of the bay and the rest of the island. Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here!

Ischia is world-famous for its thermal waters, fed by volcanic activity. The island offers several famous thermal parks where visitors can relax in therapeutic waters, saunas, and mud treatments. The Poseidon Gardens and Negombo thermal parks are the most popular, but smaller family baths can also be found on the island.

The La Mortella Garden is also worth mentioning. This beautiful botanical garden was created by English composer William Walton and his wife, boasting more than 300 different plant species. The garden has a terraced layout and offers wonderful views of the sea.

Being a volcanic island, most of its beaches are grayish in color. One of the most famous is Maronti Beach on the southern coast, which stretches for several kilometers and is well-developed.

One of its most interesting beaches is Sorgeto Bay, not far from Sant’Angelo. Here, seawater mixes with rising thermal water, creating a pleasant water temperature for swimming. However, you have to climb down and up about 250 steps, so you need to work for this great experience.

It can be reached from Naples by a roughly one-and-a-half-hour boat ride. Most boats go to Ischia Porto (the capital), while some boats run to Casamicciola port. Schedule and ticket purchase available here!

Procida

The island between the mainland and Ischia is less crowded but offers a special experience with its beautiful colorful houses, narrow streets, and idyllic harbors.

The island is only 4 square kilometers, so it can be easily explored on foot. Most people explore the port area, where colorful houses line up next to each other, often shining in pink, yellow, blue, and green colors.

Procida is easily accessible from Naples and Pozzuoli by ferry or fast boat. The ferry journey from Naples takes about an hour, while fast boats reach the island in about 30-40 minutes. Schedule can be found here!

Royal Palace of Caserta

This palace, which is wonderful even by world standards, is unjustly underrepresented among the attractions around Naples!

This was the former residence of the Bourbon kings of Naples. Construction began on January 20, 1752, based on Luigi Vanvitelli’s plans, under the orders of Charles VIII. It was the largest European construction project of the 18th century, completed in 1780 during Ferdinand I’s reign.

The palace is 247 meters long, five stories high, and has more than 1,200 rooms, 34 staircases, and 1,742 windows. Among its interior spaces, the throne room, chapel, and theater are outstanding.

What makes the palace truly amazing is its huge, long garden. Along the 3 km central avenue, there is a series of fountains and pools, fed by water from an artificially created waterfall on the side of Briano hill.

The direct train from Naples stops in front of the park leading to the castle, making it easy to visit.

All information can be found here!

Royal Palace of Caserta: Italy’s Versailles and the Masterpiece of the Bourbons

My experience

Naples, Vesuvius and Pompeii in a long weekend

A Attractions around Naples bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.

After Rome and Milan, it is the third-largest city in Italy. Naples has a rich history and cultural life. It is famous for its folk traditions and cuisine (the birthplace of pizza).

Naples is considered one of the most beautiful places in Italy in every respect, with its slightly chaotic life adding to its charm.

There is so much to see and do around Naples!

Naples attractions

Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral

The cathedral is built on the foundation of an early Christian church, the Basilica of Santa Restituta from the 4th century. The construction of the present church began in the 13th century on the orders of King Charles I of Anjou. In the 17th century, it was remodeled in Baroque style, later receiving a Neo-Gothic facade.

The interior features Domenichino’s altar, the ornate main altar by Francesco Solimena, bronze railings by Cosimo Fanzago, and other masterpieces, frescoes, and a 14th-century French reliquary.

In one of the cathedral’s chapels, the blood relic of Saint Januarius, Naples’ patron saint, is kept in an ampoule. Twice a year, on the first Saturday in May and September 19, this relic is brought out of the church, and the solid blood turns liquid due to movement, which the populace considers a divine miracle.

Entry is free!

Capodimonte Royal Palace and Museum

The former Bourbon palace was the summer residence of the rulers of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.

King Charles VIII built it in 1738 to house the vast Farnese collection. Today, it is the city’s most significant museum and gallery.

The museum is home to masterpieces of Neapolitan and Italian cultural heritage. The first two floors house the National Gallery of Naples, with paintings from the 13th to the 18th centuries, including works by Simone Martini, Titian, Caravaggio, and Botticelli.

The royal apartments feature original 18th-century furniture, tapestries, and porcelains used during the Bourbon and Savoy dynasties.

Accessible by bus (3M, 168, 178) or by trolleybus 204 to the Capodimonte stop.

All information can be found here!

Napoli Sotterranea

Beneath the city lies a vast cave system known as Underground Naples.

Its history dates back more than 2,400 years to the ancient Greeks, who first began extracting tuff stone from the area for building material for Naples.

Over the centuries, this labyrinthine system has served various purposes, including as a reservoir, a shelter during World War II, and even a venue for theatrical performances.

It can be visited on guided tours! All information can be found here!

Decumano Inferiore

This is the most famous street that cuts through the old town. It was once the main street.

It is a remnant of ancient Greek urban planning, which the Romans continued to develop. It still determines the city’s structure today.

Its more popular name is Spaccanapoli (Naples Divider), where old Roman apartment buildings, the insulae, can also be found. The long street features several churches and palaces.

Galleria Umberto I

Similar to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan, this is a passage opposite the San Carlo opera house.

Built between 1887 and 1891, it was a cornerstone of Naples’ reconstruction, which lasted until World War I. The center of the cross-shaped passage is covered by a massive glass dome supported by 16 ribs. The mosaics decorating the floor and the statues and reliefs adorning the walls are particularly noteworthy.

Piazza del Plebiscito

Naples’ main square and largest open space, featuring two remarkable landmarks: the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola.

Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale)

This palace served as a residence for the Bourbon kings.

It was built on the site of an existing palace for the reception of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, though the visit never occurred. In the 18th century, the royal court moved to Caserta, which was deemed more defensible than the coastal city of Naples, leaving the palace uninhabited.

One of its most beautiful features is the grand Baroque double staircase leading to the inner courtyard, decorated with beautiful reliefs. At the base of the stairs, the former Renaissance bronze doors of Castel Nuovo are displayed.

The National Library (Biblioteca Nazionale), located on the second floor, houses valuable collections from formerly separate private libraries.

The palace is connected to the Teatro San Carlo, one of Europe’s largest theaters and one of Italy’s premier opera houses.

All information can be found here!

Church of San Francesco di Paola

Located on the western side of Piazza del Plebiscito, this is one of Naples’ most significant churches.

In the early 19th century, King Joachim Murat of Naples (Napoleon’s brother-in-law) began constructing a large square with colonnades in honor of the French Emperor. After Napoleon’s downfall, the Bourbons regained the Neapolitan throne. Ferdinand IV continued the construction, completing the colonnade in 1816 and converting the central hall into the present church. The church is dedicated to Saint Francis of Paola, who lived in a monastery that once stood on the site in the 16th century.

From both the hill and the square, the church is dominated by a massive dome resembling the Pantheon (53 meters high). The interior also seeks to emulate the Roman Pantheon, with statues decorating the interior. The noteworthy Baroque main altar is adorned with lapis lazuli and jasper.

Church of San Domenico Maggiore

The church has undergone various stylistic transformations, restored to its original Gothic form in the 19th century.

The adjoining monastery housed many historical, religious, and philosophical figures.

The sacristy contains forty-five funerary monuments (coffins covered with precious fabrics) accumulated over the centuries, including the tomb of King Ferdinand I of Naples.

Sansevero Chapel (Cappella Sansevero)

This Baroque chapel was constructed around 1590 when the Sansevero princes built their private chapel near their palace. It also served as their burial site.

Beneath the chapel, there is a room where, according to legend, the prince conducted experiments on his servants. Two of the supposed victims’ preserved bodies are displayed, showing the human musculature on real skeletons.

The chapel boasts three remarkable statues exemplifying late Baroque ornamentation:

• The Veiled Truth by Antonio Corradini, the tomb of Raimondo di Sangro’s mother, Cecilia Gaetani d’Aragona.
• The Veiled Christ, created by Giuseppe Sanmartino in 1753.
• The third statue, Disillusion, by Genoese sculptor Francesco Queirolo, adorns the tomb of Raimondo’s father.

Castel Nuovo

Also known as Maschio Angioino, this is Naples’ most famous building and a symbol of the city. The triumphal arch decorating its gate is the city’s finest Renaissance element.

On the seaward side, beneath the so-called Beverello Bastion, lies the Sala dei Baroni. This large rectangular hall features a star-shaped Gothic ribbed ceiling that spans several stories.

The castle’s only remaining Angevin part is the chapel, from which 147 steps lead up to the Sala dei Baroni.

Entrance is free for those under 18!

Accessible by taking Metro Line 1 to the Municipio stop.

All information can be found here!

Castel dell’Ovo

Compared to the Castel Nuovo, this might not seem as impressive, but the view from the castle’s bastions is very beautiful. It stands on a small peninsula jutting into the sea.

The castle is connected to the mainland by a 100-meter-long causeway, with two bastions at the entrance. The castle itself is rectangular, about 200 meters long and 45 meters wide. Inside the buildings, exhibitions and various events are held. The extension behind the castle was originally used as a harbor. On the southeast side of the castle, there is an impressive round tower.

Entry is free!

Castel Sant’Elmo

Located at the highest point of the city, the fortress and the Saint Martin Monastery stand. The fortress was built in the 14th century and now houses the Bruno Molajoli Museum.

Next to the fortress, on the eastern side, there is a stunning view of the city and Mount Vesuvius. I suggest going up late in the afternoon and staying until it gets dark. You will be treated to a beautiful sight!

Entry is free for those under 18!

Accessible by funicular line 2 from Corso Vittorio Emanuele to Morghen stop; by bus V1 to the fortress.

All information can be found here!

Bourbon Tunnel (Tunnel Borbonico)

This tunnel was built in the 19th century to provide an escape route for King Ferdinand II and his family if needed.

There are several articles related to this because many car wrecks can be found down there.

All information can be found here!

Archaeological Museum (Museo Archeologico Nazionale)

Naples’ most valuable museum, preserving artifacts from the aftermath of Mount Vesuvius’s eruption in 79 AD. Its most famous piece is the Alexander Mosaic, found in Pompeii.

Adults should visit the Gabinetto Secreto, the secret room, which displays ancient erotic art.

All information can be found here!

Santa Chiara

A Neapolitan basilica and church complex that includes the actual church, a monastery, crypts, and a museum.

Another important sight is the cloister, built in the 14th century. In later centuries, its benches and wells were covered with yellow-glazed majolica tiles.

The garden is also very beautiful, filled with various cultivated fruits, vegetables, and trees.

Santa Lucia

If you want to see the real face of Naples, you must visit this neighborhood!

The narrow streets with drying clothes overhead, the loud conversations, and the chaotic traffic all contribute to its authenticity.

L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele

A must-visit for tourists, this is where the best pizza in Italy was made. The place even appeared in a film.

It has two specialties: the margherita and the marinara (tomato and spices).

Toledo Metro Station

Toledo Metro Station, leading to the shopping street, is considered one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world.

The beautiful mosaics adorning the station are the work of Spanish designer Oscar Tusquets Blanca.

My experience

Naples, Vesuvius and Pompeii in a long weekend

A Naples attractions bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.