When asked what he loves about Naples, Giorgio Berti, a Christie’s International Real Estate affiliate and broker for Rome Exclusive, looks horrified and says this question would put any Neapolitan into crisis. “I would proudly answer ‘everything’,” he says. “I love the sea, and thanks to the mild climate, I can enjoy it all year round. Then there’s the historic center of Naples, which reminds me of the city’s Greek and Roman origins, not to mention culture in every palace, museum, and church. And then there’s the hilly districts of Posillipo and Vomero, which offer the privilege of living in the city and a holiday resort at the same time.”
Galleria Umberto I in Naples; Photo: © Werner Mäder, Uetikon
From our own experiences we can only confirm what was recently reported in the online magazine Luxury Defined by Christie’s International Real Estate. This city and its surroundings are indeed fascinating, in many places still authentic Italy and, apart from a few exceptions, much less overrun with tourists than other cities. In addition, the nearby unique Amalfi Coast offers wonderful nature experiences and unforgettable views over the sea. But beware: this area is totally overcrowded in summer.
Dawn over the Amalfi Coast; Photo: © Werner Mäder, Uetikon
Luxury Defined continues in its article: “Naples is Southern Italy’s largest city with art, architecture, and famous basil-topped pizzas for visitors and locals alike to enjoy. Orginally called Neapolis (new city) when it was founded in the sixth century BC, Berti recommends starting with some history by visiting Basilica di San Domenico Maggiore, built between 1283 and 1324, whose gothic façade hides an ornate interior. One of Naples’ hidden treasures, the Church of Santa Chiara is also worth seeking out and features a cloister described by visitors as breathtaking.
Wall advertising with air conditioning in Naples’ streets; Photo: © Werner Mäder, Uetikon
For more historic architecture, head to The Royal Palace. Built when Naples was under Spanish rule in the 1600s, Palazzo Reale features a theater, a chapel, the national library, and royal apartments. If you’re an opera fan, the San Carlo theater, founded in 1737, hosts opera, ballet, and concert performances. Or, if shopping is of interest, visit the Umberto 1 Gallery, which is located opposite the theater. Built between 1887 and 1890, it has an impressive glass ceiling and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site listing.
Where to Eat and Drink in Naples
Naples is also known for food and whether you need breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there are plenty of options. Berti does not hesitate to name Michelin-starred Palazzo Petrucci as one of the best restaurants in the city. “In addition to the mainly fish-based cuisine, the restaurant enjoys a magnificent view of the Gulf of Naples,” he says. Sharing the same view from a panoramic terrace is nearby Rosiello restaurant, which Berti describes as “timeless.”
Tripe shop in Naples; Photo: © Werner Mäder, Uetikon
Once you’ve had time to digest your food and the views, there are plenty of museums and art galleries to see. Berti recommends the National Archaeological Museum, which includes Greek and Roman sculptures, along with items from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Naples by Night; Photo: © Werner Mäder, Uetikon
There’s also the Capodimonte museum with its collection of porcelain plus paintings, tapestries, prints, and a large collection of armory. Finally, don’t miss the Sansevero Chapel Museum, which, among many masterpieces, includes the famous sculpture of the Veiled Christ. For art galleries, Berti recommends Lia Rumma and Studio Trisorio.
Property Market Insight
After visiting this vibrant city, some decide to invest in their own slice of Naples. According to Berti, buyers can be divided into three categories. “First, there are those looking for a house in the city who also want the holiday resort feeling. They opt for the Posillipo district, which offers seafront properties with views of the Gulf of Naples and Pozzuoli. Second, those who prefer the convenience of services and the charm of the Naples seafront choose the Chiaia and Vomero districts. Finally, buyers fascinated by history who want to live in a 16th-century palace choose the historic center, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.”
The Sentiero degli Dei leads along Amalfi’s steep coast; Photo: © Werner Mäder, Uetikon
Berti reports that the Naples property market is currently experiencing a strong recovery following the challenging conditions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Looking ahead, he predicts a consistent growth trend of around 5 percent each year for the next few years. Perhaps now’s the right time to consider a property of your own in Naples.
Lonely beach on the Amalfi Coast, Photo: © Werner Mäder, Uetikon
So, if you are interested in investing in exclusive properties in and around this fascinating city, you will find these buyable properties, among others, in Luxury Defined’s article:
Villa on the Island of Capri
The first floor of this villa consists of five double bedrooms, all with en-suites, and two outdoor patios. The second level has three double bedrooms and a single bedroom, each with a bathroom. There’s also a large terrace.
Splendid 19th-Century Villa in Via Posillipo
![Set in peaceful surroundings but only a short distance from the city center, this 19th-century villa is some 16,145 square feet [1,500 sq m]. in size plus it has a large terrace. It also features 12 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms.](https://www.christiesrealestate.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/RESUZED-VILLA-NAPLES-DSC00444.jpg)
Set in peaceful surroundings but only a short distance from the city center, this 19th-century villa is some 16,145 square feet [1,500 sq m]. in size plus it has a large terrace. It also features 12 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms.
Impressive Villa in Grifeo Park
![This impressive villa is spread over three floors covering a total of 14,000 square feet [1,300 sq m]. There’s also a second building, which is 7,000 square feet [650 sq m], plus a garden, courtyard, and private road.](https://www.christiesrealestate.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/RESIZED-DSC00899.jpg)
This impressive villa is spread over three floors covering a total of 14,000 square feet [1,300 sq m]. There’s also a second building, which is 7,000 square feet [650 sq m], plus a garden, courtyard, and private road.
