NAPLES AND THE AMALFI COAST FOR FREE
1.Marina Grande, Sorrento
Sorrento’s Marina Grande harbour is one of the most charming spots in town, with its rows of colourful fishing boats bobbing in the water and multihued homes that were once home to fisherman.
Views over Marina Grande, Sorrento, with Mount Vesuvius on the horizon
2.Castel dell’Ovo, Naples
With a scenic setting on an islet in the Bay of Naples, entrance to the Castel dell’Ovo is free, and everyone in the family will enjoy exploring the castle while taking in the outstanding views (for further details see Castel dell’Ovo).
3.Villa Romana, Minori
For a glimpse of ancient Roman history on the Amalfi Coast, visit the ruins of a wealthy family villa that have been excavated in the heart of Minori.
4.Spaccanapoli, Naples
This narrow main street cuts straight through the historic centre of the city and captures the vibrant atmosphere that is Naples. Enjoy a stroll past fine monuments while visiting free churches like the Gesù Nuovo and San Domenico Maggiore. Today the street is officially named Via Benedetto Croce and moving east it changes to Via S Biagio dei Librai (for further details see Spaccanapoli to Capodimonte).
5.Via Positanesi d’America, Positano
Connecting Positano’s Spiaggia Grande with the more secluded Spiaggia di Fornillo, this cliff-hugging pathway is one of the prettiest walks on the Amalfi Coast.
6.Galleria Umberto I, Naples
The soaring glass roof, Neo- Renaissance designs and marble floors of the Galleria Umberto I make this 19th-century shopping gallery worth seeing for its architecture alone (for further details see Galleria Umberto I).
Galleria Umberto I, Naples
7.Auditorium Oscar Niemeyer, Ravello
Via della Repubblica 12 • 089 85 83 60 This rare example of modern design is named after its creator, Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. While only open for events, its large terrace offers the same outstanding views you would pay to see at the Villa Rufolo nearby.
8.Arco Naturale, Capri
While the price tag of many of Capri’s sights can shock, the natural beauty is as easy on the eyes as it is on the budget. For a beautiful walk, follow signs from the Piazzetta in Capri Town to the Arco Naturale.
Arco Naturale, Capri
9.Duomo, Naples
While there is an admission charge to visit the cathedral’s museum and archaeological area, it is free to visit the soaring nave of the Duomo and the dazzling Cappella di San Gennaro.
10.Villa Comunale, Naples
This 18th-century urban park was designed by Luigi Vanvitelli, the mastermind behind the grandiose Reggia di Caserta. With playgrounds, classic statues and beautiful views, it’s a family friendly spot to while away an afternoon (for further details see Villa Comunale).
TOP 10 MONEY-SAVING TIPS
1. Naples is famous for its street food, which is a delicious way to save money and experience local specialities.
Street food, Naples
2. Visit Naples from October to April (but not Christmas) when low-season rates and discounts will delight the budget-minded traveller.
3. Note that many hotels and restaurants on the Amalfi Coast and Capri close during the winter, however, rates are often lower for the shoulder season October to November and February to March.
4. Most beaches have a spiaggia libera area where you do not have to pay to access the beach.
5. Parking can be exceedingly expensive and limited on the Amalfi Coast, so traveling by public transport is recommended.
6. Save money on visits to many sights in Naples and throughout the region with the Campania Artecard, see www.campaniartecard.it.
7. Take the Circumvesuviana train for an inexpensive way to travel between Naples, Sorrento, Pompeii and Herculaneum.
8. The ferry between Positano and Amalfi is an affordable way to see the beauty of the Amalfi Coast from the sea.
9. Alibus runs a cheap shuttle from the Naples airport to the Napoli Centrale train station and port.
10. Many museums and archaeological sites offer a free open day during the week or month.
