With its dazzling waterfront under the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, Naples is a resplendent treasure trove of art, architecture, and scenic abundance. A stroll through the winding streets of the city brings to light a relic of times gone by, and invites you to marvel at the grandeur of soul-stirring landmarks.
Not only is Naples steeped in historical charm, but its surrounding majesty, delicious cuisine, vibrant music scene, and super friendly locals make it the perfect city break for culture, urban, and nature enthusiasts.
Naples boasts a hospitality circuit like no other, and during my many trips I have stayed in accommodations ranging from quaint boutique B&B’s to grand architectural splendours. Here, I have handpicked my favourite cool and unusual hotels in Naples, Italy in no particular order)…
1. The Britannique Hotel Naples, Curio Collection By Hilton – a lavish, trendy and Instagrammable hotel perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs
Staying here was a once-in-a-lifetime experience which constantly exceeded expectations. This brand-new luxury concepttakes hospitality and excellence to new heights, evoking maximum comfort through top-of-the-range services and bespoke design.
I felt the Neapolitan spirit in every space in the property, which blended seamlessly with a true Mediterranean warmth. Vibrant colours, precious details, and many striking features grace the guestrooms, which are enriched with works by the best contemporary Italian artists.
At The Britannique, food is more than an experience – it is a ritual upheld by the utmost dedication and passion, combining centuries-old traditions with the freshest local products.
2. BW Signature Collection Hotel Paradiso – a chic, bright and idyllic hotel where guests can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view overlooking the landscape
Located on the famous hill of Posillipo and overlooking the wonderful gulf of Naples, Hotel Paradiso welcomes guests to a unique, timelessly elegant experience.
The living rooms are all decorated with Vietri majolica tiles, and the outdoor hangout spots offer an idyllic place to relax after a day in the cheerful city. I relished one of the most enchanting sunsets I have ever witnessed, during golden hour on the terrace.
Up here, the restaurant delivers a menu with the beautiful aromas of Mediterranean cuisine, skilfully presented in a modern and refined atmosphere. Further on-site amenities include a new Solarium with a swimming pool and a blissful spa.
3. Romeo hotel – a stylish, sleek and 5-star hotel where guests can experience fine dining at the on-site Michelin star awarded restaurant
Here we have an oasis of contemporary style set in the port area of the city, and brings an abundance of facilities and eating options to visitors.
Antiques and works from the owner’s art collection are sprinkled around the open-plan ground-floor public spaces, competing with a handful of water features to create a vibrant mix of styles. I thoroughly enjoyed the sleek, Michelin-starred Il Comandante Restaurant on the 10th floor, where a creative flair has been used to add an innovative twist to traditional Napoli dishes.
I was also conveniently assisted in my plans to organise boat trips and private tours, and given first-rate advice on the best nearby eateries.
To book, check prices or availability for Romeo hotel
4. Grand Hotel Vesuvio – an elegant, spacious and upscale hotel featuring a spa and wellness center which includes a hot tub, sauna and steam bath
Flaunting a majestic setting overlooking the Castel dell’Ovo, Grand Hotel Vesuvio invites guests into a discreetly luxurious atmosphere on the newly pedestrianised Santa Lucia waterfront.
Hidden behind a post-war façade, this mid-19th-century building is adorned with marble hallways graced by potted palms, oriental rugs, and lit by vast Murano chandeliers. I certainly felt an air of old-world elegance here, yet this is distinctly contrasted in the 10th-floor Sky Lounge, which comes with a sleek solarium and exudes refined modernity.
Another draw to the hotel is the Echia spa and the Casuro restaurant which boasts a lavish setting and serves delicious Italian food.
5. MGallery Palazzo Caracciolo Napoli – Hotel Collection – a fancy, contemporary and historic hotel filled with architectural character
Home to a spa, a fine dining establishment, and a charming courtyard, this enchanting property brings you to edge of the historic centre, with Napoli’s famous landmarks all reachable within a 15-minute walk.
Set around a 15th -century cloistered stone courtyard, the hotel is a character-filled space where experimental artwork takes centre stage and quirky motifs ooze a graceful ambiance. My room came with functional décor, tiled floors, white walls, and Baroque coffered ceilings.
Returning from a tiring day exploring the city, it was amazing to be treated to an exquisite Italian meal at the on-site restaurant, accompanied by a comprehensive range of Italian wines.
6. Costantinopoli 104 – a unique, quirky-chic and stylish accommodation surrounded by local popular attractions
Here we have a nature-inspired havenin the heart of Naples, exemplifying a profound passion for art and design. The historic origins of this old mansion sparkle in every corner, with antique pieces standing in harmony with contemporary artwork.
As you enter through the façade embellished with coats of arms and friezes, you are greeted by an elegant marble staircase connecting the two floors, displaying a distinct Art Nouveau style.
My bedroom featured neoclassical stucco and wrought-iron beds, and clearly embodied a tradition of aristocratic hospitality. The private garden pool was the source of precious moments during my stay and offered unparalleled peace in the heart of a bustling city.
7. MareLuna Rooms – a pet-friendly, newly renovated and trendy B&B within walking distance of Mappatella Beach
The ambience of the historic building that houses this intimate B&B owes as much to the beautiful Neapolitan traditions as it does to its blissful sense of cosiness.
Set close to a gorgeous shoreline in Corse Vittorio Emanuele, a head-to-toe revamp in 2022 has caused this tranquil abode to twinkle with luxury, enhanced with the elegant rattan elements and graceful boutique décor.
Each room is themed individually – Mine had a wall dressed in green plants exuding a resplendent aesthetic. The comforts were top-notch, from the plush linens to the soft wooden hues to the intimate display of vivid artwork.
To book, check prices or availability for MareLuna Rooms
8. La Ciliegina Lifestyle Hotel – one of the first boutique accommodations offering guests an eco-friendly, upscale and bright stay
Born from the idea of transforming a historic house into a true oasis of beauty, this unique eco-conscious hotel overlooks the Piazza Municipio and is set only 300 metres from the main port.
The guestrooms are spacious and equipped with tech-forward amenities, and the hotel also offers a MacBook and iPad for those who don’t want to bring their own devices.
Each day, the breakfast was exemplary, and consisted of a vast selection of fresh organic products. There is also a solarium with Jacuzzi, designed to pamper guests with moments of pure relaxation after an action-packed day.
9. Hotel Matilde – Lifestyle Hotel – a modern, elegant and sleek accommodation located in the heart of the city
Experience the warmth and elegance typical of Neapolitan hospitality at this small jewelin the centre of the city. Hotel Matilde draws inspiration from Matilde Serao, one of the most prominent female figures in the Italian literacy scene between the 19th and 20th centuries. The hotel is enclosed within the walls of the magnificent Galleria Umberto I, and exudes a skilful balance between history and modernity. Its supreme location makes it possible to reach Napoli’s main landmarks and restaurants. I found the buffet breakfast to be a lavish affair, served in an intimate and cosy room and graced by the distinctive aromas and flavours of the region.
10. B&B Lex Room Santa Lucia – an industrial-style, unique and creative B&B neighbouring the historic Castel dell’Ovo
Set next door to the islet fortress ‘Ovo Castle’ and a 5-minute walk from Basilica di Santa Lucia a Mare, this modish B&B exudes eccentricity and flamboyancy in every nook and cranny.
The rooms boast bespoke flower paintings on the walls, which pair elegantly with the pink curtains and vivid tapestries. The bathrooms, in contrast, are minimalist by nature, and feature opulent tiled floors. The corridors blend hip with boutique, topped with antique pieces which bring a historic radiance to the interiors.
I was as fascinated by the framed pictures in the hallways as I was by the stunning vistas of the eclectic town from my streetside balcony.
11. Casa Valeria – a contemporary, vibrant and rustic-chic accommodation situated on the famous Vomero hill
Nestled in the hilly area of Vomero, Casa Valeria is housed in an elegant building, and I felt a true family atmosphere during my weekend visit.
I thought the living room was the most idyllic space to spend a peaceful afternoon reading, listening to music, or enjoying a Neapolitan coffee. The carefully chosen fabrics have taken inspiration from all angles of the globe, and are pieced together to create a cosy aesthetic.
The white-washed walls and large windows afford a bright and spacious feel, and really bring to light the iridescent artwork and graceful antiques. The property is clad head-to-toe in unique décor that brings together the essences of hip, trendy, and opulent.
To book, check prices or availability for Casa Valeria
12. Serendipity – a cool, design and hip boutique B&B steps away from a variety of shopping boutiques and the city’s hidden treasures
As the name suggests, this hip Bed & Breakfast is all about those surprise moments that you encounter while travelling. Inviting the discerning jetsetter to seek refuge from the bustling metropolis, Serendipity is decorated with soft lights and minimalist furnishings which exude a ‘sophisticated industrial’ style.
Draped in monochrome tones and vintage artwork, yet embellished with a functional flair, this boutique house hosts a tranquil communal nook where the positioning of the tables and chairs echoes a quaint bistro setting. Here, I was able to embrace moments of pure relaxation accompanied by a cup of Neapolitan coffee and local sweets.
Owing to the residence’s strategic position, within a few steps you can reach the ancient streets of the historic centre, as well as vibrant neighbourhoods full of cafés, restaurants, and bars.
To book, check prices or availability for Serendipity
13. Daily Napoli – Lungomare – a hip, vibrant and quirky B&B offering guests a buffet, a la carte or Italian breakfast each morning
Daily Napoli puts you a few steps from the Neapolitan seafront yet close to the city centre. All the rooms were designed to exude total relaxation, and are equipped with a satellite TV and a luxury bathroom.
Here, quirky wall art and boutique décor exemplify the hotel’s charm – intimate and cosy yet vibrant and colourful. The entire property is blessed with a bespoke, modern style, while still embodying the historic charm of the city.
There is a handful of communal nooks, adorned with soft wooden hues and comfy seating areas. A standout feature for me was the daily breakfast, which combines the essence of Neapolitan cuisine with an international flair.
14. Relais Della Porta – a petite, historic and charming accommodation moments away from an array of landmarks
Located inside a historic building dating back to the 16th century, Relais Della Porta was once the residence of a famous Italian philosopher and scientist, Gianbattista Della Porta.
The feeling inside is one of refined antiquity, as noble materials dress the interiors with an opulent charm. The rooms are elegant and frescoed, and cater to couples, business travellers, and there are also larger family rooms available.
A few steps from the hotel lands you on a quaint street where you will find yourself immersed in the beauty of the city, with many boutiques and artisan cafés waiting to be visited.
15. Relais Castel Nuovo – a spacious, modern and well equipped accommodation in an ideal location for exploring around the city
During my stay at Relais Castel Nuovo I was blessed with the true essence of Neapolitan hospitality, with all that the city has to offer at my fingertips.
The Municipio Metro Station was located a 2-minute walk away, while the Beverllo Pier and the Maschio Angioino were reachable within a peaceful 200-metre stroll.
This stunning residential property offers apartments equipped with charming balconies or spacious terraces overlooking the dazzling sea. Each one boasts its very own seating area, dining area, and fully stocked kitchen. The white-washed interior aesthetic gleams with elegance, and is embellished with locally inspired artwork and quirky industrial décor.
Scott started his travelling life back in 1999, when he headed off on a solo jaunt to South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia with just a backpack, a camera and a spirit for adventure. After that, the travel bug bit hard and now he is always seeking to head off somewhere new. Over the years he has lived in Italy, Qatar, Ireland, UK and the US but his spiritual home will always be Rome as this is the city which most satisfies his unrelenting craving for culture, good food and great football. Scott loves nothing better than to be behind the camera and also runs his own blog and Instagram page. He also counts Melbourne, Cape Town and Tel Aviv among his favourite places. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @scottbalaam
