With its dazzling waterfront under the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, Naples is a glorious treasure trove of art, architecture, and scenic abundance. A stroll through the city’s winding streets 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&Bs to grand architectural splendors. I have handpicked my favorite fabulous and unusual hotels in Naples, Italy, in no particular order)…
The Britannique Hotel Naples
Staying here was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that constantly exceeded expectations. This brand-new luxury concept elevates hospitality and excellence, evoking maximum comfort through top-of-the-range services and bespoke design.
I felt the Neapolitan spirit in every space on the property, which blended seamlessly with a genuine Mediterranean warmth. Vibrant colors, precious details, and striking features grace the guestrooms, 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.
Pros
Interior is designed by modern Italian artists
Outdoor swimming pool and sea views
Food is prepared with only local fresh products
Ideal lodging spot for art lovers
Cons
Location of the hotel is quite far from the city center
Bathrooms are a bit puny
Hotel Paradiso
Located on the famous hill of Posillipo and overlooking the incredible 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.
Pros
Romantic dining
Stunning sea views
Elegant and trendy ambiance
Cons
Not ideal for budget-conscious travelers
Payment in dollars is not accepted
Romeo Hotel
Here, we have an oasis of contemporary style set in the port area of the city that brings visitors an abundance of facilities and eating options.
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 organize boat trips and private tours and given first-rate advice on the best nearby eateries.
Pros
Situated in Naples' harbor district
Organised boat trips
Visually appealing views
Stunning rooftop pool overlooking Naples Harbour
Cons
Swimming pool relatively small.
Some noise
Grand Hotel Vesuvio
Flaunting a majestic setting overlooking the Castel dell’Ovo, Grand Hotel Vesuvio invites guests into a discreetly luxurious atmosphere on the newly pedestrianized 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 has 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.
Pros
Prime waterfront location
Mid-19th century interior
Rooftop bar and swimming pool
Relaxing Echia Spa
Cons
It's not budget-friendly
Old Europe style might not suit everyone
MGallery Palazzo Caracciolo
Home to a spa, a fine dining establishment, and a charming courtyard, this enchanting property brings you to the edge of the historic center, 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 center stage, and quirky motifs ooze a graceful ambiance. My room had functional décor, tiled floors, white walls, and Baroque 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.
Pros
Spa for relaxation
Charming courtyard
Dedication to experimental art
Great city location
Cons
Potential noise problems
Limited outdoor space
Costantinopoli 104
Here, we have a nature-inspired haven in 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 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.
Pros
Stunning mix of antiques and modern decor
Presence of a private garden pool
Central location in Naples
Cons
Limited Modern Amenities
Pet Policy
MareLuna Rooms
The ambiance 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 coziness.
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.
Pros
Proximity to the glorious shoreline
Modern and improved atmosphere after revamp
Wooden interior with a touch of elegance
Cons
Distant from the city center
Little natural light
La Ciliegina Lifestyle Hotel
Born from the idea of transforming a historic house into a true oasis of beauty, this unique, eco-conscious hotel overlooks the Piazza Municipio. It is set only 300 meters 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.
The breakfast was exemplary each day and consisted of a vast selection of fresh organic products. There is also a solarium with a Jacuzzi, designed to pamper guests with moments of pure relaxation after an action-packed day.
Pros
Situated in a central location
Complimentary MacBook and iPad for the guests
The solarium and Jacuzzi add to the relaxation
Gorgeous unique design
Cons
Limited entertainment
Service can be slow
Hotel Matilde
Experience the warmth and elegance typical of Neapolitan hospitality at this tiny jewel in the city’s center. Hotel Matilde draws inspiration from Matilde Serao, one of the most prominent female figures in the Italian literary scene between the 19th and 20th centuries.
The hotel is enclosed within the walls of the magnificent Galleria Umberto I and exudes a skillful balance between history and modernity. Its supreme location makes reaching Napoli’s prominent landmarks and restaurants possible.
I found the buffet breakfast to be a lavish affair, served in an intimate and cozy room and graced by the distinctive aromas and flavors of the region.
Pros
A perfect balance of modern and historic atmosphere
Situated in a distinctive location
Superb breakfast
Views of Galleria Umberto
Cons
Limited on-site facilities such as a gym and spa
Noise from the nearby metro
B&B Lex Room Santa Lucia
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 that bring a historic radiance to the interiors.
I was as fascinated by the framed pictures in the hallways as by the stunning vistas of the eclectic town from my streetside balcony.
Pros
Bespoke artwork interior
A perfect mix of trendy and modest style
Historic radiance
Stunning views of the town and monuments
Cons
Bustling streets can be a bit noisy
A little small
Casa Valeria
Nestled in the hilly area of Vomero, Casa Valeria is housed in an elegant building, and I felt an authentic 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 bring to light the iridescent artwork and graceful antiques. The property is clad head-to-toe in unique décor, bringing together the essence of hip, trendy, and wealthy.
Pros
Inviting family atmosphere
Artful and visually appealing ambiance
Stunning views of the hills
Free breakfast
Cons
Street traffic can be a little noisy
Get books up
Serendipity
As the name suggests, this hip Bed and breakfast is all about those surprises you encounter while traveling. Inviting the discerning jet setter to seek refuge from the bustling metropolis, Serendipity is decorated with soft lights and minimalist furnishings thatexude a ‘sophisticated industrialstyle.
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 could 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 center, as well as vibrant neighborhoods full of cafés, restaurants, and bars.
Pros
This hotel provides a getaway from hectic city life
Monochrome aesthetic with vintage artwork
Proximity to many historical sights
Exploration Convenience
Cons
Limited Amenities
Not uber-luxurious
Daily Napoli
Daily Napoli puts you a few steps from the Neapolitan seafront yet close to the city center. 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, cozy, vibrant, and colorful. The entire property is blessed with a bespoke, modern style while still embodying the city’s historic charm.
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.
Pros
Unique quirky wall art
Aesthetic vibrant and colorful environment
The Neapolitan seafront adds scenic beauty
Cons
Coastal noise issues
Pedestrian congestion due to the location
Relais Della Porta
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 refined antiquity, as noble materials dress the interiors with an opulent charm. The rooms are elegant and frescoed and cater to couples and business travelers, and larger family rooms are available.
A few steps from the hotel lands you on a quaint street where you will find yourself immersed in the city’s beauty, with many boutiques and artisan cafés waiting to be visited.
Pros
Opulent Interior made up of noble materials
Proximity to local attractions
16th-century architecture
Family rooms
Cons
Can get booked up
Breakfast menu is limited
Relais Castel Nuovo
During my stay at Relais Castel Nuovo, I was blessed with the true essence of Neapolitan hospitality, with all that the city offers at my fingertips.
The Municipio Metro Station was 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 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.
Pros
Many historical landmarks are only 200 meters away
White-washed interior aesthetic
Guests will experience an authentic Neapolitan feeling
Cons
Towels need an upgrade
Busy road outside
Ranking of the Best Hotels in Naples
In the table below, we have ranked the top 15 cool and unusual hotels in Naples.
Hotel Name Location Price Range (per night) Fitness facilities Distance to Attractions (km) Nearby Restaurants
The Britannique Hotel Naples, Curio Collection By Hilton Corso Vittorio Emanuele 133 $549-$2094 Yes 1.6 1
BW Signature Collection Hotel Paradiso Via Catullo 11 $138-$147 No 2.8 3
Romeo Hotel Via Cristoforo Colombo 45 $677-$3210 Yes 0,95 1
Grand Hotel Vesuvio Via Partenope 45 $502-$692 Yes 2.2 1
MGallery Palazzo Caracciolo Napoli Via Carbonara 111/112 $217-510 Yes 0.9 3
Costantinopoli 104 Via S. Maria Di Costantinopoli 104, $393-$287 No 1.0 1
MareLuna Rooms 168 Corso Vittorio Emanuele $173-$281 No 1.1 1
La Ciliegina Lifestyle Hotel Via Paolo Emilio Imbriani 30 $201 No 1.1 3
Hotel Matilde Piazzetta Matilde Serao 7 $242-$310 No 1.1 3
B&B Lex Room Santa Lucia 143 Via Santa Lucia Scala B - 3° piano $340-$389 No 2.1 1
Casa Valeria Viale Michelangelo 48 $136-$149 No 1.6 2
Serendipity Piazza Garibaldi 39 Scala A 2°Piano $144-$157 No 1.3 2
Daily Napoli Via Chiatamone 6 $138 No 1.1 1
Relais Della Porta Via Toledo 368 $296-$315 No 0.8 3
Relais Castel Nuovo Piazza Municipio 84 -- No 0.85 2
Scott Balaam – writer and photographer
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, Australia, Ireland, UK and the USA but his spiritual home will always be Rome as this is the city which most satisfies his unrelenting thirst for culture, good food and great football. In his spare time Scott loves nothing better than to be behind the camera and also runs his own blog and Instagram page. He also counts Melbourne, the rest of Italy, Amsterdam, USA, Athens, Cape Town and Tel Aviv among his favourite places. Find Scott on Linkedin, Instagram, or Twitter.
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