Naples

With piazzas that never seem to end, narrow alleyways that run parallel and perpendicular to each other, a church here and a wine bar there, young, beautiful and energetic locals and a constant celebration known to the world as food, Naples is like a piece of art. And then it is also a maze of cobbled streets that you’d want to get lost in over and over again. If cities could be full of character, Naples would be the epitome of the same. It is a lot like Paris, just less sophisticated and more ingenuous. With a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the form of their Centro Storico, this Italian marvel is a mecca for history and art enthusiasts. The abundance of mouth-watering Pizza Marinara and Pizza Margherita proves that it also is a culinary paradise. Naples has its happy side and also has a morose one. This is one Italian destination that could easily be personified considering the number of emotions it possesses and evokes.

When in Naples, it would be almost blasphemous to miss out on Giuseppe Sanmartino's Cristo Velato (Veiled Christ) at the Cappella Sansevero. The marble veil draped over Jesus is almost palpable; it is so intricate and realistic. Additionally, the brilliantly preserved, albeit macabre, human arterial systems housed in the lower floors of the chapel are also worth looking at. Photography unfortunately is forbidden.

Top tip:
Naples, despite all the charm is a breeding ground for pickpockets so it is absolutely imperative for you to be wary. While you’re in the city, take some time out and dine at this crowded yet popular pizzeria called Gino Sorbillo. The number of pizzas on the menu is limited but every one of them is delectable when washed down with their house wine. You are expected to order quickly and there is no practice of tipping. While it may seem like an Indian Udipi joint, the experience and the food is worth everything.

Getting there:
InterCity and Regionale trains originate from Rome and get you to Naples in roughly an hour. Booking in advance is a wise decision and if in case you are on the Regionale train, which does not require reservations and is cheaper, (11 Euros) you need to validate your ticket at the station.