The historic city centre is what differentiates Naples from many other Italian cities. The narrow, medieval streets are not perhaps unique but the sheer scale and edginess of parts of this area may make it the Naples that sticks in your memory.
The Spaccanapoli and Via Tribunali that form the east-west pedestrian spine of the district are where most visitors head for, and with good reason. This area is very much visitor orientated with much of the marketing activity aimed at the tourist market.
You only have to walk a short distance beyond the tourist areas and the Cathedral for instance to see a different side to Naples. In areas it can look and feel a bit edgy.
If going beyond the guide book view of Naples and immersing yourself in the native culture of the city is your preference, this is probably the place to look for your accommodation.
There is a surprising range of hotel accommodation in the city centre including small family bed and breakfast accommodation. Perhaps the only class of hotel missing is the very large 4/5 star chain hotel that would be very much out of character with the district. It is common for accommodation to just take one storey of a larger building with shared entrances.
Nearly all accommodation is to the south and west of the historic district closest to the Spaccanapoli and business areas of Naples.
In terms of numbers, the majority of visitors do not stay in the historic centre; the most popular hotel districts being around Central Station and along the waterfront. However the niche is there for people who want to be in the very heart of the real centre of Naples.
Central Station hotels are well suited for budget accommodation and are convenient for sightseeing and transport. Hotels down at the waterfront of Naples tend to be more upmarket/expensive and are sited in the most elegant area of Naples and are very convenient also for people on cruises.
The airport bus also serves both Central Station and the Ferry/Cruise terminal but not the historic centre.
Set in the historic centre of Naples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, next to Federico II University. It offers colourful rooms with free Wi-Fi, and is a 10-min walk from Dante Metro. Air-conditioned rooms at the Europeo include free satellite TV. The private bathroom has a hairdryer and free toiletries. Breakfast available for a small fee (can be taken in room).
Rooms: Single, double & family rooms for up to 5
Location: By Spaccanapoli and 300m to Santa Chiara Church
Just a 3-min walk from the beginning of Spaccanapoli street in the old historic centre of Naples. Air conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, minibar and flat-screen TV. They feature an en suite bathroom with toiletries, a hairdryer and a shower. Some rooms overlook Santa Chiara Monastery, while others have city views. Breakfast available for a small fee (can be taken in room).
Rooms: Single, double & triple rooms & apartments for up to 5
Location: By Spaccanapoli and close to Santa Chiara Church
Located in a quiet courtyard in the centre of Naples, close to the train station and San Gennaro Cathedral. Via Duomo, one of the city's many great shopping streets is close by. An elegant restored building with modern amenities. Free Wi-Fi. Breakfast included (can be taken in room). Massages and balcony. Paid parking, 24-hr front desk, bar.
Rooms: Double/twin, triple & quad rooms
Location: The Duomo 50m, Spaccanapoli 400m
Located in the heart of Naples historic centre. All rooms are air-conditioned and feature antique furniture, free Wi-Fi and TV with Sky channels. Luxurious lounge, decorated with golden stuccoes and 18th-century mirrors. Reception is open 24 hours. Breakfast included in room rate.
Rooms: Single, double/twin, triple & quad rooms
Location: Off Spaccanapoli