The southern Italian city of Naples is one of Italy’s most famous and beloved. Combining modern grittiness with old-school charm, the unapologetically chaotic city is wrapped around the Bay of Naples and backdropped by Mount Vesuvius, a historically active volcano that was famously responsible for burying the affluent ancient Roman city Pompeii during an eruption in 79 A.D.
America Domani has compiled a brief list of the city’s best rooftop bars and restaurants, each of which offers dazzling panoramic views, delicious cocktails, and gourmet local and regional dishes.
Grand Hotel Parker’s
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This five-star hotel is located in a statuesque 19th-century building steps away from the city’s harbor. Its rooftop terrace and bar are dedicated to the classy and iconic spy James Bond and boast plush velvet armchairs and floor-to-ceiling windows that can slide open to access a terrace decorated with ornate lamp posts shaped as women. It's one of the most elegant rooftop bars the city has to offer, and as such has a smart casual dress code. The terrace is open to both hotel guests and the general public looking to sip on a handcrafted cocktail with a panoramic view of Mount Vesuvius, the city, and the Gulf of Naples. Reservations are recommended.
Vesuvio Roof Bar & Restaurant by “UNA Cucina”
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This elegant bar and restaurant offers a menu of traditional Neapolitan and Italian dishes that change based on seasonal ingredients. The terrace is decorated with simple, white cloth tables, trees and succulents, and comfortable outdoor lounge furniture. With a stunning view of downtown Naples backdropped by the imposing shadow of Mount Vesuvius, this casual yet upscale establishment is a great pick for those looking to escape the noise and chaos of the city and enjoy an al fresco meal or cocktail at sunset.
Romeo Hotel Naples
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Positioned right by the Port of Naples, this five-star hotel has a rooftop pool terrace surrounded by loungers as well as a gourmet rooftop restaurant. While the pool is only available to hotel guests, the Michelin-starred restaurant, called Il Comandante, is open to all. It offers a 360-degree view of the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the island of Capri for those seeking an elevated, gourmet dining experience.
Asia London Palomba
Asia London Palomba is a trilingual freelance journalist from Rome, Italy. In the past, her work on culture, travel, and history has been published in The Boston Globe, Atlas Obscura, The Christian Science Monitor, and Grub Street, New York Magazine's food section. In her free time, Asia enjoys traveling home to Italy to spend time with family and friends, drinking Hugo Spritzes, and making her nonna's homemade cavatelli.