hiki08

Hi, would anyone have experience or knowledge about spending 31 Dec and 1 Jan in and around Naples? I've read before that the New Year celebrations in Naples is quite spectacular (fireworks and all? not so much as drinking). I am also eager to plan a day trip to Capri (as well as another day to Pompeii). Would anyone have advice on where to go where sights are open on those 2 days?

At the moment I think Pompeii is closed 1 Jan so I have scheduled it for 30 December. I am then thinking spending 31 Dec in Naples and 1 Jan at Capri. I also understand the funicular is closed in Capri as is the boat roads to see the Blue Grotto, but I'm more excited about seeing the coastline at Capri (I won't have time for the Amalfi Coast, but intend to head to Cinque Terre). Are there other things to look out for on these 2 days where I fear many businesses and attractions might close? Also, should a trip to Capri be cancelled if it rains that day?

I will be in Naples from midday 29 December to early morning of 2nd January.

Many many thanks!! I'm in a kind of a rush having just finished exams and needing to plan the whole 2 week trip in a day or two (while still needing to head out to buy some basics before the trip) so some of these might be silly questions..

goldenautumn

If it is windy or rainy I don't think you will find Capri very enjoyable. I believe that in winter the hydrofoils don't necessarily run, which means you will be on a much rockier ferry boat, and you might not enjoy that at all. So if it is sunny and without wind, Capri might be pretty (but cold). Otherwise, you will find many churches in Naples are open that day, and the city never completely shuts down, so I don't think you will be completely bored if you can't go to Capri.

Even on ordinary days of the year Naples is quite a chaotic city and on New Year's Eve things can get even more riotous. The nighttime fireworks are the most spectacular in all of Italy. Many people head up into the hills to get a good view of them rather than the battle the crowds at the port. Maybe you should consult with your hotel about a nice place to see the fireworks. If you have any money to spend, there are some rooftop bars, like the one in San Francesco al Monte in Vomero, that might be a nice place to be. Again, try asking your hotel for help.

You need to have an excellent guide book for Naples and the area.

goldenautumn

I meant to add that if you arriving mid-day on the 29th to Naples, go first to the archeological museum, that same day. It stays open until 7pm. If it is pouring rain on the 30th, Pompei will be difficult. You might prefer instead the Certosa di San Martino or the Capodimonte, and then you can go to Pompei the next day hopefully.

mamcalice

When we were on Capri a couple of years ago in September, the owners of our hotel told us they close the end of November and don't open again until Easter. Many hotels and restaurants on Capri do the same for winter. It isn't always pleasant to visit a summer resort in the middle of winter. While much will be closed you can probably find some things open. I'd stick to Naples and environs.

hiki08

Thanks for the replies! I'll be staying at a hotel close to Universita station near Toledo.. I think it's close to port..? Are the fireworks at the bay, viewable from the port? Hopefully the hotel staff will be helpful, will find out when we arrive

I did read that the fireworks at Naples are the most spectacular so I scheduled my NYE to be in Naples, so I do hope to see it (safely)!

I'll try and do a bit more research to see how favourable is Capri, and what other things I'd like to see in Naples if Capri is cancelled.

I am also interested in Paestum down south but so far think it's too much in too little time..