Cap Nap
SEPTEMBER 17TH, 2009
Cap Nap
While close in proximity to each other, the Italian cities of Naples and Capri are a lesson in contrasts. We delightfully dabbled in both the gritty and the grandeur.
stay
Located a few hundred paces from the bustling Naples train station, the UNA Hotel is conveniently located and a little oasis in the midst of the city's madness. In soothing shades of green and beech, rooms are quiet and serene. Make sure you don't miss the bountiful breakfast at the hotel's own rooftop café, complete with views of downtown. From €89, Piazza Garibaldo, 9-10, Naples, +39-081-5636901, www.unahotels.it
drink
Located on the small Megaride island alongside the grand Castel dell'Ovo and a bevy of other outdoor cafés, Le Bar is the coolest of the bunch for a good cocktail, conversation and even hooka if you have the hankering. The drink list is long, the crowd young and trendy, the atmosphere cool and relaxed. Le Bar, Via Eldorado, 7, Naples, +39-081-7645722.
shop
In the morning, head for the docks and board a hydrofoil to Capri where shopping is an otherworldly experience. For the sandal-obsessed, a visit to L'Arte del Sandalo Caprese is a must. Cobbler Antonio Viva has been making them for decades. Sophia Loren and Jackie O are a couple of his former clients. Via Orlando, 75, Anacapri, +39-081-8373583, www.sandalocaprese.it
eat
With the money you saved skipping the overnight stay at a pricey hillside hotel, treat yourself to some of the best cuisine on Capri. The family-owned Aurora restaurant is known for its Mediterranean cuisine and high-profile celebrity friends. Order “pacchero,” a pasta dish of parmesan and zucchini flowers, and you'll go home very happy. Aurora, Via Fuorlovado, 18-22, Capri, +39-081-8370181, www.auroracapri.com