Gay Naples Naples City Guide

Curation by Yasmina Rodríguez, words by Ian Packham

Naples has it all – layer upon layer of history, dedicated fashionistas cruising on Vespas through sun-drenched piazzas, simple but sublime cuisine, and, of course, UNESCO certification as the birthplace of pizza. Italy’s third-largest city has come a long way from its staunchly Catholic traditions. Since 1996, Napoli Pride has been the party to end all parties, and same-sex couples do not faze younger Neapolitans. That said, outside of areas known for flying the rainbow flag, public demonstrations of affection between men is still rare and could raise the eyebrow of the odd passing nonna. For everything you want to know about the city, check out Mr Hudson’s Naples gay travel guide.

The best hotels in Naples

Naples rewards those who choose their base wisely. In the refined Chiaia district — the city’s most polished neighbourhood, all boutique-lined promenades and aperitivo terraces — Grand Hotel Parker‘s blends 19th-century grandeur with a contemporary sensibility. High ceilings, antique floors and carefully curated furnishings speak of a property utterly at ease with its own legacy. The Bibber Bar is a civilised address for a late-night Negroni, while the Michelin-starred restaurant George, helmed by Chef Domenico Candela, offers two-star cuisine alongside bay views of spectacular unfairness. Rooms are spacious and impeccably appointed, with sweeping vistas over the Neapolitan rooftops.

Grand Hotel Parker

For those who prefer their Italian sojourn delivered with a harder edge, Romeo Napoli occupies a striking position opposite the ferry terminal for Capri and Ischia. All glass, steel and museum-quality contemporary art, the hotel carries its architectural boldness through to its interior, where rich woods and Tramontano leather lend warmth to sleek guest rooms. The rooftop pool commands panoramic views across the bay and towards Vesuvius; the complimentary 1,000m² spa — hot tubs, saunas, well-equipped gym — seals the proposition.

For something altogether more intimate, De Bonart Naples — formerly The Britannique — presents a reimagined vision of mid-century boutique luxury on the leafy Corso Vittorio Emanuele. The atmosphere is suave and unhurried, the service discreet, and the rooftop terrace delivers a sweeping panorama that encompasses the bay, Vesuvius and the ochre jumble of the city below — spectacular at golden hour and utterly transformed by night.