Welcome to Chiaia, the Napoli neighborhood known as the salotto (living room) for its beautiful style, relaxed elegance and seaside location. While Naples is famous for its pizza, Chiaia offers a different look at the city. If you have 48 hours to explore southern Italy’s most dynamic area, this is the perfect itinerary for taking in a weekend of art, indulgence and modern Neapolitan charm.
Day One
There’s no better place to anchor your stay than the luxurious Grand Hotel Parker’s. “Chiaia was originally the seaside retreat for Naples’ elite,” says Giovanni Torre Avallone, owner of Grand Hotel Parker’s, whose impeccably tailored style perfectly reflects the neighborhood’s flair. “By the mid-18th century, it evolved into the city’s cultural heart, with stunning theaters, cafes and boutiques. Here, you’ll find some of the most beautiful architecture showcasing centuries of Neapolitan history and the world’s finest tailors.” And Avallone should know—he dons a custom Neapolitan suit daily, and his family has called Chiaia home for more than a century.
Perched on Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Grand Hotel Parker’s embodies Neapolitan elegance. With impeccable concierge service, a blend of Empire-style antiques, contemporary design (including pieces from the Avallone family’s collection) and stunning harbor views, it’s the perfect setting for an elegant escape.
Once settled in your sea-view suite, venture down to Via delle Mille and Via Chiaia, where historic streets are lined with high-end boutiques, art galleries, artisan shops and bustling cafés. Walk to Gambrinus, one of Italy’s oldest coffee houses, for an authentic taste of city life—whether seated or standing at the bar.
Next, indulge in one of Naples’ most revered traditions: bespoke tailoring. Via Chiaia hosts some of the world’s most renowned tailor shops. Avallone, the fourth-generation owner of Parker’s, recommends Sartoria Peluso and E. Marinella (for ties) and the legendary Mariano Rubinacci. For prêt-à-porter with a sartorial edge, visit The Secrets. And if you’re really short on time, Avallone can arrange a custom fitting at Parker’s with these master tailors.
As the day winds down, stroll along Lungomare Caracciolo, a scenic promenade offering breathtaking views. For dinner, Avallone suggests Osteria Pignatelli, where seasonal ingredients and refined flavors take center stage, or head to 50Kalo by award-winning pizzaiolo Ciro Salvo for what many claim is the world’s best pizza.
Cap off your evening with drinks on Parker’s Rooftop or, if the weather is less than perfect, slip into L’Antiquario, an art nouveau-inspired speakeasy by acclaimed mixologist Alex Frezza.
Day Two
Your second day in Chiaia is dedicated to immersing yourself in the city’s rich cultural scene, with three must-visit spots. Begin at the Thomas Dane Gallery, a contemporary art space that brings a slice of London’s avant-garde spirit to the heart of Naples. Set within a historic palazzo, the gallery’s rotating exhibitions of modern works are as captivating as the stunning views of the bay they overlook.
The Palazzo delle Arti Napoli (PAN), a cultural hub nestled within a grand historic building, is a short walk away. PAN showcases Naples’ vibrant artistic community, offering diverse exhibitions spanning painting, sculpture, photography and digital art. (Editor’s note: PAN has been closed for a few months and, at press time, there wasn’t any official word on when it would reopen.)
Pause for a break in genuine Italian style at Pasticceria Mennella, where a flaky sfogliatella (a shell-shaped pastry) and a rich espresso will recharge you before your next stop: Villa Pignatelli. This 19th-century villa provides a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Neapolitan nobility, with its lavishly decorated rooms, period furniture and impressive collection of fine art.
Next, make the short trip over to Galleria Borbonica, where you’ll find the 1,738-foot-long Bourbon Tunnel. Designed to serve as a military escape route, this engineering marvel later served as a bomb shelter and emergency hospital during World War II. Exploring its atmospheric passageways today offers a unique perspective on the city’s layered history.
Before the sun sets, head back up to Grand Hotel Parker’s rooftop terrace. The panoramic views are stunning, and the drinks are always shaken, not stirred. Avallone, a devoted Ian Fleming fan, has curated the bar as a tribute to James Bond, featuring a menu with more than 200 martinis inspired by the iconic character. Avallone’s top pick is the lemon-tinged Vesper.
With twinkling city lights and the majestic silhouette of Mount Vesuvius as your backdrop, conclude the eventful weekend with a meal at Grand Hotel Parker’s stellar George Restaurant. Here, elevated dining meets the flavors of Southern Italy through dishes such as Italian pigeon breast marinated with chili bean sauce, strawberry-grape juice and cloves that celebrate Naples’ rich culinary heritage while adding a contemporary twist.
