Naples and Its Sweet Soul

Naples is not only about pizza and coffee: it is also the undisputed capital of Italian pastry. From rum-soaked babà to fragrant sfogliatelle and lemon delights, walking through the city means discovering true temples of sweetness.
If you want to avoid tourist traps and explore the bakeries loved by locals, here are 5 authentic pastry shops in Naples you can’t miss.

1. Scaturchio – The Classic Babà

Founded in 1905, Scaturchio is one of the oldest pastry shops in Naples. Their babà, perfectly soaked in rum, is a city icon. Don’t miss the “ministeriale”, a historic praline made with cocoa and liqueur, invented right here.

2. Sfogliatella Mary – The Queen of Galleria Umberto I

Tiny, always crowded, and filled with the irresistible scent of sugar and cinnamon. The sfogliatella riccia is crunchy and golden, while the frolla is soft and delicate. You simply can’t leave without trying both.

3. Carraturo – The Oldest Sfogliatella in Naples

Since 1837, Carraturo has been a historic bakery near Porta Capuana. More than a pastry shop, it’s a piece of Neapolitan history. Their sfogliatelle are still handmade with paper-thin pastry and the freshest ricotta.

4. Pintauro – The Sfogliatella Legend

Tradition says that Pintauro was the very place that made sfogliatella famous worldwide. A tiny shop on Via Toledo, it’s a must for anyone seeking authentic flavors—worth every minute of the queue outside.

5. Bellavia – Innovation and Tradition Since 1925

A historic name that today combines tradition with creativity. Try their lemon delight and chocolate caprese cake, perfect examples of Neapolitan pastry with a modern twist.

Where to Stay in Naples After a Sweet Tour

After a day exploring the alleys, colors, and flavors of Naples, nothing is better than unwinding in a Dimora d’Epoca. From historic palaces to boutique hotels, you’ll find authentic hospitality and timeless charm to make your stay unforgettable.

👉 Discover our selected properties on Dimore d’Epoca and experience Naples with both sweet delights and charming nights.

Looking for the perfect romantic weekend getaway near Milan? Nestled between the gentle hills of Franciacorta and the sparkling waters of Lake Iseo, L’Araba Fenice is a charming historic hotel that offers elegance, peace, and unforgettable views—just over an hour from Milan.

🌸 A Historic Residence Full of Charm and Atmosphere

L’Araba Fenice, originally a 19th-century lakeside villa, has been beautifully restored and now welcomes guests as a refined 4-star superior hotel. Every detail tells a story—from antique furnishings and parquet floors to panoramic windows that open directly onto the lake.

The hotel is named after the mythical phoenix, symbol of rebirth—just like this historic residence that has come back to life in all its former glory.

🚤 What to Do on Lake Iseo During Your Weekend

A romantic escape to Lake Iseo is more than just relaxing—it’s a chance to experience authentic Italy. Here are some activities to enjoy as a couple:

• Sail to Monte Isola, the largest car-free lake island in Europe, perfect for a peaceful walk through picturesque villages.

• Enjoy a wine tasting in Franciacorta, Italy’s sparkling wine region, just minutes away from the hotel.

• Explore charming towns like Iseo and Lovere, with cobbled streets, lakeside promenades, and artisan shops.

• Take a bike ride or walk along the Greenway, a scenic route hugging the lake’s edge.

👉 Book your romantic weekend on Lake Iseo now: Discover L’Araba Fenice 

🏨 L’Araba Fenice: Your Romantic Lakeside Retreat

Staying at L’Araba Fenice means indulging in luxury and serenity:

• Elegant rooms with lake views and period details.

• A panoramic outdoor pool.

• Gourmet dining at the Bella Iseo restaurant, directly over the water.

Whether it’s an anniversary, surprise gift, or just a well-deserved break, this is a place designed for romance.

👉 Book your romantic weekend on Lake Iseo now: Discover L’Araba Fenice 

❓Frequently Asked Questions

📅 When is the best time to visit Lake Iseo?
Between April and October, with ideal weather and lush surroundings.

🚗 Is the hotel easy to reach from Milan?
Yes, it’s about 90 minutes by car. Private parking is available.

🍷 Can I book a wine tasting nearby?
Absolutely. The Franciacorta region is famous for its sparkling wines and guided tastings.

🐾 Are pets allowed?
Yes, upon request and under certain conditions.

👉 Book your romantic weekend on Lake Iseo now: Discover L’Araba Fenice 

🍕 Rome & Pizza: A Timeless Love Story

When in Rome, do as the Romans do—and that means eating pizza. But forget thick crusts or overloaded cheese. Roman pizza is a thing of its own: thin, crispy, and packed with bold local flavors. Whether it’s the classic “pizza al taglio” sold by weight or gourmet creations with surprising ingredients, pizza in Rome is more than food—it’s a ritual.

Here's our curated list of five must-try pizza spots in the Eternal City—and where to stay for an unforgettable Italian experience.

1. Seu Pizza Illuminati (Trastevere)

A true revolution in pizza. Daniele Seu transforms classic recipes into modern art, combining long-fermented dough with unexpected toppings like burrata, pistachio cream, or marinated anchovies.
Why go: For a gourmet experience that redefines what pizza can be.

2. Emma Pizzeria (Campo de’ Fiori)

A beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Their dough is light and crunchy, topped with high-quality ingredients like buffalo mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes.
Why go: Centrally located, elegant, and always delicious—ideal after a walk through Piazza Navona.

3. Casa Manco (Testaccio Market)

This hidden gem inside the Testaccio food market serves pizza al taglio (square slices sold by weight) with creative seasonal toppings.
Why go: Great for a quick, flavorful bite between sightseeing and one of the best-value pizzas in town.

4. Piccolo Buco (Trevi Fountain area)

Tiny, cozy, and often with a line—because the pizza is worth the wait. A hybrid between Roman and Neapolitan style, with a chewy crust and bold flavors.
Why go: The perfect pizza near Rome’s most famous fountain.

5. Trapizzino (Various Locations)

Not exactly a traditional pizza, but a Roman street food icon: pizza dough folded into a triangle and filled with classics like chicken cacciatore or eggplant parmesan.
Why go: A fun and tasty twist that locals love, ideal as a snack on the go.

🏛 Complete Your Experience: Sleep in a Historic Dimora

After indulging in the best pizza Rome has to offer, treat yourself to a night in a Dimora d’Epoca—a handpicked collection of historic villas, castles, and boutique hotels across Italy.

✨ Imagine waking up in a 17th-century palace…
🍷 Or sipping wine on a terrace with views of ancient rooftops…
🌙 Your Roman holiday deserves a setting just as unforgettable as its flavors.

Timeless charm, unforgettable flavors, and stories at every corner

Rome isn't just a destination — it's a feeling. A city where every stone tells a story, every piazza invites you to slow down, and every bite tastes like tradition. Whether you’re dreaming of romantic views or craving culture and cuisine, here are five unforgettable experiences for a truly magical Roman escape.

1. SunSET at the Colosseum & Rooftop Breakfast Overlooking the Eternal City

There’s something truly magical about seeing the Colosseum at sunrise — the light is soft, the crowds haven’t arrived, and the city feels like it’s all yours. After a peaceful walk through the Roman Forum, treat yourself to a unique breakfast with a view.

☕ Where to go: Book a table at the Aroma Restaurant on the rooftop of Palazzo Manfredi. From here, you’ll have one of the most breathtaking views of the Colosseum, paired with impeccable service and refined dishes. It’s a five-star start to your Roman adventure.

👉 Explore all our Roman stays on www.dimoredepoca.it

2. Dinner under the Stars in Trastevere

Trastevere is Rome at its most charming — flower-filled balconies, music in the streets, and that irresistible smell of fresh pasta. After a stroll along the Tiber, settle down in one of the city’s most beloved restaurants.

🍝 Where to eat: Tonnarello – A local favorite known for its generous portions, vibrant atmosphere, and signature Roman dishes like carbonara and amatriciana. Try to grab an outdoor table and enjoy dinner surrounded by the buzz of Trastevere.

👉 Explore all our Roman stays on www.dimoredepoca.it

 

3. Night Visit to the Vatican – Sacred Silence and Art Beyond Words

By day, the Vatican Museums are filled with crowds. But by night — during special evening openings — everything changes. The galleries fall silent, the lights soften, and you can truly take in the masterpieces without distractions.

Imagine standing alone in the Sistine Chapel, staring up at Michelangelo’s Last Judgment, in complete stillness. The experience is not just about art — it's about awe, intimacy, and a connection to centuries of devotion. Book in advance, and prepare to be moved.

 

4. Hidden Rome: The Underground Aqueduct Beneath Piazza del Popolo

Rome’s wonders don’t end at street level. Beneath Piazza del Popolo lies a stretch of the ancient Aqua Virgo aqueduct — still functioning after over 2,000 years. It’s a remarkable piece of engineering history, and few visitors even know it exists.

🔍 How to visit: Step inside the Leonardo da Vinci Museum near the square. Among the inventions and interactive exhibits, you’ll find a transparent floor revealing the flowing aqueduct below — an unexpected glimpse into ancient Roman infrastructure.

 

5. Cook & Taste Like a Roman – A Homegrown Culinary Experience

There’s no better way to understand Rome than through its food. Take a few hours to dive into the city's culinary soul: shop for fresh ingredients at a local market, learn how to prepare a classic Roman pasta dish, and enjoy the result with a good glass of wine.

🍷 Whether it’s a private class, a food tour through Campo de’ Fiori, or a hands-on experience in a family-run kitchen, you’ll gain more than recipes — you’ll take home flavors, stories, and memories. And yes, making your own tiramisù in Rome? It hits differently.

 

Rome is more than just monuments — it’s also about where you rest. For a truly immersive experience, choose a Dimora d’Epoca, a collection of charming boutique hotels, palazzi, and historic villas offering warmth, style, and a sense of place.

 

👉 Explore all our Roman stays on www.dimoredepoca.it

👉 Contact us for a personalized getaway