The world capital of good food? It's Naples (according to the Americans)

Time Out, the renowned London travel magazine, recently published the ranking of the best food and wine cities in the world, and Naples took first place. This ranking celebrates Naples not only for the extraordinary quality of its cuisine, but also for the affordability that makes its delicious dishes available to all. The magazine underlined how pizza, a UNESCO intangible heritage, is the epitome of Neapolitan cuisine, with its portfolio daisies that can be enjoyed for just one euro in the heart of the historic center.

Naples is a city that offers an incredible variety of cultural and historical experiences. The historic center, with its narrow alleys and picturesque squares, is a labyrinth of history and traditions. The scents and lively noises of the Pignasecca market are a unique sensorial experience. Being amazed in front of the monumental staircase of the Royal Palace of Naples is a journey into historical grandeur. Being enchanted by listening to an opera at the Teatro San Carlo, the first opera house in Europe, is an immersion in musical culture. Getting lost in the joy and colors of the alleys of the Quartieri Spagnoli and della Sanità reveals the authentic Neapolitan spirit. Extricating yourself from the mysteries of Underground Naples and the esotericism of the San Severo Chapel, to the point of being stunned and incredulous in front of the marble statue of the Veiled Christ, is a journey that fascinates and surprises at every step. A visit to the National Archaeological Museum is inevitable, hosting one of the richest collections in the world of finds from the Roman era, while the Capodimonte Museum offers a vast range of works of art, from Renaissance masters to contemporaries. But the city is also famous for its cultural events, from concerts to theatrical performances, passing through the incomparable performances of street artists who make every visit a truly unique experience.

Neapolitans do not eat, but at the table they live a true experience of love with food. Eating here represents a profound expression of love and identity. Taking a bite of some of the typical Neapolitan gastronomic specialties for the first time is one of those moments and moments of mystical experience, which will create indelible memories in your mind. Neapolitan pizza, recognized as an intangible heritage of humanity by UNESCO, is the culinary symbol of the city. Historic pizzerias like Da Michele and Sorbillo have become pilgrimages for pizza lovers from all over the world. But Naples is not just pizza (baked or fried). Neapolitan cuisine offers a variety of traditional dishes such as Genovese, Neapolitan ragù, pasta and potatoes with provola, pasta and beechnuts with mussels, aubergine parmigiana. Naples also offers those with a sweet tooth a vast array of exquisite desserts including pastiera, Sfogliatella, Fiocco di neve and Baba with rum. These dishes reflect the cultural richness and history of the city, influenced by Greek, Roman, French and Spanish dominations.

A fundamental element that contributes to the charm of Naples is the welcome and friendliness of its inhabitants. Neapolitans are known for their friendliness and lively spirit, which makes every visit special. Whether you are visiting a local market like Pignasecca, or simply strolling along Lungomare Caracciolo, interacting with locals adds invaluable value to the experience. Their passion for life and their hospitality are palpable and make Naples an unforgettable destination.

The complete ranking of the best cities for food 2024 according to Time Out sees: