The Corridors: Volcanic Italy, from Vesuvius to Etna, via Stromboli and Vulcano

Naples lives with overwhelming energy, stretched along one of the world's most famous bays with Vesuvius as its backdrop. The historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of alleys hung with laundry, lined with baroque churches, votive shrines and artisan workshops. Spaccanapoli cuts the city in a straight line between the cathedral, keeper of the blood of San Gennaro, and the chapels of the Pio Monte della Misericordia with their Caravaggios. Beneath the streets lies a subterranean Naples of cisterns and tunnels, while the National Archaeological Museum holds the treasures of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Along the sea, the Caracciolo promenade, Castel dell'Ovo and the Chiaia district offer elegant strolls. Pizza was born here, and Neapolitan cuisine — sfogliatelle, babà, fried street food — is pure joy. From Vomero, reached by funicular, the city unfolds in a breathtaking panorama. Chaotic and theatrical, Naples seduces with its unfiltered authenticity.

Stromboli is the most active volcano in Europe, a black cone rising from the sea in the Aeolian Islands and erupting at regular intervals, offering a spectacle unique in the world. The island, without paved roads, lives in a primordial atmosphere: the white houses of the village huddle at the foot of the smoking mountain, threaded by narrow lanes and silence. Guided excursions to the panoramic heights allow visitors to witness the explosions, while the Sciara del Fuoco shows the lava flows descending to the sea. The black beach of Ficogrande and the deep waters invite swimming. At sunset, arriving by boat before the volcano is unforgettable. Primordial and powerful, Stromboli fascinates those seeking the pure force of nature.

Vulcano is the Aeolian island closest to Sicily, with a character strongly tied to its geothermal origin, which gave its name to all the volcanoes in the world. On arrival, one notices the smell of sulphur from the fumaroles and the famous thermal muds, visited for their curative properties. The climb to the Gran Cratere grants a spectacular view over the archipelago and the chance to look into the smoking crater. The black beaches, such as the Sabbie Nere, and the warm bubbling waters complete the experience. The boat tour reveals coves and the famous natural arch. Surreal and fascinating, Vulcano offers total immersion in the geothermal nature of the Aeolians.

Catania rises at the foot of Etna, a lively and frank city built with the black lava stone that gives it a unique character. Rebuilt in baroque style after earthquakes, it shows its most scenic face in Via Etnea and Piazza del Duomo, with the cathedral and the famous Elephant Fountain, the city's symbol. The Pescheria, one of Italy's most striking fish markets, is an explosion of colours, voices and aromas. The Roman Theatre and baroque palaces testify to thousand-year-old layers. Catania is also a university city with intense nightlife and an ideal base for excursions on Etna. The cuisine offers pasta alla Norma, granitas and arancini. Energetic and rebellious, Catania fascinates with its vitality and its bond with the volcano.