Hotel San Francesco Al Monte

A santuary in a chaotic city

Arrived early to a warm reception in advance of room being available, not a problem, our bags and valuables were looked after and we were provided with both map and directions to explore the city. Returned later to an excellent room with our bags and coats awaiting us. Hotel restaurent was excellent, panoramic view and good food. Our request for the waiter to select a local wine resulted in good quality at the low cost end of the wine list. We found Naples chaotic but fun, the hotel became our sanctuary, the staff welcoming and charming.

Traveller's tip on local attractions

We took a train to Pompei, when we arrived we made the mistake and entered through the nearest entrance to the station. Being October the ruins were not busy (a plus) but that meant that there were no tour guides (or indeed tour books)availanle at what turned out to be a minor entrance. Better to walk around perimeter (another 500 metres) to the main entrance which although busier was closer to the main attractions and guides and guide books were readily available

A delightful relic in need of some fresh paint

This hotel is remarkable and intriguing as it retains a lot of character from its distant past evident in its many cell-like rooms that although comfortable are in need of decorative rennovation and better sound insulation. On arrival we were shown a room where plaster from the ceiling had fallen in the bath. We were immediately offered another room that was fine but the receptionist did admit later that two other rooms were also found to be in a similar condition. Windows are small but offer grand views over the city and harbour. The swimming pool and terrace area are havens on a hot summer day but the pool bar closes at 4.30pm which is too early. Food in the restaurant is excellent, but very expensive and getting a simple snack is impossible. Service from the staff is friendly and polite. Special mention must go to receptionist Guido who answered all our questions about the area and even recommended us to his grandmother’s favourite trattoria. If you don’t have access to a car then getting around requires. Overall, the hotel is very worth the stay if only for being a one-off in design as well as character, but if you’re looking for modern reliability and convenience, try something closer to the port area.

Make sure you have 1.10€ in change for a 1-way ticket on the fernicular as 2€ coins are not accepted.

hotel fine disappointed with conditoin of Naples i e graffiti and street cleanliness

fine hotel great views of bay of naples only criticism lack of no draw space in our room so lived out of suitcases but despite that would have no problems recommending this hotel