There are few better excuses for a spontaneous city break than pizza, especially when the destination happens to be Naples, the birthplace of the world’s most famous comfort food.
From East Midlands Airport, you can be wandering the city’s bustling streets by Friday evening, thanks to regular Friday departures with both TUI and Jet2. And with September widely regarded as one of the best times to visit, there’s plenty of reason to go now.
The month brings warm, sunny days averaging between 18C and 27C, sea temperatures that are still perfect for a swim and one of Naples’ most important annual celebrations. On 19 September, the city honours its patron saint during the Festa di San Gennaro, a lively mix of religious processions, street festivities and Neapolitan traditions that spill out across the historic centre.
Beyond its legendary pizza, Naples is one of Italy’s most fascinating cities. Beneath the streets lies a vast network of ancient tunnels and catacombs, while above ground you’ll find dramatic coastal views, grand piazzas and a wonderfully chaotic energy that feels unlike anywhere else in the country.
The city is also the gateway to some of southern Italy’s most iconic sights. Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius are an easy day trip away, while the National Archaeological Museum houses one of the world’s finest collections of Roman artefacts, including many recovered from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
And if you’re keen to start the holiday early, East Midlands Airport’s newest restaurant, Terracotta, brings a taste of the Mediterranean before you’ve even boarded. The Italian-inspired eatery is one of several recent additions designed to improve the passenger experience, alongside an upgraded security area, children’s play space, quiet room and refurbished facilities.
For an even smoother start to your trip, the airport’s Meet & Greet service now includes self-service key drop-off and collection points, helping travellers avoid the queues and head straight for departures.
Find flights and plan your trip via the East Midlands Airport website.
