Independent travel and view of the city of Kaserta! History of the city of Caserta Ancient Roots: From the Sam...
Ancient Roots: From the Samnites to the Romans
The territory where Kaserta now stands was inhabited by Osko-Samnite tribes in ancient times. Already in the era of Rome, there was a settlement called Casa Irta (translated from Latin – “house-village on the hill”), from which over time the modern name Caserta originated.
Middle Ages: the emergence of Casertavecchia and defensive fortifications
In the early Middle Ages (IX century), the region was inhabited by a people, and urban life centered around a protective tower built by the Lombards, a Germanic tribe that dominated after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. This tower became the nucleus of the new settlement, and the old center - Casertavecchia - was higher on the hill.
Casertavecchia is an old medieval town that was the original core of the region. It was an important administrative and religious center with a cathedral and narrow streets that retained the influence of Norman architecture.
The feudal age and dynasties
In the late Middle Ages, Caserta passed from hand to hand by various noble families:
For a long time, the property was controlled by Della Ratta.
Aquaviva, which has strengthened the development of the region,
Later it passed to the Kaetani family, after which the city experienced decline.
The Royal Transformation: The Bourbon Age
A turning point in the history of Caserta was the purchase of land by Charles VII (Kingdom of the Bourbons) in 1750. He decided to build a new royal palace here, which in scale and grandeur was to rival the French Versailles.
Construction and development
The chief architect was appointed Luigi Vanvittel – one of the largest court architects of that era.
Construction began in 1752, and the palace was designed not only as a residential complex, but also as the administrative heart of the future city.
The project included a huge palace, park, fountains, park alleys and even a sewer and water system (Carolino Aqueduct).
The new town around the palace was conceived as Caserta Nuova ("New Caserta"), with regular street layouts, wide avenues and modern Enlightenment ideas.
The realized complex became one of the largest palace and local buildings in Europe of the XVII-XVIII centuries.
San Leuchio: The Experimental Royal Community
In 1789, Ferdinand IV, son of Charles III, created the San Leuchio complex in the vicinity of Caserta, an experimental community and a silk factory. Here he tried to realize the idea of social equality and self-sufficiency, where crafts and industry developed in a single space with the housing of the working elite. Today, you can visit this place and learn about the early philosophical social projects of the XVIII century.
XIX century and the unification of Italy
In the XIX century, the city was influenced by the Italian Risorgimento movement for the unification of Italy. In its vicinity took place the Battle of Volturno (1860), where the troops of Giuseppe Garibaldi fought with Neapolitan troops. This was an important stage in the unification of the peninsula under a single Italian kingdom.
World War II and Caserta
During World War II, Caserta Palace served as the Allied headquarters – occupied by the Supreme Allied Commander – and here the act of surrender of German troops in Italy was signed on April 29, 1945.
Modernity: City and Heritage
After the war, Caserta was rebuilt and gradually became an important provincial center of the Campania with industry, agriculture and cultural life. The city has preserved historical squares, museum and religious monuments, and a modern urban center has grown around the palace.
Main attraction: Reggia di Caserta
The Royal Bourbon Palace is one of the largest palaces in Europe, modeled after Versailles, with more than 1,200 rooms, a theater, a chapel and grand halls for solemn receptions.
Parks and fountains are a long English and French parks with fountains, waterfalls and alleys where you can enjoy a walk, a photo and a picnic in the fresh air.
The Caroline Aqueduct is a unique engineering structure of the XVIII century, part of the royal complex.
Medieval Heritage: Casertavecchia
The old town on the hill - Casertavecchia, with narrow streets, an ancient church and fortress, creates a sense of time travel.
Here you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills, taste local dishes in authentic trattorias and feel the atmosphere of medieval Italy.
Gastronomic paradise
Caserta is famous for traditional Campanian cuisine: pasta with truffles, prosciutto, cheeses of the region, fresh vegetables and seafood.
Many cafes and restaurants offer authentic meals at moderate prices, while Casertavecchia offers cozy family trattorias with homemade pasta and wine.
Cultural life and activities
Summer concerts, theatrical performances in the palace theater and folk music festivals make Caserta a lively city where every season is filled with events.
Pretoria Square and the main streets of the city center come to life in the evening: street musicians, fairs and shops are open until late at night.
Shopping and gifts
The boutiques and shops on the main shopping street offer local produce, clothing, handicrafts and souvenirs including olive oil, liqueurs, sweets and ceramics.
Casertavecchia and the surrounding villages are famous for handcrafted goods that will be a unique gift to friends and family.
Nature and surroundings
Caserta is surrounded by green hills and mountains, ideal for hiking, cycling and nature watching.
Just a few kilometers away are the coast of the Bay of Naples and the picturesque resort towns of Campania.
1. High level hotels (comfortable and comfortable)
If you want maximum comfort, stylish interiors and full service, here are some great options:
Classic and popular hotels
Grand Hotel Vanvitelli is an elegant hotel with a high rating and a lot of guest reviews. A great option for those who appreciate spacious rooms and service at the level.
Hotel dei Cavalieri Caserta - La Reggia is a stylish hotel right in the city center, next to the main attractions and historic streets.
Villa Maria Cristina is a cozy hotel with good reviews, suitable for family holidays.
2. Comfortable and stylish options (medium level)
These places are often a little cheaper, but still very pleasant to live in:
Royal Caserta is a popular hotel with a convenient location and good value for money.
Al Centro Luxury Home - stylish rooms with a modern design, ideal for couples or small families.
Cas'E Charming House Caserta is a cozy hotel-guest house with a pleasant atmosphere and excellent reviews.
Titti Artistic B&B is a stylish B&B with coziness and attention to detail.
3. Budget options and economic accommodation
If a convenient and inexpensive base is important, Caserta offers many excellent economic options:
B&B Tartaglione is a very friendly B&B at an affordable price.
B&B REVOLUTION BED & BREAKFAST is a budget option with excellent reviews.
Vanvitelli Home is a simple home with a good rating for budget travelers.
Little Sweet Escape is a very cheap B&B, a good choice if your budget is tight.
Hotel Bruman is an inexpensive hotel option with basic amenities.
Also among the budget and inexpensive places of residence you can find similar apartments and apartments in the center - for example, Sorelle Costa apartments or OMÍ Aparthotel - this is an excellent option for those who plan to live independently with a kitchen and personal space.
4. Apartments and accommodation in private houses
For those who prefer not a hotel, but independent housing, there are many apartments and apartments in Caserta:
Residenza La Reggia is an excellent apartment with high ratings.
Rooms & Apartment A due passi - cozy rooms in the apartment right in the center.
1. Royal Palace of Caserta (Reggia di Caserta)
Description: One of the largest palaces in Europe, built by order of the Bourbons in the XVIII century, with more than 1,200 rooms, a theater, a chapel, reception halls, parks and fountains.
What to see: Grand Courtyard, Royal Apartments, Theatre Royale, Fountains of Diana and Apollo, Vanvitelli Falls, English Park and alleys.
Transport:
On foot: convenient for those who live in the center of Caserta.
Bus: local transport lines from the city center and the station.
Taxis: A quick option, especially with luggage.
Parking: available for tourists in the palace and near the park.
2. Casertavecchia (Old Town)
A medieval town on a hill, the original center of Caserta. Preserved narrow streets, the cathedral of the XII century, fortifications and ancient squares.
What to see: The cathedral, viewing platforms with panoramic views of modern Caserta, old houses and small authentic cafes.
Transport:
Walking: from the central area - about 30-40 minutes of ascent.
Bus: There are lines going to the foot of the hill from where you can climb on foot.
Car / taxi: a convenient option for tourists with children or heavy luggage.
3. Royal Palace Park
Description: A huge park of about 120 hectares with fountains, waterfalls, canals and alleys connecting the palace with the surrounding nature.
What to see: Fountains of Diana and Apollo, the Great Vanvitelli Cascade, botanical corners and walkways.
Transport: Walking from the palace or using bicycles and electric scooters, which can be rented in the center.
4. San Leucio (San Leucio)
The historical complex of the silk factory and the royal settlement of the Bourbons. Silk fabrics were created here, and the community itself was an experiment in the social organization of the XVIII century.
What to see: Factory buildings, workshops, silk museum and historical streets of the complex.
Transport:
Bus from Caserta (about 15-20 minutes).
A private car or taxi is more convenient for tourists, especially with children.
Walking: only if you want to walk through the historic area (from Casertavecchia or the nearest quarters).
5. Cathedral of Caserta (Cattedrale di Caserta)
The main Catholic cathedral of the city, with architecture of the XVIII century and beautiful interiors.
What to see: Altars, frescoes, organ and relics of the cathedral.
Transport: Walking from any central area of the city.
6. Main squares and streets of the city
Viale Carlo III and Piazza Vanvitelli are central streets and squares with shops, cafes, restaurants and street musicians.
What to see: local shops, souvenir shops, cafes and evening walks.
Transport: fully accessible on foot, by bicycle or on a short taxi ride.
Transport accessibility of the city
Railway service:
Caserta is connected to Naples and Salerno via the main railway station (Caserta Stazione). Trains to Naples take about 40 minutes.
Bus:
Local lines take tourists to Casertavecchia, San Leuchio and major parks.
Taxi and car rental:
Taxis can be called through apps or in parking lots.
Renting a car is convenient for trips to the surroundings and the coast.
On foot and bicycle:
The historic center is compact, most attractions are accessible on foot.
Bicycles and electric scooters are often rented for walks in the palace park and the city center.
Spring season (March - May)
Spring in Caserta is a time of revitalization of the city and cultural events.
Easter holidays (Pasqua): colorful processions, fairs and concerts at historic sites.
Festivals of flowers and gardens: open tours of the parks of the Royal Palace, exhibitions of floristics and ornamental plants.
Excursions in Casertavecchia: the ancient city comes to life after a winter lull - cafes, craft shops are opened, master classes are held.
Summer season (June - August)
Summer is a period of active entertainment and tourist activities:
Summer concerts and opera performances on the territory of the palace and in open theater venues.
Folk festivals and cultural events: music, dances, street performances.
Gastronomic fairs: tasting local delicacies, wine, olive oil and sweets.
Evening fountain shows in the palace parks are a popular spectacle for tourists of all ages.
Autumn season (September - November)
Autumn is a time of cultural festivals and gastronomic holidays:
Harvest festivals: tasting wines, olive oil, cheese and traditional dishes of the region.
Crafts and souvenir fairs: handicrafts, ceramics, textiles and art products.
Concerts of classical and contemporary music at the Royal Palace and local theatres.
Excursions and historical reconstructions in Casertavecchia are an opportunity to see the life of the medieval city.
Winter season (December – February)
Winter in Caserta is a festive and cultural atmosphere.
Christmas markets (Natale): decorated squares, festive lights, souvenirs and traditional sweets.
Carnival events: processions, costume performances, street celebrations in February.
Exhibitions, concerts and theatrical productions in museums, palaces and city cultural centers.
Historical master classes and festivals: an opportunity to get acquainted with the traditions of silk farming in San Leuchio.
Year-round developments
Theatrical performances and musical concerts at the Teatro Comunale di Caserta and the palace.
The historical festivals in Casertavecchia are master classes, craft fairs and reconstructions of medieval life.
Gastronomic events - tastings of campaign delicacies, cheeses, wines and liquors.
The silk workshops in San Leuchio are a unique cultural tradition that appeals to all ages.
Spring (March-May)
Air temperature: +15... +22°C
Water temperature: +15... +17°C
Spring is a comfortable period for walking, visiting the palace and the old city. The weather is usually mild and sunny, there are not too many tourists.
Summer (June - August)
Air temperature: +25... +33°C
Water temperature: +24... +27° C.
Features: Summer is the peak tourist season. Great for beach holidays on the coast of Campania and active visits to cultural events, concerts and festivals.
Autumn (September-November)
Air temperature: +18... +25° C.
Water temperature: +20°C (start of the season)
Features: Autumn is a comfortable period for excursion tourism, walks around the old town and the palace park. Fewer tourists, picturesque landscapes.
Winter (December to February)
Air temperature: +7... +15° C.
Water temperature: +14... +16°C
Features: Winter is mild but cool. Suitable for cultural and historical tourism, visiting museums, palace and Casertavecchia.
Language of communication
The main language is Italian.
Tourist places, hotels and restaurants often understand English, sometimes French and German.
For comfortable communication, it is useful to know the basic phrases in Italian: greetings, gratitude, questions about the way and price.
Traditions and customs
Greetings and communication
Politeness is important: greeted with a handshake or a slight nod of the head.
When entering a store, restaurant or house, it is customary to say "Buongiorno" (Good afternoon) or "Buonasera" (Good evening).
Gratitude: "Grazie," the answer is "Prego."
Food and behavior in cafes/restaurants
Usually Italians have dinner late, starting from 19:30-20:00.
It is not customary to leave a large tip: 5-10% is enough, especially if the service is included in the bill.
Clothing and religious places
When visiting churches and cathedrals, it is advisable to cover shoulders and knees.
In old city quarters and historic buildings, neat clothes are welcome.
Public behaviour
Do not shout, respect the personal space of others.
On the streets, in transport and public places, the order and rules of the road are observed.
Laws and regulations that should be followed
Documents: Always carry your passport or ID card.
Alcohol and Smoking: The sale of alcohol is allowed from the age of 18; smoking is prohibited in closed public places, transport and some areas of the city.
Traffic: Pedestrians have an advantage on pedestrian crossings; observe parking rules, penalties for violation are strict.
Garbage and recycling: Italy is strictly about sorting garbage - paper, plastic, glass.
Photography: In museums and churches, it is often forbidden to use flash or take photos without permission.
Greetings and goodbyes
Ciao (Chow) - Hello / Bye (informally)
Buongiorno (Biongiorno) - Good afternoon
Buonasera (Bionasera) - Good evening
Arrivederci (Arrivederci) - Goodbye
A presto (and presto) - See you soon
Example of dialogue:
You: Buongiorno!
Local: Buongiorno, come sta? (Good afternoon, how are you?)
You: Bene, grazie! (Okay, thank you!)
Hotel and accommodation
Ho una prenotazione (o una prenotazione) - I have a reservation.
Quanto costa? - How much is it?
Vorrei una camera - I'd like a number
Con colazione (con colazione) - With breakfast
Dove si trova . . . where is it?
Example of dialogue:
You: Vorrei una camera per due notti, per favore. (I would like a room for two nights, please.)
Reception: Certamente, ecco la chiave. (Of course, here's the key.)
Restaurant and café
Il menù, per favore (or menu, per favore) - Menu, please
Vorrei ordinare ... (vorrei ordinary ...) - I'd like to order...
Un bicchiere d'acqua (un bikchiere daqua) - A glass of water
Il conto, per favore (or conto, per favore)
È delizioso (e delizioso) - It's delicious
Example of dialogue:
You: Vorrei una pizza margherita e un bicchiere di vino. (I would like a margarita pizza and a glass of wine.)
Waiter: Subito! (Right away!)
Purchases and markets
Quanto costa? - How much is it?
Posso pagare con la carta? - Can I pay with a card?
Vorrei questo - I'd like that
È troppo caro (e troppo caro) - It's too expensive
Mi fa uno sconto? - Can I get a discount?
Example of dialogue
You: Vorrei questo souvenir, mi fa uno sconto? (I would like this souvenir, can I get a discount?)
Seller: Va bene, 10% di sconto. (Okay, 10% off.)
Navigation and transport
Dov'è la stazione? - Where's the station?
A che ora parte il treno? - What time does the train leave?
"Vorrei un biglietto per..." (Vorrei unbiletto) - I would like a ticket to...
Quanto tempo ci vuole? - How long will it take?
A destra / A sinistra (a destra / a synistra) - Right / Left
Example of dialogue:
Dov'è la fermata dell'autobus per il centro? (Where is the bus stop to the center?)
Local: È laggiù, vicino alla piazza. (Near the square.)
Medicine and assistance
Ho bisogno di un dottore - I need a doctor
Dove è l'ospedale? - Where's the hospital?
Chiamate un'ambulanza! - Call an ambulance!
Sto male - I'm sick
È urgente (e urgente) - It's urgent
Food and drink
Pasta and sauces – Campania makes pasta from hard wheat varieties, especially local varieties for handmade pasta.
The cheeses of the region are mozzarella di bufala (buffalo), ricotta and other soft cheeses.
Prosciutto and sausages are traditional Italian delicacies, perfect for a gastronomic gift.
Olive oil is a high quality, cold pressed, characteristic of the Campaign.
Wine and liqueurs are local wines (Aglianico, Falanghina) and liqueurs, such as limoncello.
Sweets are the traditional sweets of the region: pasta di fruit, almond biscuits and jams.
Tip: Many products can be purchased at specialty shops near the city center and at Casertavecchia markets.
Medicinal and natural remedies
Essential oils and herbs - lavender, rosemary, melissa, are often used for aromatherapy and skin care.
Herbal teas and tinctures – local fees help with colds, to relax or improve digestion.
Olive oil as a cosmetic is popular for skin and hair care.
Souvenirs and handicrafts
Ceramics - colorful painted plates, cups, handmade vases.
Textiles and silk products are particularly unique works related to the history of the San Leuchio silk factory.
Handmade wood products - jewelry, small furniture, kitchen utensils.
Magnets, postcards, figurines - with views of the Royal Palace, Casertavecchia and other attractions.
Tip: Casertavecchia and the surrounding villages are famous for craft shops where you can buy unique gifts that are not available in tourist shops.
General security
Caserta is considered a safe city for tourists, especially the central areas and tourist attractions.
As in any tourist destination, you should observe basic precautions: watch for personal belongings, especially in crowded places (markets, train station, bus stations).
In the evening, it is better to avoid poorly lit and deserted streets.
Pocket theft is less common, but attention will not hurt.
Documents required
Passport or ID card (for EU citizens) - must be carried with you.
Visa (if required for citizens of your country) – check the requirements before traveling.
Keep copies of documents separate from the originals in case of loss or theft.
Health insurance
It is recommended to have travel health insurance.
The policy should cover medical emergencies, hospitalization and transportation.
For EU citizens, an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) card is sufficient, but it is better to have travel insurance.
Emergency services phones
112 is a single European emergency number (police, fire service, ambulance).
118 - ambulance.
113 police.
115 Fire Department.
It is always a good idea to have the contacts of your embassy or consulate in Italy.
Mobile communications
The main operators of Italy: TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, Iliad.
Major cities and tourist areas have good 4G and Wi-Fi coverage, including free hotspots in hotels, cafes and some public places.
It is recommended to connect roaming or buy a local SIM card to always have communication and access to the Internet.
Term of stay of the tourist
EU citizens can stay in Italy for up to 90 days without a visa under the Schengen Agreement.
Citizens of other countries should specify the visa and the period of stay by their nationality.
If the period of stay is exceeded, fines or restrictions on re-entry may apply.
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