Picolo recommends · Hotel in Naples, Campania
San Francesco al Monte
Sleep in a converted monk's cell, then climb through terraced gardens to a pool that hangs over the whole bay of Naples.
Walk up through the terraced gardens on a summer afternoon and the city below goes quiet. At the top, the pool looks straight out over the rooftops to the sea and Vesuvius, with only the swifts for company.
The hotel fills an old monastery on the hillside under Vomero, and the rooms are the former cells of the friars. Thick walls, arches and long corridors keep the place cool and calm, a world away from the traffic down in the centre.
Picolo’s verdict
Why we chose San Francesco al Monte
We picked it because it is unlike anywhere else in Naples. You get history in the walls, gardens to wander and a pool with one of the best views in the city. Couples looking for peace between days of sightseeing will love the contrast.
Rooms are small and plain, true to their origins as cells, and there are steps everywhere. It is not a good fit for travellers with limited mobility or those who want to walk out into the old town, as you will need a taxi or funicular.
What you get
- Pool overlooking the bay
- Terraced gardens
- Rooms in the old monks' cells
- Views to Vesuvius
- Taxi or funicular to the centre
A day at San Francesco al Monte
- Morning
- A slow walk through the gardens before breakfast.
- Midday
- Up to Vomero for Castel Sant'Elmo and the Certosa di San Martino.
- Afternoon
- Back for a swim with the bay spread out below.
- Evening
- A taxi down to the old town for pizza, and a quiet return.
Location
Below Vomero, Naples, Italy
Open in MapsQuestions about San Francesco al Monte
Is San Francesco al Monte really a monastery?
Yes. The hotel is set in what was once a monastery under Vomero, and the guest rooms are the old monks' cells.
Does San Francesco al Monte have a pool?
Yes. There is a pool high in the terraced gardens with a view across the bay of Naples.
Is San Francesco al Monte suitable for guests with limited mobility?
It can be difficult. The building has many stairs and level changes, so check with the hotel about access before you book.
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Updated 6 Nov 2026All articles
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